"American Bang's self-titled album out now. Stream for free on AOL Music."

American Bang just released self-titled major-label debut album for Reprise Records today, August 31st. To celebrate, iTunes selected the band as “Discovery Download” artist of the week. The album’s debut single, “Wild and Young,” is currently available as a free download on the iTunes Store along with the album being on sale for $7.99.

After touring all summer, American Bang will continue on the road for an extensive fall trek in support of the album. The tour, which runs through mid-December, includes a visit to New York City’s Fillmore at Irving Plaza on November 3rd.



The eleven-track album will stream in its entirety beginning August 31st on AOL Music for the official online listening party. In addition, American Bang continues as the latest “Incoming!” artist on the Fuse network, which is also currently hosting a series of exclusive behind-the-scenes webisodes online at Fuse.tv.

“Whiskey Walk” is already bringing in early spins at key radio stations across the country, which officially goes for adds September 7th.

American Bang is Jaren Johnston (singer / guitar), Ben Brown (lead guitar), Kelby Ray (bass), and Neil Mason (drums).

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "American Bang's self-titled album out now. Stream for free on AOL Music."

"Allen Altman shows a serious side in the new movie, 'Incendies.'" - Interview

Montreal native Allen Altman is ready to make a splash at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Altman’s talent for playing deep, brooding roles, complemented by characters ranging from comedic to dramatic, will be showcased in Denis Villeneuve’s highly anticipated film, “Incendies,” set to be released this September 2010. Altman will also shine on the small screen this fall, with his recurring role on HBO Canada’s “Living in your Car.” He recently stopped by to talk about “Incendies.”

Q - You're currently starring in HBO's "Living In Your Car." However, your newest film project "Incendies" seems to be a little more serious than your role on "Living In Your Car." What is the process like preparing for a dramatic role versus that of a light hearted one?

A - Comedy is drama; but a situation is what makes it funny. With great writers like George F. Walker and Dani Romain I had the greatest time working on "Living In Your Car." David Steinberg, who directed most of my scenes, created an atmosphere that allowed the actors to be playful and improvise. He’s awesome. During a scene, he said to me “Allen, do you think you can make that bigger?” He was totally poking fun at me pushing the scene too far.

Q - "Incendies" has an interesting premise. How did you get involved with the project?

A - From what the producers have told me they had a very difficult time casting my role. I was very flattered when Lucie asked me to audition. After reading the material and hearing that Denis Villeneuve was directing, I have to admit I was a little scared. I hoped I could create a character that would do justice to the story. After auditioning for Villenueve and creating the character Notary Maddad, I realized I had to have the part. I buckled down! I worked hard, had a great time and here I am.

Q - In the film, you play Arabic-speaking Notary Maddad. I read that you had to learn to speak French with an Arabic accent. What was that experience like?

A - Learning to speak Arabic was humbling. Speaking French with a Lebanese Arab accent was a challenge I really enjoyed. I had so much dialogue that I found it liberating to lose myself in the character and story.

Q - "Incendies" was shot in both Canada and Lebanon. Was this your first trip to Lebanon?

A - Actually, the Lebanon scenes were shot in Jordan for practical reasons. All my scenes were shot in Montreal and Villeneuve seamlessly made it appear as though my character is having a conversation while driving on a street in Lebanon with Maxim Gaudette (who plays Simon) and Remy Girard (who plays notary Lebel). They shot the point of view of the other two actors in Jordan…Amazing.

Q - How is the culture in Lebanon different than that in Canada?

A - Although my character, who is Lebanese, has a great relationship with the Quebec notary Lebel, this is based solely on a shared mutual respect of the profession. The movie explores what happens when two cultures collide. The epic imagery of cultural tableaus and questions that were never intended to be known, are answered. The culture in Lebanon, like many other Arab countries, is changing. Particularly the struggles of women are changing these countries. "Incendies" reveals a mother's last wish to send her twins, Jeanne and Simon, on a journey to the Middle East in search of their tangled roots. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad's acclaimed play, "Incendies" tells the powerful and moving tale of two young adults and their voyage to the core of deep-rooted hatred, never ending wars and enduring love.

Q - What did you learn from Lebanese people that you were able to incorporate into your character?

A - We are all similar in our differences. Love is healing and hate never breeds anything but more hate. Being an actor is so rewarding and such a thrill when you get to be a part of a great storytelling movie like "Incendies."

