the Rock Report

IN THE NEWS: The Miracles, Rush and Village People are gonna be gettin’ that famous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next year. (This was announced Thursday), along with actor and occasional-Beach Boy John Stamos. BTW, didja know Tinkerbell made the list but Tarzan’s chimp, Cheeta didn’t– though fans wanted him? (”tough break … for the Cheeta” oh, c’mon … it wuz a sonnng!)

THE LAUGHTER IS STILLED FOR A MOMENT due, in part, to the death yesterday of comic legend George Carlin. His stage persona was centered on a rebellious, devil-may-care attitude toward the genre — for example, his “seven words” made headlines around the entertainment industry; his pokes at the political machines were legendary; his “stream-of-consciousness” style of humor has been emulated by many in the field. We’re gonna miss this “Hippy-Dippy Weatherman” — a real gentleman offstage, and a truly unique (and rib-splittingly funny) comedian on. RIP, George … we’ll miss ya!

And congrats to Paul Anka, who’s getting hitched for the second time on July 26. He’s 66, she’s 37; they’ve been living together for four years and have a 2-1/2 year old son. (Can he say he did it “My Way”, “Her Way” or “The Kid’s Way”?) Anyway, we hope it outlasts his first one (37 years! waitaminnit; he’ll be … 103 by then! Well …)

FORE SOME FORE-THOUGHT …

Yep, The Fore has a new blog that’s just started publishing tonight (Friday)! Though it’s a bit sketchy at first (The Relic does the intro, along with some news quotes about the band), it’s gonna be one where you’ll learn all about the lads and their journey to the top!! Now, it’ll be updated at least three times weekly, so be sure ya bookmark it, and come back often (and bring all yer friends! Their new site is at theforeband.blogspot.com. Ya just gotta dig it!!

Oh … speakin’ of the band, here’s a vid made by a fan during their High Street performance in Sutton. They’re singin’ about their favorite girl, Little Louisa:

Y’know, The Relic’s known the lads for awhile now, and it never ceases to amaze me: Whether they’re on the Sutton High Street, The Cavern Club or on-stage in front of 35,000 at the SE England Fireworks Display, they give 110% to every show and every fan, no matter how many are in the audience! This is the mark of true superstars!

A PERSONAL PROBLEM (Pt. 2) AYBS?

Oh … and about the comedy vids I’ve been runnin’ here: One of the Rockiteers wrote (re: the Fry & Laurie vignettes): “It would be cool if Craig Fergusson (sic) was to hook up with Hugh Lauie (sic) theyd make a great comedy team.” Yep … gotta agree. But Hugh Laurie would make it a bit better! lol

One more thing: WELCOME HOME, PETE DINTINO!! I had a chance to talk with “Shadow” a bit earlier today, and he’s sounding fantastic! And, because ya asked how she is, I’ll tell ya that Lin just recently broke her shoulder, but is still helping others; this time, it’s her grandmother! Is this young lady an angel or what?? Totally amazing … and a great part of the miracle recovery that’s still underway with Pete (presently, he’s doin’ a lot of physical therapy)!

Okay … that’s it for now, but stay tuned — the Relic’s got more comin’ up in just a few. Until then, remember:

Keep your nose to the wind, your eyes on the skies, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

THIS IS A SPECIAL REPORT FROM RELICNEWS:

The dude on yer left? No, it isn’t Bobby Rydell (though he looked a little like it in this pic).

Actually, it’s my younger brother, Dick, back in 1969. He was also the drummer in my band for awhile, until he gave up the stix to get into photography. As he grew, he became a helluva nice guy, very down-home, and a true “family-man” (yep, he was a bit rowdy way-back-when!).

But, last night, that warm heart was stilled, when my sis called to inform me that he’d just died of a sudden, massive heart attack at the age of 54. Didn’t even make it to the hospital …

Now, there’s a lotta reflectin’ that I could do at this point. But, in the interest of time and space, lemme just share a few smiles about my younger bro, Charles Richard Hinson:

When mama and daddy brought him home from the hospital, two-year-old Chucky (and don’t call me that unless ya love me, k?) took a hankerin’ to his hair, and started lickin’ it regularly. When he died, Dick was the only one of us Hinson boys who wasn’t bald on top! (as an aside, didja know that cow spit can keep ya from goin’ bald? Is there a connection? Nobody around here knows … or wants to know …)

Once, when Steve (my youngest bro) and Jimmy (my cousin and bassist) were in K-Mart&#0174 with Daddy, and in a very narrow aisle, Dick … er, “cut some cheese” (no offense, Mousers!) and, since there were people comin’ into the aisle, took off running with Jimmy and Steve in tow! That left Daddy with a terrible scent wafting through the aisle … and some accusing looks from the shoppers!

In 1964, I was on my bed, strummin’ my brand-new nylon-stringed Sears&#0174 Silvertone&#8482 guitar (it sounded great, even without the &#8482 !), when I heard a bloodcurdling yell from my 11-year-old brother: “HEY! COME WATCH THIS!!” After I uncurdled my blood, I ran in to the living room where he had flipped the channel to the first episode of The Lloyd Thaxton Show.
Man, I was riveted. After sobering up, I was still enthralled by this crazy man with the groovy music (records and in-the-flesh acts!) and dancing all around him. So What?? I’ve become a lifelong LT fan … and am blessed to know him now as a cherished friend as well!

