Classic Alternative - 2018: Year End Spectacular

Presenting Classic Alternative - 2018: Year End Spectacular

A Special Edition of the program that looks back upon the year 2018 and remembers Classic Alternative music, music news, anniversaries, and more.

Thanks for listening to the program and have a Happy New Year!

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

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Peter Hook talks rare memorabilia, potential for reuniting with New Order + more

As previously reported, Peter Hook will be auctioning off pieces of from his personal Joy Division, New Order, and Factory collection in March. The Peter Hook Signature Collection includes equipment (guitars, pedals), clothing, instruments, rare vinyl, unique artwork and original posters, and even Hook's ticket stub from the legendary 1976 Sex Pistols' Free Trade Hall gig (considered one of the world's most important and influential concerts ever). The event will be held through Omega Auctions on March 2nd and proceeds benefit the suicide prevention charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) as well as an epilepsy charity.

In promotion of the auction, Rolling Stone published an excellent feature on Hook -- he discussed various pieces of his rare memorabilia, the potential of reuniting with New Order, what he's learned from performing Joy Division albums live, and more.

Hooky revealed that though his incredible collection includes "wonderful moments to savor," his recent (but now resolved) legal disputes with ex-New Order bandmates soured him and motivated him to part with these rare pieces:

"While the cases were going on, it was the most depressing thing I’ve ever been through in my life. I remember [the Smiths’] Andy Rourke telling me once that the case against Morrissey and Marr was the worst thing that ever happened to him, and I thought he was being dramatic. Bloody hell, when it happens to you, you realize how awful it is and really it’s only been playing the music and remembering how good we were and how good we are, if you like, as a group, that got me through it. I played every LP as the court cases were going on, and it really was a help. Even doing the book was quite cathartic, to realize what great times we had in New Order.

It’s like any relationship, isn’t it? You end up divorcing and everything looks terrible and you sit there one drunken night going over the romance, shall we say, and you realize how great it was. It was just that those things tend to crumble at the end of the day.

It’s just quite odd really when you actually sit there thinking, 'What the hell are you doing keeping hold of Joy Division?’ I realized that the relationship between us all was never gonna happen, and I was holding on to something for the wrong reason.

It [the lawsuit] made me feel a little bit detached from Joy Division in a way, and it also made me realize that the most important thing for me was to have the music and to have the fans and to be honest, we’re very happy together."

As for the ticket stub to that legendary Free Trade Hall gig:

"The Sex Pistols ticket is really odd because it’s in such good condition. I must have put it away quite carefully. It was a great night, don’t get me wrong, but I never thought that it would be so significant as that Sex Pistols appearance was. I didn’t sit there and think, “God, this is going to be worth a few quid in 40 years."

Hooky was asked if he could ever fathom reuniting or performing with his ex-bandmates, for instance in the event they are ever inducted into the Hall of Fame. Hooky says he's doubtful, yet hopeful:

"Both New Order and Joy Division should be in every hall of fame. Maybe everyone’s waiting until we become friendly [laughs] and then we’ll be hit with a massive rush. But it would be very difficult, wouldn’t it? If someone tried to induct you, and they go, “Oh, my God. They’ll only end up fighting backstage.” [Laughs]. It puts people in an unfortunate position, doesn’t it?

Hey, listen, the world is a wonderful place. It’s only hope that keeps us all going through every day. So yeah, it’s something that you hope will happen. It’d be wonderful and in many ways, the fact that you didn’t reconcile is one of the greatest sadnesses because of how much you’ve shared and how much you still share.

Read the full fascinating interview with Peter Hook here.

The Peter Hook Signature Collection will be auctioned off March 2nd. Prior to the auction (late February) an exhibit featuring all the pieces in the collection will be on display at Omega Auctions HQ in Newton-Le-Willows. An online catalog showcasing the collection will be available to view through Omega Auctions on January 25th. Physical copies of the catalog are available to purchase now here.

Peter Hook continues to tour the world with The Light performing Joy Division and New Order albums in full.  Hook's latest tour features a full performance of Technique and Republic with an opening set of Joy Division classics. The tour hits North America next autumn and tickets are on sale now. View the tour itinerary below and grab tickets to the Detroit show, which takes place October 31st at St. Andrew's Hall here.

Meanwhile New Order plan to release a Movement boxset in April plus reissue four iconic New Order singles in March. Details on that are posted here.

Peter Hook - Technique/Republic tour

Oct 24 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
Oct 25 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Oct 26 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Oct 28 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Oct 29 -- Montreal, QC @ Theatre Fairmount
Oct 31 -- Detroit, MI @ St Andrew's Hall
Nov 01 -- Chicago, IL @ Metro
Nov 02 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
Nov 04 -- Vancouver, BC @ Venue
Nov 05 -- Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre
Nov 07 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Nov 08 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
Nov 09 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern
Nov 11 -- Austin, TX @ Emo's
Nov 12 -- Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse

Published December 27th, 2018

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Morrissey says goodbye to 2018

Morrissey has paid tribute to several artists/celebrities that died in 2018 on his website. The posting titled And Goodbye To 2018 features pictures of Pete Shelley, Burt Reynolds, Fenella Fielding, and more. View the posting here.

