Punk-era New York music icons Patti Smith and Television have made plans to share a stage for the first time since 1977. The artists will perform Oct. 2 at Gotham's Roseland Ballroom. The date is significant for Smith, as it is the 135th anniversary of the birth of spiritual/political leader Mahatma Gandhi, to whom she pays tribute on her latest album, "Trampin'," released in April via Columbia.
-- Barry A. Jeckell, N.Y.
Acclaimed reggae act John Brown's Body has signed to Easy Star Records, which will release the band's fifth album in March 2005. The Boston-based band was previously signed to I-Town/Shanachie, which also released lead singer Elliott Martin's debut solo album, 2003's "Black Castle."Songs slated to appear on the new JBB set include a few that have become concert favorites as of late, such as "Bread," "Shadow" and "Full Control." The album will be the follow-up to 2002's "Spirits All Around Us."
-- Barry A. Jeckell, N.Y.
Newly formed New York-based independent label DRT has launched a new punk imprint, Brass Tacks Records. The first release will come Jan. 25 with Boston-based Street Dogs' second album, "Back to the World." Two songs from the set -- "In Defense Of Dorchester" and "Tale Of Mass Deception" -- can be downloaded from the band's official Web site.Street Dogs are out on the road supporting Flogging Molly on a tour that visit San Diego tonight (Sept. 17). The North American leg runs through an Oct. 23 show in Las Vegas, with plans for a European run to follow.
-- Barry A. Jeckell, N.Y.
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