900th POST!

I am very excited to announce that this is my 900 POST!!! I generally thank a ton of people on these monumental postings, however this time I am changing it up. Since my 1,000 Post will creep up on me soon, I will save all my Thank Yous for them. I will say THANK YOU for keeping this machine going and reading! Please become a fan on Facebook and follow the site on Twitter!

With This I Think I'm Officially A Yuppie on Facebook

Julian Casablancas on Letterman

Julian Casablancas went down to Ed Sullivan Theater last night to play on Letterman for the first time as a solo artist. Take a look at Julian do his finest!

Dillinger Escape Plan Tracklisting

Hardcore heavy weights Dillinger Escape Plan is set to release their latest, Option Paralysis in the coming months. Take a look at the track listing below..

1. Farewell, Mona Lisa
2. Good Neighbor
3. Gold Teeth On A Bum
4. Crystal Morning
5. Endless Endings
6. Widower
7. Room Full Of Eyes
8. Chinese Whispers
9. I Wouldn’t If You Didn’t
10. Parasitic Twins

Clipse / The Roots on Fallon

Clipse dropped by Jimmy Fallon last night to jam out with The Roots and promote their latest, Till the Casket Drops. Take a look!

Live Review - David Gray @ Broad Street Ballroom

Just a few days into the New Year and I had the opportunity to catch one of the world's favorite singers in a private and intimate performance. In a taping for the syndicated show Live from the Artists Den, UK singer-songwriter David Gray played to a crowd of 200 at New York's Broad Street Ballroom on Wall Street. The venue, which looks like a Roman Cathedral was draped in wall to wall sound, with its perfect acoustics, Gray sounded better live than he has on any album. Performing a majority of songs off his latest, Draw the Line, Gray and his band of dapper gents, which look just like him, elevated emotion and hearts on a blistering cold night. In a two hour set, pulling out all the stops from lighting to performance, Gray showed why his massive world tour has been so successful. Indeed he writes a great song, but how into his music he gets is the experience. The intricate noises and sounds he brings forth onto wax from the studio are all articulated with sheer perfection live. In between songs David would talk to the audience and his British charm would come out as well as his shyness, you can tell he has a much better time expressing himself in song than speaking in front of a crowd of strange faces. David Gray Live from the Artists Den will air in the spring, be sure to check it out.

Vampire Weekend on Letterman

A week before their latest, Contra is due, Vampire Weekend hit up Letterman last night and did a great job playing "Cousins." Can't wait for next week and the new album!

EXCLUSIVE! Mary Weiland INTV!

When I first learned that the ex wife of one of my all time favorite front men was writing a book, I was a bit skeptic. Was this going to be a tell all, TMZ-esq book of who was doing what drug in the 90's? Was this going to be a story about Scott Weiland's addiction that I didn't already know? What I got was the most honest and human story about going to hell and back. Mary Forsberg Weiland, better known as Mary Weiland, accounts her life battling addiction, mental illness with love and heartbreak. This was never a book about gossip or what people had made her do, rather a book about an adult accepting responsibility for her actions. Fall to Pieces tells Mary Weiland's life story from childhood to her days as a teenage model to going on the road and being married to Rock and Roll's wild man, Scott Weiland. With the support of her famous friends and family, Mary wrote about accounts of clout with so much clarity. Broken down in regular terms and leaving the medical jargon at the door, Weiland discloses horrific tales in great detail and tales of great triumph. Yet, Weiland's biggest triumph was coming clean and honest with Fall to Pieces, which is one of the best reads I had last year. Take a look at my exclusive interview with Mary Weiland as we discussed the writing of the book, her addiction and where she goes now.

What prompted you to write “Fall to Pieces?”

MFW: The positive response I’ve received from people who’ve been able to connect with my story... that was my dream in wanting to write “Fall to Pieces.” People are hungry for honesty and I wanted to open a conversation on the topics of addiction and mental illness. I think everyone is carrying a little sadness inside and making a connection with another person can relieve some of that pain... and maybe even bring some sunlight into what was once a very dark place. It was a freeing thing to write with that objective in mind. Hopefully I got close!

