It's A Hot Summer For K-pop!

Summer time has come and with the release of the single and repackaged album Hot Summer by f(x) it looks like this season is going to hotter than ever!

Finding love in the summer sun!

After winning performance after performance on various Korean TV music shows and racking up award after award, f(x) has released their repackaged album Hot Summer. Available both in Korea and on itunes in the United States it contains all of the songs from their first full album Pinocchio and also two new songs Hot Summer and ...Is It Ok?

Fans will also be overjoyed to see previous singles La Cha Ta and Chu♡ on the repackaged release as well seeing as the singles were originally released a year ago.

The previous single Pinocchio (Danger) was just released on April 18th and f(x) has been touring with SM Town which recently played a concert in Paris, France. Despite the fact that none of the acts have ever released any music there the concert still managed to sell out 14,000 tickets in just two days. You can watch the live f(x) performance here.

Fashion, fun, great vocals, and slick dance moves

While the song Hot Summer is a cover, the original of which was done by German band Monrose, fans don't seem to care much and the video is quickly earning more and more views on YouTube after being released just yesterday June 17th.

f(x) has already done two live performances of the song on Music Bank and Music Core. All while dancing and wearing heels that would make most music stars scream for mercy. Well except for Amber Liu who's tomboyish looks favored a pair of stylish sneakers instead.

It's good to see SM Entertainment giving more attention to fans overseas and releasing songs from their artists on itunes.

I already have my copy so go out and get yours today!

Metal Madness: Screaming Girls, Electric Cellos, and Plenty of Black Leather

Metal. Its a genre of music that has propelled teenagers to all new levels of obsession and reduced rational parents into mystified, head shaking adults who cannot fathom why their children would listen to such "noise". Now I'll admit there are plenty of adults who love metal or heavy metal as well, but for the most part metal isn't as widely accepted as some might like it to be.

However, the bands Apocalyptica, Black Veil Brides, and Exist Trace (more commonly stylized as exist†trace) are all changing people's perceptions of what metal music is and how good it can really be. Whether is through the cello, a visual look that would put KISS to shame, or by being the only all female screamo group around these three groups have reached amazing success through creative songs, looks, and let's not forget amazing talent.

exist†trace is showing the men what metal is really about

exist†trace is an all female Visual Kei band straight from Tokyo, Japan. Exist Trace's music can best be described as melodic death metal, which  isn't something you hear every day and Jyou's growls and shouts rival that of any man's. Just look at their song Judea if you need proof.

Being a Visual Kei band their stylish and individual looks go hand in hand with their music and both are starting to turn heads the world over as one of Japan's first all female Visual Kei rock bands. This genre of music is generally reserved for the guys, but they had better step aside as these women are out to conquer. Singles such as Resonance and the teaser for their new song True show that there is plenty of talent to go around in this group. A heavy focus is put on the bass and drumming in their songs and this helps define their musical style and growing popularity inside and outside of Japan.

The girls have been together since 2003 and recently made their U.S. debut when they played at Sakura-Con 2011 in Seattle, Washington. On June 15, 2011 they will release their EP True.




Cello rock or cello metal? Either way this band is worth listening to


Originally getting their start as a Metallica tribute or cover band, Apocalpytica has certainly come a long way since those days when some postulated that they would quickly fade off the scene due to the fact that they only released cover songs.

While they formed way back in 1993, with a different lineup, it wasn't until the year 2000 that Apocalpytica released their third studio album Cult which contained 10 original songs as well as 3 covers. The first track featuring vocals was released in 2002 and their forth studio album featuring all original songs was released in 2003.

Their success really started to take off, however, with the release of their self titled album Apocalpytica in 2005 featuring unique electric cello songs unlike anything else to date. The album featured only one song with vocals. Undeniably a heavy rock if not metal album the studio release has found much success was followed by their sixth studio release World's Collide in 2007 and most recently 7th Symphony released late 2010. It features eight instrumental tracks and also four tracks with guest vocals. This latest track as well as their soundtrack for the video game MAG: S.V.E.R has shown a definite turn from rock to metal and helped to solidify Apocalyptica's place in the rock annals.

They've played nearly 1000 live shows and this is one of the biggest reasons as to why they are so successful. As a person who has seen them live I can honestly say that they have to be seen and heard at a live concert for you to get the best glimpse of just how talented these men are. Metal could not have better poster child then Apocalpytica and here's hoping that they will infuse even more metal overtures or undertones into their future songs as they seem determined to do.



Fan loyalty has driven Black Veil Brides straight to the top of the charts


Next up are the Black Veil Brides. If there is one thing to be said about these guys its that they may very well have the most loyal fans in the world. Young people in countries everywhere around the globe are flocking to hear a band that has not only brought back true rock and roll, but also the looks and stage presence that is so lacking at shows and in bands today. Never ones to do anything half way, the Black Veil Brides are set to release their first major label album not even a year after their first official album entitled We Stitch These Wounds.

Deep vocals and heavy screams accompanied by a heavy focus on Jake Pitt's unparalleled guitar solo's make their songs stand out from all other rock and metal albums out today. One full song from their latest album Set The World on Fire is already out and two more teasers have been released as well. While its hard to define them exactly, they have a clear metal sound to them to go with their glam rock looks. They've got talent in spades and determination that never stops.

