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Showing posts with label metal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label metal. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

BYOB Children Of The Korn & Smashing Alice: Vegas Crowd Magnets That Pack The House!

 Today, I'm digging through fan mail, blog comments, and Facebook messages, and one comment jumped off the screen louder than a Marshall stack cranked to 11. It came from Craig, a die-hard music fan, a BaDD-A$$ drummer in our local music scene, and one cool dude. Craig fired off this observation about my blog post yesterday: Read it < Here >

"If you're really plugged in to the so-called scene, you would have heard from the people that own the Tuscany that BYOB and Children Of The Korn and Smashing Alice pack that room more than anyone, every single time."

First things first. The blog I wrote yesterday was based strictly on the stats from that particular week, not an all-time scoreboard. And yes, I know all three bands Craig mentioned. More importantly, all three have proven time and time again that they can put bodies through the front door and keep crowds coming back for more. So, let's shine the spotlight where it belongs.

Band Page


BYOB has become one of those bands that Vegas rock fans circle on the calendar the moment a show is announced. Bringing the power, energy, and attitude of System Of A Down to the stage, they don't just perform songs, they launch an all-out assault on your senses. The band's loyal following is no accident. They've earned every fan one thunderous performance at a time, packing venues with people who know exactly what they're getting: a high-octane night of controlled chaos and heavy-hitting rock.

Band Page


Then there's Children Of The Korn, a tribute that captures the raw intensity, groove, and aggression that made Korn one of the biggest names in nu-metal history. From the moment they hit the stage, the crowd is locked in. Heads start banging, fists go in the air, and the energy level skyrockets. Their shows aren't just concerts; they're gatherings for an entire tribe of fans who refuse to let the spirit of nu-metal fade away.

Band Page



And let's not forget Smashing Alice, a band that continues to build a reputation for delivering hard rock with conviction, attitude, and authenticity. Their performances connect with audiences because they're fueled by a genuine love of the music and a determination to leave everything on the stage. Every time they roll into a venue, they bring a crowd that's ready to rock, and they never leave disappointed!

The bottom line? Las Vegas is loaded with great bands, but these three have earned their place in the conversation. They've built loyal fan bases, consistently draw strong crowds, and remind us why the local rock scene is alive and kicking. So the next time BYOB, Children Of The Korn, or Smashing Alice lands on a local bill, quit scrolling, grab your friends, head to the venue, buy a ticket, and support live music. These 3 bands are bringing the noise!

Check out their links below their Band Pics, mark your calendars, and get yourself to a show. There's nothing like experiencing these bands live, where the lights are blazing, the amps are roaring, and the energy hits you right in the chest. Support the local scene, support live music, and discover why BYOB, Children Of The Korn, and Smashing Alice continue to pack rooms and keep Vegas rock fans coming back for more. Trust me, this is one concert recommendation you don't want to scroll past. 馃馃敟馃幐

Gary England

Sunday, September 6, 2026

Queensr每che Hit Las Vegas Saturday Night Inside The Cannery Casino Hotel With A Meteor Barrage Of Non-Stop Hits That Left The Club Glowing in the Afterburn!

 Saturday, September 5th, 2026

Queensryche 

Cannery Casino Hotel "The Club"



Queensr每che’s evolution from their early 1980s metal beginnings to the present day reads like a masterclass in artistic growth! 
They rose quickly with a sound that blended heavy-metal precision, power‑metal fire, and the atmospheric ambition that would make them pioneers of progressive metal. Through the decades, the band kept pushing boundaries, refining their craft, and expanding their musical reach. 
Then came June 2012 — a turning point that felt less like a shake‑up and more like a rebirth. Todd La Torre stepped in and immediately reignited the band’s signature energy, bringing a fresh spark that lit up both studio and stage. 
Joined by founding forces Michael Wilton and Eddie Jackson, the return of guitarist Mike Stone, and the dynamic drumming of Casey Grillo, 
Queensr每che stands today as a revitalized, battle‑ready band, one that honors its legacy while hitting the modern era with renewed strength and unmistakable purpose!

Saturday night, Queensr每che stormed The Club stage inside the Cannery Casino Hotel and took no hostages, firing off a set of over 90 minutes that hit the room like a precision‑guided missile! 

Queensr每che hit the Cannery like a detonation, blasting through swirling lights, rolling smoke, and arena‑grade sound. It was a totally awesome experience!

The band erupted like a sonic boom, sending metal shrapnel across the crowd as they launched straight into "Queen of the Reich". They kept the adrenaline spiking with "Operation Mindcrime", "Walk In The Shadows", "Speak", "I Don't Believe In Love", "Best I Can", and "Warning". Before Todd threw the switch and blasted the house lights back on, he leaned into this easy, laid‑back moment with the crowd, a full showroom of diehards packed tight into The Club. He wasn’t “addressing an audience”; he was talking with old friends, thanking everyone for showing up and hitting the night with the kind of energy only Las Vegas fans bring. It felt like one of those catch‑ups you fall into with people you haven’t seen in a while — warm, familiar, and real.

Those few minutes felt like the calm before the next detonation — a rare, quiet pocket in the night where the band caught their breath and the room held still. It wasn’t long, just enough time for Queensr每che to reset, reload, and let the adrenaline settle for half a heartbeat.

And when they kicked back in, it was obvious that breather didn’t slow them down; it supercharged them. Their internal metal meter wasn’t just back in the green; it was pegged past 100%, redlining like a machine built to run hotter than physics should allow!