Q - You've worked with Penelope Cruz and Charlize Theron in "Head in the Clouds" and Rob Lowe in "Dead Silent." Is there a different atmosphere on the set when Hollywood big names are existent?

A - Every production is different, but when there is more money involved often the stakes are greater and that can affect the mood on set. I stay focused on the work and enjoy the process with the actors I am working with.

Q - What did you learn from these actors and experiences?

A - I recently worked on a movie called "Wandering Eye" with Amanda Righetti, who stars in the television show "The Mentalist" and was in awe at her simplicity and generosity. I can only speak from my own experience but most actors I have had the pleasure of filming with share my philosophy of hard work ethic and enjoying the moment.

Q - Is there anything you wanted to add?

A - Go see "Incendies!" It is a magnificent story.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "Allen Altman shows a serious side in the new movie, 'Incendies.'" - Interview

"Godsmack's Sully Erna's full album preview."

Sully Erna, best known as the lead singer of the acclaimed rock band, Godsmack, is giving fans an exclusive preview of his debut solo album, “Avalon.” The first single, “Sinner's Prayer,” has been released and is now available on iTunes. Listen to a snippet of all of the other tracks from the album.





Also, be sure to check out www.SullyErna.com for all the latest news and updates on what Sully is up to and make sure to pick up a copy of Avalon available everywhere September 14th.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "Godsmack's Sully Erna's full album preview."

"Disturbed's new album 'Asylum' out now." - VIDEOS

Disturbed just released its fifth studio album “Asylum.” Two official music videos for tracks off of “Asylum” have also been released. The video for lead single “Another Way To Die” and the video for album title track “Asylum.”



Every copy of “Asylum” comes with the 75+ minute “Decade of Disturbed” documentary which features live footage, exclusive interviews, and the story on Disturbed up until now.





Disturbed is currently headlining the First Ever Rockstar UPROAR tour with Avenged Sevenfold, Stone Sour, and Hell Yeah. Go to www.rockstaruproar.com for the full list of dates.



BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "Disturbed's new album 'Asylum' out now." - VIDEOS

"The Green Children premieres 'Dragons' music video." - VIDEO

The Green Children just released the official music video for "Dragons," the first single off the group’s debut full-length, "Encounter." The unique video features lead singer Milla, who has developed a sickness due to being bitten by a dragon. Bandmate Marlow waits by her side as she tries to recover. The music video for "Dragons" can now be viewed here.





"Encounter" will be released on October 12 and will feature 12 original songs ranging from upbeat dance tracks to acoustic ballads. Fans can now listen to a special remix of "Dragons" from renowned DJ, Paul Oakenfold on Soundcloud.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "The Green Children premieres 'Dragons' music video." - VIDEO

"10 Years' new video for 'Shoot It Out' out now." - VIDEO

10 Years is celebrating the release of the band’s third studio album, “Feeding the Wolves,” with the debut of the official music video for “Shoot It Out.” The lead single can be found on “Feeding the Wolves” along with a number of other bold and aggressive tracks. The video premiere of “Shoot It Out” can now be seen here.



“Feeding the Wolves,” produced by the Grammy nominated Howard Benson, is now available on iTunes and in all retail outlets. The following formats can be purchased for a limited time only at 10Yearsmusic.com:

"Deluxe Fan Bundle" Feeding the Wolves Autographed CD, 11x17 2-Sided Autographed Poster, 1 Collector's Laminate, and 1 Guitar Pick.

"Fan Bundle" - Feeding the Wolves Autographed CD and 11x17 2-Sided Autographed Poster.



Fans can currently catch 10 Years at the band’s CD release shows in Tennessee followed by the HardDrive Live Tour in October-November. Full tour dates can be found at www.10yearsmusic.com.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "10 Years' new video for 'Shoot It Out' out now." - VIDEO

“Lindsay Lohan has changed for the better – Ha ha hahaha… I see.”

Lindsay Lohan's New Year's resolution was to have a drama free 2010. Unfortunately, like many resolutions, that lasted a whole two weeks. Now, Lohan is telling "Vanity Fair" that she has changed for the better.