They made it through a devastating earthquake in Japan, and unprecedented tornado outbreak in the south eastern U.S., and several disappointments when their song Set The World On Fire didn't make it into the movie Scream 4 and their single Fallen Angels could not be released on the originally planned date. A few setbacks and changing drummers aren't going to stop these guys though and they've already completed filming for the second single off their next album before the album or the first single has even been released.

Don't call them cocky unless you want an army of fans coming down on your heads. Then again go ahead because these guys have more than enough talent to back up their boasting. Namely that they will be bigger than KISS and that they are finally bringing real rock and roll back to the masses.

Some people think of meaningless screaming and noise when they thing of metal music. Those that know better think of a girl group that has helped pave the way for other female rock groups in Japan, a group of cello players who can play a classical instrument the way no one else could every dream of doing, and five young men conquering the world through their powerful lyrics and music.

Metal is here to stay and I for one say that it has never before looked as good as this.

1st Album Review: Pinocchio by f(x)

Korean girl group f(x) has gained fans all over Korea and all over the world thanks to their unique look and unique combination of singers. With the release of their very first official album f(x) is performing and winning awards left and right, but how do their new songs stack up to all this hype? I'm a huge f(x) fan and was extremely excited to get this album into my hands. So here we go.



Pinocchio is here!


The album Pinocchio opens with their single Danger. This edgy pop song is quickly gaining views on YouTube and the video has a great style as well as a bright background to highlight the girls changing fashion styles. Its a great song and while it may not be stuck in your head for days, its still worth buying. Some might view the lyrics as redundant but I feel that this factor helps to add to the songs appeal.

Luna's voice really shines through on the song, but its lacking in that Amber doesn't rap more than one line. Her rapping would have helped the song stand out more, instead it falls somewhat flat since she doesn't get a singing part the way the other girls do.

After that is the song Sweet Witches. This very upbeat tone doesn't do much to lift your spirits and the opening synth beat just feels way out of place. f(x) carries a very urban pop feel but instead this song delivers a sugary sweet pop feel that just doesn't fit in with their look, much less their vocals. We really could have done without this song.




f(x) is ready to add a little Danger to your life


Third on this album is Dangerous. This song is more upbeat and less edgy then the title would have you believe and the first verses could easily turn you off, but give this song and chance and you'll find yourself singing along and driving around town like a super spy out on a mission. The high pitched singing voices the girls churn out do seem a little off putting at times though. Listen to it a few times, however, and it proves itself to be a good song. Not great, but good.

Fourth is the song Beautiful Goodbye. As one of only two ballads on the song it doesn't quite reach the same emotional heights as Sorry (Dear Daddy) from the first mini album. However, it does a good job of showing off the girls great singing voices and proves that there are kpop groups out there that can sing instead of relying on overly auto tuned song lyrics. Beautiful Goodbye is a soothing rhythm that shows you how good these girls really are when it comes to singing. The combination comes together beautifully on this song.

Gangsta Boy is up next but instead of the edgy tune in the same flavor as Mr. Boogie it is actually a rather stripped down song with a simpler melody then the first song Danger. I wasn't a fan of it at first but after listening to it a couple times I think its a great song although Luna's staple high note seems a bit unnecessary and the cheesy final bridge/verse will make you bust out laughing rather than actually enjoy the song. The ending ruined it a bit for me my taking the sugary sweet tone that is so out of place with the style f(x) portrays.

f(x) is out to win the Love of their fans

The 6th song Love. It may be sweet with a few sprinkles on top but for the first time on this album it actually works out pretty well. It brings back a little bit of the pop feel that f(x) is supposed to have and while it's not the best song I've heard from my girls at f(x), that doesn't mean it isn't worth playing.

Stand Up! falls into the same category as Sweet Witches. It's trying to showcase how cute and pretty the girls are without much success. Its so sweet you can barely stand it. Just skip this one.

Almost to the end of the album we have the funky song My Style to help round out the album. As a reminder of some of their past songs this one is actually a favorite of mine. The verses and chorus are perfect and the girls vocals all make this song a great one. Amber switches things up by rapping entirely in English this time and that gives this one that extra kick it needs to stand out.

As the last ballad on the album you'll find that the song So Into U is one of the best songs off the album. Amber actually gets a chance to sing on this album instead of just showing up to rap a few lines towards the end and then disappearing again. Her part is towards the beginning and will certainly shut up anyone foolish enough to question her singing abilities. Not only can Amber hold a note in tune, but she does it very well. Luna's high note seems thrown in just because she's good at it, but aside from that this is a great song. Not quite at single status but it tries hard to get there.

f(x) is winning performances left and right

Finally we have Lollipop featuring boy band and label mates SHINee. Actually this is the Korean remake of the same song that f(x) did with Chinese group MIC. Much as I love my boys from SHINee Lollipop actually might have been a better song without them. Onew has a great voice and his part is the best part of this song, but the others' just don't quite come together. That said this song is going to be stuck in your head for some time once you listen to it and your finger will keep itching to hit the replay button.

f(x) is a great group that is overflowing with potential, unfortunately this album doesn't do much to prove that. SM Entertainment is known for mixing things up, but they should have stuck with the style that made f(x) popular in the first place.

