The Naked Truth is an Atlanta, Georgia based quartet originating in the local hardcore scene in 1988, although the individual band members arrived from far afield: vocalist Doug Watts came from Detroit, bassist Jeff from Harlem, New York, and drummer Bernard Dawson from Los Angeles, while Jimmie Westley was the only Georgia native, from Savannah.

Life was initially tough for a black metal band in Georgia, but the dreadlocked group’s singer (D.Watts) caught the interest of former Clash manager Bernie Rhodes, and he helped the band sign to Sony and they relocated to London.

Despite making their name all the way back in the early 90s, the punk metal band is still going strong, and did not let the prejudices against them keep them down- indeed, they put the emotions they felt as a result of this into their music, and it came out in the best way possible! Just wait for the heavy drop. It’s moody, powerful, angry stuff, which is just the perfect sort of blend for the subject matter and music style. Which explains why it’s the featured video and the very first thing you see when you check out their website – no need to overstate anything. Just watch this. It’s all you need to know. Earned confidence.

That not enough for you? Keep reading between the lines. Seek and you shall find! Here’s one of their more popular songs!

But say that music videos aren’t your sorta thing right now. Well, you’re in luck… the band’s Spotify is still here and kicking, and we have a playlist of the best they have to offer all made up, just for you! This band is absolutely iconic, and this playlist is the perfect way to bring that to the modern music world once more!

Chillingly good songs that you can easily bang your head to. Beyond that, check out their social media and official links below, and bring back the good old angry days of 90s metal!

Southpaw are a powerhouse of rock and pop that blend U2, Zeppelin and all things rock from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s into one music blender and then add the cool vocals of Robert Plant with an Island twist and you have Southpaw. Their sound is classic Oz rock from Australia. The Southpaw EP is a break through body of work which has led to a number of commercial placements in Film, TV and cable shows for the songs. Have a listen to “Coast to Coast” and “Windmill Man” when you want to rock the car stereo at warp 10.

Southpaw started back in late 1995 and was formed by Damien Reilly (Bass), Maurice Morgan ( Original Vocalist), Justin Gross (Guitar) and Phuong Nguyen (Drums) and Billy Rogers (Vocals). The name of the band came from Justin who happens to be a left hander and hence the name ” Southpaw “. For those who do not know this, it is a term often used to refer to a boxer who is a left hander. Maurice Morgan was replaced by Billy Rogers for the recording of the bands debut EP. You can listen to the EP below.

Southpaw have been remixed by many leading DJ’s including “The OUTpsiDER” and the band continues to enjoy commercial and digital chart success. For more information on Southpaw you can visit their website at www.southpawmuzik.com.

Sydney band Oohlala formed in early 2005, after bonding on blues and brandy, funk and wine, jamming and gin. Collectively dedicated to their rock’n’roll roots, Oohlala have maintained a steady and regular presence on the live circuit as they strive to deliver their rock ‘n’ roll sermons to all and sundry. Managed by Michael Browning and Sam Righi, this power house team or rock catapulted the band into high rotation on selected FM stations in Australia.

Their debut EP ‘Chop The Mutha Down’ was released in mid 2006 and enjoyed some well deserved chart time in the ARIA top 20, reaching 14 in May 2007. Well received appearances at the Peat’s Ridge and Great Escape festivals have further cemented the band’s growing reputation as a great live act.“…Their songs, musicianship and stage presence could equal any international band that has graced Australian stages…” – The Drum Media, Australian Music Magazine.“…This band is the blackest white band in Sydney. Oohlala is what The Black Crowes would have been today or what Mother Hubbard would been if they had stayed together” – The BRAG, Australian Music Magazine.

A debut album was recorded in late 2007 and released in 2008. The leading single ‘You Gotta Move’ was selected by Sydney’s home of rock Triple M 104.9 as one of five tracks to be considered in securing a support slot for Bon Jovi over two nights at the Acer Arena, Mon 21st and Tue 22nd Jan 2008. Listeners and the station overwhelmingly decided in favour of Oohlala, who won a whole new legion of fans as a result of their arena performances. The shows were so well received that the band were invited back to Triple M to perform acoustic tracks every week on their daily morning program Shebang.

