Matthew Wilkening

Thirty years ago, Robert Plant released his first solo album, ‘Pictures at Eleven,’ bravely stepping out of the imposing shadow of Led Zeppelin and establishing a new musical identity for himself.

It seems impossible to believe 35 years later, but AC/DC were actually dropped by their American record label prior to the release of their fourth studio album, ‘Let There Be Rock.’

Looks like not everybody had as much fun attending Van Halen‘s current tour as we did. Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney said he didn’t enjoy himself “at all” when he attended one of the legendary group’s shows, and went on to question why Van Halen were performing without their original bassist.

Kiss has begun accepting pre-orders for their much-touted oversized photo book, ‘Monster.’ The three-foot tall tome will cost — get ready –  $4,299! Before you get a case of sticker shock, keep this in mind: Shipping is free!

Throughout most of Aerosmith‘s concert in Cleveland, Ohio last night (June 19), a single square panel of the circular video screen above the band refused to fall in line with the rest of the display, broadcasting random colors instead of say, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry in action.

Actor Victor Spinetti, who appeared in three different films starring the Beatles, died this morning (June 19) at age 82 in Monmouth, Wales after a long battle with cancer. Paul McCartney once described the actor as a man “who makes clouds disappear.”

One of our favorite rock and roll books in recent months comes from Classic Rock Revisited mastermind Jeb Wright. ‘Rock Icons N’ Metal Gods’ features revealing and entertaining interviews with dozens of rock and metal’s biggest stars from the longtime music veteran. You can pick up the bo ...

‘Love Gun, ‘ the sixth studio album from Kiss, and the clear pinnacle of the band’s first golden era, was released 35 years ago this week.

Jack Osbourne, son of Black Sabbath and solo career legend Ozzy Osbourne, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The 26-year-old Osbourne, who only weeks ago became a father for the first time, has vowed to fight the disease: “‘Adapt and overcome’ is my new motto.”

Our July 2012 New Music Releases calendar is highlighted by yet another worthy concert reissue from the one and only Jimi Hendrix.

Kiss will release the first single from their new album ‘Monster‘ on July 2, and have announced that the full-length record will be released in October. A seriously oversized photo book, also entitled ‘Monster,’ will be released the same day as the single.

The film version of ‘Rock of Ages‘ merits a lengthy and highly qualified recommendation: Can you stand the Broadway musical format at all? Can you stay extremely open-minded as some of your favorite ’80s rock songs are re-recorded by actors, then endure a couple of questionable lead role casting choices and an openly cheesy atmosphere?