Written By: Moti Kupfer Release date - 20.05.1996 On February 1, 1995, at 7:00 a.m., guitarist Richie Edwards left his room at the Embassy Hotel on Bayswater Road in London. He left behind a packed suitcase and drove back to his apartment in Cardiff, Wales. In the two weeks leading up to his disappearance, Edwards had withdrawn £2,800 from his bank account. He later traveled to the passport office in Newport, and taxi driver Anthony Hatherall drove him around the area where he had grown up. On February 14, Edwards received a parking ticket for his car. Three days later, Edwards’ car was found abandoned near the Severn Bridge close to the English city of Bristol, a location known at the time as a frequent suicide spot. Edwards was never found. Over the years, several theories emerged claiming that he had simply abandoned his career and disappeared voluntarily, including rumors that he was living on a kibbutz in Israel. In 2008, he was officially declared dead. Edwards vanished on the very day he was supposed to fly to the United States with “Manic Street Preachers” vocalist James Dean Bradfield to promote the band’s third studio album “The Holy Bible”, which had been released in August 1994. The “Manics”, who suddenly lost both their primary lyricist and the man many considered the band’s true leader, decided that despite the immense emotional weight of the situation, they would continue without him. Fifteen months later, on May 20, 1996, they released their fourth studio album “Everything Must Go”. “We always kept a place for Richey on stage,” James Dean Bradfield later said in an interview. It was not only the spirit of Richie Edwards that inspired the three remaining members to continue, but also his lyrics, several of which found their way onto the album and helped guide James Dean Bradfield, Nicky Wire (bass, backing vocals), and Sean Moore (drums, trumpet, backing vocals) through the band’s darkest period. “Manic Street Preachers” were formed at Oakdale Comprehensive School in Blackwood, Wales, where all four members studied together. Drummer Sean Moore is James Dean Bradfield’s cousin and had lived with the Bradfield family after his parents divorced. The band originally began as a punk rock group heavily inspired by “The Clash”, a band Bradfield deeply admired. Original bassist Miles Woodward left the group in 1988, and Richie Edwards, who initially served as the band’s roadie, officially joined soon afterward. Although not considered a technically gifted guitarist, Edwards became a major contributor to the band’s lyrics, image, and overall artistic direction. According to his sister Rachel, Edwards was raised in a happy home and had a cheerful upbringing. During high school, he was known as a supportive older brother who helped calm Rachel’s anxieties about school, a complete contrast to the emotional struggles that later consumed him. After releasing the EP “Suicide Alley” in 1988 and another EP in 1990, the band signed with the indie label “Heavenly Records” and began building momentum in the British music scene. During an interview with Steve Lamacq from “NME”, Edwards famously carved the phrase “4 Real” into his arm with a razor blade to prove the band’s sincerity. He was later taken to a hospital where he received 17 stitches. The media storm surrounding the incident helped turn “Manic Street Preachers” into one of Britain’s most talked-about young bands, allowing them to develop an intensely loyal fanbase. After two early albums built around a modern alternative rock sound, the band released their third studio album “The Holy Bible”, a dark gothic and industrial-inspired record that reflected Edwards’ deteriorating mental state. The album dealt with themes such as freedom of speech, the Holocaust, self-starvation, childhood trauma, fascism, and suicide, becoming one of the bleakest and most uncompromising records of the 1990s. By February 1995, “Manic Street Preachers” stood at a crossroads. The band seriously considered breaking up following Edwards’ disappearance, but after several months of uncertainty, they chose to continue. The result was “Everything Must Go”, an album featuring five songs written or co-written by Richie Edwards himself. At that stage, the remaining members still believed he might eventually return, since no body had ever been found. Despite Edwards’ disappearance, “Everything Must Go” became the most optimistic album “The Manics” had released up to that point. Nicky Wire wrote much of the remaining material, filling the lyrics with hints of longing and hope that Edwards would one day reappear. In contrast to the gothic and less accessible sound of the previous album, “Manic Street Preachers” introduced synthesizers and string arrangements that transformed many of the songs on “Everything Must Go” into massive rock anthems. Nowhere was that shift more evident than on the opening single “A Design for Life”, perhaps the band’s most iconic song alongside “Motorcycle Emptiness”. The track feels like both a tribute to Richie Edwards and a declaration that the band had chosen survival over collapse. The album’s themes remained intelligent and socially aware despite its more melodic direction. “Kevin Carter” explored the tragic life of the South African photojournalist Kevin Carter, while “Small Black Flowers That Grow in the Sky” dealt with animal cruelty and emotional isolation. “Elvis Impersonator: Blackpool Pier” reflected on Britain’s fascination with American culture and identity, and “Interiors (Song for Willem de Kooning)” served as a tribute to painter Willem de Kooning during his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. The closing track “No Surface All Feeling” directly addressed Edwards’ deteriorating mental state, with Richie himself also performing guitar parts on the song, making it one of his final musical contributions to the band. The album’s title, “Everything Must Go”, was reportedly inspired by the debut EP from “Joy Division”, “An Ideal for Living”. 