Do you feel vindicated that the book has been written and is out?

MFW: I felt an obligation to write something inspiring, but in a way it was also a gift to my children. Plus I wanted them to be able to Google mommy and daddy and get the whole picture! Any life needs a couple different perspectives to make sense.

After reading your story, I could not help but notice that the motifs of escape played a big role in your life. Escaping with your mother from your father when you were a child. Drugs. Music. Food. Escaping to the beach when you would visit your father as a young teen and watch the socialites. Do you think you have stopped escaping and start accepting what has been given to you? Have you found what you may have been looking for?

MFW: Finally having an answer for why I felt the need to escape has made it a lot easier to stay in the moment. I’m human and when life becomes overwhelming something as simple as a trip to the mall can restore a feeling of wholeness. The major difference is the escape is brief and without negative consequences. I was always looking for calm and peace and I do feel like I finally found that place.

Since you were a teen you have been battling depression or a form of it. This has consumed most, if not all of your life. What advice do you give someone today who is battling the same demons you have?

MFW: Accepting depression as a part of your life is the first step in recovery. Looking to other people who have struggled and made it out can be inspirational. Everyone has the potential to heal if they are willing to do the work. At times I felt hopeless, but I never completely gave up. If I had, it would have been a short book...

At every turning point or bench mark in your life, music has marked a specific moment (I can easily relate). Did music ever help get you out of what you were battling?

MFW: Music was and sometimes still is the most glorious way to avoid life’s crushing moments. Losing myself in someone else’s art and poetry and sometimes even pain was a reminder that I wasn’t alone. Movies can do that too. Disappearing into another world, a world that inspires you... it’s one of the great journeys we get to take as a fan.

What music defines your proudest moments?

MFW: Songs that fall under the “guilty pleasure” category have played a roll in putting a smile on my face. Often music was the only thing that could pull me out from under the black cloud. Sometimes it’s silly, sometimes its profound... my only credo is this -- turn it up!

What defines your worst?

MFW: Guns and Roses “Its So Easy” always had me running straight for trouble. Listening to it now is a reminder of how far I’ve come.

On Scott’s song “Barbarella,” from his solo record, 12 Bar Blues, he sings the line “Grab a scale and guess the weight of all the pain I have given with my name. I am a selfish piece of shit.” Do you ever blame Scott for your downward spiral into drugs?

MFW: Never. I was an adult when I made the choices that I did. I was born with the potential to be an addict and I could have hit bottom with anyone or on my own. Good song, though.

Throughout your years of using and turmoil with Scott, you kept going back to him. Why?

MFW: Our love for each other was almost unnatural. There were times when we couldn’t function on our own. I give us credit for trying to make it work. Hollywood promotes giving up. Eighteen years and nine years of marriage with all that we’ve been through in my opinion is a success.

What are your hopes and aspirations for your children now that you and Scott are on a clear path of recovery?

MFW: I hope they find success and happiness based on their own hard work. Our past struggles will most likely follow them, but because they were so young during our difficult times my hope is that it won’t consume them.

Sex Pistol Steve Jones and Red Hot Chili Pepper Anthony Keidis aided you throughout your road to sobriety. Where there stories and battles enough to make you want to kick the habit?

MFW: You’d think another persons crippling experience would have been enough to discourage me, but I was sick and not ready to get well. The part they played was simply just being available when I was ready to change my life. I wanted to tip my hat their way in the book. Their friendship still means the world to me.

What is next for Mary Forsberg Weiland now?

MFW: I should be starting back to school in February. I’m studying for my certificate in drug and alcohol counseling with a focus on Co-occurring Disorders. I hope my experience and knowledge can help others. Giving back is a part of my continued recovery.

Fall to Pieces is in stores now!

Special thanks to Mary, Jennifer Slattery, Harper Collins and extra thanks to Candace Greene for her assistance.

What's Coming in 2010!

Here is a look at the road ahead, some of the most anticipated releases of the year! Take a look at what 2010 will bring, it already looks a hell of a lot better than last year!