Never mind the ongoing debates about digital piracy and the future of music, the four lads of Oohlala intend to fully uphold the true virtues of rock’n’roll… fun, loose and loud and a sound sympathetic to all beating hearts and dreaming minds. Let there be rock. Sadly the band called it a day back in 2012.

Heaven was a heavy metal band from Sydney, Australia that formed in 1980. The band recorded three albums and toured throughout the United States during the 1980s. The group’s original style was similar to that of AC/DC but in later years went in a more commercial heavy metal direction along the lines of Judas Priest.

The band was originally formed in Adelaide under the name Fat Lip, which featured Scottish-born Allan Fryer, bassist Laurie Marlow, and drummer Joe Turtur. Soon after the band moved to Sydney, AC/DC singer Bon Scott died in London and some unsubstantiated reports suggested that band was considering Fryer as a replacement. Fryer left Fat Lip and returned to Adelaide but he was never called upon to audition. Once back in Sydney, Fat Lip now consisted of Fryer and Marlow, Aldo Civitico (ex-Scandal) on drums and guitarist Bradford Kelly, originally from the band Swanee. Civitico dropped out just before the band signed its record deal, and Turtur joined the band. John Haese was also added as rhythm guitarist.

Shortly afterward, Fat Lip came to the attention of Michael Browning, a Sydney music industry figure who had managed AC/DC in the 1970s and had just started a new record label called Deluxe, to which he had signed INXS. Fat Lip began recording an album for Deluxe, but changed its name to Heaven during the sessions. The album, Twilight of Mischief, was preceded in late 1981 by a single, “Fantasy”, which would go on to enjoy new life in 2018 via new remixes. After “Fantasy”, a second single, “In the Beginning” became the album’s title track when it was released by CBS in the US under that name.

John Haese left Heaven after “In The Beginning” was released and he was replaced by Mick Cocks, formerly of Rose Tattoo. After a successful Australian tour supporting Iron Maiden, the band then went to the United States and also found some success there, particularly on the West Coast and toured with Judas Priest, Mötley Crüe, Black Sabbath and Kiss. They recorded a second album for RCA during 1983 called Where Angels Fear to Tread. The album was supported by a single, “Rock School” that received heavy airplay on MTV, and featured guest contributions from Ronnie James Dio, Lita Ford and Glenn Hughes. After this, Cocks and Turtur left Heaven.

In 1984, Fryer recruited drummer Tommy Dimitroff (in replace of original drummer Ronnie Zade) and returned to America to reform Heaven, this time with ex-Talas guitarist Mitch Perry and New York City musician Mark Cunningham who had most recently been in a band called Cathedral. Dennis Feldman, formerly of Ram-Jam and The Michael Schenker group also joined the new Heaven line-up on bass and the group recorded the album. Columbia A&R man, Mason Munoz, signed the band and recruited Paul O’Neill to produce and co-write the album Knocking on Heaven’s Door. The album’s title track was a heavy metal cover of the Bob Dylan song. However prior to completion, Munoz was replaced by a new A&R representative and Columbia brought in another mixer. After this, Fryer moved to Texas and forged ahead keeping the Heaven name alive with local talent such as Guitarist Perry Parris, Scott Howe, John Paul Dutton, Rodger “bam-bam” Weiss, Bryan Cameron and Timi Heiser. Nye Jones, Scott Cothren and Steve Dainhart recorded Time For Terror. The players from Austin Texas also recorded on the Mötley Crüe Tribute CD Home Sweet Home and was the number one voted song on the CD. The song was written by Allan Fryer and Tommy Lee and dedicated to Vince Neils’ daughter, Skylar Neil who died from cancer. All the CD proceeds went to the Skylar Neil Memorial Fund. On 4 June 2015 it was announced that Heaven’s vocalist, Allan Fryer, had died after a long battle with cancer. He was survived by his daughter, Kallan and four grandchildren.