Overall this album gets a 3.5 out of 5. Pretty good album, but it certainly could have been better.

New Releases of the Year Part 2

This is a year of some big releases in the music world and this is a follow up to the last post.

While 2011 may be a year of comebacks and music releases it has also been one marked by drama. Case in point being Paramore who lost two of its members.


We are (still) a band!

While Hayley Williams, Jeremy Davis, and Taylor York handled the matter with calm and kind professionalism, brothers Josh and Zac took a less savory route and slammed their former band with numerous accusations. The remaining three members addressed and confirmed some of these issues in an interview with MTV.

Paramore fans, however, were not swayed and have loudly proclaimed that they (still) love their band. Now that the tour is over the band is back in the studio working on their next album and will be recording a batch of songs this summer. The next full length album is set to be released later this year or in 2012 and fans of Paramore will be there every step of the way to support their band.

Another band marked by the loss of a few band members is Evanescence.



Never listen to rumors.


Amy Lee is the only original member still with the band and there has been a total of 10 musicians so far since the group released its first album Fallen in 2003. Rumors of Amy Lee being an "iron fisted" diva started to swirl after the messy departure of Ben Moody in 2003 followed by drummer Rocky Gray and guitarist John LeComp in 2007.

After The Open Door which was released in 2006 and sold 5 million albums the problems started again as Amy Lee reported in Spin Magazine. She had done a lot of writing without the band while producer Steve Lillywhite had them working on some experimental songs with more of an electro lean to them. The sessions were stopped, but music will find a way. Amy Lee and the new members moved in together and started re-working her songs and also creating some new material as well. Now functioning as a real band things started to come together and now Evanescence is back in the studio this April and is looking to release their new album sometime this year.

A band with less drama but certainly not less talent is the Black Veil Brides.

Rock and roll is back to Set The World on Fire!


After releasing their first independent album We Stitch These Wounds on July 20th 2010 the glam rock band has skyrocketed in popularity due entirely to their devoted fans the BVB Army. Now well into the AP Tour they have, or have almost, completed their next album entitled Set The World on Fire. The title track for this album was chosen by popular demand to be in the movie Scream 4 which is now in theatres. However, the first single off this album Fallen Angels will be released soon with the full length CD coming out in this summer on June 14th.

This is a great year for old pros and new faces. Whether you like pop, rock, or metal. English, Korean, or Japanese the language of music is universal and this year is shaping up to be one for the record books.

New Releases of the Year Part 1

It would seem that this is the year of the music. Tons of artists around the world either have or are preparing to release new songs, singles, or full length albums. From the United States all the way over to South Korea the music charts are being dominated by talented young stars.

First up is Lady Gaga.


Lady Gaga is the new Queen of Pop


Her real name is Stefani Germanotta, but now legions of "Little Monsters" know her as Lady Gaga, or just Gaga as she prefers to be called. After joining Streamline Records and writing songs for fellow label artists, she was signed to Akon's label Kon Live Distribution. It was in 2008 that Lady Gaga released a record her own titled The Fame and emerged on the scene with her first smash hit Just Dance. The rest as they say is history.

Following up with The Fame Monster in 2009, Gaga then went on another worldwide tour. When it finishes up this May it will have run for over one and a half years. Now we have the latest single of her new album called Born This Way which sold 1 million copies in just 5 days making it the fastest selling single in iTunes history. Today her fans were surprised with an early release of the next single Judas and Gaga's next full length album is scheduled for a May 23rd release.

Continuing the pop line up is are some girls that have shown us all what it really means to be a fan. Naturally we're talking about fans of the Korean girl group f(x) who nearly started a revolution when one of the members, Amber, disappeared off the radar due to a sprained ankle.



These five girls are gonna rock the kpop scene all over again!

After months of agonizing wait, fans around the world will finally get the comeback they have been dying for. While a teaser video for their new single Danger has been released the full video will be posted to the official SM Entertainment YouTube page on April 18th followed by the album release on April 20th.

The alternating rapping style of Amber combined with the sweet pop vocals of the other girls Luna, Krystal, Sulli, and Victoria provides a unique twist on the all too familiar girl group that idea that is currently overflowing in the Korean pop market.

Already the teaser is generating tons of interest and fans are more excited then ever to see their girls back in action with the same strong pop sound and fashion sense that made them popular in the first place. If fan dedication and parodies are anything to go by then the girls of f(x) are on their way to even greater stardom and popularity.

Now lets move on to Japan.

Electropop rock doesn't come in any flavor other then LM.C

Another upcoming single release is by the Japanese visual kei group known as LM.C. Playing a mix of rock and electronic pop, all you have to do is listen to any of their songs to see just what it is that sets them apart from all the other bands. Its hard to define their style exactly but Maya and Aiji, the main part of the group, have labeled themselves New Century Electrorock

After posting the video for Super Duper Galaxy to their Facebook page for several days the video was taken down leaving fans eager to get their hands on the new song. Originally set for a March 30th release, the next single Super Duper Galaxy was pushed back to May 18th after the massive earthquake in Japan.