Vampire Weekend - Contra
Due: January 12

The follow up to the New York band's immensely popular self-titled debut will kick start the year in high gear. After slowly leaking some songs online, I can already tell this record is going to blow their last one out of the water. Recorded in California and combining Afro-punk with Latin fury, Contra is a record that will stay with us all year.

MGMT - Congratulations
Due: February
The follow up to the Brooklyn duo's global smash Oracular Spectacular, is poised to be one of the biggest records of the year. Not releasing much info about the album aside from the band hoping that people hate it, this will be one of the years more interesting releases.

Hot Chip - One Life Stand
Due: February
The English Electro act return with the follow up to 2008's Made in the Dark. The fourth record of these lads will be a sure fire smash across the dance floor and on the turn tables of DJ's around the globe. Described as an "end of the night record," One Life Stand is one I am looking out for.

Klaxons - Title Not Available
Due: February / March
This record was intended to come out last year, however, the label told the English band to re-record some of the record. Instead, the band scrapped the entire project and started from scratch. The psychedelic art rockers will deliver their new work early this year and we will see what the UK favorites have in store.

Broken Bells - The High Road
Due: March
The combination of The Shins James Mercer and producer Danger Mouse is already giving me chills. Releasing only the albums title track, it was one of the most beautiful things I have herd in a while. I am waiting on the edge of my seat for this album and I just hope it delivers.

U2 - Songs of Ascent
Due: Spring
Since the legendary Irish rockers recorded between 50-60 songs for No Line on the Horizon, they will release an immediate follow up and play these songs on the next legs of their massive 360o tour this summer.


Far - Title Unknown
Due: March
After a decade long hiatus, the most underrated band of the 90's is set to fire back with an album of new material. After touring this fall with Thursday and Midnight Masses and doing small one-off shows, Jonah Matranga and the boys of Far will be back with their first album since their brilliant send off, Water and Solutions. If you never herd of this band start listening, if you have herd of this band, start anticipating!

Social Distortion - Title Unknown
Due: Spring
The legendary LA punkers are still cranking and on fire as they have always been. The follow up to 2006's Sex, Love and Rock N Roll, apparently will see the band dabble in some folk roots much like Mike Ness' solo work. Whatever it maybe, new Social D always brings a smile to my face.

Arcade Fire - Title Unknown
Due: May
One of the most critically acclaimed bands to emerge in the 2000's is back at it again. The follow up to 2007's brilliant Neon Bible, will see the band create what could be the years most anticipated release. They are also to hit the road again and if anyone, like myself, who has seen this band in concert knows they are in for one of the greatest nights of their life.

Radiohead / Thom Yorke solo
Due: Unknown
Radiohead are set to hit the studio again this month after taking the fall off, no word on what or how the record will be made, but one thing is for sure, producer Nigel Goodrich is behind the wheel and we can expect something great. As for singer Thom Yorke, he used the band's downtime to craft another solo disc to follow up his 2006 solo debut, The Eraser, word on the street is that Yorke's disc will be out before the bands.

NERD - Instant Gratification
Due: Summer
Adding a female to the misogynistic band, NERD are set to fire back into your speaker with another record of party and summer jams.

Stone Temple Pilots - Title Unknown
Due: Summer
The first Stone Temple Pilots record since 2002's unlistenable Shangri-La-De-Da and the first new recordings since the band got back together in summer 2007. I am very eager to hear what Scott Weiland and boys have in store now after a few years on the road and being back together.

Dr. Dog - Title Unknown
Due: Spring / Summer
The Philly indie/jam/psychedelic band are gearing up for a tour and placing the finishing touches on their latest. They have been in the studio since the summer, leaving fans and critics in much anticipation as to what these guys will bring. Whatever it maybe, it will be gorgeous.

The National - Title Unknown
Due: Spring / Summer
To say 2009 was a quiet year for The National would be a farce. The band has been playing special shows around New York and crafting side projects while working on the follow up to 2007's amazing release, Boxer. What these Brooklyn boys will bring next we shall wait and see.

Gorillaz - Plastic Beach
Due: Summer
The world's first animated band is set to ignite radio airwaves and music videos again with their third record. The Damon Albarn side project will feature guest vocals from De La Soul, Mos Def, Snoop Dogg, Lou Reed, and Barry Gibb (yes, Barry Gibb of the BeeGee's). The will likely be the most eclectic record of the year.

