Headline News from Cottage Views Classic Rock News

Cottage Views Current Fav: "Roadsinger" from Yusuf (the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens)

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R.I.P. I actually started this piece this afternoon after reading about the passing of Sky Saxon, the front man from 60's garage rockers the Seeds, worried that Cottage Views would become the obituary column for old Rock Stars, and then the bomb dropped about Michael Jackson's fatal heart attack. I do not wish to exclude anyone, or leave anyone out from oversight, so... to all our fallen heroes, and there seems to be way too many these days, but such is the circle of life. Cheers to the memories of Sky, Michael, singer/songwriters Kenny Rankin and John Martyn, Ronette Estelle Bennett, Muscle Shoals' Barry Beckett, Lynryd Skynyrd's Ean Evans and Billy Powell, Buffalo Springfield's Dewey Martin, the Venture's Bob Bogle, Soft Machine's Hugh Hopper, Blues legend Koko Taylor, Funk Brother Uriel Jones, ELO's Kelly Groucutt, the Stooges' Ron Ashton...

Cottage Views Senior Editor just got in from the Luka Bloom concert and can't remember the last time he was so blown away by a solo performer. He opened with "I am no at War with Anyone." Go away war planes/You bring fear and shame/This rush to war was wrong/I just sing my song/I am not at war with anyone.

Men At Work Going to Court The owner of the Children's song "Kookaburra" claims that Colin Hay and Ron Strykert (who wrote the hit tune "Down Under") plagiarized the flute riff from them. They WILL be going to court.

Woodstock - original sountrack.JPG (79411 bytes)

Free love, free music, Free-dom… it was all free and easy for the hippies back in 1969 when the original Woodstock Music and Arts Festival was held on the now sacred land of Yasgur’s Farm, where the Time Warner Cable sponsored Bethel Woods Center for the Arts currently resides. Just don’t let that “free” tag fool you, as the freedom loving masses-turned-entrepreneurs bring you the 40^th anniversary celebration of that beloved gathering of freaks and music.

Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love the ideal, and the music, and the fact that the festival produced zero violence (with the exception of a lot of brain cells getting killed), but you want to talk about cashing in? Over the next two months the marketplace will be flooded with authorized Woodstock 40^th Anniversary products for consumers to devour until their hearts delight. A quick search on Amazon’s web site produced 45 variations of DVDs related to the festival, 315 separate CD titles, 589 varying T shirts, apparel, or accessories, and a whopping 34,327 different books!

Universal Music has just reissued four key discs from the Rolling Stones catalog. While Some Girls, Emotional Rescue, Tattoo You, and Undercover all sport newly remastered sound that’s all you get folks. Don’t expect any bonus tracks or revelations here. Who was the corporate sludge that made that decision?

36 years later, Former CCR front-man John Fogerty will release a follow up to his album of covers, The Blue Ridge Rangers. The new disc BRR Rides Again will feature Fogerty’s take on Delaney and Bonnie’s “Never Ending Song of Love,” as well as a duet with Bruce Springsteen on the Everly Brothers classic “When will I be Loved?” and a version of Ricky Nelson’s “Garden Party” that features guest vocals from Eagles Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit.

Cat, Macca, Klaus Record UPDATED Yusuf (a.k.a. Cat Stevens) was locked up in a London studio recording songs for his follow-up to the excellent (and undeservedly overlooked) An Other Cup. Out now, the disc entitled Roadsinger, is a eleven track return to his roots with the old Cat Stevens sound intact. The first single, "Boots and Sand," was completed (with Paul McCartney and Dolly Parton on vocals) and a video for it shot in the California desert. For some strange reason the song was left off of the new disc, but can be found as a download. The quality of the disc is indeed very high, with lyrics relating to his personal trials and tribulations as well as that of the world's, but falls short in the fact that it clocks in at less than 40 minutes. In related news, Yusuf has contributed to bassist/artist Klaus Voorman's new disc, The Sideman's Journey - a charity disc in aid of the Oglala Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Yusuf contributes vocals and 12 String guitar to two George Harrison compositions for the disc, "All Things Must Pass" and "The Day the World Gets 'Round." The later is already available via download with proceeds going to Save The Children and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. On his website, Yusuf said, "This song represents for me the great spirit of George Harrison. I hope this song will help remind people of the immense legacy of peace, love, and happiness we can share when we get 'round to looking at mankind's futile wars and prejudices, and start to change our foolish ways."

The Bangles Return 80s Power-Pop priestesses The Bangles (now officially a trio - Susanna Hoffs, Debbi & Vicki Peterson) are reportedly in the studio working on a new album for 2009. Additionally, a couple of their splinter projects are underway with guitarist Vicki Peterson teaming up with Susan Cowsill and Peter Holsapple once again for a Continental Drifters show as part of this year's Jazzfest in New Orleans, and Susannah Hoffs joining Matthew Sweet for the second helping of Under The Covers. While the disc is not slated for release until late July, 16 tracks for Under the Covers, Vol. 2 have already been recorded. Guests include Dhani Harrison, the son of the late great Beatle George, on a version of his father's "Beware of Darkness," Steve Howe on Yes' "I've Seen All Good People," and Fleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham on "Second Hand News." Other tracks recorded by the duo are Todd Rundgren's "Hello, It's Me," Carly Simon's "You're So Vain," and the Raspberries "Go All the Way."

