Full Album Stream On FUSE.tv!

'Phoenix' is the featured album on FUSE.tv's 'The Worm'! You can stream the entire album right now before it is released in the US next Tuesday and even discuss the band and album with other FUSE users in their dedicated forum! Click here to check it out!

FYE Signed Booklet Deal!

If you are from the US and have still yet to order your copy of Phoenix, then you should highly consider doing so from FYE! As well as selling the album for a mere $9.99, the first 100 copies sold will receive a signed booklet as well! Well worth checking out! Click here to buy a copy now.

FYE only ships to US postal addresses, so non-US fans will be unable to participate in this deal I'm afraid!

DJ Rossstar's Punk Rock Show Pictures!

Thanks to the lovely Lorna at MFZB.com for telling me about this a while back (I just forgot to post it!). DJ Rossstar has updated his Buzznet Photo Page with some shots of Ali, Ben and Ed while they were being interviewed on Idobi Radio at the start of July. Click here to check them out!

And if you still haven't heard the full 45 minute interview, you can download it from here courtesy of Ty!

ICON Updated Press Release!

US label ICON Mes have updated their press release for Zebrahead that gets circulated to various radio/tv stations, magazines and online sites. You can read it in full below:

Many bands make an entrance into a particular scene, make a statement, and are suddenly yesterday's has-beens after an album or two. But after a dozen years, half a dozen albums, scores of countries, countless miles, a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance for their blistering cover of Metallica's "Enter Sandman and immeasurable faces rocked, it's not entirely surprising that Orange County-based rock act Zebrahead have been able to not only maintain a distinct relevancy to the core fan base that grew up with the act, it's also been able to consistently break new ground and appeal to newer generations of audiences.

"What's strange is that kids are getting younger and younger every time we tour," says Zebrahead vocalist Ali Tabatabaee. "I really don't know where they hear us or where they get our music from, but it truly is inspiring for us to keep writing and making music to see these kids showing up to the show and being such hardcore fans. I can't explain it. We're really fortunate."

So, what's the big secret to such great fortune? Credit the quintet's truly innovative and ingenious meld of punk, hip-hop and alternative rock, which crosses over musical bounds, not to mention songwriting that's infallibly infectious. When Zebrahead first broke ground, erupting into the Southern California rock scene in the mid-'90s, the act was instantly recognized as a pioneer of a hybridized genre that, to this day, has not only lasted, but continues to flourish both domestically and internationally. And with members Ali Tabatabaee, Greg Bergdorf (guitar), Matty Lewis (vocals/guitar), Ben Osmundson (bass) and Ed Udhus (drums) fully engaged in their craft, Zebrahead's continued drive has no chance of letting down anytime soon.

Enter Phoenix, the latest and most focused example of Zebrahead's genre-bending sound. It's the band's most comprehensive album to date, sporting 16 tracks, and, according to Tabatabaee is also the band's most well rounded collection and second release on Icon Music.

"We are very happy that we are with ICON, they have always been supportive of us and have allowed us to maintain our artistic integrity, they are very cool people who have shown that they truly believe in us and in our music." Says Tabatabaee

After completing over a year-and-a-half of constant touring on its previous release, 2006's Broadcast to the World, the act settled down in its Orange County rehearsal studio to begin writing sessions. Zebrahead eventually constructed Phoenix over the course of a few months, enlisting the efforts of renowned producers Howard Benson (Daughtry, My Chemical Romance, P.O.D.) and Cameron Webb (Social Distortion, Motorhead).

"We're old friends with Howard," says Tabatabaee of Benson, who produced the song "Hell Yeah." "He actually did our first two albums and he helped get us signed back in the day. He had some free time and he's part of the family so we were really excited to get to work with him again. We grabbed a song and recorded with him and that was a really cool experience, just to see him after ten years, and work with him again after everybody's grown up."

Webb is also a Zebrahead production veteran, having worked with the band on both 2003's MFZB and Broadcast to the World. "He's an Orange County guy and a good friend of ours," says Tabatabaee. "He's got a great ear to make the music really rock. We were fortunate to work with him as well. And luckily it wasn't an issue to work with both producers. And I think the album actually benefited from it."

The resulting release is Zebrahead's best blend of pop elements, tripped-out landscapes and foundation-laying heaviness. Phoenix also finds the act touching upon myriad issues amongst the track listing. "Mainly we tend to write about stuff that we're going through or people who are close to us are going through," says Tabatabaee. "A few of the songs are just about relationships that have gone bad or relationships that you realize aren't the best for you, but you stay in them anyways — like that's what 'Mental Health' is all about. And 'Sorry But Your Friends Are Hot' is a song about cheating."

However, Tabatabaee is quick to point that getting overly specific about the band's songwriting may dilute the experience of lyrical interpretation and listener engagement. "I remember when I was growing up, I used to like to listen to songs and try and kind of relate them to my own life, and try to see how I understood it," he says. "And I kind of try to shy away from saying, 'this song is exactly about this' because it kind of alienates people in some ways, because what if that's not what it meant to you when you were listening to it? That kind of blows that feeling that the song provides or gives you."

