Next album: 13 Roads To Bat

[AndrewG]

Well it's official. Meat says he is doing another album with Paul and the guys on his Facebook page. And he is planning on doing storytellers type shows too.

:D

Let's get the hype train a-rollin'!

[letsgotoofar]

Per a Steinman fan who spoke to him at an earlier con, this promises to be more "previously unheard" Jim material along the lines of Braver, including some really... thought-provoking song choices, let's say.

[jmfreeman]

I don't mind an album of old Jim stuff. let's not forget how much of Bat 2 was old Jim songs, and I quite like Braver (apart from the Pinky & Perky background vocals). Meat seems happiest recording Steinman, and whatever he puts out is always compared to Steinman anyway. I'm just glad he's fired up and ready to go again.

The shows are an exciting prospect, too. I've long said that a more laid-back approach would help Meat keep going, and a mixed singing/talking format is probably the only way to slow him down! He's such a great storyteller that it would work well. Who knows, maybe we'll even hear some rarer tunes and tales. Would this sell out arenas? I don't know, and I don't care. Judging by the queues of fans wanting to see him at Comic Cons, surely smaller venues would sell out, at least.

I wish him well in it all, and I'm looking forward to what comes of it.

[jcmoorehead]

I'm very interested in what the song choices might actually be. I'm going to guess that one of them won't be What Part Of My Body, despite how much we all want it :P

Anyone got any ideas what the other songs might be?

Either way very excited to see what comes of this. I do think that with a good relaxed environment and the proper production he does have the songs in him. We all know he was in a lot of pain during Braver which I think held him back a bit vocally, I'm certainly not expecting Bat quality vocals from him but I think he'll sound a bit fresher her.

[letsgotoofar]

Per the Steinman fan who spoke to him, he mentioned four songs in particular, but the fan remembers only two: "Safe Sex" ("a new version," reportedly; what exactly that means is anyone's guess) and another very early Steinman tune from the late Sixties, early Seventies called "You've Got to Love Me with the Sun in Your Eyes." Lyrics to the latter are here (https://jimsteinman.fandom.com/wiki/You%27ve_Got_to_Love_Me_with_the_Sun_in_Your_Eyes), and a demo recording is here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AU3D1n_BG7g). (I include lyrics only because the recording itself is a bit murky.)

If he stuck "Body" and "Not Allowed to Love" on there in addition to these four, I wouldn't care what the rest of the album was, with six strong Jim tunes in the lead.

[jmfreeman]

Safe Sex is a fine song. I haven't heard it for some years but I think it would need a little more reworking than merely changing 'girl' to 'boy' in order to work here, though.

This is all good. Who thought we'd be discussing a new Meat album so soon?

[jcmoorehead]

I know we already have it them on Bad Attitude but I'd be totally down for a new recording of Surfs Up and Nowhere Fast as well. I'd love to see Surfs Up given another chance as a single or something, amazing song.

[Danny L]

Ddin't Meat say he wanted to re record the vocals to Dead Ringer?

[letsgotoofar]

Safe Sex is a fine song. I haven't heard it for some years but I think it would need a little more reworking than merely changing 'girl' to 'boy' in order to work here, though.


Yeah, that was kind of my initial reaction to hearing that choice as well. Meat may understand a song one way as an actor, but Jim certainly has his own entirely separate character-related intentions when he writes it, and -- in my opinion -- he didn't write "Safe Sex" for a guy at all.

(Warning: strong opinion follows. I do not claim it's the right or the only opinion, just how I see it.)

There's a way Steinman writes 'guy' songs and a way he writes 'girl' songs, and in my observation, they almost never intersect. For that reason, you could make one of either kind into a duet, maybe, but completely switching gender is tough.

In his songs, the men are heroes, or at least someone insecure who desperately wants to be the male power fantasy he projects, whereas Jim's women are "a twist on the Madonna/whore complex" personified; they're either powerful (or self-empowered), mysterious, playful women who know what they want and how to get it, someone to be put on a pedestal (think, say, the narrative voice of Bonnie Tyler's "Rebel Without a Clue" or "Good Girls Go to Heaven" as performed by Pandora's Box and in the early version of Bat-musical), or fragile, vulnerable, more-than-a-titch broken women, not to be admired but pitied (at best), who are a shiner and abusive mate away from a TV movie drama (a good example is any version of "All Coming Back" that's not a duet), with very little nuance in between.

You can't really take a song written in the 'female' Steinman style and give it to a male performer, unless they're gay and owning the non-stereotypical male aspect (read: Tyce Green, to name at least one), it's a heavily tweaked duet, or it has a new lyric. In my opinion, Jim never puts men in the position the singer of "Safe Sex" is in, so just swapping gender in the appropriate lines isn't a big enough shift. It would really need to be a duet or have a new lyric.

[Evil One]

Safe Sex might work as a male song if it's rocked up a bit. As long as Meat does Body and Children I don't really give a toss what else he chooses to sing. A song with the 'blessed are the lovers' bit would be nice though.

Blessed are the lovers just beginning to learn
Blessed are the fires just beginning to burn
Blessed are the lovers who’ll inherit the Earth
Blessed are the lovers who discovered it first

[letsgotoofar]

Safe Sex might work as a male song if it's rocked up a bit.

It needs a little more than that, c'mon...

[PanicLord]

So excited to have new Meaty things coming, and so glad he's well on the mend.

[Danny L]

The Steinman songs I hope Meat gets to record aere:

What Part of My Body Hurts The Most?
The Graveyard Shift
Total Eclipse of the Heart
Not Allowed To Love
Still The Children

[Roger]

Is Jim involved? I wondering that there is no report who shows that Jim did visit the musical.I hope he is well!

I would like to have

Faster than the speed of night
Rebel without a clue
Graveyard shift
Ravishing
A kiss is a teribble thing to waste
What part of my body hurts the most
Dead is such a od thing
Hear the screams
tonight it was it means to young
We still the children

And as Bonus

Total eclipse of the heart and making love

on the album

Some songs needs alternate lyrics

[Evil One]

Before we all get carried away, has Meat publically stated that this will be an all-Steinman album?

It needs a little more than that, c'mon...Ideally yes. I do agree it's a woman's song.

The Graveyard ShiftThis would definitely need some new lyrics!

