Author Archives: glassonyonpr

2016/02/02

Rick Wakeman Releases Piano Version of Life on Mars in Aid of Macmillan

By glassonyonpr

Bowie and Wakeman

For Immediate Release

Rick Wakeman Releases Piano Version of Life on Mars in Aid of Macmillan

“It was obvious from the listeners’ response to Rick playing ‘Life On Mars’ on Radio 2 Drivetime last Monday, that they wanted to own a copy of this beautiful piece of music, as well as make a contribution. With Rick releasing this new recording it’s a perfect way to do that.”
– BBC Radio 2 presenter, Simon Mayo:

London, UK – Following the overwhelming response to Rick Wakeman’s piano tribute to David Bowie, Rick has recorded new piano versions of both Life on Mars and Space Oddity with royalties going to Macmillan Cancer Support. The tracks are now available from Amazon, as well as iTunes and Tesco.

Rick, a close friend who worked with Bowie, was the pianist on the original 1971 release of Life On Mars and appeared on BBC Radio 2 last Monday (11th January) on the day of Bowie’s death, to play his own tribute to the star. The video of his emotional performance has since been viewed over 2 million times on the BBC Radio 2 website and after receiving thousands of requests from fans, Rick headed back into the studio to re-record the tracks which include Life on Mars, Space Oddity and Always Together.

Rick said: “I feel extremely fortunate to be able to release my piano version of David Bowie’s Life On Mars and Space Oddity, both of which I performed on the original releases. I think it’s very apt for the proceeds to go to Macmillan, a charity that is so crucial to so many people. I witnessed this first hand when I lost my mother to cancer and the work they do comes from the heart and is truly priceless.

“Whilst some amazing advances in medicine mean that some form of cancers have a very high survival rate and indeed prolonged life in others, with all cancers it is a very tough time for both the patient and their loved ones. Hopefully the songs will not only be a fitting tribute to David, but will also raise some money to help Macmillan with the wonderful work they do, ensuring no-one faces cancer alone.”

Jane Maher, Chief Medical Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support, says: “We were so very sad to hear the news about David Bowie and our thoughts are with his family and friends. Sadly the number of people with cancer in the UK is growing rapidly and half of us will face a cancer diagnosis at some point in our lives, so it has never been more important that everyone gets the emotional, practical, physical and financial support they need. We want people to feel comfortable talking openly about what they’re going through with friends, family and experts or – through our online community – other people whose lives have been affected by cancer.

“We know that music is something that not only brings people together, but also helps them through difficult times and so we are deeply grateful that Rick has decided to donate the proceeds from these tracks to Macmillan. The money raised will help us to continue to offer a range of support for anyone affected by cancer.”

For more information or support please visit macmillan.org.uk

To purchase:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/LIFE-MARS-Rick-Wakeman/dp/B01ATOATG6/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1453455316&sr=8-7&keywords=rick+wakeman
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/life-on-mars-single/id1077404186
Tesco: http://www.tesco.com/direct/rick-wakeman-life-on-mars-macmillan-cancer-support-cd/573-5206.prd?skuId=573-5206&pageLevel=sku

Notes to Editors:
About Macmillan Cancer Support
When you have cancer, you don’t just worry about what will happen to your body, you worry about what will happen to your life. Whether it’s concerns about who you can talk to, planning for the extra costs or what to do about work, at Macmillan we understand how a cancer diagnosis can take over everything.

That’s why we’re here. We provide support that helps people take back control of their lives. But right now, we can’t reach everyone who needs us. We need your help to make sure that people affected by cancer get the support they need to face the toughest fight of their life. No one should face cancer alone, and with your support no one will.

To get involved, call 0300 1000 200 today. And please remember, we’re here for you too. If you’d like support, information or just to chat, call us free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am–8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

Rick Wakeman press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in David Bowie, Press Release, Rick Wakeman

2016/02/01

Music Legend Jesse Colin Young Signs Distribution Deal With Audio Fidelity

By glassonyonpr

jcy

For Immediate Release

Music Legend Jesse Colin Young Signs Distribution Deal With Audio Fidelity

Camarillo, CA – Marshall Blonstein’s Audio Fidelity and Jesse Colin Young of Pigfoot Music LLC are pleased to announce a distribution agreement to release 180g vinyl and DVD recordings from the critically acclaimed artist’s highly regarded catalog. While lead singer of The Youngbloods his legendary rock band took the nation by storm when their single Get Together became a worldwide Top 10 hit and a prominent soundtrack for peace.

After seven albums with the group, Young released more than 15 celebrated solo albums including Song for Juli a work many critics agree is his solo masterpiece. This popular album will be the initial Pigfoot Music release to be distributed by Audio Fidelity beginning in April. Following 1971’s Song for Juli four more albums charted over the next three years, Light Shine in 1974, Songbird and On the Road in 1975 and Love on the Wing in 1976. Each of those solo albums contained breakthrough tracks from country fusion to jazz fusion to blues rock that received airplay on radio stations across America.

Jesse’s musical accomplishments are many, including performing with Led Zeppelin, The Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin in 1969; touring with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young in the summer of 1974; from walking off the Johnny Carson show, to singing for Native American rights. Get Together has been heard from the 13X-multi-platinum Forrest Gump soundtrack in 1994 to the widely seen Luv’s commercial in 2010. Darkness Darkness, written by Jesse, was the theme song for the James Cameron movie Ghosts of the Abyss in 2003. A cover of the song by Robert Plant won the Grammy for Best Rock Vocal in 2003 and remains a popular cover song for many bands.

The Queens, NY native recorded his first album, The Soul of a City Boy while living in the Greenwich Village in 1964. He recorded a second album, Young Blood, featuring supporting musicians, including John Sebastian and Peter Childs. After the two solo albums, he then formed The Youngbloods which included guitarist Jerry Corbitt, whom he met on the New York to Boston club circuit, and keyboardist/guitarist Lowell “Banana” Levinger, and drummer Joe Bauer. Get Together appeared on their 1967 debut album and re-released as a single in 1969, after the heartfelt refrain of “Come on people now, smile on your brother” was used as the television theme for the National Council of Christians and Jews.

During the 1970’s, Jesse helped establish the “No Nukes” movement. Involved from the very beginning, he closed the 1979 “No Nukes” concert and movie singing the iconic Youngblood’s anthem Get Together, joined by legends Jackson Browne, Stephen Stills, and Graham Nash. Throughout the 1980’s, Jesse toured as a solo artist, often appearing at fundraisers for various organizations.

Throughout his professional life of recording and touring, Jesse has also taken the time to dedicate his life to giving back to the world. He has performed on behalf of organizations ranging from the Dream Foundation to the Kona Pacific Waldorf School to the Saratoga WarHorse project for veterans. Always holding environmental accountability, care for our returning veterans, and quality education as a moral code of action, Jesse remains committed and active as an individual and performer. Jesse has also been an organic coffee farmer for 25 years.

JESSE COLIN YOUNG DISCOGRAPHY
Album Release Date
The Soul of a City Boy April 1964
Young Blood March 1965
Together March 25, 1972
Song for Juli October 6, 1973
Light Shine April 20, 1974
Songbird March 22, 1975
On the Road March 27, 1976
Love on the Wing April 2, 1977
American Dreams December 9, 1978
The Perfect Stranger 1982
The Highway is for Heroes 1987
Makin’ It Real 1993
Swept Away 1994
Sweetwater 1996
Walk The Talk 2001
Living in Paradise 2004
Celtic Mambo 2005
Bring ‘Em Home 2007
DVD- Out of the Darkness 2015

For more information:
http://www.audiofidelity.net
http://www.jessecolinyoung.com/
http://www.facebook.com/jessecolinyoung, https://www.facebook.com/jessecolinyoungcoffee/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Audio Fidelity, Jesse Colin Young, Press Release

2016/01/29

Jazz/Fusion Legends Mike Clark, James Genus & Dave Stryker To Play The Iridium In NYC – Feb. 10, 2016

By glassonyonpr

Clark Stryker and Genus photos v4

For Immediate Release

Jazz/Fusion Legends Mike Clark, James Genus & Dave Stryker To Play The Iridium In NYC – Feb. 10, 2016

NYC – CLARK GENUS STRYKER feat. Jazz/Fusion legends Mike Clark, James Genus & Dave Stryker will be performing at The Iridium in NYC on Feb. 10, 2016!

Event information:
http://theiridium.com/events/4986/clark-stryker-and-genus-25/
Tickets:
http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?eventId=6376875&pl=iridium&dispatch=loadSelectionData&refid=iridium

Mike Clark – While often referred to as the “Tony Williams of funk,” Mike Clark considers jazz his first love. He gained worldwide recognition as one of America’s foremost jazz and funk drummers while playing with Herbie Hancock in the early seventies. His incisive playing on Hancock’s “Actual Proof” garnered him an international cult following and influenced generations of drummers. Mike has performed with such well-known jazz greats as Herbie Hancock, Christian McBride, Chet Baker, John Scofield, Nicholas Payton, Tony Bennett, Wayne Shorter, Joe Henderson, Eddie Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson, Vince Guaraldi, Woody Shaw, Donald Harrison, Albert King, Larry Coryell, Mike Wolff, Wallace Roney, Billy Childs, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Chris Potter, Bobby McFerrin, Nat Adderly, Oscar Brown Jr., and Gil Evans and his Orchestra. For more information go to http://www.drummermikeclark.com

James Genus – In baseball, “five-tool player” denotes excellence in every aspect of the game—running, throwing, fielding, hitting for average and power. It’s an interesting way to think about the prodigious skills of bass master James Genus, a one-time catcher who eschewed the “tools of ignorance” for music a year before leaving high school. Consider the range of contexts that Genus is navigating during 2013. As electric bassist in the Saturday Night Live house band, his employer since 2000, he propels artists representing a 360-degree range of styles and genres. His pulsing grooves—interlocked with drummer Omar Hakim—animate dance-electronica hitmakers Daft Punk’s chart-topping CD Random Access. With Herbie Hancock, he references an encyclopedic lexicon of harmony and beats on both electric and upright to complement the leader’s anything-goes attitude. For much of this summer and fall he’s showcasing his resonant tone and unfailingly melodic basslines on a world tour with Bob James and David Sanborn behind this year’s Quartette Humaine, on which Genus performed with drum grandmaster Steve Gadd.

Dave Stryker – Whether you’ve heard guitarist Dave Stryker leading his own group (with 26 CD’s as a leader to date), co-leading The Stryker/Slagle Band, or as a featured sideman with Stanley Turrentine, Jack McDuff, and many others, you know why the Village Voice calls him “one of the most distinctive guitarists to come along in recent years.” Dave’s new CD “Messin’ with Mister T”, is a celebration of the man he worked with for over a decade-Stanley Turrentine -with ten of the greatest tenor sax players on the scene today. It went to #1 on JazzWeek Radio and stayed in the Top 50 for 20 weeks and has received great reviews including 4 1/2 stars in Downbeat magazine, which picked it as one of the Top CD’s of the year, ran a feature article on Dave, and recently voted him into the 2015 the DB Critics and Readers Poll for the 8th time. For more info on Dave Stryker go to http://www.davestryker.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Clark Genus Stryker, Dave Stryker, James Genus, Mike Clark, Press Release

2016/01/26

Cajun Country/Folk Legend Doug Kershaw Serves Up A Gumbo Of Vintage Unreleased Demos & Recordings On A New 2CD Anthology!

By glassonyonpr

0109 DOUG KERSHAW med res

For Immediate Release

Cajun Country/Folk Legend Doug Kershaw Serves Up A Gumbo Of Vintage Unreleased Demos & Recordings On A New 2CD Anthology!

Los Angeles, CA – Known worldwide as one of the most important figures in Cajun music, a renowned multi-instrumentalist, master of the fiddle and accordion, distinctive vocalist, and a highly prolific songwriter, Doug Kershaw has spent most of his career mining the rich musical traditions of his home state of Louisiana, from zydeco to Creole-influence country and folk. Now he looks back on his own illustrious career, all the way back to his days performing as a duo with his brother Rusty in the 1950s, though the early years of his budding solo career, and digs up a stunning collection of more than 50 vintage studio recordings and demos. These never-before-released gems will be available to music fans worldwide on February 5 as Anthology – Rare Masters 1958-1969, a superb 2CD set courtesy of Goldenlane Records.

This treasure trove of an album is split between full band demos (comprising Disc 1) and guitar demos (comprising Disc 2), both showcasing not only an amazing vocal and musical dexterity but also a stunning, frequently moving songwriting talent. Often built around a clever, affecting turn of phrase (see “Shake Hands & Come Out Crying,” “I Wish I Had Died As A Baby,” or “It Takes All Day To Get Over Night”), Kershaw’s music may have roots in a specific region but his lyrics speak to the most universal themes of love, family, and good ol’ fashioned human misery. Kershaw’s own enthusiasm for the songs contained herein has not been diminished at all by the passing years. “I am so proud of this compilation,” Kershaw declares, “It’s like exposing my life to the world. I am who I am because you the people allowed me to be!” With an endorsement like that, no self-respecting Kershaw fan will be able to pass this one up!

Track List:
DISC 1
1. Big Mighty Man
2. Didn’t You Hear Me
3. Fais Do Do
4. Two Out Of Three
5. Mary Lou
6. Among Other Things
7. Do Me Right Now
8. A Victim Of Love Gone Wrong
9. Hardly Anymore
10. Give Me Some Girl
11. Am I Lonely Tonight
12. Except
13. Shake Hands & Come Out Crying
14. Pride Versus Love
15. I Can’t Love That Way
16. It Takes All Day To Get Over Night
17. I’m Just A Man Called Sam
18. Before I Start Over
19. Baby’s Gone
20. Ain’t Going To Get Me Down
21. Contract For Misery
22. Around & Around
23. Hollywood to Memphis
24. Future Of Love
25. I Can’t See Myself

DISC 2
1. Love’s Enemy
2. I’m Going To Get Drunk
3. If You’re Not Going To Love Me That’s Alright
4. This Is Our Chance
5. Love Bird
6. There’s A Wall Being Built
7. Mine Is A Lonely Heart
8. That’s What Hurts The Most
9. Misery’s All Gone
10. I Wish I Had Died As A Baby
11. A Ring For My Darlin’
12. Our Love Affair Came Tumbling Down
13. Son Of A Gun
14. My Mind’s In A Fog
15. Just Hurting Me
16. My Memory Of You
17. That’s Alright With Me
18. Mannequin Woman
19. This Is The Strangest Love I’ve Ever Seen
20. That Far Away Look In Your Eyes
21. Pay No Attention
22. This Is The House That I Live In
23. That’s Too Bad About The Summer Night
24. There’s No Better Way
25. Louisiana Sun
26. Little Bo Peep
27. Rosie Come Take Me Home

Buy the box set: http://flyt.it/DougKershawCD
Download on iTunes: http://flyt.it/DougKershawDig

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com

CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
http://www.CleopatraRecords.com

Leave a comment | posted in Doug Kershaw, Press Release

2016/01/26

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US & UK In Support of New DVD Release “Live at The Union Chapel”

By glassonyonpr

Renaissance Live_at_Union_Chapel
For Immediate Release

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US & UK In Support of New DVD Release
“Live at The Union Chapel”

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US & UK in support of their new DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell ‘Tigger’ Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks. A Blu-Ray version is planned in 2016.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/0xVnuRTzN60

Renaissance Winter 2016 US & UK Tour Dates:

USA
Feb 12 – The Birchmere – Alexandria, VA – tickets
Feb 13 – Keswick Theatre – Glenside, PA – tickets
Feb 19 – The Newton Theatre – Newton, NJ – tickets
Feb 26 – Renaissance on the Moody Blues Cruise Miami, FL – tickets

UK – (dates April 17 through 26 with Curved Air)
April 14 – Trading Boundaries – Fletching
April 15 – Trading Boundaries – Fletching
April 17 – Opera House – Buxton
April 18 – The Stables – Milton Keynes
April 19 – Robin 2 – Wolverhampton
April 20 – Academy – Newcastle
April 21 – ABC – Glasgow
April 24 – Academy – Bournemouth
April 26 – Shepherds Bush Empire – London

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band’s career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with ‘Northern Lights’, which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980’s at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch Renaissance’s new video for Cry to the World: https://youtu.be/finJd6nNo84

To purchase Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD: http://renaissancetouring.com/store ;
The DVD will also be sold through Amazon. A signed copy by Annie Haslam will be available through Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” will be available at Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Rdio, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
http://www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
http://www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Renaissance

2016/01/24

“An Evening With Wild Man Fischer” To Be Released On CD For The First Time Ever!

By glassonyonpr

Wildman Fischer cover med res

For Immediate Release

“An Evening With Wild Man Fischer” To Be Released On CD For The First Time Ever!

London, UK – For the first time ever, legendary underground classic “An Evening With Wild Man Fischer” produced by Frank Zappa will be released on CD by Gonzo Multimedia! The album has been out of print for decades and original vinyl copies are highly sought after!

Born Larry Wayne Fischer in Los Angeles, California, Wild Man Fischer was institutionalized at age 16, and later diagnosed with two mental disorders, severe paranoid schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Following his escape from the hospital (he said no one ever bothered to take him back there), Fischer wandered Los Angeles singing his songs a capella for 10 cents each to passers-by. Discovered on the street by Frank Zappa, with whom he recorded his first album in 1968, Fischer became an underground concert favorite. Zappa was responsible for Fischer’s initial foray into the business of recorded music, an album called “An Evening with Wild Man Fischer”, which contained 36 tracks, some of which contained musical accompaniment by Zappa and some of the Mothers of Invention members, and others featured Wildman Fischer solo.

The CD will be released on January 29, 2016

Tracks:
Disc One

The Basic Fischer

1. Merry-Go-Round
2. New Kind of Songs for Sale
3. I’m Not Shy Anymore
4. Are You from Clovis
5. The Madness of Ecstacy Larry’s Songs (unaccompanied)
6. Which Way Did the Freaks Go
7. I’m Working for the Federal Bureau Of Narcotics
8. The Leaves Are Falling
9. 85 Times
10. Cops and Robbers
11. Monkeys Versus Donkeys
12. Start Life over Again
13. The Mope
14. Life Brand New
15. Who Did It Johnny
16. Think of Me When Your Clothes Are Off
17. Taggy Lee
18. Rhonda
19. I Looked Around You
20. Jennifer Jones

Disc Two

Some Historical Notes

1. The Taster
2. Story of the Taster
3. The Rocket Rock
4. Explanation and Dialog
5. Dream Girl
6. Dream Girl Explanation
7. Serrano Beach
8. Success Will Not Make Me Happy
9. Wild Man on the Strip Again

In Conclusion

10. Why Am I Normal
11. Wild Man Fischer Story
12. Balling Isn’t Everything
13. Ugly Beautiful Girl
14. Larry and His Guitar
15. Circle
16. Larry Under Pressure

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15895

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Wild Man Fischer

2016/01/22

US 70’s Proto-Metal Power Trio BANG To Tour Europe For First Time Ever!

By glassonyonpr

BANG Euro tour poster 2016 med res

For Immediate Release

US 70’s Proto-Metal Power Trio BANG To Tour Europe For First Time Ever!

Free Download of “Questions” Now Available!

Philadelphia, PA (USA) – Often called America’s answer to Black Sabbath, one of the most unsung bands in the history of US hard rock music, BANG, is back! With the heaviness of Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, coupled with the groove of Grand Funk Railroad, BANG released three critically acclaimed albums on Capitol Records in the early 1970’s before disappearing for a number of years. 2016 marks the 44th anniversary of BANG’s critically acclaimed debut album and the band is celebrating with a major European tour! This will be the very first tour of Europe for the legendary power trio, which will take them through the UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark. Sweden, Spain and Portugal!

Says lead vocalist and bassist Frank Ferrera, “BANG is extremely grateful for the opportunity to play in front of our European fans…this will be our 1st time overseas and we’re excited to share our music with you…”

Bang European tour dates:

April 14 – Roadburn Festival – Tilburg, The Netherlands
April 15 – Immerhin – Wurzburg, Germany
April 16 – Kulturbahnhof – Jena, Germany
April 19 – Borderline – London, UK
April 20 – Truckstop Alaska – Gothenburg, Sweden
April 21 – OCCII – Amsterdam, Netherlands
April 22 – Bassy – Berlin, Germany
April 23 – Goldgrube – Kassel, Germany
April 24 – Glazart – Paris, France
April 26 – Loppen – Copenhagen, Denmark
April 27 – Grand – Malmo, Sweden
April 28 – Geronimo FT – Stockholm, Sweden
April 29 – Rocksound – Barcelona, Spain
April 30 – Sound Bay Festival – Lisbon, Portugal

To listen/download BANG’s “Questions”:

Says Frank Ferrara, “Needing one more song for the BANG album…we had Questions….our producer didn’t think the song was strong enough to be on the record… we disagreed and convinced him to add it to the BANG album…Lo and behold it became our first single….it goes to show that sometimes the “BAND” knows best….”

The 1971 self-titled debut album ‘BANG’ is considered an important forerunner to the early Doom Metal genre. Undoubtedly one of America’s heaviest ‘proto-metal’ bands from the period, BANG also had a strong sense of melodic power. The band’s versatility and songwriting skills are second to none. Highly regarded as a cult act by many for years, it’s now time for this truly amazing rock band to be enjoyed by a new audience worldwide!

Back in the spring of 1972, BANG was shaping up to be the proverbial ‘next big thing’. Signed a few months earlier to Capitol Records, the band’s first single “Questions” was taking off in the Billboard Hot 100. With the enthusiastic support of their record label, the trio’s self-titled debut album was also climbing in the charts. The group’s management had them opening shows for just about every major band of the era. Moreover, BANG had recently opened for their all time favorite band Black Sabbath, and by common consensus of opinion, stole the show! With two band members, guitarist Frank Gilcken and lead singer/bassist Frank Ferrara, still in their teens, and drummer/lyricist Tony Diorio, BANG seemed to be unstoppable!

Somehow, though, it didn’t quite work out. Even as “Questions” was charting, a corporate shakeup at Capitol saw the band’s supporters moving on and replaced by A&R men who had their own signings to promote. With the band’s producer, Michael Sunday, also leaving the label, BANG’s support system was crumbling. Their new producer engineered a change in personnel that led to drummer/lyricist Tony Diorio’s departure. Meanwhile, the label insisted that BANG develop a more mainstream, pop oriented sound. Trying to keep the dream alive, they changed management companies. With a much more commercial approach, the group released a 3rd album, ‘BANG Music’ in 1973, which, although did contain some great songs and performances, failed to chart. By 1974, just a couple of years after their initial success, a tired and disillusioned BANG had lost their direction, momentum and self-belief. They went their separate ways.

Despite the relative briefness of their career, BANG left behind a powerful recorded legacy: four albums, including their unreleased 1971 concept album ‘Death Of A Country’, as well as a trio of non-album tracks that were recorded as singles when their deal with Capitol was about to expire. In 1996, much to everyone’s surprise, BANG reunited! The band recorded and released in 1998 a new album titled ‘Return To Zero’, with the more metal-oriented album titled ‘The Maze’ (featuring new versions of old favorites “Love Sonnet” and “Bow To The King”) following in 2004, proving once again that the band still had the magic that made them great back in the early 70’s!

And now, much to the excitement of their fans, BANG will be performing live in Europe in 2016! Says Frank Ferrara, “The three of us realized that BANG was still a musical force. And even though a lot of years have passed, we were writing songs as if it were yesterday. The dream is alive, and with renewed thirst and love of the music, we are resuming our quest.” With drummer Jake Leger, and the Franks, the band will remain a three piece, sounding just like the records!

Finnish label Svart Records is re-releasing Bang’s 4 classic records: Death of a Country, Bang, Mother/Bow to the King , Music Album. They are being re-pressed on both vinyl and CD and will be available early 2016.
http://www.svartrecords.com/

Please visit http://www.bangmusic.com to explore and download BANG’s complete record catalog, including the band’s latest CD releases ‘Return To Zero’ and ‘The Maze’. Also the website contains never seen videos of BANG! http://www.bangmusic.com/videos/ as well as the BANG story – a must read and see! http://www.bangmusic.com/bangstory/

For more information:
http://www.bangmusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/Bangtheband
Instagram: @bang_the_band

Management: taryn.waldman@gmail.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in BANG, Press Release

2016/01/20

Lunden Reign’s Debut Album “American Stranger” Receives Multiple “Best Album/Songs of the Year” Awards for 2015!

By glassonyonpr

GO PR Awards American Stranger 2015 Graphic 1-13-16 med res

For Immediate Release​

Lunden Reign’s Debut Album “American Stranger” Receives Multiple “Best Album/Songs of the Year” Awards for 2015!

“A bunch of top-notch rock songs that feel both fresh and timeless.” – Chris C., BloodyGoodMusic.com​

Los Angeles – Alternative rock ensemble Lunden Reign’s debut album “American Stranger” was released in March 2015 to critical acclaim across the globe. Along with a multitude of positive reviews worldwide, the album received multiple “Best Album/Song of the Year” Awards in 2015!

“We are truly appreciative and flattered by all the incredible interviews, reviews and airplay we’ve received for our debut album, ‘American Stranger’,” says band leaders Nikki Lunden & Laura Espinoza-Lunden.​ “Now ​we are so humbled and appreciative that ‘American Stranger’ is ​making multiple music magazines year-end top album and song lists​! THANK YOU to those that are helping to support and showcase Lunden Reign’s music and messages to the world!”

Bloody Good Music​’s​​ ​Top Ten Albums of the Year – New York
“Not many bands begin their career with a concept album, but that’s what Lunden Reign did here, and the result is an album that brings the classic Heart sound to a new generation. This is a tightly-wound album of classic rock that features some glorious guitar tones, and well-crafted songs all around. Concept album can also get bogged down in the gimmick, but that doesn’t happen here, as the album can be taken on face value as a bunch of top-notch rock songs that feel both fresh and timeless. It’s the kind of record that’s easy to overlook, but well worth the effort to give it a try. The only thing I can’t speak to is the story of the record, as I was only sent a download without any of the lyrics or liner notes.”
http://www.bloodygoodmusic.tk/2015/12/the-top-ten-albums-of-2015.html

Bloody Good Music​’s​ Top 12 Songs of the Year “Mary” – New York
“This is classic rock done the right way. It sounds like the love child of Heart and Led Zeppelin, and rocks just as much. The way the vocal strains just enough in the chorus drives home the emotion of the song, while the hook has a way of sticking with you more than you’d expect.”
http://www.bloodygoodmusic.tk/2015/12/the-top-twelve-songs-of-2015.html

Highwire Daze Magazine #9 Top Albums of 2015 – Hollywood, CA
The band has an interview in the 25th Anniversary print version which includes the top 10 listing and features photos by rock photographer Jack Lue.

AKADEMIA MUSIC AWARDS “Best Alt Rock Album” – Hollywood, CA
In July, 2015, “American Stranger” was Voted “Best Alt Rock Album” by AKADEMIA MUSIC AWARDS (Hollywood, CA). “Lunden Reign’s album ‘American Stranger’ has all the compositional invention and production competence required for radio greatness – and a frayed emotional filament that travels deep in the hinterlands of true art, as well.”

Also, Lunden Reign’s “Hear Me” will be the first entry in Warren Kurtz “Fabulous 2015 Songs” feature for Goldmine Magazine (Wisconsin), covering 20 songs from 2015.

Says Nikki and Laura, “We believe 2016 for Lunden Reign is going to be an even more incredible year! We are already back in the studio creating our 2nd album ‘Confessions’ and once-again teaming with platinum-selling producer co-writer Luis Maldonado (producer and co-writer of ‘American Stranger’. We also hope to be performing in more festivals around the country this summer and crossing our fingers for increased airplay of our songs. FYI, watch for us as we will be in the audience of the 58th Annual Grammy Awards! Next year we hope we will be on the stage as well! Thank you all for you support!”

The band will be headlining at the legendary Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles on Saturday February 6th! (http://www.whiskyagogo.com/site/event/lunden-reign/) Already some of rock’s legends have joined Lunden Reign on stage including TERRI NUNN of BERLIN, PRESCOTT NILES of THE KNACK and DALE BOZZIO of MISSING PERSONS. Some of these performances are available on YouTube.

Lunden Reign is composed of two core members: Nikki Lunden (Lead Vocals/Guitar/Composer) and Laura Espinoza-Lunden (Guitar/Composer). Producer Luis Maldonado joins as guitarist on select shows and the duo tours with some of LA’s top musicians including: Matt Denis (bass) & Matt Lucich (drums). Lunden Reign’s music is described as ‘Big Beat Alternative Rock’ or ‘Modern Classic Rock’. Some say it’s the signature album for “ROCK’s REBIRTH”. The band’s debut concept album “American Stranger” was released on Cleopatra Records March 17, 2015 and began receiving world-wide critical acclaim almost immediately. The 10 original songs are scored with layers of haunting melodies, uplifting guitar riffs blended with a sharp edge and a massive beat.

Here’s what’s being said about Lunden Reign:

Dale Bozzio (Frank Zappa, Missing Persons): “’American Stranger’ is a masterpiece! Every song is great!”

Terri Nunn (lead singer of Berlin): “Laura is a great songwriter and musician. I listened to (American Stranger) a couple of times. My favorites are ‘LOVE IN FREE FALL,’ ‘HEAR ME’ and ‘THE LIGHT.’ I loved the passion of ‘HEAR ME’ …that’s my most favorite one.”

Prescott Niles (The Knack): “Every so many years an album comes out that redefines modern music. ‘AMERICAN STRANGER’ is that next album. Today the cycle goes full with a long-awaited return to music that touches the soul and embraces the test of time.”

Candice Marshall (BongoBoy TV 6-15) “This is the kind of (video) I would wait up all night for as a young girl with shows like ‘Saturday Night Videos’ and eventually, ‘MTV’. They are quickly becoming a favorite in my collection!”

Ray Shasho (Classic Rock Music Review 3.5.15) “(American Stranger) is an extraordinary-high-energy- esoteric rock gem, integrated with profound lyrical content, that I felt compelled to applause this exciting new progressive-rock powerhouse.”

Gary Brown (ClassicRockRadio.co.uk) “…For a modern rock band publicly described as being, big beat / alternative rock, I decided what we have here is a new rock band with an appreciation for the rock and roll before them. Touching on old school vibes, yet emitting their own fresh, and unique sound.”

Luc Ghyselen (Keys & Chords Magazine/Web Belgium 2.14.15): “’American Stranger’ is one complete story. Lunden Reign brings melodic rock that also fans of mainstream rock and even pop should appeal to.”

Chris C. (Bloody Good Music NY 3.18.15) “’American Stranger’ is a strong outing for a debut album, and a needed statement to redefine the ways we see women in rock music…. Lunden Reign defies expectations, and they’ve made a strong case for themselves. ‘American Stranger’ is a fantastic example of modern classic rock.”

More Information/Social Sites About Lunden Reign:
http://lundenreign.com
twitter.com/LundenReign
youtube.com/LundenReign
facebook.com/LundenReign
instagram.com/lundenReign

Contact:
Laura Espinoza- Legends International Agency, LLC Beverly Hills 310-746-9106
LegendsKennelly@gmail.com

Press inquiries: Billy James – Glass Onyon PR 828-350-8158 GlassOnyonPR@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Lunden Reign, Press Release

2016/01/18

Blues Hall of Fame Singer Sari Schorr Recording New Album With Legendary Producer Mike Vernon and Performing Selected US Dates

By glassonyonpr

Sari-11WEB-2 med res

For Immediate Release

Blues Hall of Fame Singer Sari Schorr Recording New Album With Legendary Producer Mike Vernon and Performing Selected US Dates

“With a powerhouse voice and a band to match this lady will certainly entertain. With whispers of Joplin and Turner her honeyed tones will raise the roof off the marquee.” – BLUES ON THE FARM, UK

NYC – In January 2015 legendary producer Mike Vernon (Fleetwood Mac, John Mayall, Blue Horizon) was invited to receive a ‘Keeping The Blues Alive’ award at the prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN. This award, was not the only highlight of the weekend for Mike; the second was witnessing the performance of one of the most amazing female blues singers Mike had seen in years – SARI SCHORR.

So knocked out was he with Sari, Mike came out of retirement to produce an album with her. Already a consummate songwriter, with tracks on major labels, Sari has written or co-written most of the songs on her new album. This album recording is now well underway and delivers hard-driving Blues-Rock influenced by the late ’60s British Blues movement. Sari (who trained as an opera singer) mixes Blues, Rock, and Soul with concrete melodies and poetic lyrics to striking effect.

Years of touring the US and Europe with Joe Louis Walker and Poppa Chubby, brought Sari greater prominence throughout the blues world. Schorr was recently inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame.

Sari will celebrate the release of her debut album on Manhaton Records in 2016 and undertake a US and European tour. She kicks off her groundbreaking tour at Carnegie Hall NYC, performing at The Lead Belly Fest with Buddy Guy, Eric Burdon, Edgar Winter and Walter Trout, on February 4, 2016.

Says Sari, “I set out to write achingly honest songs about finding love, losing love, betrayal, addiction, and the beauty and the tragedy of this human experience. My life’s passion is to use music as a galvanizing force to repair, inspire and unite people. To get there, I had to come clean and stonewall any constraints on the writing and performance of the songs. Then I had to learn to trust my intuition. Making an album is like building a pyramid in the dark. You know what you want to end up with, but you don’t really know what you have until there’s some distance and light.

“My songs are rooted in the blues and honoring that long tradition is important to me. My style of songwriting draws heavily on contrasting melodic hooks with aching harmonies. Writing honest and inspired lyrics is always the goal. I rely heavily on imagery and play with double entendres. My influences are many and various and include Son House, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Lead Belly, Etta James, Bessie Smith, Freddie King, Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Peter Green, Robert Plant and Bob Dylan.

“The album was written in the US, UK, Spain, and Germany. The band recorded most of the basic tracks in London and Seville. I’m so honored to have such incomparable musicians on the album including Innes Sibun, Walter Trout, Oli Brown, John Baggott and the wonderful Martha Velez.”

Sari mixes a passion for music and with a duty of social responsibility. She has devoted her talent and energy to music projects of a grand scale for humanitarian causes. Most notable is her work on a “Toast to Freedom” for Amnesty International, where she collaborated with many musical legends including Warren Haynes, Levon Helm, Keb Mo’, Taj Mahal, Eric Burdon, and Carly Simon. Sari’s humanitarian efforts include work in Haiti and India. She founded Matters – a non-profit that draws attention to humanitarian causes through the arts.

Sari is a marathon runner, animal rights activist, and aspiring vegan. She is also a writer, philosopher and wanderer with an inquisitive nature. She currently lives in Brooklyn with her husband and pit bull triplets.

Sari’s new band THE ENGINE ROOM, features stunning British guitarist Innes Sibun, formerly with Robert Plant. Says Sari, “Making an authentic connection with my audience is everything to me. I can push my vocals to the limit when I feel the energy from the audience rush the stage. I’m transformed when people are consumed by my music.”

Band Members:
Innes Sibun (guitar) – Robert Plant
Anders Olinder (keys) – Glenn Hughes, PP Arnold, Peter Gabriel (sessions)
Mike Hellier (drums) – Mud Morganfield, Waterboys, James Hunter
Kevin Jefferies – Roger Taylor (with Jeff Beck), Mike Oldfield and Steve Harley
also US tour special guest:
Chris Bergson (guitar) – Hailed as “a serious talent” by Living Blues, Chris Bergson was inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame in February 2015. With MOJO Magazine’s #1 Blues Album of 2008, #2 Blues Album of 2011, and #3 Blues Album of 2014, New York guitarist/singer Chris Bergson has established himself as “one of the most inventive songwriters in modern blues music” (All Music Guide), creating his own blend of blues, roots and soul. Chris Bergson has performed and/or shared the stage with Hubert Sumlin, Levon Helm, B.B. King, Norah Jones, John Hammond, Etta James, and Bettye LaVette, to name just a few. (www.chrisbergson.com)

Tour Dates:
Feb 07 – The Falcon – Marlboro, NY
Feb 12 – Turing Point – Piermont, NY
Feb 17 – Cutting Room – NYC
Feb 20 – Stanhope House – Stanhope, NJ
Feb 27 – Brian’s Backyard BBQ – Middletown, NY
Mar 05 – 12 Grapes – Peekskill, NY

Here’s what the media have raved about Sari Schorr:

“New York vocalist Sari Schorr has the effortless range and sense of drama to give any song real purpose and tonight she connects with her showcase crowd as if delivering a personal message face to face.” – PETE FENESTRA, GET READY TO ROCK

“So, how far will Sari go? Somewhere towards the top of the glass ceiling of the Blues, for certain, as she is a genuine talent.” – DARREN WEALE, WRC

“Sari Schorr is a stunning vocalist, powerful, energized and engaging…. Sari Schorr and other members of the band took the song to church and made believers of us all.” – JIMI PATRICOL, BLUES 411

“Sari Schorr is the embodiment of the best the blues and beyond has to offer. Sari is definitely the next big blues diva that will sweep through the blues scene.” – DAVE FIELDS, BIG CITY RHYTHM & BLUES MAGAZINE

AWARDED: 2012 Best Performance by a Blues Singer in a Band. “The sensational Sari Schorr who channeled Janis Joplin and Tina Turner during the show by the Joe Louis Walker Band at B.B. King’s in August.” – BROADWAY WORLD

“A Phenomenal and Beautiful Singer who I like to say, ‘Let’s all her passion and artistry come out through her amazing voice.’” – TREVOR B. POWER, WNTI

“Bodacious-voiced new front singer Sari Schorr, whose power vocals are a hybrid of Janis Joplin and Tina Turner, with a touch of a contemporary female blues singer like Janiva Magness. Walker and Schorr reached an orgasmic climax on this section of the show with the Willie Dixon’s classic ‘I Just Want to Make Love to You’…and Schorr transitioning from a whisper to a wail like a car going from zero to 60 in an eye blink.” – STEPHEN HANKS

“…the very talented Sari Schorr, who has the raw vocal power of Lydia Pense (Cold Blood)’’ – DAN D. HARRELL, BLUESWAX

“(Mike) Zito called up New York City’s blues ambassador Poppa Chubby and singer Sari Schorr. Schorr contributed husky come-hither vocals to a rollicking ‘Sugar Coated Love.’” – DEBRA DEVI, AMERICAN BLUES SCENE MAGAZINE

In closing Sari has this to impart, “The message of the album is to dream big, be fearless and imperfect, defeat anger with gratitude, embrace freedom, succeed then fail then succeed again, and know in the deepest darkness of your heart that there is a purpose to your beautiful and complicated life.”

Watch Sari’s new promo video: https://youtu.be/08Fd_P53FZQ

Sari Schorr’s official website: http://sarischorr.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialSari

Bookings: Movinmusik: http://www.movinmusic.co.uk/
Email: Mike Hellier – mike@movinmusic.co.uk Skype: movinmusic
http://www.movinmusic.co.uk/sari_engine_room.htm

Label: Manhaton Records
http://www.manhatonrecords.com/

Management: Alan Robinson
Email – arm@manhatonrecords.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Sari Schorr

2016/01/15

Greg Lake Re-releases His Two Solo Albums “Greg Lake” & “Manoeuvres” on Double Disc Set, a Week After Receiving an Honourary Degree!

By glassonyonpr

GL_DoubleAlbum_Cover_Distr med res

For Immediate Release

Greg Lake Re-releases His Two Solo Albums “Greg Lake” & “Manoeuvres” on Double Disc Set, a Week After Receiving an Honourary Degree!

London, UK – Greg Lake is the co-founder of KING CRIMSON and EMERSON LAKE AND PALMER (ELP), and wrote the hit “LUCKY MAN” and co-wrote “I BELIEVE IN FATHER CHRISTMAS”.

This 2-CD set collects together both of Lake’s two solo albums, his first self-titled album (1981) and his second album “Manoeuvres” (1983). The set includes FOUR BONUS TRACKS which have never been included on any re-issue of the albums, only on separate rarities albums.

The first album and its three bonus tracks feature all of the members of TOTO with the exception of Bobby Kimball as Lake handles all lead vocals. Both albums also feature appearances GARY MOORE on guitar.

Both CDs have received a 2015 REMASTER which has the personal approval of GREG LAKE. The booklet includes extensive liner notes. This is a great and easy way to buy both of Greg Lake’s studio albums and all the rarities connected to these albums in one place.

Track Listing:

DISC ONE: GREG LAKE
1. NUCLEAR ATTACK
2. LOVE YOU TOO MUCH
3. IT HURTS
4. BLACK AND BLUE
5. RETRIBUTION DRIVE
6. LONG GOODBYE
7. THE LIE
8. SOMEONE
9. LET ME LOVE YOU ONCE
10. FOR THOSE WHO DARE

BONUS TRACKS
11. YOU REALLY GOT A HOLD ON ME
12. YOU’RE GOOD WITH YOUR LOVE
13. COLD SIDE OF A WOMAN

DISC TWO: MANOEUVRES
1. MANOEUVRES
2. TOO YOUNG TO LOVE
3. PARALYSED
4. A WOMAN LIKE YOU
5. I DON’T WANNA LOSE YOUR LOVE TONIGHT
6. IT’S YOU, YOU GOTTA BELIEVE
7. FAMOUS LAST WORDS
8. SLAVE TO LOVE
9. HAUNTED
10. I DON’T KNOW WHY I STILL LOVE YOU
BONUS TRACK
11. HOLD ME

To purchase “Greg Lake” & “Manoeuvres” on 2-CD Set: Amazon CD: http://geni.us/2o0W

In other news, on January 9th Greg received an honourary degree from the Conservatorio Nicolini in Piacenza, Italy! This was the very first honourary degree for music the prestigious university has ever awarded!

Greg Lake’s official website: http://www.greglake.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Greg-Lake-118368008204116/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

1 Comment | posted in Greg Lake