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Let's say... you will not find here a story about the recording of a "Masterpiece", about the creation of "innovative" and "groundbreaking" music, or about a bunch of "multi-talents", "virtuosos" who created a masterpiece in a single moment of "enlightenment", no you will not!! This is a simple story about a guy... A guy who lost a close friend and a groundbreaking band in its heyday, A guy trying to find his identity and musical future. A guy who recorded an entire album on his own (so maybe he's actually a multi-instrumentalist?), An album that, contrary to all expectations, was very successful. A guy going through a difficult divorce... And especially a guy who tries to form a band and do what he loves most, music !!! (Photo: Martyn Goodacre) So, listening to this album for us is like riding an electric scooter. Sounds delusional to you??? You will soon realize how much the similarity exists here. Listening to this album you will find moments when you get up and down the scooter, pushing with your feet instead of using the electric motor and dragging it with your hands from sidewalk to sidewalk. It refers to those moments when you feel like you are carrying the song instead of the song sweeping you away. Songs like "My Poor Brain," "Up In Arms," ​​"February Stars," and "New Way Home" sound like an initial experience of a band looking for its way, a band trying to find its identity. So if you are a die-hard fan of the band (by the way we are too) or you think what is being said here is "sacrilege", be honest with yourself and admit that in at least two or three of the songs you found yourself concentrating on something else. On the other hand, there are moments in this album where you cruise on the scooter quickly, effortlessly, with the wind gently blowing your face and you lightly pass the cars and passers-by. This refers to songs like "Monkey Wrench", "Hey, Johnny Park!", "Wind Up", "My Hero" and of course, the phenomenal "Everlong" are indescribable the feeling, power, and experience that the body and mind go through while listening to them. As if something connects you with a virtual navel to them and they now control you, toss you and shake you, without resistance dedicate yourself to feeling, devoting yourself to melody, lyrics, and sound. And of course, there are also special moments in this album "Metal Melters", "Heartbreakers" and "Tear Squeezers" you probably know what it means: "See You" and "Walking after you" which are simple, direct, and exciting pieces that feel like a "kick in the stomach". So how did all this magic come about? After his first album was a success, Dave decided he was going all in, he declined an offer to join as a drummer in Tom Petty's band and formed a rock band. He added guitarist Pat Smear who played with him on Nirvana, Nate Mendel on bass, and William Goldsmith as a drummer. They went on an intense tour with their red VAN, performing with songs from Dave's first album and writing while making what would later become the album "The Color and the Shape". (Photo: Mick Hutson) At the end of 1996, with several songs composed during the tour, they entered a shabby studio on a farm in Washington, D.C., and think they were ready to record. But not! Producer Gil Norton whom Dave hired mostly in light of the production he did for the Pixies, puts the band to the test and makes them record the songs dozens of times because they sound really "bad"! After the recordings are mostly done, they take a vacation for the holidays, but the troubled Dave records two new songs during the vacation, (one of which is an acoustic version of Everlong) and decides to bring the whole band, minus the drummer to a recording studio in Hollywood, to fix some songs from the farm recordings. What started as a two-song patch and a recording of two new songs became very quickly a re-recording of the entire album, with Dave besides the guitar and vocals sitting behind the drums and dispossessing William of the drummer role. In all those sessions the band members do not understand why Dave does not invite William to the recordings but do not get into a confrontation with him, still, this is his baby. William who discovers the thing from Nate and not Dave, is badly hurt to the depths of his soul, decides not to be a "puppet on a string" and leaves the band. In the end, only two songs from the album are the fruit of William's sticks: "Doll" and "Up in Arms". After finishing the recordings and editing the album, Dave suddenly realizes that this album was a form of therapy, psychological treatment for a person who has lost his best friend and loved one. A treatment that begins with fear and anxiety, continues with self-calming, ends with hope, and embarks on a new path. This enlightenment that came at the end of the recordings and the editing stages of the album left such a big mark on Dave that he thought of "decorating" the album cover with a picture of a psychologist! Correct, the album is not a "masterpiece", but it aspires to be there. Is undoubtedly a milestone, the beginning of one of the greatest rock bands of the modern age. The creation of a band that has left its mark on the music map of today and over the years will bring to the mainstream kicking songs, sawing guitars, aggressive drums, and amazing performances. So it was a simple story, about a pretty simple guy, who formed a rather modest rock band, which was haunted at the beginning by "The Grunge Spirits" and the character of Kurt Cobain, and today became in its own right and against all odds, a legend that is the epitome of modern rock! It turned out that the album survived countless upheavals, went through two divorce proceedings (the divorce of Dave and the band from the drummer William), two recordings, countless rehearsals, cost a lot of money, and in the end, was also named after a bowl with red and white stripes. Is the most successful album of the band to date !! And even though we're sure you've heard it a million times already, you must listen to it again, just must. Listen to the album on Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

Today we will tell you about the well-known singer, keyboardist, and bassist Dusty Hill, known for his many years of membership in "ZZ Top". (Photo: zztop.com) Hill was born in Texas on May 19, 1949, where he also formed "ZZ Top" 20 years later with guitarist and singer Billy Gibbons and drummer Frank Beard. The band's first album was released in 1971 and since then Hill has served as a permanent member of a band that has also been credited with breaking a record as the band that has held one lineup for the longest time - lasting over 50 years. He was the bass player of the band but also played keyboards and sang back up and lead vocals on some of the band's songs. The band sold over 50 million albums over the years. Hill released 15 studio albums with the band and worked with them on the 16th album that guitarist Jeff Beck is supposed to be a guest on. The band's albums "Tres Hombres" from 1973 and "Eliminator" from 1983 are included in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. What's more, the album "Eliminator" was ranked 39th on "Rolling Stone" magazine's Top 100 Albums' 80s album, with sales earning it "Diamond" status, that is, over 10 million copies. Hill also starred in several small roles in films including the film "Back to the Future 3." He was offered a million dollars to shave his beard for a commercial, he refused. In 1984 he accidentally shot himself in the stomach, he drove himself to the hospital to receive treatment. He was inducted into the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" with his band in 2004. Hill died on July 28, 2021, in his home in Texas and he is 72 years old. A week it was reported that he was injured in the hip and he will probably be forced to miss the band's performances shortly. "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