[letsgotoofar]

He's definitely interested in at least four songs from him, and I would wager that there's enough stuff lying around (including two from the musical, one of which Meat bitched about not being able to record for Braver) that it could be, but no, he has not stated that it will be all Steinman.

While I'm here, though... can we please stop insisting Meat record every other song Steinman wrote for Bonnie Tyler? What is the logic in this, exactly? As much as I occasionally like listening to them, it was daft enough hearing Meat attempt "All Coming Back" and "Loving You's a Dirty Job," which were already very successful for other female artists and just barely squeaked by. Do we really need him to cover every memorable Steinman song that ever made the hit parade?

[Evil One]

can we please stop insisting Meat record every other song Steinman wrote for Bonnie Tyler? What is the logic in this, exactly?I agree. They'll constantly be compared to the originals and they're mostly women's songs anyway. The only one I think Meat should attempt is Making Love Out Of Nothing At All and do it more like the Rory Dodd demo where the verses get faster and faster. That would be interesting.

[CarylB]

Before we all get carried away

:up::lol:

He's such a great storyteller that it would work well. Who knows, maybe we'll even hear some rarer tunes and tales. Would this sell out arenas? I don't know, and I don't care. Judging by the queues of fans wanting to see him at Comic Cons, surely smaller venues would sell out, at least.

Storytellers was a brilliant format for Meat, probably my favourite tour, because it showcases his range of talents .. but like Rocktellz & Cocktails it is a theatre show; it demands intimacy, and would lose so much if it were even attempted in a arena. At this stage I think he's dipping his toes in the water. Given his recovery continues, later if he were to get backing for theatre shows in the UK/Europe, I'm sure they would sell out!

I wish him well in it all, and I'm looking forward to what comes of it.

Me too!! And last week in NYC, finally back on stage for a few minutes working an audience, he looked SO happy .. like a man who has finally fought his way out of pits and chasms, through thorns and brambles, and finally found his way home :heart:

[PanicLord]

I agree. They'll constantly be compared to the originals and they're mostly women's songs anyway. The only one I think Meat should attempt is Making Love Out Of Nothing At All and do it more like the Rory Dodd demo where the verses get faster and faster. That would be interesting.

I agree. The Air Supply version of Making Love is hardly the dramatic emotional masterpiece Meat could have made it. Bonnie and Meat would make a great duet on Body.

[FrancineCyclesTheUS]

OMG, I am so excited!!!!!! :)

I'd love him performing

- Making Love Out Of Nothing At All

&

- What Part Of My Body Hurts The Most

<3
Best news for a long time !!

[loaferman61]

He's definitely interested in at least four songs from him, and I would wager that there's enough stuff lying around (including two from the musical, one of which Meat bitched about not being able to record for Braver) that it could be, but no, he has not stated that it will be all Steinman.

While I'm here, though... can we please stop insisting Meat record every other song Steinman wrote for Bonnie Tyler? What is the logic in this, exactly? As much as I occasionally like listening to them, it was daft enough hearing Meat attempt "All Coming Back" and "Loving You's a Dirty Job," which were already very successful for other female artists and just barely squeaked by. Do we really need him to cover every memorable Steinman song that ever made the hit parade?

Some of Jim's earlier stuff to me at least, is not very memorable and didn't make the hit parade. Some of it was just plain weird (as were some of his hits, :D) but a lot of that 60's stuff he was still coming into his own as a writer. Then again he wrote "Heaven Can Wait" and Bette Midler made a caterwauling demo in a country music style ( I suppose) and Meat managed to achieve greatness from it. According to rumor Bette needed some money but she hated the song and made it as badly as she could.

[tonyloaf]

exciting times!!!!

[Sebastian.]

Looks like this place is about to wake up.

[anotherday]

AHHHHHHHHHHH!

HES DOING BODY!!!!!!

https://soundcloud.com/siriusxmentertainment/meatloaf-on-new-song-from-jim-steinman?fbclid=IwAR2dTEQgOSljd27H8eA3KOiKbx3orLfm8t1_qCt6XnVzHAsodyVa mvAJLEo

And a NEW Jim song?!

[letsgotoofar]

The new song he refers to, "Sun in Your Eyes," is one I discuss above. Dates from the late Sixties/early Seventies, though the demo he had may have been of a newer version Jim reportedly recorded when he was in better shape. It's "new" like, say, "Going All the Way" or "It Just Won't Quit" were "new."

[anotherday]

Also sad to see Jim in such a poor state :(

[letsgotoofar]

On a lighter note, it'd be interesting to see Meat duet with Lorraine Crosby or -- funnily enough, given many of this thread's suggestions -- with Bonnie, something he wanted to maybe fit in on the last album and didn't get to do. Maybe that can be accomplished this time around?

[loaferman61]

The new song he refers to, "Sun in Your Eyes," is one I discuss above. Dates from the late Sixties/early Seventies, though the demo he had may have been of a newer version Jim reportedly recorded when he was in better shape. It's "new" like, say, "Going All the Way" or "It Just Won't Quit" were "new."

Probably this. With Jim defining what exactly is a "new" song is difficult, and I am not saying that as though it were a bad thing. There are some pretty poor quality recordings from around 1970-ish and it wasn't that great. But given Jim's recycling of things and if he dabbled with it all since 1970-ish it may be better. Part of the fun with Steinman is you never know what he may have in a file someplace.

[Danny L]

To be fair though most of the songs from Braver Than We Are were demoed in the 1970s (Who Needs The Young JS wrote when he was 19)

[letsgotoofar]

About half of them, yes. Per the fan who gave Meat a new copy of the song since he'd lost his, however, it's based in part on a newer demo mentioned here (http://www.jimsteinman.com/messageboard/d.php?id=43370) by Jim's assistant Jacqueline in 2011.

[loaferman61]

About half of them, yes. Per the fan who gave Meat a new copy of the song since he'd lost his, however, it's based in part on a newer demo mentioned here (http://www.jimsteinman.com/messageboard/d.php?id=43370) by Jim's assistant Jacqueline in 2011.

That is what I have always thought. Especially when he is healthy, Jim may always be tinkering about with stuff he may have originally written 30 years ago. He recycles from his own work enough to show that. I suspect Jim has jotted down notes on the back of a napkin that would be better than 90% of the garbage they play on a 10 song loop on the "today's hits" radio.