Frampton-Fony Apparantely there is an imposter on Facebook that claims he is Peter Frampton. Please be aware that the one in question may not be the real Peter Frampton, and you may not want him to be your friend. Meanwhile, the real Frampton will be on tour this summer. Go to www.Frampton.com for more details.

Grammys Step it Up Congratulations to all of the 51st

Annual Grammy Award winners. For the first time in a very long time I am happy to report that the televised Grammy ceremonies were not about entertainment but truly about music. It seems they finally have reverted back to showcasing honest, talented, singers, songwriters, and musicians. The biggest award, Album of the Year, went to Robert Plant & Alison Krauss for Raising Sand. The duo also picked up an award for Record of the Year ("Please Read the Letter" - co-written with Zep's Jimmy Page), Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album, Best Country Collaboration, and Best Pop Collaboration (the advance single from the album "Gone, Gone, Gone" won a Grammy last year), while Coldplay took Best Rock Album as well as Song of the Year with the title track of their latest release Viva La Vida. Although I was disappointed that two of my favorite songs of this past year didn't win (Paul McCartney - "That Was Me" [nominated for Best Male Pop Vocal], Eagles - "Waiting in the Weeds" [nominated for Best Pop performance by duo or group]) at least they didn't lose to some fabricated money machine. They lost to John Mayer and Coldplay respectively. Mayer also picked up the Grammy for Best Rock Vocal Male, and Bruce Springsteen picked up the award for Best Rock Song ("Girls in their Summer Clothes"). The Eagles did pick up one Grammy, for Best Pop Instrumental for "I Dreamed there was No War," but lost for Best Pop Vocal Album to newcomer Duffy. Kings of Leon took the Grammy for Best Rock Performance and guitarist Dweezil Zappa took Best Rock Instrumental for his interpretation of his late father's "Peaches en Regalia" that was recorded with the help of Steve Vai, Terry Bozzio, and original Mothers of Invention saxophonist Napoleon Murphy Brock. Finally, a couple of Rock's forefathers were celebrated with Grammys: B. B. King - Best Traditional Blues Album, and Pete Seeger - Best Traditional Folk Album, and Dr. John took one home for Best Contemporary Blues Recording. Congratulations to all once again, and congratulations to the Grammys for finally getting their priorities straight.

Sidebar As for all the hoopla about Chris Brown being unable to attend because of his arrest - who cares? I for one was happy that I got to see Al Green duet with Justin Timberlake. And the big deal about M.I.A. appearing with the "Rap Pack" on the day her child was due is national headlines? In reality: 1. I didn't think it was the smartest thing she could have done, 2. Her outfit was ridiculous, and 3. The "Rap Pack" was the worst performance of the night. Hey, this is my opinion - I could be wrong.

Willie Nile Keeps Rockin' New York singer/songwriter Willie Nile is set to unleash his studio follow-up to 2006's outstanding Streets of New York. Entitled House of a Thousand Guitars, the disc is already mixed and pre-orders are being taken at www.WillieNile.com where you can also purchase limited edition merchandise and hand signed discs. Talk on the street is that this is the highlight so far in Willie's recording career.

More information and an exclusive interview with Willie Nile can be read by clicking here.

Jan 16, 2009

"Just thought you'd like to know the Mott the Hoople reunion IS going
to take place on October 2nd & 3rd, 2009 at the HMV Hammersmith Apollo
in London . It will be the original members - Mick, Pete, Phally, Buff
and me. They've asked our esteemed webmaster, Justin, to formulate a
Mott the Hoople site which should be up and running in the near future.
Why are we doing it? I can't speak for the others, but I'm doing it
just to see what it's like. Short of war, death, famine etc. ...it's
ON."

- Ian Hunter

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Today the 2009 nominees were announced, prompting me to send the following letter to them...

Dear Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,

How can you expect real music people to sponsor and support you when you consistently ignore important musicians from the golden era of Rock 'n' Roll and continue to nominate entertainers who have very little to do with Rock? In the past it was Grand Master Flash (questionable). Last year it was Madonna (just because she owns a Les Paul doesn't mean she is Les Paul). This year it is Run DMC (one jam does not make a Rock band).

What happened to Peter Frampton/Humble Pie, Badfinger, Dave Mason, or any of the progressive bands like The Nice, ELP, Yes, Moody Blues, King Crimson, etc.? Those bands consist of real musicians and songwriters who pushed the envelope of Rock 'n' Roll to a new and exciting dimension. And if memory serves me correctly, I don't believe you have ever inducted Eddie Cochran or Dale Hawkins, or Fairport Convention, or Vanilla Fudge, or Johnny Winter, or even the Doobie Brothers.

