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Jim Dyson, Getty Images / Michael N. Todaro, Getty Images / Mary Ouellette, SheWillShootYou.com The year 2012 turned out to be a strong one for rock albums. We saw the highly anticipated return of '90s favorites Soundgarden , the continued brilliance of acts like Deftones and Stone Sour , the emergence of females in hard rock courtesy of Halestorm and Dead Sara , among others, to go along with memorable releases from a number of other rock acts. Unfortunately, all of our favorite albums couldn't make this list, but after much debate among our entire staff, we've come up with our official picks for the best rock albums of the year. If metal is more your speed, don't worry, we've got a separate list for you headbangers. But for now, strap in and turn it up, as we count down the 10 Best Rock Albums of 2012: ? 10 'Dark Adrenaline' Lacuna Coil ? ? Lacuna Coil's 'Dark Adrenaline' album, released early on in 2012, finds the band rediscovering their gothic roots while expanding their sound in the process. 'Trip the Darkness' was a dark sounding gem off the record, and the song got an extra boost when a remix by Dillinger Escape Plan 's Ben Weinman appeared on the 'Underworld: Awakening' soundtrack. 'Fire' showed off a more radio-friendly side, while 'End of Time' served as the band's late year ballad. The disc also included an interesting cover of R.E.M.'s 'Losing My Religion.' Listen to 'Trip the Darkness' ? ? 9 'King Animal' Soundgarden ? ? The promise of Soundgarden's 2009 reunion was finally realized in 2012, as the band released their 'King Animal' album in November. The grunge goliath's first new album since 1996 proves that Soundgarden are still on top of their game. 'Been Away Too Long' became a major hit at radio, while tracks like 'Non-State Actor' and 'Worse Dreams' generated plenty of buzz in advance of the album. Chris Cornell 's voice is as strong as ever, and the full band feels as though they haven't lost a step. Welcome back, Soundgarden, and kudos for delivering one of the 10 best rock albums of 2012. Listen to 'Been Away Too Long' ? ? 8 'Amarylllis' Shinedown ? ? Shinedown had a tough task in matching the success of 2008's 'The Sound of Madness,' but they succeeded in cranking out another hits-filled collection with 'Amaryllis,' certainly showing that there is no slowing down this juggernaut. Both 'Bully' and 'Unity' took the band back to the top of the charts. And the group got great mileage out of 'Enemies' and 'I'll Follow You,' making for a very successful 2012. Look for the output to continue, with the single 'Miracle' lined up to hit radio in early 2013. Listen to 'Bully' ? ? 7 'Born Villain' Marilyn Manson ? ? For longtime fans of Marilyn Manson, 'Born Villain' provided a much welcome creative resurgence. The lead single 'No Reflection' was just the sort of gritty-meets-groovy rocker that the singer built his career upon, and 'Slo-Mo-Tion' and 'Overneath the Path of Mystery' show the true depth of the record. In addition, Manson got some notice for including the bonus cover of 'You're So Vain' with his longtime pal Johnny Depp. Listen to 'No Reflection' ? ? 6 'Harakiri' Serj Tankian ? ? The man of many musical inspirations, System of a Down singer Serj Tankian found his latest solo disc embracing rock, punk and new wave, among other genres. 'Harakiri' earns its spot as one of the 10 best rock albums of 2012 by delivering socially-minded statements through infectious songs. 'Figure It Out' is an in-your-face track that pulls no punches, while 'Cornucopia' showcases Tankian's versatile talents as a musician. But the standout cut just might be the title track, which features a chorus as catchy as any in System of a Down's catalog. Listen to 'Figure It Out' ? ? 5 'The Strange Case of …' Halestorm ? ? Halestorm went from being the “next big rock band” to fulfilling that prophecy with 'The Strange Case Of…' The group rocketed up the charts in early 2012 with the single 'Love Bites … So Do I' and the attitude that Lzzy Hale provided set the tone for the rest of the disc. They enjoyed crossover pop success with 'Here's to Us,' but once again embraced their hard-rock fans with the scorching track 'I Miss the Misery,' which shows off Hale at her belting best. Listen to 'Love Bites (So Do I)' ? ? 