This album stands as a true modern marvel in the world of rock music,an immediate eruption that sent tsunami-sized waves crashing across the scene, engulfing everything in their path and reshaping the very landscape of metal. Released on May 19, 2023, “Sleep Token” unveiled their third studio album, “Take Me Back to Eden,” the culmination of a three part journey that began in 2019. We left “Sleep Token” in our previous reviews at two crucial thresholds, “Sundowning,” their twilight ritual of a debut (slow released at sundown, cloaked in myth and restraint), and “This Place Will Become Your Tomb,” where the intimacy sharpened and the project first cracked mainstream charts. Picking up that thread, “Take Me Back to Eden” feels like the mask lifted just enough to show a pulse, grander in scope, harder in contrast, and produced for impact by Vessel with Carl Bown after the band’s pivot away from George Lever. The sessions took place at Treehouse Studios in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, with Ste Kerry mastering the album. Vessel’s fingerprints are everywhere, vocals, guitars, bass, keys, and synths, while II delivers the precision drumming that underpins the record’s extremes. The expanded production range meant more space for delicate piano and electronic textures, while still leaving room for some of the heaviest moments in the band’s catalogue. Photo: Andy Ford The story of the album’s meteoric rise really began on January 5, 2023, with the sudden release of “Chokehold”. There was no long marketing buildup, just a quiet drop that hit like a lightning strike. Within hours, it began circulating on social media and fan forums, its slow-burning intro and crushing drop pulling in listeners far beyond the band’s existing fanbase. In a matter of days, “Chokehold” drove the band’s Spotify monthly listeners from under 300,000 to over 1.58 million, a leap almost unheard of in modern rock. By the time the week was out, covers and reaction videos were flooding YouTube, Will Ramos of “Lorna Shore” delivered his own take, and playlists from the mainstream to the underground were adding the track. The single even made its way onto the U.S. Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart at No. 37, despite having no traditional radio push. Lyrically, it confronted the gravity of a toxic yet irresistible connection, where turning “walls to gold” became a metaphor for transforming pain into something valuable to keep the bond alive. The very next day the second single, “The Summoning” arrived, hitting No. 1 on Spotify’s Viral 50 and drawing millions of streams and YouTube views within days. It became one of the most discussed songs of the year, shifting from heavy, prowling djent riffs into an unexpected smooth, funk-influenced ending that feels like something you’d hear late at night, while lyrically surrendering to a connection both alluring and dangerous, described by fans as “a blood trail, red in the blue,” the sign of complete submission. The album’s contrasts define its liturgy. “Granite” is built on the pulse of a trip hammer heartbeat, its lyrics steeped in imagery of emotional breakdown and destructive cycles, evoking the weight and erosion of stone against the volatility of sulfur. “Aqua Regia” glides on sleek, glassy keys over clipped percussion, the title referencing a potent acid that can dissolve gold, a metaphor for love and transformation that is both corrosive and refining, dissolving the ego as much as it purifies. “Vore” is among the heaviest and most unsettling tracks, a suffocating mass of distortion that uses its title’s connotations to evoke a consuming, overwhelming desire, one that blurs the boundaries between self and other until the listener is devoured by the emotion. “DYWTYLM” (“Do You Wish That You Loved Me”) shifts to minimalist pop textures, its deceptively simple delivery carrying the weight of self doubt and emotional numbness, asking a question that feels as much directed inward as it is outward. Photo: Sleep Token The back half carries the reckoning. “Ascensionism” is a two act confessional, first a prayer then a punishment. “Are You Really Okay?” asks it outright, its vulnerability stark. “The Apparition” blurs grief into motion. “Rain” rinses the palette for the eight minute title track, “Take Me Back to Eden”, a finale that gathers every motif and burns them sky high before releasing you into “Euclid”, the closing benediction. And then came the breakthrough. “Take Me Back to Eden” became Spotify’s most streamed metal album of 2023, outpacing even Metallica’s “72 Seasons,” with more than 350 million streams tallied by early January 2024, numbers that confirmed what the feeds already felt, this was not a cult anymore, it was a phenomenon. Commercially, the album demolished ceilings the band had only grazed before, No. 3 in the U.K., No. 16 on the U.S. Billboard 200, and the industry recognition followed, from year end lists to big stage trophies (Heavy Music Awards Best Album and Billboard Music Awards Top Hard Rock Album). Not to mention the scandal sparked by the 2025 Download Festival, which placed the band as a headliner alongside giants like Green Day and Korn. Whether you hear it as genre fusion or genre refusal, the cultural impact is indisputable. For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

A Sneak Peek... Papa Roach's "Crooked Teeth" album showcases the band's ability to evolve and stay relevant in the rock music scene. Released in 2017, this album serves as a testament to their continued energy and raw intensity. The album strikes a balance between melodic hooks and a heavier sound, making it both radio-friendly and appealing to longtime fans. From the very beginning, "Crooked Teeth" captivates listeners with its aggressive and catchy tracks. The title track, "Crooked Teeth," sets the tone with its heavy guitar riffs and Jacoby Shaddix's signature raspy vocals. One of the standout tracks on the album is "Help," which became an instant hit. Its anthemic chorus and emotional lyrics make it a relatable and uplifting song. Papa Roach continues to explore different musical territories on this album, incorporating elements of electronic music into their rock sound. Tracks like "Born for Greatness" and "Periscope" (featuring Skylar Grey) demonstrate the band's willingness to experiment while maintaining their distinctive edge. While "Crooked Teeth" is predominantly a high-energy album, Papa Roach also delves into introspective and personal themes. "American Dreams" tackles political and social issues, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the state of the nation. Similarly, "None of the Above" addresses feelings of alienation and the search for identity, showcasing the band's ability to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Overall, the album showcases Papa Roach's enduring passion for their craft. It's an album that delivers a mix of hard-hitting rock anthems and introspective ballads, allowing the band to explore their musical boundaries without losing their core identity. With its infectious hooks, powerful lyrics, and energetic performances, this album proves that Papa Roach is still a force to be reckoned with in the rock music landscape. In summary, "Crooked Teeth" is an exciting and well-rounded album that showcases Papa Roach's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. Fans of the band will appreciate the album's dynamic sound, emotional depth, and infectious energy. Listen to the album on: Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