(pictured in order: Peter Wyngarde, Liz Fraser, Ken Dodd, Pete Shelley, Fenella Fielding, and Burt Reynolds)

Morrissey returns in 2019 with his covers record California Son. The release date is still to be announced, but is expected in early 2019.

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Classic Alternative - Episode #86: Dielectric Catastrophe

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #86: Dielectric Catastrophe

This week's show includes music from Wire, Screaming Trees, David Bowie, Hum, The Clash, The Stranglers, James, New Order, Tears For Fears, 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 week

New Order releasing Movement Definitive Edition boxset + reissuing 12" singles
Joy To The Wham! - Last Christmas Love Tore Us Apart
Morrissey talks "joyful" tour + watch live performance
Hum reissue Downward Is Heavenward with bonus material

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Joy To The Wham! "Last Christmas Love Tore Us Apart"

S. Alexander Reed, the author of Assimilate: A Critical History of Industrial Music has created your new favorite Christmas song.

"Last Christmas Love Tore Us Apart" is a clever amalgamation of lyrics from iconic Joy Division classics and Wham!'s ubiquitous yuletide chart topper/guilty pleasure. You will chuckle. You might groan. And you're probably going to want to play this over and over, rock out and sing right along...

Stream Joy To The Wham!'s "Last Christmas Love Tore Us Apart" below and grab a copy (name your own price download) through Bandcamp.

Unknown Pleasure, indeed.



Published December 23rd, 2018

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New Order releasing 'Movement Definitive Edition' boxset + reissuing 12" singles

New Order have announced the release of a massive box set celebrating their debut album Movement on April 5th. The Movement Definitive Edition box set is a 1LP/2CD/1DVD set that comes packaged in a lift off lid and features a ton of swoonworthy material, much of it previously unreleased.

The box contains: a copy of Movement on vinyl featuring the original Peter Saville-designed sleeve, a copy of Movement on CD, a bonus CD with previously unreleased tracks including the Western Works and Cargo demos, rehearsal versions, and more; a DVD collecting live concert recordings from 1980/81 along with their Granada TV and BBC appearances, plus a hard back book. The boxset will be released April 5th.

The news doesn't stop there:

New Order will individually reissue four of their non-album 12" singles from the Movement era in March:

1. Ceremony version 1 (original version)
2. Ceremony version 2 (re-recorded version)
3. Everythings Gone Green
4. Temptation

All of the singles have been remastered and pressed on heavyweight vinyl. Both Ceremony singles will be released March 8th; Everything's Gone Green follows on March 15th (with the correct tracklisting for "Mesh" and "Cries And Whispers"!); and Temptation wraps up the series on March 23rd.

Movement Definitive Edition (box set) and the 12" singles are available to pre-order now -- each release is available to pre-order individually or as bundle -- Movement Definitive Edition bundle -- which features the box set + all four 12" singles. Check out all the options here.

View the tracklisting for Movement Definitive Edition and all four 12" singles below.

Today's announcement is FANTASTIC news for New Order fans because this is likely the first in a series of Definitive Editions for (all of? some of?) their iconic albums. Last year Peter Hook revealed he was very interested in releasing collectible New Order box sets for fans:

"My ambition has always been to get all the collectible stuff together in one place, so that you just go to this place and see everything to do with New Order; the album sleeves, the flyers, the tickets, the t-shirts and everything. I'm still holding onto that ambition.

Warners are doing a collector's series of the albums, a box set that will be more like that. I got a wonderful present for my 60th birthday which was Led Zeppelin II, complete with all the flyers and gig posters, a vinyl edition - it was wonderfully done, and I took it and showed it to Warner Bros. and said, "This is how our next reissue should be." You know, really give the fans something to treasure. We're working towards that aim, thank God."

Hooky and New Order settled their legal differences last year, paving the way for a whole lot of excitement for New Order fans. Stay tuned!

Movement - original album

1. Dreams Never End
2. Truth
3. Senses
4. Chosen Time
5. ICB
6. The Him
7. Doubts Even Here
8. Denial

Bonus CD (previously unreleased tracks)

01. Dreams Never End (Western Works Demo)
02. Homage (Western Works Demo)
03. Ceremony (Western Works Demo)
04. Truth (Western Works Demo)
05. Are You Ready For This? (Western Works Demo)
06. The Him (Cargo Demo)
07. Senses (Cargo Demo)
08. Truth (Cargo Demo)
09. Dreams Never End (Cargo Demo)
10. Mesh (Cargo Demo)
11. ICB (Cargo Demo)
12. Procession (Cargo Demo)
13. Cries And Whispers (Cargo Demo)
14. Doubts Even Here (Instrumental) (Cargo Demo)
15. Ceremony (1st Mix - Ceremony Sessions)
16. Temptation (Alternative 7")
17. Procession (Rehearsal Recording)
18. Chosen Time (Rehearsal Recording)

Movement DVD

Live Shows

Hurrah’s, NY 1980 (recorded 9/27/80)

In A Lonely Place
Procession
Dreams Never End
Mesh
Truth
Cries & Whispers
Denial
Ceremony

