MusicRadar Live | News RSS Feed

Drum kits of the pros: stars' live and studio drum setups in pictures

Mon, 21 May 2012 10:38:00 GMT

UPDATED: We've updated the collection with several new kits, including the set-ups behind huge pop tours from Rihanna and The Wanted, a spartan punk kit from Rise Against and Mike Portnoy's current set. Find them on the next few slides and scroll through the gallery to see the whole selection.

Every month Rhythm magazine scales the four corners of the Earth to interview the best pro drummers out there and (more importantly for the purposes of this gallery) to take a closer - often exclusive - look at their drum setups. This gallery celebrates the best from Rhythm, and some of MusicRadar's own…

Scroll through to see kits belonging to some of the biggest names in the business from Travis Barker and Joey Jordison to Steve Gadd and Thomas Lang. You can click through to read gear-centric extracts from Rhythm's interviews from the stars themselves and, in many cases, from their all-knowing drum techs.

First up: Chris Johnson's Rihanna drum setup...

Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees dies at 62

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:21:00 GMT

Robin Gibb, singer and songwriter with the Bee Gees, has died aged 62 following a battle with cancer.

"The family of Robin Gibb, of the Bee Gees, announce with great sadness that Robin passed away today following his long battle with cancer and intestinal surgery," said a statement.

"The family have asked that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time."

The Bee Gees were famed not just for their own hits - including the hugely popular soundtrack album from the film Saturday Night Fever - but also for songs that they wrote for other artists, including Diana Ross (Chain Reaction), Dionne Warwick (Heartbreaker) and Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers (Islands In The Stream).

Robin Gibb's twin brother Maurice died in 2003 following complications from a twisted intestine.

Bee Gees - Night Fever

MusicRadar Deals Of The Week

Sun, 20 May 2012 13:19:00 GMT

Killer guitar, tech, amp or drum bargains from our recommended retailers

Adele wins two Ivor Novello awards

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:50:00 GMT

Adele has won two Ivor Novello awards at a ceremony in London this afternoon. The singer was named songwriter of the year, while Rolling In The Deep, the first single to be taken from her second album 21, was confirmed as the most played work of 2011.

The Ivor Novellos are designed specifically to recognise songwriting achievements. Other winners at the 2012 ceremony included Ed Sheeran for The A-Team (best song musically and lyrically) and PJ Harvey for Let England Shake (best album).

Also taking home prizes were Lana Del Rey and her British songwriting partner Justin Parker for Video Games (best contemporary song), Take That (outstanding contribution), Spandau Ballet's Gary Kemp (outstanding song collection), Siouxsie Sioux (Ivors Inspiration) and Mark Knopfler (lifetime achievement).

Win a pair of tickets to the sold-out Black Sabbath Birmingham O2 Academy show!

Mon, 14 May 2012 10:16:00 GMT

The 2012 Black Sabbath reunion has been one of the most talked-about musical happenings of recent years. With the band's first show just days away, anticipation is reaching fever pitch.

19 May sees Sabbath take to the stage at Birmingham O2 Academy as a warm-up for the band's headline slot at Download on Sunday 10 June. Obviously, the gig is completely sold out, and you can't get tickets anywhere, right? Wrong.

In a pretty damn exciting competition, we can offer one lucky winner a pair of tickets to Saturday's show at Birmingham O2 Academy, plus two copies of Iron Man: The Best Of Black Sabbath, a new compilation album set for a 4 June release, and copies of the deluxe editions of every Black Sabbath album from the Ozzy era. Now that is a lot of Sabbath.

Five runners up will receive copies of Iron Man: The Best Of Black Sabbath. To enter, simply answer the question below. The main winner will be responsible for all of their own travel costs and arrangements and will be informed on Friday 18 May. Deadline for entry is midnight on Thursday 17 May so hurry up and get those entries in!

The Competition

To be in with a chance of winning two tickets to see Black Sabbath this Saturday, simply answer the following question...

Which band did Tony Iommi briefly leave Earth to join in 1968?

A) The Yardbirds
B) Jethro Tull
C) Mountain

Enter here

Iron Man: The Best of Black Sabbath is a 14 track collection of classic tracks from across the band's first eight albums – including tracks from 1970s debut Black Sabbath and follow up Paranoid, 1971's Master Of Reality, 1972's Volume 4, 1973's Sabbath Bloody Sabbath and 1978's Never Say Die.

The album brings some of the best loved and most influential rock songs of all time together on one disc - including such classics as Paranoid, Iron Man, Black Sabbath, Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, War Pigs and Changes.

