The Rock House Blog: 2010/10

10.28.2010

Native Instruments Introduces GEORGE DUKE SOUL TREASURES

Native Instruments today introduced GEORGE DUKE SOUL TREASURES, a new software instrument that makes the charismatic keyboard work of soul legend George Duke available for any music production. Based on advanced KONTAKT sampling technology, the instrument provides over 500 exclusive licks that can be easily tweaked and re-arranged to suit any musical context, providing an inspirational resource of royalty-free melodic elements for Hip Hop, R&B, Soul, Funk, Disco, House and similar genres.

GEORGE DUKE SOUL TREASURES captures the unique musical style of a living legend of the American jazz and soul scene, whose distinctive funky and soulful licks have been sampled relentlessly in recent and contemporary urban and dance music. Together with his sound engineer Erik Zobler, George Duke has recorded over 500 original keyboard phrases on his personal grand piano, electric piano, Wurlitzer and
clavinet models exclusively for his signature software instrument.

GEORGE DUKE SOUL TREASURES can be used both with the free KONTAKT PLAYER and in the full-featured KONTAKT 4 software sampler. Due to the advanced slicing and time-stretching functions in KONTAKT, all loops automatically sync to the song tempo of the sequencer, and can be modulated, re-pitched, and even completely rearranged in real-time via an intuitive keyboard trigger scheme.

For creative sound mangling, various multi-effect chains can be activated through the keyboard on the fly, with a flexible filter section and a studiograde convolution reverb offering further sound shaping options. Every lick in GEORGE DUKE SOUL TREASURES is also available in an additional "Tubes & Tape" version that was processed through a sophisticated analog recording chain at George Duke's studio, resulting in
an even grittier authentic vintage sound.

More info at http://www.native-instruments.com

D’Addario Introduces Nylon Tapewound Bass, Flatwound Mandolinand Stainless Steel Banjo Strings

D’Addario is excited to announce the newest additions to their string product line. The Nylon Tapewound Bass Strings, Flatwound Mandolin Strings and Stainless Steel Banjo Strings are eloquently crafted from the finest materials, giving them long-lasting life and unrivaled tone.

The Nylon Tapewound Bass Strings are designed to produce a deep, warm tone while providing a smooth, comfortable feel. D’Addario Tapewound Bass strings are wound using a flattened black nylon which is polished to an ultra-smooth finish. These long-lasting, well-balanced strings are expertly engineered to provide optimal tension and are gauged to fit properly on standard bass saddles and nuts. Tapewounds may be used on fretted or fretless basses and are designed to deliver a vintage tone ranging from the “thump” of an upright bass to the focused depth of traditional flatwound strings.

The Flatwound Mandolin strings are constructed using a complex combination of interlocking underwindings on a hex core, which builds the foundation for a delicate outer flat (ribbon) winding. This unique design allows the strings to vibrate freely, creating a true, clear sound and an ultra-smooth feel. Created for jazz, classical and folk players, they deliver unparalleled comfort for playing closed position fingerings and up the fretboard.

The Stainless Steel Banjo Strings were developed in conjunction with some of the finest banjo players in the world. After extensive research, D’Addario has determined the optimal core to wrap ratio for proper tension. They are designed to be extremely long lasting and contain a stainless steel 4th, which has become a standard for today’s most admirable banjo manufacturers. Each set delivers a bright, clear tone with pure sustain.

“We are very pleased with the overall outcome of the new Nylon Tapewound Bass, Flatwound Mandolin, and Stainless Steel Banjo string sets,” says D’Addario Product Management Manager, Brian Vance. “These sets broaden the versatility and tones that players currently strive for across the board.”

The Nylon Tapewound Bass Strings will retail for $62.99; Flatwound Mandolin Strings will retail for $29.99, and Stainless Steel Banjo Strings will retail for $6.99. All of these new D’Addario string sets will be available as of October 1, 2010.

For more information on D’Addario strings, please visit www.daddario.com.

Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings Crank Up "Test Drive Electric" Contest

Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings are giving emerging artists the unique opportunity to kick their careers and guitar rigs into high gear with Test Drive Electric 2010. Together with the band-promoting website Sonicbids.com, Taylor and Elixir are bringing back the “fan-favorite” contest to award five select artists with world-class Taylor SolidBody electric guitars, the ultimate in strings and cables from Elixir, and a Crybaby Wah pedal and Max Grip Nylon Picks from Dunlop. The winning artist or band will get the chance to show off their musical prowess and new gear in a recording session at a world-class music studio.