[letsgotoofar]

As long as they're still scouring Jim's demos, and this album is supposed to be a concept piece about emotions, why not "Smoke Song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ve9-AIVowBw)"? It's definitely nakedly emotional, very dark, and the lyrics don't need any special alteration to become a solo. If "Who Needs the Young" (equally dark and emotional) could open the last record, this at least merits a spot somewhere on this one. (Really, the only thing that might hold it back is the chorus having a similar chord progression to "More," but if that ever stopped Meat from recording Jim material, we wouldn't have most of the Jim stuff he's recorded since 1993.)

[FrancineCyclesTheUS]

AHHHHHHHHHHH!

HES DOING BODY!!!!!!

https://soundcloud.com/siriusxmentertainment/meatloaf-on-new-song-from-jim-steinman?fbclid=IwAR2dTEQgOSljd27H8eA3KOiKbx3orLfm8t1_qCt6XnVzHAsodyVa mvAJLEo

And a NEW Jim song?!

!!!!!! I am so happy!!

[stretch37]

Also sad to see Jim in such a poor state :(

See where? Far as I've known he's had some struggles in recent years but it hasn't gotten worse recently - he seems to post on his new twitter account (or at least some of the tweets sound like Jim wrote them himself, E.g., All caps lol). Then again, I'm not on the up and up...So Just curious what's going on. I love Jim and his genius creations...Hopefully he's well enough to be involved with Meat's new album, even if it is jotting some lyrics down on napkins and letting Paul and the band do the heavy lifting.

[letsgotoofar]

See where? Far as I've known he's had some struggles in recent years but it hasn't gotten worse recently - he seems to post on his new twitter account (or at least some of the tweets sound like Jim wrote them himself, E.g., All caps lol).

Emphasis mine.

[AndrewG]

Never knew Steinman had a Twitter. He seems to have forgotten about his two Facebook accounts. At least that has led to people mostly stopping to randomly tag him in nonsense unrelated posts for suiting their own self importance. Bunch of twats who kept doing that.

[proctorloaf]

I like to think that my post (originally posted in another thread was the catalyst for this new album) although of course I know it wasn't lol.

Post below:

I'd love to think that there could be one more album...

I've written the track list for what it could be and included 5 tracks of songs I've written(*). The concept is very much characters in their twilight years. Down with the ship is a Captain remembering is favourite sea voyage, Bring me my Sword; a old knight riding into what he knows will be is last battle etc...

Here's the track list. What do you think?

Meat Loaf - 

The Graveyard Shift 


The Graveyard Shift
Lone Wolf*

Making Love out of Nothing at All
You’ve Got to Love me with the Sun in your Eyes (until you go blind)

Down with the Ship*

What Part of My Body Hurts the Most?
Vaults of Heaven
Bring me my Sword*

Death of a Salesman*
City Night Feat Ellen Foley

Tonight is what it means to be Young

Not Allowed to Love
Losing My Grip*

We’re Still the Children Feat Ellen Foley, Karla Devito, Patti Russo, Mrs Loud, Bonnie Tyler, Todd Rundgren and Rory Dodd

[PanicLord]

I like to think that my post (originally posted in another thread was the catalyst for this new album) although of course I know it wasn't lol.

Post below:

I'd love to think that there could be one more album...

I've written the track list for what it could be and included 5 tracks of songs I've written(*). The concept is very much characters in their twilight years. Down with the ship is a Captain remembering is favourite sea voyage, Bring me my Sword; a old knight riding into what he knows will be is last battle etc...

Here's the track list. What do you think?

Meat Loaf - 

The Graveyard Shift 


The Graveyard Shift
Lone Wolf*

Making Love out of Nothing at All
You’ve Got to Love me with the Sun in your Eyes (until you go blind)

Down with the Ship*

What Part of My Body Hurts the Most?
Vaults of Heaven
Bring me my Sword*

Death of a Salesman*
City Night Feat Ellen Foley

Tonight is what it means to be Young

Not Allowed to Love
Losing My Grip*

We’re Still the Children Feat Ellen Foley, Karla Devito, Patti Russo, Mrs Loud, Bonnie Tyler, Todd Rundgren and Rory Dodd

Like the Steinman choices but Bonnie should also be the duet partner on Body.

[stretch37]

Emphasis mine.

I wondered if someone was responsible for taking what Jim would like to share and posting for him as part of his team. If you are part of his team, thanks so much for getting the word out. It's great to read something new from Jim

[letsgotoofar]

Oh, dear me... I'm not at all from the team (though I'd argue I virtually was for at least three years back in the early aughts, contrary to what fellow fans may believe), but I am in a position to know that not all of the tweets are him, I'll tell you that much.

[stretch37]

Oh, dear me... I'm not at all from the team (though I'd argue I virtually was for at least three years back in the early aughts, contrary to what fellow fans may believe), but I am in a position to know that not all of the tweets are him, I'll tell you that much.

:lol: sorry, I think I misunderstood what you meant. That's very interesting though, and it makes sense. Heck, even all of Meat's aren't his own. It's easy to tell when they are not based on grammar alone :P I am happy that you seem to think at least some tweets are Jim's though, great that he can still get the word out after I'd noticed him going pretty quiet on Facebook for awhile.

[letsgotoofar]

...or are made to look like Jim's...

[proctorloaf]

Have to admit that they sound awesome together on A Kiss is a Terrible thing to waste!

On a lighter note, it'd be interesting to see Meat duet with Lorraine Crosby or -- funnily enough, given many of this thread's suggestions -- with Bonnie, something he wanted to maybe fit in on the last album and didn't get to do. Maybe that can be accomplished this time around?

[proctorloaf]

I hope that What Part of my Body Hurts the Most is not a duet. After recent years, it would be such a personal song which Meat could really put his experience into the character.

Like Jonny Cash's hurt. It would be a poignant comment on the world today.

The songs in the musical were only shared out amongst the cast, because no normal person can sing those songs 8 times a week. The fact it took 6 people to sing Anything for Love, shows just what a powerhouse genius Meat Loaf really is!

[FrancineCyclesTheUS]

I hope that What Part of my Body Hurts the Most is not a duet. After recent years, it would be such a personal song which Meat could really put his experience into the character.

Like Jonny Cash's hurt. It would be a poignant comment on the world today.

The songs in the musical were only shared out amongst the cast, because no normal person can sing those songs 8 times a week. The fact it took 6 people to sing Anything for Love, shows just what a powerhouse genius Meat Loaf really is!