Full tracklisting (including original albums):

1. Paranoid (Paranoid)
2. Iron Man (Paranoid)
3. Changes (Volume 4)
4. Fairies Wear Boots (Paranoid)
5. War Pigs (Paranoid)
6. Never Say Die (Never Say Die)
7. Children Of the Grave (Master Of Reality)
8. The Wizard (Black Sabbath)
9. Snowblind (Volume 4)
10. Sweet Leaf (Master Of Reality)
11. Evil Woman (Don't Play Your Games) (Black Sabbath)
12. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (Sabbath Bloody Sabbath)
13. Black Sabbath (Black Sabbath)
14. N.I.B. (Black Sabbath)

Radio 1's Annie Nightingale to judge Live and Unsigned

Fri, 11 May 2012 12:35:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE: Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale MBE best known as Britain's first female DJ on Radio 1 is to judge Live and Unsigned the UK's biggest music competition for original artists for the fourth year running and will be judging at three of the Area Final shows this year.

The former presenter of the BBC's OId Grey Whistle Test can't wait to be involved again, "I am as enthusiastic as always at discovering new music talent. I look forward to hearing and seeing the finalists at Live and Unsigned, and will do my best to encourage them on their way to an exciting and successful future. Bring them on!

"This is great exposure – competing in a competition like this will get you recognised and winning it will attract interest. But there's a lot more to it, it's a long haul to be successful in this industry. I think bands need to ensure they are getting out there and building a fan base and getting hits on You Tube. Then it's about finding the right people to represent you – making sure you have good people around you that can open doors. If you've got the talent, you just need to surround yourself with people who believe in it and can represent you in the right manner."

Annie Nightingale the first ever female presenter on BBC Radio 1 is now Radio 1's longest serving broadcaster having been with Radio 1 over 40 years and remains the only female DJ in the world to have been honoured with an MBE by The Queen.

Annie's career has been a fantastical musical journey beginning with hanging out with the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who, and becoming a journalist and TV presenter. Having cracked the all-male preserve of DJs at Radio 1, she began a long and dedicated career in broadcasting at the BBC. Always insisting to choose her own music, Annie championed dozens of artists who later became worldwide successes.

"Be passionate and be committed. It's all about confidence. I also think honesty is great – there's something endearing about someone making a mistake or perhaps not being completely polished. Don't try too hard to be anyone else and believe in yourself."

This year the winners of Live and Unsigned will take home £10,000 in cash to spend on developing the act as they wish. They'll also get a further £10,000 spent on publicity and will take on a UK tour of up to 100 shows. Live and Unsigned is also offering festival slots in Sweden, Italy, Latvia and Ireland, as well as gigs at UK festivals like Beach Break Live and Relentless Energy Drink Boardmasters.

For more information on Live and Unsigned and to perform in front of judges such as Radio One's Annie Nightingale, sign up for Live and unsigned for next year!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Information taken from official press release, for more visit Live and Unsigned

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submit a press release: email musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com

Connect with MusicRadar: via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

Get MusicRadar straight to your inbox: Sign up for the free weekly newsletter

Live and Unsigned regional winners

Tue, 08 May 2012 14:04:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE: A Vintage Guitar plus other competition prizes including studio time, Blackstar amps and festival slots are among the prizes for the Live and Unsigned regional winners, which you'll find listed below.

Vintage guitar prize - Results

Vintage Extreme Exposure Award – The winning artist/band of each of the Regional Finals will be able to choose a Vintage guitar of their choice – electric, acoustic or bass – up to the value of £350 courtesy of JHS. The prizes go to:

Brighton

Coco and the Butterfields who win a guitar courtesy of Vintage.

Sheffield

The Kamenwin a free guitar courtesy of Vintage.

Birmingham

Pete Winwood wins a free guitar courtesy of Vintage.

London

City Minus Hero who win a free guitar courtesy of Vintage.

Cardiff

One Way who win a free guitar courtesy of Vintage.

Essex

Mercury Skies who win a guitar courtesy of Vintage.

The winners of the Live and Unsigned Grand Final, which is to be held at London's prestigious O2 venue this summer on the 14th July, will take home £2000-worth of the brand new Fret-King Black Label range of electric guitars and basses, as well as an endorsement deal.

JHS, Vintage and Fret-King have always supported up-and-coming and unsigned artists, and these prizes represent a opportunity for talented young bands to get themselves some professional quality instruments.

Vintage & Fret King Guitars supporting Unsigned artists

JHS's Managing Director, Dennis Drumm, said: "Initiatives like Live and Unsigned are so important in giving aspiring musicians a platform to perform, and a goal to aim for. We should never forget how great it feels to chase your dream and with so many young – not to mention older – players relying on Vintage and Fret-King guitars, the opportunity to support this terrific competition was one we couldn't say no to. With the support of MusicRadar, great sponsors and terrific venues, a lot of young musicians are going to get great exposure, terrific experience, have a lot of fun, and win a lot of guitars!"

The Regional Final brought together the best unsigned acts from London and beyond in their bids to make it through to the Area Final stage. Those acts that made it through to the Area Final are now just one step away from playing the National Grand Final at Live Fest in The O2, London.

