If you didn’t catch AWOLNATION on the road in 2011, you are in luck because the band has released a 2011 Tour Yearbook, which documents their year of touring. The clip features a remix of “Burn It Down” by Innerpartysystem, which can be downloaded for free via a Tweet to Download. AWOLNATION has also given you, Shockya readers, another chance to see them work their indie-electronic magic live. The Aaron Bruno fronted outfit will be performing at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Sunday, April 14th and 21st in Indio CA, alongside such artists as Radiohead, Noel Gallagher, Feist, Kasabian and The Shins. Prior to Coachella, AWOLNATION will be going...
With the upcoming release of their debut album, “I Waited For You”, Valora will redefine the male ego. The alternative rock genre is in dire need of this shake-up. The music industry doesn’t yearn for a band that can deliver a Daughtry hit, followed by a Nickelback hit, a Foo Fighters’ hit and topped off with the ultimate mimic, a Nirvana hit. The industry needs originality and what better way to spice up the bland rock stew than with some female flavoring? Shockya readers, say hello to the ultimate alternative ingredient, Syd Duran. Don’t worry, she is not a duplicate of Paramore’s Hayley Williams. Duran will not simply dismiss the...
The recipe to make a successful party song doesn’t consist of a laundry list of ingredients. You should take a listen to LMFAO’s slew of hit singles to understand the simplicity of it. Despite the few track requirements, there are handfuls of party tunes that fail to accomplish the dapper duo’s mastery. Whether it be an unimpressive hook, unmemorable beats or choppy verses, these lackluster tracks are far from contagious. LMFAO triumphed over the competition in 2011, but Far East Movement may surpass the party kings in 2012 with their new single, “Jello”, featuring Rye Rye. The Los Angeles electro-hip hop group just released the official music video for “Jello”....
Rapper and NCIS: Los Angeles actor LL Cool J has been confirmed as the host of this year’s Grammy Awards. The news was announced this past Wednesday by the Recording Academy, marking the Academy’s first host for the big event in seven years. Set to perform at the awards night is singer Jason Aldean, pop star Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, The Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars and rapper Nicki Minaj. Singer Kanye West is currently leading the night’s nominations in seven categories, along with the Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars, and Adele. A two-time Grammy Award winner, LL Cool J announced his happiness over taking on the hosting duties for the night....
Read our exclusive interview with actress and singer Allie Gonino, who is presently starring as Laurel Mercer on the acclaimed ABC Family teen drama series ‘The Lying Game,’ which is currently airing the second half of its first season. The show, which is based on the series of books of the same name by Sara Shepard, follows foster child Emma Becker, played by Alexandra Chando, as she finds out she has an identical twin sister, Sutton. The girls were separated at birth, and Sutton was adopted by wealthy parents and has a seemingly ideal life, including an adoptive sister, Laurel. Sutton convinces Emma to step into her life for a...
Yesterday, ShockYa reported on the music video for Blink-182′s newest single, “After Midnight.” Today, the behind-the-scenes video of the making of the film has been released on AOL Music. According to the press release, director Isaac Rentz said the music video, which is about troubled lovers in a psychiatric ward who break free to spend an incredible night together, is a little like the 1980s film “Ferris Beuller’s Day Off.” “It’s that idea of one person trying to help another person to live life,” he said. “It’s almost like ‘Ferris Beuller’s Day Off’ in that they have this one night to have a great time together.” Aside from seeing the...
Fans of the legendary rock band Van Halen seem to define the rock band before David Lee Roth and after Roth left the group. For those who have been clamoring for the band–the full band–to get back together and forget their differences, it would seem that your prayers have been answered. Van Halen have been hard at work on their newest CD, “A Different Kind of Truth,” their first original studio album with David Lee Roth since the classic multi-platinum album “1984.” The band has also released their video for their new single, “Tattoo.” The video can be viewed either below the post or at VEVO.com. The album is also...
Blink-182 fans, if you haven’t heard that your favorite band has a new video out, then think of this post as your wake-up call. The pop-punk band has released the music video for the second single from “Neighborhoods,” “After Midnight.” The video was directed by Isaac Rentz, and according to Mark Hoppus, “the concept [of the video] is troubled love found in a psych ward.” You can watch the video below this post. Also, a behind-the-scenes video on “After Midnight” will be out on AOL Music Thursday. I’m sure if you love seeing how a music video comes together, you’ll love seeing the details that went into the making of...
According to a recent survey in “Car and Driver,” texting while driving is more dangerous than operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and those who send text messages while driving are 23 times more likely to be in a car crash. While she fortunately hasn’t been one of those statistics, singer JoJo (http://twitter.com/JoJoistheway) felt strongly enough about the issue to step up and encourage her fans to take part in AT&T’s “It Can Wait” pledge to stop texting while driving. Recently, ShockYa had a chance to talk to the 21-year-old — who has sold more than three million albums worldwide – about why she’s involved in the campaign,...
