A new digital-only compilation collects both albums by Jonah Koslen and the Heroes. Secret Origins features 18 tracks from 1983's Aces and demos from two 1982 sessions that comprise a previously unreleased album, Orange. The collection also includes the live track "Dr. Rock," recorded at the Cleveland Agora in 1983.
"It's a really rocked-out, traditional-style rock and roll tune," says Koslen. "It has that live, raw feeling to it. The band was a really good band. I wish we got to do more recording. I think it was a great follow-up to the first Breathless album. It rocks hard."
Orange lead guitarist Dan Powers remastered the recordings, and Koslen designed new cover art. Amazon has the set for $7.99. At iTunes, it's $9.99.
The End of the World as We Knew It, a documentary about defunct Cleveland alt-rock station 107.9 the End, is closer to DVD release. After clearing rights to music and live performances, co-director Mike Wendt has recorded a commentary track and assembled bonus material including new interviews, uncut interviews with End DJs and updates on their post-End careers. Watch clips at myspace.com/ 1079_the_end.
Kill the Fall play their first live shows since summer this weekend. The gothic, post-hardcore band plays a free show with Kill the Hippies and Panoramic at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 6, at the 5 O'Clock Lounge (11904 Detroit Ave.). Expect a handful of new songs.
Former Classic Metal Show host Chris Akin launches his political talk show and podcast on Friday, March 5, at his website, alldanews.com.
"It's not going to be pundit radio," says the conservative-leaning Akin. "I'll be knowledgeable enough on the issues, and discussion is going to lean more toward 'real people and the effects of government in the real world.'"
Cleveland hip-hop/R&B collective DNA Officialz is one of the opening acts for the Saturday, March 6, Chip Tha Ripper show at Peabody's (2045 E. 21st St.). The group will split its 15-minute set into four segments, with hip-hop by DNA Team and GME (Get Money Entertainment), an R&B number by female trio Ladies of Swag (LOS) and live skits. The crew is working on a mixtape and auditioning MCs. Apply at myspace.com/dnaofficialz. Doors 6 p.m.; tickets $15 advance, $19 day of show.