As for the song titles, they're also some of the best ideas the band's assembled, ranging from "Morse Code for Suckers" and "Two Wrongs Don't Make a Right but Three Rights Make a Left" to "Mike Dexter is a God, Mike Dexter is a Role Model, Mike Dexter is an A**hole."

On the contrary, Phoenix is a simple word, yet has a striking story behind it, about a band that has persevered through its career, even in periods of adversity. "We've gone through a lot these past few years and I think that this album really shines," says Tabatabaee. "I think it's the best album we've made so far, and to go through all the things we've gone through, and be able to make your best album, says a lot about the work ethic and learning how to not only be friends, but business partners and artists together, so it was kind of appropriate in that sense. Creating something out of what could've possibly have been the end of the band a few years ago, and making your best album kind of sums it up with that title."

The cover artwork — which seamlessly melds with the album's title — was designed by Shawn Harris of The Matches. In fact, according to Tabatabaee, the entire album process was a seamless affair. "For me, personally, this album was probably, since our first album, the easiest album to make in the way of being inspired to make it and having the songs turn out the way you wanted."

With the imminent release of Phoenix, Tabatabaee is able to reflect on the longevity of his band and its continued relevancy to audiences young and old. "Kids are appreciating the fact that we're sticking to our roots and really just trying to make good music. We'd like to thank the fans for allowing us to have such a long career. If it wasn't for them, we'd be flipping burgers somewhere. Fortunately, we get paid to do what we love, so we want to thank them a lot for that."

And as for Phoenix, Tabatabaee adds, "We can't wait for the rest of the world to listen to it and see what they think. It'll have something for everyone. And hopefully people will have open minds and will be able to accept it and appreciate it for what it is. We just didn't want to make the same album again, you know?"

First Look At The Japanese Reissues!

As some of you may be aware, on the same day that 'Phoenix' hit the shops in Japan, Zebrahead's Japanese label also made cheaper priced reissues of the old albums available to fans. A very smart move on their part, as not only does it allow new fans to experience old Zebrahead, it also adds to total sales numbers for these album increasing Zebrahead's chances of getting more gold records over there!

Before the release of these reissues, several online sites selling the new editions simply stated that the albums had a "special zebra sleeve". It's not been until now that non Japanese fans have been able to take a look at what exactly the new edition looks like, so below is an image of the 'Playmate Of The Year' reissue.


These sleeves are only available with the first pressing versions of the reissue albums, as those pressed after will come in the standard case only. If you're interested in getting yourself one of these then get checking the import sites or perhaps eBay, but as with the Be@rbrick Edition of 'Phoenix', these first pressing were prone to selling out in most places straight away.

Rock Sound Phoenix Advert!

A slightly different variation (now a half page size!) of the current SPV Phoenix advert that appears in the current issue of Kerrang! Magazine (see here) is also doing the rounds in this month's Rock Sound Magazine! You can check out a scan of the full page it features on below! (Click for full size).


Thanks to Lindsay at MFZB.com for the heads up on this!

AbsolutePunk Full Album Stream!

Over the next week, AbsolutePunk.net will be streaming the upcoming Zebrahead album 'Phoenix', in full. This 'ABSOLUTExclusive' will work in several installments - today sees the start of the exclusive with the first two tracks off the album, titled "HMP" and "Hell Yeah!" going up for streaming. Check out the songs by heading over to the Zebrahead AbsolutePunk.net Profile and keep checking back for the rest of the songs. 'Phoenix' hits stores nationwide in the US on August 5th, so make sure you pick up your copy!

European Release Delayed!

Several adverts for Phoenix in UK magazines (such as the recent Kerrang! magazine advert) have stated that the European release of Phoenix will be on the 11th August - this of course contradicts earlier information that the release in Europe is slated for the 4th August.

To add further confusion some UK specialist sites such as Play.com have shown a different tracklist order with some tracks seemingly being renamed. There is certainly confusion as to what exactly is happening with the European version of Phoenix to say the least.

Luckily the band have updated their official website with the following statement to explain exactly what is going on. You can check it out below:

"So the album is coming out August 11th now in the UK and Europe. But ...guess what .........there is a good reason and you will be happy!!....Our label in UK/Europe has decided to include the "Broadcast the the World the EFFing DVD" for FREE with the new album. Yes...just like the USA label the new "Phoenix" CD with come in a 2 CD package that contains the DVD for FREE!...get that stuff...your grandma will love it!

and yes...rumor going around that song titles and order will be different...that is a NO..they will be the same....so cool beans...and

"I just wanna Dance"- Name that movie??

MFZB"

So there you go! Delayed by a week (hey it could be worse!) but a free DVD bundled in with the album! Expect coverage of both the US and European releases here on PFH.