Blackstar amp prize - Results

Blackstar Exposure Award – The winning artist/band of each of the Regional Finals will receive a brand new HT-1 combo amp. The prizes go to:

Brighton

Coco and the Butterfields win a brand new Blackstar amp

Sheffield

Pheasants & Their Enemies win a brand new Blackstar amp

Birmingham

The Prospects win a brand new Blackstar amp

London

The Antidotewin a brand new Blackstar amp

Cardiff

Wise Intentions win a brand new Blackstar amp

Essex

Rivers win a brand new Blackstar amp

Blackstar Amplification is the perfect partner for Live and Unsigned, as the company's ethos revolves around creating the best possible platform for musicians to create a unique and individual sound.

Blackstar supporting Unsigned artists

Joel Richardson of Blackstar said: "As a company we are strongly independent and this is reflected in our design philosophy. Rather than restricting guitarists to the signature sounds of the established brands, Blackstar Amplification allows tonal flexibility far beyond that of existing equipment.

"It is this spirit and technical ability which makes us so pleased to be involved in Live and Unsigned – no matter what genre or musical background auditionees come from our amps will help them make the best possible impact in front of the judges."

The Regional Final brought together the best unsigned acts from Essex and beyond in their bids to make it through to the Area Final stage. Those acts that made it through to the Area Final are now just one step away from playing the National Grand Final at Live Fest in The O2, London.

Studio time - Results

Other competition prizes in each Regional Final include studio time and festival slots amongst the prizes in the showcase for the UK's biggest music competition Live and Unsigned where won by:

Brighton

Mee wins a free day in a recording studio with Metway Studio

Coco and the Butterfieldswin a free day in a recording studio with Metway Studio

Breannewins music lessons with Brighton Singing Tuition

Morganwins music lessons with Brighton Singing Tuition

Sheffield

The Kamen also win a free day in a recording studio with Basement Studios

Lindsey Simpson wins a free day in a recording studio with Basement Studios

Rita Payne wins music lessons with Harmony Music School

Emily Gouldthorpe wins music lessons with Harmony Music School

Birmingham

Bb wins a free day in a recording studio with Born in a Barn Studio

Maxed Out win a free day in a recording studio with Born in a Barn Studio

Sam Eden wins music lessons with the Birmingham Yamaha Music School

Zack & Izzie win music lessons with the Birmingham Yamaha Music School

London

Mitsotu win a free day in a recording studio with Subbubble Studios

Michelle De Jong wins music lessons

KT Hurt wins music lessons

Cardiff

Approaching Danger win a free day in a recording studio with Factory Studios

Decidian win a free day in a recording studio with Factory Studios

Morgan Rawbone wins music lessons

Surahn wins music lessons

Essex

Rachel Brooks wins a day in a recording studio with Bonafide Studio

Hookah win a day in a recording studio with Bonafide Studio

Laura Thompson wins music lessons

Charlotte Forman wins music lessons

Festival slots for Live and Unsigned acts

Acts that will have the chance of being selected to perform a slot at festivals are:

Brighton

Quackhouse

Coco and the Butterfields

Angharad

Lucy in the Lights

Sheffield

Jack's Attic

Birmingham

The Dirty Cheats

Frutaloka

Osfest will be selecting two more acts to play the festival from the Midlands Area Final!

Cardiff

Hullabaloo

Shoot the Moon

Boomtown Fair Festival will be selected 2 more acts from the South-West England and Wales Area Final!

Also selected on behalf of Watchet LIVE to play their annual festival are;

Kelly and Alana

Alex Pascoe

Watchet Live will also be selecting 2 more acts from the South-West England and Wales Area Final!

Essex

The Story Boys

Deco Pilot

The Peppermint Apes

Beastie Boy Adam Yauch, aka MCA, dies

Fri, 04 May 2012 16:34:00 GMT

The website of Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons is reporting that Adam Yauch, the Beastie Boys' MCA, has died.

At the time of writing no official confirmation of cause of death is available but Yauch, 47, had been battling cancer since 2009.

He denied reports he had beaten the disease in 2011, saying he was 'optimistic and hoping to be cancer free in the near future.'

The Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame just two weeks ago. Yauch is survived by his wife and daughter.

BIMM announce Peter Grant Memorial Scholarship

Tue, 01 May 2012 14:17:00 GMT

BIMM Principal Vaseema Hamilton explains, "BIMM have created this scholarship in memory of the one of the most influential figures of the modern music industry."

The scholarship will be linked to the Music Industry Management BAHons qualification being run at BIMM Bristol from September 2012. This course as with all BIMM programmes is vocational and designed to act as a springboard into employment.

Mark Clayden BIMM Bristol College Manager explains, "We have designed the Music Industry Management BAHons to support up and coming young professionals eager to make their mark in the music industry. Training students in all areas of this ever changing industry including: Live Event Management, Retail, Promotion, Record Labels, A&R, Working With Musicians, Finances and Music Law."

