Rock 'n' Roll Grad School

Let's just take a minute to appreciate and savor the fact that Fishbone are still around and still doing what they do best. And if the band itself isn't a treasure, they've got a new record out this week. Stockholm Syndrome is classic Fishbone with a modern sound. Yes, it's that good.

For tour dates and to get a copy of the record, check out the band's website.

Alan Niven has seen a lot. As manager for Guns n Roses as they made their ascendancy into music superstardom, Alan saw it all. And in his book, "Sound n Fury," he tells it all.

"Sound n Fury" is available June 24th wherever you get your books.

You may not know the name, but you know his sound. From his work as a member of Lipps, Inc, to producing with Prince to bands like Fine Young Cannibals and Big Head Todd and the Monsters, David Z has created a sound that, literally, everyone has danced to. 

For more information on David and his fascinating career, check out his website.

We talked with guitarist Jock Bartley when Firefall released their first "Friends & Family," and he's back to talk Vol 2. And, sure we talk about the record, but there's so much more to discuss. 

"Friends and Family, Vol 2" is available right now. For more information, check out Firefall's website.

Gary Graff has done it again. With a cadre of writers, Gary pulled together a list of 501 albums that he feels are the most indicative of the 1980s. (We talked with Gary before about his list of albums of the 90s.) And, while we don't get as heated as we did then, there is still some lively debate to go around- and that's the point.

501 Essential Albums of the '80s: The Music Fan's Definitive Guide is available right now wherever you get your books.

In the 1960's Bob Dylan changed the world. How? And in what ways are we still dealing with the monumental changes that the future Noble prize winner kicked off? Sean Egan has written a new book about Dylan called "Decade of Dissent- How 1960's Bob Dylan Changed the World." It's a fascinating look at the creation and evolution of one of the world's most important artists. The book is available for pre-order, it comes out May 20th.

Monique Powell and her band Save Ferris are back out on the road. (When are they not?) And on top of that, they have a new single, "Get Dancing," which, on top of being a fun song is good life advice.

To find out when they are playing near you, check out their website.

Toby Sebastian is a multi-hyphenate artist. And with his new album, he adds another chapter to an already impressive body of work. Yeah, he's an actor, but this is all about his talent as a singer and a songwriter.

"Eyes Light Up" is available right now. For more information check out Toby's website.

You may know Peter Holsapple from his work with the great db's. Or you know him from his work with R.E.M.. Or you know him from his really great and smart songwriting. In case you don't, he's got a new record out, so you can get to know him. The Face of 68, is available right now wherever you get your records. 

For more information, you can follow Peter on Instagram.

Musician Talia Keys knows of which they speak. As a fierce advocate for people buying music before streaming it, their new album, From the Ashes is available on vinyl for over a month before streaming. The idea of supporting musicians shouldn't seem revolutionary, but, it kind of is.

To get your own copy of From the Ashes, check out their website.