...hang the dj

...hang the dj is a music blog. Old school, shoegaze, psych, and darkwave are featured genres.

Legal disclaimer: This blog is my personal, independent website. It is not affiliated with Bell Media, nor does it represents the thoughts, opinions, or desires of Bell Media

...hang the dj

.......... *

Contact info

Send music submissions, press releases, or questions/concerns to: cristina [at] 89xradio.com or: hangthedjmag [at] gmail.com

Or just hit me up on Twitter @cristinarocks

...hang the dj

...hang the dj is a music blog. Old school, shoegaze, psych, and darkwave are featured genres.

Legal disclaimer: This blog is my personal, independent website. It is not affiliated with Bell Media, nor does it represents the thoughts, opinions, desires, etc of Bell Media

For music submissions, press releases, or questions/concerns:

hangthedjmag (at) gmail.com

Or hit me up on Twitter: @CristinaRocks

Blog Archive

About

Blogger news

Tune in to 89x for my radio broadcasts...

Listen to Time Warp on 89X - the long running classic alternative show airs Sunday mornings from 8am - 12pm ET. Listen on the radio (88.7) in Detroit, or stream it worldwide on the net. The Time Warp playlist archive is posted here.
Powered by Blogger.

Search This Blog

Friday, May 31, 2019


The legendary Roky Erickson, godfather of psychedelic rock, has reportedly died at the age of 71. Roky's brother Mikel Erickson confirmed the sad news but has not revealed the circumstances behind his brother's death.

Erickson rose to fame as the leader of the influential 13th Floor Elevators and continued to be a trailblazing figure in music over the years. He inspired alternative rock acts including The Jesus and Mary Chain, Echo & The Bunnymen, Primal Scream, Spacemen 3, R.E.M., The Black Angels, Brian Jonestown Massacre, and countless more. Many of these artists came together in 1990 to honor Erickson on the tribute album Where The Pyramid Meets The Eye.

R.I.P.





Published May 31st, 2019

Richard Ashcroft has been honored with a prestigious Ivor Novello songwriting award. The legendary songwriter and musician received the award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music at the 64th annual Ivor Novello Awards which were announced last week.

The institution recognized Ashcroft's "30 year career that has resulted in a highly distinguished body of work and cemented his place as one of the great British songwriters of all time."

The Ivor Novello Awards celebrate excellence in songwriting and screen composition across works released in the UK each calendar year and is considered one of the most distinguished and renowned awards in the UK.

View the full list of the 2019 Ivor Novello honorees here.

Published May 31st, 2019


As previously reported The Ocean Blue return with their new album Kings And Queens / Knaves And Thieves on June 21st. Earlier this month the band issued the first single from the record, and today they've followed it up with "All The Way Blue," which is another intriguing serving of gorgeous soaring dreampop. Stream both singles from the record below.

Kings And Queens / Knaves And Thieves is the band's seventh studio album and their first full length since 2013's Ultramarine. The album is available to pre-order on limited edition red vinyl, standard black vinyl, and CD. Head here to view all the options.





The Ocean Blue - U.S. tour

Jun 22 -- Lancaster, PA @ Tellus360
Jun 23 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade
Jun 27 -- Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
Jun 28 -- Portland, OR @ Holocene
Jul 26 -- Minneapolis, MN @ The Fine Line
Jul 27 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Valley Bar
Aug 23 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
Aug 24 -- Norfolk, VA @ NorVA
Oct 04 -- Washington, DC @ Union Stage
Oct 05 -- Vienna, VA @ Jammin Java
Nov 01 -- Ferndale, MI @ The Magic Bag
Nov 03 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
Nov 17 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
Dec 06 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall

Published May 31st, 2019

Thursday, May 30, 2019


The Cure's 30th anniversary Disintegration live stream took place today at the Sydney Opera House. As expected, the show was phenomenal - both musically and technically/stream-quality. Robert Smith began the show with some b-sides/demos/rarities recorded during the Disintegration sessions including "Delirious Night," "Noheart," "Fear Of Ghosts,"and Smith admitted to the crowd that the rarities/b-sides were great songs and it was sad they never played any of them (until now). After the set of rarities, The Cure took a five minute intermission then returned for the full album performance of Disintegration, followed by a three song encore.

If you missed the stream, watch the replay below while you can. Video below is forwarded to the beginning of the show.



Delirious Night
Fear Of Ghosts (b-side to "Lovesong")
Noheart (demo)
Esten (demo)
2 Late (b-side to "Lovesong")
Out Of Mind (b-side to "Lullaby" and "Fascination Street")
Babble (b-side to "Lullaby" and "Fascination Street")

[five minute intermission]

Plainsong
Pictures Of You
Closedown
Lovesong
Last Dance
Lullaby
Fascination Street
Prayers For Rain
The Same Deep Water As You
Disintegration
Homesick
Untitled

encore

Burn
Three Imaginary Boys
Pirate Ships

Wednesday, May 29, 2019


Morrissey has already recorded the follow up to his latest album California Son. The legend revealed in a new interview that he's recorded 12 new original songs which will likely see the day early next year. He told Fiona Dodwell in the exclusive Music-News interview:

"We have recorded a new studio album, but when it's released depends upon how much breathing space is allowed California Son. So, anything could happen... and anything usually does happen. It's an album of 12 original songs, so is, in its way, the follow-up to Low In High School. We recorded it in France once again, and it's fantastic. I would imagine a January release, but I don't mind if it's later."