Ever since it was announced that Beyoncé had given birth to her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, the Twittersphere and blogosphere have been alight with reactions, jokes, and even music. Let’s take a look at how the internet responded to the joyous news. -Blue Ivy’s father, Jay-Z, released a song on SoundCloud called “Glory.” The song also features Blue Ivy’s voice. You can listen to it here. -Seconds after it was announced what Beyoncé and Jay-Z named their daughter, Twitter hashtags #IvyBlue and #NamesBetterThanIvyBlue were created, with tons of people making jokes about the baby’s name. Of course, these hashtags were created when it was still thought that the baby’s name...
Rapper Snoop Dogg has been arrested in Texas for possession of marijuana. The well known singer was busted after a drug sniffing dog picked up the scent of weed on his tour bus. Snoop Dogg, who just recently showed up on the long time game show, Price is Right, was stopped at a patrol check point in Sierra Blanca, a small town located in West Texas. Snoop Dogg’s arrest happened over the weekend on Saturday morning after police uncovered three prescription bottles filled with marijuana cigarettes, per CNN. According to a statement released from the Hudspeth County Sheriff’s office, the rapper “freely admitted” that the drugs were his. The news...
Check out TeraBrite’s kick-butt pop punk cover of Taylor Swift’s “Safe & Sound” off of the soundtrack of the upcoming film “The Hunger Games” stars Liam Hemsworth, Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Josh Hutcherson, Willow Shields, Woody Harrelson and Stanley Tucci. Click Here to check out our photo gallery from The Hunger Games. Synopsis: In a not-too-distant future, North America has collapsed, weakened by drought, fire, famine, and war, to be replaced by Panem, a country divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the...
With the 2011 album countdowns officially over, there is now enough room for the music of 2012 to come on through. As with every year, the top ten albums competition is stiff, but that only means good news for listeners who are provided with a wide variety of genres to choose amongst. What will you pick for your 2012 lists? You are probably quite unsure of your choices right now, but The All-American Rejects upcoming album, “Kids In The Street”, will be a given contender. The DGC/Interscope recording artists will digitally release the first track, “Beekeeper’s Daughter”, off their fourth studio album on January 24th. Written by lead singer, lyricist...
Casey Desmond is probably a name you have heard more than once this year, especially if you watched “The Voice”. The Boston native was a part of Adam Levine’s team, which also consisted of “The Voice” winner, Javier Colon. Unfortunately, the singer, songwriter and musician was sent home by Levine after she battled teammate, Jeff Jenkins, on Elton John’s “Don’t Let Sun Go Down On Me”. You only temporarily had to say goodbye to Desmond that night in May because in 2012, she will be releasing a new studio album. Yes, Desmond will frequently be associated with “The Voice”, but her 2012 album will also showcase her game-shifting sound abilities...
Beloved rapper Heavy D was one of the celebrity casualties of this year. The news of his death rocked the music industry, but the speculation about how he died was also something that took over the mindspace of the entertainment news industry. According to a post by Entertainment Weekly, a coroner has finally given the cause of death. According to Entertainment Weekly, there was not just one cause, but several causes. According to the coroner’s report, Heavy D died from a pulmonary embolism–a condition that is blockage of the main artery to the lungs– as well as a deep leg-vein thrombosis–a condition that causes blood clots to form–as well as...
If you didn’t catch AWOLNATION on the road in 2011, you are in luck because the band has released a 2011 Tour Yearbook, which documents their year of touring. The clip features a remix of “Burn It Down” by Innerpartysystem, which can be downloaded for free via a Tweet to Download. AWOLNATION has also given you, Shockya readers, another chance to see them work their indie-electronic magic live. The Aaron Bruno fronted outfit will be performing at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Sunday, April 14th and 21st in Indio CA, alongside such artists as Radiohead, Noel Gallagher, Feist, Kasabian and The Shins. Prior to Coachella, AWOLNATION will be going...
With the upcoming release of their debut album, “I Waited For You”, Valora will redefine the male ego. The alternative rock genre is in dire need of this shake-up. The music industry doesn’t yearn for a band that can deliver a Daughtry hit, followed by a Nickelback hit, a Foo Fighters’ hit and topped off with the ultimate mimic, a Nirvana hit. The industry needs originality and what better way to spice up the bland rock stew than with some female flavoring? Shockya readers, say hello to the ultimate alternative ingredient, Syd Duran. Don’t worry, she is not a duplicate of Paramore’s Hayley Williams. Duran will not simply dismiss the...
The recipe to make a successful party song doesn’t consist of a laundry list of ingredients. You should take a listen to LMFAO’s slew of hit singles to understand the simplicity of it. Despite the few track requirements, there are handfuls of party tunes that fail to accomplish the dapper duo’s mastery. Whether it be an unimpressive hook, unmemorable beats or choppy verses, these lackluster tracks are far from contagious. LMFAO triumphed over the competition in 2011, but Far East Movement may surpass the party kings in 2012 with their new single, “Jello”, featuring Rye Rye. The Los Angeles electro-hip hop group just released the official music video for “Jello”....
Rapper and NCIS: Los Angeles actor LL Cool J has been confirmed as the host of this year’s Grammy Awards. The news was announced this past Wednesday by the Recording Academy, marking the Academy’s first host for the big event in seven years. Set to perform at the awards night is singer Jason Aldean, pop star Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, The Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars and rapper Nicki Minaj. Singer Kanye West is currently leading the night’s nominations in seven categories, along with the Foo Fighters, Bruno Mars, and Adele. A two-time Grammy Award winner, LL Cool J announced his happiness over taking on the hosting duties for the night....