Touched and honoured

Peter Grant's daughter, Helen Grant, added, "My father would have been both touched and honoured that this scholarship has been created in his name. He was a great inspiration to many people in the business, not only on the management front, but in the way he looked after his artists in his own, infamous way! A charismatic personality coupled with great humor, means he is never far away. This is a long overdue accolade. Never forgotten"

Peter Grant, best known as the manager of Led Zeppelin, also worked closely with Bo Diddley, The Everly Brothers, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Gene Vincent, the Animals and the Yardbirds, to name a few. In 1996, The Music Managers Forum (MMF) award for outstanding achievement in management was renamed the Peter Grant Award, in his honour.

The Peter Grant Memorial Scholarship will cover approx £16,000 of course fees across the three year undergraduate programme.

To find out how to apply for The Peter Grant Memorial Scholarship call 0844 2 646 666, email info@bimm.co.ukor visit www.bimm.co.uk/bristol

VIDEO: Shinedown guitarist Zach Myers' live setup

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Zach Myers' career trajectory with Shinedown has been enviable, albeit a little strange: Since 2004, he's gone from guitar tech to temporary bass player to rhythm guitarist, and with the departure of lead guitarist Nick Perri in 2008, he's now the multi-platinum band's sole axeman.

"We're feeling great," Myers says after a mid-afternoon soundcheck at the House Of Blues in Atlantic City, New Jersey. "I've been the only guitar player in the band for four years now, so I'm pretty used to it. And we're so much stronger now. Everybody's getting along, playing great, sounding killer - it's pretty cool."

That much is evident on Shinedown's recently released album, Amaryllis, a muscular and mature effort that has already yielded one radio smash, Bully, with more on the way.

The stage crew is about to lock down equipment before the show, but before they do, Myers gives MusicRadar a walkthrough of his guitars (a small Paul Reed Smith showroom), effects and amps. On the back of one of his PRS Private Stock models is a hand-drawn message: God Bless Levon Helm. The legendary Band drummer and singer had passed away a few days ago, and Myers heaves a heavy sigh, reflecting on the man he considers himself fortunate to have known.

"I not only had the pleasure of playing with Levon, I even got to write a song with him," he says. "He was a brilliant, tremendous man in every way. He will be missed, most definitely."

Rush release the fiery new song, Headlong Flight

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:15:00 GMT

Rush return with Headlong Flight, a dynamic preview of Clockwork Angels. © Tim Mosenfelder/Corbis

Ahead of the release of their much-anticipated 20th studio album, Clockwork Angels, Rush have just unleashed the first official single from the new set, the fiery Headlong Flight.

Clocking in at nearly seven and a half minutes, it's a guided tour of Rush's best assets: Alex Lifeson's expansive guitar playing, Geddy Lee's ever-adventurous bass work and Neil Peart's on-point rolls and lethal snare attack.

"Headlong Flight was one of those songs that was a joy to write and record from beginning to end," Lee told Rolling Stone. "Alex and I had blast jamming in my home studio one day before the second leg of the Time Machine tour, and I did not revisit that jam until a year later.

"Alex and I assembled the song to be an instrumental and its original title was Take That Lampshade Off Yo Head!, but once we saw the lyrics Neil had written, I knew that the spirit of the lyrics matched the instrumental perfectly and it was just a matter of making them fit and writing the melodies."

Clockwork Angels was produced by Rush and Nick Raskulinecz. You can listen to Headlong Flight over at Rolling Stone's site.

Rush fans in the UK can get the album first as part of a special edition fanpack published by our good friends at Classic Rock.

MusicRadar festival guide 2012

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome to MusicRadar's guide to the best of 2012's festival action.

Whether you're after a low-key folk festival, a dance-fuelled rave, an inner-city event or a field full of heavy metal fans, we've rounded-up our pick of some of the UK's biggest and best festivals, plus a few of our favourites from around the world. Check out each individual festival's page for information on line-ups, tickets and locations.

Free Roadrunner Records 13-track Download Festival 2012 sampler

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:13:00 GMT

It's almost that time of year when we all drink too much, dance around like idiots, cover ourselves in mud and listen to music louder than a jet engine. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Download 2012 is almost upon us!

To celebrate, Roadrunner Records is offering a free 13-track MP3 sampler featuring some of the finest Roadrunner tracks of the last 12 months.

But that's not all! By downloading the sampler, you'll also be entered into a draw to win two tickets for Download 2012.

The main winner will also win one of three signed, huge Download 2008 posters. The other two posters will go to two runners-up, who'll also receive equally huge Download 2006 posters. Tasty.

The sampler features:

1. Black Stone Cherry - White Trash Millionaire
2. Soulfly - World Scum
3. Lamb of God - Ghost Walking
4. Revoker - Stay Down
5. Royal Republic - Tommy Gun
6. Kids In Glass Houses - Gold Blood
7. Trivium - In Waves
8. DevilDriver - You Make Me Sick
9. Periphery - Passenger
10. Theory Of A Deadman - Lowlife
11. Machine Head - Locust
12. Megadeth - Public Enemy No. 1
13. Opeth - The Devil's Orchard

To download the sampler and enter the draw, simply fill in your details on Roadrunner's Facebook page by clicking here...