These omissions lead me to believe that the inductees are voted for by the accountants who receive the checks from record companies who stand to gain from the publicity instead of working musicians who devote their lives and talent to crafting lasting music. I'll start paying attention again when you decide to start opening your ears instead of your pockets.

Sincerely,

Michael A. Cimino

Publisher/Senior Editor/Webmaster

Cottage Views Classic Rock News

Strawbs Tour with O. Wakeman Following their current acoustic tour, the electric lineup of the Strawbs will return with Oliver Wakeman replacing John Hawken on keyboards (see Oct. '08 article below). Oliver is the son of original Strawbs keyboard wiz, and Yes superstar, Rick Wakeman. The band have already booked dates in Canada in March with dates in the UK and Italy in May. Meanwhile, Rick continues his rehearsals for the upcoming Six Wives of Henry VIII Tour (see below). Erstwhile Strawb Brian Willoughby and girlfriend Catherine Craig have a new album in the works and are currently on tour. "Rejected Lover," a video of a duet between Catherine and Mary Hopkin (with Brian on lead guitar) can now be seen online by clicking here. For announced tour dates go to the Strawbs official website.

Rick Wakeman & the Six Wives Keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman (Yes, Strawbs) has announced that he will perform The Six Wives of Henry VIII on May 1-2, 2009 with an extended band, orchestra, choir, and narrator. The concerts will be held at Hampton Court Palace in London and will most likely be filmed and recorded for posterity. Wakeman has also written three new compositions for the evening, entitled "Tudor Overture," "Defender of the Faith," and "Tudor Rock." The Six Wives of Henry VIII has sold in excess of 15 million copies since its release in 1972.

Delaney Bramlett RIP Singer/Songwriter Delaney Bramlett, who worked with superstars Eric Clapton and George Harrison amongst others, passed away Saturday, Dec. 27, from complications following gallbladder surgery. He was 69. Throughout his career Bramlett wrote songs that went on to success for many artists, including the million seller "Superstar" for the Carpenters, "Let it Rain" (Clapton), and "Never Ending Song of Love" (Ray Charles). His own recordings with then wife Bonnie (an ex-Ikette) are considered classics in many circles, the most popular being On Tour with Eric Clapton (#29, 1970). His most recent recording was A New Kind of Blues, released on the independent label Magnolia Gold.

Apple Legacy Continues Apple Records collectors will be pleased to be informed that the third (and final) installment of Apple Publishing demos has been released. Entitled Treacle Toffee World, the disc contains rare tracks from Fire (featuring future Strawbs guitarist Dave Lambert), The Iveys, and Grapefruit among others. Additionally, former Apple Records star Mary Hopkin has opened the archives and released a Christmas single, entitled Snowed Under. Bonus tracks on the disc include the long out of print songs "Mary had a Baby" and "Cherry Tree Carol," both originally released in 1972. Hopkin's official website, www.MaryHopkin.co.uk, also has set up a label Mary Hopkin Music which offers previously unreleased recordings, including Live at the Royal Festival Hall 1972, Valentine, and Recollections. Paul McCartney announced plans to issue The Beatles' 14 minute experimental track "Carnival of Light" that was recorded at the beginning of the Sgt. Pepper sessions. Meanwhile, McCartney has teamed up with Youth once again and released another disc under the alias Fireman. The new disc, Electric Arguments, has been receiving rave reviews in the UK (read review here). It is the first time the duo have recorded together in 10 years and the first to include full on vocals. Dhani Harrison, the son of the late George Harrison, has released his first proper studio disc, entitled You are Here, under the allonym Thenewno2. The disc was recorded with musician Oli Hecks at Harrison's Friar Park, where his famous father recorded several classics.

Dennis Yost of the Classics IV Singer Dennis Yost passed away of respiratory failure on December 7. He was 65. Yost, famous for the hits "Spooky," "Stormy," and "Traces of Love," had been in and out of nursing homes since 2005 due to a brain injury he received in a fall. Band-mate and producer Buddy Buie publicly stated, "Dennis had an incredible voice. I am deeply saddened by his passing."

Mitch Mitchell RIP The sole surviving member of the Jimi Hendrix Experience has passed away. John "Mitch" Mitchell died of natural causes on Nov. 12 at the age of 61. He had just wrapped up a tribute tour to his former bandleader with Band of Gypsys bassist Billy Cox and guitarists Eric Johnson and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

Robert Plants Just Says No Vocalist Robert Plant has issued a statement that says, "Contrary to a spate of recent reports, Robert Plant will not be touring or recording with Led Zeppelin." And so ends the dark rumors of the full-on Led Zeppelin reunion. That is NOT to say that guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones, and drummer Jason Bonham, will not be working together. While appearing on BBC Radio in late October, Mr. Jones said, "We are trying out a couple of singers. It's sounding great and we want to get on and get out there." Jones also confirmed that the group plan on recording with a new line-up and pointed out "There's no point in finding another Robert. It's got to be right. We don't want to be our own tribute band." No further details of who auditioned have been given. Yardbirds (Mark III) anyone?