During our last song at a show in Pineville, NC in late ‘66 (the Astronauts/Monkees’ Steppin’ Stone), Dick started to show his “Keith Moon” side during the last bridge. His excuse: “I got so caught up in it, I didn’t know what I was doin’!” The kid had a great musical future if he’d taken it …

in fact, he built his own stage with about a dozen-plus speakers built-in! Now, remember: this was small-town, quiet-as-a-mouse town that’d make Pleasant Valley (Sunday) look like Highway to Hell!

Yup … only used the stage one time …

He wrote me constantly while I was in the Army, and, though in later years we rarely saw each other (even drifted apart in our philosophy), he always told me I was the best writer and rocker in “these parts”. Even as late as 1999, when we got together at mama’s funeral, he told me “you know enough to make a LIVIN’ with what you know about rock …”

Now, there’s one more thing I’ve GOTTA stress:

Over the years,Dick became a heavy smoker and didn’t care much for exercising. That, along with our family’s history of heart trouble and high blood pressure, undoubtedly contributed to the untimely passing of this wunderkund of the family.

So … (pass this along to EVERY person ya know:

FROM THE HEART OF THE ROCK RELIC:

If your family (going back at least two generations) has had even the SLIGHTEST hint of heart trouble in its history, GET A REGULAR PHYSICAL, stressing the cardio!! It’s VERY important! The Relic has one every six months like clockwork!

and KEEP CLOSE CHECK ON THE BP!! (and I ain’t talking “baked potato” here, yardbirds!) Average is 120/80. Yours may differ, but be SURE to keep it in the “safe zone”!

Keep your CHOLESTEROL level down (at least the “bad” cholesterols!). The Relic is free of those (well, almost), and my regularly-lower-than-average BP is stable!

EXERCISE!! It doesn’t only help your cardiovascular system, but the endorphins can work miracles for the moods! The Relic pounds the pavement for at LEAST ten miles a day, rain or shine, incidentally.

If you smoke, QUIT … or at LEAST cut it down by two-thirds!! Besides, you’ll be controlling “it”, as opposed to “it” controlling you! (Huh?? Only when I’m on fire!)

EVERY one of you Rockiteers is dear to The Relic … fantastic in your own right!! And your lives are valuable … to you and the ones you love.

So keep it ALIVE, okay??

THIS HAS BEEN A SPECIAL REPORT FROM RELICNEWS. WE RESUME OUR REGULAR PROGRAMMING ON MONDAY.

Okay … I know the band on the left (or two-thirds of ‘em. Can’t see the drummer …) is probably foreign to a few Rockiteers here in the states, but they were the foundation of some very influential rock pioneers of the early Sixties.

The Pirates (Mick Green -guitar, Johnny Spence - bass and [until his retirement in 2005 due to heart trouble] Frank Farley -drums) backed the late, great Johnny Kidd (given name: Frederick Heath) with superb, hard-drivin’ hits like Please, Don’t Touch and Shakin’ All Over.
Though the band started as a skiffle group in the mid-1950s (Bats Heath and The Vampires), an engineer at Abbey Road Studios gave them the name Johnny Kidd and The Pirates. When Kidd’s first lineup left to form The Tornadoes (”Telstar” was their hit), in 1962 he added Farley, Spence and Green.

Now, I mentioned “influential”. During the first years, their self-penned songs and blues-rock sound inspired greats like The Yardbirds, The Who and a young guitarist who was a great fan of guitarist Green, Eric Clapton! (Wanna know why Slow Hand was inspired?? Just check out Saturday Night Shootout on The Pirates’ Skull Wars LP! Just imagine Clapton doing that song!) (Oh … the pic to yer right is one taken at their flat in 1960. It’s Frank, Johnny and Mick during Christmas.)
Today, the guys are still ravin’ it up in clubs and shows in both the UK and Europe. They draw legions of fans who are eager to hear the legends growl out the faves like Don’t Munchen It, Please Don’t Touch and, of course, Shakin’ All Over. And their latest CD, Skullduggery, is becoming very much in demand! If ya get a chance to buy one, I’d highly recommend it!!

GONE, GONE, GONE

Well, it’s not technically a vid (the one I had planned for this space was their spot on Shindig!, but … well, with the horns, background singers and dancers, it just … wasn’t … Everlys!), but it’s my favorite song from the brothers (in fact, my band usedta cover it back-in-the-day. After performing it, we were asked to consider changin’ our name to The Butchers for some reason ahem …)! So here’s the song, Gone, Gone, Gone, so “stay, stay, stay” and groove awhile:

IN THE NEWS …

Two members of Kenny Rogers’ backup band were robbed at gunpoint this past Friday (the 13th, of course!) in Antigua. The two dudes who did it were only teens, and only got a camera, their credit cards and about 150 bucks. Yep … they were busted!!

Can you believe that some guy who claims to be the late C&W legend, Eddy Arnold’s, illegitimate kid wants to have the singer exhumed so he can prove he’s Eddy’s son? Uh-huh … totally stupid! He said he wants authorities to check Arnold’s DNA (hey … there are more ways to do that than disturbing a grave! Let the man rest in peace!!)

THE FORE — RADIO INTERVIEW (and more)

The lads have a short radio interview you can hear at this site (check the right side of your screen). You can also download it to your desktop and play it at your own convenience!
They’ve also got some new merchandise for sale (you’ve gotta check out their outtasite posters! Check their site for more details!