Yesterday, ShockYa reported on the music video for Blink-182′s newest single, “After Midnight.” Today, the behind-the-scenes video of the making of the film has been released on AOL Music. According to the press release, director Isaac Rentz said the music video, which is about troubled lovers in a psychiatric ward who break free to spend an incredible night together, is a little like the 1980s film “Ferris Beuller’s Day Off.” “It’s that idea of one person trying to help another person to live life,” he said. “It’s almost like ‘Ferris Beuller’s Day Off’ in that they have this one night to have a great time together.” Aside from seeing the...
Fans of the legendary rock band Van Halen seem to define the rock band before David Lee Roth and after Roth left the group. For those who have been clamoring for the band–the full band–to get back together and forget their differences, it would seem that your prayers have been answered. Van Halen have been hard at work on their newest CD, “A Different Kind of Truth,” their first original studio album with David Lee Roth since the classic multi-platinum album “1984.” The band has also released their video for their new single, “Tattoo.” The video can be viewed either below the post or at VEVO.com. The album is also...
Blink-182 fans, if you haven’t heard that your favorite band has a new video out, then think of this post as your wake-up call. The pop-punk band has released the music video for the second single from “Neighborhoods,” “After Midnight.” The video was directed by Isaac Rentz, and according to Mark Hoppus, “the concept [of the video] is troubled love found in a psych ward.” You can watch the video below this post. Also, a behind-the-scenes video on “After Midnight” will be out on AOL Music Thursday. I’m sure if you love seeing how a music video comes together, you’ll love seeing the details that went into the making of...
Ever since it was announced that Beyoncé had given birth to her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, the Twittersphere and blogosphere have been alight with reactions, jokes, and even music. Let’s take a look at how the internet responded to the joyous news. -Blue Ivy’s father, Jay-Z, released a song on SoundCloud called “Glory.” The song also features Blue Ivy’s voice. You can listen to it here. -Seconds after it was announced what Beyoncé and Jay-Z named their daughter, Twitter hashtags #IvyBlue and #NamesBetterThanIvyBlue were created, with tons of people making jokes about the baby’s name. Of course, these hashtags were created when it was still thought that the baby’s name...
Rapper Snoop Dogg has been arrested in Texas for possession of marijuana. The well known singer was busted after a drug sniffing dog picked up the scent of weed on his tour bus. Snoop Dogg, who just recently showed up on the long time game show, Price is Right, was stopped at a patrol check point in Sierra Blanca, a small town located in West Texas. Snoop Dogg’s arrest happened over the weekend on Saturday morning after police uncovered three prescription bottles filled with marijuana cigarettes, per CNN. According to a statement released from the Hudspeth County Sheriff’s office, the rapper “freely admitted” that the drugs were his. The news...
With the 2011 album countdowns officially over, there is now enough room for the music of 2012 to come on through. As with every year, the top ten albums competition is stiff, but that only means good news for listeners who are provided with a wide variety of genres to choose amongst. What will you pick for your 2012 lists? You are probably quite unsure of your choices right now, but The All-American Rejects upcoming album, “Kids In The Street”, will be a given contender. The DGC/Interscope recording artists will digitally release the first track, “Beekeeper’s Daughter”, off their fourth studio album on January 24th. Written by lead singer, lyricist...
Casey Desmond is probably a name you have heard more than once this year, especially if you watched “The Voice”. The Boston native was a part of Adam Levine’s team, which also consisted of “The Voice” winner, Javier Colon. Unfortunately, the singer, songwriter and musician was sent home by Levine after she battled teammate, Jeff Jenkins, on Elton John’s “Don’t Let Sun Go Down On Me”. You only temporarily had to say goodbye to Desmond that night in May because in 2012, she will be releasing a new studio album. Yes, Desmond will frequently be associated with “The Voice”, but her 2012 album will also showcase her game-shifting sound abilities...
Beloved rapper Heavy D was one of the celebrity casualties of this year. The news of his death rocked the music industry, but the speculation about how he died was also something that took over the mindspace of the entertainment news industry. According to a post by Entertainment Weekly, a coroner has finally given the cause of death. According to Entertainment Weekly, there was not just one cause, but several causes. According to the coroner’s report, Heavy D died from a pulmonary embolism–a condition that is blockage of the main artery to the lungs– as well as a deep leg-vein thrombosis–a condition that causes blood clots to form–as well as...
Hip-hop music has gotten a bit jagged with the technological advances in music production. In no way is jagged meant as an insult, but there are times, where hip-hop and rap would sound more appealing if the hard tempo beats were replaced with sleeker ones. These genres were originally meant for artists to battle each other on who had more flow, but have now adapted to who can drop the bigger beat. Thankfully for La Coka Nostra, hip-hop will be able to revert back to the ways of velvetiness. The La Coka Nostra super-crew, which consists of Everlast, DJ Lethal, Danny Boy and Ill Bille and Slaine, have re-surfaced just...