In related news, Jimmy Page is one of the featured guitarists in the new documentary It Might Get Loud. The film, directed by Davis Guggenheim, also stars U2's The Edge, and Jack White. It is due for distribution early next year.

Mac Attack Lindsey Buckingham has announced that Fleetwood Mac (sans Christine McVie) will embark on another full-on tour this spring. His latest solo album, Gift of Screws, has just hit shelves and features Mick Fleetwood and John McVie on two tracks.

File Under The Covers Eurythmic Dave Stewart has teamed up with sex-toy maker Jimmyjane on a line of vibrators that will be distributed through his Rock Fabulous Merchandising company. Little did we know, Stewart also owns a chain of erotic boutiques called Coco der Mer. The new vibrator will be available in several packages, including one that is housed in a book on the history of sex, another as a stand alone chrome version, or a deluxe model that is embedded with diamonds (SRP: $2,000). He said the product is for people "discerning enough to want the very best whether it is cloths, alcohol, music, or vibrators." To help launch the vibrator Stewart has written a new song called "Let's Do It Again." Now I understand that video for "Sweet Dreams."

QUEEN & PAUL RODGERS RETURN Paul Rodgers, late of Bad Company and Free, teamed up with ex-Queen guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor a few years back for some stadium touring and a live album. Now the trio have released their first studio recording, titled The Cosmos Rock. While Queen bassist John Deacon continues to commit to his "retirement," drummer Roger Taylor projected that the new album "will be a creative rebirth for us."

Saw Doctors Hit Number One The Celtic Rock Group Saw Doctors topped the Irish Music Charts the third week of October with a Rock-ed up version of the Sugababes tune "About You Now." It is the first time the group has hit number one in 17 years. The song, which was recorded as a fundraiser for the Salerno Cystic Fibrosis Fund in Galway, has raised over 10,000 Euro. The Saw Doctors begin a new tour in November. For more information, visit their website SawDoctors.com.

Strawbs celebrate 40 years of Recording The Hero & Heroine lineup of the Strawbs have gone back into the recording studio to produce a disc of all new material. It marks the groups 40th anniversary as recording stars. The new disc, entitled The Broken Hearted Bride debuted on concert stages in the US beginning with a show at the legendary BB King Blues Club in New York City's Times Square. The first 1,000 fans to pre-order the disc through their Witchwood Records website will not only get their name included in the packaging but will also receive a newly recorded live CD of leader Dave Cousins - First Solo Tour. Meanwhile, the missing titles from the A&M years have finally been re-issued (Strawbs, Dragonfly, Nomadness). Each include bonus tracks. Additionally, the group have released a CD and DVD of an electric show recorded in March of 2006 entitled Lay Down with the Strawbs. These two discs will more than likely mark the last recording with keyboardist John Hawken as he has (according to the official website) decided that it is time to give up the rigors of life on the road. In a prepared statement, Mr. Hawken said, "I regard the last 4 years as an unexpected bonus, filled with wonderful music and a lot of laughter. This is not something I give up lightly, but each year I've found touring more exhausting than the year before and my recent health problem finally decided the issue. It's time to go. I wish the remaining band members every success and happiness in their musical ventures. I hope we meet up again somewhere down the road." In related news, John Ford - one of the 2 Strawbs bass players - has released two tracks available for download from his MySpace site. A music video for one of the tracks, "Big Hit in India," is planned with a full length album of the same name to follow. The disc will be available from Ford's label Whole Shot Records. Click here for interviews and link to Strawbs photos.

Ronnie Wood has reportedly checked into a rehabilitation center (again) for alcohol abuse. Following a ten day binge with a young waitress (18 year old Russian bombshell Ekaterina Ivanova) the 61 year old Rolling Stones guitarist got a phone call from Mrs. Wood saying it's time to pack the bags. A spokeswoman for Mr. Wood said, "His close family and friends say he is seeking help and look forward to his recovery."

The Return of The Beatles original Drummer Pete Best Cottage

Views just received a preview copy of the brand new Pete Best Band single "Broken." Very little information was attached, but the sound is absolutely fab... reminding us of Oasis in Melodic Soft Rock mode, and I mean that in the very best sense of the words. This is what we know right now... The lineup on the forthcoming album, Haymans Green (due next month) is Pete and brother Roag on drums, Phil Melia - lead guitar, vocals, Paul Parry - bass, vocals, and Tony Flynn - rhythm guitar, vocals.

For Cottage Views exclusive interview with the One and Only Pete Best click here.