Glasvegas - Title Unknown
Due: Summer / Fall
After wrapping up a whirl wind year of touring with everyone from U2 to Kings of Leon to every major festival world wide, Glasvegas hit the studio this fall in California with Rick Rubin to record the follow up to their phenomenal 2008 debut. This is one record I am waiting with baited-breath for.

Oasis 2.o / Noel Gallagher solo
Due: Summer
After the devastating break up of Britain's most beloved band of brothers, Oasis is set to go forth in two directions. One part as the current Oasis line-up sans Noel Gallagher and the other is Noel solo. Noel, who had intentions of releasing solo material in 2010 before leaving the band, will put out his music this year. Noel will also compete with Liam and the boys with their new release as they have been in the studio working on a new record.

Also Due in 2010!

- Interpol - (February)
- Los Campesinos! - Romance is Boring (February)
- The Roots - How I Got Over (February)
- Massive Attack - Heligoland (February)
- Iron and Wine (March)
- Ben Folds (March)
- Violent Soho (March)
- Broken Social Scene (March)
- Does It Offend You, Yeah? - Don't Say We Didnt Warn You (March)
- Portugal. The Man - American Ghetto (March)
- Gogol Bordello (Possible Spring Release)
- Santigold (Spring)
- Gaslight Anthem (Possible Spring Release)
- Lupe Fiasco - LASERS (Spring)
- LCD Soundsystem - (Spring)
- Tokyo Police Club (Spring)
- Fleet Foxes (Spring)
- The Wombats (Spring / Summer)
- Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee Part 1 (Spring/Summer)
- Richard Ashcroft (Late Summer/Fall)
- Nine Inch Nails (Possible Summer Release)
- Kings of Leon (Fall)

Rising Artist - London Souls

Fresh from the streets of New York City comes a bad with British attitude and Mod Style, The London Souls. A band that started gaining notoriety from their formation in 2008, gigging all around New York City and creating a residency at venues like Pianos, The London Souls just rang in the New Year with NYE show at La Passion Rouge on Bleecker. The band who's style combines afro-punk (think Vampire Weekend) with garage (think The Strokes). The band just finished recording their debut in the world's most famous studio, Abbey Road in London and are set to release it this year. Once this record comes out, be prepared to hear about the Souls on every radio around the world.

Quick News

Happy New Year already...SOUNDGARDEN ARE SET TO REUNITE!!! For the first time in 12 years the band has broken their hiatus and will perform in 2010! After much speculation in all of 2009 and Chris Cornell's disastrous sounding and selling album, Scream, fans and critics were wondering if it would happen. Well, ringing in the New Year, fans and critics got their wish with Cornell writing on his Twitter page "The 12 year break is over and school is back in session." Members of the band have played together in various forms through the years, but Cornell was the one who still had the spotlight on him. Pursuing a solo career as soon as the band split in 1997, Cornell released three solo records (Euphoria Morning, Carry On, Scream) and in 2002 formed Audioslave with members of Rage Against the Machine (sans Zach DeLa Rocha), Audioslave also released three solo records (Audioslave, Out of Exile, Revelations). No word on yet if this will be a tour or a releasing new material, as for now, just bask in the glory of one of the greatest grunge bands are back!

In related 90's rock news, Trent Reznor promises new music from Nine Inch Nails and other goodies to come from him in the year. Reznor who has been enjoying life off the road after having a series of "Wave Goodbye," concerts this past summer, has always said he will continue to make music, yet never tour again. Reznor wrote on the Nine Inch Nails website,“2010 has a number of things planned including new material from Nine Inch Nails and something else that isn’t Nine Inch Nails, I am in a state of rediscovery and reinvention that feels unfamiliar, unsure and exactly what I need.” As for something that is not Nine Inch Nails, it was rumored singer Gary Numan was going to work with Reznor on his next record, maybe Trent is producing an artist we have never herd before. Whatever it may be, I am excited and keep it locked hear as news rolls on in!