Guitar International's Robert Cavuoto has issued a new interview with DEF LEPPARD guitarist Phil Collen, in which he discusses what audiences can expect during the band's Las Vegas engagement, and reveales some exciting news that the band is planning to work on so new material while out there. An excerpt follows:

Q: Are you guys doing anything special promotions to kick off the residency shows, say TV shows, warm up gigs, etc?

A: "No, we’re going right into it. I’m going to be releasing my Physical Mechanics Fitness DVD and we’ll do things around that at the same time. As far as Def Leppard, were actually going to be writing some new songs as well while we are out there. We kind of thought while we have everybody out there we would figure out some ideas."

Robert: That exciting news! Do you have any ideas that you are bring to the band?

A: "I’m actually working on the next MANRAZE CD and have about three or four songs. Whenever I start writing for Manraze or Def Leppard I keep writing and let it flow, even if it leads to other musical ideas."

Q: When we last spoke about the Manraze CD, you mentioned you did much of the writing and recording off your laptop using Guitar Rig 4. I’m assuming you can do the same with Def Leppard.

A: "Absolutely, even the last three studio songs on Mirrorball where all done on my laptop. It was great and really cool. Instead of dicking around in the studio, you can go straight to the idea because you can travel around with it. I love it."

Read the full interview at this location.

Due to overwhelming demand, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has extended Def Leppard's exclusive residency, Viva Hysteria!, at The Joint with two additional shows on Friday, April 12th and Saturday, April 13th.

Frontman Joe Elliott states: “We were already very excited by the fact we were getting to play The Joint for nine nights and now because of phenomenal demand, we get to add two more shows! We had a good feeling about Viva Hysteria! but this just confirms the popularity of the band and how much the album means to our fans. Roll on March!”

For all show details head to this location.

Def Leppard has signed on for a special edition of Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp, that will take place April 4th - 7th in Las Vegas, in the midst of the band's eleven show stand at The Joint in the Hard Rock Casino and Hotel.

The group will serve as mentors and instructors, guiding campers through their songs as well as general playing and performing techniques.

- Jam with Def Leppard band members Rick Savage, Joe Elliott, Rick Allen, Phil Collen, and Vivian Campbell
- Play in a band led by a Rock Star counselor
- The Ultimate Fan Experience
- Rehearse and perform live in Las Vegas
- Write and record an original song
- Attend master classes with world renowned musicians
- Have an experience of a lifetime
- All instruments and backline provided
- Use ours or bring your own daily meals with celebrity musicians and campers
- All experience levels welcome. Signup now before it's sold out

Full details at this location.