 

Ha ha hahaha hahaha hhahahahahah ahahahahaha haahahahahahahah ahahahhaahh… sorry… hahah ahaha hahahah hahahahahh hahaha…

 

Lohan has been in the news for something ridiculous the entire year. Jail, bracelet, alcohol, her dad, partying, court, alcohol, her mom, something. So why on Earth would anyone believe her when she tells "Vanity Fair" that she's changed?

 

 

 

Ha ha hahaha hahaha hhahahahahah ahahahahaha haahahahahahahah ahahahhaahh… sorry… hahah ahaha hahahah hahahahahh hahaha…

 

I know why. Because Lohan honestly believes that what she says is true, or will be. But the truth is Lohan has a problem. And it has nothing to do with alcohol or addiction. The problem is called 'being famous at a young age.' Lohan pretty much did herself in when she was a rising star in Hollywood. Now, the only thing rising in Lohan's life is her blood alcohol level.

 

Ha ha hahaha hahaha hhahahahahah ahahahahaha haahahahahahahah ahahahhaahh… sorry… hahah ahaha hahahah hahahahahh hahaha…

 

Lindsay, do yourself a favor and do porn already. That's the only way your movie sales will be up.

 

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Lindsay Lohan has changed for the better – Ha ha hahaha… I see.”

“Will Rick Moranis return for third ‘Ghostbusters’ film?”

Several websites are a buzz today with news that Rick Moranis might be reprising his role in the next "Ghostbusters" flick. Louis Tully was the dweeby accountant played by Moranis in the first two "Ghostbusters" movies and a favorite character in the franchise. It would be amazing if Moranis did return to the big screen considering he has been retired since 1997. A few years ago Moranis turned down an offer to lend his voice to a "Ghostbusters" video game. The actor has done some voice over work in recent years but otherwise remains retired from Hollywood.

 

 

 

Also in "Ghostbusters 3" news there's a rumor that they will soon be casting the part of Oscar Barrett. You may remember Oscar was Dana Barrett's (Sigourney Weaver) son. The second film never really declared who Oscar's father was but it's speculated this time around the third flick will label Oscar as Dana and Pete Venkman's (Bill Murray) love child. So who would you want to see play the love child of Sigourney Weaver and Bill Murray? My money's on Michael Cera.

 

BYLINE:

Bry Schulz is a writer, photographer, and mother who really hates squash. Not necessarily the game but definitely the vegetable. Email Bry at bry@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Will Rick Moranis return for third ‘Ghostbusters’ film?”

“Universal expanding Harry Potter theme park already?”

Muggles and Wizards everywhere are buzzing with rumors that Universal is considering expanding their Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park by Summer 2012! The rumor is that 'The Lost Continent' area at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure is wasting space. The (apparently boring) attraction is prime real estate considering you have to walk through/past it to get to the Wizarding World if you enter via the Hogwarts Express entrance. Mugglenet.com (yes, I'm serious) is reporting that "we've heard that Universal has an agreement with Warner Brothers insisting on new additions to The Wizarding World in two to three years."

 

Sadly I haven't made my trip (by broom or floo network) to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter but I'm dying to! I was curious what this "Lost Continent" was and what I found led me to agree that it should be bulldozed to make room for more Wizarding goodness! Here's a blurb on what 'The Lost Continent' promises to its visitors... "Myths and legends become reality on this mysterious island which features three sections: one based on ancient Greece with temples and crumbling ruins, the second resembling a bustling North African bazaar and the third a medieval English village from the days of King Arthur." Umm, PASS!

 

 

 

So what should take lame-o Lost Continent's place? Though I cannot say I know what the WW of HP is really missing because I've yet to make my trip but I know of a few things I'd love to see come to life from the books/movies! One would be Gringotts Wizarding Bank. I'm sure an underground roller coaster through the bank's vaults would be an easy choice for Universal for this area of the Wizarding World. Another easy choice for a new attraction would be The Borough! I'd love to see Molly's clock that points to each family member's location (instead of telling time).

 

Needless to say this is a great idea. Get rid of the "ancient Greece temples and crumbling ruins" and bring us more Potter! What would you like to see in place of 'The Lost Continent'?

 

BYLINE:

Bry Schulz is a writer, photographer, and mother who really hates squash. Not necessarily the game but definitely the vegetable. Email Bry at bry@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Universal expanding Harry Potter theme park already?”

“Is Sarah Palin effective in anything?”