Peppermint Lounge, NY 1981

In A Lonely Place
Dreams Never End
Chosen Time
ICB
Senses
Denial
Everything’s Gone Green
Hurt – instrumental
Temptation

TV Sessions

Granada Studios 1981

Doubts Even Here
The Him
Procession
Senses
Denial

BBC Riverside 1982

Temptation
Chosen Time
Procession
Hurt – instrumental
Senses
Denial
In A Lonely Place

Extras

Ceremony CoManCHE Student Union 1981
In A Lonely Place Toronto 1981
Temptation Soul Kitchen, Newcastle 1982
Hurt Le Palace, Paris 1982
Procession Le Palace, Paris 1982
Chosen Time Pennies 1982
Truth The Haçienda 1983
ICB Minneapolis 1983

12" singles and cover art for each release

Ceremony (Version 1) 12"

Side 1 - Ceremony (Version 1)
Side 2 - In A Lonely Place

Ceremony (Version 2) 12"

Side 1 - Ceremony (Version 2)
Side 2 - In A Lonely Place

Everythings Gone Green 12"

Side 1 - Everythings Gone Green
Side 2 - Cries And Whispers
Side 2 - Mesh

Temptation 12"

Side 1 - Temptation
Side 2 - Hurt

Published December 19th, 2018

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Morrissey thanks fans for "joyful" tour + watch live performance

Morrissey wrapped up his short tour of North America and South America on December 15th and now he's taken the time to express his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to fans attending the shows. In a new post titled The Human Voice Is The Soul, Moz reveals it was a "joyful" experience to perform for fans that "sang like an orchestra - every song an anthem, but this time infused with deeper meaning."

Moz took a brief shot at the press, but overall the post was filled with love and thanks for his "incredible" shows and the privilege of being able to still perform to so many loving fans of all ages.

Read his posting in full below, plus enjoy his two song performance that aired recently on Argentina's Fox Sports:



"I am lost to know how to express my thanks for this recent tour.

Joyful is not a word that trips easily off my tongue, but joyful it was. There seemed to me to be an even deeper emotional response, and a more powerful projection everywhere of goodwill - more lungful and younger crowds than ever before. Something has happened. What is it?

Every night the crowds sang like an orchestra - every song an anthem, but this time infused with deeper meaning. Perhaps it is partly because of the press and their childish smear campaigns - which we all, not just I, must endure. Perhaps it’s because only songs tell us who we really are, after all?
I wasn’t attacked or punched at San Diego - the press depress.

In fact, I had never felt so liberated in my life.

It is impossible to point to the best nights because they were all so incredible, but our two concerts in Chile and our concert in Peru reminded me of my privileged position to be on stage; it is life, yes, but with all the crap bits left out - for once. Tropicalia, San Diego, Sao Paulo and Mexico City were also particularly breath-taking.

I express my heartfelt thanks to all of you who came along.

backing into the future,

Morrissey"

Published December 17th, 2018

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Hum reissuing 'Downward Is Heavenward' with bonus material

As previously reported Hum announced rough plans to reissue their final album Downward Is Heavenward on vinyl a few months ago. Matt Talbot has now revealed more details on the release which will which be released/shipped out this week.

The double gatefold vinyl album was cut from the original analog masters and pressed on 180 gm vinyl. It includes different artwork (mostly similar to the original, but minus the UPC and yellow graphics have been replaced with white), but the big news is the bonus material: three b-sides "Puppets," "Aphids," and "Boy With A Stick." These songs have been fan favorites and will now finally be available! Also: each copy of the record comes with a card signed by Talbot which explains the mastering process for each song. Additionally, there is an option to purchase a limited edition 12" x 12" poster designed by Jay Ryan -- likely the design Ryan posted on Instagram a couple of days ago. Vinyl record is 35 dollars; record with poster is 50 dollars.

Pre-orders officially open this Wednesday, December 19th, however Talbot also stated on Facebook that he "might" take a few pre-orders tomorrow (December 18th) in the evening. The pre-order link is not yet available but will be posted over at Earth Analog Records shortly. Head there now to check out other items.

UPDATE (12/20/18): The release has been delayed until Friday, but Talbot says that there won't be any issues obtaining a copy:

"I will start selling at Earth Analog Records tomorrow (friday) mid-morning cst. I'll try and post more details tonight. (Kinda fried right now from work and have a long day ahead of me.) Don't worry. Everyone who wants one will eventually get one. And if I run out, I'll get in touch with Sony and license the right to press another pile."

UPDATE (12/23/18): Pre-order links are active, but in "coming soon" status.

As for new Hum material, Talbot confirms he's still finishing up work on some new songs which will be out next year. He's also said that he may have enough for TWO albums!





Published December 17th, 2018

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Classic Alternative - Episode #85: Umbrage (aka Double Agent)

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #85: Umbrage (aka Double Agent)

This week's show includes music from Pixies, Lush, The Fall, Talking Heads, Oasis, Midge Ure, Cocteau Twins, Fad Gadget, David Bowie, The Boo Radleys and more.