Yes, I think Body is perfect as a duet in the musical,
but on 13 Roads To Bat it was greater to have it sung by Meat alone.
It will sound fantastic...

[Mr. Happy]

For me, the two essential elements of a great Steinman/Meat Loaf song are the piano and the backing vocals. The piano is the lead harmonic instrument, even if it's not the only instrument, and the backing vocals are treated as a separate instrument with distinct parts/melodies rather than just being oohs/aahs. Obviously there's exceptions to that, but generally it greats a raw but powerful sound when done well.

With that in mind, I don't think there's been an arrangement yet that beats the original What Part of My Body. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FjYzywLK5Q) It's just a guy with a great voice singing over a great piece of music with the support of well-arranged, complimentary backing vocals. The Bat musical version is great too, but the duet part and the horns and the strings and everything don't really add anything to the song. I'd love to hear Meat sing Body alone at the piano with his older, weathered voice, along with maybe some tactful BVs like in the original Dream Engine version. I think a simple piano/vocal performance of a song as good as Body would serve as a really beautiful capstone for his career, seeing as Going All The Way apparently isn't that anymore.

[proctorloaf]

I totally agree. What we have lost in music generally is the backing vocals. People singing together. it's a key Steinman style. It makes all music better.

For me, the two essential elements of a great Steinman/Meat Loaf song are the piano and the backing vocals. The piano is the lead harmonic instrument, even if it's not the only instrument, and the backing vocals are treated as a separate instrument with distinct parts/melodies rather than just being oohs/aahs. Obviously there's exceptions to that, but generally it greats a raw but powerful sound when done well.

With that in mind, I don't think there's been an arrangement yet that beats the original What Part of My Body. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FjYzywLK5Q) It's just a guy with a great voice singing over a great piece of music with the support of well-arranged, complimentary backing vocals. The Bat musical version is great too, but the duet part and the horns and the strings and everything don't really add anything to the song. I'd love to hear Meat sing Body alone at the piano with his older, weathered voice, along with maybe some tactful BVs like in the original Dream Engine version. I think a simple piano/vocal performance of a song as good as Body would serve as a really beautiful capstone for his career, seeing as Going All The Way apparently isn't that anymore.

[AndrewG]

I thought some of the backing vocals really don't sound right on the last few albums. Not sure why they are recorded the way they are. They sound very strange to me. :shrug:

[PanicLord]

I thought some of the backing vocals really don't sound right on the last few albums. Not sure why they are recorded the way they are. They sound very strange to me. :shrug:

The backing vocals add a lot of the drama and emotion and impact for me. I think a lot of producers see them as just ooohs and ahhhs but done well they are so much more than that... a powerful instrument in their own right. Same with the piano. So much more than just a tinkling of the ivories... it is key to Steinman music.

[proctorloaf]

Meat's planning to sing a song written for him by Dolly Parton. Will we finally get Bat out of Nashville?

[letsgotoofar]

I thought some of the backing vocals really don't sound right on the last few albums. Not sure why they are recorded the way they are. They sound very strange to me. :shrug:
Well, on the Caleb album, it was all Justin, and it sounded pretty much the same as Braver to me. Tell ya the truth, I didn't care for it on either of them.

[jmfreeman]

Yes, I thought 'Braver' would have been so much more powerful without the synthetic cartoon-like background vocals.

[PanicLord]

Meat's planning to sing a song written for him by Dolly Parton. Will we finally get Bat out of Nashville?

Wow that could be a powerful combination!

[Danny L]

So far:

The Dolly Parton song
What Part of My Body Hurt The Most
(a version of) Safe Sex
You've Got to Love Me with the Sun in Your Eyes Until The Day That You Go Blind
maybe one or two other from Jim?

[loaferman61]

So far:

The Dolly Parton song
What Part of My Body Hurt The Most
(a version of) Safe Sex
You've Got to Love Me with the Sun in Your Eyes Until The Day That You Go Blind
maybe one or two other from Jim?

I don't think there is anything "new" from Jim, but I would expect anything left will be recorded some for the first time on a full studio recording. At this point anything Jim has remaining should be for posterity if no other reason. Some of his early stuff was weird, any existing versions I have heard were poor and could probably be improved upon.

[proctorloaf]

For Braver, Meat talked about a song by Karla's husband Bobby Benson. I wonder if he'll do that!

[letsgotoofar]

In terms of Jim material, as "Not Allowed to Love" was originally a duet, it'd be neat to hear Meat do that with Bonnie or Lorraine, since they were supposed to be on the last album and weren't. ("Body" could be a candidate as well; there's another verse not included in the musical that could be given to a female soloist so that she doesn't get the short shrift of the female character in the musical.)

[anotherday]

Andrew's Instagram has a photo of him/christina and Jim from yesterday. Man...

Our heroes are getting old.
And it sucks.

[Tina.K.]

Andrew's Instagram has a photo of him/christina and Jim from yesterday. Man...

Our heroes are getting old.
And it sucks.

Where? Got a link or account name?

[stretch37]

Where? Got a link or account name?

You'll need to login, but here's the link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4aoHJ4HpA7/

[AndrewG]

Wow. I barely recognise Jim. Glad he got to spend his birthday in a good way with the cast etc. The only time we seemed to get some truth about what was happening with Jim's health up until now was via Meat it seems.

Indeed, time is limited and we should make the most of what we have and what we can get in this world and try to be a better person every day. Don't waste your time arguing politics. Don't waste your time ranting on Twitter or social media. Create and/or enjoy, love and above all smile.

Jim and Meat are leaving behind a massive legacy of work, smiles and passion that will live forever.

I think Jim will be seen as a sort of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart or indeed Richard Wagner of rock music.

[loaferman61]

Wow. I barely recognise Jim. Glad he got to spend his birthday in a good way with the cast etc. The only time we seemed to get some truth about what was happening with Jim's health up until now was via Meat it seems.

Indeed, time is limited and we should make the most of what we have and what we can get in this world and try to be a better person every day. Don't waste your time arguing politics. Don't waste your time ranting on Twitter or social media. Create and/or enjoy, love and above all smile.


Wise words. In typical Jim fashion though he is still wearing a fashionable shirt and necklace. I wish I could make out what is on them.

[nightinr]

Any more news on the new album and summer UK tour?

[Monstro]

Any more news on the new album and summer UK tour?