With 2011 coming to an end, you should prepare to be flooded with countdowns from the year’s top movies to the top music videos. Yes, some of these lists are entirely trivial, but they are also short and sweet and sum up a year in less than five minutes. A trivial list in this context would be the top ten reality stars, which is a completely unnecessary countdown since a Kardashian is at every number. You, Shockya readers, deserve an unpredictable list that can benefit you, not make you wish you could be famous for doing absolutely nothing. So, open up your iTunes and get ready to purchase the Top...
On the ShockYa list for the Top Ten Albums of 2011, which is coming soon, is AWOLNATION’s “Megalithic Symphony”. The 14 track debut album, which dropped March 15th via Red Bull Records, blended the indie rock vocals of Aaron Bruno with an electronic tempo. These synthesized background beats are complex and take to the darker side of the electronica genre. Pop-techno may not be everybody’s calling, but with albums like “Megalithic Symphony”, rock-techno could be the genre to proudly convert those to the eletronica side. So, thanks AWOLNATION for opening up the music doors to fans of more than one genre. Double that thanks because AWOL has given you a...
If you didn’t catch AWOLNATION on the road in 2011, you are in luck because the band has released a 2011 Tour Yearbook, which documents their year of touring. The clip features a remix of “Burn It Down” by Innerpartysystem, which can be downloaded for free via a Tweet to Download. AWOLNATION has also given you, Shockya readers, another chance to see them work their indie-electronic magic live. The Aaron Bruno fronted outfit will be performing at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Sunday, April 14th and 21st in Indio CA, alongside such artists as Radiohead, Noel Gallagher, Feist, Kasabian and The Shins. Prior to Coachella, AWOLNATION will be going...
The recipe to make a successful party song doesn’t consist of a laundry list of ingredients. You should take a listen to LMFAO’s slew of hit singles to understand the simplicity of it. Despite the few track requirements, there are handfuls of party tunes that fail to accomplish the dapper duo’s mastery. Whether it be an unimpressive hook, unmemorable beats or choppy verses, these lackluster tracks are far from contagious. LMFAO triumphed over the competition in 2011, but Far East Movement may surpass the party kings in 2012 with their new single, “Jello”, featuring Rye Rye. The Los Angeles electro-hip hop group just released the official music video for “Jello”....
Yesterday, ShockYa reported on the music video for Blink-182′s newest single, “After Midnight.” Today, the behind-the-scenes video of the making of the film has been released on AOL Music. According to the press release, director Isaac Rentz said the music video, which is about troubled lovers in a psychiatric ward who break free to spend an incredible night together, is a little like the 1980s film “Ferris Beuller’s Day Off.” “It’s that idea of one person trying to help another person to live life,” he said. “It’s almost like ‘Ferris Beuller’s Day Off’ in that they have this one night to have a great time together.” Aside from seeing the...
Fans of the legendary rock band Van Halen seem to define the rock band before David Lee Roth and after Roth left the group. For those who have been clamoring for the band–the full band–to get back together and forget their differences, it would seem that your prayers have been answered. Van Halen have been hard at work on their newest CD, “A Different Kind of Truth,” their first original studio album with David Lee Roth since the classic multi-platinum album “1984.” The band has also released their video for their new single, “Tattoo.” The video can be viewed either below the post or at VEVO.com. The album is also...
Blink-182 fans, if you haven’t heard that your favorite band has a new video out, then think of this post as your wake-up call. The pop-punk band has released the music video for the second single from “Neighborhoods,” “After Midnight.” The video was directed by Isaac Rentz, and according to Mark Hoppus, “the concept [of the video] is troubled love found in a psych ward.” You can watch the video below this post. Also, a behind-the-scenes video on “After Midnight” will be out on AOL Music Thursday. I’m sure if you love seeing how a music video comes together, you’ll love seeing the details that went into the making of...
Check out TeraBrite’s kick-butt pop punk cover of Taylor Swift’s “Safe & Sound” off of the soundtrack of the upcoming film “The Hunger Games” stars Liam Hemsworth, Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Josh Hutcherson, Willow Shields, Woody Harrelson and Stanley Tucci. Click Here to check out our photo gallery from The Hunger Games. Synopsis: In a not-too-distant future, North America has collapsed, weakened by drought, fire, famine, and war, to be replaced by Panem, a country divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the...
Hip-hop music has gotten a bit jagged with the technological advances in music production. In no way is jagged meant as an insult, but there are times, where hip-hop and rap would sound more appealing if the hard tempo beats were replaced with sleeker ones. These genres were originally meant for artists to battle each other on who had more flow, but have now adapted to who can drop the bigger beat. Thankfully for La Coka Nostra, hip-hop will be able to revert back to the ways of velvetiness. The La Coka Nostra super-crew, which consists of Everlast, DJ Lethal, Danny Boy and Ill Bille and Slaine, have re-surfaced just...
