Hard Rock Monday: Pearl Jam, Testament, and To Die For

"OFF HE GOES" (Toronto)   PEARL JAM

One of the most influential bands of the last 25 years.   From their attack against Ticketmaster, refusing to sellout and make MTV videos, encouraging bootlegging their amazing live shows, and challenging the status quo with each new CD, Eddie Vedder, Stone Goddard, and the rest of Pearl Jam set the bar high.   Originally named Mookie Blaylock (after the NBA point guard), then stints with Mother Love Bone, Pearl Jam set records with their debut, Ten.   "Off He Goes" is from No Yield, recording in New Orleans, Eddie said it's based on himself being a "shit friend", classic Vedder!

"MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE"  TESTAMENT

Like Metallica, Testament came out of California in the early 80's and established the thrash metal genre.   They hit it big after touring with Anthrax and MTV's Headbanger's Ball put "Practice What You Preach" on heavy rotation.   This song is from their comeback CD in 2008.   Incidentally, lead guitarist, Alex Skolnick is an original band member and also plays in Trans-Siberian Orchestra, most famous for their popular instrumental metal Christmas concerts.

"I JUST DIED IN YOUR ARMS"   TO DIE FOR

Norway, Sweden, and Finland are keeping alive the speed metal spirit.   Gothic rock, death metal, power chords, and that 80's hair band vibe all remain popular at festivals all over the Scandinavian area.   To Die For is a band from Finland who do a great cover of the 80's Crowded House classic.   Love that line, "I should have walked away..."