I wouldn't hold your breath

[loaferman61]

I wouldn't hold your breath

^This^. I hope for things, I hear of things, I wait until I see proof of said things.

[CarylB]

Meat has new management and has secured a record deal, so I await a new album with patience but also confidence :-)

He is so determined to get back to the stage I believe he will in some format, although I think his sights are on doing some shows.

[ajf33]

With regards to a possible tour, would doing what Phil Collins has done be am option, or would that be to much of a compromise as far as Meats concerned, to basically do a show sat down?

I can not wait, for a new album, but will be patient until Meat feels ready to put it out there!

[AndrewG]

With regards to a possible tour, would doing what Phil Collins has done be am option, or would that be to much of a compromise as far as Meats concerned, to basically do a show sat down?

I can not wait, for a new album, but will be patient until Meat feels ready to put it out there!

Really surprised at the rate Phil Collins has deteriorated. I'm a huge fan, never seen him live but I refuse to go now. I don't think he should perform. He looks in worse health than Meat. They say it is the extensive drinking he did in the early 2010s but it looks more serious than that to me. :(

[stretch37]

Really surprised at the rate Phil Collins has deteriorated. I'm a huge fan, never seen him live but I refuse to go now. I don't think he should perform. He looks in worse health than Meat. They say it is the extensive drinking he did in the early 2010s but it looks more serious than that to me. :(

He has drop-foot...No feeling in one foot, so I imagine it's hard to exercise and get into shape for a show, or stand at all. He may have other issues though, it's hard to tell. His voice is still great, but physically, I agree that he's in worse shape than Meat.

[nightinr]

Meat has new management and has secured a record deal, so I await a new album with patience but also confidence :-)

He is so determined to get back to the stage I believe he will in some format, although I think his sights are on doing some shows.

Caryl thanks for the info....let's hope Meat is back in the studio soon and we can expect an arena tour in Autumn 2020.

Have you got any news on the bankruptcy story...was the quote referring to the 1980s or more recently?

[CarylB]

Caryl thanks for the info....let's hope Meat is back in the studio soon and we can expect an arena tour in Autumn 2020.

He's doing the London ComicCon 24-26 July, which I think indicates that any summer tour here is unlikely .. and as to an arena tour I'm not sure the kind of show he wants to mount would suit arenas ..

Have you got any news on the bankruptcy story...was the quote referring to the 1980s or more recently?

He regarded the suggestion that bankruptcy was a recent issue as not worthy of comment ;)

[ajf33]

slightly off topic, but does anyone who is going to the London film & comic convention in July know, what the seating arrangements for Meats talk are, for those who've brought the diamond pass? Reason I ask is a friend has brought herself one for her birthday, but now wants to buy her partner a ticket for the talk only (he not interested in the other stuff the diamond pass gives) but she's unsure if they'll be able to sit together. She suffers from anxiety problems hence wanting to sit with him, so just wondered if anyone knew how the seating works for these kind of events (she has tried asking the organizers, but they have yet to answer her!)

[jmfreeman]

it's pretty much a free-for-all with regard to the seating at the talk. Diamond Pass Holders are supposed to be first in the queue (so that they can get the best seats once everyone is allowed to filter in), but none of the staff/volunteers really police it. Once you get into the 'room' you just sit where you like. Nothing is reserved. We had diamond passes last time round and ended up behind many people in the queue who hadn't.

[jmfreeman]

So worst comes to the worst, the person with the Diamond Pass can just sit further back with the non-pass guest.

[nightinr]

The price of these comic cons are verging on extortionate. Is it really worth the cost of two if not three high profile concerts?

[proctorloaf]

Yes it is.

The price of these comic cons are verging on extortionate. Is it really worth the cost of two if not three high profile concerts?

[Sebastian.]

The price of these comic cons are verging on extortionate. Is it really worth the cost of two if not three high profile concerts?

Honestly in my opinion, no. Give me a concert over comic con any day. One of the worst and most overpriced experiences ever.

[PanicLord]

Lol well this is a real roller coaster ride 🤣

[Monstro]

The price of these comic cons are verging on extortionate. Is it really worth the cost of two if not three high profile concerts?

Honestly in my opinion, no. Give me a concert over comic con any day. One of the worst and most overpriced experiences ever.

I'm with Biggles, prices verging on the ridiculous with no guarantees, artist may or may not appear and having to book extra tickets over admission to see who you want to? Each to their own and if people are happy to do it then good on them but not something I'd ever do.

[Adje]

It all comes down to your intentions.
For Dortmund, last saturday, I payed 42,50 entrance. We had a busy day from 9am til 18pm. As a movie buff it was already worth the money. Saw legions of movie stars, sat in a DeLorean :twisted: and watched several, for me, interesting movie props. Also, most celebs didn't mind if you took pictures or video (some did and they had signs 'no photos') That by itself was already worth the entrance. Meat was a bonus. Is 50 euro for a signature worth it? That's up to you. I had the pleasure of talking to Meat (and Deborah) for an extended time (over 20 minutes). Had a picture taken and a personal item signed also. So for me it was as if I payed for a M&G. What do you pay for those?

So ya, for me it was more than worth it.

That said, if you had several actors you wanted to meet, schedule was very tight. I talked to some people that didn't get the chance to take a picture with one celeb, because time schedule made it impossible, as they also had a shoot with another celeb in the same time slot. So those people will certainly say it was not worth the money. :twisted: Although I have no clue how they handle timeslots in London)

Again, it's what you're hoping to get. For me there was so much to see and enjoy, even without celebrities walking around ;-)

[AndrewG]

The prices may seem steep. Two weeks I ago I paid £9 each time to ride a roller coaster. I went on it 3 times in a row. Some may think it's crazy. But when you find it out it takes 80 trucks to deliver the roller coaster from Germany to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland each Christmas and there are about 8-12 staff working on busy nights on the ride I don't think it's much.

It's the same with a £50 comic con. When all is said and done Meat probably only sees 20% of that if he's lucky :shrug:

People spend all ranges of money on things that may not seem worth it from thousands on a "Banksy" to £200.000 on a car to £10.000.000 on a house. It only matters to the person who spent it if it is worth it or not, not the ones who see a price and think "Nah, that's too much for me." ;)

[nightinr]

Isn't the London one the best part of £200 all in with general admission, autograph from Meat and talk from Meat?

