The Crawl: Black Friday
+ The Big Issue is a British street newspaper sold by homeless people, aiding in their income. It was to them that Bob Dylan chose to grant an interview discussing his Christmas In The Heart album. Dylan revealed that Christmas was as big part of boyhood life to him as it was to people around the world. When asked why he thought Christmas music was so enduring, Dylan replied:
"Maybe because it's so worldwide and everybody can relate to it in their own way."
True dat! Dylan also details his ideal holiday dinner: 'roast turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy, collard greens and all the trimmings.' Bob Dylan—he's just like us! [Reuters]
+ Muse may have been a mere opening act for U2 here in the U.S., but elsewhere, they're BOTH stadium acts. Given the implied association between the two bands after this year's U2 tour, it's little surprise that the recent confirmation that U2 would headline a night at Glastonbury 2010 has led to speculation that Muse might hold the top slot one of the other two nights. Bassist Chris Wostenholme is saying little to dispel the rumors:
"I think we'll be busy all summer, it will be a combination of stadiums and some headline festival slots."
You don't say. [NME]
+ Portland, Oregon's The Thermals may have only just released their latest album—Now We Can See—in April, but they've already announced a release date for their next album. Start planning your Thermals listening parties—September 7 is the official release date for their next Kill Rock Stars release. Now, they just have to make the album. Luckily, they're soon heading into Portland's Jackpot Studios with Death Cab For Cutie member Chris Walla. [Pitchfork]
+ Supergroups can often be predictable, both in membership and sound. But were you expecting a partnership between members of Coldplay, Mew and A-Ha? Thought not, but that's what you'll get with Apparatjik. For now, the band is keeping matters close to its chest—though some previews can be found on their official site. [Consequence Of Sound]
+ Want Weezer to play at your campus? Well, T-Mobile does. So much so that they've created a contest—The T-Mobile Motorola CLIQ Challenge—to see which college campus wants them the most. But hurry, the contest ends Nov. 30. Enter here.
+ Ronnie James Dio has contracted stomach cancer, which has resulted in the obvious cancellation of his European tour. Dio felt unwell last week, and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he was diagnosed. Dio's wife Wendy has been posting updates on the 67 (!) year-old's official site:
"Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic. After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans.
Thanks to all the friends and fans around the world that have sent well wishes. This has really helped to keep his spirit up.
Long Live Rock and Roll, Long Live Ronnie James Dio"
Get well soon, Dio... metal needs you. [BBC]