The Family that plays together... A new disc, entitled The Heavy Circles is starting to get some notoriety for catchy Pop-Rock tunes. It's no wonder - the band is actually Paul Simon, his son Harper, and wife Edie Brickell. Guest appearances

fromSean Lennon and Martha Wainwright add to the mix. Another disc to look for is from Heidi Jo Hines, the daughter of ex-Moody Blues and Wings guitarist Denny Laine and the late model/singer Jo Jo Laine (pictured right). Advance hype is she is being compared to Janis Joplin and is in great demand.

Dave Clark 5 Update Just weeks before being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, DC5 keyboardist/vocalist Mike Smith died of pneumonia on Feb. 28. He was 64 years old. Smith had never fully recovered from a fall in 2003 that left him partially paralyzed. The spinal cord injury had led to many complications, including the chest infection which he eventually succumbed to. His agent, Margo Lewis, said "He was extremely excited and honored to have been inducted [to the Hall of Fame]. I am glad that he will be remembered as a hall of famer, because he was in so many ways."

Winwood Returns Steve Winwood returns with his latest solo album next month, Nine Lives. The single, "Dirty City," featuring a scorching guitar solo from Eric Clapton, has already been released to radio, and the two old friends/superstars are on the road playing to sold out and rave reviews (trust me, I was there!).

Kinks to Kontinue? During a recent interview promoting his latest solo album Ray Davies disclosed that he desired to reform the Kinks with his brother Dave, stating "It was easy to be a Kink, hard to be me." Working Man's Cafe, the new 12 track solo disc, has been available in the UK for some time and has now finally been released in the states. Ray is doing some touring despite complications from the gunshot wound he took from a mugger in New Orleans 4 years ago. To read the Cottage Views interviews with the brothers Davies click here.

Country Rockin' Border Town is a new compilation disc that brings together the very best of The Souther Hillman Furay Band and music from five J D Souther solo albums.

Folk-Rockin' The Gathering (Legends of Folk-Rock) are an ad-hoc supergroup of seasoned veterans of the UK Folk-Rock scene, featuring Jerry Donahue (Fairport Convention, Fotheringay), Rick Kemp (Steeleye Span), Ray Jackson (Lindisfarne), Clive Bunker (Jethro Tull, Pentangle), and Doug Morter (Albion Band). The group is fronted by vocalist Kristina Donahue (the daughter of Jerry). Currently on a tour of the UK, it is uncertain if the group will enter the studio to record although a hand-full of new songs have already been written.

Alongside John Mellencamp, Leonard Cohen, and the Ventures, the Dave Clark 5 will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 10th. They also announced that their long out of print catalog will be reissued shortly. Disco diva Madonna gets the nod this year too. Now what about some real rockers like Badfinger?

Now that the holiday blitz is over, and the record companies are (once again) crying the blues, we have much to celebrate as good, good music is out there for those who seek it.

Things from England: Ringo is back, baby! with Liverpool 8 - co-produced with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. I've been saying for years that Dave S. should team up with some Liverpudlians - shouldn't Joey Molland be next?

Yes bassist Chris Squire has re-issued his solo album Fish out of Water that was recorded at the height of Yes-fame in 1975. It now contains bonus tracks and a DVD featuring rare promo clips.

Speaking of Prog-Art-Rock, check out Odin Dragonfly - Offerings - it is the debut solo outing from Heather Findlay & Angela Gordon of Mostly Autumn fame. Meanwhile, the group have a limited edition new disc, Glass Shadows, available through their website.

Dear Mr. Fantasy: A Celebration for Jim Capaldi is an excellent tribute to the late/great lyricist/drummer from Traffic. This concert recording is also available on DVD and contains performances by Steve Winwood, Pete Townshend, Joe Walsh, Cat Stevens, Paul Weller, and more!

Your Time is Gonna Come - The Roots of Led Zeppelin 1964-1969 is a 25 track disc exploring tracks that Page, Plant, Jones, and Bonham performed on as session men, including hard to find rarities (J. P. Jones solo single "Baja"), notable tracks by Marc Bolan (T. Rex), P. J. Proby, Screaming Lord Sutch, and others.

Clapton is God - The Cream of Early Eric is a 40 track double disc featuring Slowhand as a Yardbird, a Bluesbreaker, an Immediate Allstar, and backing blues legend Sonny Boy Williamson.

From the Beginning is a 6 disc set from Emerson, Lake & Palmer that features all of their memorable performances (some remixed), a number of unreleased tracks, and an entire concert performance from 1972.