Queensr每che came out swinging like a trained MMA fighter with a score to settle, blasting into the set with "Neue Regel", "Behind the Walls"," Take Hold of the Flame", and "Silent Lucidity". By then, The Club wasn’t just packed — it was alive, every voice locked in, every fan singing every word like they were right up there onstage with the band.

Then came the next barrage: "Jet City Woman", "Screaming in Digital", and "Anarchy X" — each one hitting with the force of a flaming meteor slamming straight into the Las Vegas Strip.

Another quick breather followed, just long enough for Todd to introduce the band and share a moment with the fans packed into the Club. Then Queensr每che fired off the final salvo: "Revolution Calling", "Empire", and the night‑ending knockout punch, "Eyes of a Stranger".

As for my review grade?

Queensr每che closed out the night like a band dead‑set on proving why they’re still one of the most lethal forces in metal. Every member was firing at peak power — razor‑sharp guitars slicing through the room, bass lines rumbling like underground Vegas thunder, drums hitting with the precision of a seasoned prizefighter, and Todd’s vocals soaring, snarling, and commanding every inch of The Club. The lighting rig blasted the stage in waves of neon fire, smoke curled around the band like a living creature, and the sound system punched with arena‑level force that felt impossible for a club room to contain.

It wasn’t just a concert — it was a full‑scale metal storm, a night where every song landed like a meteor strike and every moment reminded you why Queensr每che still owns any stage they step onto.

I walked in as a classic rock writer… I walked out a full-blown metalhead.

Gary England

Brought to you by Boyd Gaming








Friday, September 4, 2026

Classic Rock Friday Explosive Metal Saturday: Las Vegas At Full Volume This Weekend!

 This weekend on garyengland.com, the city is getting a two‑night sonic beating delivered by two of the most respected bands working today, each in a venue built to amplify their signature chaos.





Tonight: Friday at 9 PM, inside the Chrome Showroom at the Santa Fe Station, Yellow Brick Road takes over. One of the longest‑running, most beloved rock institutions locally in Las Vegas. They don’t just play classic rock; they resurrect it with arena‑grade precision, soaring vocals, and guitar work sharp enough to slice through the neon haze. The Chrome Showroom’s tight acoustics and chrome‑trimmed glow turn their set into a time‑warp back to the golden age of stadium rock, where every chorus feels like a victory lap, and every riff hits like a memory you forgot you missed!



Then tomorrow night, Saturday at 8 PM, the entire vibe detonates as Queensr每che storms into the Club Showroom inside the Cannery Casino Hotel in North Las Vegas. This is a progressive metal royalty band that built its legacy on technical firepower, operatic intensity, and dark, cinematic storytelling. Their live show is a full‑scale metal assault, engineered with surgical precision and delivered with the kind of force that makes the walls vibrate. The Club Showroom is the perfect battleground for their sound: close, loud, and designed to let every kick drum thump and every guitar line slice straight through the crowd.

Classic Rock Friday. Explosive Metal Saturday. 

One legendary local band grinding its legacy into the Local Las Vegas music scene, one show at a time, and one band whose legacy is welded into the very genre they helped create! 

* For tickets to Queensr每che, head to Ticketmaster: ticketmaster.com.

Gary England

Direct Link for Tickets

Thursday, September 3, 2026

Come Witness The Hardcore Metal Devastation Of Queensr每che This Saturday September 5th Inside The Cannery Casino Hotel in North Las Vegas

 Las Vegas metal faithful, brace yourselves — Queensr每che is storming into the Cannery Casino Hotel this Saturday, Sept. 5th (8pm show), and they’re bringing the kind of firepower that built an entire genre from the ground up!



Queensr每che didn’t just stumble into metal history; they carved their initials into it! Rising out of the early‑’80s Pacific Northwest scene, Queensr每che fused precision musicianship with dark cinematic storytelling and helped define what progressive metal could be. Four decades later, after world tours, lineup evolutions, and more than 20 million albums sold, they’re still ripping stages apart with a blast so violent that it feels like Las Vegas itself is detonating in neon‑soaked chaos, leaving the other bands stumbling through the wreckage like they never should’ve stepped into the Queensr每che firestorm!

Queensr每che hits Vegas with a lineup built to rattle the Cannery to its core. Todd La Torre fires off the classics with skyscraper‑high range and jet‑engine force, giving the band’s legacy a fierce modern edge. On guitars, Michael “Whip” Wilton and Mike Stone deliver a twin‑attack of razor‑sharp riffs and heavy, metal power that slams like a freight train. Eddie Jackson anchors it all with thunderous, melodic bass lines that hold the whole beast together, while Casey Grillo drives the show with explosive, precision drumming that fuels Queensr每che’s full‑throttle live assault.

Their show this coming Saturday is going to feel like a guided tour through the band’s entire evolution: the atmospheric epics, the riff‑driven bangers, the emotional heavy‑hitters.

You’ll get the essentials — “Silent Lucidity,” “Eyes of a Stranger,” “Jet City Woman,” plus deeper cuts and newer tracks that prove Queensr每che is still pushing forward, tearing into Vegas with a shockwave of Sin City arena chaos that hits like a neon‑charged blast and leaves everything else shaking in its wake!

*If you’re ready to get swept into the chaos, the power, and the full Queensr每che experience, lock in your spot now — tickets start at $36.10, and you can snag them through Ticketmaster.com, cannery.boydgaming.com, or grab them in person at the Cannery or any Boyd retail gift shop.