Listen to Taylor Swift perform “Safe and Sound” from the soundtrack of the upcoming film “The Hunger Games” stars Liam Hemsworth, Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Josh Hutcherson, Willow Shields, Woody Harrelson and Stanley Tucci. Click Here to check out our photo gallery from The Hunger Games. Synopsis: In a not-too-distant future, North America has collapsed, weakened by drought, fire, famine, and war, to be replaced by Panem, a country divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal intimidation of the subjugated districts, the televised games are broadcasted throughout Panem...
On the ShockYa list for the Top Ten Albums of 2011, which is coming soon, is AWOLNATION’s “Megalithic Symphony”. The 14 track debut album, which dropped March 15th via Red Bull Records, blended the indie rock vocals of Aaron Bruno with an electronic tempo. These synthesized background beats are complex and take to the darker side of the electronica genre. Pop-techno may not be everybody’s calling, but with albums like “Megalithic Symphony”, rock-techno could be the genre to proudly convert those to the eletronica side. So, thanks AWOLNATION for opening up the music doors to fans of more than one genre. Double that thanks because AWOL has given you a...
Dying your hair bleach blonde in the music industry could have you looking too much like Lady Gaga. While sporting a black do could cross you into the Katy Perry zone, before her blonde and pink days. So, with both extreme coloring styles covered, there is only one route to take that is more dramatic, the path of Cruella De Ville, which leads straight to Porcelain Black. Does this Cruella De Ville comparison sound a bit too familiar? Well, congratulations you avid Shockya readers because you are right. Porcelain Black has graced the page before and this post is far from her last. The pop and rock singer paid a...
Valora is the band to watch for in 2012 and all you misunderstood teenagers should prepare to clear out your playlists to make room for the female fronted group’s tunes. As discussed in prior posts, Valora will replace the angst sound of Paramore. Well, the Paramore before they became tainted by fame. Every generation of girls deserves to have music console their insecurities and Valora will be that source of comfort for the females of 2012. So, take advantage of the remaining 2011 days and get acquainted with Syd Duran and the rest of Valora by checking out PunkVideosRock.com chat with the outfit. Valora discusses the formation of the band,...
Christmas tunes are a way for undisclosed Britney Spears fans to listen to their guilty pleasure music with reason. No one can deny liking Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You”, but you might want to keep enjoying the “Glitter” soundtrack to yourselves. Get it? Christmas music allows you to press play on those cheesy tunes in public. The latest artist to embrace the holiday spirit is the legendary songwriter and musician Richard Marx. Since his string of top five hits in the late 1980s and early 1990s, he has written and recorded hit after hit with artists like Josh Groban, N’Sync, Lifehouse and more, winning a Grammy...
The giveaway of all giveaways is here and it entails the latest release from the king of darkness, the documentary “God Bless Ozzy Osbourne”. Shot over the course of three years, “God Bless Ozzy Osbourne” allows audiences to experience the life story of Ozzy, as seen through the eyes of his youngest child, producer and filmmaker, Jack Osbourne, who worked alongside directors Mike Fleiss and Mike Piscitelli. The film recounts his troubled youth, his early career with Black Sabbath, the impact of fame and addictions on his first marriage and his life as a family man with Sharon. “God Bless Ozzy Osbourne” also includes his children explaining his attempt at...
YouTube has signed another artist. Well, indirectly of course. The video-sharing website has “inked” the deal between Defiler and Stillborn Records for the re-issuing of “Pangaea”. The metal outfit, which consists of vocalist, Jake Pelzl, guitarist, Ethan Lewis and drummer, Ian Poole, garnered over 1.25 million YouTube views of their first ever music video for “Cryomancer”. The angst of metal is prevalent in this video, but so is the hidden heartbreak that fuels the aggression. Metal heads are just like any person searching for their ultimate lover; they just choose to express their tears in rage. “Cryomancer” is off of the band’s debut album, “Pangaea”, which was released as a...
Little Monsters had their palettes whetted with the teaser trailer and “The Prelude Pathétique” clip from the upcoming Lady Gaga video “Marry the Night.” Thursday, December 1, is when fans will finally get to see the oft-tweeted about music video. The 13-minute video will be the directorial debut for Gaga and will air exclusively on E! the night of December 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The video will then be run throughout the weekend as part of a half-hour special that includes an exclusive interview with the singer/performer. The video for “Marry the Night” will also be available for viewing on Eonline.com Thursday night as well as through VEVO and...
With 2011 coming to an end, you should prepare to be flooded with countdowns from the year’s top movies to the top music videos. Yes, some of these lists are entirely trivial, but they are also short and sweet and sum up a year in less than five minutes. A trivial list in this context would be the top ten reality stars, which is a completely unnecessary countdown since a Kardashian is at every number. You, Shockya readers, deserve an unpredictable list that can benefit you, not make you wish you could be famous for doing absolutely nothing. So, open up your iTunes and get ready to purchase the Top...
Maturity changes people’s music tastes. Around the tender teenage years, you get the love struck teens who prefer to remain loyal ‘N SYNC fans or those who drift the way of Dashboard Confessional. This transition takes place in the 90s, but the same goes for the 21st Century youngins who stick with Bieber and those who move to Daughtry. If you take the darker and at times, more distributed route, the hidden Bieber or ‘N SYNC fan within you will still expose itself every so often. You shouldn’t be embarrassed by this disclosure, but if you are well passed the midlife crisis age, maybe you should listen to Selena Gomez...