Only 40% of people polled believe Sarah Palin would be an effective President. Those people probably fall into either A. Republican or B. Delusional. I couldn't imagine Sarah Palin in office. Not that I'm against a woman being President; rather I feel that Palin is not a woman at all. I don't even think she is human.

 

I would like to see a poll rating Palin's effectiveness in other areas such as parenting, or governing. Her daughter, the newest cast member of "Dancing With The Stars," gave birth to a child without being married. Do 40% of people believe Sarah Palin is effective as a parent? Who knows?

 

 

What about being an effective role model? Or teacher? Or swimsuit model? Or pornstar? Who cares? The reality is those who find her effective are either A. or B. from above. People that hate her will hate her for anything she does. And vice versa.

 

What I do know is that Palin will still probably run for President, which would be good news for Democrats. What she should do is be a talking head pundit that speaks about garbage that only benefits Republicans and trashes Democrats, like Republican pundits do now. If Palin the elder did this, then her poll numbers in effectiveness may go up to 45%.

 

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Is Sarah Palin effective in anything?”

“Goo Goo Dolls’ new album out today.”

"Something For The Rest Of Us," the new studio album from best-selling rock band Goo Goo Dolls, is out today on Warner Bros. Records. In conjunction with its release, the band will perform its current single "Home," on NBC's "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on September 1st, and also on TBS's "Lopez Tonight" on Sep 13th. Check local listings for details.

 

 

 

Written and recorded over the past few years, "Something For The Rest Of Us" delivers another dose of great GOOS' songs such as "Sweetest Lie," "One Night," "Soldier," and "Home." With his songwriting, singer-guitarist Johnny Rzeznik confronts some of the issues that have become part of many people's everyday lives.

 

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Goo Goo Dolls’ new album out today.”

“Jason Reeves’ new video premieres September 1st.”

The video for "Helium Hearts," the new single from multi-platinum songwriter Jason Reeves, will premiere on AOL Music on Wednesday, September 1st. Users can watch a stream of the video on AOL Music's Main Page (www.aolmusic.com) and Reeves' Artist Page (www.music.aol.com/artist/jason-reeves), as well as AOL's Twitter and Facebook pages.

 

The single was released to all digital retailers on August 17th and will impact radio on September 20th. The track, which is currently streaming on Reeves' MySpace page (http://www.myspace.com/jasonreeves), is the first single from Reeves' long-awaited new album, "The Lovesick" — due for release this winter on Warner Bros. Records.

 

 

 

Produced by Adam Smith, The Lovesick features songwriting collaborations with WBR's Senior Vice President of A&R and American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi, who signed Reeves to the label, as well as Reeves' frequent collaborator, singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat. Reeves co-wrote 10 tracks on Caillat's platinum debut Coco, including the smash hit singles "Bubbly" and "Realize," as well as 10 tracks on the deluxe edition of her album Breakthrough which included current hit single "I Never Told You."

 

Reeves is a three-time ASCAP Pop Award winner. His other collaborations include Lenka's "The Show," which went to No. 1 in multiple territories around the world and tied with the classic "Stand By Me" for the most-synched song of last year for SonyATV.

 

The "Helium Hearts" Tour begins August 26th in Seattle, WA, and will stop in more than 30 cities across the United States. Please visit www.jasonreeves.com for a full list of tour dates.

 

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Jason Reeves’ new video premieres September 1st.”

"Slash files divorce from wife. Similar to divorce with Axl Rose?"

After almost 10 years of marriage, two kids, and a who’s who of bands, guitar god Slash is finally calling it quits – with his wife.

TMZ.com reports that Slash filed papers to separate back in July 2010. He agrees to pay spousal support and wishes to have joint custody of their two children.



(Photo courtesy of Chelsea Lauren of Getty Images)

I don’t know which break-up affects me more, this one or the one he had with Axl Rose. Slash’s split with Rose left behind several hits, a few band members, and platinum albums. Slash received future hits and bands when it was all said and done.

Like Slash’s relationship now, it works parallel with that of Rose’s. “Where does she go, where does she go now, where does she go… ooohh, ahhhh, where does she go? (whisper: Slash’s wife), where does she go now…..

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "Slash files divorce from wife. Similar to divorce with Axl Rose?"

