Damon Johnson may not be green to the music scene, but his debut solo album -- Memoirs of an Uprising -- reintroduces him to the world as a versatile alt-rock performer who can switch between tender and tremendous on a dime. After leaving his previous band Black Star Riders after a soul search, Johnson recorded his solo debut, calling the material on it "the most honest music I've ever made." Johnson has experience working with artists such as Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy, and John Waite, and that influence along with his previous guitar work with Black Star Riders shines on the new record. You might also hear hints of U2 and Chris Cornell if you listen close enough. Johnson will perform at The Basement East on May 8th to support Memoirs of an Uprising; The Winery Dogs will also take the stage that night. Check out the video for "Shivering Shivering", the first single from the record, below. - Will Sisskind