This is outside the scope of many people especially with travel costs etc. Just because they have enough people buying the tickets doesn't mean the high prices are acceptable.

I'm not blaming Meat as I'm aware he has costs and fees to pay, but maybe if he wishes to meet a wider audience why not charge £30 for a 2 hour theatre talk?

[nightinr]

Did we find anything exciting out about the next album/tour at Dortmund comic con?

[Adje]

Did we find anything exciting out about the next album/tour at Dortmund comic con?

'I'm gonna try to do a show in April, in the city I live in, in Nashville Tennessee, and we'll see how that goes.'

Quote from the Q&A session in Dortmund

[nightinr]

Great to see Meat looking so well (thanks for posting on your youtube channel Adje). He is looking the best he has looked in years.

I never realised he lived in Nashville Tennessee now? I thought he still lived in Austin Texas. What brought about the move? Meat certainly does like to move around the US!

Surely a UK arena tour will be announced shortly.....

[Monstro]

Surely a UK arena tour will be announced shortly.....

Show he's looking to put on may not be suited to arenas, was waiting on ok from Dr's to start rehearsing, expect news early (ish) next year of some sort of a tour late 2020, currently looking at US and UK only though this might change.

[nightinr]

I just think the UK promoters will insist on an arena tour rather than a theatre tour that will make limited money.....

[ThatWriterGuy]

Look at Meat's health. Look at his age. And then do the maths.
I wouldn't expect anything larger than Storytellers type shows in intimate venues for the foreseeable future. Meat may surprise you - who knows - but arena tours are the last thing I would expect to happen.

(incidentally - Merry Christmas, Season's Greetings, and Happy Holidays to all!)

[MarkS]

'I'm gonna try to do a show in April, in the city I live in, in Nashville Tennessee, and we'll see how that goes.'

Quote from the Q&A session in Dortmund

I had no idea that Meat and I now live in the same city, will be looking out for that April situation with eager anticipation

[stretch37]

I just think the UK promoters will insist on an arena tour rather than a theatre tour that will make limited money.....

They likely will. Meat's ideal response given his current situation: 🖕

[nightinr]

Remember arena tours bring in the $$$. Phil Collins did them and he was strapped to a chair.....

[CarylB]

I never realised he lived in Nashville Tennessee now? I thought he still lived in Austin Texas. What brought about the move?

Remember he spent quite a bit of time in Nashville when he was recording Braver. I think he liked the area, then there are things like taxes and medical insurance etc ... and he was able to have a house built to his exact specifications, and the size they wanted :D

[mlbf]

I just found this and I am hyperventilating with excitement. !!! Jesus, new Steinman content with MEAT! OMG! I AM DYING RIGHT NOW! HES RECORDING SUN IN YOUR EYES! OH MY GOD! OH MY GOD! 13 ROADS TO BAT! OH MY GOD!

[Sebastian.]

He told me he was moving to Nashville pretty much straight after I told him I was moving to Texas...

[RSG]

Well it's official. Meat says he is doing another album with Paul and the guys on his Facebook page. And he is planning on doing storytellers type shows too.

:D

Let's get the hype train a-rollin'!

Have there been anything more posted on this subject? :shock:

[aks650]

Not that I have seen, although I could be wrong..?

I would love to see some sort of activity from Meat and the band whether it be an album or a tour.

[stretch37]

Not that I have seen, although I could be wrong..?

I would love to see some sort of activity from Meat and the band whether it be an album or a tour.

Meat's back has been sh** again since he got back from Germany, so might be a minor setback to getting progress on those plans?

[aks650]

😞 that’s not so good! Guess we will just have to wait and see! Health comes first!!

[RSG]

Meat has never recorded two songs which sound alike. Would there be any kind of sound you'd wanna see Meat and NLE revisit?

Songs such as TMIL, Madness, Land Of The Pig, Read Em And Weep, anything basically from bad attitude besides it's title track, and the acoustic guitar from handbasket were something I never imagined he'd record after the IMO successful Testify

Some kinda rearranged Decadent Wish (2003) would sound great with Paul Randy and John involved. I don't include Justin cause from what I remember piano wasn't in the song.

[anotherday]

Meat has never recorded two songs which sound alike. Would there be any kind of sound you'd wanna see Meat and NLE revisit?

Songs such as TMIL, Madness, Land Of The Pig, Read Em And Weep, anything basically from bad attitude besides it's title track, and the acoustic guitar from handbasket were something I never imagined he'd record after the IMO successful Testify

Some kinda rearranged Decadent Wish (2003) would sound great with Paul Randy and John involved. I don't include Justin cause from what I remember piano wasn't in the song.

Give me Decadent Wish, Madness, and IKYIFDCB style sounds and I'd be pleased.

[Evil One]

I'd like a new album to sound like Couldn't Have Said It Better, with Steinman songs. Braver is a good album, but the backing vocals are poor and the sound isn't 'in your face' enough for a Meat Loaf production.

[stretch37]

I'd like a new album to sound like Couldn't Have Said It Better, with Steinman songs. Braver is a good album, but the backing vocals are poor and the sound isn't 'in your face' enough for a Meat Loaf production.

That'd be great :cool:

[letsgotoofar]

I'd like a new album to sound like Couldn't Have Said It Better, with Steinman songs. Braver is a good album, but the backing vocals are poor and the sound isn't 'in your face' enough for a Meat Loaf production.

At one point, wasn't that what Meat basically wanted to do with Bat III? (See the answer to track 17 on the dearly departed evil nickname's site (https://mljs.evilnickname.org/meatloaf/promo/couldnthavesaiditbetter-interviewcd.html).)

[stretch37]

At one point, wasn't that what Meat basically wanted to do with Bat III? (See the answer to track 17 on the dearly departed evil nickname's site (https://mljs.evilnickname.org/meatloaf/promo/couldnthavesaiditbetter-interviewcd.html).)

Rip evil nickname :( Miss you're thoughts on all things Meat Loaf...And thanks for sharing that letsgotoofar. I became a fan at the time of CHSIB - actually from the music video and Meat in that trench coat. I got hooked that instant. He truly seemed larger than life. It would feel appropriately full circle to return to that vibe - perhaps with a modernized production/feel to it.

[RSG]

I sometimes feel M Manson could sing Meat's More exactly the way the song is arranged on Braver.. luckily Meat recorded though. John 5 (Bat 3's TMIL collaborator) assisted with 2006's gothic theme..