Hollywood Undead is a rap rock or nu metal group that hails from Los Angeles, California. They formed in 2005 and have produced two albums. “Swan Songs” dropped in 2008, via A&M/Octone Records; “American Tragedy” in April of that same year. The members, who go by Charlie Scene, Da Kurlzz, Danny, Funny Man, J-Dog, and Johnny 3 Tears, take their individuality to the next level with their trademark masks. Donned in metallic and colorful masks, Hollywood Undead brought their dual genre magic to Roseland Ballroom on November 11th. With the opening track, “Undead”, the crowd’s energy exploded. The audience moved along to the music with hands high up in the...
The album may have dropped a little while back, but it is just too classic to not inform you Shockya readers about. You should insert rock after classic because this album is from the former Uriah Heep member, Ken Hensley. The keyboard player, Hammond organ player, guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer joined forces with Norway’s Live Fire in 2006 and recorded the album, “Faster”, over a three-week period in Riga, Latvia. The 12 track album dropped June 21st via Eagle Rock Entertainment. Hence, the “while back”, but good music is good music and deserves to be reviewed. Hensley’s music background is rooted in a time period where rock was evolving...
The wait is finally over. We should put extra emphasis on that wait because it is referring to the eight years we went without a new Jane’s Addiction studio album. We tried covering up the music void with tunes from an array of alternative rock bands, but the tracks only proved to be a temporary fix. Nothing hits our psychedelic cravings like Jane’s Addiction songs. So, it’s goodbye to the posers and hello again to the rock legends, Perry Farrell, Dave Navarro and Stephen Perkins. Before we dive into our analysis of the band’s fourth studio album, we just want to get one thing straight. Of course, the trio’s sound...
We have self-diagnosed ourselves with music ADD. The “medical” condition involves the urge to change a song right after you just pushed play on it. We don’t blame the artists for failing to hold our attention, we blame our uncontrolled need to soak in as many genres we possibly can. The good news is that we found a cure that does not involve pill popping. The solution is listening to tribute albums. These compilation records have an overall theme that is covered in a variety of ways. Let’s take a look at the album, “A Tribute From Friends”, to better explain our music ADD remedy. The M.O.B (Mick Fleetwood, Steven...
“Forever Abomination” is the fourth installment in the Skeletonwitch discography. It is also the first to feature their brand new drummer Dustin Boltjes who replaced former drummer Derrick Nau or what he liked to be called “Mullet Chad”. As such “Forever Abomination” has lived up to its two previous releases “Breathing the Fire” (2009) and “Beyond the Permafrost” (2007). Thus this release exceeds the meaning of “metal”. Guitarist Scott Hedrick says “We live and breathe this shit!” “We tour as much as humanly possible, and when we’re home we write. There’s technically no such thing as ‘time off’ when you’re in The ‘WITCH”. This of course lives up to its...
There is always that “one” that “one” album that is indeed without a doubt “the best to date”. Surly this can said about Blessthefall’s first ever debut LP “His Last Walk” with former frontman Craig Mabbit who brought Blessthefall to the forefront of the music scene before departing to join forces with Escape The Fate in 2008. Blessthefall saw that their time seemed bleak and raw but went onward to release two more albums “Witness” and now their third LP to date “Awakening” seems to fall short of their first release. The fast grinding guitar structure, powerful heartfelt lyrics, screaming coals are all fun and good filling but the quality...
Usually, the autumn days have us thickening our clothing layers with a dismal expression on our faces, but this fall we think our frowns will be permanently flipped around. We credit our surge of optimism to Grace Potter and The Nocturnals. We got to check out the genre-fusing band on Saturday night, September 24th, at Rumsey Playfield Central Park and the night was magical. That description might sound a bit corny, but Grace Potter and The Nocturnals remind us just why we fell for music in the first place. We have had the band’s 2010 self-titled album on constant replay for the past year, but seeing them perform the tracks...
It’s time for us to thank those overly produced tracks that we frequently hear on the radio. We know that’s an odd statement to make, but it’s true. If you take a listen to music that avoids auto-tune and synthesized beats, you will appreciate it more than you would have if those technological advances never existed. So, yes these ‘improvements’ have tarnished a handful of music, but have made authentic music sound even purer. We guess we can apply the Yin Yang belief to the music world. The auto-society has indirectly given birth to Anthony Scuderi. The elementary school music teacher and band director has implemented his skills as a...
One year ago former I Am Ghost frontman Steven Juliano fronted Epitaph Record’s most talked about bands over the course of their 6 year career. During which they got signed to Epitaph one year after their formation, got their jump start from their EP ‘We Are Always Searching” which sprung three studio albums 2006′s “Lovers’ Requiem”, 2008’s “Those We Leave Behind”, and 2009′s “LIVE in Orange County”. Things were running in accordance to the band’s success factor and everything they had gained would soon be lost. One year after their live LP was released in 2009, Juliano would break the news of the band’s departure. According to him he says...