A Sneak Peek... After 18 years, yes, yes 18 years, "Faith No More" have released their seventh and final album to date named "Sol Invictus". It may sound pretentious, detached from reality, and even rude to say that this album sounds just like it should have sounded and the natural continuation of the previous album, but we do not care because this is exactly the band and its style !! Pretentious, detached, cheeky, eclectic, rough and straight forward. (Photo: Ricardo DeAratanha) So even though this is the band's "comeback" album there are no strong hits or songs that grab you from the first second, but this album is definitely full of "Faith", full of all directions. As fans of the band, we did not care at all that there is nothing catchy here, we were happy that we got more new material from the band, like a drugged man who left the rehab facility a few years ago but suddenly he has a flashback remembering the good things the drugs gave him. Just hearing Mike's voice with Bourdain's drums, Billy's bass, Rudy's keyboards, and John's distortion make us very happy. Some have said, that after 18 years they have only 10 songs to put on the album or why are their songs on the album that are very reminiscent of their previous songs. So we think it just reinforces the fact that this band doesn't give a @%#$& on everyone and does what it wants, a unique bunch of talents that follows its creative truth. Although we have already mentioned that there are no strong hits here, there are quite a few great songs that will blow you away, kick you and break you down like a chiropractor who has a lot to say, like: "Superhero", "Separation Anxiety", "Motherfucker" and despite being a bit soft the song carries The name of the album will take you with it without resistance. So click play on: Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

On May 19, 2017, Linkin Park released the album "One More Light", Chester Bennington's last album with the band. We must say that expressing ourselves in this review has been challenging. We have been filled with emotions, reminiscing, and undergoing a tumultuous inner battle between instinct and logic. Thus, we would like to begin this review by sharing a quote from "Metal Hammer" magazine: “With One More Light, Linkin Park have waved goodbye to Rock!!" Now Let's Go Back A Little... Our disappointment as devoted Linkin Park fans began with the release of their album "The Hunting Party" in 2014. Our relationship with the band started to cool off as we struggled to connect with the album. It felt like a desperate attempt by the band to recapture their aggressive sound, but after multiple listens, we were left confused, frustrated, and even angry. Somewhere along the way, the band's musical credibility seemed to fade, perhaps lost in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, symbolized by their association with the luxury car brand Mercedes AMG. Three years later, "One More Light" was released, marking a stark contrast to their previous album. The roaring guitars, pounding drums, and fast-paced rhythms were replaced with pop songs adorned with electronic elements and soothing vocals. The first single, "Heavy," unsettled us, causing discomfort and making it difficult for us to embrace the sounds emanating from the speakers. We hoped to find something in the song that would rekindle our hope and evoke a sense of power, a glimpse of the band's new sound. Sadly, our search was in vain. To make matters worse, the release of the single "Battle Symphony" only intensified our concerns. Everything felt excessively saccharine, like a mouthful of hot marshmallows. When the third video/single, "Good Goodbye," came out, it felt like the final blow—the swan song of a beautiful era that would never return. We had already witnessed a similar transformation with "Thirty Seconds To Mars," turning into a sugary confection. Were Linkin Park following the same path? What happened to Chester's voice? What happened to Mike? Where did Brad's guitars disappear to? And who abducted Joe Hahn? For us, this album remains unresolved, and there is no need to persuade us to accept it. "One More Light" is simply a polished, professional, and pop-oriented product that struggles to find its place in our music collection and library. Let's be clear, we do appreciate pop music. Some of us have even had a past deeply rooted in pop (but we will maintain individual privacy regarding names). We also appreciate bands exploring different sounds and styles, as the fusion of innovative elements can be a wonderful thing in music. However, it becomes challenging to detach ourselves from the band's roots, from the signature sound that defines their DNA. It's frustrating to listen to a rock song without the presence of acoustic drums and guitars, where everything becomes overly electronic—it just doesn't have the same impact. (Photo: HKMagazine) This is an opportune moment to initiate a discussion regarding the recent trend among several prominent bands (such as Bring Me The Horizon, All Time Low, Thirty Seconds To Mars, Panic at The Disco) who have undergone unexplained transformations towards pop music. These transformations involve the utilization of catchy lyrics, pleasant melodies, and electronic sounds that seem to erase the distinctive qualities that once defined these bands. Understanding the underlying motives for this shift can be perplexing. Is it driven by a thirst for financial gain? Is it an expression of musical creativity? Is it an attempt to redefine oneself or push artistic boundaries? What causes these bands to sound more like "Ed Sheeran," "Maroon 5," or "Justin Bieber"? These questions and many more warrant a lengthy discussion, but for now, let's focus on this specific album. The band faced harsh criticism from music critics and a significant portion of their fanbase for this album, leading Mike, Chester, and even Brad to offer various excuses and explanations regarding its musical style. As Chester eloquently described it: “If you’re saying we’re doing what we’re doing for a commercial or