Author Archives: glassonyonpr

New York City Based Serbian-Japanese Instrumental Duo Yagull Greatly Expands Their Post Rock Chamber Soundtrack Concept On Second Album ‘Kai’, Featuring Extraordinary Multicultural Line-up Of Guests

Yagull med res

For Immediate Release

New York City Based Serbian-Japanese Instrumental Duo Yagull Greatly Expands Their Post Rock Chamber Soundtrack Concept On Second Album ‘Kai’,
Featuring Extraordinary Multicultural Line-up Of Guests

“These super chill yet richly evocative instrumentals achieve a transporting, cinematic quality.” – Time Out New York, USA

“Instrumental music doesn’t get much classier.”
– Raymond Benson, Progression, USA

“Pure, moving, cinematic, and unearthly beautiful!” – RootsTime, Belgium

New York, NY – Yagull’s official debut for MoonJune Records, ‘Kai’, finds the band expanding its post-rock chamber soundtrack concept to great effect. The result is a simmering sonic bouillabaisse, chocked full of choice ingredients which delectably merge to blur the lines drawn by traditional genres – delightfully teasing the palette, while appealing to an expansive range of music aficionados! The group delivers twelve songs on this joyous outing: eight brand new compositions; two tunes from Films, reworked and revisited; plus, two tastefully-revised classic rock covers. The tracks showcase Yagull’s considerably potent stylistic capacity, making for a savory, finely-polished sophomore release. This new effort finds Yagull now launching itself from a duo framework – with Sasha Markovic being joined by the extraordinary pianist, Kana Kamitsubo – this most special of occasions is perfectly accentuated by a host of guest contributors; featuring fellow MoonJune international recording maestros, Beledo (guitar, lute), Dewa Budjana (guitar) and Marko Djordjevic (drums), and many other great musicians. With ‘Kai’, Sasha, Kana & company have embarked on a majestic journey that will appeal to a broad range of listeners… and carry them along for the ride!

‘Kai,’ represents big musical and personal changes for group founder, composer, producer, and guitarist, Sasha Markovic. Yagull has officially became a duo with the addition of Sasha’s most challenging collaborator up until this time, pianist extraordinaire Kana Kamitsubo. Sasha and Kana’s partnership went further as they became husband and wife. Album ‘Kai’ and the title track are named after their son born in 2014.

Picking up where the first Yagull CD, ‘Films’ left off in 2012, ‘Kai’ expands the post rock chamber soundtrack concept exploring new structures written around acoustic guitar, bass, percussion and acoustic piano. Yagull as a duo has an increased crossover potential for attracting listeners that may not be dialed into any of the specific genres baked into this release.

Yagull delivers eight brand new compositions, two tunes from ‘Films’ revisited ( Dark, Sound Of M ) plus two covers for this sophomore release. The tracks range from “North” which exploits Kana’s mastery of creating evocative mood and space for Sasha to play, folksy “Z-Parrow” while “Omniprism” drifts into progressive rock ambiance. Methenyesque tune “Blossom”, leaves space for special guest Dewa Budjana to shine with another beautiful, lyrical solo. The title track for their son emotes a melody that can easily go alongside “Waltz for Debby” by Bill Evans in any play list. Sasha once again wears his affection for classic rock as a badge reworking the Free song, “Wishing Well”, which was also passionately performed by the late Gary Moore, as well as Deep Purple’s “Burn”. Beledo’s majestic lute introduction pays a homage to Deep Purple’s live version from the ‘Made In Europe’ record.

Regarding the cover material, Sasha recently explained to DME, “My first serious music love was Deep Purple, since I heard the ‘Deepest Purple’ compilation along with ‘Rainbow Rising’ at age of 11. I’ve been playing ‘Burn’ in the similar arrangement for fun for many years now. It started as a joke when I was a teenager, and played it along with a friend of mine in a two-guitar arrangement with Zappa-like kind of vocal approach. When I presented this idea to Kana [Kamitsubo] last year, she gave the song completely new dimension with her playful piano solos. We are having a lot of fun playing it live these days. As for ‘Wishing Well’, I am a huge fan of Free and Bad Company and had to do the tribute to them on this album. I still consider Free the best teenage band that ever lived – since they were all between 16-18 when they started. ‘Wishing Well’ is one of those songs I grew up on and always liked singing for fun with my acoustic guitar. I just experimented with replacing the vocal parts with classical guitar, and at the end Wen Chang added her violin playing the main riff, so the basic album arrangement was born. Always loved Gary Moore’s and Blackfoot’s take on it, too. I had a chance meeting with Simon Kirke this summer, and got to play him the song, and he loved it.”

