RIP..... Nightvision's bassist Dean Hocking in fatal car accident

Today I shall be the bearer of bad news.   Nightvision's bassist, Dean Hocking, was killed late last Thursday night in a car accident.  Nightvision may not be the world's best band, but 23 is far to young to go, and news like this always sucks.

According to the Sleaford Standard, Dean Hocking, bassist for U.K. heavy rockers Nightvision, was killed in a car crash early Thursday morning (December 27) in Sleaford, England. The 23-year-old musician and an as-yet-unnamed 37-year-old fellow passenger were both pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident happened at around 2:50 a.m. when a Vauxhall Astra left the road. No other vehicles are thought to have been involved and a 27-year-old local woman has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. She is currently helping police with their enquiries.

Formed in 2003, NIGHTVISION's definitive lineup took shape three years later when singer Dave McKee joined the group. Since that time, NIGHTVISION has primarily released music and toured in the U.K. Their sophomore album, "Consequence Of Sin", was released in 2011 and the band spent most of 2012 playing shows in support of it.

In a joint statement on Facebook on Thursday night, the remaining band members said: "There is nothing we can say that hasn't been said already other than to confirm the devastating and crushing loss of our incredible bass player Dean Hocking — tragically taken from us as a passenger in a road accident during the early hours.

"Needless to say, he was an incredible bass player — one of the best — and an incredible bloke.  We obviously need the time to get this round our heads but in the meantime.....wherever you are... get a drink and raise it high as a toast to a fine, young, talented guy gone too soon. (I don't want to jump to conclusions, but I TRULY hope alcohol was not involved in this accident... otherwise, this statement will definitely be one these guys regret.)  "Turn it up to 11 and rumble the heavens, our brother. We love you, dude, and we are gonna miss you like you'll never know."

Mike Scaccia Memorial Service Announced

It was just a few short days ago I had to report the unfortunate news of Mike Scaccia's sudden death on the 22nd.   Fans are all invited to pay their respect to the late Ministry/Revolting Cocks/Rigor Mortis guitarist at his official memorial service, being held this Sunday, December 30 at 3:00 p.m. at Aristide Event Center in Mansfield, Texas. Again, the event is open to the public, so friends, family and fans are all welcome.

The details-
Aristide Event Center
570 North Walnut Creek Drive
Mansfield, TX 76063

Scaccia died this past Saturday night (December 22) while performing with his current band, Rigor Mortis at The Rail Club in Fort Worth, Texas.

Some more details on the tragic event has been released and it is now official that the cause of death was a sudden heart attack brought on by a heart disease. According to the Tarrant County medical examiner's office the official report states 'atherosclerotic and hypertensive heart disease' as the culprit. Officials ruled it a natural death. He was 47 years old. No drugs involved here, folks. Just a solid guy who was robbed the privilege of growing old.

According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, police responded to a call from the club at 11:45 p.m. Saturday, and Sciacca was pronounced dead at 12:26 a.m. in the emergency room at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth.

His daughter Sarah posted a message on his Facebook page at 3 a.m. Dallas time on Sunday, saying, "I love you so much dad. I love you so much." Mike had two toddlers - Sarah and Taarna Scaccia Hopkins

Mike is survived by his wife Jenny Rowen Scaccia, with whom he has two toddlers, and daughters Sarah Scaccia and Taarna Scaccia Hopkins.

Ministry/Rigor Mortis Guitar, RIP

Man, I hate posting updates like this.  In fact I'd even rather post about the brilliance of bands like Attack Attack or how real Bret Micheal's wig looks than do another RIP post.  But alas, I must take a moment to say RIP to Ministry and Rigor Mortis guitarist Mike Scaccia who died after collapsing onstage during a performance.  The news is still very fresh, as the show was only last night (Dec. 22).  I am sure more details will be released, but as for now not too much is known as the cause.   I can't imagine seeing a musician collapse on stay like that.  I send my best to those around him.

The only details as of now are that the musician was performing with thrashers, Rigor Mortis, at the Rail Club in Fort Worth, Texas, when he suddenly fell to the ground from a seizure.  Classic Rock magazine reports "that one of the band’s members returned to the address the crowd, stating only, 'It doesn’t look good.' Scaccia was rushed to the hospital, but passed away soon after."   That's horrible, I can't imagine what everyone was thinking.

And it gets worse- the band's singer, Bruce Corbitt, had scheduled this specific show to celebrate his 50th birthday.  Obviously he was very close with Scaccia, and he posted the following on his Facebook:

“My brother is gone! The only reason I am who I am is because of this man. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t even be in a band. RIP Mike — the greatest guitar player I ever knew. I’m proud to say that I was always Mike Scaccia’s biggest fan, and always will be.”