monetary reason, trying to make success out of some formula… then stab yourself in the face,” But then an inconceivable tragedy occurred... Tragically, on the same day the second official single from the album, "Talking to Myself," was released, Chester Bennington took his own life. The news of his death was met with an indescribable heaviness—a rush of blood from head to toe, a gut-wrenching blow, a profound weakness throughout the body, overwhelming sadness, and an immense sense of loss. Losing Chester, just like losing Chris Cornell, felt like losing one of the greatest vocalists of our generation. As is often the case, a person's creations take on a different meaning after their passing. This album, in particular, underwent a profound transformation in sound, significance, and essence. When revisiting the album in the wake of this loss, it suddenly becomes unmistakably Chester. Despite the absence of his signature screams, which were his most recognizable trademark, the album resonates with his essence in its entirety. (Photo: Linkin Park) Chester Bennington's struggles with mental health were well-known to the band's fans. In interviews, he openly discussed the battles he faced within his own mind. Despite appearing calm and normal on the surface, an internal "world war" raged within him. Chester fought against himself, his emotions, and his thoughts. As a result, the entire album takes on a different character. Songs that were originally written with specific contexts or intentions now carry an interpretation that is uniquely Chester's. One of the remarkable aspects of music is its ability to be interpreted by listeners in ways that resonate with their own personalities and current life experiences. Songs like "Talking to Myself," "Battle Symphony," "Heavy," and, of course, the titular track "One More Light" suddenly acquire entirely new meanings and become inseparably linked to Chester. Originally, "One More Light" was inspired by the passing of an employee at Warner Bros. Records, someone the band knew personally. Mike Shinoda felt compelled to write a song about her after her death, intending to convey the message of caring for others. Following Chester's own passing, the band made the decision to release the song as a single. A poignant music video, directed by Joe Hahn, was dedicated to Chester and featured alternating scenes of Linkin Park performing, with Chester singing alongside the audience. The band members acknowledged the emotional challenges they faced during the creation of this video, but they believed it served as a way for them to use their talents to bring some solace and light to many people, particularly their fans. There are many interesting and unusual things on this album... This album marked a departure from the band's usual songwriting process. Unlike previous albums where the focus was on creating the musical structure and melody first, for this album, they started with writing the lyrics. This was a significant shift for them. Furthermore, it was the first time the band members collaborated with other artists during the songwriting process. In the past, such collaborations typically occurred towards the end of the song's development, if at all. However, on this album, they involved co-artists from the initial stages of writing the lyrics. It is worth noting that Chester's involvement in writing the lyrics was limited to just two songs on the album. Despite this, after his passing, the lyrics took on a profound resonance and seemed to emanate from his very soul. Although the guitars may not have been as prominent or noticeable as in their previous albums, Brad emphasized the tremendous guitar work on this album. Multiple layers of diverse guitar sounds were intricately woven together to complement and enhance the other elements within each song. Given the band's decision to explore new directions with this album, the guitar work presented significant challenges as they sought to align the sounds with the new elements and overall vision of the album. In conclusion, the album "One More Light" may not be flawless, but its significance and interpretation undergo a profound shift following Chester's untimely passing. Listening to the album in retrospect provides a completely different perspective. This album may mark the end of an era for the beloved band. While Mike Shinoda continues to create music, and there have been discussions suggesting that the band's journey may not be entirely over, it is evident to all that it can never be the same without Chester. The band's golden age, defined by his presence and talent, has come to an end. Listen to the album on Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

He is one of the most influential artists on the development of rock music in the 20th century, he plays the guitar like a rotor of a combat helicopter, and he claims that he even invented "Heavy Metal". His name is Pete Townshend and he is celebrating a birthday today. (Photo: Ollie Millington) Here are 10 really interesting facts about him: 1. His father was a saxophonist in the British Royal Air Force. He wrote the hit "Unchained Melody" performed by many artists. 2. He got his first guitar from his grandmother when he was 11 years old. 3. Already at the age of 12 he formed his first band "The Confederates". John Entwistle was also part of it, he played the trumpet there. 4. He is the lead songwriter of "The Who" and has written over 100 songs for the band. 5. He invented the concept of "rock opera" with the album "Tommy" from 1969. This was the first time that a rock album was written based on a complete plot story and a central character built just like an opera. Townshend was able to take all the elements present in opera, apply and assimilate them into rock and roll. 6. Pete is a multi-instrumentalist and self-taught who has taught himself to play the instruments: guitar, bass, banjo, ukulele, mandolin, piano, accordion, violin, harmonica and even drums. 7. He plays guitar on David Bowie's song "Slow Burn." It's not the only Bowie song he's playing. There's also "Because You're Young". 8. He wrote the lyrics for two songs from David Gilmour's solo album "About Face". 9. He also produced the iconic song "Fire" by Arthur Brown's Crazy World. 10. He is ranked 10th on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