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


Music news stories from the week

Gang Of Four announce North American tour; play Detroit
Robert Smith confirms new music from The Cure in progress
Ian Brown premieres "Black Roses"
Johnny Marr + Matt Johnson release "Summer In The City"
Peter Murphy kicked out of his own show
David Sylvian announces vinyl reissues
Iggy Pop creates 'Punk' series
Hall of Fame inductees: The Cure, Roxy Music + Radiohead

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Gang Of Four announce North American tour

Gang Of Four return with a new record title Happy Now on March 1st and they're coming to North America next year in support of the album. The tour brings them to El Club in Detroit on February 16th. Tickets for the tour are on sale now.

Pre-order Happy Now through Gang Of Four's Pledge Music campaign.

Gang Of Four - North American tour

Feb 04 -- Tustin, CA @ Marty's On Newport
Feb 05 -- San Diego, CA @ Casbah
Feb 06 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy Theatre
Feb 08 -- Fresno, CA @ Strummer's
Feb 09 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Chapel
Feb 11 -- Denver, CO @ Globe Hall
Feb 12 -- Omaha, NE @ Slowdown/Front Room
Feb 13 -- Evanston, IL @ S.P.A.C.E.
Feb 14 -- Milwaukee, WI @ Shank Hall
Feb 16 -- Detroit, MI @ El Club
Feb 17 -- Pittsburgh, PA @ Club Cafe
Feb 19 -- Somerville, MA @ Cuisine En Locale
Feb 20 -- Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom
Feb 21 -- Washington, DC @ U Street Music Hall
Feb 22 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
Feb 23 -- Asbury Park, NJ @ Asbury Lanes
Feb 24 -- Woodstock, NY @ Colony
Feb 25 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade NYC

Published December 16th, 2018

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Robert Smith confirms new LP in the works

Robert Smith has once again revealed that new music from The Cure is on the way. He confirmed to SiriusXM in an interview yesterday that the band will be finishing up work on a new album soon:

"...because of the Meltdown thing I've seen all these new bands, listened to so many bands...it's kind of inspired me to do something now. So yes, we're going in (the studio) in about six weeks' time to finish up what will be our first album in over a decade. So it's very exciting times for us."

Earlier this year Smith did a lot of press for The Cure's two big shows (Meltdown, which he curated, and the Hyde Park show) and bubbled over with enthusiasm for creating new music, revealing how inspired he was to get back at it creatively after listening to so much new music. He also told BBC 6 Music back in April that it's pretty much now or never time for The Cure to make new music:

"I listen to a vast amount of different types of music so I thought to myself what I should do is listen to newer bands, listen to more new music more than I have probably in the last six years. It's kind of acted as a catalyst to me, I've suddenly fallen in love with the idea of writing new songs, it's really had a really good effect on me...it's reinvigorated my sense of creativity, I feel like I want to join in. I want to do something new. So yeah, I hope it works. I'd be happy if it does, but if it the demos aren't very good then it doesn't matter."

"I sort of wanted to leave space (to go in the studio), because I had a feeling like if we didn't do something new this year we'd never do it again, because the 40th anniversary of the first album is in 2019. I thought if we don't have something out new that year, that's it, I don't think The Cure will ever have another album. So I thought I better leave some time to do some writing if we want to go into the studio."

Robert Smith is notorious for talking big about new projects, so take all of this with a grain of salt. On the other hand, The Cure have already confirmed multiple festival headline gigs overseas and that compounded with their Rock Hall nomination (which will likely bring them to North America) makes it a reasonable assumption that a record, or at least something new will get released. Stay tuned.



Published December 14th, 2018

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Ian Brown premieres "Black Roses"

Ian Brown returns with his new solo album Ripples on February 1st. He premiered the first single "First World Problems" in October and now he's unleashed another track from the record. "Black Roses" is his short and sweet indie rock take on the reggae classic (Barrington Levy). Check it out below:

Ripples features 10 songs and is available to pre-order here.





Published December 14th, 2018

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Johnny Marr + Matt Johnson release "Summer In The City"

On November 11th Johnny Marr and Matt Johnson performed together onstage for the first time in over 20 years and rocked out a cover of Lovin' Spoonful's "Summer In The City." Today Marr revealed that prior to the show at the Roundhouse that night he and Johnson also recorded a version of the cover during the soundcheck. Marr premiered the soundcheck version of the cover which is available as a digital single. Stream below.

Meanwhile Marr has also announced he's releasing the full audio from his London show as a live physical album. Comet Tripper - Live At The Roundhouse arrives in January/February and is available to pre-order on deluxe triple colored vinyl, deluxe double CD, and on 3LP/2CD. Head here to check out the pre-order options.



Published December 14th, 2018

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Peter Murphy kicked out of his own show and arrested in Sweden

High drama at Peter Murphy's show in Stockholm last night: According to fan reports, Murphy was performing his set without incident until he became annoyed with feedback in his earpiece and stormed off the stage for a period of time. After returning he allegedly began throwing bottles and other objects at the crowd which resulted in at least one fan being hospitalized. Murphy was hauled off stage by security and thrown out of the venue where he was restrained and eventually arrested by police. Swedish authorities have confirmed that they are filing assault charges against Murphy.