Read MusicRadar's bumper 2012 festival guide here!

Classic Rock Presents Rush - Clockwork Angels fanpack revealed, plus artwork and tracklist

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:12:00 GMT

Rush have revealed release details of their forthcoming new album, Clockwork Angels.

The album - Rush's first since 2007 and their first on Roadrunner Records - will go on sale officially in the UK in July. However, the new record will be available from 11 June as part of an exclusive fanpack put together by our good friends at Classic Rock.

On sale a full three weeks before the regular UK album release date, Classic Rock Presents Rush - Clockwork Angels (fanpack edition) features the new album in full plus a 132 page magazine that forms the 'ultimate sleevenotes' to the new record, with extensive and exclusive interviews with Neil Peart, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson.

Inside is everything you need to know about Clockwork Angels: full track-by-track rundown by the band, an interview with producer Nic Raskulinecz, long time cover artist Hugh Syme and more - all with exclusive unseen shots.

Other features include: Gene Simmons on Rush in the '70s, Rush's live rig and set-up, plus the band's full back catalogue reappraised by former producer Terry Brown, Manic Street Preacher and superfan Nicky Wire, Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) and more.

Pre-order Classic Rock Presents Rush - Clockwork Angels

Rush - Clockwork Angels tracklist:

Caravan
BU2B
Clockwork Angels
The Anarchist
Carnies
Halo Effect
Seven Cities Of Gold
The Wreckers
Headlong Flight
BU2B2
Wish Them Well
The Garden

Watch footage of the first annual National Learn To Play Day

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:20:00 GMT

Last Saturday (31 March) saw Music For All's first National Learn To Play day, on which musical instrument shops across the country hosted free 'taster' instrument lessons for members of the public.

The video above gives a taste of the hugely successful event held by Absolute Music at its new studio complex in Wallisdown, Dorset.

For information about future events and projects from Music For All check out their website.

Universal Music's Simon Li to judge Live and Unsigned 2012

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:35:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE: Simon Li from Universal Music is the next music industry judge to be added to the Live and Unsigned judging panel! Universal Music's Simon Li will be looking for the next big thing whilst judging for Live and Unsigned.

Simon is responsible for fielding all demos sent to Universal Music's UK website. He listens, files and responds to all submitted demos, using his experienced ears and impeccable judgment to pick the best demos to send on to Universal Music's A&R department.

Since writing his first song at the age of six, Simon's life has always focused around music. He was part of a semi-pro band at the age of 15, and has previously worked for Island, Sanctuary and W14, as well as having stints in Digital for Universal's Catalogue and TV divisions.

Universal Music judge Simon Li now continues to sing, play guitar and write his own music. He also produces and remixes, and runs his own dance label.

The Live and Unsigned music competition has music industry judges attend every stage from auditions to the National Final. We have judges from Radio 1, Kerrang, NME, BBC Introducing, regional press & record labels.

Live and Unsigned has added a tasty new main cash prize of £10,000 for the winning act of this year's competition. The UK's largest music competition for unsigned acts and bands is set to be even bigger this year with up to £100,000 of prizes to be won along the way!

As well as the outstanding new main prize of £10,000 in cash for the winning act to spend on their development as they wish, the lucky act can expect to embark on an extensive UK tour of up to 100 shows, which will also see them take to the stage at some of the UK's hottest festivals, with festival organisers from Strawberry Fields Festival, Norfolk Spectacular, Brownstock, Butserfest, London Summer Jam, Z-Fest and Lancaster Music Festival all offering slots to the Live and Unsigned winning act to play their 2012 events!

As if the outstanding winner's package wasn't enough, there are up to £100,000 worth of prizes up for grabs for all acts throughout the competition. There are over 75 festival support slots up for grabs for this year's contestants, with organisers from festivals such as Beach Break Live and OsFest selecting acts throughout the music contest! Other prizes up for grabs throughout the competition include a selection of Blackstar and TC Electronic amps, and free studio time at some of the country's finest studios!

With an exceptional winner's package and plenty of prizes up for grabs throughout the entire competition, it's clear that Live and Unsigned is THE competition for unsigned solo acts and bands. Sign up for 2012 auditions which are underway in January - visit www.liveandunsigned.uk.com.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Information taken from official press release, for more visit Live and Unsigned

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submit a press release: email musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com

Connect with MusicRadar: via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

Get MusicRadar straight to your inbox: Sign up for the free weekly newsletter

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sonisphere UK 2012 cancelled

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 09:07:00 GMT

The UK leg of Sonisphere festival, set to take place at Knebworth on 6 – 8 July, has been cancelled.