Here are some interesting facts about Paul Di’Anno who was the lead vocalist for "Iron Maiden" from 1978 to 1981: = Paul Di’Anno was born Paul Andrews on May 17, 1958, in Chingford, East London, England. = He was raised in a working-class family and had a tough upbringing, including time in and out of trouble during his youth. = As a teenage he was working as a butcher and a chef in hotels and restaurants. = Early musical influences included punk rock, heavy metal, and bands like "Deep Purple", "Led Zeppelin", and "Sex Pistols". = In 1978, Di’Anno became the lead singer for "Iron Maiden", replacing Dennis Wilcock. = He recorded vocals for the band’s first release, "The Soundhouse Tapes" (1979), which gained them attention in the NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) scene. = In February 1980 he released his first single with the band - "Running Free". = Di’Anno fronted the band on their debut studio album, "Iron Maiden", released in 1980, which featured songs like "Prowler”, "Iron Maiden" and “Phantom of the Opera.” = On December 21, 1980 he performed with "Maiden" in Rainbow Theatre, London. This performance would be released as the firs video of the band named "Live At The Rainbow", on May 11, 1981. = He also sang on the second album, "Killers" (1981), which included tracks such as “Wrathchild” and “Murders in the Rue Morgue”. = Di’Anno’s raw, punk-influenced voice was key to "Iron Maiden’s" early sound. = His erratic behavior and heavy drinking and drug use led to growing tension with the band. = He was fired from "Iron Maiden" in September 1981, officially due to vocal issues but largely due to substance abuse and unreliability. = In 1983, he formed a self-titled band, "Di’Anno", and released the "Di’Anno" album in 1984, blending metal with hard rock. = He briefly joined the short-lived NWOBHM supergroup "Gogmagog" in 1985, alongside ex-"Iron Maiden" drummer Clive Burr, future "Iron Maiden" guitarist Janick Gers, guitarist Pete Willis of "Def Leppard" and bassist Neil Murray previously of "Whitesnake". = "Gogmagog" released the EP "I Will Be There" in 1985, but the project quickly dissolved. = Also in 1985, Di’Anno formed "Battlezone", a heavier band more in line with his "Maiden" roots. = "Battlezone" released two studio albums: "Fighting Back" (1986) and "Children of Madness" (1987), both receiving moderate success in the UK and Europe. = In the late 1980s, he also briefly collaborated with the melodic metal band "Praying Mantis", contributing to live performances, together with fellow "Iron Maiden" member Dennis Stratton, recording of their 1990 live album "Live at Last". = In 1990, he formed "Killers", named after the "Maiden" album. "Killers" released "Murder One" (1992) and "Menace to Society" (1994). = In 1997, Di’Anno formed "The Almighty Inbredz", a crossover punk-metal project. "The Almighty Inbredz" released an EP in 1998. = In late 2008, Di'Anno relocated to Brazil and toured with a new band named "Rockfellas". = Between 2005 and 2014, Di’Anno worked with a Swedish "Iron Maiden" tribute-style band, performing Maiden classics. In 2006 they recorded a cover of "Led Zeppelin's" song "Kashmir" = In 2011, he was convicted of benefit fraud in the UK after it was revealed he had been performing while claiming disability benefits. He was sentenced to nine months in prison, serving a few months. = In August 2014 Di'Anno released the album "The League of Shadows" with a new band, "Architects of Chaoz". = In August 2023, it was announced that Di'Anno would release a new album under the name "Paul Di'Anno's Warhorse". = Di'Anno was part of various tribute albums for "ZZ Top", "UFO", "Van Halen", "Thin Lizzy", "Nazareth", "The Rolling Stones", "Led Zeppelin", Rod Stewart and The Faces, and even A Metal Tribute To Michael Jackson. = Di’Anno identified as Christian, mentioning belief in God in several interviews. In various passages he also claimed to be Muslim, Jewish, and Aboriginal. = Di'Anno married five times and had six children. = Throughout his career he struggle with drug and alcohol addiction, which affected his health and career. = His health deteriorated significantly during the 2010s due to chronic leg problems, including infection and severe arthritis. = He became wheelchair-bound and underwent major leg surgery in 2022, which was funded in part by fans through crowdfunding. = In November 2021, Di'Anno relocated to Croatia to undergo treatment and surgery for his knee. "Iron Maiden" helped pay for the final part of his treatment. = Paul Di’Anno died on on 21 October 2024, at the age of 66, following years of health complications. "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

He is multi-talented, multi-band, and multi-album, He is... Josh Homme !! So this time we will review his musical career through the albums he was part of and there are lots... Let's try to focus on full studio albums... (Photo: Andy Ford) 1. In 1991 he released his first album and debut album "Wretch" with the Stoner / Desert band he formed called "Kyuss". The band went through a lot of names and a lot of demos until the first full album came out. The composition is considered to be one of the root compositions of the Stoner genre. Josh was in charge of the guitars and production of the album. (Photo: ultimate-guitar.com) 2. In 1992 the band released their second album "Blues for the Red Sun" which was less successful than the first album but is today considered one of the most influential albums in the stoner rock genre. 3. In 1994 the band released their third album "Welcome to Sky Valley" through the big label Elektra Records which was a much bigger success than the previous two albums. 4. In 1995 the band released their fourth and final album called "... And the Circus Leaves Town". The album was a bit of a success and marked the band's breakup. 5. In 1996, Josh formed the band "Queens of the Stone Age" as the leading character, lead guitarist, and singer, in fact in most of the band's albums the musicians change, and sometimes in the singing role different singers take over. The debut album bearing the band's name was released by the band in 1998, with Alfredo (Kyuss) on drums and Josh playing all the other roles on the album. 6. In 2000, Josh releases his second album, "Rated R". Compared to the first album released under an independent label, this album was released under the Interscope Records label. Unlike the previous album performed entirely by Josh and Alfredo, here Josh begins his collaborations with other artists and hosts a diverse battery of artists in various fields, most notably Mark Lanegan and with him: Dave Catching, Gene Trautmann, Barrett Martin, Mike Johnson, Rob Halford, and others. 7. In 2002 the band released their third album "Songs for the Deaf" with the band's three most famous singles "No One Knows", "Go with the Flow", and "First It Giveth". This time joins Langan on drums and Dave Grohl with Nick Oliveri on bass (as on previous albums). This album continues the band's success from the first album but brings it to the international arena and it breaks into other countries in the world and occupies good positions at the top black of the charts. 8. In 2005 Josh releases the album "Lullabies to Paralyze", the band's fourth. This album reaches number five on the Billboard 200 but this time apart from Josh and Langen joins guitarist Troy Van Leeuwen and drummer Joey Castillo. 