Of course, “American Pie” is one of the greatest songs out there that you can use to signify an ending to something, although my love for 90s rock says that Semisonic’s “Closing Time” is also up there on the list. Either way, Rock Band gamers will be able to sing off the weekly DLC of the game come early next month.

This marks the end to an over 275 consecutive week run consisting of more than 4,000 songs that have been released on Rock Band for gamers to play along with. The song was announced at PAX East during a party hosted by Harmonix. The developer also said that the song they’ll be releasing will be the full 8-minute version.

Harmonix says they have several new titles in development, and they want to start putting more focus on those in the future, which means that they have to give up some of their time and resources from other games, and Rock Band just so happened to get the ax this time around. No further plans for Rock Band have been discussed, but we’re guessing the series will be no more after the ending of the DLC.

[via Polygon]

Harmonix has managed to release weekly content for Rock Band for 275 consecutive weeks containing over 4,000 songs in total. However, the developer has been scaling back production of Rock Band DLC as they are beginning to make the transition to other projects. Harmonix says they have several new titles in development, and they want to start putting more focus on those in the future. However, no future Rock Band releases are planned.

From now until April 2, Harmonix will release the rest of the Rock Band Blitz songs, as well as various “Pro Guitar” upgrades, as well as songs by artists that have not previously appeared in a Rock Band title. From here on out, Harmonix will not be licensing anymore songs, and will take the rest of the time to roll out the songs that they already have licenses for.

Claiming the largest music library of any game available, Harmonix will be continuing its ongoing DLC sale of 50% off over 1,100 songs as a personal thank you to all the fans who helped make the DLC possible, and to help players continue to build their personal libraries from the back catalog.

Even more interesting is what Harmonix had to say to Kotaku when questioned about the job ad. Though Harmonix’s John Drake didn’t get into specifics about this new game, he did confirm that Harmonix is currently working on it, and that this is just one of “multiple new IPs” the studio is working on. Drake ended his statement to Kotaku by saying that “Harmonix is making new kickass IPs, some portion of which may have some combat.”

So, Harmonix is definitely working on a new single-player IP that involves combat in some capacity, and it seems that the studio is pretty excited about it. Unfortunately, don’t expect to hear much more about this new IP anytime soon; given the fact that it’s intended for next generation consoles, we definitely won’t be getting a reveal before the next Xbox and PlayStation have been announced. That is, of course, unless this is a Wii U exclusive, in which case a reveal may not be that far off.

Speculation about reveal dates and platforms is all well and good, but to be honest, we’re just excited to see what Harmonix can do outside of the rhythm genre. The vast majority of Harmonix’s games have been related to the genre in one way or another, and while most of those games have been great, the rhythm genre can be pretty restricting. It’s clear the team at Harmonix is very talented, and as far as we’re concerned, it’s long past time that those talents be put toward something fresh and exciting.

To accompany this release date announcement, Harmonix also revealed 11 new songs that will be included in Dance Central 3. Brace yourself, because the list that follows is quite a doozy:

• 2NE1 – “I Am The Best (Original Version)”
• Alice Deejay – “Better Off Alone”
• Backstreet Boys – “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)”
• J.J. Fad – “Supersonic”
• Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz ft. Ying Yang Twins – “Get Low”
• LMFAO – “Sexy And I Know It”
• Los Del Rio – “Macarena (Bayside Boys Mix)”
• Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera – “Moves Like Jagger”
• Vanilla Ice – “Ice Ice Baby”
• Vicki Sue Robinson – “Turn The Beat Around”
• Village People – “Y.M.C.A.”

Yes, that’s the Backstreet Boys, Vanilla Ice, and the Village People all included on the same list. If you find that Dance Central 3‘s catalog of songs isn’t quite to your liking, never fear, because you’ll have the ability to import the songs from the first two Dance Central games as well. There’s a fee associated with the track import, but considering it cost $5 to import tracks into Dance Central 2, we’re thinking the fee isn’t going to be substantial.

Want to find out more about the zany story mode in Dance Central 3? We can’t blame you if you just want to dance, but for those who are curious, take a look at the new DC3 developer diary above. In it, Harmonix developers struggle to explain the story while maintaining a straight face, going into absurd detail about who is sending you into the past and why you need to time travel in the first place (spoiler: you’re going into the past to help solve dance crimes). Dance Central 3 looks like it’s going to be a blast – ridiculous story and all – so look for it on Xbox 360 when it launches on October 16!

Despite having that familiar Rock Band look, Rock Band Blitz is something of a departure for the series. Instead of using those clunky instrument controllers required by Rock Band proper, Rock Band Blitz has players using a standard controller to hit the notes. Truth be told, Rock Band Blitz seems to have more in common with Frequency and Amplitude, two earlier Harmonix titles, than it does with Rock Band.

If you’re like me and you’ve spent more money than you care to count on DLC tracks for the Rock Band series, never fear – Harmonix says that all of those DLC tracks will work in Rock Band Blitz. The game itself comes with 20 tracks, four of which were announced today: “So Far Away” by Avenged Sevenfold, “Jungle Boogie” by Kool & The Gang, “We Are Young” by Fun, and “Sing” by My Chemical Romance. Finally, all of the songs found in Rock Band Blitz are also playable in Rock Band 3, so that’s a nice little bonus in exchange for your $15.