Contest submissions are free and easy, as the fees are covered by Taylor and Elixir. Now through November 23, musicians can upload their electronic press kits to the Sonicbids Test Drive website, where fans will vote for their favorite artist. From the initial submissions, the 50 top-voted artists will qualify for the next round. A panel made up of the artist relations teams from Taylor and Elixir will then select the top five artists from the pool of 50. These five finalists will be outfitted with new gear from Taylor, Elixir and Dunlop, and will be challenged to create a short video that showcases how they used their new gear. The videos will be posted on the contest website for a second round of voting in mid-February.

At the end of the voting period, the band with the most votes will receive free recording time at a marquee studio along and enjoy an artist relationship with both Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings.

To enter, please visit: www.sonicbids.com or www.sonicbids.com/Opportunity/OpportunityView.aspx?opportunity_id=100554

News Release

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

Rock House Promo - Gary Hoey "The Need For Lead" Pre-Sale Special Bundle

Check out our latest release, THE NEED FOR LEAD, Phrases, Hooks & Melodies, the NEW 2 DVD Set with guitar legend Gary Hoey. Order it NOW during the exclusive pre-sale in the Rock House Store and save $$$, If you opt for the SPECIAL BUNDLE, you receive the 2 DVD set, Gary's new CD, $5 coupon and a bonus DVD from Rock House with over 20 lessons on it, A $60 value for only $29.99!

CLICK HERE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS OFFER NOW!

Vote For Rock House At MSRetailer.com For The "Show Us Your Tubes" Contest

Music and Sound Retail Magazine (www.msretailer.com) a contest called "Show Us Yourtubes" that is currently underway. The contest involves 4 videos that were featured in October. Now the music industry web site is asking for the public to vote for their favorite video out of those four. The winner The winner will become one of 3 finalists that will be shown on ConventionTV@NAMM 2011.

click the link and vote for Rock House's Video titled "This is how we teach the ABC"s at Rock House"

Link - http://msretailer.com/youtubes/

10.27.2010

INTERVIEW-Alexi Laiho, 11 Things You MAY Not Have Known About Him

On October 18, Alexi Laiho, the Children of Bodom frontman and Rock House Instructor sat down with the guys from Rock House to have a little fun and answer some different questions.

www.RockHouseMethod.com

REVIEW-Metal Guitar Writing With Rob Arnold Of CHIMAIRA From ShredKnowledge.com

I see Shred Knowledge has posted a review of the Rock House DVD Metal Guitar Writing With Rob Arnold Of CHIMAIRA. Check it out at METAL GUITAR WRITING WITH ROB ARNOLD -CHIMAIRA

Find it The Rock House Store or Rock House On Demand

Alexi Laiho, 11 Things You MAY Not Have Known About Him (Version 1)

Gus G. Guitar Lesson From His Rock House DVD "Lead & Rhythm Techniques" w/Tab

Rock House recently added Gus G to their family of growing instructors. The release of the heavy metal guitarist latest DVD has brought some rave reviews. Here is a look at a lesson from the guitar instructional DVD "Lead and Rhythm Techniques"

In this lesson the guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and FIREWIND shows you the main phrygian major lead section from his band FIREWIND's song Fire & The Fury. The guitar lesson comes from his 2 DVD set Leads & Rhythms from Rock House. The DVD features over 40 lessons.

More info at RockHouseMethod.com, Rock House On Demand or the Rock House Store

Click the image to enlarge!

10.26.2010

Planet Waves Introduces The Unique Takslyd Glass Guitar Slide

Planet Waves has announced the release of its new premium glass slide product, Takslyd.

The Takslyd is a glass guitar slide that attaches to any surface by using a hook-and-loop material adhered to the custom flat surface of the slide. Each Takslyd is handmade to achieve its custom shape and is then cut and fire-polished for a flawless finish.

Takslyd is engineered with an adhesive backing, so it can be placed on any surface, such as the back of a guitar’s headstock, a mic stand, an amplifier, and more.

“When it comes to standardized musical accessory products, you have to think outside the box,” says Rob Cunningham, Planet Waves Product Specialist. “The Takslyd from Planet Waves makes it possible for the average player to switch from standard to slide playing without effort. Plus, you’ll never lose it!”