The end of 2007 is shaping up to be the best holiday music shopping in some time as there are now several top-drawer recordings available, including Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band - Magic, Neil Young - Chrome Dreams II, Marc Cohn - Join the Parade (featuring Danny Kortchmar and Jim Keltner), John Fogerty - Revival, Ray Davies - Working Man's Cafe, Bill Medley - Damn Near Righteous (first solo disc since the passing of his partner in the Righteous Brothers Bobby Hatfield), James Taylor - One Man Band, Graham Parker - Don't Tell Columbus, Ian Hunter - Shrunken Heads, Heart - Dreamboat Annie Live, Levon Helm - Dirt Farmer, Eagles - Long Road Out of Eden, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss - Raising Sand, Debbie Harry of Blondie - Necessary Evil, Melissa Etheridge - The Awakening, plus first time ever solo discs from Heart's Ann Wilson - Hope and Glory, and original Goth Queen Siouxsie Sioux - Mantaray.

Be on the lookout for a 20th Anniversary edition of U2's Joshua Tree (double disc plus DVD), an expanded re-issue of Led Zeppelin's The Song Remains the Same, The Very Best of Mick Jagger (available with or without the DVD), The Monkees - Headquarters (expanded to 2 discs), and an archival release from Stephen Stills - Just Roll Tape.

For the aurally impaired check out new box set DVDs from The Beatles - Help, Paul McCartney - The McCartney Years, Tom Petty - Running Down a Dream, and The Who - Amazing Journey.

Coming up in January is a new disc from Ringo Starr - Liverpool 8 - that was recorded with Eurythmics' Dave Stewart and the threat of a new disc from Oasis.

The late Frank Zappa has had a street named after him in Germany. Street 13, on the eastern outskirts of Berlin, is the location of Orwo Haus - a former film factory that now houses practice studios for musicians - was re-named Frank-Zappa-Strasse.

Brian Ferry has got it going on, and now so does Leslie West & Corky Laing - that is a new disc full of Bob Dylan interpretations that can only be best described as the title has it - Mountain - Masters of War. The 12 track disc has the Mountain-men rounded out by guest appearances from bassist Kenny Aronson, Gov't Mule/Allman Brothers guitarist Warren Haynes, and Ozzy Osbourne - who contributes vocals to the title track. "Blowing in the Wind" receives both a "heavy" and "acoustic" treatment and "Like a Rolling Stone" is just Corky Laing laying down a steady beat while rapping out the lyrics. No light affair, Masters of War is in-your-face Mountain as they are best remembered - rocking hard. The new disc is out on West's own record label that he named after his current love interest, Shay Garr. West said, "It's called 'Big Rack Records' because my fiancée has a nice, big rack." Amen.

The Return of Joni: Following Paul McCartney's grand new disc on the Starbucks label is Joni Mitchell's first disc of new material in 9 years. Entitled Shine, the disc is self produced and includes a musical interpretation of the Rudyard Kipling poem "If" as well as a new version of her 70's hit "Big Yellow Taxi." Expect heavy promotion on the disc. Mr. McCartney's disc reached #3 in the Billboard charts with the help of Starbucks in-store promotions.

Newsbytes: Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen continue to collaborate with Free/Bad Company front-man Paul Rodgers - expect a disc of new material sometime in 2007. Rod Stewart and percussionist Evelyn Glennie have been decorated by the British Empire for their contribution to music. Replicas of Beatles' album covers will grace British postage stamps.

Late summer/early autumn cast many new discs of repute our way - including great works from Dylan, Petty, Cheap Trick, and Sammy Hagar that got substantial airplay, but if you missed these - check out: Carl Perkins & Friends - Blue Suede Shoes, A Rockabilly Session featuring Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Ringo Starr and Dave Edmunds (yeah, it's a long title but worth every cent!). This is the long awaited soundtrack to the television special taped back in 1985. Also, don't miss John Waite - Downtown Journey of a Heart (new songs and re-recorded hits, including a duet with Alison Krauss on "Missing You"), a CD single from Annie Haslam with Magenta - Night and Day, Steve Hackett - Wild Orchids, Mudbone's debut album recorded with Eurythmic Dave Stewart (check out their groovy colab on the Alfie soundtrack), Tony Joe White - Uncovered, former Fairport Convention/Trader Horne vocalist Judy Dyble - The Whorl (featuring a guest appearance by Robert Fripp), and a third solo disc from ex-Rockpile guitarist Billy Bremner - No If's, Buts & Maybes. The Angel Air label has re-issued Don't Blame Me... I Just Play Bass the 1998 solo album from Foghat/Savoy Brown bassist Tony Stevens and has dug a couple of gems out of the archives, including Mott the Hoople - Live at the Fillmore West, San Francisco 1970 and Bad Company - Live in Albequerque 1976. The Electric Light Orchestra get the repackage treatment for their first two albums - now expanded to 3 CDs to include alternate mixes, out-takes, and demos of what was to come. Another re-issue of note is Sweeney Todd - If wishes were horses... Beggars would Ride which features the vocals of then 16 year old Bryan Adams who replaced the original singer Nick Gilder. Finally, word has it that Vanilla Fudge are back in the studio and are recording a tribute to Led Zeppelin tentatively titled The Song Almost Remains the Same.