This is such sad news right before Christmas (and any time for that matter).  I won't lie and act like I even knew this guys name before hearing this awful news, but I do of course know Ministry and Rigor Mortis, and have been to a enough shows to know this is NOT what is supposed to happen.  Scaccia helped form Rigor Mortis in 1983 and by 1988, had the band signed to Capitol Records with their self-titled debut being released shortly after.  Scaccia's time in Ministry can be heard on the band's ‘Psalm 69′ (1992) and ’Filth Pig’ (1996) albums.   RIP, Mike.

In remembrance of HIDE

Whether you know him as 'HIDE' (his X Japan years), 'hide' (his solo years), or don't know him at all- today seems like the right day to remember this Japanese guitar playin' and songwriting genius.  Born 49 years ago today, Hide only made it to 33 after committing suicide post a night out drinking.  But Hide shouldn't be remembered for the booze/drugs - although he certainly had his issues - just watch the live footage below and you will see how truly awesome this guy was.  Incredible stage performance.   Hell, I can't even understand a word he's saying (minus the small bits of English), and I can tell the lyrics are brilliant.  And that's why I have no choice but to make him this weeks Band Of The Week.
  

Hide is most closely associated with his 10 year career as lead guitarist in X Japan, but his fame went much greater.  His solo career was massive, and his following was beyond cult-like.  The video below shows him with X (amazing solo/guitar-work here).  Don't miss Yoshiki kickin' ass behind the kit, too.

RIP, HIDE.

In Memoriam

South African music festival Witchfest in 2008 was one of the first festival reviews I did when None More Blakk started up.  Carcass was the headliner, but one of the bands that really stood out to me was South Africa's very own Warthane.  I got to know the guys in the band at the festival since the friend I was staying with was good friends with them.   It turned out not only were Warthane great thrashers and a black metal force up on stage, but they were just a fun group of guys to hang out with.  

Recently I got some bad news that the guitarist of Warthane, Nazar Berezovsky, was killed in a car accident late on Oct 8th.  I don't know the details of the accident, but I can say that some of the roads in SA were completely unpaved and I could see how it would cause accidents.  It's such sad news, I don't really know what to say.  My thoughts are with my friend Simon who introduced me to the band, Nazar's family, and of course to Warthane who had so much potential and were really starting to make a splash.  I hope for Nazar's sake those guys continue to make great music.  RIP, buddy.

24 years ago today

RIP to the incredible Cliff Burton.

Some thoughts on Paul Gray

It's too soon to be doing another post like this, but here we go.  Some metal folk are reaching out to Paul Gray (bassist of Slipknot who recently passed away) and his family/friends to spread some nice words.  Here's what a few of them have to say.
Slipknot:
 

Ripper Owens:

I would like to send my condolences to [Gray's] family. I played three or four times on stage with Paul and crossed paths a few other times throughout the years. He was always a great guy to be around and a great talent! I was looking forward to doing this HAIL! run with Paul on bass. Once again, let's pray for his family and keep them in our thoughts in their time of need.

Sharon:

It's so sad that we've lost yet another young wonderful musician, Paul Gray, #2 of Slipknot. My love goes out to his family, fans and friends."

Bill Ward:

My wife and I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Paul Gray's family and friends. Our condolences also extend to each member of SLIPKNOT. We wish everyone who knew Paul love, tolerance and eventual peace of mind. Paul played in an incredible band. He was an incredible bass player. His death is another big loss for metal music, but his spirit and his love will forever ascend and teach. Thanks for the music, Paul.

Scott Ian:

Paul Gray was always super-fun to be around. He was always smiling and he was always all about the music. He and I were the main rhythm player and bass player for that band. I got to spend a lot of time with him just jamming, which is what we both loved to do. We'd just get such a kick out of learning riffs. It was always all about the music. He just seemed like he was really that dude who just loved to play his instrument. I'm really gonna miss him.

Another RIP

Sad to announce another loss to the metal community, and this one effects arguably the most popular of today's group of modern metal bands- Slipknot.  Just confirmed was the death of their 38 year old bassist, Paul Grey (also known as #2 or 'The Pig'), who was found dead in his hotel room.  Paul just joined the supergroup Hail replacing Dave Ellefson on bass, and featuring Mike Portnoy and Ripper Owens.  Paul had a history of drug and alcohol abuse, so all fingers point to that as cause of death.  I remember eating BBQ food with Slipknot after Mayhem Fest last summer and he was WASTED, but also all smiles with everyone.  This is sad news to all involved.  Paul was expecting a baby soon..... RIP