Come dive headfirst into the full metal chaos, the kind of electrifying, all‑in metal experience only Queensr每che can unleash!

Gary England

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Las Vegas Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room: Two Bands One Night Total Vegas Destruction!

 


Part two of my Saturday night (July 25th) music adventure is coming in hot. If you missed the first blast, catch part 1 here and get yourself up to speed. After soaking in two original‑music BadA$$ bands at the Artist Showcase Night at Sixx Gun Music, the night shifted gears and slammed straight into the Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room — home turf for two bands every Sin City rocker knows by heart. Saints of Las Vegas and Children of the Grave (Black Sabbath tribute) hit the stage like thunder, two fully established forces of Vegas badassery that don’t need introductions, explanations, or hype. They just show up, plug in, and level the room!

As soon as The Saints of Las Vegas hit the stage, the whole room detonated. Chaos didn’t creep in — it erupted. Amps roared wide‑open, fans surged toward the stage like a Mojave dust storm ripping through town, and the Copa Room flipped from calm to full‑tilt rock mayhem in seconds. The Saints didn’t just start their set… they unleashed it, turning the night into the kind of wild, neon‑lit frenzy only Vegas bands know how to deliver. 

They blasted the night wide open with a killer run of crowd‑pleasers — Boys of Summer, Tragedy, Man in the Box, Life In The Fast Lane, She's Got Legs, ZZ Top, How Soon Is Now, Toys in the Attic, and Ace of Spades, just to name a few. It was a rapid‑fire barrage of hits, each one landing harder than the last, turning the room into a full‑tilt rock cyclone that only Vegas bands can conjure!

The Saints are straight‑up legendary in Las Vegas — a hometown rock institution that’s been lighting up stages and blowing out amps for years. And when they hit the Copa Room, the lineup was stacked with Sin City heavy hitters, each one bringing their own brand of grit, charm, and rock‑and‑roll fire.

John Ryan Robertson — Vocals

John Ryan Robertson is the spark plug out front, firing up every crowd with rock‑star charm and razor‑sharp charisma. His comedic grit and stage swagger keep the show moving like a runaway freight train. He’s the kind of frontman who owns the room the second he steps into the lights.

Brent Muscat — Lead Guitar

Brent Muscat brings world‑tour pedigree straight from his Faster Pussycat days, delivering riffs that hit with veteran precision. His tone is unmistakable, his solos slice through the room, and his presence screams pure rock lineage. When Muscat plugs in, the night shifts into high gear.

Michael “Doc” Ellis — Guitar

Doc Ellis is a guitar hero with desert‑forged grit and a blues‑heavy attack that commands attention. His playing is raw, powerful, and dripping with veteran swagger. He’s the quiet assassin onstage — until he unleashes a riff that stops the room cold.

Keith Trombino — Bass

Keith Trombino holds down the low end with thick, punchy bass lines that shake the floorboards. He plays with a heavy, no‑nonsense grit that gives the Saints their backbone. When Keith locks in, the whole band hits harder.

Pat Caruso — Drums

Pat Caruso drives the Saints with clean, powerful, dead‑on drumming that keeps every song tight. He’s the rhythmic anchor, the heartbeat behind the chaos. Pat’s precision gives the band its unstoppable momentum.

Put these five Vegas warriors on one stage and you don’t just get a show — you get a full‑scale Sin City detonation, the kind of rock explosion that proves The Saints of Las Vegas aren’t just legendary… they’re unstoppable. When these guys lock in, the whole room feels it — the lights seem brighter, the amps seem louder, and the crowd surges like the Strip on a Saturday night. It’s that rare, combustible chemistry where every player hits with maximum force, feeding off the neon, the noise, and the madness of Vegas itself.

This isn’t just a band firing on all cylinders — it’s a rock machine built from pedigree, grit, and decades of stage warfare. When The Saints unleash, the city doesn’t just listen… it bows.

----------

Next up came the dark‑side detonator — Children Of The Grave, the Ozzy‑chanting, Sabbath‑soaked wrecking crew that storms the stage like they were summoned straight from the underworld. This band doesn’t cover Black Sabbath… they resurrect it. The moment they hit the lights, the room shifts, the air thickens, and every fan feels that familiar jolt — the one that says you’re about to get blasted with the kind of heavy, doom‑laden power that made Sabbath immortal.

Children Of The Grave plays with a ferocity that would make Ozzy grin!

Their guitar madman grinds with that unmistakable Sabbath weight — thick, dirty, and heavy enough to shake the walls — while the bass rolls through the room like a full‑force Vegas quake under the Strip. The drums don’t just keep time; they hit with bunker‑busting intensity, every strike landing like a shockwave. And the vocals? Pure dark‑theater electricity, soaring and snarling with that eerie, iconic Sabbath vibe that grabs the crowd by the spine. Children Of The Grave doesn’t imitate; they duplicate!

This crew is the real deal — a Vegas powerhouse that doesn’t just honor Black Sabbath’s legacy; they ignite it. Every crushing riff, every rumbling low‑end blast, every spine‑rattling chorus feels like a resurrection of the godfathers of heavy metal. When Children Of The Grave storms the stage, Sin City gets a loud, undeniable reminder that Sabbath’s shadow still rules the night!

Last night, Children Of The Grave tore into the room with an unmistakable, heavy‑metal battle cry — opening with Paranoid, War Pigs, Wicked World, Mr. Crowley, Children Of The Grave, and Crazy Train, among other dark‑side classics. Each song hit like a chapter out of heavy‑metal scripture, the kind of tracks that didn’t just shape rock history — they rewired it.