Now, coming up, the band’s gonna be playin’ June 21 at Scoutabout 2008 in London, followed the next weekend by a gig at the High Street in Surrey, and then a few private gigs. July and August look like busy months for the lads, and if you can get to any of their performances, GO FOR IT!!

Hey .. remember when I toldja about that little girl who sang along with the songs in the lads’ 50-minute set?
Maybe this is the girl (I know they’ll lemme know!). But, whether it’s a youngster of seven or eight, an excited teen or a person as old as 93 (hey … it happened! She liked the band and bought a copy of Black & White!), there’s no doubt that the UK’s got Fore Fever! And, soon, it’ll be headin’ straight to the states (already, thousands are comin’ down with the Fever!! Catch it!).

CLEARING THE “BUMPY” ROAD

Look … we’ve all had acne as kids, right? Remember those little bumps, blackheads and bothers that bugged the heck out of us startin’ around 13 or so? Well, today’s teens (and adults, for that matter) still have that problem.
We wanna eliminate ‘em without that nasty (and unhealthy) “popping” or whatever … but often can’t find what we need to do the job.
But, now, there’s a way to get rid of acne once and for all! It’s a one-step, natural, easy-to-use solution that’s gotten solid approval from over 25,000 customers (so far. That number’s growing!) And it does it in about 24 hours!
Now, when I say “natural,” I mean without the mineral oils (derived, btw, from crude oil!), parabens (which can cause cancer) and other junk. When ya click on the link I’m about to give ya, just scroll down to this treatment’s ingredients and you’ll see it’s completely natural!
You’ll read testimonies from satisfied customers, more on the product itself (and, believe me, you’ll love the price), and more!
So, if you (or your son/daughter/loved one/someone you know) have problems with acne, it’s worth your time to click on this link for the best in acne treatments. Do it now … and start “clearing up the problem”!

Well, that’s it for this go-round, Rockiteers! Until tomorrow, remember:

Keep your nose to the wind and your eyes on the skies … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

WOW!! When ya see this pic, it kinda makes ya wonder if anybody in Liverpool wasn’t in a band back-in-the-day (this one’s from 1963, I think).
Actually, there were over 400 bands circulatin’ on the circuits back then in Beatletown!

SOME MADE IT, SOME DIDN’T … and some SHOULD’VE

For example: Though not from Liverpool (I think “Manchester” here, for some reason), The Cherokees had an excellent blues-rock sound that could’ve put them up there with the likes of The Animals and Yardbirds. Producer Mickie Most had a solid band on his hands with songs like “I’ll Never Turn My Back (On You)” (it had a fab drum intro and fade).
There are others who would’ve done just as well, ala the groups mentioned as well as even the Rolling Stones, like The Others, whose cover of the classic, “Oh, Yeah!” was as down-and-dirty as Jagger.

Then there were those whose lively, harmony-based songs could’ve even rivaled The Beatles and Fourmost. The Four Just Men, from Manchester, was a perfect example with their hit, Things Will Never Be The Same.

Of course, promotions and management, A&Rs and so many others had a lot to do with these lads makin’ it to our shores. Sometimes (as was with the case of The Fourmost), they thought the field was already full and they didn’t think they needed another band hittin’ US airwaves.
Oh, yeah?? Just give a listen to A Little Lovin’, I’m In Love (written by Lennon/McCartney) … and their straight-from-Hamburg sound on the wild Isley Brothers’ hit, Respectable.
Actually, the real reason they weren’t given a push is that, while they were great onstage, their personalities were, as one reporter of the time put it, a “little dry”.
I’ll have more on these bands in the next post, but, for now …

HERE’S A VID THAT SHOWS
HOW YOU CAN BE PAUL McCARTNEY!

Thanks to Luker of THE FORE for sending this to me! The comedian doin’ the bit is spot on with his impersonation! Give it a spin yerself:

OR JOHN LENNON …

THIN IS “IN”

… and many folks are out there everyday, watching their calories and exercising; trying to take off pounds as sensibly as possible.
But, sometimes, ya need a little help, whether through diet supplements, pills or whatever. And there are loads of offers out there for this-or-that brand, and they all seem to promise the same results. Now, that can be confusing — not to mention costly!
NOW, though, there’s a place that’ll review these for you ahead of time, so you can see which one actually works best to get the weight off! Not only that, but they’ll even show you where you can buy these … and save money in the process!
Believe me, they’ve taken all the “guess-work” out of it for ya — and all you have to do to find out more (and I know you’re interested, right?) is to click the link that’ll actually lead you to the best diet pills for your situation!
So why not go there now, and take advantage of their help today? A thinner you is counting on it!

Well, that’s it for this short edition. Until tomorrow, remember the saying of the great Ron Ryan:

‘Keep your nose in the wind, and your eye on the sky’ … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Hey … remember during the last segment of The Fore interview, where a young fan named Eric asked their drummer, Simon Thompson:
“… I heard your song “Someone New” and LOVE it. How do you get the drum sound like the triple tom in there? Ive tried and tried because Im adrummer too.”?
Natch, Si was more than willing to explain it … but offered to take it a step further and show the lad how he did it!
Okay … (Eric, ya watchin’?) here it is! Watch how he does it, then practice on your own drumkit:

There, now! Got it?? Listen — ya gotta appreciate Simon; I mean, how many other drummers would take time to show ya their techniques?
(Now watch me get kicked when I say:) When ya learn the triplet, you can then say you’re playin’ a Simonized kit!! (oKAY! oKAY!! SAW-reee!! Geez …) Many thanks to Si for sharing this with his fans … and Eric (who’s also gettin’ this link by email!).