Phoenix Arizonans’ The Attitude got their start in 2005 following their formation two years later their debut EP “Straight To The Middle” struck and then touring commenced. Once that was said and done the band went off to write and record material for their follow-up a brand new EP titled “Dance Fuck Suicide”. This EP was 4 years in the making and now that it’s been completed the results are flawless. “Dance Fuck Suicide” is a continuation of “Straight To The Middle” on this release the album includes 4 album tracks “Burn”, and “Like Rats”, which had been previously demoed but never released until now. While “Dance Fuck Suicide”, “Own...
Literally, playing. Backstage. On a make-shift basketball court. And it’s a good thing we found a sturdy stick to replace part of the hoop that was busted or none of what you’re about to read would have been published. Usually post-coverage for a major event such as the 2011 Rockstar Energy Drink UPROAR Festival will encompass a little bit of everything from the show. But in Tampa, Florida, coverage was left up to how many times a ball went through a hoop. While doing an interview with Black Tide drummer Steven Spence, my research prior to yapping with the 23 year-old revealed the guys out of Miami, Florida bring a...
We have frequently compared compilation albums to history textbooks. Both keep the dated information they harbor relevant from one generation to the next. Cover albums also serve a similar role, but we find their impact on society to be much more influential than that of “greatest hits” albums. These cover tunes prove that music is constantly on the move, but the sounds defined by past artists are never left behind. The lyrics and basic melodies of these songs remind us of the original bands that wrote them, but listeners can also hear beats and vocals that resemble music of the current decade. A single physical object can radiate magic from...
The 21st Century has just given birth to another genre of music. Yes, it is true that most of these new categories are combinations of pre-existing ones, but as long as the sound flips our stomachs and releases a different emotion we have yet to experience, then that catalyst deserves a title. So, say hello to the brand new music classification, groovy-pop. For those of us, who wished we could have been born in the true counterculture era, rather than the poser society we live in today, this genre shows that elements of the 60s and the 70s are not as long gone as we think. Who might the current...
With the upcoming release of their debut album, “I Waited For You”, Valora will redefine the male ego. The alternative rock genre is in dire need of this shake-up. The music industry doesn’t yearn for a band that can deliver a Daughtry hit, followed by a Nickelback hit, a Foo Fighters’ hit and topped off with the ultimate mimic, a Nirvana hit. The industry needs originality and what better way to spice up the bland rock stew than with some female flavoring? Shockya readers, say hello to the ultimate alternative ingredient, Syd Duran. Don’t worry, she is not a duplicate of Paramore’s Hayley Williams. Duran will not simply dismiss the...
Read our exclusive interview with actress and singer Allie Gonino, who is presently starring as Laurel Mercer on the acclaimed ABC Family teen drama series ‘The Lying Game,’ which is currently airing the second half of its first season. The show, which is based on the series of books of the same name by Sara Shepard, follows foster child Emma Becker, played by Alexandra Chando, as she finds out she has an identical twin sister, Sutton. The girls were separated at birth, and Sutton was adopted by wealthy parents and has a seemingly ideal life, including an adoptive sister, Laurel. Sutton convinces Emma to step into her life for a...
According to a recent survey in “Car and Driver,” texting while driving is more dangerous than operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and those who send text messages while driving are 23 times more likely to be in a car crash. While she fortunately hasn’t been one of those statistics, singer JoJo (http://twitter.com/JoJoistheway) felt strongly enough about the issue to step up and encourage her fans to take part in AT&T’s “It Can Wait” pledge to stop texting while driving. Recently, ShockYa had a chance to talk to the 21-year-old — who has sold more than three million albums worldwide – about why she’s involved in the campaign,...
Casey Desmond is probably a name you have heard more than once this year, especially if you watched “The Voice”. The Boston native was a part of Adam Levine’s team, which also consisted of “The Voice” winner, Javier Colon. Unfortunately, the singer, songwriter and musician was sent home by Levine after she battled teammate, Jeff Jenkins, on Elton John’s “Don’t Let Sun Go Down On Me”. You only temporarily had to say goodbye to Desmond that night in May because in 2012, she will be releasing a new studio album. Yes, Desmond will frequently be associated with “The Voice”, but her 2012 album will also showcase her game-shifting sound abilities...
His comeback is being heralded everywhere. He was able to bring the whole gang back together to make us smile and shed tears of joy (well, at least this guy) once again. He is one of the most iconic stars of all-time. Ladies and gentlemen…Kermit the Frog! Kermit was kind enough to answer a few of my questions last week, despite his demanding schedule – and Miss Piggy – coming off the success of the recently released flick, “The Muppets.” This is not the most in-depth chat yours truly have ever done (more like a convo on a red-carpet actually), but the frog did give us a few tidbits about...
It is time for you ShockYa readers to stop battling the hard driven beats of techno music. You must embrace the heart palpitations because if anything these past few years of chart topping tracks have shown you, it’s that electronic music defies the boring and repetitive characteristics heard in other genres, like country. Sorry, Blake Shelton, but hearing a verse with cowboy in it more than once deems a song to be vapid. Electronic tracks have enough life in them to resurrect the dying Shelton sounds. More specifically, Dynasty Electric has enough verve to do exactly that entirely on its own. With beat maker and lyricist, Seth Misterka, and sultry...