This is just a small sample of some groups that are releasing music this year. We have plenty more bands to cover so look for Part 2 and possibly a Part 3 coming this weekend.

Concert Experience: Apocalyptica Live at the House of Blues Orlando

Sore feet, ringing ears, and 4 1/2 hours later. It was March 5, 2011 when I left the House of Blues at Downtown Disney in Orlando, Florida feeling as if I had just experienced the best night of my life. Looking back now it's entirely possible I did.


Apocalyptica is here to rock and roll!

I'm talking of course about the concert I went to. Last year when they put their concert dates up it didn't take long for me to grab myself some tickets to their show locally. It was scheduled for November and would be my first concert ever.

Unfortunately it and many other tour dates here in the United States had to be rescheduled due to Perttu falling ill.


Perttu is back!

Thankfully I opted not to go for the refund, since there was no telling when they would be able to get back and tour again in the United States and it was a decision I'll never regret.

We got there to the venue with plenty of time to spare and I made sure to buy a hat and t-shirt at the gift shop in order to qualify for the Pass the Line option offered at some House of Blues concerts.

It still meant more standing around as the doors opened at 8pm instead of 7:30pm as stated on the tickets and website. It wasn't bad though. All one had to think about was the awesome show that was to come.

Rather then stand on the floor and risk not seeing a thing due to some tall patron who would assuredly stand in front of me, I opted for a place at the top of the stairs. Doing so ensured me one of the best views in the house and put me a foot or two about everybody else. Of course unless your a shorter person there is really no "bad" spot to stand at the House of Blues Orlando. Wherever you go or stand it's practically impossible to miss the stage and the railing is a great place to lean up against if you aren't fast enough to grab one of the few (very few) seats dotting the area.



A perfect sheen to accompany a perfect sound

Opening up for Apocalyptica was a band by the name of Stained Angel who had great music and great energy to get the crowd going. I even heard a couple people singing along. The real show, however, was reserved for the four guys we had been waiting months to see.

Apocalyptica.

They opened with a bang and the roar of the crowd nearly drowned out music coming from the massive speakers and amps. Eicca greeted the crowd and asked who had bought their latest album 7th Symphony. A good number of people screamed loudly to show that they had indeed purchased it.

Eicca then proceeded to chastise everyone who hadn't which made everyone laugh. By the way I'm pleased to say I bought mine the day it came out.
Turns out Paavo was the one sick this time around with a cold, but that certainly didn't stop him from rocking harder than anyone else. Aside from Eicca and his epic cello headbanging that is.

They played pretty much all of their songs from the current 7th Symphony album with a few surprises thrown in such as a Master of Puppets a Metallica cover, I'm Not Jesus, and Hall of the Mountain King as their closing song. Tipe Johnson did all the singing and can honestly say that his voice was even better than I had initially expected. His voice was the perfect accompaniment to the amazing cello playing and hard drum beats.

Mikko can drum but he can also... strum the cello?

My favorite moment of the entire night came when Mikko disappeared off stage and then came back holding a cello of his own. Rather than sitting off to the side he joined in and played the song Beautiful with the rest of the band and the crowd stayed quiet until they finished, after which they roared with pleasure and me right along with them.

The cello playing was perfect. The singing by Tipe Johnson was wonderful. We had the privilege of seeing Mikko play the drums and the cello. Eicca started headbanging like it was his last day on earth.

You could even get drinks from the bar and food from the counter if you started getting hungry during the performance. Thankfully despite the copious amounts of beer floating by me in plastic cups and as people walked from the floor to the bar, I never had my toes stepped on or my shirt ruined by a cup tipped to far my way.

Really what more do you need from a concert?

Hall of the Mountain King was the closing song and after a long roar of approval from the crowd Mikko threw his drumsticks to the crowd and all the guys bowed before exiting stage left.

Unfortunately I couldn't stick around to wait for the guys to come back out and maybe take a few pictures with their fans, but that can always happen the next time their in town right?

So if Apocalyptica comes to your city, town, village, or hovel then you must see them live. Failing to do so is practically a criminal offense.

Artist Spotlight: Sandra Alvarenga

Black Veil Brides and Modern Day Escape. Two bands and two sets of fans brought together by the presence of one incomparable drummer.

Sandra Alvarenga.



Sandra is showing the world what real rock and roll is all about

Most people know her as the former drummer for the band Black Veil Brides, but now she has joined forces with Modern Day Escape and is continuing her domination over the rock world.

It's not exactly common to see a female drummer, but that fact hasn't stopped Sandra from playing harder than any guy could ever dream of doing as you can see in this video here.

People can laugh and joke all they want, but don't let her gender or smaller size fool you any. Once Sandra steps up on stage and sits down behind the drums... you had better watch your step. This girl's got mad skills and she's only getting better from here.