Planet Waves’ Takslyd retails for $14.99 and is available now.

More info at Planet Waves

Review of Behringer XM 8500 Microphone by Terry White

My name is Terry White and I am a guitarist/musician and have been for a little over 20 years, and have been a member here at Rock House for several years now.

The music business can be expensive, very expensive and if there is a less expensive way to get something accomplished I research everything I can to find it.

If there is a topic or a product that you may want more information about please feel free to ask, post some of your own suggestions. If I don't have the answer for you I am sure that someone here will have. This is a never ending education for us all.

This is one of those reviews that’s really pretty simple but at the same time I really am not sure where to start so I am just going to start at the time that the microphone arrived.

I was shipped a pair of Behringer XM8500 microphones and the first thing I noticed when I opened the package was the fact that Behringer packs these microphones in a small very hard, and well cushioned plastic carrying case. Nothing large or bulky, just big enough to hold a single microphone along with a microphone clip. There is a small latch at the top that holds the case securely closed and it is cushioned well enough to be dropped from arm’s length without any damage. How do I know this, well I dropped it while it was in the case several times and it still works just fine.

(Please do not do this to your own if you have one, I only did this so that I could say for sure that in the case that you might accidently drop one while it’s in the storage case there is a really good chance that there will be no damage at all)

Once I opened the case and took the mic out I immediately noticed that it was much better constructed than I had thought it would have been for its price. It is constructed of very heavy and durable metal that you normally find only on microphones costing much more.

You know the kind of low end construction you normally get for a low price, we have all gone out to a local electronics or value store (not going to mention any names here) and bought the cheapest mic that we could find simply because we did not have enough money to buy a better one, and they are usually constructed mostly of plastic, and last only a few months and sound like your singing into a tin can, and still had to pay about $30.00 for it.

Those days are over.

Behringer has done it once again; I’m shocked I really am. For the price of those old cheap microphones I just mentioned you can now get a high quality professional microphone that can stand up to being dragged from one show to another over and over and still work and sound great.

Getting Started: When I plugged it in the cable seats securely and stays connected. No hum or any other noise to speak of that I could notice. If feels good in the hand. This is no dinky little mic.

Sound: Here is where you are just going to have to go out and get one to believe me. I tested it against the closest microphone I could find to compare it to, the Sure SM58.

Now I know there are going to be a lot of people that are going to read this and say, yea right, it’s a Behringer how good could it really be. Also I am not bashing Sure microphones, I use it as an example in order to have a microphone to compare the Behringer to, and I happen to have one here.

Here is my opinion: After using it myself for a couple of hours and making up my own mind I decided to do a little experiment. I used some dark colored masking tape and covered anywhere on both microphones the Sure SM58 and the Behringer XM8500 so that no one could tell which mic was which and I asked 3 other vocalist to try each microphone one at a time. They could choose any song they wanted and could use all the time they wanted. I had the mics run through only a pair of Peavey PR15N active loudspeakers, no mixers, no special noise suppressors, just plugged straight into the small onboard mixers on the speakers. (I wanted to use Behringer speakers but I don’t have any. Yet!)

The results were the same with all 3 people; every single one of them chose the Behringer XM8500. They all agreed that it just simply sounded better. The clarity was good with just a touch more bass than the SM58 but dialing back the bass on the Peavey’s onboard 3 band EQ just a touch balanced that out right away.

After I removed the tape and let them all see that they had just choose the Behringer over the Sure microphone none of them could believe it. But 2 of the 3 people I used for this test have now gone out and purchased a set of 4 of the XM8500’s and are currently using them, this has all happened in just the last few days.

Bottom Line: I have no idea how Behringer is able to manufacture the products that they do for such low prices but you know what, I really don’t care. The bottom line is that if you are lucky you can go out and find a Sure SM58 microphone for around $99.00 I say lucky because more often than not you will pay a little more, or you can go out and buy the Behringer XM8500 for as little as $19.99 and you will get all around quality, sound, and durability that is every bit as good and in my opinion better than the Sure microphone and its at one fourth the price. And you get a cool little carrying case instead of a little vinyl bag to store it in.