So far Murphy nor David J (who has been playing bass on tour) has commented on the matter.

Read more about last night's debacle here and here.

Murphy and David J are scheduled to return to North America in January for the 40 Years of Bauhaus Ruby Celebration followed by Murphy's two week solo residency at The Chapel in San Francisco.

Peter Murphy hade en tuff kväll igår, först blev han skitsur för folk köpte öl när de spelade, sen la mixerbordet av i slutet av giget, därefter blev han utslängd från spelstället pic.twitter.com/xhMXIPbGdk

— peter alzén (@peckapunk) December 13, 2018

Peter Murphy - Ruby Celebration Tour

Jan 16 –- Anaheim CA @ City National Grove of Anaheim
Jan 18 -- Portland OR @ Roseland Theatre
Jan 19 –- Vancouver BC @ Vogue Theatre
Jan 20 –- Seattle WA @ The Neptune
Jan 22 –- Salt Lake City UT – Venue TBA
Jan 24 –- San Diego CA @ The Observatory North Park
Jan 25 –- Phoenix AZ @ The Van Buren
Jan 26 –- Albuquerque NM @ Sunshine Theater
Jan 27 –- Oklahoma City OK @ Tower Theatre
Jan 28 –- Kansas City MO @ The Truman
Jan 30 –- Dallas TX @ Granada Theater
Jan 31 –- Austin TX @ Paramount Theater
Feb 01 -– San Antonio TX @ Paper Tiger
Feb 02 -– Houston TX @ White Oak Music Hall
Feb 04 -– New Orleans LA @ Civic Theatre
Feb 06 -– Miami FL @ The Ground at Club Space
Feb 07 -– Orlando FL @ Plaza Live
Feb 08 -– Atlanta GA @ The Masquerade
Feb 09 -– Carrboro NC @ Cats Cradle
Feb 11 -– Baltimore MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
Feb 12 -– Philadelphia PA @ Union Transfer
Feb 14 -– New York NY @ Terminal 5
Feb 15 -– Worcester MA @ The Palladium
Feb 16 -– Montreal QC @ Corona Theatre
Feb 17 -– Toronto ON @ Phoenix Theatre
Feb 19 -– Detroit MI @ St Andrews Hall
Feb 21 -– Columbus OH @ Columbus Athenaeum
Feb 22 -– Chicago IL @ Rockefeller Chapel
Feb 26 -– Denver CO @ Oriental Theater
Feb 28 -– Los Angeles CA @ The Novo DTLA

Peter Murphy - The Chapel Residency March 2019

Mar 05 -- Should The World Fail To Fall Apart
Mar 08 -- Love Hysteria 8pm / Love Hysteria 11pm
Mar 09 -- Deep
Mar 10 -- Deep
Mar 11 -- Deep
Mar 14 -- Deep / Love Hysteria encore
Mar 15 -- Cascade 8pm / Holy Smoke 11pm
Mar 18 -- Stripped
Mar 19 -- Dust 7pm / Ninth 10 pm
Mar 21 -- Mr. Moonlight
Mar 22 -- Mr. Moonlight
Mar 23 -- Mr. Moonlight

Published December 13th, 2018

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The Cure, Roxy Music + Radiohead nominated to Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

The Cure, Roxy Music, and Radiohead are among the Class of 2019 inductees for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Cure have been eligible for nomination since 2004 and have been nominated twice; Roxy Music have been eligible since 1997 and were nominated once; Radiohead became eligible in 2017 and were nominated twice. Kraftwerk, Devo, and MC5 were among this year's nominees that were not selected by the Rock Hall's induction committee.

The 2019 induction ceremony takes place March 29th in Brooklyn.

The members of The Cure that are included in the induction: Robert Smith, Lol Tolhurst, Porl Thompson, Perry Bamonte, Michael Dempsey, Simon Gallup, Boris Williams, Jason Cooper, and Roger O’Donnell.

Roxy Music members that are included in the induction: Bryan Ferry, Brian Eno, Andy Mackay, Phil Manzanera, Eddie Jobson, Paul Thompson, and John Gustafson.

@rockhall 2019 induction pic.twitter.com/AqTIzAFIgN

— Lol Tolhurst (@LolTolhurst) December 13, 2018

"We are delighted to accept this prestigious award on behalf of everyone who has been involved in the world of Roxy Music - musicians, engineers, producers, designers and numerous people behind the scenes… and of course our loyal fans." #RockHall2019 pic.twitter.com/QaQuc88mqR

— Bryan Ferry (@bryanferry) December 13, 2018

Published December 13th, 2018
Updated December 14th, 2018

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David Sylvian announces vinyl reissues

David Sylvian continues to reissue his magnificent and timeless back catalog on vinyl. Today he announced the reissue of four albums spanning the years 1984 though 1987 which will arrive on vinyl February 22nd.