Mine Came In Too!

And with some cheap photoshopping it kinda stands out....kinda

DROPS Magazine Cover Feature!

As you can see to the left, Zebrahead has made the front cover of DROPS Magazine in Japan!

DROPS is a free magazine that is printed and distributed by Japanese company Shinseido. The Zebrahead issue started circulation on the 20th of July and will be the current issue until next month. Hopefully expect a scan of the magazine and of Zebrahead's feature in it, in the not too distant future!

'Phoenix' Advert In Kerrang! Magazine

Zebrahead's new album 'Phoenix' has its own advert in this week's Kerrang! Magazine, below is a picture of the ad itself (click for larger image), expect a high quality scan very soon!

Matty's Q&A Session!

Firstly a big thanks to everyone who submitted questions and of course thanks to Matty himself for taking time out of his schedule to do this! Below is the complete Q&A!

Zebrahead Related:

Q. What inspires you when it comes to writing lyrics for songs? (e.g. what inspired you while writing "Phoenix"?)
A. I like to write about things that I know and that I can relate to. Sometimes situations that have happened in my past or someone else’s past, inspire me and makes me want to write about that.

Q. When it comes to recording, what's the biggest thing you've learned over the years?
A. Always be prepared. Have all your lyrics written and be sure to know your songs so it doesn’t sound like you’re reading it off of a paper…oh and bring stuff to do while the other guys are recording.

Q. Have SEGA contacted you regarding future Sonic game soundtracks?
A. Nope, not as of yet. Who knows if they’ll even make another Sonic game??

Q. When is there going to be a new Fanclub CD?
A. Hmmm, good question…probably soon? J

Q. Best and worst thing about being in a band?
A. BEST: Being on stage and listening to your finished product (cd). WORST: Being away from family.

Q. Will there be any other music videos for songs off 'Phoenix'? Or perhaps for a song off the 'Not The New Album EP'?
A. There will probably be another video for at least one more song…but I’m not sure which one that would be.

Q. Any idea what song will be your next single?
A. Nope

Q. In your opinion how many years/albums are left in Zebrahead?
A. 71 1/3

Q. Does Zebrahead have plans on recording any Jank 1000 stuff?
A. Nope, we’re Zebrahead after all.

Q. Any plans for another "Waste Of…" B-sides album?
A. We’ll have to wait and see huh?…nothing in the works

Q. Will you ever sing either version of 'His World' live?
A. Most likely 100%-ly nope probably maybe not.

Q. If you had the ability to relive your Zebrahead career knowing everything you know now, would you do it? What would you change (if anything)?
A. Of course I would. I would probably change my boxers more often.

Q. Do you and Ali ever write each others lyrics, or only your own?
A. No, but for the record I AM the “assistant rapper”…just as Ali is the “assistant singer”. We like titles.

Q. How much of the guitars do write?
A. I write riffs here and there and do most rythyms. We actually do write as a band though, so we’re all equal when it comes to the writing process.

Q. Could you beat Ben at drums?
A. Oh yeah…I suck, but he sucks worse.

Q. You recently got some great exposure from doing songs for both WWE and Sonic The Hedgehog, are there any other similar opportunities that have been presented to you for the not too distant future?
A. Our publicist is constantly working on getting us more exposure. I can’t wait to do the music for some porn!

Q. Who in the band is the best at Guitar Hero?
A. Ben. He has it at home and has beaten it several times.

Q. Do you enjoy playing live or are you more at home in a studio?
A. I like playing in general. Sure it’s better to play in front of people, but sometimes it’s rad to record it and listen to the finished product. So to answer your question..i just like playing!

Q. In a Guitar Battle, who would win you or Greg?
A. Are you kidding me? Greg shreds!…BUT if we were actually “battling”, I would kick his ass because my guitars are lighter and I can swing them faster.

Q. Do any fans annoy you?
A. Only the girl fans that DON’T throw their bras onstage.

Q. Any regrets, missed opportunities or things that might've been?
A. I wish I was a little bit taller…I wish I was a baller…I wish I had a girl who looked good I would call her…I wish I had a rabbit in a hat with a bat and a ’64 Impala…

Q. Were/are you aware of your escalating popularity?
A. Stop spreading such lies!

Q. Favorite Zebrahead song?
A. I like “Back To Normal” and “Two Wrongs…” and “HMP”

Q. Favorite Zebrahead music video?
A. Mental Health

Q. If Zebrahead were to call it a day, what do you think you'd end up doing? Forming a new band? Going solo? Leave the music business altogether?
A. I would probably keep writing songs and see what happens…maybe become an action movie star?

Q. Will Zebrahead ever re-record older songs with you doing vocals?
A. Maybe on a live cd.

Q. Are you used to seeing yourself in magazines/on front covers? Or are you weirded out by that?
A. No…I was a male model for many many years before ZH, and my walls in my house are covered with my shots from all my catalogs and underwear ads I did.