The festival was due to host headline sets from Kiss, Faith No More and Queen featuring former American Idol contestant Adam Lambert. But organisers have made the decision to pull the plug on this year's event, stating "circumstances have dictated that we would be unable to run the festival to a standard that both the artists and that Sonisphere's audience would rightly expect."

Read the full statement from the organisers below for more details. There is, as yet, no word on whether the organisers intend to stage the event again in 2013.

Official statement from Sonisphere:

"It is with very heavy hearts and much regret that we announce the cancellation of Sonisphere Knebworth 2012.

"Putting the festival together in what is proving to be a very challenging year was more difficult than we anticipated and we have spent the last few months fighting hard to keep Sonisphere in the calendar. Unfortunately circumstances have dictated that we would be unable to run the festival to a standard that both the artists and that Sonisphere's audience would rightly expect.

"We want to express our deepest regrets to the artists and to thank all the staff, suppliers and contractors who worked so hard with us to try and pull off what has share in our disappointment. We also want to send a huge thanks to the Sonisphere fans who stuck by us and we are so sorry that we can't fulfil what we set out to do.

"Ticket holders will automatically receive a full refund direct from their ticket agents."

To check-out other festival options this summer read the MusicRadar festival guide 2012.

Live and Unsigned regional winners: Essex

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:05:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE: A Vintage Guitar for the band Mercury Skies plus other competition prizes including studio time, Blackstar amps and festival slots were among the prizes in Essex for the UK's biggest music competition Live and Unsigned which took place in Basildon, Essex at the Towngate Theatre recently.

The Live and Unsigned Regional Final rolled into town and gave Essex acts the chance to compete for free studio time, free amps, festival slots and other prizes.

Vintage guitar prize Essex - Results

Mercury Skies who win a guitar courtesy of Vintage.

Vintage & Fret King Guitars supporting Unsigned artists

Blackstar amp prize Essex - Results

Blackstar Exposure Award – The winning artist/band of each of the Regional Finals will receive a brand new HT-1 combo amp. The prize goes to:

Rivers win a brand new Blackstar amp

Blackstar Amplification is the perfect partner for Live and Unsigned, as the company's ethos revolves around creating the best possible platform for musicians to create a unique and individual sound.

Blackstar supporting Unsigned artists

Studio time Essex - Results

Other competition prizes in each Regional Final include studio time and festival slots amongst the prizes in the Essex showcase for the UK's biggest music competition Live and Unsigned where won by;

Rachel Brooks wins a day in a recording studio with Bonafide Studio

Hookah win a day in a recording studio with Bonafide Studio

Laura Thompson wins music lessons

Charlotte Forman wins music lessons

Festival slots Essex for Live and Unsigned acts

Festival Prizes – Along the way there will be acts selected from each of the showcase event for over 100 festival slots (see website), including festivals on a global scale such as Italy's Tour Fest, Sweden's Peace and Love Festival and Latvia's massive Summer Sound Festival as well as UK festivals such as Relentless Energy Drink Boardmasters, Beach Break Live, Bearded Theory, Strawberry Fields, Norfolk Spectacular and Osfest. Essex acts will have the chance of being selected to perform a slot at a number of festivals with the Regional Final at Basildon festival partner being Brownstock Festival. Brownstock organiser Elliot Waters judged the Regional Finals in Basildon and was so impressed with the talent that he has chosen the following acts to perform at their annual festival:

The Story Boys

Deco Pilot

The Peppermint Apes

Brownstock will also give a slot to the act crowned winner of Live and Unsigned 2012.

Judging the acts at the Towngate Theatre, Basildon, Essex were Head of A&R at Future Music Ben Price, Elliot Waters from Brownstock Festival, Editor of Crave on Music Tina Campbell, Tim Thorogood who owns the Essence Music Agency, Brian Bogdanovic from Bonafide Studio and Michael Adjei from The Urban Directory.

Finally, thanks to all of those who came out in their droves to support the unsigned talent of Basildon, Essex and surrounding areas – we can't wait to see you at the Midlands Area Final at Bedford on Sunday 13th May at The Corn Exchange, St Paul's Square, Bedford, nr Milton Keynes MK40 1SL.

If you're an unsigned band and act and want to win music equipment enter click here now or browse the site for more information.

Rod Stewart to perform live with The Faces

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 13:20:00 GMT

Rod Stewart is to perform live with The Faces for the first time in 19 years, drummer Kenney Jones has exclusively revealed to MusicRadar. The band will play a short set when they are inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, on 14 April.

It will be the first time the surviving members of the group (Stewart, Jones, guitarist Ron Wood and keyboard player Ian McLagan) have played together in public since Stewart received a lifetime achievement honour at the Brit Awards in 1993. Recent Faces reunions have seen Mick Hucknall singing the band's legendary hits.

"Contrary to what some people might think, we're all still great mates and we've never said we wouldn't play together again," said Jones. "We all had dinner about a month ago and decided that the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame would be the perfect time and place.