9. In 2007 the band releases their fifth album called "Era Vulgaris" which Josh describes as tough and electronic as a construction site. The album reached number 14 on Billboard and here too Josh collaborates with many other artists such as: Alain Johannes, Julian Casablancas, Serrina Sims, Brody Dalle-Homme, and of course Langen. 10. In 2013, the sixth album "... Like Clockwork" is released, in which bassist Michael Shuman and guitarist and keyboardist Dean Fertita join/replace. Josh describes the album as a documentary of the transitions the band went through in the two years before the album. This is the band's first album that reached number one on the Billboard charts and nominated the band for three Grammy Awards. Three singles came out of the album: "My God Is the Sun", "I Sat by the Ocean" and "Smooth Sailing". 11. In 2017 the band's seventh and final album "Villains" was released and this is the band's first album that does not include guest artists but only the band itself. Josh decided that on this album he wanted to create music that would make people dance so he enlisted the role of the producer from none other than Mark Ronson (Uptown Funk for those unfamiliar). The album topped the charts and was also nominated for a Grammy. 12. Another and one of the most significant projects in the music scene in the US and in the world was The Desert Sessions. Old and rare recordings and accessories, with everything connected to a generator or played analogously. In each session, artists, writers, composers, and songwriters would connect instead. 12 different EPs were recorded from 1997 to 2019 in which various artists from many genres would come to the studio. , Playing and recording, including: Brantת Bjork, PJ Harvey, Jeordie White (aka Twiggy Ramirez), Dave Catching, Nick Oliveri, Mark Lanegan, John McBain, Ben Shepherd, Josh Freese, and many others 13. In 1998 Josh together with guitarist and singer Jesse Hughes formed the band "Eagles Of Death Metal", the two are the only regular musicians in the band that usually changes mainly on tour, Josh does not participate in the band's tours but only for album recordings. In 2004, the band's debut album "Peace, Love, Death Metal" is released, which despite its name and despite the name of the band does not belong to the Death Metal genre at all. (Photo: Chapman Baehler) 14. In 2005 the band's second album "Death by Sexy" is released. The album features influences from the "Rolling Stones", "Motley Crue" and "Loverboy". Similar to the first album, this album is also a success among rockers. 15. In 2008 came out the third album "Heart On" which had moderate success and reached the 50th and 20th places on the Billboard and Top Rock charts. 16. In 2015 came out the fourth and final album to date "Zipper Down", one of the most famous songs from the album is a cover of the song "Save a Prayer" by the band "Duran Duran". 17. In 2009, the supergroup's debut album bearing the band's name "Them Crooked Vultures" was released. This supergroup was formed by Josh, and Dave from the "Foo Fighters" and "Led Zeppelin's" bassist John Paul Jones. The album reached number 12 on the Billboard charts and won the 2011 Grammy Award for "Best Hard Rock Performance". 18. In 2023, 6 years after their previous album and with the same lineup, the band releases their eighth album "In Times New Roman...". Josh said that the album sat on the shelf for a year and a half until he had the courage and experiences to write lyrics and release the album in its entirety. Listen to "In Times New Roman..." on Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

On May 17, 1969, The Who's Tommy's album was released. A perfect concept album, a masterpiece that is also considered the first rock opera in the history of music. Most of the material for the album was written by the band's guitarist Pete Townshend with the help of bassist John Entwistle who wrote two tracks and drummer Keith Moon who contributed one track. The first seeds for this masterpiece were sown somewhere in 1966 on the album "A Quick One", the band's second album. The theme song on the same album, "A Quick One, While He's Away", is a mini-epic that spans over 9 minutes and tells a short story. The Who will later develop this idea into a complete rock opera that spans an entire album. This would first happen with "Tommy" in 1969 and later also with the masterpiece "Quadrophenia" in 1973. Townshend's genius with "Tommy", is actually in the primacy. The connection between two genres, almost opposites, which previously could not have been thought to be possible to unite together. The first, the extroverted, dramatic and bombastic "opera" genre, based on a complex plot story, and the second, the simple and basic "rock and roll", which manages to summarize an entire story and distill it into a few minutes. This is the first time that a rock work has been written based on a complete plot story and a central character built just like an opera. Townshend was able to take all the elements that exist in opera, and apply and assimilate them into rock and roll. In this way, "Tommy" opens up with "Overture" - an introductory section that includes all the melodies we will meet later in the story, "Underture" - which summarizes the first half of the pieces and includes musical elements that have already been heard, and a concluding section a kind of "Medley" that sums all up. The album also includes musical pieces that are repeated in minor changes, just like in the creation of classical music. But this legendary epic not only created a match between different and contrasting styles of music, but also between Townshend's two great loves - music and literature (Townshend is a "bookworm" that has devoured mythology and philosophy books, among other things). In 1975, the album became a feature film directed by Ken Russell. The film featured stars like: Eric Clapton, Elton John, Tina Turner, Jack Nicholson, Oliver Reed, and of course the singer Roger Daltrey who plays the role of Tommy and more. (Photo: Barrie Wentzell) And now for the plot story behind the musical piece. Tommy is a deaf-mute-blind boy, a pinball game wizard, whose father, Captain Walker, is declared missing and is believed to have been killed during World War I (an idea that would be used 10 years later on the album "The Wall"?). Captain Walker returns home, surprisingly, after many years, on New Year's Eve 1921, and discovers that his wife, Tommy's mother, has found a lover. In a fight between the father and the lover, the father, Captain Walker, was murdered as Tommy witnesses everything. The lover and mother convince Tommy that he has not seen or heard anything and influence him not to say anything about what happened. Following the trauma, Tommy becomes psychosomatically deaf-mute-blind. Over the years Tommy grows up and experiences abuse from family and others, with no ability to stop them or respond. Despite all