Paranoid is the anthem that launched a thousand metal bands, a raw, frantic blast that defined the early sound of heavy music. War Pigs remains one of the most powerful anti‑war epics ever written, its grinding riffs and battlefield‑march rhythm still shaking audiences decades later. Wicked World dives into Sabbath’s blues‑rooted darkness, a reminder of how the band fused grit and doom into something entirely new.

When they dropped Mr. Crowley, the room lit up — Ozzy’s solo-era masterpiece, dripping with mystique and Randy Rhoads’ legendary guitar wizardry. Children Of The Grave itself is pure Sabbath rebellion, a pounding, apocalyptic warning wrapped in one of the heaviest riffs of its era. And Crazy Train? That’s the eternal Ozzy rallying cry — a high‑voltage shockwave that helped define modern metal and still electrifies crowds every time it hits.

Children Of The Grave didn’t just play these songs — they unleashed them, reminding Vegas why these tracks still stand as pillars of heavy‑metal history!

Who are these musicians who bring the music back from the grave?

Mike Yoder — Vocals

Mike Yoder channels Ozzy with a precision that borders on supernatural. He’s got that eerie vibrato, that wild‑eyed stage presence, and that unmistakable Sabbath snarl that grabs the crowd by the throat. When he steps to the mic, it doesn’t feel like a tribute — it feels like Ozzy himself just walked out of the shadows.

Max Rico — Lead Guitar

Max Rico brings the Tony Iommi fire with riffs that grind like steel and solos that slice through the room with doom‑laden authority. His tone is thick, heavy, and dripping with that classic Sabbath menace. Max doesn’t imitate Iommi — he summons him, delivering guitar work that feels forged in the same molten pit!

Keith Trombino — Bass

Keith Trombino flips into full dark‑mode here, blasting bass lines that rumble like a Vegas quake under the Strip. His low end is monstrous — thick, punishing, and locked in with the exact weight Sabbath demands. When Keith digs in, the whole room shakes like the gates of hell just cracked open!

Bryan Lorenzo — Drums

Bryan Lorenzo drives the band with bunker‑busting force, pounding out Sabbath’s iconic rhythms with deadly accuracy. His drumming hits like artillery — thunderous, relentless, and perfectly synced to the band’s dark‑side energy. Bryan doesn’t just keep time; he sets the battlefield!

Put these four together and Children Of The Grave becomes a full‑scale heavy‑metal resurrection — a dark, roaring, Vegas‑born tribute that doesn’t just honor Black Sabbath… it makes them proud. When Mike Yoder, Max Rico, Keith Trombino, and Bryan Lorenzo lock in, the whole room feels that seismic shift — the kind of energy that turns a tribute set into a ritual. The riffs get heavier, the air gets darker, and the crowd gets pulled straight into that Sabbath vortex where every note feels carved from the underworld.

This lineup doesn’t just recreate the classics — they weaponize them. They bring the weight, the menace, and the raw electricity that defined the birth of heavy metal, delivering it with a modern Vegas ferocity that hits harder than ever. Children Of The Grave is the kind of band that reminds Sin City why Sabbath’s legacy still towers over the genre like a monolith of doom!

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Once again, the Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room proved why it’s one of the most beloved battlegrounds in the Las Vegas music scene. Management didn’t just book bands — they brought in the exact heavy hitters the fans crave, the kind of acts that turn a Saturday night into a full‑tilt rock riot. This venue is a gem: killer lights, chest‑thumping sound, and a bar staff that works with the speed and swagger of seasoned rock pros.

Fans love the Tuscany. Musicians love the Tuscany. And this rock writer — me — absolutely does too. It’s one of the few rooms in Vegas where every show feels like a celebration of the city’s loud, loyal, neon‑soaked music culture. The Local Las Vegas Music Scene!

Gary England

The Saints Of Las Vegas

Children Of The Grave

Tuscany Suites Casino




Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Hit Hard Play Loud: Las Vegas Dirty Ratt Band Seeking Stage‑Dominating Drummer!



 In the loud, lawless underbelly of Las Vegas, Dirty Ratt — the city’s snarling, high‑octane tribute to RATT — is tearing open the gates and looking for a drummer immediately who can bring the kind of fire that shakes music venues' walls. We’re talking a heavy‑metal vibe, pro‑level precision, reliable gear, and the kind of explosive stage presence that channels the raw, relentless energy of Ratt's Bobby Blotzer himself. If you can hammer out those metal grooves with authority, throw down backing vocals, and deliver the kind of thunder that keeps Sin City awake, you’re already in the zone. Hit the links below to see what Dirty Ratt is all about, then reach out to Chris Miggiani for more info, because if you’ve got the power, Dirty Ratt wants you behind the kit driving this beast!

Dirty Ratt on Facebook 

Dirty Ratt YouTube

Message Chris Miggiani on Facebook 

Or Email Chris at: chris.miggiani@gmail.com

Monday, July 6, 2026

This Saturday July 11th: Lee Canyon Goes Classic Rock Loud In The Afternoon — Later that Night The Metal Gods Burn It Down Inside The Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room LV

 Coming This Saturday, July 11th, 2026

This Saturday, July 11th isn’t just a date on the calendar — 

It’s a full‑throttle rock‑writer gauntlet, the kind of day that reminds me why I still drag my boots into the wild for the music that raised me.