In the same interview Morrissey also revealed that he's particularly pleased with how his cover of the Roy Orbison classic "It's Over" turned out:

"It's Over, I have no doubt whatsoever, is the best vocal of my entire life."

Read the full interview with Morrissey here.



Morrissey -- North American tour

Sep 05 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Sep 07 -- Queens, NY @ Forest Hills Stadium
Sep 09 -- Camden, NJ @ BB & T Pavilion
Sep 11 -- Kettering, OH @ Fraze Pavilion
Sep 13 -- Rochester Hills, MI @ Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Sep 14 -- Highland Park, IL @ Ravinia Festival
Sep 18 -- Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center
Sep 21 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall - Outside
Sep 26 -- Denver, CO @ The Mission Ballroom
Sep 28 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Saltair
Sep 30 -- Portland, OR @ Theatre Of The Clouds
Oct 01 -- Seattle, WA @ WAMU Theatre
Oct 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Oct 05 -- Irvine, CA @ Five Point Amphitheatre
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Pechanga Arena
Oct 10 -- Edmonton, AB @ Northern Alberta
Oct 11 -- Calgary, AB @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Oct 14 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 15 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 21 -- Winnipeg, MB @ Centennial Concert Hall

Published May 29th, 2019

The Cure announced their live concert film will screen in theaters worldwide starting July 11th. Anniversary 1978 - 2018 Live In Hyde Park London was captured during The Cure's 40th anniversary concert in London's Hyde Park last July in 4K by Tim Pope and mixed in 5.1 at Abbey Road Studios by Robert Smith and Paul Corkett.

Tickets for the cinematic screenings go on sale June 6th. The list of participating theaters has not yet been revealed, however those interested can sign up for updates here. View the setlist for the concert film below.

Meanwhile The Cure's fifth and final 30th anniversary Disintegration show streams live worldwide from the Sydney Opera House tomorrow (May 30th). The stream begins at 6am ET (8pm AEST/Sydney time). Fans can access the stream via the venue's You Tube or Facebook. Head here to view the countdown clock.

UPDATE: Watch the replay below



The Cure - Hyde Park setlist

Plainsong
Pictures Of You
High
A Night Like This
The Walk
The End Of The World
Lovesong
Push
Inbetween Days
Just Like Heaven
If Only Tonight We Could Sleep
Play For Today
A Forest
Shake Dog Shake
Burn
Fascination Street
Never Enough
From The Edge Of The Deep Green Sea
Disintegration

Encore

Lullaby
The Caterpillar
Friday I'm In Love
Close To Me
Why Can't I Be You?
Boys Don't Cry
Jumping Someone Else's Train
Grinding Halt
10:15 Saturday Night
Killing An Arab

Published May 29th, 2019

Sunday, May 26, 2019


Classic Alternative - Episode #107: A Ship In The Harbor

Includes David Bowie, The Stranglers, KMFDM, Majesty Crush, The Smiths, XTC, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark.

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


Thursday, May 23, 2019


Richard Ashcroft announced today that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards agreed to give up their share and songwriting credits of "Bitter Sweet Symphony." This is a huge win for Ashcroft, even though he had to wait over twenty years.

"Bitter Sweet Symphony" was released in 1997 as the first single off Urban Hymns. The track was The Verve's biggest hit single in North America and has a bit of a convoluted history.

"Bitter Sweet Symphony" includes an orchestral sample of "The Last Time" -- the track "The Last Time" was originally written/recorded by The Rolling Stones (inspired by The Staple Singers song "This May Be The Last Time"), but the version The Verve lifted was from an orchestral arrangement of the song released by Andrew Oldham Orchestra.

As the story goes, The Verve obtained permission from the Rolling Stones to use a sample from Andrew Oldham Orchestra's version of "The Last Time" for "Bitter Sweet Symphony," but Stones management later claimed the Verve broke the agreement by using more of the song/sample than was previously agreed upon. Meanwhile Andrew Oldham Orchestra's record label sued The Verve since The Verve obtained permission from the Rolling Stones, but did not obtain permission from the label to use Oldham's orchestral arrangement. A mess indeed.

After a LOT of legal wrangling and drama, various deals were struck which ultimately led to The Verve giving away most of the songwriting credit/royalties to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. This amounted in a HUGE loss of income for Richard Ashcroft since "Bitter Sweet Symphony" was a global smash and received massive amounts of airplay. Some twenty years later, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards agreed to give back the songwriting credit.

Richard Ashcroft released a joyous statement today announcing that the songwriting credit for "Bitter Sweet Symphony" has now reverted back to The Verve. Read the full statement below:

"It gives me great pleasure to announce as of last month Mick Jagger and Keith Richards agreed to give me their share of the song "Bitter Sweet Symphony."

This remarkable and life affirming turn of events was made possible by a kind and magnanimous gesture from Mick and Keith, who have also agreed that they are happy for the writing credit to exclude their names and all their royalties derived from the song they will now pass to me. I would like to thank the main players in this, my management Steve Kutner and John Kennedy, the Stones manager Joyce Smyth and Jody Klein (for actually taking the call) lastly a huge unreserved heartfelt thanks and respect to Mick and Keith.

Music is power."












Published May 23rd, 2019

Wednesday, May 22, 2019


The UK electronic magazine Electronic Sound pays tribute to the legendary Factory Records in June. The June issue of the mag (issue 54) includes a double seven-inch titled A Factory Assembly, which features tracks from A Certain Ratio, The Durutti Column, Section 25, and Minny Pops. The seven-inch is a tribute to the rarity A Factory Sample (FAC 2) which commands big money on the secondary market -- if you see one for less than $200, consider it a steal.

A Factory Assembly will be included with Electronic Sound issue #54, which will be published June 13th. Copies of the issue will be available to purchase through the Electronic Sound website. Additionally those interested can obtain a magazine subscription here.

The original FAC 2 limited edition double seven-inch (pictured above) was released in 1979 and featured Joy Division ("Glass" and "Digital"), The Durutti Column ("No Communication" and "Thin Ice"), John Dowie ("Acne," "Idiot," and "Hitler's Liver"), and Cabaret Voltaire ( "Baader-Meinhof" and "Sex In Secret").

Published May 22nd, 2019

Sunday, May 19, 2019


Cherry Red Records announced the release of a new three disc set compiling British indie punk music. 1977: The Year Punk Broke is similar to other compilations from the label in that the tracklisting features an impressive mix of well known classics along with a wide variety of obscurities, so there's much to love and discover here.  The set includes a booklet with extensive liner notes, biographies on each band, and tons of pictures.

View the tracklisting below and pre-order here. 1977: The Year Punk Broke arrives on June 28th.

Disc 1

01. Buzzcocks - Boredom
02. The Stranglers - London Lady
03. The Gorillas - Gatecrasher
04. The Damned - Neat Neat Neat
05. Deaf School - Capaldi's Cafe
06. The Vibrators - Bad Time
07. The Boys - I Don't Care
08. The Jam - Away From The Numbers
09. The Heartbreakers - Born To Lose
10. Eater - Thinkin' Of The U.S.A.
11. The Outsiders - On The Edge
12. The Users - Sick Of You
13. Chartreuse - You Really Got Me
14. The Rings - I Wanna Be Free
15. Models - Man Of The Year
16. The Only Ones - Peter And The Pets
17. Motorhead – Motorhead
18. Celia And The Mutations - Mony Mony
19. Cock Sparrer - Runnin' Riot
20. The Count Bishops - I Need You
21. Blitzkrieg Bop - Let's Go
22. The Killjoys - Naive
23. Johnny Moped - Incendiary Device
24. The Rezillos - I Wanna Be Your Man
25. Radio Stars - No Russians In Russia
26. The Nosebleeds - Fascist Pigs
27. The Exile - Jubilee ’77

Disc 2

01. The Boomtown Rats - Lookin' After No. 1
02. Wreckless Eric - Whole Wide World
03. The Snivelling Shits - I Can't Come
04. Slaughter & The Dogs - Where Have All The Boot Boys Gone
05. The Valves - For Adolfs Only
06. Doctors Of Madness - Bulletin
07. Generation X - Day By Day
08. The Vacants - Television Viewer
09. Alberto Y Lost Trios Paranoias - Kill
10. Puncture - You Can't Rock And Roll (In A Council Flat)
11. Radiators From Space - Enemies
12. The Drones - Just Want To Be Myself (7" version)
13. Sham 69 - Red London
14. P.V.C.2 - Deranged Demented And Free
15. X-Ray Spex - Oh Bondage Up Yours!
16. Tom Robinson Band - 2-4-6-8 Motorway
17. 999 - Nasty, Nasty
18. Ultravox! - Rockwrok
19. The Depressions - Family Planning
20. Zeros - Radio Fun
21. Tyla Gang - Pool Hall Punks
22. The Stukas - Klean Living Kids
23. The Lurkers - Freak Show
24. Jerks - Hold My Hand
25. The Unwanted - Bleak Outlook
26. Some Chicken - Blood On The Wall
27. Menace - Insane Society
28. The Features - Drab City
29. Spider - Back To The Wall
30. New Hearts - Just Another Teenage Anthem
31. The Pleasers - (You Keep On Tellin' Me) Lies

Disc 3

01. John Cooper Clarke - Innocents
02. Alternative TV - How Much Longer
03. The Wasps - She Made Magic
04. Neon Hearts - Regulations
05. Graham Parker & The Rumour - New York Shuffle
06. The Doll - Trash
07. Maniacs - Ain't No Legend
08. Satan's Rats - In My Love For You
09. Larry Wallis - Police Car
10. Eddie & The Hot Rods - Quit This Town
11. The Now - Development Corporations
12. Chelsea - High Rise Living
13. Art Attacks - Arabs in 'Arrods
14. Trash - Priorities
15. The Method - Dynamo
16. Public Zone - Naive
17. Left Hand Drive - Jailbait
18. Swell Maps - Ripped And Torn
19. Acme Sewage Co. - I Can See You
20. The Rats - First Mistake
21. Brainiac Five - Natty Punko
22. The Cortinas - Defiant Pose
23. The Carpettes - Help I'm Trapped
24. NEO - Tell Me The Truthh (Live at the Vortex)
25. Raped – Raped
26. Fruit Eating Bears - Lies
27. Hobbies Of Today - RU12
28. Drug Squad - Left Right And Centre
29. Norman And The Hooligans - I'm A Punk

Published May 19th, 2019

The Ocean Blue announced details behind their highly anticipated new album. Kings And Queens / Knaves And Thieves is the band's seventh studio album and their first full length since 2013's Ultramarine. The album will be released through their independent label Korda on June 21st and will be available on limited edition red vinyl, standard black vinyl, and CD. Head here to view the pre-order options. Stream the beautiful new single "Kings And Queens" below.



The Ocean Blue - U.S. tour

Jun 22 -- Lancaster, PA @ Tellus360
Jun 23 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade
Jun 27 -- Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
Jun 28 -- Portland, OR @ Holocene
Jul 26 -- Minneapolis, MN @ The Fine Line
Jul 27 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Valley Bar
Aug 23 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
Aug 24 -- Norfolk, VA @ NorVA
Oct 04 -- Washington, DC @ Union Stage
Oct 05 -- Vienna, VA @ Jammin Java
Nov 01 -- Ferndale, MI @ The Magic Bag
Nov 03 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
Nov 17 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
Dec 06 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall

Published May 19th, 2019

Morrissey has premiered another song from his forthcoming covers album California Son. The song "Lady Willpower" was originally recorded by Gary Puckett & The Union Gap in 1968 and became a chart topper. Morrissey's version is available to stream below:

California Sun features 12 cover songs and is available to pre-order here or here.



Morrissey -- North American tour

Sep 05 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Sep 07 -- Queens, NY @ Forest Hills Stadium
Sep 09 -- Camden, NJ @ BB & T Pavilion
Sep 11 -- Kettering, OH @ Fraze Pavilion
Sep 13 -- Rochester Hills, MI @ Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Sep 14 -- Highland Park, IL @ Ravinia Festival
Sep 18 -- Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center
Sep 21 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall - Outside
Sep 26 -- Denver, CO @ The Mission Ballroom
Sep 28 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Saltair
Sep 30 -- Portland, OR @ Theatre Of The Clouds
Oct 01 -- Seattle, WA @ WAMU Theatre
Oct 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Oct 05 -- Irvine, CA @ Five Point Amphitheatre
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Pechanga Arena
Oct 10 -- Edmonton, AB @ Northern Alberta
Oct 11 -- Calgary, AB @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Oct 14 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 15 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 21 -- Winnipeg, MB @ Centennial Concert Hall

Published May 19th, 2019

The Waterboys have shared another single off their forthcoming album Where The Action Is. "Ladbroke Grove Symphony" is available to stream below.

Where The Action Is, the 13th studio album from The Waterboys arrives on May 24th. Pre-order here.



The Waterboys - North American tour

Sep 17 -- Red Bank, NJ @ Count Basie Theatre
Sep 18 -- Boston, MA @ The Wilbur
Sep 20 -- Northampton, MA @ Calvin Theatre
Sep 21 -- Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live
Sep 22 -- Washington, DC @ Lincoln Theatre
Sep 23 -- New York, NY @ Webster Hall
Sep 25 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Sep 26 -- Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
Sep 28 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
Sep 29 -- Chicago, IL @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Oct 01 -- Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
Oct 02 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
Oct 06 -- Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
Oct 07 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Oct 08 -- Seattle, WA @ The Neptune
Oct 12 -- San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park
Oct 13 -- Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory
Oct 15 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Belasco Theatre

Published May 19th, 2019

Saturday, May 18, 2019


Ian Curtis died on this day in 1980. Though Ian is gone, his music and memory -- not to mention his impact on music and culture -- will never be forgotten. His influence remains undeniable; his light continues to shine through recordings of his brilliant music and intense energetic live performances. Keep Ian in your thoughts today and enjoy some music and discussion about the legendary Ian Curtis and Joy Division.









Curtis' life was featured on the BBC program Great Lives in 2008. Host Matthew Parris, British poet Simon Armitage and Peter Hook discussed Curtis' life, musical impact, and his final days. During the show, Hook played a short snippet of an unreleased version of Ian Curtis singing "Love Will Tear Us Apart" recorded by Malcolm McLaren. Stream the episode of Great Lives below - more info on the episode is posted here.



Curtis took his own life the day before Joy Division were scheduled to leave England to come to America for their first tour. The full Joy Division North American tour itinerary isn't officially available to view, however this website attempted to piece the tour together using Rob Gretton's notes, club ads, and other scraps of info. FYI, there was a Detroit date scheduled for May 26th at Bookies.



A short documentary from 1987 featuring Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris, Tony Wilson, Rob Gretton, and Alan Erasmus talking about Ian Curtis and Joy Division. There's also a few comments made about the commercialization of Curtis' death.



An excellent documentary on Joy Division simply titled Joy Division was released in 2007. The film includes interviews with Curtis' band members as well as key players like Peter Saville, Anton Corbijn, and Tony Wilson, among others. The full documentary has been pulled from You Tube but it is available to view on Netflix.









Thursday, May 16, 2019


In the summer of 2017 New Order performed a residency as part of the Manchester International Festival at the legendary Granada Studios. New Order performed classics from their catalog backed by a 12 piece synthesizer ensemble and stunning visuals created by Liam Gillick with input from the legendary Peter Saville. The series of critically acclaimed wall of synth shows later became the focus of a Sky Arts documentary New Order: Decades, which premiered last fall.

Today New Order announced plans to release a live album of material captured at the legendary MIF residency. ∑(No,12k,Lg,17Mif) New Order + Liam Gillick: So it goes.. (Live at MIF) features the July 13th, 2017 show along with three additional tracks recorded at their other residency shows.

∑(No,12k,Lg,17Mif) New Order + Liam Gillick: So it goes.. (Live at MIF) will be released on limited edition triple vinyl, double CD, and digital album download. The physical versions also include a 24 page booklet. Head here for all the pre-order options.

Stream "Subculture" from the album below and head here to pre-order.



New Order - ∑(No,12k,Lg,17Mif) New Order + Liam Gillick: So it goes.. (Live at MIF)

01. Times Change
02. Who's Joe
03. Dream Attack
04. Disorder
05. Ultraviolence
06. In A Lonely Place
07. All Day Long
08. Shellshock
09. Guilt Is A Useless Emotion
10. Subculture
11. Bizarre Love Triangle
12. Vanishing Point
13. Plastic
14. Your Silent Face
15. Decades
16. Elegia
17. Heart & Soul
18. Behind Closed Doors

Published May 16th, 2019

Depeche Mode unearthed the "Stripped (Alternate Cut)" from their archives. "Stripped" was the first single and video released off Black Celebration in 1986. The band shared the alternate cut video today in promotion of their upcoming limited edition single box sets for Black Celebration and Music For The Masses which arrive as individual box sets later this month. Like the original version of the "Stripped" music video, the alternate cut version was directed by Peter Care. View both versions of the video below.

As with the previously released limited edition box sets in the series, the sets for Black Celebration and Music For The Masses feature audio mastered from the original tapes, and includes original singles and special 12" vinyl. The artwork for the outer box packaging was inspired by the original releases, while the vinyl sleeves contained inside feature the original single artwork. The box sets will be released May 31st and are available to pre-order here.

Depeche Mode's previous albums Speak And Spell, A Broken Frame, Construction Time Again, and Some Great Reward were issued as box sets in 2018 and are available to purchase here.





Published May 16th, 2019

Wednesday, May 15, 2019


The Ocean Blue return this summer with a brand new album. The highly anticipated release will be the band's seventh studio album overall and their first full length in over six years. The album will be released in July -- the official date and details are still to be announced, but are expected shortly.

In the meantime, The Ocean Blue have firmed up a handful of tour dates including a Detroit area stop at the Magic Bag in Ferndale on November 1st. Tickets for all the tour dates are on sale now with the exception of the DC and Virginia shows. View the tour itinerary below:



The Ocean Blue - U.S. tour

Jun 22 -- Lancaster, PA @ Tellus 360
Jun 23 -- New York, NY @ Rough Trade
Jun 27 -- Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
Jun 28 -- Portland, OR @ Holocene
Jul 26 -- Minneapolis, MN @ The Fine Line
Oct 04 -- Washington, DC @ Union Stage
Oct 05 -- Vienna, VA @ Jammin Java
Nov 01 -- Ferndale, MI @ The Magic Bag

Published May 15th, 2019

The Waterboys return with their 13th studio album Where The Action Is on May 24th. Today the legendary band announced they'll hit the road in North America in support of the record this fall. The tour itinerary includes a stop at the Majestic Theatre on September 26th. Tickets for the tour go on sale this Friday, May 17th.

Stream the band's new single "Right Side Of Heartbreak (Wrong Side Of Love)" and pre-order here. View the tour itinerary below:

FYI: According to The Waterboys "a few more" dates will be announced shortly.



The Waterboys - North American tour

Sep 17 -- Red Bank, NJ @ Count Basie Theatre
Sep 18 -- Boston, MA @ The Wilbur
Sep 20 -- Northampton, MA @ Calvin Theatre
Sep 21 -- Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live
Sep 22 -- Washington, DC @ Lincoln Theatre
Sep 23 -- New York, NY @ Webster Hall
Sep 25 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Sep 26 -- Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
Sep 28 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
Sep 29 -- Chicago, IL @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Oct 01 -- Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
Oct 02 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
Oct 06 -- Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
Oct 07 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Oct 08 -- Seattle, WA @ The Neptune
Oct 12 -- San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park
Oct 13 -- Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory
Oct 15 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Belasco Theatre

Published May 15th, 2019

Tuesday, May 14, 2019


Ministry have released an encore edition of an early Ministry set captured live in 1982. All six tracks found on Chicago 1982 were recorded live at On Broadway in Chicago on May 18th, 1982. This iteration of Ministry includes Al Jourgensen, Stephen George, Bob Roberts, and John Davis. Unfortunately all 180 copies of the limited edition 12" vinyl sold out immediately, however the album is still available as a digital album download though Bandcamp.













Published May 14th, 2019

Last year The Cure celebrated their 40th anniversary with a huge festival at Hyde Park, and now Robert Smith has curated another festival which takes place this summer in Pasadena, California.

According to Smith, “Hyde Park was a fabulous experience, the whole day was really magical, and we wanted to create something with a similar celebratory vibe for this summer.”

The Pasadena Daydream Festival will be headlined (of course) by The Cure and will include performances by Pixies, Deftones, Mogwai, The Twilight Sad, Kaelan Mikla and more. The daylong event takes place at The Brookside at The Rose Bowl in Pasedena, California on August 31st. Tickets go on sale this Friday, May 17th at 3PM ET (noon PT). One dollar from every ticket sold will go towards music and arts education organizations and local charities, which include Mr. Holland’s Opus, Little Kids Rock, Free Arts for Abused Children, Inner-City Arts and The Painted Turtle.

For the full lowdown/details/ticketing info on Pasadena Daydream Festival head here.

Meanwhile, Robert Smith recently revealed that the 40th anniversary Hyde Park show in London was filmed by Tim Pope and will be given a cinematic premiere this summer. Details on that are expected to be announced shortly.

Published May 14th, 2019

As previously reported, Ride return with their sixth studio album This Is Not A Safe Place on August 16th. A few weeks ago the band premiered the first single, "Future Love" and now they've debuted the official video for the track which is available to view below.

Along with the video premiere today Ride unveiled dates for a North American tour in support of the record which kicks off in Detroit at Saint Andrew's Hall on September 16th. Tickets for the tour go on sale this Friday, May 17th.

This Is Not A Safe Place arrives on August 16th on CD, double gatefold 2LP, and green limited edition 2LP. View pre-order options here.



Ride -- North American tour

Sep 16 -- Detroit, MI @ Saint Andrew's Hall
Sep 17 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Sep 18 -- Montreal, QC @ Theatre Fairmount
Sep 20 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Sep 21 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Sep 22 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
Sep 24 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
Sep 26 -- Nashville, TN @ EXIT/IN
Sep 27 -- Carrboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle
Sep 28 -- Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel
Sep 29 -- Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
Oct 01 -- Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
Oct 02 -- Dallas, TX @ Trees
Oct 04 -- Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater
Oct 07 -- Vancouver, BC @ Venue
Oct 08 -- Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
Oct 09 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Oct 11 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom
Oct 14 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Teragram Ballroom
Oct 15 -- San Diego, CA @ House Of Blues San Diego
Oct 16 -- Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory

Published May 14th, 2019

As promised, Morrissey appeared on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon and performed "Morning Starship." The performance is available to view here or down below.

"Morning Starship" is featured on Morrissey's forthcoming covers album California Son which arrives on May 24th.







Published May 14th, 2019

Sunday, May 12, 2019


Classic Alternative - Episode #105: Promenade

Includes music from David Bowie, The Cure, The Clash, Lush, Front 242, Buzzcocks, Material Issue, The Smiths, Ramones, and Joy Division.

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


Music stories from the week

Joy Division announce 40th anniversary edition of Unknown Pleasures
Morrissey wows Broadway with live debut of "I Won't Share You"
Buzzcocks announce guests for Pete Shelley tribute
Morrissey lines up Tonight Show gig + releasing California Son Ultimate M Box
Nick Cave announces North American 'Conversations' tour

Morrissey wrapped up his Broadway residency last night in style at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. For the duration of his residency Mozzer has been dazzling the audience with rarely played classics from The Smiths and his solo catalog. To this end, closing night was even more extra-special because he dusted off the Strangeways classic "I Won't Share You" and performed it live in concert for the first time!

Morrissey told the crowd, "Take my word for it, life is just a blink of an eye, so what the hell are you going to do with your blink?" then segued into "I Won't Share You." Watch fan filmed video of the performance below:





Morrissey - setlist 5/11/19

The Last Of The Famous International Playboys
How Soon Is Now?
Irish Blood, English Heart
You're The One For Me Fatty
Alma Matters
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
Morning Starship
Spent The Day In Bed
Munich Air Disaster 1958
The Bullfighter Dies
If You Don't Like Me, Don't Look At Me
Seasick, Yet Still Docked
Girl Afraid
Back On The Chain Gang
Jack The Ripper
I Won't Share You
Everyday Is Like Sunday
What She Said
First Of The Gang To Die

Morrissey -- North American tour

Sep 05 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Sep 07 -- Queens, NY @ Forest Hills Stadium
Sep 09 -- Camden, NJ @ BB & T Pavilion
Sep 11 -- Kettering, OH @ Fraze Pavilion
Sep 13 -- Rochester Hills, MI @ Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Sep 14 -- Highland Park, IL @ Ravinia Festival
Sep 18 -- Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center
Sep 21 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall - Outside
Sep 28 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Saltair
Sep 30 -- Portland, OR @ Theatre Of The Clouds
Oct 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Oct 05 -- Irvine, CA @ Five Point Amphitheatre
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Pechanga Arena
Oct 10 -- Edmonton, AB @ Northern Alberta
Oct 11 -- Calgary, AB @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Oct 14 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 15 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 21 -- Winnipeg, MB @ Centennial Concert Hall

Published May 12th, 2019

As previously reported, Buzzcocks will be performing a tribute concert in honor of Pete Shelley next month in London. A Celebration Of The Life Of Pete Shelley will feature current and original/ex-members of Buzzcocks along with guest vocalists. This week the band revealed a few names that are scheduled to appear alongside them: ex-Buzzcocks members John Maher and Steve Garvey; Captain Sensible and Dave Vanian from The Damned, and Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth. More guests will be announced in the coming weeks.

A Celebration Of Pete Shelley's Life takes place June 21st at Royal Albert Hall in London.



Saturday, May 11, 2019


Morrissey wraps up residency in Broadway with one last show at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre tonight. Thus far his string of Broadway performances and setlists -- which have been packed with classics -- have elicited glowing reviews from the press. After he packs things in tonight, he has one last appearance in New York -- on Monday, May 13th he'll perform on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

UPDATE: Morrissey performed "Morning Starship" on The Tonight Show.


In advance of his new covers album California Son, Morrissey has announced a limited edition package. The California Son Ultimate M Box includes a copy of the album on vinyl, the 7" single "Wedding Bell Blues," t-shirt, "celebratory" pin, and limited edition record player. Sales are limited to those in the U.S. and U.K. Pre-order here.



Morrissey -- North American tour

Sep 05 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Sep 07 -- Queens, NY @ Forest Hills Stadium
Sep 09 -- Camden, NJ @ BB & T Pavilion
Sep 11 -- Kettering, OH @ Fraze Pavilion
Sep 13 -- Rochester Hills, MI @ Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Sep 14 -- Highland Park, IL @ Ravinia Festival
Sep 18 -- Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center
Sep 21 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall - Outside
Sep 28 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Saltair
Sep 30 -- Portland, OR @ Theatre Of The Clouds
Oct 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Oct 05 -- Irvine, CA @ Five Point Amphitheatre
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Pechanga Arena
Oct 10 -- Edmonton, AB @ Northern Alberta
Oct 11 -- Calgary, AB @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Oct 14 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 15 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Oct 21 -- Winnipeg, MB @ Centennial Concert Hall

Published May 11th, 2019

Tuesday, May 7, 2019


Unknown Pleasures, the debut album from Joy Division was released June 15th, 1979 and turns 40 years old next month. To mark the milestone, Joy Division announced the release of a limited edition vinyl edition of the seminal album. The 40th anniversary edition will be pressed on 180 gm ruby red vinyl and includes white cover art.

Though the Unknown Pleasures artwork is one of the most iconic and instantly identifiable album covers in music history, the original concept was to feature a white backing with black accents similar to the original pulsar image that served as the inspiration for the artwork. (The intriguing image was published in the Cambridge Encyclopedia of Astronomy and was later adapted by Peter Saville for the album artwork.)

The 40th anniversary edition of Unknown Pleasures will be released on June 14th. Visit the official Joy Division store to view pre-order options and bundles.

Joy Division have partnered with London clothing retailer Goodhood. The company created an Unknown Pleasures-inspired "collaborative capsule collection that spans apparel, homeware and accessories." The collection will be available at Goodhood from June 27th through July 11th.





Published May 7th, 2019


Monday, May 6, 2019


Nick Cave has announced a North American leg of his intimate Conversations world tour.  Conversations With Nick Cave - An Evening Of Talk And Music promises to be a phenomenal experience for Cave enthusiasts -- he'll perform songs from his catalog on piano plus field a wide array questions from the audience. Similar to his newsletter The Red Hand Files no topics are off limits though he does request those in attendance to abstain from recording the Q & A portions of the show in order to ensure a comfortable and open environment.

The 14 date tour bypasses Detroit, but would be well worth a road trip for Nick Cave devotees. Tickets for the tour go on sale this Friday, May 10th at 10am local time. View the tour itinerary below.



Conversations With Nick Cave - An Evening Of Talk & Music

Sep 20 -- Washington, DC @ The Lincoln Theatre
Sep 23 -- New York, NY @ Town Hall
Sep 25 -- Cambridge, MA @ Sanders Theatre
Sep 27 -- Montreal, QC @ Eglise du Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Sep 28 -- Toronto, ON @ Convocation Hall
Sep 30 -- Chicago, IL @ Copernicus Center
Oct 01 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Pantages Theatre
Oct 03 -- Nashville, TN @ James K. Polk Theater
Oct 06 -- Austin, TX @ Moody Theater
Oct 08 -- Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall
Oct 10 -- New Westminster, BC @ Massey Theatre
Oct 11 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
Oct 13 -- San Francisco, CA @ Davies Symphony Hall
Oct 15 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Walt Disney Concert Hall

Published May 6th, 2019

Sunday, May 5, 2019


Classic Alternative - Episode #104: Quicksand

Includes music from Spacemen 3, The Stone Roses, The Clash, 999, Ash, Pixies, Depeche Mode, The Church, and The Smiths.

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


Music stories from the week

Nitzer Ebb issue statement regarding North American tour
Michael Stipe plays surprise set in NYC
The Cure prep Hyde Park 40th anniversary concert film
Noel Gallagher announces Black Star Dancing EP
The Cure return to U.S. to play ACL Festival
Morrissey kicks off Broadway residency
The Cure to live stream Disintegration 30th anniversary show
David J debuts "The Auteur (Redux/The Starlet's Cut)"

Nitzer Ebb kick off the first leg of their North American tour this week, however due to an unfortunate development beyond their control all four original members will not be present. The band issued a statement this morning informing fans David Gooday and Simon Granger are having visa issues which will prevent them from entering the U.S. It's unclear whether the second leg of North American dates in September will be affected, but it is possible the issues will be sorted out by then.

Read Nitzer Ebb's statement below:

"It is with great sadness that NITZER EBB have to inform you all that due to unforeseen delays with David Gooday and Simon Granger’s visas they will not be joining the first leg of the North American NITZER EBB PRODUKT TOUR that commences in Boston May 9th.

Nobody is more disappointed by this news than NEP, especially David and Simon.

The good news is that Bon and Douglas are excited and ready for great shows despite the change of circumstances and that David and Simon will be joining them for rest of the tour starting in Barcelona May 30th.

We thank you in advance for your understanding"

Nitzer Ebb -- North American tour

May 09 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
May 10 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Elsewhere
May 11 -- Montreal, QC @ Societe des Arts Technologiques
May 12 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of the Living Arts
May 14 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
May 15 -- Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
May 17 -- Denver, CO @ The Oriental Theater
May 20 -- Tampa Bay, FL @ The Orpheum
May 21 -- Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
May 24 -- Miami, FL @ The Ground at Space
May 25 -- Houston, TX @ Numbers
May 26 -- Dallas, TX @ Trees

Second leg:

Sep 19 -- Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
Sep 20 -- Chicago, IL @ Metro
Sep 21 -- Detroit, MI @ St. Andrew's Hall
Sep 23 -- Vancouver, BC @ VENUE
Sep 25 -- Seattle, WA @ Neumos
Sep 26 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Sep 27 -- San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
Oct 05 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent Theater

Published May 5th, 2019

Saturday, May 4, 2019

Michael Stipe was back in action last week. The legendary R.E.M. vocalist performed a surprise set before Patti Smith's headlining show at Webster Hall in New York City. During his 15 minute set, the clean-shaven Stipe performed two new solo songs "Your Capricious Soul" and "Drive To The Ocean."

Watch fan filmed video of Stipe's performance below:





Published May 4th, 2019


Robert Smith revealed in a new interview with Sirius that The Cure's 40th anniversary Hyde Park show that took place in London last July will screen in theaters this summer. Director Tim Pope has teased fans with a few comments about the film on Twitter over the past year (with scant details), but now confirms that the film has been mixed in "glorious" surround sound and that it will enjoy a global release in early summer.

Screening dates have not yet been announced, so stay tuned.

Meanwhile Smith also mentioned in the Sirius interview that he's likely not up for playing more 30th anniversary Disintegration shows other than the previously announced series of gigs that take place later this month in Sydney. To make it up to fans outside of Sydney, Smith reminded fans that they'll be able to live stream The Cure's Disintegration show May 30th on You Tube. The band will perform the classic 1989 album in full along with a selection of b-sides and other cuts from their catalog.

The Cure will be returning to the U.S. this October for their headline slots at Austin City Limits. Three day passes for the festival are on sale now.





Published May 4th, 2019

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds return with a new EP titled Black Star Dancing on June 14th. The five song EP features a slickly produced pop-dance title track which Gallagher says is a combination of his influences:

"It manages to combine the influences of David Bowie, INXS, U2, Queen, Indeep AND ZZ Top FFS!... I might have been watching too much Top Of The Pops recently ... anyway, it's ‘dope’ ... not my words, but the words of Nile Rodgers who literally danced in the studio when he heard it!"

Fans that were disappointed in Gallagher's last album Who Built The Moon? likely won't enjoy this further departure from his classic guitar-based Oasis sound, but he deserves credit for not being a one-trick pony.

The Black Star Dancing EP is the first in a series of EPs that Gallagher will be releasing in 2019. The second EP is due in the fall, and the final EP will be released around Christmas.

Stream "Black Star Dancing" below and pre-order here.



Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds/Smashing Pumpkins tour

Aug 08 -- Camden, NJ @ BB & T Pavilion
Aug 09 -- Wantagh, NY @ Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
Aug 10 -- Darien Center, NY @ Darien Lake Amphitheater
Aug 13 -- Toronto, ON @ Budweiser Stage
Aug 14 -- Clarkston, MI @ DTE
Aug 15 -- Tinley Park, IL @ Hollywood Casino amphitheatre
Aug 17 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Aug 19 -- Cuyahoga Falls, OH @ Blossom Music Center
Aug 20 -- Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion
Aug 21 -- Alpharetta, GA @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Aug 23 -- Rogers, AR @ The Walmart AMP
Aug 24 -- Dallas, TX @ Dos Equis Pavilion
Aug 25 -- The Woodlands, TX @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Aug 28 -- Chula Vista, CA @ North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
Aug 30 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Banc Of California Stadium
Aug 31 -- Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheatre

Published May 4th, 2019

David J is releasing a single featuring Rose McGowan titled "The Auteur (Redux/The Starlet's Cut)" on June 14th. The single is an updated version of his 2002 track "The Auteur" and is the first taste of the legendary bassist's forthcoming double album Missive To An Angel From The Halls Of Infamy And Allure, which is scheduled to arrive in the fall.

Stream the official video for "The Auteur (Redux/The Starlet's Cut)" below:



Published May 4th, 2019

Friday, May 3, 2019


Morrissey kicked off his Broadway residency last night at Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. Moz appeared to be in good spirits and playful with the crowd during the show. He kicked off the party singing "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out...On Broadway," then segued into The Smiths' classic "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore." A bold statement to the media indeed.

View fan-filmed video and the setlist from opening night below:











Morrissey - May 2nd, 2019

That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore
Suedehead
Alma Matters
Hairdresser On Fire
Is It Really So Strange
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
How Soon Is Now?
I Wish You Lonely
World Peace Is None Of Your Business
Morning Starship
If You Don't Like Me, Don't Look At Me
Munich Air Disaster 1958
Back On The Chain Gang
The Bullfighter Dies
Trouble Loves Me
Jack The Ripper
Seaside, Yet Still Docked
Everyday Is Like Sunday
What She Said
Let Me Kiss You

Published May 3rd, 2019