Q. Due to replacing a cruicial member in the band did you feel immense pressure of having to live up to people's previous expectations of Zebrahead? Did you hate being compared to Justin all the time?
A. Who? I’m just here to party.

Q. Did fans ever end up calling you Justin back in the day? How did you respond to that? Were you annoyed or did you see it as a compliment (as they didn't realise the singer had changed?)
A. I think I was called Justin a couple times, but I just responded by speaking spanish. Would it be a compliment to you if I called you Phil? Huh Phil?? J

Q. On the recent Idobi Radio interview show (I know you weren't there!) some kid asked if we'd ever get to hear 'Rise Up' (from BTTW sessions) and Ben and Ed said they would put the song up for download the next day for fans to hear, but they never did? Can you ask them to put it up on the official site or something?
A. I can ask, but I think I have the only copy…on 8 Track.

Q. Will you be releasing any more iTunes EPs in the future with more b-side songs on?
A. Possibly

Phoenix Related:

Q. Is 'HMP' related to skateboarding in any way?
A. If you want it to be!

Q. How much Guitar Hero did you play while writing/recording Phoenix?
A. Because Greg and I slept at our studio, we played it almost every night, but had to stop because we started tripping balls because our eyes were so messed up…we thought the floor was moving.

Q. Will the European version of Phoenix see any kind of exclusive bonus track? Any word on what track(s) if so?
A. I don’t belive so.

Q. Will the 'European' version of Phoenix only be available in the UK?
A. No, it will be available in many countries throughout Europe!

Q. When did you start writing Phoenix?
A. Probably after our last tour for “BTTW”…or 1983…you pick!

Q. Which songs off the new album do you plan/look forward too singing live?
A. None…I look forward to hearing you guys singing them!

Q. Which songs will you probably not sing live?
A. Hmmm…we probably won’t sing ”Purple Rain”, “Working For The Weekend”, “I Can’t Fight This Feeling”, and we probably won’t sing “Wind Beneath My Wings” live…

Q. Did you like the cover art for Pheonix?
A. I do, but I feel bad that we had to set that guy on fire. I hope he made it.

Q. How long did it take to write 'We're Not A Cover Band...'? Who came up with the idea?
A. I came up with the idea because I thought it would be kinda funny to write a song using different song titles from that game.

Q. Seeing as 'We're Not A Cover Band, We're A Tribute Band' has so many Guitar Hero 3 references, what are the chances of that song (or ZH in general) being featured in Guitar Hero 4?
A. We’re working on it…but it’s not up to us. As for the song…who knows?

Q. How do you think Phoenix compares to your other albums?
A. Phoenix is our best album by far!

Q. Favorite song on Phoenix?
A. “Two Wrongs…” or “HMP”

Q. Was it hard to agree on the order of the tracklisting?
A. Naw, we just picked them out of a hat….?

Q. Will we ever get to hear the Howard Benson version of 'The Art Of Breaking Up', that didn't make the album?
A. Possibly. Hey does anyone remember the show “Benson”? Good stuff.

Q. What do you think of the Japanese Zebrahead Be@rbrick toy?
A. It’s pretty rad! Be@rry rad….

Q. How much drinking was consumed while you guys came up with some of the titles of the songs?
A. I’m still hungover…

Q. Any word on an Australian label/release date?
A. Not that I’m aware of…but I thought I might have heard something.

Q. Do you think Mental Health was a good choice of song for a single/music video?
A. Absolutely I do.

Q. Before BTTW was released lots of songs (in live or demo form) appeared in studio clips etc that never actually made the album. With Phoenix we never heard snippets of songs that didn't make the album, so with that in mind, were there many songs that were recorded that didn't make the album? Can you tell us anything about them, or perhaps if they'll make a new album/b-sides album?
A. Maybe…but keep in mind that they didn’t make the record for a reason. Maybe it’s a good thing no one will hear them!

Tour Related:

Q. When does Zebrahead intend to come back over to the UK?
A. November-ish?

Q. What's it like touring in general?
A. It’s really like being a pirate...instead of pirating, we’re rocking…oh and lot’s of “booty”….hahaha

Q. Chances of you going back to Massachusetts in or around the Boston area again?
A. Next time around…sorry.

Q. What's the weirdest thing you've ever seen on tour?
A. I saw Ed being chased out of a restroom by a tranny.

Q. Has there ever been a time when something a fan has said or done has taken you by surprise?
A. Yeah, some fan is typing this right now!

Q. Any plans/word on an Australian tour?
A. Hopefully soon

Q. Worst show you ever played?
A. University of Coloado….i stayed up too late and drank way too much. I think I actually threw up on the side of the stage during a song. My brother was there…he saw.

Q. Do you prefer touring smaller venues as a headline act or larger venues as a supporting act?
A. Headlining…only because we get more diet soda!

Q. Which show(s) (as Zebrahead or other) were you most nervous before going on stage?
A. I honestly don’t get nervous before shows. I do get nervous singing karaoke though.

Q. When do you reckon you'll next play Germany again?
A. November-ish

Q. How surprised are you by your success in Japan?
A. More like, stoked!

Q. Ever been given something strange by a fan while on tour?
A. Somebody gave me a pirate eye patch once.

Q. Seeing as you've played some acoustic solo gigs back in the day. Is it more nerve wracking to play solo or as a band?
A. Hmmm, when you play solo you always know when you’re going to fuck up. When you’re playing as a band, they don’t know when you’re gonna fuck up. Get it?

Other/Random:

Q. Can you dig it?
A. Shit yeah I can dig it.

Q. Maclin or Coffman?
A. Maclin. He’s more versatile.

Q. Favorite food and drink?
A. FOOD: Subway DRINK: Diet Pepsi

Q. In terms of music, do you have any guilty pleasures?
A. John Mayer

Q. What are your favourite bands?
A. Ben Folds, Van Halen, White Lion, Beach Boys, Guns ‘N Roses, Loverboy, and my all-time favorite Huey Lewis and the News.

Q. I have heard you need a new car! What kind of car do you drive?
A. 2005 Honda Civic 2-door…value package model. It’s bitchin.

Q. If you had to be gay with one celebrity who would it be?
A. Brooke Hogan….wait, you mean that’s a girl?

Q. Predict the score of the Mizzou vs. Nebraska game on October 4th.
A. MU 61 – NU 0

Q. What advice would you give to any bands starting out in the industry?
A. Go to school and get a real job!

Q. I heard you recently wrote a children's song... care to elaborate?
A. Yes. It rules. It’s about a pirate. It was for my sister and the 3rd grade class she teaches. It’s bitchin.

Q. What's the last gig/concert you went to?
A. Wow…I saw Zebrahead at the Greenfield festival in Switzerland last month!

Q. Do you still listen to your Jank 1000 music?
A. Only when it shuffles by on my iPod in my car.

Q. How's married life?
A. Good…I think…hold on, I’ll ask her. Yep.

Q. Favorite song ever?
A. “Girl Don’t Tell Me” – Beach Boys

Q. Favorite album ever?
A. “Appetite for Destruction” - Guns ‘N Roses, or “…And Justice For All” - Metallica

Q. Favorite movie ever?
A. “Revenge Of The Nerds”

Q. Do you prefer your hair as blonde or black?
A. Grey and in a pony tail.

Q. Pepsi Or Coke?
A. Pepsi

Q. CNN or FoxNews?
A. CNN

Q. Do you play golf?
A. I wouldn’t really call it “golfing”…instead I’d call it, “drunken hitting of little white ball with shiny stick in no particular direction”

Q. Last movie you saw?
A. “Definitely, Maybe”….Sure….I think so.

Q. Where did you get your 'I Love Old Cars' shirt?
A. By loving old cars too much…

Q. What the hell is "Matty's Riverbottom Band"?
A. Only the best band of evil critters that ever almost ruined Emmit Otter’s Christmas.

Q. Coffee or Redbull?
A. Redbull…you can’t mix vodka with coffee.

Q. Beer, Whisky or Vodka?
A. Beer

Q. Have you talked to your old band members in Jank 1000?
A. Yes

Q. Next CD you are anticipating the most?
A. Axl Rose’s “Chinese Democracy”…still waiting

Q. You used to be a teacher?
A. AND a student

Q. What's your favorite song to cover (if any)?
A. The “Revenge of the Nerds” rap, hands down.

Q. Strangest question you've ever been asked in an interview?
A. “Strangest question you’ve ever been asked in an interview?”

Q. Would you dye ur hair pink?
A. No.

Q. How many guitars do u have/or used?
A. I currently have 8…but have had about 5 others in my life

Q. Ever got anyone's autograph?
A. All the pilots from the Thunderbirds a long time ago.

Q. Thanks for bothering to answer all these questions Matty! Are there any closing comments/messages, you'd like to say to anyone reading?
A. Thanks for the questions guys! I hope to see you all on tour and feel free to ask me anymore questions you wish to possibly have answered. See you all soon!

MFZB.com's New Design!

MFZB.com a.k.a "The Zebrahead Community" has followed in the footsteps of several of the other key Zebrahead websites by being relaunched with a new Phoenix theme! If you're a Zebrahead fan and looking for a place to talk about all things Zebrahead with other like minded people then check out the boards there and start posting today!

Reminder: Upcoming Q&A Session With Matty!

Just a reminder that PFH has an upcoming Q&A session with Matty very soon. If there are any questions you would like him to answer, then please e-mail datadynedaz@gmail.com, or leave a comment before the end of today (22nd July)! Thanks to everyone who has already submitted, e-mailed or left a question over at MFZB.com! Expect the feature up in the not too distant future!

Behing The Scenes: "Mental Health" - Part 1!