Sometimes with bands it takes one song to seal an eternity deal with a fan. In order for a tune to qualify for this level of security, it must be both lyrically and instrumentally captivating. This task is much more easily said than done. You must also throw memorable into the mix because how many songs have you come across that exude talent, but are far from catchy? Take for example Beyonce’s album, “4″. Sorry Beyonce, but it is true. Out of the 12 track album, how many songs can you name? This law of gaining the undying fan applies to the indie-eletronica band, The Limousines, which consist of multi-instrumentalist...
Popdust has done many “Magic Box” interviews that end up revealing a lot you didn’t know about your favorite stars in the music world, and this one with former Backstreet Boy Howie D is no different. In the interview featured below as well as at Popdust, Howie D answers questions about his celebrity crush, (Britney Spears), embarrasing nicknames, (“Dough Boy,” a nickname that he said actually scared him so badly that he can’t go into doughnut shops), and his horror story dealing with tequila (which caused him not to even want to smell the drink for six years). He also talks about the least favorite Backstreet Boys song that the...
The unknown can be intimidating because you don’t know what to expect, but sometimes the unexpected proves to be more exhilarating than the predictable. Here is where Steel Panther comes in. Instrumentally and vocally, the quartet of Steel Panther resembles the sounds of 80s rock n’ roll bands, but lyrically, there is no way to categorize them. Steel Panther, which consists of vocalist, Michael Starr, guitarist, Satchel, bassist, Lexxi Foxxx and drummer, Stix Zadinia, released their debut album, “Feel The Steel”in 2009 via Universal Republic Records. Produced by Jay Ruston, “Feel The Steel” is a bold album that will have you questioning, did they just really say that? No need...
Read our exclusive interview with television and film composer Robert Duncan, who is currently working on the new season of the hit ABC police series ‘Castle,’ for which he was nominated for an Emmy Award for the show’s first season in 2009. Duncan also worked on the music for the new film ‘The Entitled,’ which is now available on Blu-ray and DVD. The composer, who produces all of his music at Hollywood’s legendary Devonshire Studios, discusses with us, among other things, what the process of working on both ‘Castle’ and ‘The Entitled’ is like, and the similarities and differences of working on television and films. ShockYa (SY): You composed the...
The blending of the arts is beautiful. Yes, this statement is a bit cheesy, but when the art divisions are grouped together, the individual qualities they each possess are magnified. Take a look at the relationship between music and film. Both artistic styles heighten each other’s overall storyline. Imagine a movie without its score. It might not seem like such a big loss, but a soundtrack strengthens characters’ emotions and keeps the movie flowing from scene to scene. In other words, you should not take a film’s score for granted. Spindrift does not let a soundtrack go unnoticed. The psychedelic rock band, which currently consists of vocalist and guitarist, Kirpatrick...
Read our exclusive interview with director Nick Hamm, who helmed the new comedy film ‘Killing Bono,’ which is now playing in select theaters. The movie, which is based on musician and music critic Neil McCormick’s acclaimed 2003 memoir, ‘I Was Bono’s Doppelganger,’ follows him and his brother Ivan as they strive to achieve fame as a rock ‘n’ roll band. The only problem is that Neil, played by Ben Barnes, and his brother Ivan, portrayed by Robert Sheehan, are competing against Bono, played by Martin McCann, and the rest of the members of U2, who they attended school with. While Ivan has come to terms with U2′s achievements, and doesn’t...
Detroit quintet Ghosts of August released their first single “Disease” off their debut full-length and say that this single goes into full support of their fans. “For most fans, experiencing and finding music today is really an issue of trust,” states front man Dave Holowchak, “People find new music and recommendations through their most trusted sources – friends. A large part of how we create our music is built around rewarding that trust and encouraging this process by delivering great music.” Since their formation in 2007, Ghosts of August have been hard at work writing, recording, and playing gigs as any other band would do to help promote their abilities....
At times, October 31st can be a bit depressing. You are in candy overload, which for a woman means a grueling workout the next day. But, fear the November morning blues no more because this month’s upcoming album releases will bring back the excitement into your post Halloween lives. Let’s start with the forthcoming album, “In Some Way, Shape or Form”, from Four Year Strong. Following the group’s 2010 release, “Enemy of the World”, this new album will drop November 8th via Universal Republic Records. The quartet, which currently consists of vocalist and guitarist, Dan O’Connor, vocalist and guitarist, Alan Day, bassist and backing vocalist, Joe Weiss and drummer, Jackson...
Lady Gaga revamped pop music by blending true talent with a mystifying wardrobe. Now, the hip-hop world will get the same treatment with help from The Bundies. Comprised of the dapper duo, Pav Bundy and Jamelle Bundy, The Bundies showcased their funky and fresh tunes on October 17th at The Syndicate’s “Conflict of Interest” party for the CMJ Music Marathon in New York City. Masta Ace presented the new M3 group that night. Do you need to refresh your Masta Ace memory? Well, click here and then continue reading this post. The Masta Ace swag is instilled within The Bundies. The group may be up and coming, but both Pav...