Sandra with her boys and brothers as part of the Black Veil Brides


While fans of BVB (Black Veil Brides) are surely sad to see her leave the band, this is hardly the end of her story. In fact this lady's tale is just starting to heat up. With a new album in the works and a cover song of Perfection by MDE (Modern Day Escape) to tantalize fans in the meantime, there is plenty going on to keep her occupied.



Modern Day Escape is preparing for a new album

Another part of Sandra's fame, aside from her beast-like drumming skills, are fans that are positively wild about her. So much so that some are starting to say they've come down with "Sandra Fever".

Whether they're watching her at a concert, sending her photos of themselves in her t-shirts, or asking her for a picture or autograph, one thing is for sure... Sandra Alvarenga sure has herself some loyal fans and they aren't going anywhere. They've made drawings, fan videos, and more in an attempt to reach their favorite musician. Sandra herself has posted "I have the most amazing fans in the world" as her Twitter bio.

Have you seen this girl anywhere?

Truly she has earned her reputation not only as a beast on the drums as her journey with the Black Veil Brides proved, but more recently as the Goddess of Rock. Listen to a song like Heaven's Calling or Perfect Weapon and you'll hear her raging beats pounding along in the background. If Sandra can roar like this during a warm up then you can imagine what she is like live.

While I've never had the pleasure of doing so there are many who have been to see her live at a concert and here's hoping that I will one day be able to do the same.

Two worlds brought together by one person and her legion of loyal fans. We're behind you all the way Sandra Alvarenga and we can't wait to hear the new Modern Day Escape Album and see what else you have in store for us.

If you would like a little piece of history in the making all to yourself, then you can order your Sandra's Back! t-shirt from District Lines right here.



Album Review: Acoustic LIVE! by Adam Lambert

Our favorite glam rocker Adam Lambert has recently released a new EP and fans such as myself are enjoying every second of it. Best described as a vocal masterpiece, this is a mind-blowing live record that is disappointing only by way of the fact that there aren't even more songs for us to enjoy.



Acoustic Live! Quite possible the best live album of the year

Starting off you have Whataya Want From Me? recorded live at ENERGY Berlin radio station 103.4. It is impossible not to be moved by the emotion and feeling that Adam pours into this song. Stripped down from the studio release, this version has only an acoustic guitar to back up Adam Lambert's voice

People of all ages and demographics have fallen in love with this song and the powerful message that it conveys. Adam has even been nominated for a Grammy under the Best Male Pop Vocal Performance category because of this single.

As the song most people are familiar with this was the perfect choice to open the album and you'll be hitting the replay button time and time again.


Whataya Want From Me?



Next on the list is Music Again which was recorded live at Hit Radio FFH. Honestly, I was very curious to see how this would work out as an acoustic song. Using only an acoustic guitar and drums its a rather big change from the electronically infused studio album. It carries the same tempo, but doesn't have the additional vocals of the studio release. This is a beautiful combination and Adam works around it perfectly with alternating soft and strong vocals.

The silence of the radio station setting offers a pure untainted sound and every note comes across crystal clear to the listener. You will definitely be listening to this music again and again and again.



Music has never looked so good



Aftermath is the third song on this album and starts off with the cheering of the crowd on the Glam Nation tour. Yet when the guitar starts playing they respectfully go silent allowing Adam to start singing. This song is so beautiful that words can even begin to describe it. Even non fans will find themselves enjoying this song and gaining a greater respect for the smooth voice and emotion that Adam Lambert can convey with only a few words. His soaring note at 2:57, and at the very end, send the crowd roaring with approval and how can you blame them? 

Speaking of emotion this is the perfect song for anyone who has or is having a bad day. Every verse will help you to appreciate that things really will be all right when things are said and done. Adam Lambert himself was one of the co-writers for this song and every word will strike a powerful cord in you.

After a hard day's work or a rough time in life you'll find yourself reaching for this song and it does a great job of picking you up and lifting your spirits.

Adam and his band members

Soaked follows as the second to last song on the album and the only instrument used is a piano. This is by far my favorite song as Adam's voice shines through like nothing else you have ever heard. Soft at times but with an underlying power that is sure to captivate your attention just as it surely did those attending the concert.

A masterpiece of the highest order is the only way to describe Soaked. Here on this song you will be able to see why it is that so many people around the world have fallen in love with him.

The chorus soars and in the last minute or so of the song there is a pause followed by a couple seconds of singing without the accompaniment of any instruments. An acapella version of Soaked would have been amazing to hear. Maybe next time around Adam will treat us to such a rendition of one of his songs.

What do you think? Tell me if you would like to hear that just as much as I would! 




Glambert's just can't get enough of Adam

  

Last on the album is Mad World. Adam Lambert's sensitive, stripped down performance of this song during his run on American Idol was so good that even sour Simon Cowell himself was moved to give him a standing ovation.

Many consider it to be his best performance of the season and legions of fans were not only disappointed, but angry to see a cover of it excluded on his first album For Your Entertainment. Now they have what they so badly wanted and not only the song, but a live acoustic version of it as well.

As a dedicated fan who was glued to the TV throughout that American Idol season I was greatly surprised when the song started off, not as the slow rendition that Adam had done before, but instead as an uptempo version that will have you tapping your feet, bobbing your head, and singing along to every word.