Celtic Chanteuse Loreena McKennitt Returns The long awaited follow up to 1997's Book of Secrets is close at hand, as Ms. McKennitt revealed "we have finished our most recent sojourn in the studio" in a recent statement. The disc, entitled An Ancient Muse, was recorded at Peter Gabriel's Real World

Loreena McKennitt - An Ancient Muse.jpg (64472 bytes)

Studios in England, and features long-standing colleagues Brian Hughes and Donald Quan as well as appearances from cellist Caroline Lavelle and violinist Hugh Marsh, viol group Fretwork, and Norwegian musician Annbjørg Lien who performs on traditional instruments hardanger fiddle and nyckelharpe. In the statement, Ms. McKennitt said, "Through my music, I have tried in my own humble way to explore many facets of history and humanity through the strong belief that there is more to bind us together than tear us apart. I would like to add my voice to the many others around the world who come from various religious and non-religious persuasions who believe that the voice of sensitivity, moderation, tolerance, forgiveness and love is the one which must prevail. Hopefully we can make sure that raising our voice for peace is heard."

Sept. 8 For the first time in thirty years Bob Dylan has topped the charts with the #1 smash Modern Times. While having picked up several awards in recent years this is the first time that a Dylan record has hit number 1 since 1976's Desire.

Aug. 13 Almost 37 years to the day, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young returned to the site of the original Woodstock Music & Arts Festival for one of the most energized, and politically motivated, concerts of their career. It was sold out.

"I made a whole record about the war, and some people are still stupid enough to say I did it for the money. They're out of touch. It's about a fucking war that people are getting killed in." Neil Young

Arthur Lee After a long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Arthur Lee of the influential psychedelic 60's group Love passed away on Thursday, August 3. He was 61.

Billy Preston RIP Keyboard player extraordinaire Billy Preston passed away on Tuesday June 6 after a long battle with kidney failure. Preston had received a kidney transplant in 2002, but has been on dialysis since the kidney failed last year. In November a heart infection left him in a coma from which he never recovered. He was 59 years old. Preston, who worked with some of the greatest musicians of all time, including Ray Charles, Little Richard, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones, will best be remembered as the true "Fifth Beatle" for his work during the recording of the Get Back Sessions. He is also the only musician ever to be credited on a Beatles record sleeve when the single for Get Back/Don't Let me Down was billed as The Beatles with Billy Preston.

Strawbs Special Aired on Cottage Views May 2, Cottage Views Classic Rock Music Hour, hosted by Michael A. Cimino, broadcasted its one hour radio special dedicated to the music and history of Great Britain’s progressive Folk-Rock legends the Strawbs. The show has been archived for computer-listeners to return to at will.

Cimino presented a selection of music from all facets of their career and solo ventures. “With the wealth of material that has recently been released through Witchwood Media it is undeniable that this music deserves re-investigation,” he said. “Since the band returned to full-time work some five years ago they have been more prolific than the most successful artists, including people like Bruce Springsteen.” The show also featured snippets of interviews that Mr. Cimino conducted with principle Dave Cousins, as well as band members Dave Lambert and John Ford.

Cottage Views Classic Rock Music Hour is an internet-streaming radio show that is an extension of Cottage Views. Log on to www.RocklandWorldRadio.com. Cimino says the premise of the radio show is “the best independently released Rock from vintage artists.”

Elton John Raises Money for AIDS Approximately 10,000 articles of clothing donated by Elton John raised $700,000 for the Elton John Aids Foundation. Included in the collection was the polka-dot suit worn by the singer at the 2001 Grammy Awards, and outfits designed by Versace and Louis Vuitton. The charity has become an annual event held in New York.

Cottage Views Hits the Airwaves After appearing on RocklandWorldRadio.com as a guest, Cottage Views Editor/Publisher Michael A. Cimino has been offered his own time slot. Cimino kicked off his show on March 7 by playing "John George Ringo & Paul" from Liverpool Express, the shows un-official theme song, and continued with music from Badfinger's Joey Molland, the Strawbs, and other recordings that are not tied to any major label. Rockland World Radio is an internet radio program that is heard around the world celebrating Music, Art & Culture. Just prior to the show, Mr. Cimino said, "I've always supported the underdogs in Rock 'n' Roll, and it's time that this music is valued for what it is - great!"

More Strawbs! As if six new releases in little more than four years wasn't enough, the Strawbs have just released two more discs from the archives. Hot on the heals of Painted Sky (the brand new acoustic disc) comes Recollection and a new compilation entitled The Witchwood Project. Recollection is a digitally mixed live recording dating back to 1970 that features the historic line-up of Dave Cousins, Tony Hooper, Richard Hudson and John Ford, and keyboard maestro Rick Wakeman prior to his joining Yes. The Witchwood Project compiles new, old, and rare Strawbs tracks alongside new signings to the Witchwood Media label, including a track from Dead Like Harry, who have just recently received the Best New Band award from the UK's Rock Society. In addition, look for the Strawbs' Heartbreak Hill sometime this spring. Heartbreak Hill is a disc the Strawbs recorded in 1978 but was left unheard until a limited edition compact disc of the tapes was issued in 1995. The new "Platinum Edition" features a new digital remix, and by the sample that is included on The Witchwood Project it should prove nothing short of spectacular.