Rolf Harris (who did the famous Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport and Nick Teen and Al K. Hall) is gonna be inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Hall of Fame in Melbourne on July 1. He’s now 78 year-old and has lived in England most of his life, but joins great Aussie talent like Olivia Newton-John and INXS as a HoFer. “I look at all the famous names and am thrilled to be with them for, basically, just enjoying myself through music for the whole of my life. Thank you so much.” he said.

And, though he’s the preacher at Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in Memphis, Rev. Al Green has stopped doing weddings! Reason?: He says the waiting list for people wantin’ to get hitched was getting wayyyy too long — mostly tourists, and some from as far away as Tokyo, Japan!

PERSONAL NOTE: Okay, I rarely drop one of these in here, but, it bein’ Fathers’ Day here in the states, I wanna wish every dad … on both sides of any pond, any age, race, color, creed or socks … a happy and relaxing one! You deserve it!!

A COUPLA BEATLE NOTES

Didja know that, 44 years ago yesterday (June 14), British railway workers found a 12-year-old girl packed in a tea chest and addressed to The Beatles? (Yeah, she was alright … and, for you nitpickers, it was the tea chest addressed to JPG&R, not the girl!)

… or that, 43 years ago yesterday (June 14), Paul McCartney recorded Yesterday by himself? Look … he tried to fit the rest of the Beatles into the song, but it just didn’t work! So he did it with the stringed ensemble behind him instead!

… or that, on the Wings’ hit Band On The Run, Macca played bass … and guitar … and drums?

I FOUGHT THE LAW

No … I … I mean … the name of the song! And here’s the Bobby Fuller Four doin’ it liiiiiiiiive (well, almost).

By the way … it’s no secret now that Bobby was murdered on that tragic day back in January, 1966. The case was recently re-opened, so maybe now they can find the creeps who did it …

A GEM OF AN IDEA!

If I remember correctly, most women love jewelry … especially when it comes as a gift from a “special someone.”
Now, there are loads of places you can find it — if you want to wait forever for sales clerks, see displays that have been “picked through” and probably sky-high prices!
So why not go to a place that presents the finest of jewelry … where you can shop at your speed and find exactly what you’re looking for? What if I told you it’s also a place where you can save on these beautiful pieces of adornment? found be clickin’ the link I’m about to give you!
Now, they’ve been in business for fifty-two years, so ya know they’ve got a great reputation. Not only that, but you also can qualify for rebates, browse through their beautiful diamond rings, watches, bridal gifts and much more!
So why not beat the high costs, forget about the in-store sales clerks, and find what you want in fine jewelry … and all by clicking that link?
You’re gonna be excited when you get there, that’s for sure!

Well, it’s about that time again (4:30 AM here, 9:30 AM in tea-and-crumpet land, and Sometime in the Morning in Monkeeville) … so, until next time, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Well, this is the last segment of the innerview with Spencer Hannabuss (bass, vocals, songwriter, founding member), Luke Bentley (rhythm, vocals), Simon Thompson (drums, vocals) and Matt Hardy (lead, vocals) — collectively, THE FORE! (no, it’s not a misspelling! You’re reading the “interview” that gives you an “inner view” of the popular lads!)
Now, since this is the weekend (or a close facsimile thereof), the band’s gotta do their shows — and The Relic’s got some catchup to do with the RockNews that’s comin’ in. But don’t worry, oh faithful Foreheads … there’ll be more, ’cause you’re still sendin’ in your questions! So here we go with Pt. 3 of The Fab FORE Interview!

(Now, one more time, troops: remember … I printed the questions out exactly as you wrote ‘em! No changes; didn’t wanna leave anything out! And, like I said before, Matt couldn’t make it to the “meeting of the minds” for this, but he had the others answer on his behalf).

The lads’ answers are in bold type:

“My son Chris wants to start a rock band he hopes will be sucessful (sic). Since the fore is so good and sucessful (sic) can you give him some advice on what he will have to do and what he needs to look out for?”

SIMON: A good drummer!! I’m sure Spencer will fill in the rest — he’s been there! lol

SPENCER: I’ll add to that - The first thing is to enjoy what you’re doing. Full stop. It sounds simple but if you’re playing music in a band that isn’t what you’re looking to do it’ll never work. We all love playing the style of music that we do and that’s so important - in the past we have had musicians in the band who weren’t 100% into the sound. It’s that love for what you do that gets you through the ‘dark’ times - it’s that that gets you by when you’re playing at gig miles from home, waiting 4 hours to play and then it’s only to a handful of people. The good times will come - but it’s often a long, long road (as the Hollies would say!)

“I know you played a big tv show for bbc. Is playing on tv any different than paying (sic) for a live show in front of fans? If so how?”"

SPENCER: Very different. This is mainly because at a live show you can interact with the audience. The audience applause tends to ‘book-end’ a song whereas on TV there was … nothing!! We had to make sure we were speaking straight after the last chord was ringing to avoid those uncomfortable silences.
The BBC experience was unlike anything we had been through before. We were filmed constantly for 6 hours and the pressure to always be ‘performing’ was immense. We were pretty much presenting our own show which was something that we’ve never done before. Actually, by the end of the second, I think we had gotten a lot better at it and whilst I don’t know whether I’d like to do that particular show again, I think we’d all like to get more exposure on TV. We had a great time!