"Jared Evan premieres 'In Love With You' video." - VIDEO

Jared Evan has premiered the video for his single "In Love With You." The explosive track that closed last week's episode of "Entourage" will appear on Evan's Interscope Records debut, "Fourth Chapter."



"In Love With You" embodies the intoxicating rock/rap/pop blend heard on the album which is executive produced by Polow Da Don and Jimmy Douglass. "To me it carries an angry tone, like I'm mad at you right now, but I still love you," Evan said, whose passion for rock music shines through on the track.



Watch the Bernard Gourley (Jason Derulo, Backstreet Boys, Talib Kweli) video today and visit JaredEvan.com for more info.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "Jared Evan premieres 'In Love With You' video." - VIDEO

"10 Years' 'Feeding the Wolves.'" - Music Review

I like 10 Years; I think they’re a great rock band with an amazing live show. Unfortunately they’re a band that doesn’t get the credit they deserve. Jesse Hasek is a great singer that is a cross between James Maynard Keenan from Tool and Pete Loeffler of Chevelle, while maintaining his own style. As a fan of 10 Years it’s frustrating to see them practically labeled a one hit wonder. About five years ago they had a massive hit with the song “Wasteland.” I remember the first time I saw 10 Years in concert, I didn’t know who they were. I knew their name and I knew the song “Wasteland,” but I had no idea who they were or that the song was there’s. They were opening for Korn on the “Family Values Tour.” I found their entire set great and then they went into the opening notes of “Wasteland” and I remember thinking, I know that song.

10 Years has released two albums since then to moderate success. By industry standards they couldn’t capture another hit that had the same staying power that “Wasteland” had. As a fan I’m frustrated with their lack of recognition and I have to believe that the band is frustrated with the music industry in general. Let’s refer to the music industry as Wolves for a second. All the industry cares about is a hit single. 10 Years has put out three solid albums, but unfortunately have only been able to get one big hit out of it. The Wolves are hungry for another huge hit.

As any music fan would tell you, nobody cares about the hits. When I go to a Metallica concert, I want to see “Disposable Heroes,” not “Enter Sandman.” When I see Aerosmith, I want them to play “Nobody’s Fault,” and to skip over “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing.” I can only imagine that 10 Years feels this frustration tenfold. The wolves want to be fed another hit. You know what is funny? Their next hit, “Shoot it Out” is about the wolves wanting them to “Shoot Out” another hit. I may be mistaken, but this appears to be a recurring theme throughout the entire album.

With the line, “suffocate integrity till I’m not breathing,” from “Shoot it Out,” the song talks about staying true to yourself vs writing something you don’t believe in, just to be rich and famous. Every musician wants as many people to hear their music as possible, but they want you to hear their music and not the music the industry is telling them to play.

Other song titles on the album include “The Wicked Ones,” “Fix Me,” “Now is the Time” all of which appear to deal with the frustrations of the music industry. “I’m fine in the fire, I feed on the friction, I’m right where I should be, don’t try and fix me” from the song “Fix Me” could be about any problem we all face on a day to day basis, whether it be a teenager dealing with a parent or teacher, an employee dealing with a supervisor or a band trying to exist in the unforgiving industry of “Wolves.”

“Feeding the Wolves” delivers on so many levels. First off it is a very heavy record. Musically it is aggressive, vocally and lyrically it is intense. I predict that this album will get 10 Years to the next level in this industry. What is all the more impressive about it is that they did it on their own terms. They took the stresses that were being pressured on them and turned it into this amazing album, beginning to end. I can honestly say that when I listen to “Feeding the Wolves” I don’t skip over any tracks. It really is that good.

Some of my favorite songs on the record are “Shoot it Out,” “Fix Me,” and “Chasing the Rapture.” My absolute favorite song on the album is “Dead in the Water.” With “Dead in the Water” there is a part in the verses that reminds me of a church choir, where the band singings ohhh, ohhh, ohhh, ohhh (hard to write it out). What’s cool is that I’m pretty sure that is what they were going for, because if I had to guess this song would be about people who hide behind religion while taking advantage of others, like televangelist types.

I really like this album. If you’re into great rock bands like Chevelle, Sevendust etc etc I really think you’ll dig “Feeding the Wolves.” These guys were definitely inspired while making this album. They didn’t hold back any punches, like I said above the album is very aggressive. The “Wolves” are going to be happy with the results from 10 Years; even if they ignored the “Wolves” and stayed true to themselves, they definitely delivered.