Much of everything Jim has to do with the dark side of romance. Arguably TANZ (Vampire) has these darker themes along with Back Into Hell's dark and enchanting rock n roll elements. Braver is dark lyrically, maybe anything Meat and Band may record of Steinman's would return to something like Tanz or even Kulick/Jacobs/Durkee... wishful thinking?

anything we may get hope to include some music video ... or Still the Children, What Part Of My & Sun In Your Eyes... not sure if I'm using the expression correctly, to round out the Meat Loaf and Steinman partnership full circle? Maybe nithing Bat with a title at the beginning in bold red like wild berries or Chuck Berries red

Cry Over Me video was dark and filmed great, only to have no Anything For Love kinda plot nor anything interesting like Neighborhood Though maybe I recollecting incorrectly. Even very best of 'A Kiss' video only three minutes has some mad actress smiling in cave??

[Evil One]

Or like Hell In A Handbasket with Steinman songs and a bit of polish. Looking past the heavy breathing and sloshes of spit, I think the album is produced better than Braver. It's certainly more imaginative.

[letsgotoofar]

Lots of heavy breathing and lots of sloshes of spit, if you ask me. I'm apparently alone in this judging by prevailing opinions on this forum, but whatever one could say about the quality of certain songs themselves, I think the last time Meat sounded consistently aces in his present form was HCTB.

[RSG]

Does anyone have roughly an idea how much time has passed between when a new ML recording from past was announced (recent or not) and when an announcement of ML and band has begun recording?

As some have said in the past there may already be records awaiting Meat's vocals.. anything like that with some songwriters such as James Michael and Rick Brantley is always welcome.. even some ody else with a whole new idea of production be great.

Wasn't there an article in Winter 2012 of Meat announcing a party re ord? Ain't exactly a way to describe Steinman's Wagnerian Rock..

https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/510914/meat-loaf-calls-new-album-the-most-honest-record-ive-ever-done
(found link after having written this post. :twisted: )
one can't help but ask if a thing became of said part record... Halleujah Song starring House and you might recall during the Hang Cool period a Twitter video of James Michael jamming on an acoustic guitar doing only described from Meat as the hit! Lastly during the same sessions Meat had tweeted again something about John having recorded some durms for some song title "nothing to lose"

[Adje]

Meat posted on his facebook today the question if fans would buy an album with 4-5 new songs (incl What part of my body) plus a demo of Bat from 1975.

Hmmm. Lemme think...

:roll::twisted::lol:

[duke knooby]

bat demo would be interesting to hear, and still the children

but I've never heard a version of body that has caught my attention

[Tina.K.]

Yep, I would buy it. But I’m not so sure if there will ever be a new album. I do hope so.

[Mr. Happy]

Anything is better than nothing. I'd buy it.

Don't think a collection of new material should include a demo of an old song though. Let it stand on its own merits.

[AndrewG]

Why not call it Welcome To The Neighbourhood Part II? Get Nevison and/or Cavallo out of retirement to produce it. Should get enough song entries not to have to use demos. Maybe a Bat demo as a bonus but it shouldn't be the focus of an album. That is literally pandering to hardcore fans I reckon.

[Meat Loaf_fan]

If there won't be demo but demos, than I will buy it. There will be also 5 new songs (including those from Jim Steinman :cool:), so (as I said) I will buy it! :-)

[Evil One]

Get Nevison
No thanks. Welcome To The Neighbourhood is a poorly produced rush job of an album.

[stretch37]

If there won't be demo but demos, than I will buy it. There will be also 5 new songs (including those from Jim Steinman :cool:), so (as I said) I will buy it! :-)

Meat did say demos not demo, so here's hoping for your sake that's what he means. I would love to hear the demos as an aside, but I'm not as big a fan of older stuff and would rather have at least an EP worth of new material. That's a good starting point for Meat getting back into things.

[duke knooby]

No thanks. Welcome To The Neighbourhood is a poorly produced rush job of an album.

Is it?

I love it anyway, one of my favourite non bat albums :-)

[letsgotoofar]

I dunno... I'm kind of worried about the album proving a cynic's point unintentionally if the buying public compares current Meat to 1975 Meat. People are already harsh, unnecessarily or not, on a good day without being able to make the comparison on the same album.

[AndrewG]

I dunno... I'm kind of worried about the album proving a cynic's point unintentionally if the buying public compares current Meat to 1975 Meat. People are already harsh, unnecessarily or not, on a good day without being able to make the comparison on the same album.

Good point.

[letsgotoofar]

And I'm not saying the release is a bad idea, but, like, maybe do them separately, or even say, "Hey, Sony, we've got some bonus material for your next big phoney-baloney Bat reissue!" and let the new album (or EP) stand on its own.

[PanicLord]

I dunno... I'm kind of worried about the album proving a cynic's point unintentionally if the buying public compares current Meat to 1975 Meat. People are already harsh, unnecessarily or not, on a good day without being able to make the comparison on the same album.

However, there's every possibility that Meat's surgery and rest time... though not as quick and successful as was hoped... has allowed time for a full vocal recovery. The vocals on HCTB are stunning so if that sort of sound can be repeated, and I hope it can, the new tracks could stand up to anything.

[loaferman61]

I dunno... I'm kind of worried about the album proving a cynic's point unintentionally if the buying public compares current Meat to 1975 Meat. People are already harsh, unnecessarily or not, on a good day without being able to make the comparison on the same album.

That will be inevitable. They compared BTWA to Bat. I agree that I wouldn't mix the two. Meat sounded great on HCTB but I found the songs a bit dependent on understanding a short story. Albums don't make the money they once did so I don't know if Cavallo would do it, most likely it will be Paul. If Meat's voice is strong maybe we get some bombast back.

I don't think Jim has that much left in the filing cabinet. I would love for Tobias from Avantasia to work with Meat. He has tried before but Meat;s managers said no I believe.

Listen to "Ghost in the Moon" by Avantasia and the Jim and Meat influences are right there.

[aks650]

I really hope this happens, agree a stand alone EP with a separate bonus demo cd would be good, I recall Meat chatted about releasing these demos a while back, did he not post on Facebook asking if anyone had a copy of a song?

Oh and Ghosts in the moon song sounds fantastic!! Thanks very much for that, I shall listen some more tomorrow.