“Have any of u ever met the beatles i mean paul or ringo? u sound so much like them and some even better.”

SIMON: I personally haven’t, though I’ve done the Liverpool tour and visited their original houses.

SPENCER: Well it’s an honour to be even compared to The Beatles, let alone someone saying we sound BETTER than them! Thank you!!!!
I’ve been fortunate enough to meet Paul McCartney in person. A good friend of mine worked as a radio reporter, working specifically on entertainment. He managed to get me an access to all areas pass at one of Paul’s ‘Back In The World’ tour in 2003. I was lucky enough to watch his sound check and then sit in on his interview with my friend. I even gave him a copy of 3 of my songs on CD!! He seemed a genuine kind of guy and I was really pleased to meet him!

“Do you ever get butterflys (sic) before going on stage?”

SPENCER: Not all that often these days, although there’s always a keenness to just get on stage and play. I’m often pacing around before a gig, just ‘cos I get impatient from not getting up there and doing what we do best!

SIMON: I think I did on my first gig but since then being on stage in front of people just feel right it’s where I belong.

“Do any of you have brothers or sisters who play too. I mean not with the fore but play.”

SPENCER: My sister is more arty than musical. Some of her drawings are amazing. My dad used to play semi-professionally years back, in the late 60s, so I guess that’s where I get my musical talent from. His guitar and bass were the first instruments I picked up.

SIMON: I have 2 older sisters but neither of them play — though my nephew has started to play drums now …don’t think his mum ever forgive me for that! lol

“A question for Simon if he doesntmind. I heard your song “Someone New” and LOVE it. How do you get the drum sound like the triple tom in there? Ive tried and tried because Im adrummer too.”

SIMON: During my little solo I’m playing the kick and both toms pretty much at the same time on different beats. But then I do the triple beat on just the floor tom and quickly move back to the original beat. Its difficult to explain but I’ll try and get a close up video of it to show you. (Rockiteers, if he can do it, I promise to put it on the very next post [and send a copy to you, Eric!])

SPENCER: I remember the first time that Si put the triplet in the drum fill. We were rehearsing in Croydon, Surrey (just me and him actually) and we were running over material for Black & White. It’s a great song, particularly live, and Si’s not really given credit for the part he plays in it, or many of our other songs. Good ol’ Si!!

Okay … now, remember, troops: The Fore will be answerin’ more of your questions soon; they’re still comin’ in (just found a couple in the RelicMail while I was busy gettin’ all this on the site!).
I wanna thank all 4 (and Neil and David) of The Fore for taking a few minutes of their time to answer your questions! I gotta tell ya that, in thirty+ years in the biz of rockin’, this is the best band I’ve ever had the pleasure to promote! And this is proof that you won’t find a more “fan-oriented”, harder-workin’ band in the known world than these FORE!!
But, for now, let’s get on to a coupla other thingz, okay?

IN THE NEWS …

A few short posts ago, I mentioned about the legendary Nashville trumpeter, Danny Davis (the man responsible for signing Herman’s Hermits to MGM Records), having a severe heart attack that led to a coma. Sadly, Danny passed away yesterday at the age of 83. A fixture on the country scene (including TV’s “Hee-Haw!”), he had retired just three years ago.

Just learned that Sir Paul’s headin’ out on the “tour” I toldja about (supposedly, it’s the one after which he’s plannin’ to “semi-retire”!). But this tour’s expected to last … two years! (Hey … ya get the feelin’ that Macca’s gonna change his mind somewhere along the circuit?)

Oh … didja know the ’80’s alt/punk band, Devo, are part of the Church of the SubGenius, a made-up “religion” that mocks Scientology and New Age philosophy? (Oh … their famous “reverse-flowerpot” hats? They’re called “sexual channels”. Sheesh … all they gotta do is get cable TV for that!)

Now, I was just sent this from one of our fans in the UK. You’re gonna hear one of the best of the early “supergroups” on this one! (Unfortunately, the vid is long-since history. But it’s got some great pics!)
Gene Vincent/Eddie Cochran/Billy Fury/Joe Brown/Marty Wilde
MY BABE

Okay … now I’m gonna flip off the RockStation and the lights and get …

ummm … w-wait! Ah can’t see what I’m writin’!! Where’s the friggin’ switch? Hmmm …

Well … better sign off first, then get ready for bed. Hmph … been in Kentucky tooooooo lonnnnnnnng! lol

So, until tomorrow’s edition, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Okay, Rockiteers … here’s Part 2 of the interview that’s got rockers around the globe buzzin’ — and anxious to hear the rest of the story from Spencer Hannabuss (bass, vocals, songwriter, founding member), Luke Bentley (rhythm, vocals), Simon Thompson (drums, vocals) and Matt Hardy (lead, vocals) — collectively, THE FORE!
(I was told that waitin’ for Pt. 2 is like waiting for the conclusion of a popular old TV series’ two-parter. Well, I might be a batty man, but I ain’t gonna be robbin’ ya of this part –unless some joker at IP Central disconnects me!) So, without further ado, I (oh? I didn’t use gotham? Mebbe ’cause it’s made up of two separate words that can make me very hungry …) give you Pt. 2 of The Fab FORE Interview!

(Now, remember … I printed the questions out exactly as you wrote ‘em! No changes; didn’t wanna leave anything out! And, like I said before, Matt couldn’t make it to the “meeting of the minds” for this, but he had the others answer on his behalf).