Some thoughts on Dio

No one seems to be unaffected by the death of possibly the best voice in all metal- Ronnie James Dio.  I could go on and on about what a great guy he was or about his amazing talent, but really this is nothing that wasn't wildly obvious.  Here are some thoughts from those who were close to him.
Tony Iommi:

My Dear Friend Ronnie, Yesterday 16th May my dear, dear friend Ronnie James Dio passed away at 7.45am LA time. I’ve been in total shock I just can’t believe he’s gone. Ronnie was one of the nicest people you could ever meet, we had some fantastic times together. Ronnie loved what he did, making music and performing on stage. He loved his fans so much. He was a kind man and would put himself out to help others. I can honestly say it’s truly been an honor to play at his side for all these years, his music will live on forever. Our thoughts are with Wendy Dio who stood by Ronnie until the end, he loved her very much. The man with the magic voice is a star amongst stars, a true professional. I’ll miss you so much my dear friend. RIP - Tony

Geezer Butler : 

GOODBYE MY DEAR FRIEND.

Wendy Dio:

Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever.

Lars Ulrich: 

Dear Ronnie,

I just got off stage in Zagreb. I was met with the news that you've passed on. I'm kind of in shock, but I wanted you to know that you were one of the main reasons I made it onto that stage to begin with.

When I first saw you in Elf, opening for Deep Purple in 1975, I was completely blown away by the power in your voice, your presence on stage, your confidence, and the ease with which you seemed to connect to 6,000 Danish people and one starry-eyed 11-year-old, most of whom were not familiar with Elf's music. The following year, I was so psyched when I heard the results of you joining forces with my favorite guitar player. You guys sounded so right for each other and I instantly became Rainbow's #1 fan in Denmark.

In the fall of 1976, when you played your first show in Copenhagen, I was literally in the front row and the couple of times we made eye contact you made me feel like the most important person in the world. The news that you guys were staying in town on your day off somehow embedded itself in my brain and I made the pilgrimage to the Plaza Hotel to see if I could somehow grab a picture, an autograph, a moment, anything.  A few hours later you came out and were so kind and caring... pictures, autographs and a couple minutes of casual banter. I was on top of the world, inspired and ready for anything.  Rainbow came to Copenhagen a couple more times over the next few years and each time you guys blew my mind, and for a good three years were my absolute favorite band on this planet.

Over the years I've been fortunate enough to run into you a half dozen times or so and each time you were as kind, caring and gracious as you were in 1976 outside the hotel.

When we finally got a chance to play together in Austria in 2007, even though I may not have let on, I was literally transformed back to that little snot-nosed kid who you met and inspired 31 years earlier and it was such a fucking honor and a dream come true to share a stage with you and the rest of the legends in Heaven & Hell.  

A couple of weeks ago when I heard that you were not going to be able to make it to the Sonisphere shows that we would be sharing this June, I wanted to call you and let you know that I was thinking of you and wish you well, but I kind of pussied out, thinking the last thing you needed in your recovery was feeling obligated to take a phone call from a Danish drummer/fan boy. I wish I'd made that call.  

We will miss you immensely on the dates, and we will be thinking of you with great admiration and affection during that run. It seemed so right to have you out on tour with the so-called 'Big Four' since you obviously were one of the main reasons that the four bands even exist.  

Your ears will definitely be burning during those two weeks because all of us will be talking, reminiscing and sharing stories about how knowing you has made our lives that much better.

Ronnie, your voice impacted and empowered me, your music inspired and influenced me, and your kindness touched and moved me.  Thank you.  Much love.

Brian May: 

It's a shock to hear that Ronnie has gone. Even though we had all known he was battling with cancer for some time, he was such a wiry fighter, and of such an amazingly optimistic nature, I think I assumed he would go on forever.  

Well, he fought to the very end... was gearing up to go back out on tour.  I know this will be a very hard blow for my friend Tony Iommi.  When I last saw Ronnie in Los Angeles, he was as full of life and positivity as anybody I've ever known .. and sang up a storm with Heaven & Hell in the Universal Amphitheatre.  In my opinion, Ronnie was one of the creators of the genre of heavy metal.  I'm not an expert on his work — there are many people much more knowledgeable than me... but our paths crossed many times over the years, and I had clear glimpses of his unique spirit and personality. He was in many ways the antithesis of the current mould of TV-bred singers.  He had no apparent desire for fame, in the sense that so many 'X-Factor' contestants seem to.  He was not a TV face, a 'celebrity.'  He just loved doing what he did.  So, to his millions of fans, there was an unquestionable feeling of reality to his persona, his songwriting, and his performances.  His lyric-writing was very distinctive, and set a style in heavy metal which has influenced many bands over the years.  To me, it was as if his mind operated in layers — on the surface, a hard-working honest singer, with a great humanity and strong sense of humour — and underneath, in the world of his songs, his subconscious seemed to be populated by hobgoblins of all kinds, and palpable evil forever on the march.  His lyrics, dark and mysterious, in tune with the metal ethos, always represented the sword of goodness in triumph over evil.