Sylvian's debut solo album from 1984 Brilliant Trees (1LP), 1985's previously cassette-only collection Alchemy - An Index Of Possibilities (2LP), 1986's Gone To Earth (2LP), and 1987's Secrets Of The Beehive (1LP) have all been pressed on 180 gm vinyl for the first time ever. All of the albums include a download card and three of the releases include new artwork: Alchemy - An Index Of Possibilities includes new artwork and rare photographs; Gone To Earth includes brand new artwork and rare photographs; and Secrets Of The Beehive features new artwork based on Nigel Grierson's original photographs. 

So far Sylvian hasn't posted a pre-order link through his store, but all four releases are currently available to pre-order over at Rough Trade.



Published December 12th, 2018

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Iggy Pop creates new TV doc 'Punk'

Iggy Pop has created a new television documentary on punk music. Punk explores the history of the genre and includes legends such as John Lydon, Wayne Kramer, Debbie Harry, Marky Ramone, Jello Biafra and more. More details (and a trailer) for the four episode series will be released in the coming weeks.

According to NME, the first episode of Punk is set to debut on Epix in the U.S. on March 11th.

Published December 12th, 2018

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Classic Alternative - Episode #84: Jaws Of Defeat

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #84: Jaws Of Defeat

This week's show includes music from Buzzcocks, Sleeper, Pixies, Joy Division, Peter Murphy, The Verve, Kitchens Of Distinction, The Creatures, David Bowie, The Stooges and more.

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


Music news stories from the week
Pete Shelley, R.I.P.
New Order return to U.S. + Bernard Sumner pays tribute to Pete Shelley
Front Line Assembly announce new LP Wake Up The Coma; cover Falco
Swervedriver issue more music from Future Ruins
The Chills announce North American tour; play Detroit
Sleeper issue first new single in 21 years
Morrissey details new covers record California Son
Spiritualized tour North America; play Detroit area
Alain Whyte announces EP; covers Morrissey

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New Order return to North America for Miami Beach show

New Order return to North America in January. The band announced a show at Fillmore Miami Beach on January 12th. Tickets go on sale this Friday, December 14th with the pre-sale kickoff on December 13th. Head here for more details. The Miami Beach show appears to be a one-off show, but you never know, so stay tuned.

Meanwhile Bernard Sumner has issued a statement on the passing of the legendary Pete Shelley:

"I was deeply sorry to hear about Pete passing away, I always thought he was a great songwriter and the Buzzcocks both helped and inspired us in the early days of Joy Division. The first punk record I ever bought was ‘Spiral Scratch’ Boredom was the track on it that summed up how every bummed out adolescent felt in early 1977.

Another song ‘You Say You Don’t Love Me’ was another - perhaps lesser known but it was a favourite of mine with a deeply touching melody and then in 1981 he came out with the catchy as hell perfect pop song ‘Homosapien’ - By coincidence we played it in our dressing room just before we went onstage at our last gig in Curitiba, Brazil.

A sad day but a brilliant and unforgettable life."



Published December 8th, 2018

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Front Line Assembly announce new LP 'Wake Up The Coma'

Front Line Assembly return with a new studio album titled Wake Up The Coma. The 12 track record promises to be an interesting listen -- it features a cover of Falco's classic "Rock Me Amadeus" plus includes guests Chris Connelly, Robert Görl, and Jimmy Urine. So far FLA haven't unleashed any music from the record, but they've revealed the cover art (posted above) and the tracklisting. Wake Up The Coma will be released on February 8th and is available to pre-order now through Metropolis Records on CD and limited edition double vinyl, or order here through Bandcamp.

Front Line Assembly - Wake Up The Coma

01. Eye On You (ft. Robert Görl)
02. Arbeit
03. Rock Me Amadeus (ft. Jimmy Urine)
04. Tilt
05. Hatevol
06. Proximity
07. Living A Lie
08. Wake Up The Coma (ft. Nick Holmes)
09. Mesmerized
10. Negative Territory
11. Structures
12. Spitting Wind (ft. Chris Connelly)

Published December 8th, 2018

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Swervedriver issue more music from 'Future Ruins'

Swervedriver debuted another song from their forthcoming album Future Ruins. "The Lonely Crowd Fades In The Air" is the latest track to be issued from the band's highly anticipated 6th studio album, which is set for a January 25th release. Watch the official video for the song below along with the previously issued songs "Mary Winter" and "Drone Lover." Pre-order Future Ruins here.







Published December 8th, 2018

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Pete Shelley, R.I.P.

Gutting and heartbreaking news: The legendary Pete Shelley, co-founder of Buzzcocks died earlier today (December 6th) at the age of 63 from a suspected heart attack. The tragic news was confirmed by Buzzcocks and their manager on social media.

Buzzcocks formed in 1976 and went on to play Sex Pistols' seminal Lesser Free Trade Hall show in Manchester later that year. The next year they released their iconic debut EP Spiral Scratch -- the EP became legendary not just for the incredible music, but also for the fact that Buzzcocks released the EP on their own. The DIY nature of the band was a massive influence on countless aspiring musicians (not the least of which were Joy Division and The Smiths), proving that you really could pick up an instrument, play shows, record music and be successful on your own without the financial backing of a label.