Glitter, glam, music, and Adam Lambert will make anyone's day



This Acoustic Live! album starts off with a song everyone loves and ends with a bang on an old favorite that fans have been screaming for since he first sang it on the American Idol stage.

Physical copies are being snapped up left and right and the CD + poster combo is flying off the official website. Better get yours fast before it's gone because once they run out there won't be any more made!

With the voice of an angel and the class to back it up, Adam Lambert is an intelligent man who knows just what he wants how how he's going to get there. He was born for success and has more than enough talent to back up his ambitions.

Acoustic Live! is easily the best live album of the year and does not disappoint in any possible way. You have not heard a true singer until you've heard the songs on this album.

It is out now on the official website, iTunes, Amazon, and plenty of other sites. So go out and buy it now!

Album Review: What's My Name by Miyavi

So as many of us know Miyavi's new album What's My Name is now available around the world.

You all know his name!

Like tons of other fans I rushed out to buy an iTunes card the day it was available on iTunes just so that I would be able to download the new album. His videos Survive and Torture were just a small taste of the awesome guitar skills that Miyavi has. It made all of us hungry for more and we were most certainly not disappointed.

Fresh off his Neo Tokyo Samurai Black World Tour and with a Tour Documentary DVD in addition to a new baby girl and album, Miyavi is no doubt on top of the world. His fans consider him the greatest guitarist of his generation if not in the world. Few are those who can rival him and no matter who you are you can't deny his amazing skill with a guitar.



Miyavi is back and he's letting everyone know his name


Miyavi's music has ranged from more pop songs in the past to a more defined rock sound in other years. One thing though was always certain: when it comes to playing the guitar Miyavi is not just on another level, he has his name plastered all over it.

Each song features a unique twist on his own special brand of guitar playing and once you start listening to this album there is no way you'll ever be able to put it down again.

Not a single song disappoints, but be warned that the lyrics can be hard to figure out since they are a mix of Japanese and English. Then again this is Miyavi we're talking about and all things can be understood just by the mention of his name.

This album is pure rock and the first song on the album is called What's My Name and the guitar intro gives you the perfect taste of what is to come on the rest of the album. Following is his second single Torture and then my personal favorite A-Ha. This tune will be stuck in your head all day long and I love it.

Chillin' Chillin' Money Blue$ is the perfect song to chill out to if you've had a rough day at work and the simple but effective melody really does give it a bluesy feel... or is that just me?

His more subdued vocals on I Love You, I Love You, I Love You, and I Hate You perfectly matches the music and sets you up for the next song Moon which will leave you wishing you could see it live so that you would know just how he managed to pull of those guitar riffs.

Gravity seems like a perfectly good ballad... but watch out for Miyavi's sudden scream of "LET ME OUT!" at 4:06 because he'll blow your eardrums right out if your not careful. I'll admit that I prefer the ending of the song to the beginning.

The opening tune to Universe will immediately catch your attention while Unbreakable deviates from the overall theme by opening with the drums first and then adding the guitar after a few seconds.

Shelter is my second favorite song off this album and I could tap out the tune all day long. The combination of guitar and drum set will hook you right away and never let you go.

Super Hero again seems like it will be a nice soft ballad along the lines of Gravity... but then again this is Miyavi we're talking about and something so predictable will not be allowed on his album. This is a rock song all the way, but again you might want to turn down the volume a little when you get to 0:44 seconds as the pause before it is very misleading. I love the guitar playing on here and it again highlights Miyavi's skill and unrivaled precision.

Miyavi once again does the unpredictable by giving us an actual ballad with the song Sutekina Mirai. No sudden screams or sudden change of pace here. This one you can settle back to and turn the volume up without worry.

Fear not, that's no glitch its just the strange but funky opening to Futuristic Love and it will have you bobbing, or banging, your head before Miyavi has even started singing.

Rounding out this album is his first single Survive which sound slightly different and actually heavier then expected. If you bought the single release and then bought the album like I did then you are in for a big surprise. Although it is interesting to see the same song sound so different with just minor adjustments.

Are you ready to rock?

Sometimes weird, always crazy, and never one to let down his fans. We all know his name and this album will ensure that it stays stuck in your head for years to come.

Artist Spotlight: Seven Symphonies With Apocalyptica

Some of you may have heard of them, but chances are some of you have not. That is why I'm here to tell you about the cello rock sensation know as Apocalyptica. That's right... cello rock.

Apocalyptica is taking over the world one concert at a time

It's understandable that a person could hear the opening rifts to a song like Distraction or Misconstruction, both off their recent self-titled album, and mistake those amazing rock beats as guitars instead of cellos.

It is high time a group like this came along and changed our opinions of what is possible with different instrument and with music in general. In my opinion I think it's great that there are groups and artists willing to think out of the box and try styles of music that other people may never have considered before.

Apocalyptica, Nightwish, Within Temptation, Kamelot, Epica, Tarja (solo artist and formerly the vocalist for Nightwish) are only a few such groups who have fused different instruments and genres into a more streamlined modern sound that we know and love to call symphonic rock or symphonic metal. Its different, beautiful, and unlike anything else mainstream today.