The lads’ answers are in bold type:

“Is that song Man of Few Words really about Simon the drummer? He sounds o much like Buddy Holley its (sic) gives me goose bumps. U should let him sing more sometimes.”
SPENCER: MOFW’s was originally written with Matt in mind (which funnily enough matches up with the last question about him!) but I think Matt saw it as a slight on his personality and wasn’t comfortable with singing it. Simon then joined the band and took to the song like a fish to water (again, can you really imagine anyone singing MOFWs other than Si?).
We do have another song that I’m keen to give to Simon to sing, called It Doesn’t Matter which is very Buddy Holly! I think Simon will do the song proud. Hopefully one day we’ll record it.
SIMON: I wouldn’t class myself as a “man of few words.” If I had a mic all the time you’d probably hear me joking with the guys in-between songs.

“How often does the band rehearse their songs and how do they pick the ones they do in concert?”
SPENCER: Rehearsal time is at a bit of a premium really since we’re so busy on the road all the time. Songs will often be learnt individually and then rehearsed in sound checks before being given a chance in a set.
Funnily enough, we’re talking at the moment about doing more rehearsals so that we can learn the new material for the next (second) album!
The set list for a concert is usually picked by me. I will take into account the audience that we are playing to and the time that we’re playing for. I try to ensure that the set is balanced in terms of who sings and also a varied amount of slow/medium and fast-paced numbers in it.

“I’d like to ask Neil and David got to be managers. Do they have anybody to help them like secretarys (sic) or promoters? As good as the band is, they could have managed the Beatles!”
NEIL WHITE (co-manager): No, no one to help us in the UK (could do with a secretary, though!) but The Relic is doing an awesome job across the pond. Dave and I just work it out between us. We don’t mind what we do, from being roadies, publishing the website and Fore-um to booking gigs and talking to promoters. To be honest, we just do as much as time allows with help from the band. It’s all enjoyable and, of course, the aim being to get these guys signed! (not sure we deserve the Beatles compliment though, but thanks! lol)
SPENCER: Both Neil and David have made a huge impact on our lives. Music aside, we all feel that N&D are good, trustworthy friends and I wouldn’t swap them for anyone. I’m sure they’d be the first to admit that a lot of the good work that goes on behind the scenes wouldn’t happen if it weren’t for our satellite helpers across the world whom, without their help, we wouldn’t have the presence outside of our own country.
We will always encourage outside help from anyone and are always happy to talk to people wanting to lend a hand in our push for that record contract!

“When will we see the new CD come out? If its half as good as your other one its going to go platnum (sic).”
SPENCER: Well, who knows? We have just booked up our first session in the studio for 6th September through to 12th September. We may need a second session, which is likely to be in October. I’d like to record around 20 songs and then choose an album of 14-15 songs from that. Maybe the other songs could be release at a later date!
SIMON: It’ll be the ”must-have’ Christmas present!

“What do the band members like to do on their days off from performing?”
SPENCER: You mean … there are days that we aren’t performing?? At the moment, time off is very scarce. I’ve just adopted a couple of fluffy cats so they’re taking up quite a bit of time at the moment. Their names are “Womble” and “Muffin.”
SIMON: If I’m not banging my drums onstage, you’ll probably hear me banging my Roland kit at home, or crashing out in front of my big TV in my new apartment watching American TV shows.
LUKE: Well, we all work full-time so we don’t get much time off at all! But if we do, we like to have a beer and chill out.

“What is each band member’s favorite color?”
SPENCER: Always liked Red (I’ve only owned red cars), but black and brown are two of my favorite colours to wear.
LUKE: Blue!! I love the blue!!
SIMON: You’ve probably guessed already (that) it’s black. I like the old style Beatles look so I wear it when I can onstage.

“When will we see them in the US? I hope soon. They are the best thing to hapen (sic) to rock and roll music since the Beatles and we sure need their music over here.”
SPENCER: Well, we want to come over, too. We need to get more exposure over in the states, and, when the time is right and that breakthrough happens, we’ll be over like a shot!
SIMON: Well, I’ll be in North Carolina & Virginia in August attending a wedding but that doesn’t count. But I hope soon as well! As soon as we get the call I’ll pack my bags and jet off to all you lovely American Foreheads!

“I like the acting they did on Love For Sale on youtube. The dog was precious. Was he any one of theirs? They could go into movies they are all so good looking.”
SPENCER: “Flea” belongs to Matt’s brother-in-law (who’s also called Matt!). Some might say that the dog out-performed the band …
SIMON: Gee shocks, thank you! “Flea” is owned by Matt’s brother-in-law who was the brains behind the video and scripting.”

Hey …GUESS WHAT?? I’m gonna give the lads a break for a few hours, but, since you’ve sent in six more questions, I’m gonna conclude “The fab FORE Interview” in TOMORROW’S ish! If you think you know ‘em now, just wait until ya read what’s comin’ up …

But, for now, it’s time for The Relic to get Pt. II onto the other sites, where fans there have their PCs warmed up and waitin’ for it!
Then, I’m gonna feed the cats (or, those who haven’t already eaten most of my peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich that I had on the desk!), flip off the RockStation for about a circle of minutes (360) and get some sleep! So, until tomorrow’s edition, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

Okay, Rockiteers … here it is: the interview with the greatest band to hit the UK stage in forty-plus years! Excited fans are crowding into every venue to see their faves — Spencer Hannabuss (bass, vocals, songwriter, founding member), Luke Bentley (rhythm,vocals), Simon Thompson (drums, vocals) and Matt Hardy (lead, vocals) — as they turn up the amps and crank out the best rock and roll to tempt dancin’ feet and anxious ears since The Beatles!