I don't know if he invented the devil-horn salute [On a sidenote- yes, he did!], but he was certainly the man who, more than ever, made it a universal symbol, a worldwide salute of metal.  He was universally loved in the community of rock music, and will be sorely missed.

Ripper Owens: 

A sad day, just a very sad day!!!  We have lost a great human being and the best singer of rock in the world.  Ronnie was my hero and my friend, I will miss him and his kind words. He taught me so much on stage and off stage.  I also would like so say that my heart is heavy for Wendy Dio [Ronnie's wife], and we should all keep her in our thoughts and prayers.  I do not think of Wendy without Ronnie and I don't think of Ronnie without Wendy.  We all love you, Wendy... and we all will miss you, Ronnie, and we love you for everything you have given us!

Richie Blackmore: 

Ronnie had a unique and wonderful voice. He will be sadly missed in the rock and roll world.

Judas Priest: 

We are filled with great sadness at the terrible news about our friend Ronnie James Dio.  Our condolences and love go to Wendy [Dio, Ronnie's wife/manager] and Ronnie's family.  Ronnie was a wonderful man and will be sorely missed.

DIO

Its such horribly sad news that Dio has passed away.  I dont even know what to say.  I am so sad. RIP.

RIP Hide

Wow, it's already been 12 years since Hide of X Japan fame died after hanging himself in his apartment in Toyko.  This guy was MASSIVE in Japan, and shortly after  his death there were 3 copy cat suicides.  Really sad stuff.  

Sad day in metal

I'm so sad about this news.  It was apparently from heart failure.  RIP, Pete Steele. He was only 48!  Those days of drunken antics at the old Duffs will be missed.   

RIP, Little buddy

Sadly today marks the anniversery of Randy Rhoads death.  RIP.  He was a year younger than me when he died- just  25 years old!  Looking back at all he accomplished makes me wonder what else he would have done if he was still around today.  It also gives me a kick in the ass to work harder.  fuck!

PS. He died before I was born, so there is technically a change I was him in a past life.

The Day The Music Died

Not exactly metal, or even rock, but 51 years ago was the big plane crash that killed the Big Bopper, Buddy Holly, and Richie Valens.
In other completely un-related news, here's a video of Alice Cooper from right before the Grammys:

RIP to Avenged Sevenfold's drummer, The Rev

Sad news today.  Avenged Sevenfold's drummer, The Rev, was found dead in his apartment.  This guy was a solid and unique drummer, although I think he was overlooked a lot since Avenged is so well noted for their guitarists.  When Avenged Sevenfold first came out I was so impressed by their Iron Maiden guitars mixed so well with modern elements of metal.  I thought they could be the band to bring back that dueling metal guitar sound to the kiddies.  


The Rev was a HUGE party boy.  Sad to see him go.

RIP Chuck

8 years ago today Chuck Schuldiner, the man behind Death, lost his battle with cancer  D:

A moment for Dime

.......5 years ago today.......

Also RIP to Razzle (Hanoi Rocks) and John Lennon (that guy from The Beatles).

Frank Zappa RIP

Frank Zappa died 16 years ago today. Yes, he was smart, but his muzak is annoying to me.  It actually sounds like he is trying to create unlistenable noise.  But then again I am a Darkthone fan, so take my opinion for what you will.  Love him or hate him, he sas progressive before that trendy (is progressive ever trendy?) and a major musical icon. RIP

Eric Carr, RIP

I can't believe it's been 18 years since KISS's very own Eric Carr died.  Yes, he was a replacement player in KISS, but like Vinnie Vincent he had some great albums with them and also had his own character.  Eric replaced Peter on drums, but didnt just take Pauls Cat makeup- he created the fox (Vinnie created the Ankh Warrior).  Sad that he had to go.

Some followup on Evile's Mike Alexander

A month ago I was sad to announce the death of Evile's bassist, Mike Alexander.  The tests have come back and it turns out that what he died of was a pulmonary embolism, a blockage of an artery in the lung.  Really sad, and unpredictable when something like that happens.  Below is an audio interview with the rest of the band, the first time they have spoken about Mike's death publicly.  




Evile also plans to play two shows in the UK as a memorial to Mike.  All the profits will go to Mike's family (he was a father).  A bunch of bands including Hirax, Exodus, and Overkill have donated gifts that will be raffled out at the shows in support of Mike.
Dec. 07 - Leeds, UK - Rio's
Dec. 08 - London, UK - Underworld