In the modern era, “Fantasy” has encountered a whole new lease on life since being remixed by Country Boy AKA CB. CB’s incredible hit was released in 2018 and since then the song has viralled through global streaming networks. Fantasy is a summer vibe hip-hop banger that highlights CB’s skills when it comes to lyrics, vocals, and rap flow, and with Heaven’s Aussie hair metal backing up the crazy hooks, who couldn’t fall in love with it? This track was produced by Damien Reilly, Danny Saber, Country Boy, Mal Majik, and Jay Simpson, with beat and lyric collaborations once again featuring the one and only Heaven. Mixing was handled by Chris Garcia and Tom Polce, two legends from LA California. We at Blue Pie records reckon you can hear elements of the Beastie Boys inspiring this incredible track! Both Heaven and CB ought to be proud of this kicker.

The legacy of Heaven endures, entertaining new ears many years after members have left or passed away. Rumour has it that Guns N Roses themselves were influenced by Heaven. Even today, a new live mix of Fantasy is being created with Country Boy and the rest of the crew from the first time around. Fans of Heaven have a lot more listening to do before they themselves ascend to Heaven – because someone who listens to music this rockin’ couldn’t have committed a sin in their life! wink

Dave Evans originally arrived in Australia from Carmarthen Wales, aged five, and settled in North Queensland with his family. After forming his first band “In Session” in Charters Towers when he was 17, he moved to Sydney where he helped form a band (no name yet!) with Malcolm Young, Colin Burgess and Larry van Kriedt. A week later Malcolm’s younger brother Angus joined. Malcolm and Angus’ sister-in-law Sandra came up with the name AC/DC – to signify power and energy – and so one of the greatest rock and roll bands ever was born!

AC/DC’s first gig was at Chequers Nightclub in Sydney on New Years Eve 1973, and the band went on to attract a strong live following in the next few months before recording their first single, “Can I Sit Next To You Girl b/w Rocking In The Parlour.”

At this time Angus started wearing his now-famous schoolboy uniform, and with their single racing up the national charts, AC/DC undertook a grueling tour. It began at the Sydney Opera House and then saw the band playing to packed houses all around Australia. Life on the road is tough for any band, and frictions and egos increased steadily until a punch-up between Evans and their manager made life on tour unbearable. A split between Evans and AC/DC became inevitable. Bon Scott was a friend of Malcolm and Angus’ elder brother George Young, who was a member of the legendary Easybeats (“Friday On My Mind”), and a well-known Australian record producer with Harry Vanda. George had seen the band perform in Adelaide. He agreed to join AC/DC, which was by this stage, one of the most promising, new and exciting rock bands in Australia. He and the band went on to achieve rock and roll immortality as one of the biggest bands in the world.

After parting ways with AC/DC Dave Evans moved to Newcastle just north of Sydney and joined up-and-coming hard rock outfit Rabbit in early 1975. Rabbit were already the number one rock band in Newcastle and the surrounding area. Dave had seen them performing at Chequers nightclub in Sydney and was impressed with their confronting stage presence. It wasn’t long until they had signed with CBS records and recorded their first album “Rabbit” which had some success. In 1976 they recorded the album “Too Much Rock And Roll,” and with their appearances on numerous television pop/rock shows, this album launched them into national popularity.

Rabbit were described as frenetic, violently hedonistic and Dave himself was described as savagely heterosexual. Rabbit after-show parties were always wild affairs and popular with friends, fans and groupies. The “Too Much Rock And Roll” album was then distributed in Japan, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Holland, Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Although sales were steady, Rabbit did not tour these countries as two members left the group after a demanding three month Australian tour. The band continued after adding a new drummer and released the single “Let Me”, but it wasn’t the same feeling without the two original members, and the band folded in 1978. Dave Evans and Thunder Down Under was formed in 1984 and he signed with independent label Reaction Records, then released the album “Dave Evans & Thunder Down Under.”

After Dave Evans and Thunder Down Under split a couple of years later, Dave pursued an acting career with roles in small production Australian films and working in live theatre. In early 2000 Dave was invited to be a special guest for Melbourne AC/DC tribute band Thunderstruck for their 20th anniversary memorial gig for Bon Scott. This special occasion was recorded live and “A Hell of a Night” was released through Perris Records.

The many years that Dave has been with Blue Pie have been truly special. We’ve already surpassed a decade and we’re very much looking forward to more. In 2009, Dave Evans signed a global distribution and publishing agreement with us. The first release for Dave on Blue Pie was his classic rock album “Sinner”. The album is widely regarded as a modern day rock and roll masterpiece. The track “Sinner” was nominated at the LA Music Awards for best rock song. The track “Sold my Soul to Rock n Roll” is the first single to be lifted from the album, and has been promoted to radio and media globally since July 2009.

This single, as well as the rest of his catalogue, is out now and available at all leading digital retailers. Look for Dave Evans at all great music stores across the world.

Danny Vash, a legendary rock artist under the Blue Pie label, left us in November 2020 due to pancreatic cancer. In 2023, his wife has lovingly shared some posthumous music releases, ensuring that his remarkable legacy endures. Here is the inspiring tale of how he became the beloved artist whose music continues to resonate with audiences even today.

Danny Vash, along with the dynamic duo of Nite Wolf from Albuquerque, New Mexico in the southwest of the United States, formed a three-piece power trio renowned for their hard-hitting sound. Danny Vash took the lead with his mesmerizing guitar work and commanding vocals, while Nite Wolf, consisting of Bill Weber on drums and Mike Alberts on bass, layed down the formidable rhythm section. Together, they unleashed a torrent of crunchy riffs, intricate melodies, and classic hard rock anthems. All of the music and lyrics are penned by Danny Vash himself. Their debut album, “Takin’ Control,” was meticulously recorded and produced at their studio, nestled in the scenic Sandia Mountains of New Mexico, showcasing their exceptional musical prowess.

Vash had musical roots that started in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has played with several of northern California’s top hard rock and metal bands, before he moved to the south-west. He has shared the stage with a number of national acts and helped produce CDs for several local musicians in Albuquerque New Mexico. 2015 was a stellar year for the songwriter, as it provided many opportunities for him to belt out mind-bending songs with screaming guitar work, and strong vocals with catchy hooks.

Danny Vash and Nite Wolf paved their way into the global rock scene with their the success of their 2015 release “Takin’ Control”. The first song from the album won “Best hard rock song of the month” award with the Akademea of music in Hollywood California. The band’s fan base was a rolling stone, and gained the trio global notoriety. Their song ‘Passion Dreamer’ was picked up by Berkshire Media Group and affiliates, along with the Akademea of music including radio program directors of various FM networks and worldwide networks. This was one of the key events that has been driving all the radio play for the trio, even after Danny’s passing! With these two great companies behind Vash and friends, radio play happened fast and has not stopped.

All of this activity snowballed into increasing heavy rotation throughout 2015 for “Takin Control”, and the momentum shows no signs of stopping even now. Good music gets played, and we now know that rock has a heart and soul firmly within New Mexico. Vash was committed to pushing his brand of hard edged rock to the world.

In November 2015, Danny was picked up by leading indie label Blue Pie Records USA and was signed to a global distribution and publishing admin agreement. The label dropped the second album in April 2016, called “Hard Life”. The eponymous track of the album was treated to a hectic music video by another of Blue Pie’s excellent multimedia artists, that being the one and only Soularflair.

This prowess has stuck firmly in our minds throughout the years, so that is why it is with heavy hearts we reflect upon Danny Vash’s death. Upon discovering his pancreatic cancer, he was given 6 months to live. Just six months: that estimation proved to be fairly off the mark, as Danny received that news five years before he eventually passed, in November 2020. He was a titan of strength.

Danny Vash was an incredible fighter, and you can hear that best through the outlet of emotional expression that musicians all share, that of course being his music. “Hard Life” in particular tells you all you need to know in the title – he was never without struggles, but he was always a champ when he took them on, even his last struggle ever. He will be sorely missed, and has left behind a lasting rock legacy.