this, Tommy develops a rare talent in the "pinball" game, becomes a wizard in the game, and accumulates a devout fan base, just like a rock star (again "The Wall"?). Later in the plot, a doctor presents Tommy with a mirror as part of his healing process. In a moment of frustration, Tommy's mother shatters the mirror, after Tommy does not respond to her cries. The experience of smashing the mirror causes Tommy to heal abruptly. Tommy's miraculous recovery and the fact that he's become a pinball wizard with a fan base is causing him a growing complex, he believes he has special powers. Tommy who becomes a real guru - a cult leader, sets up camp with his fan base and tries to lead them "to redemption". However, his fans' dissatisfaction with their situation causes them to rebel against him and destroy the camp. As if in a vicious circle and in response to what is happening, Tommy is locked up again within his detached world. So now take 74 minutes and listen to this wonderful work !!! Spotify, Apple Music "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website

He is one of the most important artists in the alternative and industrial genres, a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer who influenced generations of musicians — meet the mastermind behind "Nine Inch Nails", Trent Reznor. (Photo: Gilbert Florens) = Born on May 17, 1965, in "Mercer", Pennsylvania, Trent Reznor is one of the most groundbreaking and influential musicians in alternative and industrial rock history. = Reznor showed musical talent from a young age, mastering piano, saxophone, and tuba during his high school years. = During high school, he joined the local band "Option 30", performing three shows a week. After a year in college, he dropped out to pursue music full-time and moved to "Cleveland", Ohio. = Reznor played multiple instruments in several local bands, recorded independently, and performed live extensively in his early years. = He eventually got a job at "Right Track Studio" in Cleveland, working as an assistant engineer and janitor. There, he began recording his own demos during studio downtime. (Photo: Nine Inch Nails) = Frustrated by not finding a band that could execute his vision, he was inspired by "Prince" and decided to play all instruments (except drums) himself for his demos. He sent them to multiple labels before signing with "TVT Records". = In 1988, Reznor founded the industrial rock band "Nine Inch Nails", where he became the lead vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and sole creative force. = In 1989, he released "Nine Inch Nails'" debut and first studio album, "Pretty Hate Machine", an industrial rock milestone. It eventually went Platinum and became one of the first independently released albums to do so. = "Pretty Hate Machine" was critically acclaimed for its blend of electronic, industrial, and synth-pop sounds with deeply personal and dark lyrical themes. = This album established Reznor as a rising force in music, laying the groundwork for the evolution of industrial rock into the mainstream. = With "Nine Inch Nails", Reznor fused electronic, industrial, and alternative rock into a genre-defying sound that influenced an entire generation. = The band gained a reputation for raw, high-intensity live shows, with Reznor obsessively crafting every aspect of their stage production. = Reznor wrote, performed, and produced all material for the band's second album, "The Downward Spiral", released in 1994. It debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 and became one of the most iconic alternative albums of the decade. = That album includes the iconic tracks "Closer", "Hurt", and "March of the Pigs", and it solidified Reznor as a generational voice of angst and pain. = Reznor has said that “Hurt” was written during a period of deep depression and self-loathing — it later gained even more fame when Johnny Cash covered it in 2002. = In 1995 Reznor toured with David Bowie. it was a major artistic milestone for him. = In 1999, Reznor released "Nine Inch Nails'" third studio double album, "The Fragile". Despite mixed reviews at first, it debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and is now considered a cult masterpiece. = The recording of The "Fragile" took over two years, included hundreds of takes, and was described by Reznor as a spiritual and psychological purge. = The fifth studio album, "Year Zero", was released in 2007 and accompanied by an alternate reality game. It peaked at #2 on Billboard and was praised for its dystopian concept and political critique. = In 2018, "Nine Inch Nails" released their ninth studio album, "Bad Witch", completing a trilogy following their two previous EPs "Not the Actual Events" (2016) and "Add Violence" (2017). Reznor plays saxophone on the album which was influenced by David Bowie's final studio album "Blackstar". = By 2020 he has released 11 studio albums with "Nine Inch Nails", the most recent being Ghosts VI: Locusts (2020). = "Nine Inch Nails" has received two Grammy Awards and several nominations. Their discography is consistently listed among the most important in alternative rock history. = Reznor has directed or co-directed many of the band's music videos, which often pushed creative and provocative boundaries in visual storytelling. (Photo: frank micelotta) = In 1994, he produced "Marilyn Manson’s" debut album, "Portrait of an American Family", launching Manson’s controversial and successful career. = In 2010, Reznor began scoring films alongside Atticus Ross. Their first project was "The Social Network", for which they won the Academy Award for Best Original Score. (Photo: GQ) = The Reznor-Ross duo continued their successful collaboration with scores for "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" (2011) and "Gone Girl" (2014), both directed by David Fincher. = In 2020, they composed the score for Pixar's animated film "Soul", blending electronic and jazz styles. The score won the Academy Award for Best Original Score, shared with jazz musician Jon Batiste. = By 2025 The Reznor-Ross duo released 19 Scores and soundtrack albums including "Tron: Ares", "The Gorge" and "After the Hunt". = Reznor is also known for being a fierce advocate for artist rights, criticizing streaming services and industry models that exploit musicians. = In 2020, "Nine Inch Nails" was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, acknowledging the band’s lasting influence and innovation. = Reznor’s influence spans multiple genres and industries. He is recognized not just for his musical output, but for helping redefine the sound and structure of modern rock and industrial music. = His ability to combine emotional intensity, sonic experimentation, and technical mastery makes him one of the most important artists of the modern era. "Face/Off" - Israel's Rock Blog Follow us on Facebook / Instagram or Subscribe to our website