Classic rock, metal still making noise

Last week I caught the Journey concert at the Weber County Outdoor Arena. I couldn't believe how much fun that show was.

Steve Augeri, the man who replaced former lead singer Steve Perry, was at the top of his game. He was hitting every note, something he's struggled with in the past. And, taking into consideration who he replaced, Augeri did the band proud.

Earlier this year, Styx and Peter Frampton made a stop at the USANA Amphitheatre. I wasn't able to attend that show, but I heard from others that Frampton was pretty good. Styx has made no bones about going on the road and touring; it's something the band members love to do, and they'll take any opportunity to play live.

And when Van Halen came to the Delta Center a few weeks ago, the group played hard and well.

REO Speedwagon is hitting the road soon; former Night Ranger and Damn Yankees bassist Jack Blades has released his self-titled debut album, and former Kansas guitarist Kerry Livgren has released the album "Before Became After," with his band Proto-Kaw.

Aerosmith released "Honkin' on Bobo" and Kiss will probably embark on yet another farewell tour.

Jimmy Buffett has released "License to Chill."

Then there's Tesla, which reformed and did a tour, and Dio is slated to release a new album, "Master of the Moon," later this month.

In other words, classic rock and classic metal are still making noise.

Radio hasn't been nice to any of these bands in the past few months. I heard Van Halen's new single "It's About Time" on the radio, the day before the Delta Center show. But I haven't heard it since.

I haven't heard a new Rush song since the single "One Little Victory" in 2002. I haven't heard anything on the radio from the new release "Feedback."

Three weeks ago, I interviewed Dave Mason, a former member of Traffic and Fleetwood Mac. And he said we will never hear any of his new works on the radio. And, yes, he has a new album out. And yes, he's still touring. But you'd hardly know it.

I miss new songs from classic-rock and classic-metal bands.

Never mind those hair metal bands like Sleez Beez, Trixter and Firehouse. I'm talking about bands that have had credible history.

Dio was a member of Richie Blackmore's Rainbow and Black Sabbath.