One more quick note, I had to test it with a guitar amplifier so I used one of them to mic off my 412 speaker cabinet for my guitar amplifier and it sound great. No feedback at all. So it’s not only a great vocal microphone but it also works great if you need to mic off you guitar amplifier or other instruments.

I think it just ROCKS that we finally have a company making gear that your average musician can afford to purchase and still get a high quality product. Not all of us make millions of dollars a year and it looks like Behringer is one of the only companies that seems to understand that.

Don’t take my word for it, buy one and see for yourself. Most of us spend far more than $20.00 for decent guitar cables.

Link: Behringer XM 8500 Microphone

Terry White

Luna Guitar - NAMM 2011 Giant Prize Giveaway

Giant Namm Prize Pack!

Luna is offering a lucky player the chance to feel like the proverbial "Kid in a Candy Store". Each January, for more than 100 years, 1000's of manufacturers, millions of musical products, bazillions of attendees, have all come together at NAMM for the largest musical products show on the PLANET!

This year, you could be there too!
Meet Luna artist Vicki Genfan and hear her perform from a front row table at the 2011 Muriel Anderson All Star Night on Saturday 15 and be our guest at the NAMM show on Sunday 16! And to top it off, we will send you a Vicki Genfan Signature Guitar upon your return home!

Prize includes round-trip airfare for one from your hometown and two nights at the Embassy Suites in Anaheim. We can arrange for two tickets to both the Muriel Anderson event and NAMM should a friend wish to accompany you.

You can view some of the top talent that has performed at past All Star Nights here.

Eligible contestants may enter online ONLY at www.lunaguitars.com from 12:00 Noon (EST) on July 7, 2010 through 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on November 15, 2010. Winner will be announced on our site Nov. 25, 2010. Entries are limited to residents of the United States 18 or older.

Register to win this memorable experience!
Read full contest rules and privacy policy.

Premier Guitar Mag's November Issue Is Out

Premier Guitar Magazine, has launched their November issue. The popular online magazine is free – and environmentally friendly. Subscribe to Their digital edition and you can access PG in its entirety each month. Read it, search it, share it or download it!

http://www.premierguitar.com/newsletter/

November 2010 Issue Highlights
	Tone Games: The 2010 Pedal Roundup Looking for that elusive puzzle piece to complete the perfect pedalboard (for now, at least)? Then join the fray as we put 30 new pedals through their paces—and then qualify for the Pedalboard Extras Bonus Round.

	Ron Wood Rolling Stones renaissance man Ron Wood sits down with Premier Guitar to talk about his star-studded new solo album, I Feel Like Playing, his favorite ’55 Strat and tweed Champ, and how he’s managed to conquer the world several times over as both a renowned guitarist and painter.

	Iron Maiden Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janick Gers’ searing licks catapult The Final Frontier to the top of the metal charts and prove— again—that Iron Maiden is the world’s heaviest guitar trio.

	Zakk Wylde Armed with his bull’s-eye-themed axes and fresh on the heels of his 10th release with Black Label Society, Zakk Wylde proves he’s still one of the hungriest men of metal—even if he wouldn’t mind writing a tune for Britney Spears or the Eagles.

	Builder Profile: Electro-Harmonix Premier Guitar peeks inside the brain of Electro-Harmonix founder Mike Matthews—the man whose off-the-wall stompboxes generated countless classic tones and changed the guitar universe forever.

	5 Boutique Stompbox Builders You Should Know They’re a little crazy. They’re a little obsessive. And they relentlessly pursue both the tones you crave and those no one has heard yet. That’s why they’re among the most impressive pedal builders in the world today.

	Experience PRS 2010 Come along with PG to the annual PRS extravaganza to take a peek at new guitar and amp models, the factory, and performances from PRS artists.

Announcing Guitar Nation Live 2010 In London

Guitar Nation Live 2010 is the UK biggest Guitar show and has everything any guitarist or musician can wish for: Top stars, fantastic exhibition of the best gear, concerts, masterclasses and seminars.

Whether you're buying, selling, trading or just browsing amongst the hundreds of new and vintage guitars, basses, amps, pedals, straps and strings, top retailers, manufacturers and music memorabilia - Guitar Nation Live is a dedicated guitar exhibition of over 120 stands where you can see the latest styles, the weird, the handmade and the newest technology. Exhibitors include Marshall Amps, Bose, PRS guitars and many other famous brands, plus there’s an amazing range of freebies included in your ticket price;

- Free Guitar lessons from Tech Music Schools

- Free to view: World exclusive preview of Eric Clapton Crossroads Guitars to be auctioned for charity by Bonhams LA in March 2011. See up close some of the rarest most desirable guitar set-ups on the planet!