"The last time we rehearsed together was about three years ago at a little place in Bermondsey, the same place where we used to rehearse back in the '70s, just to see if the magic was still there – and it was. We ended up not doing anything more for a couple of reasons, including Rod's busy solo schedule and his Vegas commitments, which is why we brought in Mick for a few dates."

Speaking to MusicRadar last year, McLagan went into more detail as to why those rehearsals came to nought: "The thing is that Rod's voice isn't what it was, he had surgery on his vocal cords a few years ago and it's changed the way he sings.

"We basically had to re-learn all the songs in different keys to accommodate Rod. Ron Wood had to put heavier strings on his guitar and tune everything down, and we all agreed that it just wasn't the same. That's not to say we'll never play with Rod again, never say never; if at some point in the future he's really up for it, and we can all get comfortable with the changes to the songs, there's no reason for us not to get back out there."

Jones wouldn't reveal the specific contents of the group's three-song set at the induction, but said it would comprise two Faces tracks and an earlier hit by The Small Faces, who are also being inducted.

"As to whether we'll do anything else after the Hall Of Fame show, we'll just have to see how it goes," Jones added. "I'd like to think there's more to come, although it depends how everyone's individual schedules are shaping up. But we're all really looking forward to getting up on stage again, it's been far too long."

Free nationwide music lessons: seven days to go

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:48:00 GMT

National Learn to Play Day, offering free musical instrument lessons to the public, is only seven days away. Its organisers, the charity Music For All, can now announce a huge range of free nationwide activities with support from rock stars and music organisations.

Just confirmed is comedian Al Murray, giving free music lessons at Chappells of Bond Street, London. Several local mayors (Southampton, Bournmouth, Eastbourne) are also attending events.

Rock Stars

Rock stars already publicised as helping out include Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Whitesnake (Doug Aldrich, Brian Tichy, Michael Devin) and further artists just announced include Mark Brzezicki (Big Country), Ric Sanders (Fairport Convention) and renowned saxophonist, Snake Davis (Eurythmics, Take That, Paul McCartney, Beyoncé).

Almost 70 shops around the country are now taking part with new events confirmed in Nottingham, Metro Centre Gateshead, Eastbourne and Southampton. From samba bands, to brass bands, top buskers to acclaimed pianists, the general public will not only be entertained but provided with a golden opportunity to learn instruments themselves. Free lessons offered cover a wide range of instruments and styles and include electric and acoustic guitar, drums, ukulele, piano, saxophone, flute, trumpet, cornet, Bassoon, DJ Workshops, African drumming, singing, band jams and more!

Industry support

Support has also been flooding in from the music industry with brands as varied as Yamaha, Fender, Gibson, Roland, Korg, Marshall Amps and Peavey providing demonstrators, prizes, goody bags, discount vouchers and technical support. Other organisations such as UK Music and partners the Musician's union, Arts Council Take it Away scheme and MusicTeachers.co.uk have provided assistance, support and help in creating this exciting day.

National Learn to Play Day offers the perfect opportunity for members of the public to start playing or making the move back into music, no strings attached!

More music shops throughout the UK are joining in everyday, so to find out you're nearest shop please visit www.learntoplayday.com, for the latest up to date news and venue details.

Win a copy of the Reef Ultimate Collector's Box-Set

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:40:00 GMT

Spanning their ten year career, this 9 CD and 1 DVD package features every commercial song recorded, including their very first demo 'The Purple Tape' – which lead to the band being signed to Sony - as well as b-sides, demos, live tracks, rarities and previously un-released and un-heard material.

The DVD includes all music promo videos, TV appearances and interviews and some home movie footage capturing the story of this iconic '90's band. Beautifully packaged the box set also contains a 64-page booklet featuring never-before-seen pictures of the band, a 12" vinyl of their newly arranged 5th album (Lucky #5), a vintage poster and a replica demo of their 'Purple Tape' sessions.

This is available to buy from 26 March, visit the metropolis website to order your copy.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER NOW!

Musikmesse 2012 video: Alphasphere on camera

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:58:00 GMT

FRANKFURT MUSIKMESSE 2012: We first encountered the Alphasphere when we visited makers nu-desine last year.

The surface of the instrument is covered with 48 pads that respond to pressure to trigger samples or control parameters such as pitch, volume and oscillation. We hovered over to the nu-desine booth at Frankfurt to get a detailed demo.

Musikmesse 2012: Mackie expands portable PA range

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:55:00 GMT

FRANKFURT MUSIKMESSE 2012 PRESS RELEASE: Mackie today announces a new range of gear designed to meet the global customer demand for passive systems.

The new system is composed of three different series of products: S500 Series Passive Loudspeakers, FRS Series Power Amplifiers and the SP260 2x6 Speaker Processor.