Click on pic to enlarge



⚡ Mountain‑Top Classic Rock Mayhem

High on the mountain, in the open air where the wind carries every riff like a battle cry, Retrosonic is set to unleash a classic‑rock avalanche — 60s soul, 70s thunder, 80s fire, 90s grit. Watch the ridgeline. When these guys (and gal) plug in, rockslides aren’t a geological event; they’re a setlist consequence. This band doesn’t “play” the mountain. They make the mountain rumble, and after this weekend, Mount Charleston and the Lee Canyon Ski Resort may never be the same!

⚔ Nightfall: Heavy Metal Double‑Strike

Then the sun drops, the lights rise, and the night turns metallic.

  • High Priest is a heavy‑metal ignition squad, the ultimate Judas Priest tribute inferno — a band that doesn’t just honor the pioneers of British steel; they reignite the furnace. Coming off a recent engagement at the Whisky in Hollywood, they're ready to bring their fire back to Las Vegas! They'll hit the stage in full leather‑and‑stud armor, guitars slicing through the air, drums landing like hammer strikes, and vocals sharp enough to cut steel. It’s not imitation; it’s steel‑cutting screams and molten‑metal energy roaring back to life under the desert sky.

  • Fatal Illusions hits like a Megadeth thrash assault — a precision‑tooled, adrenaline‑charged homage to one of the Big Four of thrash metal that feels less like a tribute and more like a deployment. They channel Megadeth’s razor‑wire riffing, battlefield‑march rhythms, and that unmistakable snarling attitude with such ferocity that the air itself seems to tighten. Every down‑picked riff land like artillery, every solo slices through the night like shrapnel, and the crowd becomes part of the blast radius. This isn’t nostalgia; it’s a reenactment of the battlefield, a thrash‑metal warzone roaring back to life under the desert sky.

馃幐 Just Another Day in the Rock Trenches

So yeah — sunrise to midnight, mountain quakes to metal carnage. Just another chapter in the ongoing saga of a rock journalist’s life. Some people collect stamps. I collect decibels, bruises, and stories that smell like amplifier heat.

Someone's got to be a rock writer. And I'm glad that it's me!

Gary England

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #MusicEntertainmentSports #GaryEngland





Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Old Vegas Lives In Metal Coins Not Tickets: Where The Real Coins Still Fall In Las Vegas

 I’m chasing a little old‑Las‑Vegas nostalgia here, back when hitting a slot jackpot meant something. Not just flashing LEDs and some digital jingle, but real action: lights exploding, bells screaming, and a waterfall of cold, hard coins crashing into that metal tray like you’d just woken up the whole casino floor.



So, here’s what I want to know: which casinos in Las Vegas, if any, still have the classic machines? The ones that take a dollar bill, spin with some soul, and pay you off in actual American coins instead of a sad little paper ticket.

If there’s still a place in this town where you can hear that beautiful metallic cha-ching instead of a printer spitting out a receipt, point me in that direction!

If you’re hunting for those old‑school, coin‑dropping beauties, your best bets these days are the El Cortez, the California, and the Main Street Station downtown, the last of the true holdouts that still keep a few vintage machines alive.

The Fremont has been known to keep a couple of vintage machines alive, and The Plaza has occasionally rotated in older coin‑pay units for nostalgia seekers. But outside of downtown, the Strip is a graveyard; every major resort has gone full ticket‑in, ticket‑out. If you want the real clatter of coins hitting a metal tray, downtown is your last stand!

{My Take}

Back in the old Vegas days, those coin‑paying slots felt almost alive. The lights didn’t just blink, they welcomed you. The bells didn’t just ring, they celebrated you. And when those coins came pouring down into the metal tray, it wasn’t just a payout; it was a moment you could feel in your chest. A little burst of magic you could scoop up with both hands. Those machines gave you more than winnings; they gave you memories that still echo long after the casinos changed and the city grew up around them!

I miss those days!

Gary England

Saturday, January 3, 2026

Ikons Of Rock: The Strip’s Newest Rock Dynasty Premieres January 7th 2026 At The Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip

 Las Vegas has always been the city of spectacle, but beginning on January 7th, 2026, the Strip will roar with a new kind of energy. The Ikons of Rock residency at the Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip promises to be one of the most electrifying live tribute shows ever staged, celebrating the greatest legends of rock in a theatrical, immersive format.

The concept of Ikons of Rock isn’t just another tribute show, it’s a multi-show brand that unites productions like Snake Oil, Leathers & Lace, and 90’s Rock Circus under one banner. Each performance is a full-throttle concert experience, meticulously recreating the sound, look, and stage presence of rock’s most iconic figures. The residency is designed to deliver a different lineup every night, keeping the energy fresh and unpredictable.







The Cast of Legends

The residency boasts a rotating cast of over 50 performers, each embodying a different rock icon with uncanny precision. Notable names in the lineup include:

  • Ozzy Osbourne – The Prince of Darkness, complete with his signature stage antics.

  • Alice Cooper – Shock rock theatrics brought to life in full costume.

  • Queen – Anthemic performances capturing Freddie Mercury’s charisma.

  • KISS – Full makeup, fire-breathing, and arena-style spectacle.

  • Van Halen – Both David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar eras represented.

  • Heart – Powerful renditions of Ann and Nancy Wilson’s hits.

  • Rob Zombie – Industrial-metal energy with gothic flair.

  • Fleetwood Mac – Harmonies and mystique of Stevie Nicks and company.

  • Def Leppard – Stadium rock anthems recreated with precision.