Current lineup from left to right: Mikko Sirén/drums, Eicca Toppinen/cello, Perttu Kivilaakso/cello, Paavo Lötjönen/cello

The band itself, though, is composed of classically trained cellists and in 2003 drummer Mikko Sirén was made an official part of the band. Classical music is often looked down upon by the younger generation and a group like Apocalyptica helps bring this genre back to the fore and helps foster an interest in it. Or at the very least it helps generate a deeper respect for this kind of music.

Featuring a slightly different lineup, Apocalyptica got their start by doing Metallica covers at Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Finland. Not long after they then released their first album Plays Metallica by Four Cellos.

Their next album Inquisition featured cover songs by Metallica, Faith No More, Pantera, and Sepultra and is rounded out by three originals by band leader Eicca Toppinen. Following are albums containing mostly original pieces along with a variety of guest singers.

Press shoot for their video End of Me released in July. It features Gavin Rossdale  (third from left)

End of Me is the latest single and comes off their new album 7th Symphony. Gavin Rossdale is only one of the guest appearances on the album and he is better known for being the vocalist for British alternative rock band Bush.

Apocalyptica has been going strong since 1993 and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. They are currently on tour with Japanese metal group Dir En Gray and still have shows scheduled across America in various states. You can check the official website to see if there is a concert near you.

Their new album 7th Symphony comes out today in the United States and can be purchased off iTunes. Buy the deluxe album off iTunes and it will come with 13 songs and 6 live performance videos as well.

7th Symphony is certain to please old and new fans alike as well as provide the unmistakable sound that is undeniably rock but is also subtly fused with classical undertones. This is Apocalyptica and we wouldn't want them any other way.

Album View: Humanoid City LIVE by Tokio Hotel

This time I thought I would do something just a little different and give an album view for the German pop/rock sensation known around the world as Tokio Hotel.

Notice that is album VIEW and not an album REVIEW. There are 19 songs here and not enough blog space to contain my enthusiasm for each one. So I'll just give an overview of the whole thing. Ready?

They are officially the biggest German band ever and they have released several studio albums so far: Schrei, Schrei--so laut du kannst and Zimmer 483 are all in German. The next album Scream is in English and was released outside of the United States as Room 483. Their recent album Humanoid was released in both German and English.

On July 20th however eager fans were finally able to get their hands on the latest release by their favorite German sensation. Humanoid City LIVE, as the title suggests, is a live album that was recorded during the band's concert in Milan, Italy. Anyone who thinks today's song artists can't sing and just have voices that are like nails on a chalk board have evidently never heard Bill Kaulitz sing live. Now you can simply download this album from iTunes or whichever site you prefer, but the actual CD comes packaged with a special DVD showing the entire concert.

It features a special Tokio Hotel TV episode showing what it takes to prepare that massive stage and special display.

Are you ready for an incomparable LIVE experience?

The CD + DVD combo pack is a must have for any fan of this band, for a person who's decided to take a look at the band for the first time, or someone wanting to see some of their new music. The song list is as follows:

1. Noise
2. Human Connect to Human
3. Break Away
4. Pain of Love
5. World Behind My Wall
6. Hey You
7. Alien
8. Ready, Set, Go!
9. Humanoid (German version)
10. Phantomrider
11. Dogs Unleashed
12. Love & Death
13. In Your Shadow I Can Shine
14. Automatic
15. Screamin'
16. Darkside of the Sun
17. Zoom Into Me
18. Monsoon
19. Forever Now

Some songs such as Pain of Love are rearranged slightly and others such as Humanoid are completely changed and done in a more acoustic style. Most of them, however, are the same as fans remember.

This album and DVD gives you a real feel for what it would be like to be in such a massive crowd listening to Tokio Hotel play their hearts out. The cheering and screaming of the fans, the pauses as singer Bill Kaulitz holds up the microphone to let the crowd sing along with him, even Bill thanking all of the fans and then asking them to shut off their camera's and cell phones (excuse me that's "mobile phones" as he says it) and just enjoy the next song as they get ready to perform Phantomrider. Even the flash of fire at the end of Darkside of the Sun although you might not realize what it is until you see the DVD.

It also helps you appreciate just how loud concerts can be. Don't forget to protect your ears everyone! Especially if you are close to the stage!

I was actually wondering how well Bill would do on some of those high notes and falsetto's such as in the chorus of Automatic, but he pulls them all off flawlessly and admirably. Now Bill's voice might sound a bit restrained on some parts of different songs and it certainly does to me at times; kind of like he's not singing as loud or as hard as he could be. That's just might impression and it could be completely wrong.

If it's true then you can't really blame him. He's only 20 years old and he has already had surgery to remove a cyst on his vocal cords once because of constant inflammation and the rigorous schedule they were on. However, even if he is holding back just a tiny bit he still has an astounding voice that few others can compete with. These guys are taking a break after their European tour but they still have a lot of concerts afterwards so its good to see them going on vacation no matter how short that may be.