And, soon, they’re gonna be hittin’ the stage (and winnin’ the hearts of millions of fans) worldwide! That includes in America, troops!

The Relic had a chance to get up with THE FORE recently — with your questions in hand (hey … I printed ‘em out exactly as you wrote ‘em! No changes; didn’t wanna leave anything out!) — and they were happy to answer!! (Note: Matt couldn’t make it to the “meeting of the minds” for this, but he had the others answer on his behalf). Now, remember: I had your questions just like you wrote ‘em – and that’s how I’m writin’ ‘em here!

The lads’ answers are in bold type:

“Did any of you know each other well (as friends or schoolmates) before coming together as a band?”
LUKE: We all met through a dating site! haha
SIMON: We could have been a great boy band. lol
SPENCER: Whilst Simon, Matt and I all live in and around London, we all went to different schools and only met through adverts posted on the internet/music magazines/shops (Luke’s from Manchester)

“How did you come up with your unique sound? You sound so much like the Beatles and the famous groups its awesome. Plus your vocals sound like Beatles The Everleys (sic) and The Hollies.”
SPENCER: It must be in our blood! I think you’ve hit the nail on the head; the sound has a mixture of all those great bands and more. The Beatles were the band that first got us hooked on music, but, without doubt, the music and the harmonies of The Everlys, The Hollies and The Searchers (to name just four) has had a profound effect on our music.
LUKE: Spencer and myself are huge fans of The Everlys.

“Who decides who sings the lead part of a song?”
LUKE: Spencer asks us if we want the particular song, then we say “yes” or “no”.
SPENCER: When I’ve written a song I tend to know straight away whose voice it suits the best. Maybe it’s just pure luck? But could you really imagine Luke not singing I Got A Girl or Simon not singing Man of Few Words? It just wouldn’t feel right!

Spencer, this one’s for you: “how long does it normaly (sic) take u to write a song and do u do the music as well?”
SPENCER: Not an easy question to answer. Some songs come very easy. For example, I Want To Be With You took one evening to write, but Love For Sale was hanging around for a month until I worked out the riff, which is pretty key to the whole song. Nearly without exception I’ll come up with the melody before the lyrics. I’ll start off with the melody “hook” or riff and take it from there.
Often a song will come quite quickly, but I’ll be stuck on the last verse.

“Matt sounds like George (Harrison) with his guitar but does not seem to talk to (sic) much. Why is he so quite?” (I think she means “quiet”, guys.)
SPENCER: When Matt has something important to say, he’ll say it. I guess he does all his talking through his guitar!

“What’s the biggest show you have ever played?”
SPENCER: Good question! Biggest, in terms of audience, was undoubtedly in Kent, when we provided the live show at Danson Fireworks Display in Bexley. The organisers told us that 35,000 were expected that evening, although we would never have known it — we couldn’t see anything past the first 5 rows due to the darkness!
And, of course, everytime we play a live show on a High Street, we must play to literally thousands of passers-by. I guess we don’t really ever take a stock of that (ie: count of exactly how many).

“Luke is so cuddly looking. (NOTE: here, imagine the others chuckling and kidding Luker, who’s blushing a bit — Relic) i saw him sing on i’ve got a girl. does he have one? and is he the one singing on the record of it?”
LUKE: Thanks. I sing it live and on the album. Its my fav song at the mo! And, yes, I do have one.”

“What is it like to play the Cavern where the Beatles started? (followup question, same reader:) How did you get the job there to start?”
LUKE: Playing The Cavern is the best experience I have ever had! Words cannot describe how wonderful it is … Come next time we play! Find out!
SIMON: As soon as you’re onstage you feel the energy creeping out of the walls and you feel that all the great 60’s bands that have played there are watching over you! It’s a huge thrill!!
SPENCER: It’s amazing! Technically it’s not the real Cavern (the old one was blocked up as it was waterlogged and unsafe); it actually is a replica of the old venue (which is next door. Legend has it that you can still access the old Cavern via the womens’ toilets), but it has the same magic as the place that the Beatles played. I recommend everyone to get a chance to visit it and take in the atmosphere. To hear a live band playing the old 60s stuff as you’re coming down the spiral staircase is pretty mind-blowing!
SIMON: I believe we emailed the promoter direct who puts on an event called Sounds of the 60s on a Sunday night and, as we do, turned up, played, and they wanted more!

Okay, Rockiteers … I’m gonna give the lads a break for a few hours, but remember: more of “The fab FORE Interview” will continue in TOMORROW’S ish! If you’ve got questions for the band, send ‘em on in ASAP, and just maybe we can include them in the next post!

But, for now, it’s time for The Relic to take a litter … er, bathroom break (I knew these cats were gettin’ to me!) and then get Pt. I also onto a coupla other sites, where fans there are waitin’ for it!

Then, I’m gonna find that pack of unopened zzzzzz’s and use ‘em to get a few hours’ shuteye, k? So, until tomorrow’s edition, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

WHEW!! That was one industrial-strength storm that threw me off last night (what?? Shoulda done this anyway? Whaddya want … Chuck Roast?? Unh-UNNNNH!!)
Now … where were we?? OH, yeah …

IN THE NEWS AT THIS HOUR …
Just learned that soul legend Stevie Wonder’s turned down an offer to let a company use his beautiful song about his daughter, Aisha, “Isn’t She Lovely”, in an ad for a … toilet! No, I don’t know how they woulda worked it in (how can ya work that in when someone’s on it, tryin’ to, er, “work something out”?). Obviously, these morons didn’t care who he wrote it about — they just saw dollar signs and that’s all …

Got word yesterday that Dan Seals (of England Dan & John Ford Coley and little bro of Jim Seals from Seals & Crofts) is goin’ through radiation treatments for lymphoma and is lookin’ at a stem cell transplant very soon. According to his manager, “The prognosis is good. He has the best medical care he can get, and he’s in good spirits”. Word to Dan: GO for it! If it worked for Pete Dintino (see earlier posts), it can work for YOU!

FORETHOUGHTS (with a cute story!)

FORETHOUGHTS (with a cute story!)

Wanna know how the lads impact fans — of all ages? Read on, o true believer (in case ya missed it the last time [shame on ya!], here it is in replay): Better yet, lemme just print what Spencer told me:

“We playing in Bromley, Kent (SE England) yesterday. A young girl (about 7 years old) was there and sang to nearly every word of the 50 minutes set. THAT’S what it’s all about … that really gives us the drive to keep going. Fantastic.”

WOW! I mean, dig it: A little child memorized the songs!! Talk about yer devotion!! Man, it proves THE FORE is the band to keep yer eyes on!! And their CDs? Listen … they sold 50 that day by WOM (word-of-mouth — or “WOW” with the last letter confused) only!

THE BAND ON IMDB! Yep … they’ve made it to the famed Internet Movie Database (just click the link to find out!). Their work on Rare and Unseen: The Beatles opened the door … and they’ve gone in! One step closer, mates …

ROCKITEERS, UNITE! Spencer also came up with a new moniker that inspired The Relic: He coined the phrase Relicateers for all the beat-bandits out there who tune us in everyday. I sorta went with that and figured, “Hey … we’re movin’ up at warp speed like a ‘rocket’, and everyone here knows how to let their hair down (or scalp. Or wig. Or …) and ‘rock it’ … so why not “ROCKITeers”?? Outside of the fact it makes us sound like astronauts (which was a good group, btw), whatcha think?? Lemme know, ‘k?

A BIT OF FRY AND LAURIE

Seems you can’t get enough of the good doctor House in an earlier incarnation — soooooo … The Relic preee-sents:
THE PSYCHIC SPOON-BENDER

LOOKIN’ FOR A JOB?

I know there are a lotta Rockiteers in HotLanta (ie, Atlanta, Georgia, of course!) — and some of you are lookin’ for good jobs there by scouring the newspaper, checkin’ job banks and all. But didja know there’s a great place that’ll not only help ya find the job you’re lookin’ for but also has articles to help as well?
You can check by industry, company — even create a job alert, find the tools ya need, get ocnsultation and much more!
Look … Atlanta’s always looked after its own (as well as newcomers who’ve just moved in!). And, with the folks you’re about to meet, you’ll definitely be sold on that as they help you find the job that you want!
Just click on the link where you’ll find the best Atlanta jobs … and start on the path to success today!

Well, that’s it for this revised, storm’s-passed, unburnt edition. See ya a bit later this evening (weather permitting, natch!). ‘Til then, remember to

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music …

and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

Okay, Rockaholics … gotcha a few primo vids for this episode: one of John doin’ some Buddy Holly, another of JPG&R coverin’ Holly’s Maybe Baby and the other of the Fab Four covering the Everly Brothers.

Now, the one you’re about to see first has some still-shots (no vid, per se) along with six Holly songs done informally by John Lennon! Worth the price of admission alone: (On one of the songs, you’ll hear Yoko in the background, on the phone with someone; but, after the 7-minute mark, expect a clean, cool rendition of Maybe, Baby)

On this one, ya got JPG&R doin’ a short cover of the Everlys’ Bye, Bye Love. A classic song by the classic duo bein’ done by the classic band is … well, classic! Here ya go:

And, from January 29, 1969 (the last day of rehearsals before the famed Rooftop Concert, the Beatles doin’ Maybe, Baby)

A FORE-THOUGHT:

Interesting word from bass player/vocalist Spencer Hannabuss about their gig this past Sunday. He wrote the following:

“We (were) playing in Bromley, Kent (SE England) yesterday. A young girl (about 7 years old) was there and sang to nearly every word of the 50 minutes set. THAT’S what it’s all about … that really gives us the drive to keep going. Fantastic!”

Y’know, these lads sold fifty CDs at the show that night (all by word-of-mouth!), played a dynamite set, really turned on the crowd … but the devotion of that one little girl said it all; this is the band that’s turning on the new generation!!

Oh, yeah … now you can check ‘em out on the world-famous IMDB (Internet Movie) Database! The Fore is gainin’ some SERIOUS ground, Rocketeers!!

THE BEAUTY OF TUSCANY

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You’ll be spellbound as you visit the great art centers of Florence and Pisa (home of the famed Leaning Tower), enjoy the olive groves, vineyards and stone-built farmhouses, and revel in the majesty that it brings!
Sound tempting? Then all you have to do to take advantage of these beautiful (and surprisingly affordable!) Tuscany villa rentals is to click on that link you just passed … and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime!

Well, that’s it for this go-’round, so tune in shortly for more news, views, vids and Fore more exciting stuff. Until then, though, remember:

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side.