Andy Timmons Band Returns Andy Timmons, who scored big on the Cottage Views poll with his tribute to George Harrison ("Slips Away") has returned with his first unified band effort since leaving 80's heavy hitters Danger Danger. The new disc (to be released on Favored Nations in May), which was recorded with his steady sidekicks bassist Mike Daane and drummer Mitch Marine, contains ten proper tracks as well as one hidden bonus track. Of the bonus track, described as a 'showcase of chicken-fried guitar picking,' Timmons said, "You feel like you're about to run off the road at any moment when you listen to this thing. That's why it's called "Headed For the Ditch." It was a blast to record and we just had to put it on as a surprise at the end." Also included is "Gone," Timmons' tribute to the victims of September 11, 2001.

Held up Willie Nile disc released After over a year of delays Willie Nile has finally released Streets of New York, his first album in six years. Assisting Nile on the recording is Cottage Views' former MVP Andy York, the Wallflowers' Jacob Dylan and Rami Jaffee, as well as Bob Dylan sidekick Larry Campbell. Praise for the disc has already come from some high ranking officials. Bono was quoted, "a great album...the songs all stand on their own." Graham Parker added, "Streets of New York is a real gem...every track a winner," while Lou Reed said flat out, "a great album." Ian Hunter shouted, "Well done!" and Little Steven said, "Willie Nile is so good I can't believe he's not from New Jersey!" The disc is on the brand new 00:02:59 label (pronounced "two minutes fifty-nine" - taken from the Clash tune "Hitsville UK").

U2 the big Winners at Grammy Awards Irish Rockers U2 cleaned up at the Grammy Awards on Feb. 8, taking home 5 awards. They won big for Album of the year, Song of the year ("Sometimes you can't make it on your Own"), Rock Album of the year, Rock Song of the year ("City of Blinding Lights"), and best Rock Performance of the year ("Sometimes you can't make it on your Own"). Additionally, the Producer of the Year award went to Steve Lillywhite for producing U2's latest sensation, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb. Other Classic Rockers who received awards were Bruce Springsteen (Best Solo Rock Vocal for "Devils & Dust"), Bob Dylan (Best Compilation Soundtrack for No Direction Home, and Best Long Form Video for No Direction Home), Delbert McClinton (Best Contemporary Blues Album for Cost of Living), and B B King and Friends (Best Traditional Blues Album for 80).

U2 claim 3 Awards In a ceremony in their hometown of Dublin, Ireland, U2 were awarded three Meteor Ireland Music Awards. The group, represented by bassist Adam Clayton, took home best Irish Band, best Live Performance, and best Irish Album. At the same ceremony The Pogues received a lifetime achievement award.

Status Quo celebrate 40 years with new disc and DVD Already available in the UK, Sanctuary Records have now released Status Quo's latest disc, The Party Ain't Over Yet, in the United States. The disc is the groups 27th album in a 40 year career span. Coinciding with the release of the audio CD is a two disc DVD of the same name that contains footage of the band recording their latest effort as well as archival promotional films from throughout their career. Although the Quo's recent tour to promote the disc was cut short due to emergency surgery on guitarist Rick Parfitt's throat his recovery is eminent, and according to their website "The Party Ain't Over Yet - it's just getting started!"

Hall of Famers Record the Blues Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Dion and Eric Burdon will both release Blues oriented efforts in the new year. While Burdon enlists a full band, Dion has chosen to stick to his Martin guitar accompanied by sparse percussion and little else. Both discs are due in January 2006.

Mike Gibbins RIP Badfinger’s original drummer, Mike Gibbins, passed away in his sleep on

October 4, 2005, leaving Joey Molland the only surviving member of the original Badfinger band. In a letter to the Badfinger Boogie online group, Joey wrote “he was much, much more than just the drummer from that band… let’s not forget him, and what he stood for… God bless you Mike.” The entire letter can be read on badfingerboogie2@yahoogroups.com.

Left: Mike Gibbins, thumbnails: Mike and Cottage Views' Michael A. Cimino, Mike and wife Ellie

Cottage Views Classic Rock News After more than 10 years of publishing to print, Cottage Views has transformed to Classic Rock News from Cottage Views and will now be sent via e-mail. Those wishing to sign up for this free service can send e mail address to List@cottageviews.com. Be sure to type "join" in the RE: box.

Classic Rock News Publisher Michael A. Cimino has yet to find a home for Badfinger and Beyond - The Authorized Biography of Joey Molland. Discussion of self-publishing is being considered. A database for pre-ordering is being compiled at BadfingerBook@cottageviews.com