"Our customers have asked for an expanded portable PA line that delivers professional performance at amazing prices," remarked Mackie's Director of Product Management, Greg Young. "This new system does just that, with class-leading performance and unmatched affordability."

Offering class-leading power handling and construction, Mackie S500 Series Passive Loudspeakers deliver professional results in rugged designs that are exceedingly affordable. Delivering a high-powered solution for Mackie's popular PPM Series of powered mixers, S500 passive loudspeakers utilize high-output transducers housed within rugged enclosures covered in tough PVC vinyl and capped with protective edge bumpers. All S500 models feature NL4 and 1/4″ inputs and thru connections. There are three full-range boxes in the series: the S512 2-way 12″, the S515 2-way 15″ and the S525 2-way dual 15″. There is also a companion 18″ subwoofer, the S518.

Available in two different high-powered configurations (FRS-1700 & FRS-2800), Mackie FRS Series Power Amplifiers utilize Mackie's proven Fast Recovery™ technology for quicker transient response, keeping the sound clean and undistorted even when pushed hard. High-current, switching power supplies maximize efficiency and minimize the weight, making FRS power amplifiers a professional choice that keeps the amp rack light for transportation.

Offering sophisticated EQ, dynamics processing and system protection, the SP260 2x6 Speaker Processor provides complete system optimization for both passive and powered systems. The six outputs feature five different operating modes to cover a wide range of systems. Each output features dedicated level control, polarity invert, high/low-pass filters, 7-band parametric/shelving EQ, 600ms delay and limiting. Two input channels provide independent 600ms delay and a flexible 5-band parametric/shelving EQ. The convenient front-panel control also includes 7-segment LED metering per channel. The SP260 utilizes high-end 24-bit AKM® AD/DA converters with 120dB dynamic range for class-leading sound quality. With 24 user-definable presets and flexible I/O for simple routing and configuration, the SP260 is an ultra-flexible processor, ideal for a wide range of portable and permanent applications.

All three series are scheduled for Q2, 2012 availability. Visit Mackie during Prolight + Sound / Musikmesse from March 21-24, 2012 in Frankfurt, Germany in Halle 6.1, Stand C30 for additional info, including pricing.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Information taken from official press release, for more visit Mackie

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submit a press release: email musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com

Connect with MusicRadar: via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

Get MusicRadar straight to your inbox: Sign up for the free weekly newsletter

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Musikmesse 2012: live from the show floor

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:13:00 GMT

Welcome to our rolling Musikmesse 2012 gallery, in which you'll find the latest photos, hands-on tests and oddities from the show floor.

If you want to browse all of our Frankfurt coverage, make sure you check out our Musikmesse 2012 hub; for live updates from the team on the floor, keep it right here.

Musikmesse 2012: Brand new Roland guitar amps

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:00:00 GMT

FRANKFURT MUSIKMESSE 2012 PRESS RELEASE: Custom built and supercharged for the stage, the new GA-112 and GA-212 are powerhouse guitar amplifiers.

With the latest COSM amp model onboard — Progressive Amp — the GA-112 and GA-212 empowers guitarists with original sound creation, intuitive control, and the ultimate in comfort, expression, and playability.

The GA-112 is perfect for rehearsal studios or small- to medium-scale live venues, while the GA-212 is designed for medium to large stages.

GA-112: One 12" speaker, 100W amp
GA-212: Two 12" speakers, 200W amp
Original COSM amp model (Progressive Amp) with incredible feel, attack, compression, and sustain
Morph from Clean to Super Extreme with the Drive knob and Boost button
Intuitive operation with simple, fast-access structure; two volume controls, three tone controls, presence, and reverb
Smart Channel memorises the latest position of knobs in all four channels without programming or saving
LED knobs show current position of knobs in any channel; great for dark stages

Progressive Amp

Built into the GA-112 and GA-212 is a new and unique COSM amp model called Progressive Amp. With the simple twist of the DRIVE knob and push of the Boost button, you can morph through a diverse sonic landscape of new amp sounds, from clean to Super Extreme.

Instant Access

No matter which sound you're going for, the GA series makes it fast and easy to find with only two volumes knobs, three tone-control knobs, and presence and reverb effects to navigate. From your mind to your fingers, the GA series inspires fast workflow and fluid performance.

Smart Channel

The new Smart Channel feature always saves the latest panel settings automatically, and you can recall four types of settings with a button push. No mystery, no confusion — the glowing LED knobs clearly indicate the positions of each parameter for the four memories, and help you visually check the current settings onstage.

Signature Style

GA-series amps are the brainchild of Roland and BOSS R&D, a world-leading force in cutting-edge sound. These amps feature the latest advancements in tone tech, yet they provide simplistic operation with signature styling. Turn heads with these attractive, road-tough amps that look as cool as they sound.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Information taken from official press release, for more visit Roland

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Submit a press release: email musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com

Connect with MusicRadar: via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

Get MusicRadar straight to your inbox: Sign up for the free weekly newsletter

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------