Adam

[Wario]

why have these demos been unheard?

countless rereleases of bat and it shouldve been on there.

[MarkS]

At this late stage of the game, I will take whatever new material we can get and buy it however they deem necessary to release it

[ThatWriterGuy]

Ghosts in the moon song sounds fantastic!! Thanks very much for that, I shall listen some more tomorrow.

Adam

Be sure to check out The Story Ain't Over, and Mystery of a Blood Red Rose, too. I used to know Tobi back in the early 00s. We met at a gig in ... Derbyshire, I think? Some years later we came close to working on a TV project together (we'd worked out an edit of his song Superheroes for the theme). Seems like a long time ago these days.
Great days.
Great fun.

[jcmoorehead]

Be sure to check out The Story Ain't Over, and Mystery of a Blood Red Rose, too. I used to know Tobi back in the early 00s. We met at a gig in ... Derbyshire, I think? Some years later we came close to working on a TV project together (we'd worked out an edit of his song Superheroes for the theme). Seems like a long time ago these days.
Great days.
Great fun.
Not quite on the Jim/Meat influence side of things but anyone listening to Avantasia absolutely has to check out the Ayreon projects as well by Arjen Lucassen. Tobias is on the latest one (The Source) and I believe Arjen has a guitar solo or such on one of the latest Avantasia's too.

[loaferman61]

My understanding is that "Mystery of a Blood Red Rose" was the song Meat's "people" passed on. Not Tobias' greatest song but having the 2 work together could have opened some doors. I have little faith the 2 will ever work together, although Tobias gets the Steinman style without being a copycat. If we get any new recordings I feel certain they will be done much like BTWA. Probably Meat and Paul producing and tailoring it to Meat's current voice. To me BTWA was fine for the vocals Meat was capable of at the time, hopefully once he recovers to full health they can get a little more bombastic. Even without Jim, his songs just cry out to be filled with thundering piano, booming drums and epic choir like backing vocals.

[letsgotoofar]

I agree, loaferman61, that comparisons will be inevitable whether we like it or not, but can't we avoid making it easier for them to be made?

[ThatWriterGuy]

My understanding is that "Mystery of a Blood Red Rose" was the song Meat's "people" passed on.

Tobi originally wanted Meat on 2007's The Story Ain't Over. As you rightly mentioned, he tried again with Blood Red Rose.

[loaferman61]

I agree, loaferman61, that comparisons will be inevitable whether we like it or not, but can't we avoid making it easier for them to be made?

I don't know how we can. That is up to Meat and the crew. Honestly I think if Meat does another 10 albums they are inevitably be compared to "Bat". You don't even hear many comparisons to "Bat 2" and that was a huge hit itself.

Some of the BTWA reviews were brutal, far worse than it deserved but turn on the radio and hear the garbage they play over-and-over and this is the stuff they judge (critics and the general public) to be "good". I don't think Meat has ever worried about changing to please them, but in a lot of interviews he hits back at critics so obviously he pays attention to them.

[Wario]

braver did deserve the reviews it got. I love meat but the vocals were not up to par. it felt like a live album without any dubs

also my understanding is Meat declined blood red rose due to health right?

[jcmoorehead]

braver did deserve the reviews it got. I love meat but the vocals were not up to par. it felt like a live album without any dubs

also my understanding is Meat declined blood red rose due to health right?
From what I understand, the song didn't even reach him. Was immediately shut down by his management? Not 100% sure though.

[proctorloaf]

I understand why the management threw it out. The lyrics are pants. The guy has got an amazing voice but the songs are all style. The melodies are rudimentary and the messages are cliche. Everything that Meat's music isn't.

[loaferman61]

I understand why the management threw it out. The lyrics are pants. The guy has got an amazing voice but the songs are all style. The melodies are rudimentary and the messages are cliche. Everything that Meat's music isn't.

Not that I ever expect him to work with Meat, but his style is the closest to Steinman I have heard without being sheer imitation. With Meat asking if we would buy 4 or 5 "new" songs and a demo makes me think he wants to do an all Steinman album. Jim possibly doesn't have much left that is usable and most of it is probably many years old. I'm ok with demos, but I would rather they give some other songs a chance. Most of us have heard "Unsaid" and "Decadent Wish" and those were supposed to be on CHSIB album I think.

There must be something else we could get that would be "new" even if it is stuff we uber-fans may have heard. Demos seem like filler to me. They would be interesting and I'd but it for the new songs. Hearing Meat sing "Body" makes it worth purchasing just for that.

[AndrewG]

I love Avantasia's music, presentation and music style but I agree the lyrics wouldn't suit Meat.

But I also think "Next time you stab me in the back you better do it to my face" and "If God Could Talk" don't suit Meat either. :shrug:

[loaferman61]

I love Avantasia's music, presentation and music style but I agree the lyrics wouldn't suit Meat.

But I also think "Next time you stab me in the back you better do it to my face" and "If God Could Talk" don't suit Meat either. :shrug:

True. I was thinking about who could work with Meat to get a different result than the production on BTWA. I understand they had to deal with Meat's voice at the time and not overwhelming it, but I miss the more typical Steinman style of going over the top. Being understated was OK for one album but for me it needs more bombast (not cowbell in this case).

[stretch37]

True. I was thinking about who could work with Meat to get a different result than the production on BTWA. I understand they had to deal with Meat's voice at the time and not overwhelming it, but I miss the more typical Steinman style of going over the top. Being understated was OK for one album but for me it needs more bombast (not cowbell in this case).

I think we need someone new to work with Meat. I'd love it if Paul was still involved heavily. But look at Ozzy's new album. They were able to bring so much out of him as an artist by surrounding him with the right team. The youthful energy is great. They used Post Malone's producer and team. He's a young artist I didn't know about until the collaboration occurred.

If Meat's voice has recovered as much as he says it has (I have no reason to doubt that), then I think he could benefit from others doing the heavy lifting and injection of some youthful energy into the equation.

[Evil One]

This was buried in the comments on Meat's Facebook page in response to a request for more live stuff:
I am trying so hard to get some released along with a 5 Track EP with "What Part of My Body" as a duet. I will get it out next year.

5 track EP?
What Part Of My Body Hurts The Most
Not Allowed To Love
Still The Children
You've Got To Love Me With The Sun In Your Eyes Until The Day That You Go Blind
Safe Sex

:shrug::shrug::shrug::shrug::shrug: