Iron Maiden got a hell of a scare in France. Their show was interrupted by a power outage — straight out of a horror movie, if it wasn’t a horror band’s show, then it’s just a documentary. The band, of course, dropped a statement. Couldn’t skip the drama. Almost “Running Free” without the drums.
Meanwhile, the touring machine keeps chugging along. AC/DC is hitting the road with some themed pop-up shops promising food and exclusive merch. If Angus Young signs a guitar for you, that sandwich already paid for itself. Mötley Crüe is also out there, celebrating 20 years of the “Carnival of Sins” tour and 45 years as a band. Two anniversaries, one convenient excuse to tour the world again.
And speaking of touring, Turnstile announced a 16-date North American tour with a guest list that makes any festival look modest. Clipping., Ceremony, Thundercat, Slayyyter, Vince Staples, Yves Tumor — that’s a whole lot of people. Looks more like a sticker collection than a line-up. Pitchfork, always sharp, already figured it out: “your favorite artist is probably opening for Turnstile.” It’s like going to a barbecue where the host is just a minor detail.
On the tribute front, Tame Impala covered “Hummer” by Smashing Pumpkins. It’ll be on a tribute album that promises to both annoy purists and delight the curious. And there’s more: Palaye Royale, YONAKA and others are set to appear on this same tribute. Looks like Smashing Pumpkins are more alive than ever, even if it’s through other people’s voices.
But the biggest WTF moment of the week is this: Brandon Flowers, from The Killers, is making a pivot to country music. Nashville, Charlie McCoy, harmonica. Sounds like the guy got tired of being Mr. Brightside and decided to become a melancholic cowboy. Rolling Stone Brazil broke the news, and all we can think is: what in the hell is happening to rock?
While Wally, formerly of CPM 22, is launching Trompas with an EP of sludge, stoner, and grunge called “Anxiety” – you know, good old noise – The Killers’ frontman is off to the ranch. It’s proof that, in the end, everyone has a country phase. But this one, nobody saw coming.