BYLINE:

Bob Zerull is the Managing Editor of Zoiks! Online. He writes pop culture commentary, does interviews with bands, and reviews music and stand-up concerts. He also administers Zoiks! Online's Facebook page. Follow Bob on twitter at bzerull. Email Bob at bob@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "10 Years' 'Feeding the Wolves.'" - Music Review

"The making of Katy Perry's 'Teenage Dream' video. Plus NSFW video of 'Peacock.'" - VIDEO

Go behind the scenes with Katy Perry for the making of the "Teenage Dream" video. Meet Perry's sexy costar Josh Kloss and some of her good friends who she included in the Santa Barbara, CA shoot.





Fans can also check out a new, unofficial video for her song "Peacock" created by Ryan James Yezak who brought you the "California Gays" parody.



What do you think of the fan video?

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "The making of Katy Perry's 'Teenage Dream' video. Plus NSFW video of 'Peacock.'" - VIDEO

"The Pretty Reckless covers Eminem and Rihanna." - VIDEO

The Pretty Reckless stopped by Radio 1's Live Lounge and performed an acoustic mash up of Eminem and Rihanna's "Love The Way You Lie" and the xx's "Islands."





"Light Me Up," the debut album from Taylor Momsen and her band, is due out later this year in the US on Interscope Records.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - "The Pretty Reckless covers Eminem and Rihanna." - VIDEO

“Avenged Sevenfold’ ‘Nightmare’ is number 1 on radio.”

"Nightmare," the current single from Avenged Sevenfold, has climbed to No. 1 at Active Rock Radio in the U.S. this week, marking the first time the band has achieved Number 1 in radio airplay. It has enjoyed airplay at Active Rock, Mainstream, and Modern Rock radio stations across the country and was the No. 1 Rock Song on iTunes in the U.S. and the U.K. in its debut week.

 

"Nightmare" is the title track to the band's highly personal new album, which bowed at No. 1 on Billboard's album chart and also topped Billboard's Rock, Hard Rock, and Digital charts. Its No. 1 debut is the band's highest first-week chart position ever. 

 

 

 

Produced by Mike Elizondo (Dr. Dre, Eminem) and mixed by noted engineer Andy Wallace, "Nightmare" was in the works when the band's beloved drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, passed away. The Los Angeles Times has praised "Nightmare's" "elegiac power ballads," and called it "the band's most personal effort yet." USA Today declared, "A7X has as broad a musical palette as any act in metal, with soaring guitar melodies and sorrowful ballads that offset growling metalcore vocals and Metallica-like jackhammer rhythms."

 

Avenged Sevenfold is currently out on the road co-headlining the first ever Rockstar Energy Drink UPROAR Festival with Disturbed. Also on the bill are Stone Sour, Halestorm, and Hell Yeah. Please visit www.RockstarUproar.com for tour dates.

 

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online. He is also the author of the novels, "Hello Lesbian!" and "Anonymous." Email Jason at jason@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Avenged Sevenfold’ ‘Nightmare’ is number 1 on radio.”

“Emmy Red Carpet Fashion Review 2010.” - PHOTOS

Awards show season is officially upon us and it's my favorite time of year. I love nothing more than spending a few Sunday afternoons pining over dresses I will never even come close to seeing in person. I write these fashion reviews for every big red carpet every year. And every year inevitably I get some person who comments and says "who do you think you are? You're a loser." And to be clear that is completely true. I am a loser! I am a loser who has access to the internet just like you! I love writing red carpet reviews and no one will stop me. I do this with love and in the hopes of amusing myself and if I happen to amuse one more person that's just a bonus. So let's get to it! Here's my first Red Carpet Fashion Review of the 2010-2011 Awards Show Season!

 

(All photos courtesy of www.wireimage.com)

 

Kim Kardashian: Grade C

 

 

 

She wore white for the second year in a row. I don't know if that matters to you but I felt like pointing it out. She kind of reminds me of Princess Jasmine in this outfit. That was not one of my favorite Disney Princesses, FYI. I'm more of a Princess Aurora girl. If you don't know which Princess that is you... well you're dead to me. Look at this, it's the first dress in the review and I'm already off on an ADD tangent! The dress is blah, let's keep moving.