[via Eurogamer]

Rock Band Blitz will be a much simpler affair, with casual gaming at the center of its focus. It will be a downloadable game that users can grab from the Xbox Live Marketplace or the Playstation Store on PS3. Harmonix calls the impending game “a new way to experience your favorite Rock Band songs, with fast-paced, multi-track arcade gameplay that encourages you to compete against your friends for the highest scores.”

The new title comes with 20 music tracks that have never graced a Rock Band title before, including songs from Blink 182, Foster the People, Quiet Riot, and Rick Springfield (that’s right; Jessie’s Girl is finally coming to Rock Band). Like other titles in the franchise, the tracks are cross-compatible with other Rock Band games, meaning you can play songs that you downloaded for Rock Band 2 in Rock Band Blitz, and you can play the Rock Band Blitz songs in Rock Band 3.

[via Joystiq]

On Chan’s resume, it mentions the game is being developed as a downloadable title for the Xbox 360 and PS3, with the unlikely pairing of Facebook as well. It’s unclear if the three will have some sort of interconnected social communication or if the Facebook version will simply stand on its own. Nevertheless, it is a curious revelation. After all, Harmonix is not exactly known for making downloadable games. Its high-concept projects are grandiose and live on for years through sequels and fresh content.

After Chan’s resume change was spotted, Harmonix was soon to reply that it had not announced anything and would not confirm the new title. However, a spokesperson for the developer did not deny it either, and was instead quoted as saying there are a number of different games in the pipeline. So far we have also heard of an upcoming Nintendo 3DS and PlayStation Vita title. Beyond that, who knows what the next move is for Harmonix?

[via Joystiq]

While this means that DLC is still planned for the games, it also confirms that if Harmonix chooses, they can issue new releases with the franchise titles. So, there’s the option for a Dance Central 2 coming from Harmonix, and not any other developer that Vaicom chooses. Furthermore, distribution agreements with Microsoft for Dance Central, along with Mad Catz and EA for Rock Band have not been affected.

As Joystiq sees it, Harmonix just doesn’t need Viacom’s backing anymore. With the music game market a substantial part of gaming, and Harmonix’s name tied to it, they no longer need Viacom’s presence or licensing muscle to make games, or get content. Harmonix has put in the work to build relationships on their own, especially over the last four years, and therefore they simply have what it takes to break way from Viacom, and they succeeded.

[via Joystiq]

John Drake, Harmonix’s PR representative, made an official statement on the company’s Rock Band forums, after Viacom officially came forward and announced the separation. His main point was to promise that the developer would continue to support released titles, and that the DLC schedule (for Rock Band) they’ve stuck to will not suffer because of this transition for the company.

In closing, Drake made a favorable mention of Viacom, saying that they’ve been a great house for the developer to call home over the last four years, and have allowed them to work with talents like AC/DC, The Beatles, Green Day, and The Who. In essence, Drake is saying that the separation between the two entities is one that they’ve both come to terms with, and it’s good. And, as a tease, Drake also mentioned upcoming projects that he is sure “you’re going to be pumped about.” So, stay tuned, as Harmonix isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

[via Joystiq]

Harmonix has announced that it is promoting Rock Band Nights for bars in America. The new program is intended to allow bar owners to host Rock Band Nights to take things one-step above plain karaoke. Harmonix has a website for bars set up and will be taking bar registrations.

Once bars are registered, bar flies looking for a watering hole where they can play some Rock Band will be able to search by zip code. To promote the Rock Ban nights Harmonix will be offering bar owners a complete Rock Band package along with music and presumably the TVs, software, and controllers needed. Bar owners who sign up before September 8 will get a free five-track disc to add to their library.

The new “Track Pack” will be available for all the major systems including PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and the Wii. It features the hits from numerous country artists including Shania Twain and more.

You can get this song update starting on July 21 for $29.99. The complete track listing for the country-themed add-on follows:

1. Alan Jackson- “Good Time”
2. Brad Paisley- “Mud on the Tires”
3. Brooks & Dunn- “Hillbilly Deluxe”
4. Cross Canadian Ragwee- “Cry Lonely”
5. Dierks Bentley- “Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go)”
6. Dixie Chicks- “Sin Wagon ”
7. Drive-By Truckers- “3 Dimes Down”
8. Jason Aldean- “She’s Country”
9. Keith Urban- “I Told You So”
10. Kenny Chesney- “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy”
11. Kenny Rogers- “The Gambler”
12. Lucinda Williams- “Can’t Let Go”
13. Martina McBride - “This One’s For The Girls”
14. Miranda Lambert- “Gunpowder & Lead”
15. Montgomery Gentry- “Gone”
16. Rascal Flatts- “Me and My Gang”
17. Sara Evans- “Suds In The Bucket”
18. Shania Twain- “Any Man of Mine”
19. Steve Earle- “Satellite Radio”
20. Trace Adkins- “Swing”
21. Willie Nelson- “On the Road Again”

Some gamers have found that their PSP’s GAME folder is wiped after the exit the pirated version, while others have reported the same thing happening once the PSP is power cycled.  Meanwhile others are claiming to experience trouble playing music or having their PSP hang unexpectedly since loading Rock Band Unplugged.

Obviously SlashGear does not condone software piracy, and recommends that to avoid any issues with your PSP you wait until Rock Band Unplugged is officially released.  The game will hit shelves on June 9th, priced at $40. 

[via technabob]

This replica guitar controller looks just like the bass Sir Paul McCartney used to play. However, this one is meant for right-handed folks, even though Sir Paul is a leftie. The controller adds to the already wide selection of controllers lined up for the game’s release including Gretsch Duo-Jet guitars and a Rickenbacker 325.

Regardless if you get the game for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 or the Wii, you will be able to use the Höfner guitar controller. We don’t know how much the accessory will cost just yet, though it’s likely to be in the same $100 range as the others. Expect the game and controllers to launch on September 9th, though you can pre-order it now.

What is better than reading about all the great news we covered this week? Winning a FREE SMARTPHONE! That’s right, SlashGear is one of 26 ways to win a free Pantech Matrix Pro smartphone and $100 in AT&T store credit! Sign up for our forums, and enter in this thread, explaining which is better: a tactile QWERTY keyboard, or touchscreen QWERTY keyboard. Hurry up though, because we pick the winner on April 22nd.

Microsoft will release Windows Mobile 6.5 next month on May 11th. That’s good news for anyone who has an aversion to anything iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, Symbian or webOS…which is who exactly?

A sad day for the digital-swashbucklers of this world…or at least the internet. The Pirate Bay administrators were found guilty of facilitating illegal music and movie downloading through their completely legal website. The Pirate Bay will remain up and running however for all of your bit torrent needs.

Apple will not be launching a CDMA version of the iPhone on Verizon, at least not until they get their LTE network up and running. Apple is ending their contract with AT&T (if AT&T doesn’t manage to extend it) and many thought that Apple might take it to Verizon. However, Verizon has shot down the hopes of an iPhone on Big Red, claiming that Apple was unwilling to work with Verizon until their next-gen network is established. That means 2011 at the earliest.

I’m pretty sure every text-loving cell phone owner out there knows this, but T-Mobile announced the next generation Sidekick, the Sidekick LX, to follow up to the popular QWERTY phone with the iconic swivel design. Paris Hilton already thinks it’s hot, but you have to wait until May 13th to get your hands on it. T-Mobile customers can pre-order now though, if they wish.

I don’t care what anyone says, George Harrison was the best Beatle. And for aspiring Mop-Tops, you can get your chance to impersonate your favorite legendary rock star with The Beatles’ Rock Band Bundle. Nothing quite like rocking out to Yellow Submarine on a plastic drum set fashioned à la Ringo.

I got to check out the HP dv2 with the new portable Blu-ray drive. I’m in the process of running some video game tests on it, but if you want to see some first impressions, hit up the video. I apologize for the audio. (I need a new camera. Any suggestions?)

Speaking of video, I also got to unbox the Samsung Tocco S8300, a new phone that was shipped to me in a crate from Korea. For some Home Depot un-crating action, and hands on impression (not to mention better audio for the video) check it out here.

And on the thread of Samsung, word has hit the blogs that Samsung is planning to launch three new phones running, wait for it, Android. Who saw that one coming? Hopefully all of you since practically every carrier and manufacturer this side of Apple promised to make at least ONE Android device. About time.

I was skeptical at first, but have since rescinded my statements of doubt, about the pictures of the Palm Pre in the wild. Apparently, two random kids had Palm Pre phones and were using them to take pictures of a parade in San Francisco, probably violating NDA, not that they necessarily had to sign one to begin with. Who knows what Palm is doing with all those celebrities who are getting them (or turning them down). I’m happy that at least some average kids get the chance to have some fun…now what about the people who happen to write for tech blogs and can spread the word about the Pre to millions of readers for free advertising? Why no love for us?

That was the week in tech news, and if you’re reading this, congratulations. You’ve won a prize: my appreciation and gratitude for your readership.

Dubbed the Limited Edition Premium Bundle, The Beatles: Rock Band set up will include a guitar controller, a drum set and a microphone. But what’s cool is that the guitar will look like Paul McCartney’s Hofner Bass and the drums will look like Ringo Starr’s Ludwig drum set.

Supposedly there will also be “additional special content” but what that is to include we simple don’t know yet. You will be able to get this new bundle starting on September 9th for about $250 for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and the Wii.

The title will not be a part of the Rock Band series, as previously thought and will instead be a separate game. This game will be devoted to the Beatles and the Beatles only, and will include much of their music throughout the years. Due sometime in late 2009, the game is supposed to bring more people to Beatles’ music and help a new generation get to know them.

Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Star contributed to the project as did Yoko Ono Lennon and Olivia Harrison. In other news, an online store release of their music is also expected in either late 2008 or sometime next year. Good to know that the Fab Four will be included in all of these modern endeavors.

Harmonix has confirmed that the Wii version of the game will be full-featured like the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions. Yes, this also means online play and downloadable content.

This of course raises the question of how Harmonix has managed to overcome the storage limitation for the Wii. Are we simply going to have to delete songs as we want new ones, or is there finally going to be some sort of storage alternative?

[via Game|Life]

• Mötley Crüe “Face Down in the Dirt”
• Buckcherry “Rescue Me”
• Sixx:A.M. “Life Is Beautiful”

• System of a Down “B.Y.O.B”
• System of a Down “Toxicity”

The Crüefest tracks are going to only set you back $.99 for the next month, however, after that you’ll need to shell out $1.99 each. As for the System of a Down songs, they’ll run you the regular $1.99 price.

• Scars on Broadway “They Say”
• Staind “This Is It”
• The New No2  “Yomp”

• Testament “Electric Clown”

The first three tracks are all new singles that will be available at the same time (or before) you can buy the album. Electric Clown from Testament is the only track which isn’t brand spanking new. In fact, it was released way back in 1992. You can pick up Yomp for the low price of $.99, while the other three will set you back the usual $1.99.

Nine Inch Nails 3-pack:

• NIN “Burn”
• NIN “Capital G”
• NIN “Last”

• Shinedown “Devour”
• Shinedown “Junkies For Fame”

I always welcome more Nine Inch Nails to my set list, especially when the songs are spread out from a few different albums. We’ll be able to grab the 3-pack for the usual $5.49, or individual tracks for $1.99. The Shinedown tracks will only be available individually for $1.99.

1. AC/DC “Let There Be Rock” 1970s
2. AFI “Girl’s Gone Grey” 2000’s
3. Alanis Morissette “You Oughta Know” 1990’s
4. Alice in Chains “Man in the Box” 1990’s
5. Allman Brothers “Ramblin’ Man” 1970’s
6. Avenged Sevenfold “Almost Easy” 2000’s
7. Bad Company “Shooting Star” 1970’s
8. Beastie Boys “So Whatcha Want” 1990’s
9. Beck “E-Pro” 2000’s
10. Bikini Kill “Rebel Girl” 1990’s
11. Billy Idol “White Wedding Pt. I” 1980’s
12. Blondie “One Way or Another” 1970’s
13. Bob Dylan “Tangled Up in Blue” 1970’s
14. Bon Jovi “Livin’ on a Prayer” 1980’s
15. Cheap Trick “Hello There” 1970’s
16. Devo “Uncontrollable Urge” 1980’s
17. Dinosaur Jr. “Feel the Pain” 1990’s
18. Disturbed “Down with the Sickness” 2000’s
19. Dream Theater “Panic Attack” 2000’s
20. Duran Duran “Hungry Like the Wolf” 1980’s
21. Elvis Costello “Pump It Up” 1970’s
22. Fleetwood Mac “Go Your Own Way” 1970’s
23. Foo Fighters “Everlong” 1990’s
24. Guns N’ Roses “Shackler’s Revenge” 2000’s
25. Interpol “PDA” 2000’s
26. Jane’s Addiction “Mountain Song” 1980’s
27. Jethro Tull “Aqualung” 1970’s
28. Jimmy Eat World “The Middle” 2000’s
29. Joan Jett “Bad Reputation” 1980’s
30. Journey “Anyway You Want It” 1970’s
31. Judas Priest “Painkiller” 1990’s
32. Kansas “Carry On Wayward Son” 1970’s
33. L7 “Pretend We’re Dead” 1990’s
34. Lacuna Coil “Our Truth” 2000’s
35. Linkin Park “One Step Closer” 2000’s
36. Lit “My Own Worst Enemy” 1990’s
37. Lush “De-Luxe” 1990’s
38. Mastodon “Colony of Birchmen” 2000’s
39. Megadeth “Peace Sells” 1980’s
40. Metallica “Battery” 1980’s
41. Mighty Mighty Bosstones “Where’d You Go” 1990’s
42. Modest Mouse “Float On” 2000’s
43. Motorhead “Ace of Spades” 1980’s
44. Nirvana “Drain You” 1990’s
45. Norman Greenbaum “Spirit in the Sky” 1960’s
46. Panic at the Disco “Nine in the Afternoon” 2000’s
47. Paramore “That’s What You Get” 2000’s
48. Pearl Jam “Alive” 1990’s
49. Presidents of the USA “Lump” 1990’s
50. Rage Against the Machine “Testify” 1990’s
51. Ratt “Round & Round” 1980’s
52. Red Hot Chili Peppers “Give it Away” 1990’s
53. Rise Against “Give it All” 2000’s
54. Rush “The Trees” 1970’s
55. Silversun Pickups “Lazy Eye” 2000’s
56. Smashing Pumpkins “Today” 1990’s
57. Social Distortion “I Was Wrong” 1990’s
58. Sonic Youth “Teenage Riot” 1980’s
59. Soundgarden “Spoonman” 1990’s
60. Squeeze “Cool for Cats” 1970’s
61. Steely Dan “Bodhitsattva” 1970’s
62. Steve Miller Band “Rock’n Me” 1970’s
63. Survivor “Eye of the Tiger” 1980’s
64. System of a Down “Chop Suey” 2000’s
65. Talking Heads “Psycho Killer” 1970’s
66. Tenacious D “Master Exploder” 2000’s
67. Testament “Souls of Black” 1990’s
68. The Donnas “New Kid in School” 2000’s
69. The Go-Go’s “We Got the Beat” 1980’s
70. The Grateful Dead “Alabama Getaway” 1980’s
71. The Guess Who “American Woman” 1970’s
72. The Muffs “Kids in America” 1990’s
73. The Offspring “Come Out & Play (Keep ‘em Separated)” 1990’s
74. The Replacements “Alex Chilton” 1980’s
75. The Who “Pinball Wizard” 1960’s

Bonus Tracks
76. Abnormality “Visions” 2000’s
77. Anarchy Club “Get Clean” 2000’s
78. Bang Camaro “Night Lies” 2000’s
79. Breaking Wheel “Shoulder to the Plow” 2000’s
80. The Libyans “Neighborhood” 2000’s
81. The Main Drag “A Jagged Gorgeous Winter” 2000’s
82. Speck “Conventional Lover” 2000’s
83. The Sterns “Supreme Girl” 2000’s
84. That Handsome Devil “Rob the Prez-O-Dent” 2000’s

Yes, AC/DC is making their debut to Rock Band. There are so many great songs on here that I don’t even know where to begin (Though there’s no way in hell I’m going to be able to hit that scream at the beginning of Master Exploder). What’s more, every single song is a master track. No crappy covers here!

We still don’t have all of the details, but we know that most of the on-disc tracks from Rock Band 1 will be available to those who have the first game. You will be able to pay a small (less than $5) fee to have the tracks exported to your copy of RB2. We’ll keep you posted on this as the list of available tracks has not yet been finalized.

Strangely the patents in question relate to imulated musical instruments, a music-game system and a “musical-rhythm matching game.” Now that would easily cover Guitar Hero, which was first released in 2005. This brings up two very interesting questions. First, why take three years to file a suit, and why leave Guitar Hero out of the suit in the first place.

My guess is that since Konami is gearing up to release their Rock Revolution later this year, they are looking to put the hurt on Rock Band. Unfortunately I doubt it is going to work. While Konami’s rhythm games have been popular in Japan (aside from Karaoke Revolution, which has been popular here in the states) there is just no way they can compete with the user base of both Guitar Hero and Rock Band.

As to the validity of their claims, I’m no lawyer, so I really can’t say. So far there has been no word from Harmonix regarding the suit.

[via Bloomberg]

• “Ace of Spades” — Motörhead
• “Everlong” — Foo Fighters
• “Pinball Wizard” — The Who
• “Panic Attack” — Dream Theater
• “Any Way You Want It” — Journey
• “Chop Suey” — System of a Down
• “Kids in America” — The Muffs
• “Give It Away” — Red Hot Chili Peppers
• “Hello There” — Cheap Trick
• “Pump It Up” — Elvis Costello

Those tracks are definitely enough to get me excited about the game. But music isn’t the only thing that will be new. First, Band World Tour is going online, which has been a highly requested feature of the game. They’ve also gotten rid of the Band Leader, allowing you to swap out members of the band as you see fit.

Something else that I’ve been looking forward to is the ability have one character switch between each of the instruments. No longer will I need to have three separate characters for my solo tours. Speaking of the Solo Tour mode, it has been revamped to a nonlinear Tour Challenge, which can be played solo, or with a full band (with members online or local).

Quick Play is even getting some love with the ability to create setlists. This way you can set up a few songs in advance, rather than selecting a new song every time one is completed.

The instruments aren’t getting a complete overhaul, but they are getting a few upgrades. The guitar will be wireless out of the box, and will feature a sturdier strum bar, and the ability to auto-sync with your TV to minimize lag. The drum pads will not only be quieter, but will be velocity-sensitive, so that you can a louder or softer sound, depending on how you hit them.

There is likely still more to be announced at E3, so stay tuned for more info. It has been suggested that before the event is over, we should know the entire set list for the game.

[via GameSpot]

According to the listing on Amazon, the Xbox 360 drum kit will in fact be wireless. The page also suggests that the retail price will be $89.99.

One might wonder why we would need a wireless set of drums. After all, they just sit there, so what’s the big deal? After getting out and putting away my kit a few hundred times, I can honestly say I seriously want something wireless. Amazon says we’ll be getting them September 14.

[via Kotaku]

Version 1

1.AC/DC – Let There Be Rock
2. AFI – Girl’s Gone Grey
3. Alanis Morissette – You Oughta Know
4. Alice in Chains – Man in the Box
5. Allman Brothers – Ramblin’ Man
6. Avenged Sevenfold – Almost Easy
7. Bad Company – Shooting Star
8. Beastie Boys – So Whatcha Want
9. Beck – E-Pro
10. Bikini Kill – Rebel Girl
11. Billy Idol – White Wedding Pt I
12. Blondie – One Way or Another
13. Bob Dylan – Tangled Up in Blue
14. Bon Jovi – Livin’ on a Prayer
15. Cheap Trick – Hello There
16. Devo – Uncontrollable Urge
17. Dinosaur Jr. – Feel the Pain
18. Disturbed – Down with the Sickness
19. Donnas, The – New Kid in School
20. Dream Theater – Panic Attack
21. Duran Duran – Hungry Like the Wolf
22. Elvis Costello – Pump it Up
23. Fleetwood Mac – Go Your Own Way
24. Foo Fighters – Everlong
25. Go-Go’s, The – We Got the Beat
26. Grateful Dead, The – Alabama Getaway
27. Guess Who, The – American Woman
28. Guns N’ Roses – Shackler’s Revenge
29. Interpol – PDA
30. Jane’s Addiction – Mountain Song
31. Jethro Tull – Aqualung
32. Jimmy Eat World – The Middle
33. Joan Jett – Bad Reputation
34. Journey – Anyway You Want It
35. Judas Priest – Painkiller
36. Kansas – Carry On Wayward Son
37. L7 – Pretend We’re Dead
38. Lacuna Coil – Our Truth
39. Linkin Park – One Step Closer
40. Lit – My Own Worst Enemy
41. Lush – De-Luxe
42. Mastodon – Colony of Birchmen
43. Megadeth – Peace Sells
44. Metallica – Battery
45. Mighty Mighty Bosstones – Where’d You Go
46. Modest Mouse – Float On
47. Motorhead – Ace of Spades
48. Muffs, The – Kids in America
49. Nirvana – Drain You
50. Norman Greenbaum – Spirit in the Sky
51. Offspring, The – Come Out & Play (Keep ‘em Seperated)
52. Panic at the Disco – Nine in the Afternoon
53. Paramore – That’s What You Get
54. Pearl Jam – Alive
55. Presidents of the USA – Lump
56. Rage Against the Machine – Testify
57. Ratt – Round & Round
58. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Give it Away
59. Replacements, The – Alex Chilton
60. Rise Against – Give it All
61. Rush – The Trees
62. Silversun Pickups – Lazy Eye
63. Smashing Pumpkins – Today
64. Social Distortion – I Was Wrong
65. Sonic Youth – Teenage Riot
66. Soundgarden – Spoonman
67. Squeeze – Cool for Cats
68. Steely Dan – Bodhitsattva
69. Steve Miller Band – Rock’n Me
70. Survivor – Eye of the Tiger
71. System of a Down – Chop Suey
72. Talking Heads – Psycho Killer
73. Tenacious D – Master Exploder
74. Testament – Souls of Black
75. Who, The – Pinball Wizard
– BONUS SONGS (all Harmonix bands)
76. Abnormality – Visions
77. Anarchy Club – Get Clean
78. Bang Camaro – Night Lies
79. Breaking Wheel – Shoulder to the Plow
80. Libyans, The – Neighborhood
81. Main Drag, The – A Jagged Georgeous Winter
82. Speck – Conventional Lover
83. Sterns, The – Supreme Girl
84. That Handsome Devil – Rob the Prez-O-Dent

Version 2

1)Tangled Up in Blue (Bob Dylan)
2) Bad to the Bone (George Thorogood)
3) We’ve Got the Beat (Go-Gos)
4) Bad Reputation (Joan Jett)
5) Pinball Wizard (The Who)
6) Dammit (Blink 182)
7) That’s What You Get (Paramore)
8) The Trees (Rush)
9) Ace of Spades (Motorhead)
10) Chop Suey (System of a Down)
11) Testify (Rage Against the Machine)
12) Spirit In the Sky (Norman Greenbaum)
13) Ramblin’ Man (Allman Brothers)
14) Rebel Girl (Bikini Kill)
15) Eye of the Tiger (Survivor)
16) Panic Attack (Dream Theater)
17) Everlong (Foo Fighters)
18) One Step Closer (Linkin’ Park)
19) Lump (Presidents of the USA)
20) Come Out and Play (Offspring)
21) Drain You (Nirvana)
22) Carry On Wayward Son (Kansas)
23) Peace Sells (Megadeath)
24) Souls of Black (Testament)
25) Livin’ On a Prayer (Bon Jovi)
26) Round and Round (Ratt)
27) New Kid In School (The Donnas)
28) Alright Now (Free)
29) Today (Smashing Pumpkins)
30) Man In the Box (Alice In Chains)
31) Any Way You Want It (Journey)
32) Holiday In Cambodia (Dead Kennedys)
33) Give It Away (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
34) White Wedding (Billy Idol)
35) Hello There (Cheap Trick)
36) Cool for Cats (Squeeze)
37) Psycho Killer (Talking Heads)
38) ? (Devo)
39) One Way or Another (Blondie)
40) De-luxe (Lush)
41) Push It (Static-X)
42) Pump It Up (Elvis Costello)
43) Master Exploder (Tenacious D)
44) Bandages (Hot Hot Heat)
45) PDA (Interpol)
46) My Own Worst Enemy (Lit)
47) Float On (Modest Mouse)
48) Aqualung (Jethro Tull)
49) Spoonman (Soundgarden)
50) Bodhisattva (Steely Dan)
51) Suffer (Bad Religion)
52) I Was Wrong (Social Distortion)
53) American Woman (The Guess Who)
56) You Oughta Know (Alanis Morrissette)
57) Mountain Song (Jane’s Addiction)
58) Stop! (Against Me)
59) Hungry Like the Wolf (Duran Duran)
60) Alabama Getaway (Grateful Dead)

So which one is right? I honestly couldn’t tell you, but I can’t imagine the first one being correct. What really strikes me as odd (aside from the strange GnR song that no one seems to know much about) is the lack of bonus songs. For the enlarged setlist, I’d think they would feature more than 9 bonus tracks. Also, where’s the Freezepop?

The entire track listing is supposed to be debuted at E3, so we’ll know soon enough. However, I’m sure we’ll continue to hear more “confirmed” tracks in the days leading up to the event.

[via Joystiq]

Ever since it was announced that Guitar Hero IV would include a feature for creating your own tracks, people have been wondering whether or not the next Rock Band would have something simple. Unfortunately this will not be the case.

