R.E.M.’s fall tour plans take shape
R.E.M. opens its first North American tour since 1999 this fall; dates and other relevant information were posted Thursday (3/27) at the band’s official website. Splitting opening-act duties are Wilco, Ed Harcourt and Sparklehorse.
R.E.M. opens its first North American tour since 1999 this fall; dates and other relevant information were posted Thursday (3/27) at the band’s official website. Splitting opening-act duties are Wilco, Ed Harcourt and Sparklehorse.
_________________________
Backstreet Boys scrap recording plans
Backstreet Boys were expected to begin work on a new album this month, but those plans have been postponed indefinitely.
“As a group, we have decided not to record our next album at this time,” the band said in a statement. “We are not breaking up, but individually we are currently at different places in our lives, and our hearts and minds are focused in other areas. All of us are getting along great and are supporting each other in our individual endeavors.”
The statement adds that they’ll record again “when the time is right.”
_________________________
Rolling Stones call off Hong Kong concerts
The Rolling Stones have canceled two Hong Kong concerts--which were to take place on Friday and Saturday (3/28-29)--due to the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in Southeast Asia. The SARS virus has killed about 50 people to date, and more than 1,300 have become ill, Reuters reports.
“Increases in the number of cases of SARS in Hong Kong and Southern China and continued concern over large gatherings have created apprehension among fans and concern for their safety,” the band said in a statement.
_________________________
Neil Young takes Crazy Horse for a ride
Elder statesman of rock Neil Young and his band Crazy Horse are lining up dates for a summer North American tour. The outing follows Young’s recent collaboration with Crazy Horse bassist Bill Talbot and drummer Ralph Molina, with whom Young has recorded a new album, Billboard.com reports. The set is due out some time this year, but a specific release date hasn’t been announced.
_________________________
American Idol contestant may have to swap mic for gun
“American Idol” finalist Josh Gracin is currently living with his fellow finalists at the program’s Hollywood Hills house, but he could soon find himself in a tent pitched in the Iraqi desert; in addition to being a singer, Gracin is also a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps. The Corps announced on Thursday that--despite rumors to the contrary--Gracin has not been given a deal that keeps him out of Iraq and on the popular television program, according to a Reuters report.
Show-host/judge Simon Cowell might be a real prick, but we’re guessing Saddam is worse.
Next entry: New Metallica album to include bonus DVD
Previous entry: The Strokes grant Nigel Godrich a tryout