Let's get back to the album though. Noise has a noticeably longer intro and is the perfect song to open the concert. It easily gets the crowd pumped up and excited for what is to come it has. Slightly older favorites such as Break Away and Ready, Set, Go! off their album Scream are included as well and help you appreciate just how far these four Germans have come since then.

The lyrics to World Behind My Wall are filled with depth and emotion while Dogs Unleashed, actually written about Bill and Tom's own pet dogs, is a great track and helps show the love they have for all animals. So much so that the twins have turned vegetarian and all the outfits that you see Bill wearing during the concert on the DVD are made from fake leather.

Next up you have a powerful beat and lyrics that no one can resist. Yes, I'm talking about Darkside of the Sun with Sonnensystem being its German counterpart. This is my favorite song off the recent Humanoid album besides World Behind My Wall and I was so happy that they made it their latest single as you can see by this video here.

A song I really looked forward to listening to is In Your Shadow I Can Shine. This song was only available when you purchased the Humanoid (English) CD from Hot Topic stores. If you are like me and did not get one of those CD's then this is your chance to hear it in all its glory. This is a beautiful song and Bill's vocal are soft, sweet, powerful, and touching. This is a song right up there with World Behind My Wall and it really helps highlight their song writing skills. People can say what they want about these, but listen to these lyrics and there is no denying that every song Tokio Hotel performs has meaning and depth to the lyrics and words.

Closing out the Humanoid City LIVE album is Forever Now and is the perfect song to close the concert just as Noise was the perfect song to open. Bill sings like never before and thanks the crowd and the fans for coming out before jumping right back into the song again. One verse says that "I will never let you down" and we can all be sure that Tokio Hotel will continue to put out great music and put on amazing, heart stopping, tear jerking performances for all of us.

All of this doesn't accurately describe just how good this LIVE album is however. I've never been one for LIVE CD's or tracks, but this one has certainly turned my opinion around.

So what's my favorite song? Well, I can't name a single one, but rather In Your Shadow I Can Shine, Darkside of The Sun, Pain of Love, and Forever Now really stand out to me and are my personal preferences.

For die hard fans such as myself there is no question as to whether or not you are getting this album. However, if you've only seen or heard of Tokio Hotel in passing then this is certainly the place to start if your looking to get your feet wet. If you weren't thrilled by their previous music (although I can't imagine why you wouldn't be) then you'll most certainly be impressed by the different and more electronic/rock sound that most of these new songs offer.

Humanoid City LIVE is the album and you can find it in stores around the world. So if Tokio Hotel comes to a city near you then buy yourself a ticket to the show because it is one band and one sound that you will most certainly never forget.

Stick Them in a Room and See What Happens

You know it's always interesting when two totally different bands or singers get together and just hang out, or if they happen to meet each other backstage at a show.

Learning about which fellow song artists and bands they admire in turn is also interesting because it gives you a better look into their lives. It helps you appreciate them more and see them as people, not just icons standing up on a stage somewhere.

So what would happen if you stuck a couple song artists like Justin Bieber, Adam Lambert, and the group Boys Like Girls in a room together? Apparently they will gather out in the hallway and practice their "gangsta" handshakes.

No joke.

Don't believe me? Well I don't blame you. If you must have proof however, then just check out the YouTube video I saw yesterday yesterday. They were all participating in Jingle Ball for the radio station KDWB. The whole thing is hilarious by way of its sheer randomness.

Then we have Tennessee born Miley Cyrus the former Hannah Montana star and still raging pre-teen sensation regardless of whether you like her or not. On the other side Tokio Hotel. Four guys from Germany who were nominated for Best New Artist at the 2008 Video Music Awards. They still carried admittedly thick (but very cute) accents and have quickly and officially become the biggest German band ever.

Stick them all together and what happens? A rather interesting Rock Band 2 session with drummer Gustav Schafer on the....um... drums and singer Bill Kaulitz on the guitar. Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus belted out Livin on a Prayer by Bon Jovi while Georg Listing and Tom Kaulitz stood off to the side looking decidedly amused as she bounced around.

You can watch the video here on YouTube of course.

This was backstage at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards so it was only a few seconds before host Russel Brand came, chewed her out as well as chastising her for "leading them astray" them being the guys of Tokio Hotel of course. The video ends as she prepares to introduce P!nk.

Next we have the Jonas Brothers. I'm not exactly a fan of their music and never will be, but I did happen across a short interview clip where they explain who they would like to go on tour with.

Now who could that be? None other then Tokio Hotel. Just check out the interview and see for yourself. Apparently its a dream of theirs. Not exactly sure TH fans would appreciate the overture but I'm not here to settle wars I'm just stating the facts.

Of course there are the fan videos too. One is Rhianna offering her "Umbrella" to Bill so that he can make it through the "Monsoon".

Get it?

You know because she made that song Umbrella and Tokio Hotel did Monsoon....

Never mind. Moving on.

The point is that it is always interesting to see music artists interacting with each other. Besides collaborations and duets I mean. It is these random moments that allow us to see what our favorite artists are really like when their able to relax and just be themselves.

My favorites being Adam Lambert and Tokio Hotel of course. I know you'll get a kick out of the first video at least so be sure to check it and the others out too!