It seems that the Harmonix crew is concerned more with perfecting the rest of the game than adding in this particular feature. Don’t get them wrong, they’re still highly interested in adding user-created music, they just don’t thing that they’ll be able to accomplish in the way they want to this time around. I guess the old adage “if you can’t do something right, don’t do it at all” applies.

[via PS3 Fanboy]

According to Harmonix, the game is set to ship in September, but just for the 360. It will be shipping for the other consoles (PS2, PS3, Wii) “later in the year.” So why is the 360 getting a head start? Apparently it’s because “Microsoft has been a great partner throughout the launch of Rock Band in the last year and their continued support is instrumental in supporting the more advanced features and cross title compatibility we will have in Rock Band 2.”

I have my own little theory as to why the other consoles, specifically the PS3 is getting hosed here. It might seem a little far-fetched, but bear with me. The Wii and PS2 versions are likely being worked on by a separate group, so a later release is of no surprise. However, why put of the PS3 launch?

Remember back when PS3 users were in an uproar over the incompatibility issues with their Guitar Hero III Les Paul? Harmonix worked hard on issuing a patch that would make the game recognize the LP controller. However, Sony decided to block the patch at the request of Activision. So what if the delayed launch was a nice big middle finger in the direction of Sony?

Of course it could just be that development for the PS3 is going to take a bit longer, and rather than holding back the release of the Xbox 360 version, they are getting at least one out ahead of Guitar Hero: World Tour. Either way, I’m happy to own an Xbox 360 today.

[via IGN]

Rock Band is a tough act to follow up, however, looking at what Harmonix has been doing over these past few years, there’s no doubt in my mind that they’ll be able to pull it off. My first two questions upon hearing the announcement were “will my DLC work, and will my instruments work?”. The answer to both, was a resounding yes! What’s more is that your system won’t know the difference between RB1 DLC and RB2 DLC. So you can keep rocking new tracks no matter which game you’re playing.

As far as instruments go, they have improved upon the original controllers to make them quieter and more realistic, which is always good. They’re also working with more peripheral makers so that we have a larger selection of instruments to choose from once the game is out.

They are still pretty quiet on most of the new features of the game, but just knowing that my DLC and instruments will work is enough to get me excited. We’ll likely hear more when the game makes its official debut at E3 next month.

[via IGN]

Weezer Pack

• Weezer “Dreamin’”
• Weezer “The Greatest Man That Ever Lived”
• Weezer “Troublemaker”

Pixies Doolittle

• Pixies “Crackity Jones”
• Pixies “Dead”
• Pixies “Debaser”
• Pixies “Gouge Away”
• Pixies “Here Comes Your Man”
• Pixies “Hey”
• Pixies “I Bleed”
• Pixies “La la Love You”
• Pixies “Monkey Gone To Heaven”
• Pixies “Mr Grieves”
• Pixies “No 13 Baby”
• Pixies “Silver”
• Pixies “Tame”
• Pixies “There Goes My Gun”

You’ll be able to pick up the Weezer tracks for $1.99 (160 Microsoft Points) each, or $5.49 (440 Microsoft Points) for the three-pack. As for the Pixies, you’ll also be able to get individual tracks for $1.99 (440 Microsoft Points), though the entire album will set you back $18.99 (1520 Microsoft Points).

This isn’t going to be nearly as lengthy as my typical reviews, because to be honest, it’s Rock Band. The game has been out for a while, and as far as gameplay goes, it’s really the same. There are differences to be noted, such as the lack of character creation and online play, but we’ve known about this for some time also.

First thing I’d really like to note here for those that survied the Guitar Hero III disaster on the Wii, it doesn’t output sound in mono. That’s right, this game (much like every other game in the world) supports stereo sound! Unfortunately there’s no Dolby support, so no surround sound for you.

Hooking up the instruments is pretty simple, just hook up your hub and plug in your drums and mic. As for the guitars, you’ll need to plug in your wireless dongle(s). Press the little button on the dongle and then then one on your guitar and you’re good to go.

All you need to do now is pick your band name and you’re ready to rock. The game from here on out is pretty much the same. You don’t collect money for new clothes and stuff, for obvious reasons. You do have a few extra tracks that weren’t on the original set list for the 360 and PS3, it’s not much, but a few extra tracks are always nice.

So how do the instruments perform? The mic is identical to my 360 version, and the drums are almost the same. The only real difference is two bottom bars connecting the feet together are plastic, and seem to almost hug the ground. This seems to make the kit a little more steady, but otherwise they play just as well as my original set.

I haven’t played the PS3 version of the game much, so I can’t say that I’m quite as familiar with the wireless guitars. However, I can definitely say that the ones included in the Wii bundle are awesome. The wireless reaches at least 25 feet without any signal loss or missed notes (I’d have tested from a greater distance, but I ran out of room). The strum and whammy bars felt good, and the buttons were all responsive. I had no issues activating Overdrive by tilting the neck, either.

Overall, I’m pleased with the port. It really does suck that they weren’t able to get any online features or DLC into the game. I don’t really miss the character creation too much, but then again I haven’t added new clothes to my 360 characters since I initially created them. I give Rock Band for the Wii a solid 4 out of 5 gears.