4 'Yellow & Green' Baroness ? ? Baroness may not get as much attention as some of the bigger names on this list, but the band delivered one of the best front-to-back efforts of 2012. The two-disc collection 'Yellow & Green' features such standout tracks as 'March to the Sea,' 'Take My Bones Away' and 'Board Up the House.' Unfortunately, the band wasn't able to support the album as much as they has planned, as a terrifying bus crash led to major injuries and kept Baroness off the road for much of the year. Listen to 'Take My Bones Away' ? ? 3 'Dead Sara' Dead Sara ? ? Looking for the next big rock band? It's worth a look at Dead Sara and their self-titled breakout album. The group garnered notice for their single 'Weatherman,' which features Emily Armstrong's powerhouse vocals and some terrific guitar work from Siouxsie Medley, but the disc as a whole is great. Second single 'We Are What You Say' is another notable track, while songs like the chilling ballads 'Dear Love' and 'Sorry for It All' should deserve a longer look in 2013. Listen to 'Weatherman' ? ? 2 'House of Gold & Bones, Pt. 1' Stone Sour ? ? You can't have a Best Rock Albums of 2012 list without Stone Sour's ambitious record 'House of Gold & Bones, Part 1.' Singer Corey Taylor got things rolling with the double-single 'Gone Sovereign' and 'Absolute Zero,' both of which set a hard-driving tone for the disc. Meanwhile, 'Taciturn' shows that the band can hit hard even when not rocking out at 11, providing one of the more moving songs on the record. We have no doubt that 'House of Gold & Bones,' with the second half of the double album coming next year, will play a major role in 2013. Listen to 'Gone Sovereign' ? ? 1 'Koi No Yokan' Deftones ? ? Deftones have found their creative rebound in recent years, and they're making sure to pounce while it's going good. Fresh off the critically acclaimed 'Diamond Eyes' album, the band continues to rock at the top of their game. 'Koi No Yokan' hits on all cylinders with cuts like the single 'Tempest,' and standout tracks 'Leathers,' 'Poltergeist' and 'Rosemary.' With the disc just arriving in mid-November, it looks as though Deftones will have plenty to celebrate over the next year – starting with being named Loudwire's Best Rock Album of 2012. Listen to 'Tempest' ? ? What's Your Favorite Rock Album of 2012? There you have it — the 10 Best Rock Albums of 2012 — at least in our opinion. But that's why we have a comments section. You can let us know if we hit it right on the head, if there's any glaring omissions, or if there's an album you think has no right even making the cut. Let us know what you think in the comments section below. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/best-metal-albums-of-2012/” title=”Next: 10 Best Metal Albums of 2012″ align=”center”] ?
Theo Wargo, Getty Images As if he didn’t already have enough to do, Dave Grohl has picked up another new gig: Host for satellite radio provider SiriusXM, where the Foo Fighters frontman will be behind the mic for a limited-run series titled ‘Dave Grohl Presents Sound City.’ As astute readers have probably already guessed, Grohl’s show will tie in with his upcoming ‘Sound City’ documentary , which takes a loving look back at some of the many classic songs and albums recorded at the legendary studio of the same name. If you think devoting a film and radio show to a defunct old studio seems a little excessive, never fear: Grohl has plenty of material to work from, as Sound City played host to a long list of acts that included Fleetwood Mac , Metallica , and Tom Petty (not to mention Nirvana ) before closing its doors. “I’m so proud of the Sound City film and beyond excited for the world to see what I’ve been working on for the past year,” Grohl said in a statement announcing the show. “Even before that, though, I’m grateful to SiriusXM for giving me the opportunity to share all this great music and to let people know what got me excited about Sound City in the first place.” ‘Dave Grohl Presents Sound City’ is scheduled to debut this Thursday (Nov. 29) at 4pm ET on Classic Vinyl, channel 26, with subsequent shows airing on different channels. See the full schedule below: Thursday, November 29 at 4:00 pm ET on Classic Vinyl, channel 26: 1970-1975 (Neil Young, Spirit, Dr. John, Buckingham/Nicks, Elton John, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Nils Lofgren, Fleetwood Mac) Thursday, December 6 at 4:00 pm ET on Classic Rewind, channel 25: 1975-1978 (War, Fleetwood Mac, Grateful Dead, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Cheap Trick) Thursday, December 13 at 4:00 pm ET on Classic Rewind, channel 25: 1979-1982 (Tom Petty, Rick Springfield, Santana, Tom Petty, Pat Benatar, Fear, Barry Manilow) Thursday, December 20 at 4:00 pm ET on Hair Nation, channel 39: 1983-1985 (Dio, Rick Springfield, Saxon, Ratt, Loudness, Tom Petty, Y&T) Thursday, December 27 at 4:00 pm ET on Lithium, channel 34: 1991-1993 (Nirvana, Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Rage Against The Machine, Rancid) Thursday, January 3 at 4:00 pm ET on Octane, channel 37: 1993-1996 (Kyuss, Slayer, Danzig, Tom Petty, Jayhawks, Black Crowes, Johnny Cash) Thursday, January 10 at 4:00 pm ET on Lithium, channel 34: 1998-2007 (Queens Of The Stone Age, Jimmy Eat World, Frank Black And The Catholics, Terror, Nine Inch Nails) Thursday, January 17 at 4:00 pm ET: 2008-2011 (Mavis Staples, Jenny Lewis, Metallica, Eagles Of Death Metal, Isis, Arctic Monkeys, Mastodon) Thursday, January 24 at 4:00 pm ET: A discussion of the making of Sound City with Dave Grohl ?
Carlos Alvarez, Getty Images Who better to play out the trials and tribulations of an R&B legend on the big screen than another musician, right? At least that’s what the creators of the upcoming biopic on Marvin Gaye seemed to have in mind when they cast rocker Lenny Kravitz for the iconic part. Over the past few years Kravitz has quietly added ‘actor’ to his repertoire of artistic skills. Although this will serve as his first leading role, Kravitz does have some acting experience under his belt. In the past few years he’s played parts in movies like ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Precious’ and has a handful of additional movies he’s contributed to sitting in post-production or currently being filmed. According to ABC News , the Marvin Gaye biopic will focus on the troubled artist’s life during the early ‘80s when he was in Europe and trying to kick his drug habit and revive his music career. Gaye’s life came to a tragic end in 1984 when he was shot by his father. Although Kravitz has not yet commented on his involvement, his publicist has confirmed his role. The biopic is set to be shot next year and directed by Julien Temple. Kravitz’s most recent album, ‘Black and White America,’ was released in August of 2011. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/kurt-cobain-filmmaker-courtney-love-is-not-involved-in-upcoming-documentary/” title=”Next: Filmmaker Says Courtney Love Not Involved in Kurt Cobain Documentary” align=”center”]
Jo Hale, Getty Images There is never a dull moment when it comes to former Queens of the Stone Age bassist Nick Oliveri. The musician has not only rejoined Kyuss Lives! , but he also has contributed vocals to the upcoming QOTSA album. It was previously announced that Dave Grohl would play drums on the new QOTSA disc, while Trent Reznor would be contributing to a track, as well. Now, Oliveri is returning to the fold, even if in a limited capacity. A post was issued on the Mondo Generator Facebook page. Oliveri is the frontman and bassist of that band. The update read as follows: NEWS: Nick has re-joined Kyuss, and has recently recorded his vocals on a new Queens of the Stone Age song! Stay tuned. Oliveri split with QOTSA in 2004, and not exactly in amicable fashion. Earlier this year, QOTSA frontman Josh Homme appeared on a Mondo Generator track , so it seems as if fences have been mended between the two, to some extent. Oliveri also left Kyuss Lives! to avoid the ugly court battle over the name, which was taking place between the current and former members of Kyuss. Maybe all the legal hatchets in the incestuous ranks of QOTSA and Kyuss are being buried? Oliveri was also in the news recently when he engaged in a standoff with cops after a domestic disturbance. He took a plea deal and avoided jail time. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/queens-of-the-stone-age-no-one-knows-top-21st-century-hard-rock-songs/” title=”Queens of the Stone Age: Top 21st Century Metal Songs” align=”center”]
SoundgardenWorld.com Here’s a look at the top stories of the day on Loudwire and around the Web: – Soundgarden performed two new tracks from their ‘King Animal’ album last night on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ and guess what? The live footage is available online for your viewing pleasure. [ Loudwire ] – Avenged Sevenfold singer M. Shadows goes in-depth about the band’s upcoming album, what their new drummer Arin Ilejay is bringing to the table and much more. [Loudwire] Eddie Vedder and Dave Grohl join the all-star bill for the 12-12-12 concert at Madison Square Garden. Find out more here: [ Loudwire ] – What are your favorite Rage Against the Machine tracks? We give you our picks for the 10 Best Rage Against the Machine Songs. [ Loudwire ] – Adelitas Way take viewers behind the scenes for the making of their music video for ‘Alive.’ Check it out here. [ Loudwire ] – Sandwich chain Quiznos have just released a power metal-influenced commercial for free toasted cookies. In all honesty, it’s actually very funny. Watch the ad here. [ Loudwire ] Take a look into Metallica ‘s ‘Quebec Magnetic’ DVD with this new trailer. [ Ultimate Metallica ] Legendary guitarist Jimmy Page promises that “substantial” rarities will be featured on upcoming Led Zeppelin remasters. [ Ultimate Classic Rock ] The Who’s Pete Townsend admits that he swiped his trademark ‘windmill’ stage move from Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards. [ Ultimate Classic Rock ] Noel Gallagher insists that the only possible way that Oasis will reunite is that if he goes completely broke. [ Diffuser.fm ] Paul McCartney releases ‘Kisses on the Bottom – Complete Kisses.’ [ Rock Music Report ]
Samir Hussein / Theo Wargo, Getty Images Rockers are getting into the giving spirit and generously donating their time to victims of October’s devastating Superstorm Sandy. Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder and Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl , as well as Bon Jovi, have been added to the lineup for the 12-12-12 concert, which will benefit the Robin Hood Relief Fund’s efforts for victims of Hurricane Sandy. The one-night-only show will take place at Madison Square Garden, the “World’s Most Famous Arena,” in New York City on Dec. 12. Grohl and Vedder join a spectacular lineup that includes previously announced performers like Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Kanye West, the Who, Roger Waters, Alicia Keys and more. Even more artists will be announced for this multi-genre bill, which features rock, pop and hip-hop acts. Tickets go onsale on Monday, Dec. 3, at 12PM ET. The 12-12-12 show is helping the community and the nation come together to provide support to the Tri-State area, which was battered and bruised by the storm’s winds, rain and power. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/best-grunge-bands/” title=”Next: 10 Best Grunge Bands” align=”center”]
Rise Deathcore act the Acacia Strain have been forced to leave their co-headlining slot on their tour with Veil of Maya after a “serious” van accident injured band members and crew. The Acacia Strain have just informed fans through their Facebook page that a van accident has ended their run on the current tour. The band was scheduled to play another handful of dates with co-headliners Veil of Maya, along with Upon a Burning Body, Volumes and Twitching Tongues. Although this comes as bad news for fans, the good news is that nobody was killed or extensively injured by the crash. The Acacia Strain posted the following statement: It comes with heavy hearts and sadness to announce that The Acacia Strain will be leaving their Co-Headlining tour with Veil Of Maya due to a serious van accident. Members of the band and crew are being treated for minor injuries, nothing serious. Frontman, Vincent Bennet commented: Canceling tour dates is something we hate doing but we will make it up to all of you. We are all very grateful to be alive and will see you in the New Year.” As of now, the band is still scheduled to be a part of Hatebreed ‘s 2013 European ‘Persistence’ tour, which also features Agnostic Front and H20, among other strong opening acts.