  • Journey – Sing-along classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

  • Joan Jett – Punk-rock attitude and raw energy.

  • Pat Benatar – Vocal powerhouse with timeless hits.

  • Tom Petty – Americana rock storytelling.

  • Poison – Glam rock excess and fun.

  • Motley Cr眉e – High-octane chaos and heavy riffs.

  • Lita Ford – Guitar heroics and hard rock edge.

  • Cher – Iconic crossover star with rock flair.

  • The Eagles – Harmonies and California rock nostalgia.

This diverse lineup ensures that no two nights are the same, making the residency a repeat-worthy experience for fans.


Ticket Information

  • Venue: Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip

  • Days: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays

  • Showtime: 8:00 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 pm)

  • Age Restriction: 5+ years

  • Ticket Prices: Starting from $64–$94, with premium seating options available

  • Availability: High demand—some performances are already nearly sold out

Tickets can be purchased through all major outlets, such as Vegas.com and Box Office Tickets, offering flexible date options for visitors planning their trips. (Links Below)

Las Vegas has long been home to residencies by chart-topping acts, but Ikons of Rock offers something unique: the chance to see multiple eras and styles of rock converge on one stage. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s a living museum of rock performance, delivered with the energy of a stadium show but the intimacy of the Hard Rock Cafe venue.

{My Take}

The Ikons of Rock residency is more than a concert; it’s a celebration of the music that shaped generations. With a rotating cast of world-class tribute performers channeling the spirit of icons from Ozzy to Queen, every night is a new journey through rock history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these legends for the first time, the Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip is now the place where rock’s past and present collide in unforgettable fashion. As only the Ikons of Rock can present!


GE

Ikons of Rock

Ikons of Rock Facebook

Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas Strip

Vegas.com Tickets

Box Office Tickets

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork


  

Thursday, October 23, 2025

My Interview With Rob Hussey About The Making Of His Album: Cyanide Rally The Troops With A 21 Gun Salute Heard Around The World!

 In a year already brimming with nostalgia-fueled comebacks, Las Vegas-based hard rock band Cyanide has delivered a thunderous statement of intent with their latest album, 21 Gun Salute. Fronted by veteran vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Rob Hussey, the 12-track release is a molten cocktail of attitude, anthems, and all-star collaborations that pays homage to the band’s roots while aiming squarely at the future.

(Rob Hussey)

21 Gun Salute was a true labor of love. After a few years of delays, recording finally commenced in August 2022. So many aspects of my life blew up around me during the making of this album.

Many times it seemed as if this record would never be finished. A lot of obstacles were overcome. The finished product is a testament to hard work, courage and resilience as my world disintegrated around me.



Released on October 17, 2025 via Kivel Records, 21 Gun Salute is Cyanide’s most ambitious project to date. It’s a sonic blitzkrieg that fuses sleaze, swagger, and social commentary — all wrapped in a production sheen that doesn’t sand down the band’s raw edge.



Rob Hussey, who also co-produced the album, leads a tight core lineup featuring Greg Montoya on bass, Rob Hussey on lead vocals, Paul Courtois on drums, and LaHi Cassiano on lead guitar. Plus, a guest list for the album that will definitely turn some heads: Oz Fox, Jeff Duncan, John Zito, Keith Robert War, Erik Johnson, and Jeremy Varao make multiple appearances, adding texture and punch to the album’s layered sound!


Track Highlights

  • “Fireball” (feat. Oz Fox) kicks off the album’s high-octane streak with blistering solos and a chorus built for arenas.

  • “Back the Fk Off”** (feat. John Zito) is a snarling, riff-heavy warning shot that channels classic Sunset Strip aggression.

  • “21 Gun Salute” (feat. Keith Robert War), the title track, is a mid-tempo anthem that blends military imagery with personal defiance — a fitting centerpiece for the album’s themes of resilience and rebellion.

  • “Social Media Disease” (feat. Oz Fox) takes a scathing swipe at digital addiction, pairing biting lyrics with a groove-laden hook.

(Rob Hussey)

Songs like Back the Fuck Off, Social Media Disease, Take What You Want and As the World Burns directly address many of these obstacles. A very dark heavy vibe was added to the record and these songs from these experiences bring hints of Metallica, Priest, Maiden, Slayer and Anthrax to our sound. As with the first album, there are also much happier party vibes found in songs like Get Up and Dance, Slip N Slide and Sweet Little Trash. These songs conjure old school vibes of M枚tley Cr眉e, Ratt, Van Halen, KISS, Def Leppard and Poison that are instantly memorable and familiar.
A painful ballad about the demise of a relationship and a cover of the Climax Blues Band classic I Love You round out the 12 song set in true arena rock fashion. Thanks to Jason Constantine for keys/synth and La’Shana Smith for piano on these tracks. The album was produced by Ty Sims, who took over for departed producer Jason Constantine, and co-produced by Rob Hussey, who also played drums, bass and rhythm guitar on the album and wrote 9 of the 12 songs solo. Hussey teamed up with former guitarist Marc Mersol on 21 Gun Salute, and his late dear friend Danny Goldstein on Rock and Roll Army.

For Rob Hussey, 21 Gun Salute is more than just a record — it’s a mission statement. “This album is about standing your ground,” he’s said in recent interviews. “It’s for the misfits, the survivors, the ones who still believe in the power of a great riff and a raw lyric.”

That ethos bleeds through every track, from the satirical bite of “We Want You!” to the emotional vulnerability of “Never Let Me Go” (feat. Jeff Duncan). Even the closing ballad, “I Love You,” feels like a defiant embrace rather than a surrender.