- Free Set of Ernie Ball strings or Rotosound Bass Strings on advance ticket bookings

- Free Guitar Icons photographic exhibition (Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards, Brian May etc) from Proud Galleries

- Free instrument valuation from Allianz

- Free hearing test with the Musicians Union

- Free to enter competitions to win cool prizes including two Jet City 2112RC 20w guitar combo amps.

- Free performances and seminars from world class artists and key music industry pros:

o Pink Floyd’s Guy Pratt presents touring with ‘My Bass and Other Animals’

o Phil Hilborne live with his band

o The Hamsters : See the UK's best blues-rock band live in concert

o Guitar Master Albert Lee and Hogan’s Heroes in concert

o YOUTH ; Uber-producer (The Verve, U2) /Killing Joke bassist shows how to make music that matters

o Sting’s guitarist, Dominic Miller and Percussionist Rhani Krija perform together with Guy Pratt

o Top Jazz guitarist Martin Taylor talks about his academy and learning to play the guitar

o Hard hitting discussion panels from XFM with guest speakers and station DJ’s

The show organisers are also excited to have Guitar God Steve Vai making his only UK appearance this year when he’ll be appearing at two master classes at Guitar Nation 2010. These ticket only events will be;

o ‘An Audience with Steve Vai’ presented by London’s top music School, The Guitar Institute

o ‘Where The Wild Songs Are’ - Steve Vai presents a Flex-Able/Passion and Warfare recording session re-creating some of his most iconic guitar tracks.

Serious about music – You have to be at Guitar Nation 2010!

For further information and news updates see www.guitarnation2010.com and for ticket information contact info@musicnation.eu or ring 01572 757 775

Behind The Scenes At Rock House With Alexi Laiho

In January of 2010 Alexi Laiho lead guitarist of Children of Bodom visited Rock House to work on his new video for his latest guitar instruction products. Here is a look John McCarthy and Alexi brainstorming about the upcoming instructional DVD. Stay tuned to the Rock House Blog or www.RockHouseMethod.com for new info on this exiting new series of DVD's.

David Ellefson of MEGADETH Featured In Bass Player Mag's Holiday Issue

MEGADETH's metal bass guitarist David Ellefson who, is coincidentally one of the very first Rock House Instructors has the honor of gracing the cover of Bass Player Magazines Holiday issue.

You can check out Davids Instructional DVD's at The Rock House Store or at Rock House On Demand

Derek Kerswill Splits from UNEARTH

Drummer Derek Kerswill has decided to parts ways with his heavy metal band UNEARTH. Kerswill has been touring with UNEARTH for the past 3 years. In a blog post on the bands My Space site the band cites the reason for the split is due to creative differences.

According to the blog post.

We have shared a ton of great experiences and achieved many of the goals we set for ourselves in the time he was in the band. There is no ill will from either side of this decision and we wish him only the best moving forward.

"Creative differences are real and unfortunately have gotten the best of me. I wish the guys luck in the future and thank you to everyone who ever loved + supported "The March"," Kerswill said.

Unearth won't skip a beat, though, as we will be announcing a replacement drummer for our upcoming European stint on the Persistence Tour shortly. Lastly some exciting plans are coming together for the recording to the follow up to "The March" sometime early in 2011.

UNEARTH also stated that it's time for a new album.

UNEARTH features Rock House Instructor Buz McGrath doing his thing on 7 string guitar.

10.25.2010

Alexi Laiho, 11 Things You Never Knew About Him!

10.21.2010

Enter Your AmpKit Recording Session For A Chance to Win a Peavey Classic 30/112 Amplifier!®®

Press Release from Peavey

Peavey Electronics and Agile Partners, along with our friends at Guitar World and SoundCloud, are excited to announce the AmpKit Ultimate Tone Contest! Enter one of your amazing AmpKit recording sessions for a chance to win a Peavey Classic 30/112 amplifier and other prizes! AmpKit is available in two versions:

AmpKit, a free app, available on the iTunes App Store, comes with a Peavey ValveKing amp (clean and very-high-gain lead channels), two ValveKing cabinets (4x12 and 1x12), two pedals (Noise Gate, Elevenizer overdrive pedal), two mics (Workhorse 57 dynamic mic, Germann 87 condenser mic), and a built-in Noise & Feedback Filter.

AmpKit+ is a paid app ($19.99 in the US App Store) that includes everything in the free version PLUS the following additional gear at less than half their individual prices: Peavey 3120 amp with clean, rhythm, and ultra-high-gain lead channels and matching 4x12 cabinet; Colonel Vintage amp paired with matching 4x10 and 1x12 cabinets; Vintage Brit amp with matching 2x12 cabinet; and distortion, fuzz, compressor, chorus, phaser, flanger, reverb, and 10-band EQ pedals!

How to Enter:
1. Join the SoundCloud group called the "AmpKit Ultimate Tone Contest."

2. Record your own awesome AmpKit session (between 30 and 90 seconds long)

3. Send your session directly from AmpKit to SoundCloud, including details about your amp & pedal setup in the Track Description.

4. Finally, log into SoundCloud and submit your track to the AmpKit Ultimate Tone Contest group by clicking the "+ Send to Group" button.

Prizes:
Grand Prize: A Peavey Classic 30/112 amp! Born and built where it all began, the Peavey Classic® Series has evolved in the Mississippi Delta since 1973. All vintage vibes, versatility and wailing gain possibilities, these amplifiers come alive with the magic combination of 12AX7 and EL84 tubes and a timeless design from one of music's enduring innovators. This is the same Classic amp we modeled in AmpKit, and is one of our favorites.

In addition, five lucky entrants will be randomly drawn to receive a one-year subscription to Guitar World Magazine and their choice of GuitarToolkit, TabToolkit or AmpKit+!

Contest Rules:
Submit your AmpKit recording before Midnight EST, Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010. The Grand Prize winner will be selected by a distinguished panel of judges:

Rusty Cooley - Renowned shred guitarist and Peavey artist

Hartley Peavey - Founder & CEO, Peavey Electronics Corporation

Brad Tolinkski - Editor-in-Chief, Guitar World Magazine

The judges will apply the following criteria to select the Grand Prize winner: guitar playing quality, performance quality (i.e., played with passion, from your heart), and tone quality based on the creative use of AmpKit gear.

The Grand Prize winner and five randomly selected contest participants will be announced before 6:00 pm EST on Monday, November 8th, 2010 and contacted via a SoundCloud message.

We can't wait to listen to your entry. Good luck!

Guitar and bass guitar recordings only. Recordings must be newly created in AmpKit or AmpKit+ using AmpKit amps and effects and directly uploaded to SoundCloud, no post-editing allowed. Only one entry per person. Employees of Agile Partners, Peavey Electronics, Guitar World, and their family members are not eligible. For questions, contact info@agilepartners.com.

Win a set of Fervor Classic Stratocaster Pickups

Head on over to the Fervor Pickups web site and get your entry submitted for their classic Stratocaster pickup giveaway.

A set of three Fervor Classic Strat pickups sells for $225, so even of you’re rocking a Squier® you can drop these in and get custom shop-quality tone! All residents of the United States and Canada who are at least 13 years old eligible. We will accept entries through 11:59:59 PM Pacific Time on November 31, 2010.

Specs:
    * Sand-cast Alnico rod magnets
       (Similar to those found in ‘50s-vintage pickups)
    * Highest-quality copper coil wire
    * Carefully cut black vulcanized fiberboard
    * Nickel-plated eyelets
    * Standard output: neck – 5.8K, middle – 5.6K, bridge – 6.4K

Do it now! http://www.fervorpickups.com

Gary Ho Ho Hoey's Rockin’ Holiday Tour 2010

The season is about upon us, some my think it's too early to think about the holiday season but Rock House Instructor Gary Hoey has been busy putting together his famous Ho Ho Hoey Rockin' Holiday Tour. All I can say is if the tour is close to you get out and see it, I've never ran into anyone that went to it and didn;t have an awesome night.

Hoey has also just released his newest CD Utopia. More info on that is at http://garyhoey.com and his Rock House Method Instructional DVD "The Need For Lead" is currently available for pre-order at this LINK

Ho Ho Hoey's Rockin’ Holiday Tour 2010

11/26/10 Friday	Gary Hoey in Detroit, MI	City Theatre	US
	Time: 7:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
11/27/10 Saturday	Gary Hoey in Pittsburgh, PA	Altar Bar	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
11/28/10 Sunday	Gary Hoey in Chicago, IL	Reggie’s Bar	US
	Time: 6:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
12/01/10 Wednesday	Gary Hoey in Sellersville, PA	Sellersville Theater	US
	Time: 7:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
12/02/10 Thursday	Gary Hoey in Norfolk, CT	Infinity Hall	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
12/03/10 Friday	Gary Hoey in Lincoln, RI	Twin River Casino	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Free Show!
12/04/10 Saturday	Gary Hoey in Salisbury, MA	Blue Ocean Music Hall	US
	Time: 8:00pm. All Ages
12/14/10 Tuesday	Gary Hoey in Exeter, CA	Orange Blossom Junction	US
	Time: 7:00pm.
12/15/10 Wednesday	Gary Hoey in Bakersfield, CA	Fox Theater	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages
12/16/10 Thursday	Gary Hoey in Redondo Beach, CA	Brixton	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. 21+
12/17/10 Friday	Gary Hoey in San Juan Capistrano, CA	The Coach House	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. All Ages W/ Adult
12/18/10 Saturday	Gary Hoey in San Diego CA	House of Blues	US
	Time: 8:00pm. Buy Tickets. 21+

10.20.2010

Rob Balducci's "Lick Of The Week" Guitar Lesson On Octave Displacement

Nice vid from Rock House Instructor Rob Balducci where he goes over and demonstrates how he uses octaves with different scales.

ROB BALDUCCI

FRREKBASS Receives 2010 CEA Award Nomination


Scott Peterson Photography

Rock House Funk Bass Guitar Instructor FREEKBASS is once again being honored with a nomination for the 2010 Cincinnati Entertainment Award (CEA). Show some love and support by going to CityBeat.com to vote and show your support for him.

Link - http://www.citybeat.com/

FREEKBASS - Links

5 Free Downloads from ATREYU "Covers of The Damned"

Don't know how long they will be up for but, you can head over to Guvera and snatch up some free "Covers of The Damned" downloads. Available at the sight are "Livin' On The Edge", "Holiday Inn Cambodia", "Guitar Gangsters and Cadillac Blood", The Boys Are Back In Town" and "My Own Summer"

ATRETU features Rock House Instructor "Big" Dan Jacobs doing his thing on guitar.

"BIG" DAN JACOBS - Links

Mini Movie From Rob Arnolds New Band The Elite

Rob Arnold of Chimaira has a new project under way with his band The Elite. The Rock House Instructor just released a mini movie with the metal band that serves as an introduction to the band, and an in-depth look at the creation of their "WW3 EP". The Elite also features Bleed The Sky's Austin D'Amond.

http://www.myspace.com/theelite

http://www.twitter.com/officialelite

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Elite

10.18.2010

Pre Sale Announced For Gary Hoey's Rock House Instructional Guitar DVD "The Need For Lead"

Executive Director of Rock House Method Joe Palombo announced that the long awaited and much anticipated instructional DVD featuring Gary Hoey is now available for pre sale.

After nearly 20 years as one of the world's best guitar players, Gary Hoey is finally letting all his secrets out of the "bag". Gary has 16 albums, 5 Top 20 Billboard Hits and is on the list of Top 100 Guitarist of All Time. For the first time every and fresh off the release of his latest CD UTOPIA, Gary is revealing his inside secrets for Rock House in THE NEED FOR LEAD, PHRASES, HOOKS & MELODIES!

"The Need For Lead" will focus on learning Gary's favorite scales, patterns, blues scales and the modes he uses to create soulful leads that grab the audience. Gary shows how he uses bends, hammer ons, pull offs, slides and reveals how he developed his signature vibrato. He covers his tricks for fretboard visualization, syncopated timings, melodic phrasing, string skipping intervals and the elements that give him command of a variety of musical genres.

You can purchase this special 2 DVD set that features over 40 lessons, interview, live performances, 36-Page Interactive Tab Book and Behind the Scenes Photos at a discount during our exclusive pre-sale or save even more money and buy the bundle which also includes Gary's new CD UTOPIA and more! ORDER NOW CLICK HERE

10.15.2010

Gary Hoey "The Need for Lead" Guitar Instruction DVD, Pre-Sale

10.14.2010

Jackson® Introduces New JS Series of Guitars

In continuing the celebration of its 30th Anniversary, Jackson is proud to welcome five new affordable JS Series models to The Bloodline, all featuring double-locking tremolo systems, licensed by Floyd Rose®.

Available in five classic and instantly-recognizable Jackson designs – Dinky™, Kelly™, King V™, Rhoads and Warrior™ – the new JS3 guitars feature the company’s unique compound-radius fingerboard beloved by Jackson shredders worldwide. Furthermore, they boast 24 frets and Jackson’s trademark shark-fin inlays, and include a Jackson standard gig bag.

The new JS3 models include:

• JS32R Dinky – Classic Jackson speed, sound and high performance in a model that was one of the original Jackson innovations. Features include two Jackson high-output covered humbucking pickups and double-locking, Floyd-Rose® licensed tremolo system.

• JS32 Kelly – Shaped like a bolt from darkened skies and sounding even hotter, with two Jackson high-output covered humbucking pickups and double-locking, Floyd-Rose® licensed tremolo system.

• JS32 King V – The King V demands the loyalty of its subjects, with two Jackson high-output covered humbucking pickups and double-locking, Floyd-Rose® licensed tremolo system.

• JS32 Rhoads – The sleek, offset-V Rhoads is the legendary heart from which the Jackson Bloodline is pumped, and features two Jackson high-output covered humbucking pickups and double-locking, Floyd-Rose® licensed tremolo system.

• JS32 Warrior – Outlandish look. Brutal sound. The aptly named Warrior always emerges victorious. With two Jackson high-output covered humbucking pickups, and double-locking, Floyd-Rose® licensed tremolo system.

The Jackson JS32R Dinky guitar is available at Jackson dealers with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $529.99. Jackson JS32 Kelly, JS32 King V, JS32 Rhoads and JS32 Warrior guitars are available at Jackson dealers with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $549.99. For more information, and to locate a dealer near you, go to www.jacksonguitars.com.

Fender Unviels The John Mayer Special Edition BLACK1 Stratocaster®

John Mayer’s black Stratocaster guitar has been his go-to instrument for years. He has relied on it for countless recording sessions and performances, and he affectionately calls it the “BLACK1.” In collaboration with John, Fender is now offering a collectible, 500-piece special edition of this guitar worldwide.

John implores everyone to “make their own trouble on it” and, through their own musical experiences, to give it the same kind of extreme wear and battle scars that his personal guitar bears.

The John Mayer Special Edition BLACK1 Stratocaster shares features with his 2005 signature model; notably, a slightly oversized “C”-shaped neck and “Big Dipper” single-coil pickups wound to John’s exacting specifications. Upgraded BLACK1 features include gold hardware and a model-exclusive, super-protective Incase® gig bag. Designed in collaboration with John, the gig bag can be customized using its modular accessory compartments and patch set (included).

MSRP $2199.00

go to http://www.fender.com for specs and more info

Taylor Announces Steven Curtis Chapman Signature Model

With five Grammys, an American Music Award, and more Dove Awards than any other artist in the history of the Gospel Music Association, Steven Curtis Chapman (815c Brazilian, 814c, 714ce, 712ce, 512-M, 510) has amassed a hit-studded musical catalog and inspired legions of fans over the past two decades. At the heart of Chapman’s songs is a message of hope and love, a message he pairs with a moving tribute to his daughter in his new Taylor signature model guitar, the SCCSM.

Based on his primary stage guitar, a Taylor 714, the SCCSM honors Chapman’s late daughter Maria by incorporating design touches recreated from one of her last crayon drawings. The peghead features a six-petal flower with only one of the petals completed in blue. On the fretboard at the 12th fret, the word “See,” inlaid in her handwriting, accompanies a small mother-of-pearl butterfly: a call to “see” beyond the immediate and towards hope. The fretboard also includes small mother-of-pearl dots on the bass side.

Each SCCSM includes Taylor’s tone-enhancing relief rout and is equipped with the company’s award-winning Expression System® pickup to dial in pristine acoustic tones. Along with a hard shell case, the SCCSM comes with a custom guitar label and a certificate of authenticity signed by Chapman. The guitar will be available at Authorized Taylor Dealers this fall at a suggested retail price of $3,998.

Go to http://www.taylorguitars.com/ for more info

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