Shelley of course was always at the helm, leading Buzzcocks with his brilliant songwriting and creativity. Buzzcocks had the DIY ethic, but also importantly they also had SONGS -- catchy, energetic, memorable, and with interesting and thought-provoking themes. It's hard to imagine where music would be today without Buzzcocks and Pete Shelley blazing the way. And not only did Shelley help shape the world of alternative/punk/post-punk music with Buzzcocks, but later in the 80s he went on to release several majestic solo dance-oriented records packed with club anthems that remain timeless.

Truly a genius.

R.I.P.

It's with great sadness that we confirm the death of Pete Shelley, one of the UK's most influential and prolific songwriters and co-founder of the seminal original punk band Buzzcocks.

— Buzzcocks (@Buzzcocks) December 6, 2018

Pete Shelley - a true gent!

He helped us so much at the start of our career out of a sheer love for all things punk. Without Pete & the Buzzcocks I would probably still be working at the Docks. RIP mate. X

— Peter Hook (@peterhook) December 6, 2018

RIP Pete Shelley pic.twitter.com/QmJpkv1Y9S

— 1894 Group (@1894Group_MCFC) December 7, 2018

Published December 6th, 2018

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The Chills announce North American tour

The Chills are returning to North America for their first tour since 1996. The indie band will be touring in support of Snow Bound, which came out earlier this year. Tickets for the tour, including the Detroit area stop February 26th at Outer Limits Lounge go on sale this Friday, December 7th.

View the tour itinerary below.



The Chills - North American tour

Feb 19 -- Brooklyn, NY @ The Bell House
Feb 20 -- Boston, MA @ The Middle East
Feb 22 -- Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
Feb 23 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Kung Fu Necktie
Feb 24 -- Washington, DC @ The Black Cat
Feb 26 -- Hamtramck, MI @ Outer Limits Lounge
Feb 27 -- Chicago, IL @ The Empty Bottle
Feb 28 -- Minneapolis, MN @ The Turf Club
Mar 02 -- Costa Mesa, CA @ The Wayfarer
Mar 03 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo
Mar 05 -- Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst
Mar 06 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Chapel
Mar 08 -- Portland, OR @ Dante's
Mar 09 -- Seattle, WA @ The Sunset Tavern
Mar 11 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 12 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 13 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 14 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 15 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 16 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW
Mar 17 -- Austin, TX @ SXSW

Published December 6th, 2018

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Sleeper debut 1st new single in 21 years

Sleeper reunited earlier this year and now they've debuted their first new single in 21 years. "Look At You Now" was produced by Stephen Street and is the first single from the forthcoming album The Modern Age. The 10 track record is scheduled to be released on March 22nd and is available to pre-order through Pledge Music or Amazon.

Stream "Look At You Now" below:



Published December 5th, 2018

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Morrissey details 'California Son' covers record

Morrissey has revealed the tracklisting for his new record California Son. The album was produced by Joe Chiccarelli and features 12 cover songs originally recorded by Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Dionne Warwick, Carly Simon, and more. The official release date has not yet been announced but is expected out in early 2019. View the tracklisting below via Morrissey Central.

Meanwhile Morrissey's deluxe edition of Low In High School will be released this Friday, December 7th. The expanded edition features several covers including the studio version "Back On The Chain Gang" (Pretenders) and live versions of "Rose Garden" (Lynn Anderson), "Judy Is A Punk" (Ramones) and more.

Though Morrissey was known to deliver an incredible version of Suede's classic "The Insatiable Ones" years ago unfortunately he hasn't announced any plans to cover the track. Missed opportunity indeed.



Morrissey - California Son

Morning Starship (Jobriath)
Don't Interrupt The Sorrow (Joni Mitchell)
Only A Pawn In Their Game (Bob Dylan)
Suffer The Little Children (Buffy Sainte Marie)
Days Of Decision (Phil Ochs)
It's Over (Roy Orbison)
Wedding Bell Blues (Laura Nyro)
Loneliness Remembers What Happiness Forgets (Dionne Warwick)
Lady Willpower (Gary Puckett & The Union Gap)
When You Close Your Eyes (Carly Simon)
Lenny's Tune (Tim Hardin)
Some Say I Got Devil (Melanie)

Published December 5th, 2018

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Spiritualized announce North American tour; play Detroit area

Spiritualized released their spacy new album And Nothing Hurt earlier this year, now they've announced a North American tour in support of the record. The tour kicks off in the spring of 2019 and includes a Detroit area stop April 10th at the Royal Oak Music Theatre. Tickets for the tour go on sale this Friday, December 7th. Check out the tour itinerary below:



Spiritualized - North American tour

Mar 21 -- Knoxville, TN @ Big Ears Festival
Mar 23 -- Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
Mar 25 -- Austin, TX @ Emo's
Mar 26 -- Dallas, TX @ Canton Hall
Mar 29 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Troubador
Mar 30 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
Apr 01 -- Portland, OR @ McMenamin's Crystal Ballroom
Apr 02 -- Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
Apr 03 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theater
Apr 05 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
Apr 06 -- Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theater
Apr 08 -- St. Paul, MN @ Fitzgerald Theater
Apr 09 -- Chicago, IL @ Vic Theater
Apr 10 -- Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
Apr 12 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Apr 13 -- Montreal, QC @ Theatre Corona
Apr 14 -- Boston, MA @ The Wilbur
Apr 16 -- Washington, DC @ Lincoln Theater
Apr 17 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Apr 19 -- Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore

Published December 4th, 2018

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Alain Whyte announces EP ft acoustic Morrissey covers

Longtime Morrissey collaborator/songwriter Alain Whyte has announced the release of a solo EP titled The Experiment. Whyte announced through his new website and social media channels that he'll self-release a four song acoustic EP titled The Experiment in late December. The EP will include "The Experiment" along with covers of "First Of The Gang To Die" and "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" (both songs co-written by Whyte/Morrissey), and Todd Rundgren's "The Death Of Rock 'N' Roll." The release will be available to pre-order on black and limited edition white vinyl through Whyte's website starting December 10th.

Watch the newly issued video for "The Experiment" and view the tracklisting for the EP via Morrissey Solo below:



1. The Experiment (acoustic)
2. The Death of Rock-N-Roll (acoustic)
3. First Of The Gang To Die (acoustic)
4. We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful (acoustic)

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Classic Alternative - Episode #83: Sans

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #83: Sans

This week's show includes music from David Bowie, Oasis, The Jam, Joy Division, Suede, The Modern Lovers, Social Distortion, Killing Joke, Gary Numan, Echo & The Bunnymen, 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 week
The Cure unveil 2019 calendar + 40th anniversary merch
Al Jourgensen on Lard, Trent Reznor, titans of industrial and more
Bob Mould premieres new music + Sunshine Rock studio session
Third Man announces more Laughing Hyenas reissues
Liam Gallagher boxes up 'As You Were' for vinyl singles set

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The Cure unveil 2019 calendar and other 40th anniversary items

The Cure will continue to celebrate their 40th anniversary into 2019. The band just unveiled their 2019 calendar which features artwork from Three Imaginary Boys with lyrics featured on each month of the calendar. They've also unveiled several other 40th anniversary items including hoodies, bucket hats, totes, tees, patches and more. Head here to view and order.

Earlier this year Robert Smith revealed that he's considering some anniversary shows/events to mark the 30th anniversary of Disintegration. So far nothing in that regard has been announced but The Cure have confirmed several festival headline shows for next summer which are a part of the European music festival circuit. More shows/festival appearances will be announced in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile The Cure's Tim Pope-directed 40th anniversary documentary is still in the works with the release date still to be announced. Don't expect this anytime soon.

Published December 2nd, 2018

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Al Jourgensen resurrecting Lard; talks Trent Reznor and titans of industrial

In a new interview Al Jourgensen revealed he's planning on hitting the studio early next year to begin work on a new Ministry record. The record may turn out to be very interesting -- Jourgensen previously revealed to Billboard that he's patched things up with Paul Barker and may collaborate with him in the future, and now he's told Consequence Of Sound he's up for working with some other industrial legends.

Jourgensen said he respects and would love to work with Trent Reznor and Ian McKaye again, and while those open offers are out there and may not transpire, one collaboration that fans can expect: a Lard reunion. Uncle Al claims he's resurrecting his old project with Jello Biafra in 2019 revealing he's "dabbling in some side Revolting Cocks and Lard songs we have depending on people's schedules."

The collaborations get even crazier because Jourgensen just hit up Gary Numan too:

"My neighbor down the street is Gary Numan, so we may hook up together for some stuff. We just talked about that the other day."

Meanwhile Jourgensen had a lot of glowing things to say about Trent Reznor - though Nine Inch Nails were heavily influenced by Ministry, Jourgensen doesn't think Reznor ripped him off:

"You could see his influence from us, you could see his influence from a lot of different industrial bands, and that’s great, because what he does is that he takes things that he hears and he puts his own stamp on it, and makes it Nine Inch Nails and that’s basically the criterion for being a good artist."

Jourgensen was asked who he thinks the Big 4 bands of industrial music would be: He chose Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, and Skinny Puppy but "after that it gets kind of dicey" and isn't sure who the 4th band would be but considers KMFDM, Laibach, and Einsturzende Neubauten to be contenders.

Jourgensen also talked about turning 60, the 30th anniversary and making of The Land Of Rape And Honey, and revealed he wanted to do an industrial festival but promoters claim it won't be successful. Read the full interview with Uncle Al here.

Don't miss Ministry on the road in North America. Dates are posted below:

Ministry - North American tour

Dec 02 -- Toronto, ON @ Rebel
Dec 04 -- Rochester, NY @ Anthology
Dec 05 -- Washington, DC @ Fillmore
Dec 06 -- New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
Dec 07 -- New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
Dec 08 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
Dec 10 -- Asheville, NC @ Orange Peel
Dec 11 -- Memphis, TN @ New Daisy Theater
Dec 12 -- Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey
Dec 13 -- Houston, TX @ House of Blues Houston
Dec 14 -- San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theater
Dec 16 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee
Dec 18 -- San Diego, CA @ House of Blues San Diego
Dec 20 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda
Dec 21 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda

Published December 2nd, 2018

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