 

Betty White: Grade A++

 

 

 

I know, A++ is a pretty high grade to give out. But she's old and I like old people. For being in her 80's Betty White looks smokin' hot! Most 80-somethings don't look this good because they're usually dying. So she gets an A++ from me. Hell I won't even mention anything negative about the decision to wear gold shoes. Good job Betty, I hope you make it back to the Emmy's next year.

 

Lea Michele: Grade A

 

 

 

I hate to jump on the Glee bandwagon because I don't like bandwagons. I happen to really like this dress though. I also happen to really like that necklace with the dress. Navy blue is obviously a "big deal" this year. So bandwagon be damned I'll admit that I like it. A lot.

 

Claire Danes: Grade B+

 

 

 

I'm diggin' the sparkles. I'm diggin' the blond hair.

 

Heidi Klum: Grade B

 

 

 

ALRIGHT. WE GET IT. YOU'VE HAD 4 KIDS AND YOU'RE STILL HOT! Geez. Stay home next year please. You make everyone else who's given birth feel like ass.

 

Kyra Sedgwick: Grade C

 

 

Her clutch reminds me of those seeds that fall off those tree's and spin like helicopters to the ground. No idea what kind of tree those are... But I'd like to take her purse and fling it up into the air and see if it spins on its way back down. This dress is a great color for her! There's nothing particularly special about this dress aside from the fact that it doesn't look stupid.

 

Mariska Hargitay: Grade C

 

 

 

Blah, Blah, Blah... Mariska looks good again... Blah.

 

Jane Lynch: Grade A

 

 

 

Umm.. the phrase "you've come a long way baby" comes to mind. Sue Sylvester and her matchy track suits are a faint memory for me when I see this lovely lady! I do love Jane Lynch regardless of what she wears so if we're being honest I'd have probably given her a high grade even in a track suit. But hey, she's not wearing a track suit she's wearing an awesome purple gown! Me likey.

 

Nina Dobrev: Grade B

 

 

 

My first impression of this dress is that it wouldn't fit over my left thigh. So as I slowly push the bag of Oreo bites further down my desk I have to be honest and say it's a pretty dress. One I'd love to wear. In dreams where I'm anorexic.

 

Anna Paquin: Grade D

 

 

 

CRAP! I really like the show 'True Blood' but Anna Paquin is making me feel sheepish for saying that aloud. What the hell are you wearing Anna?! I'm looking around for King Tut to suddenly show up. Is this a theme party? If so no one else knows.

 

Tina Fey: Grade C

 

 

 

Wait. Tina might have gotten the memo about the Egyptian theme party! Her dress looks like it has hieroglyphics on it! If I'm reading it correctly it says I can find water by following the rock path but bring my bow because there are dangerous mammoths along the way. There are also instructions on how to make fire somewhere near the train of her dress.

 

Lauren Graham: Grade F

 

 

 

This dress is ugly. Is this how it was supposed to look? I feel like she lost a bet or something. I'm sorry Lauren.

 

Jennifer Carpenter: Grade A

 

 

 

HELLO! Somebody should give their stylist a raise! (It's you Jennifer!) Usually I hate the one long sleeve thing but this is working for me. I'm not sure if it's the sparkly-ness or the side-swept hair or the fact that I love me some Dexter. Regardless, I'm a fan of everything going on in this photo.

 

Jane Krakowski: Grade B

 

 

 

Again with the navy blue. This dress looks fab on her! Great color choice. I even like the bows on her shoulder and hip. If you had just said to me "think of a navy blue dress made of lace with big ass bows on the shoulder and hip" I would probably gag on you. But I am not gagging. It works.

 

Kate Gosselin: Grade C

 

 

 

If you're hoping for some Kate bashing you won't get it here. I have a little mom crush on Kate. I love her take no prisoners attitude and her ability to escape her children. I only have two children and I want to run away from my house screaming on a semi-regular basis so I can't imagine what her life is like. And when she escapes she gets to wear ugly black dresses with cowl-necks to the Emmy's. She's f*cking lucky is what she is!

 

Julie Bowen: Grade B

 

 

This photo sucks! The dress was really pretty on TV though you can't see it well in this picture. I particularly enjoy her hair style. However, she looks like she has an eating disorder. I don't know for sure but I would venture to guess she's at least a little anorexic. (I just threw a piece of paper over my bag of Oreo bites).