Sony Japan's Staff Blog has posted the first installment of a behind the scenes diary of the making of the "Mental Health" music video. Click here for a rough translated version, not perfect but hey at least you can check out the pictures. Expect the next (and probably more exciting!) installment soon!

New Official Website!

Zebrahead have launched their brand official website, designed by Iris Concepts. Click here to check it out!

Also worth noting - you can now pre-order 'Phoenix' directly from Zebrahead themselves for $10 in the Official Zebrahead Store!

Be@rbrick Arrives!

Not really news here, but thought i would post a few pics of my Be@rbrick edition of Zebrahead's new album Phoenix that came through the post today all the way from Japan!

I had to cut a little seal to open it as I want the back signed and dont fancy taking the whole thing to the next Zebrahead show! If you have the change grab one of these!

Phoenix First Week Chart Positions!

You may remember being informed of how Phoenix had debuted at #6 on the daily ORICON charts. ORICON has now been updated with the first week sales, and Phoenix has landed at #10 in the international & domestic chart and at #1 in the international chart! Congrats to the guys!

More US Phoenix Tour Dates Added!

Zebrahead has added the following two dates to the US Phoenix Tour!

DATE...........VENUE...........LOCATION
5 Sep - The Slow Down - Omaha, Nebraska
15 Sep - Broadwalk - Sacramento, California

This means the most current up-to-date list for the tour is as follows:

DATE...........VENUE...........LOCATION
15 Aug - House of Blues - San Diego, California
16 Aug - House of Blues - Anaheim, California
20 Aug - Mesa Theatre - Grand Junction, Colorado
23 Aug - The Rave Bar - Milwaukee, Wisconsin
24 Aug - Peabody's - Cleveland, Ohio
26 Aug - Crocodile Rock - Allentown, Pennsylvania
27 Aug - Blender Theatre at Gramercy - New York, New York
28 Aug - The Stone Pony - Asbury Park, New Jersey
30 Aug - The Magic Stick - Detroit, Michigan
31 Aug - Diesel - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2 Sep - The Intersection - Grand Rapids, Michigan
3 Sep - Reggie's - Chicago, Illinois
5 Sep - The Slow Down - Omaha, Nebraska
6 Sep - The Bluebird - Denver, Colorado
8 Sep - Club Boom VA - Salt Lake City, Utah
9 Sep - The Big Easy - Boise, Idaho
11 Sep - The Boulevard - Spokane, Washington
15 Sep - Broadwalk - Sacramento, California
17 Sep - Karma Lounge - Ventura, California
18 Sep - The Knitting Factory - Los Angeles, California

If the guys don't appear to be coming to your city/state yet then stay tuned as more dates are being added as soon as they are confirmed!

Upcoming Q&A Session With Matty!

Got a question you'd like Matty to answer? Is it tour related? About the new album? Or one of those crazy random 'you-just-have-to-know-the-answer-to' type questions? Send an e-mail to datadynedaz@gmail.com (or leave a comment if you prefer) and watch this space for the upcoming Q&A feature!

Just like the Q&A session with Ben last November, Postcards From Hell will try its best to use all your questions but it may be the case that only a handful of those asked will be answered. However with that being said, still feel free to send as many questions as you like!

Spare The Air Video!

A video of Zebrahead performing "Get Back" at the Spare The Air Festival in Fullerton, CA a few years back, has been uploaded to YouTube. Quite a cool video so check it out below!



UPDATE: You can check out Justin performing "My Own Worst Enemy" with Lit at the same festival below!

Initial US Phoenix Tour Dates!

Zebrahead's MySpace has been updated with several dates for the forthcoming US Phoenix Tour taking place between 15th August and 18th September. Check out the known dates below, expect more soon!

DATE...........VENUE...........LOCATION
15 Aug - House of Blues - San Diego, California
16 Aug - House of Blues - Anaheim, California
20 Aug - Mesa Theatre - Grand Junction, Colorado
23 Aug - The Rave Bar - Milwaukee, Wisconsin
24 Aug - Peabody's - Cleveland, Ohio
26 Aug - Crocodile Rock - Allentown, Pennsylvania
27 Aug - Blender Theatre at Gramercy - New York, New York
28 Aug - The Stone Pony - Asbury Park, New Jersey
30 Aug - The Magic Stick - Detroit, Michigan
31 Aug - Diesel - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2 Sep - The Intersection - Grand Rapids, Michigan
3 Sep - Reggie's - Chicago, Illinois
6 Sep - The Bluebird - Denver, Colorado
8 Sep - Club Boom VA - Salt Lake City, Utah
9 Sep - The Big Easy - Boise, Idaho
11 Sep - The Boulevard - Spokane, Washington
17 Sep - Karma Lounge - Venture, California
18 Sep - The Knitting Factory - Los Angeles, California

Phoenix First Day Sales!