Cyanide has long been a fixture in the Vegas rock scene, known for their explosive live shows and unapologetic attitude. With 21 Gun Salute, they’ve crafted a record that feels both timely and timeless, a love letter to hard rock’s golden age, filtered through the lens of modern chaos.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of ’80s metal or a newcomer looking for something with teeth, 21 Gun Salute delivers the goods. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it doesn’t flinch.

(Rob Hussey)

This album has something for all fans of the classic period of metal that dominated the airwaves from 1981 to 1991. A true salute to the decade of decadence. The title track 21 Gun Salute is a tribute to the troops of the USA and everything they have sacrificed for us, with a rocking AC/DC/KISS/Cr眉e vibe that will have you raising your fist in the air!

21 Gun Salute is now streaming everywhere. The album had over 150k streams in its first weekend of release October 17th. The CD is available to purchase thru Kivel Records at www.kivelrecords.com/store and also thru Eonian Records.

R.I.P. to the fond and loving memories of Ozzy Osbourne, Eddie Van Halen and Ace Frehley who we all lost during the making of this album. Their influence and legacy will never be forgotten.

Special thanks to Count’s Vamp’d, Danny and Korie Koker and the Count’s 77 family for all of their support over the years. Vamp’d will always hold a very special place in our hearts.

Thanks to everyone that helped out and contributed to the making of 21 Gun Solute!

~Rob Hussey~

{My Take}

With 21 Gun Salute, Cyanide, and Rob Hussey have fired off more than just a new album, they’ve delivered a declaration of identity, grit, and unapologetic rock 'n' roll spirit. It’s a record that doesn’t just echo the past; it reloads it for a new generation, with blistering riffs, defiant lyrics, and a lineup that feels like a who’s who of hard rock credibility. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer drawn to the fire, this album stands tall as a battle cry for those who still believe in the power of guitars, guts, and glory.

To all the members of Cyanide, all the guest artists on the album, and to Kivel Records.

This Fan and Music Journalist Salutes You!

All's well that ends well!

What's next for Rob Hussey, and for Cyanide?

Only time will tell.

GE

Check these links for more information about Cyanide, their music, and where you can catch them live. 

Cyanide Facebook

Cyanide Instagram

Cyanide Official Website

Cyanide YouTube

Cyanide On Apple Music

Cyanide On Spotify 

Cyanide 21 Gun Salute On Kivel Records

#Cyanide #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #USAT #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #RobHussey #21GunSalute #KivelRecords #MusicEntertainmentSports #GaryEngland

Sunday, September 7, 2025

Weekend Warriors of Rock: Inside Blue String Theory’s Journey Of Performance And Commitment

 Las Vegas is a city built on sound and spectacle, and few bands embody that spirit as well as Blue String Theory. More than just another tribute act, this group of seasoned musicians has carved out a name for themselves by delivering the music fans love with authenticity, energy, and a clear respect for the rock legends they pay homage to.


(Click On Pic To Enlarge)

The band’s lineup is a showcase of top-level talent: Brian Pollack commands the stage with his powerhouse vocals that soar well above the mix, Kevin Woodall delivers precision and fire on guitar, Lonnie NaVeau locks down the groove on bass, Scott Mayhood brings depth and atmosphere on the keys, and James Sloan drives it all home with his steady, hard-hitting drum beats that are the engine behind this amazing band known as BST. Together, they form a tight unit that captures the magic of classic rock while putting their own stamp of approval on each and every performance.

What truly sets Blue String Theory apart isn’t just their skill, but their story. While the rest of the band calls Las Vegas home, frontman Brian Pollack has made a remarkable commitment to himself and to his fans. He flies in from Texas every weekend the band performs. That kind of dedication is rare in any industry, but especially in live music, where schedules are demanding and travel is relentless. For your commitment, I salute you, Brian!

Brian’s weekly trips are more than logistics; they’re a reflection of his passion. “It’s all for the love of the music,” and that love shows in every song he sings. His presence transforms Blue String Theory’s shows into more than performances; they become celebrations of music that has defined generations over the years!

Audiences in Las Vegas have high expectations, after all, this is the Entertainment Capital of the World. Blue String Theory rises to that challenge with every set. The band doesn’t just cover the classics; they recreate the energy, attitude, and excitement of an era when rock and roll ruled the airwaves.

Their shows aren’t just concerts; they’re experiences. Fans leave with smiles, memories, and that feeling of being transported back to the soundtrack of their lives. Whether it’s a hard-driving anthem or a soulful ballad, Blue String Theory makes each song feel alive and relevant today.

In Las Vegas, tribute bands are plentiful, but Blue String Theory offers something deeper. Their authenticity comes not only from their talent, but from their personal investment in what they do. 

Brian Pollack’s weekly flight from Texas is the perfect symbol of that commitment, proof that for these musicians, the stage is where they truly belong!

{My Take}

To me, Blue String Theory isn’t just another tribute band in Las Vegas. They’re a living example of what passion, talent, and dedication look like when it all comes together on stage. 

From Brian Pollack flying in from Texas each weekend to join his bandmates to the seamless blend of Kevin Woodall’s guitar, Lonnie NaVeau’s bass, Scott Mayhood’s keys, and James Sloan’s drums, this group proves that the love of music can transcend distance, schedules, and the everyday grind. 

For their audiences in Las Vegas, that means one thing: every performance is delivered with heart and soul, power, and the kind of energy that keeps fans coming back for more!