 

Jewel: Grade F

 

 

 

Talk about a Grandma dress. Betty White, who probably has several grandchildren, looked sexier and younger than Jewel. I have major issues with that little bow on the empire waist. I feel like she's about to tell me when she was my age it cost 5 cents to buy a bottle of Coke.

 

January Jones: Grade F

 

 

 

What in the hell is going on? I know January likes to take risks with her fashion but this is ridiculous. She's like a flamingo dancer from the planet Sparklactica.

 

Christina Hendricks: Grade C+

 

 

 

I like the feathery business on the sleeves and elsewhere on the dress. It is a little like it's been attacked by a pack of rabid raccoons, however it works somehow. And I cannot stop checking out her rack. She must get so sick of that. I bet if she had a dollar for every time she said "My eyes are up here" she'd be in the same tax bracket as Bill Gates.

 

Michael Emerson & Carrie Preston: Grade B

 

 

 

I have nothing to say about Michael Emerson's fashion on the red carpet. (though I have plenty to say about his character on LOST, RIP). Carrie Preston, on the other hand, I will sing her fashion praises! I love this dress. It looked better on TV than it does in this photograph. It's different! I'm into patterns lately. And the poor girl is saddled with the craziest hair color due to the character she plays on 'True Blood' (Arlene), but she made it WOORK with this dress. The dress and the hair color look great together. It would be easy to look like a tramp (like Arlene does most days) with the red dye job. So kudos to Carrie for overcoming THAT obstacle!

 

Dianna Agron: Grade A

 

 

 

Again, I'm a little ashamed to jump on Glee's bandwagon. But there's just no avoiding the fact that this dress is GORGE! I want to wear this dress. Actually it reminds me of a dress (that I guarantee was about $10,000 cheaper) that I wore to a wedding once. This is definitely classier than a wedding guest dress. And her hair goes perfect with it!

 

Toni Collette: Grade F

 

 

WTF.

 

Kristen Wiig: Grade A+

 

 

 

I want this dress, where can I get it! Yes. I love this dress. I am even happy about the crap on the shoulders. Sign me up. I'll wear it. I'd also like Kristen's career. So if I could just take her whole life that'd be good.

 

Rutina Wesley: Grade D

 

 

 

Yeah, no. I want to like this but I really don't like this. As I've said a few times already I love 'True Blood' and the "Truebie" in me wants to love Rutina because she's on my fav show. But I'd have to take a lot of 'V juice' before this dress looks good.

 

Mindy Kaling: Grade C

 

 

 

Oh Mindy, Mindy, Mindy. Fire your hair stylist. This is a GLARING example of how crucial the entire ensemble is to completing a look. Hold your hand over her head and just look at the dress... it's lovely! I like the dress! It's fun, playful, makes her figure look like the perfect hour-glass... but her hair! Ohhh, the hair is just awful. What is going on with her hair? For real, it's screwing up the whole thing. I keep thinking of Tinker Bell. She's like the goth Tinker Bell who just got back from a weekend crack bender in Reno.

 

It was a great "opening night" last night for Awards Show Season! The red carpets will take a bit of a hiatus until winter time when things really get into full swing. I hope we see these ladies again at the SAG's, Golden Globes, and Oscars. Some should repeat their fashion choices and some could probably get dressed in the dark and do better than they did at the Emmy's. Whatever your fashion opinion I'd LOVE to hear your picks for best and worst dressed! It was hard for me to pick my fave's for best and worst but I've given it a lot of careful consideration and here are my choices for best and worst dressed ladies at this year's Emmy Awards...

 

BEST DRESSED: Lea Michele. She chose the perfect color, dress, jewels, and hair style. 100% awesome!

 

HONORARY MENTION: Kristen Wiig. I had a tough time choosing just one best dressed winner. I felt like I had to throw Kristen's name up here because I liked her dress so much. 

 

WORST DRESSED: January Jones. There's not much more to say besides that the woman looked ridiculous. The red carpet is no place for aliens.

 

BYLINE:

Bry Schulz is a writer, photographer, and mother who really hates squash. Not necessarily the game but definitely the vegetable. Email Bry at bry@zoiksonline.com.

READ MORE - “Emmy Red Carpet Fashion Review 2010.” - PHOTOS