According to ORICON (the Japanese equivilent of the Billboard chart), Zebrahead's "Phoenix" has shot straight in at number 6 after a single day of being on sale! Great news for the guys! Expect more updates on how Phoenix is doing in Japan in the future!

Thanks to Yuuki for the heads up!

Download: Idobi Radio Interview Audio!

Big thank you to Ty from MFZB.com who was awesome enough to rip and upload the entire 45 minute DJ Rossstar interview that took place literally a few hours ago with Ben, Ali and Ed! Anyone who couldn't catch it, or perhaps wants to listen once again, can download the whole thing in mp3 format from here!

Just The Preview

Zebrahead have added a preview of yet another track from their new album "Phoenix" to their MySpace Profile. Click here to head there now and listen to "Just The Tip"!

Reminder: On Idobi Radio Tonight!

Just a reminder - Zebrahead are on DJ Rossstar's Punk Rock Show on Idobi Radio tonight with Secondhand Serenade! This is an hour long feature that starts at 7pm PST.

You can listen in live by visiting Idobi Radio's Website, and just like last time they were on, you can submit questions for the band to DJ Rossstar via one of the methods below:

E-mail in advance - djrossstar@yahoo.com
AIM during the show - DJRossstar08
Phone in during the show - (818) 641-1605


If anyone can hook us up with an audio rip let me know! (datadynedaz@gmail.com) You'll get full credit for it of course! If we are unable to provide an audio rip then expect a video of the show to appear on DJ Rossstar's Official MySpace in the coming days!

(FYI 7pm-8pm PST = 8pm-9pm MST/9pm-10pm CST/10pm-11pm EST/3am - 4am GMT)

US Release Party Shows!

In the latest Reverbnation E-mail sent out by Zebrahead, two US Release shows have been announced by the guys. They are as follows:

August 15th 2008 - House Of Blues - San Diego, CA
August 16th 2008 - House Of Blues - Anaheim, CA

Anyone in the US but not in the CA area shouldn't worry as a US tour following these two shows has already been hinted at: "I smell a USA tour happening right after the 2 CD RELEASE SHOWS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!!!!"

Stay tuned!

Rocking Out INROCK Magazine!

As previously mentioned Zebrahead are the cover stars of the August issue (#296) of INROCK Magazine (which goes on sale 15th July in Japan)! As well as appearing on the cover, several pages are dedicated to the guys to promote the album and build hype for the forthcoming Summer Sonic '08 festival!

Details of the ongoing promotional "Zebrahead SAIKO Campaign" (collective name for the Porter Bags, Be@rbricks, in-store meet and greets and god knows whatever else Sony Japan has up its sleeve to push the album!) as well as details of upcoming special items such as Zebrahead Calenders (they stole your idea Shell-O!) are also featured in the magazine.

You can check out a sneak peak of a double page spread of the magazine below, including a full band shot taken at Peterborough's Met Lounge venue last month (how glamorous!)


Hopefully expect some scans when this issue lands later on this month!

TOWER Records Love Zebrahead!

As if featuring the guys on the front cover of the July issue of their free magazine "TOWER" wasn't enough (see left), TOWER Records Japan (think HMV) has teamed up with Zebrahead and Sony Music Japan to organize a "Zebrahead handshake" day! "What exactly is a Zebrahead handshake day?!" you may be wondering... well the event taking place on August 13th at 7:30pm local time at Shinjuku's TOWER Records store is essentially a meet and greet for fans.

Full details of the event (such as whether there will be any in-store performance etc) are still unknown at this point. The only confirmed details are that tickets are very limited and seem to only be obtainable if you buy a copy of Phoenix from either the TOWER Records store in Shinbuya or Shinjuku during the next few days!

With all these various promotional items and events, it seems like you'd be lucky to find a copy of the album on the shelves over there at all! Stay tuned for more details as we get them!

Flight Of The Phoenix!

It's official! Zebrahead's new album "Phoenix" is finally on sale to the general public in Japan! (Like you didn't know!). This is the first new physical Zebrahead release in over two years! While those of us in the west may be passing the time with Politics, Mental Health and Photographs, Japan is able to occupy themselves with a total of 18 new Zebrahead tracks including the exclusive tracks 'Art Of Breaking Up' and 'We're Not A Cover Band, We're A Tribute Band'.

As with any band, a new album release is always an exciting time so expect lots of reviews, features and of course breaking news on Zebrahead to pop up right here on PFH over this period!

If you've yet to order (or pre-order) a copy of the new album, then please consider doing so! Buying the album helps ensure Zebrahead can keep putting out fantastic music in the future. For anyone looking to get the Japan exclusive tracks, you might want to consider importing the Japanese Edition from CDJapan or YesAsia... or of course you could try you luck with eBay!

Here's hoping the album's sales do the guys proud!

Not The New Album EP Hits iTunes!

Just a reminder that the awesome "Not The New Album EP" was released via ICON Mes today on iTunes USA, you can click here to buy your copy right now! (US iTunes account and iTunes software required!).

For anyone without iTunes but wanting to check out the preview of "Photographs" and "Politics" (the two non-album tracks that make up the EP along with "Mental Health") you can do so below!


UPDATE: Congratulations to Zebrahead as the new EP is now currently featured on the iTunes USA homepage under the "What's Hot" section. The EP is also featured on the "New Releases" tab on the front of the Rock Music Page and Alternative Music Page. Check out the features below:

Postcards From... Japan?!

As if a special limited edition Be@rbrick bear, or a Zebrahead Porter Bag Campaign weren't enough to have already gotten you to pre-order the new album in Japan, Sony Japan has yet another trick up it's sleeve to entice Zebrahead fans! Available in limited numbers, anyone who purchases the new album "Phoenix" online and direct from Sony will have a free Zebrahead postcard bundled with their order (while stocks last).

There are a total of 6 to choose from, each one made up of a picture of a cartoon Zebra doing a different activity in a different region of Japan! You can check out the Summer Postcards Page right here for more details, or simply view the individual postcards below!

Japanese Site Revamp!

Sony Japan's Official Zebrahead Website has been revamped with a new Phoenix theme just in time for the release of the album. Check it out here. Can we expect an Official Site Update soon as well? Stay tuned...

Exclusive Download: Once There - Bye/Sick Of Waiting 7"

Up for download today (as a few people have requested I re-upload!) is the 7" 1995 release of Once There, which for anyone not in the know was the first band of Justin Mauriello before he joined Zebrahead in 1996!

There are only two tracks on this release, but both are pretty awesome in their own right and reminiscent of early Zebrahead (kind of). You can check out the full info including download links below!

Bye/Sick Of Waiting 7"

Artist: Once There
Released: 1995 Slo Burn Records
Bitrate: 192kbps
Tracklist:
A. "Bye"
B. "Sick Of Waiting"

Front Cover:


Back Cover:


DOWNLOAD (Mediafire)
DOWNLOAD (MegaUpload)

Need an alternative host? Let me know below! Otherwise enjoy!

Zebrahead On Idobi Radio!

Zebrahead are set to appear on DJ Rossstar's Punk Rock Show on Wednesday July 9th with Secondhand Serenade! This is an hour long feature that starts at 7pm PST on Idobi Radio.

You can listen in live on the night by visiting Idobi Radio's Website, and just like last time they were on, you can submit questions for the band to DJ Rossstar via one of the methods below:

E-mail in advance - djrossstar@yahoo.com
AIM during the show - DJRossstar08
Phone in during the show - (818) 641-1605


Hopefully expect an audio rip in the future, but if not never fear, as all shows are also filmed and posted on DJ Rossstar's Official MySpace!

(FYI 7pm-8pm PST = 8pm-9pm MST/9pm-10pm CST/10pm-11pm EST/3am - 4am GMT)

Music On! TV Recommend Mental Health

Music On! TV (M-ON! for short), a Japanese music video channel, has selected "Mental Health" as its recommended video for July! This basically means it will receive an extensive amount of airtime on the channel, helping to promote the new album and to build hype for SummerSonic 2008 in which Zebrahead are set to perform on the main stage! More great news for the band!

MySpace UK Feature!

As reported yesterday Zebrahead's music video for "Mental Health" is currently viewable on MySpace but best of all is that MySpace UK are featuring the video on the main MySpace Music Page. You can check it out below! (Click for larger sized image). Talk about promotion!

Mental Health Music Video!

Zebrahead have finally added the complete music video for "Mental Health" to their MySpace Videos page. "Mental Health" is the first single to be lifted from the album which hits stores on July 9th in Japan. Check out the full video below! Thoughts?


EDIT: Important announcement! Zebrahead are to have their video featured on MySpace UK as an exclusive for one week starting tomorrow! We ask that all fans do not try and rip the video to upload to other video hosting sites (e.g. YouTube) until this period is over to prevent compromising this exclusive! Thanks for your understanding!

Upcoming Japanese Press Items!

Sony Japan are clearly aware of the importance of promoting bands, as they have pushed more than ever to spread word of Phoenix's upcoming release. Interviews and features with/on the band can be found in the following magazines and papers in the not too distant future:

MAGAZINES

July 1st - ROCKIN ON
July 10th - ROLLING STONE
July 15th - INROCK (Featured on the front cover!)
July 15th - WHAT'S IN
July 18th - CROSSBEAT
July 24th - SMART

FREE PAPERS

Available at MUSIC MASTER (HMV)
July 5th TOWER (タワーレコード) (Tower Records) (Featured on the front cover!)
July 20th DROPS　(新星堂) (Shinseido Co.) (Featured on the front cover!)
July 20th VA (TSUTAYA)

Hopefully expect some scans or translations in the future!

Planet-Loud Video Interview!

Planet-Loud has uploaded an awesome video interview that took place with Ali and Greg at Download Festival on June 13th 2008. Check it out in full below!