GE - Gary England

Blue String Theory Official Website

Blue String Theory Facebook

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldWideEntertainmentNetwork

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Double Your Pleasure Double Your Music And Fun: Fremont Country Club Backstage Bar And Billiards

 Located at 601 E. Fremont Street, just one block off the Fremont Street Experience, are two sister venues that helped jump-start the Fremont East Entertainment District: The Fremont Country Club and the Backstage Bar & Billiards. Not only are they two of the coolest places to hang out for music and for entertainment, but they're also part of Las Vegas (music) history that's helped make Las Vegas, The Entertainment Capital Of The World!



Talking about Las Vegas' history 

The two sister venues occupy the old downtown Sears building (1942 - 1948).

Backstage Bar & Billiards opened on November 16, 2012, with the larger concert hall slated to open right behind it.

Fremont Country Club followed, opening its doors in early 2013.

 From the start, the two venues booked live music several nights a week and became anchors for late-night club shows and special under-the-radar events. 

(In October 2023, Green Day warmed up there ahead of the When We Were Young festival.) 

The calendar skews rock-forward, punk, hardcore, metal, alt-rock, and emo, while still hosting blues-rock, indie, hip-hop, comedy, and one-off special events. 

Both the Fremont Country Club and Backstage Bar & Billiards are the creations of Vegas nightlife ambassadors Carlos “Big Daddy” Adley and Ava Berman, who led the wave and are credited with much of the popularity of the Fremont East Entertainment district.

Many local fans call Carlos "Big Daddy" Adley and Ava Berman, perfect ambassadors for The Las Vegas Music scene. I call them visionaries of the future of music for The Entertainment Capital Of The World!

Free-standing venues (not inside casinos) where bands can play loud, late, and up close are exactly why major touring artists and fans alike love these two venues.

Beyond concerts, the rooms host comedy, DJ nights, and special events, giving local and touring acts alike a proper stage in downtown Las Vegas. 

{My Take}

From its rich history to its eclectic mix of music genres and the vision of its passionate owners, Fremont Country Club and Backstage Bar & Billiards have cemented their place as cornerstones of Las Vegas’ downtown revival. More than just venues, they serve as gathering spots where creativity thrives, diverse sounds collide, and both local and touring artists find a stage that truly celebrates live music culture. With their dedication to keeping the spirit of Fremont alive, Carlos “Big Daddy” Adley and Ava Berman have built not just bars, but landmarks that continue to shape the city’s ever-evolving music scene! 

To Big Daddy and Ava

Thank you for keeping music alive in our fair city, you're both Rock Stars in my book!

GE - Gary England


Fremont Country Club Facebook

Backstage Bar & Billiards Facebook


Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Classic Rock Thunder: Chevy Metal And The Far Worst Hit The Bootlegger Copa Room Sept. 5

 

Event Tickets

Las Vegas is no stranger to epic nights of live music, but Friday, September 5th inside the Bootlegger Copa Room promises to be a throwback rock 'n' roll blowout for the books. Two killer bands – Chevy Metal and The Far Worst are teaming up for a night that’s equal parts gritty, groovy, and gloriously loud!

Chevy Metal, the high-octane side project founded by Foo Fighters’ drummer Taylor Hawkins, continues to carry the torch with their raw, unfiltered love for classic rock. Known for ripping through hits from Black Sabbath, Van Halen, Queen, and more, Chevy Metal doesn’t just play covers, they breathe new life into them with unmatched energy and soul. Expect big riffs, big vocals, and the kind of showmanship that makes you feel like you're front row center at a 1978 arena tour!

Opening the night is local favorite The Far Worst, a band that brings a modern punk spirit to old-school rock 'n' roll swagger. With their tight musicianship and don't-give-a-damn attitude, they’re quickly becoming one of the most talked-about bands in the Las Vegas music scene. They’ll get the night rolling with infectious hooks and a stage presence that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go.

The Bootlegger Copa Room, known for its classy vintage vibe and top-tier acoustics, sets the perfect backdrop for this collision of raw rock power and local talent. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Hawkins' legacy, a fan for guitar-driven nostalgia, or just looking for a night of pure, loud fun, this is where you definitely need to be!

GE - Gary England

Event Page

To Purchase Tickets

MOTORMOUTH Promotions - Vamp'd Beyond

Friday, August 1, 2025

Plugged In: Las Vegas Bands Bringing The Heat This Weekend To Sin City And Beyond

Las Vegas is turning up the volume this weekend as a fresh wave of talent hits the stage across the city. From gritty rock riffs to smooth blues grooves, local and touring bands are ready to deliver unforgettable performances in venues big and small. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a night out with live music and good vibes, this weekend’s lineup promises something for everyone. Here's a look at the bands bringing the heat to the Las Vegas music scene.


Friday August 1st


The Hit Squad




Saturday August 2nd


Event
Link & Tickets



West Coast Travelers


Event Link


Event Link


Blue String Theory



Sunday August 3rd


Event Link


Double Banger (2 Nights)

Friday August 1st & Saturday August 2nd

Friction



No matter where you end up this weekend, Las Vegas (Henderson & Goodsprings) is packed with the kind of live music that reminds us why this city never sleeps. From dive bars to iconic stages, these bands are keeping the energy high and the crowds on their feet. So, grab some friends, support our local talent, and make some noise, because in Las Vegas, the weekend isn’t complete without a soundtrack etched in your mind and a deep impression on your memory!


GE