[rating: 4]

Harmonix and MTV have announced that they are partnering with Q Networks in Japan to create a localized version of the game for the Japanese market. The game will not only feature Japanese musicians, but other aspects (I would guess clothing and venues) are also said to be included.

Seeing that the whole concept of playing a plastic guitar and drums in a video game has been around for years in Japan, it will be really interesting to see how Rock Band fares.

[via Gearlog]

• Blur “Beetlebum”*
• Die Toten Hosen “Hier Kommt Alex
• H-BlockX “Countdown To Insanity”
• Juli “Perfekte Welle”
• Pleymo “New Wave”
• Tokio Hotel “Monsoon”
• Muse “Hysteria”
• Oasis “Rock N Roll Star”
• Les Wampas “Manu Chao”

(*indicates cover song)

I’m not sure if you can technically consider any of these tracks to be “exclusive” to Europe per se, since they are actually being released in the US first. I’m sure that some European gamers will be a little upset at that fact, however, I’m all for the tracks being available to everyone. Then again I’m all for games getting released everywhere at the same time, but we all know that’ll never happen. The tracks will run you the usual $1.99 (160 Microsoft Points) each.

• Blondie “Hanging On The Telephone”
• The Clash “Train in Vain (Stand by Me)”
• Sonic Youth “Kool Thing”

This has to be one of the first times that a trio of songs has been available in a pack together without actually having some cool nickname. Oh well, these three master tracks will be available for the usual $1.99 per track (160 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) or $5.49 (440 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) for the whole deal.

You’ve no doubt rocked out to “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” or “Electric Eye” in Guitar Hero in the past, now you’re going to have the chance to experience them in Rock Band, along with the other 8 tracks off of “Screaming For Vengeance” from Judas Priest. Full  track listing is below.

• “The Hellion”
• “Electric Eye”
• “Riding on the Wind”
• “Bloodstone”
• “(Take These) Chains”
• “Pain and Pleasure&rdquo ;
• “Screaming for Vengeance”
• “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’”
• “Fever”
• “Devil’s Child”

You’ll be able to pick up the individual tracks for $1.99 (160 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) per track or you can snag the full album for $14.99 (1200 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360).

Starting July 1st  Mötley Crüe will be hitting the road on a 40-city summer tour with the likes of Buckcherry, Papa Roach, Sixx: A.M. and Trapt. They are calling this tour Crüe Fest. Much like what was done with Korn and the Family Values tour last year with Guitar Hero II, you’ll be able to rock out with your favorite instrument for a chance to play between sets on stage.

You can bet that I’ll be heading to the show when it comes to Indiana later this year, as it sounds like an awesome time.

First there was Guitar Hero (yes, I’m aware that there were music titles before Guitar Hero, however, the genre really took off with GH) which let you rock out on the guitar. Then came Rock Band which gave you the experience of jamming with a full band. There’s really only one direction left to go. You have to manage a band.

That’s exactly the idea behind this amusing gag by the Harmonix crew. You’ll get everything you need to manage a band, including a branded desk, chair, file cabinet, phone and two pens (for multiplayer fun).

[via CrunchGear]

Come on Nintendo, we need a hard drive. That’s what we want. The whole problem is there’s nowhere to store it. If the platform could do it, we’d jump on it”, he continued. “It’s something that we championed to Nintendo, that we’d like to do it. Who knows what will happen down the line, I don’t know what’s coming down the line, but that’s the reason there’s no DLC in Wii Rock Band

Honestly, it makes perfect sense. There’s no reason to spend all of the time building in the DLC functionality if most users won’t be able to really take advantage of it. Sure, you could buy a big SD card, but it’s hard to expect all of your customers to go out and buy something extra like that. At least he left it open-ended for the future.

[via CVG]

May 23rd is about a month and a half away, which may seem like a long time, but after five months, what’s a little bit longer? As for the PS2, PS3 and Wii versions, you’ll have to wait until “later this summer.” We also have the official price confirmed as well, but you’re not going to like it.

The game itself is going to set you back GBP 49.99 / EUR 69.99. However, there will not be a bundle, so you’ll either need to purchase the instrument pack for 129.99 / EUR 169  which has one of each instrument, or get a guitar for 59.99/EUR 79.99  or a drum kit for 69.99/EUR 89.99.

Personally I am just wondering if you’ll have access to all 5 frets or if they are sticking with the three frets that previous mobile versions have offered up. When you first download the game you’ll get 15 tracks including “Cherub Rock”, “Miss Murder”, “Monsters”, “Suck My Kiss”, and “Trippin On A Hole”.

Then each month they will offer up 3 more tracks that you can download and play. After a year there will be over 50 tracks available for download and up to 150 unique levels spread across 3 difficulties to play through. The game should be available on all 4 major mobile carriers by sometime this month.

[via GuitarHeroMobile]

According tot the lawsuit, Activision agreed to pay Harmonix one of two set amounts for royalties. The higher of the two was to be paid if any further Guitar Hero title “incorporates, uses, or is derived from Harmonix property.” Harmonix claims that despite the fact that their work was used in later titles, they were paid the lesser of two sums.

The lawsuit was filed on Monday and withdrawn on Tuesday. Activision and Harmonix have agreed to settle this one out of court. Hopefully this one doesn’t turn out nasty.

[via MaxConsole]