Yagull are also joined by several guest musicians, the extraordinary and diverse line up hailing from eight different countries, including fellow Moonjune international recording artists Beledo (guitar), Dewa Budjana (guitar) and Marko Djordjevic (drums), as well as the long time collaborator flutist Lori Reddy, Anthony Mullin from The Blackfires (guitar), Jackson Kincheloe from Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds ( harmonica ), Gabriel Nat (clarinet), Wen Chang (violin) and Yoshiki Yamada (upright bass). ‘Kai’ has set Yagull on a journey that will appeal to wide range of listeners. This is essential MoonJune music.

Here’s what the press have raved about Yagull:

“Pure, moving, cinematic, and unearthly beautiful!” – RootsTime, Belgium

“Killer stuff the adult ears can’t help but love. Hot Stuff!” – Midwest Record, USA

“Delectable acoustic collage of melody and subtle nuance. ‘Kai’ is a winner!” – Sea Of Tranquility, USA

“Reinvention or revelation, ‘Kai’ is inviting in both extremes” – Modmove, Australia

“Wonderful album! Captivating like a magical dream…” – Rocktimes, Germany

“These super chill yet richly evocative instrumentals achieve a transporting, cinematic quality.” – Time Out New York, USA

“Instrumental music doesn’t get much classier.” – Raymond Benson, Progression, USA

“Fabulous! Gorgeous guitar playing.” – Gayle Austin, Curved Radio, Australia

“Tasteful intelligent music to dream away on…. Beautiful!” – Moors Magazine, Netherlands

TRACK LISTING
1. North 05:33 (Kamitsubo/Markovic)
2. Dark 06:58 (Markovic/Kamitsubo/Thomas)
3. Heiwa 03:18 (Markovic/Kamitsubo)
4. Blossom 05:06 (Kamitsubo/Markovic)
5. Mio 05:20 (Markovic/Kamitsubo)
6. Wishing Well 04:39 (Free)
7. Burn 03:55 (Deep Purple)
8. Sound Of M 04:31 (Markovic/Kamitsubo)
9. Z-Parrow 01:50 (Markovic)
10. Kai 04:05 (Kamitsubo/Markovic)
11. Omniprism 05:50 (Markovic/Kamitsubo/Beledo)
12. Oyasumi 01:54 (Markovic/Kamitsubo)
Produced by Sasha Markovic
Executive production by Leonardo Pavkovic

To purchase Yagull’s ‘Kai’ CD: http://www.moonjune.com/mjr_web_2013/catalog_mjr/067_YAGULL_Kai_MJR067/

For more info:
http://www.yagull.com
http://www.moonjune.com
All inquiries to: noanoamusic@moonjune.com

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


Prog Legends Van Der Graaf Generator Release New Live Album ‘Merlin Atmos’ On Esoteric Antenna

VDGG Merlin Atmos med res

For Immediate Release

Prog Legends Van Der Graaf Generator Release New Live Album ‘Merlin Atmos’ On Esoteric Antenna

London, UK – ESOTERIC ANTENNA, are pleased to announce the release of the marvellous new live album by VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR, ‘Merlin Atmos’ on February 2, 2015. Recorded in 2013, the limited edition 2CD Digipack features the first ever full live performance of “FLIGHT” and “A PLAGUE OF LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS”

In June 2013, Peter Hammill, Hugh Banton and Guy Evans took to the road in Europe to present a series of live concerts that featured a set list that excited devotees of Van Der Graaf Generator like no other for many years. The band had decided the time was right to present their epic classic piece “A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers” in its entirety on stage for the first time, along with Peter Hammill’s equally epic “Flight”. As the centerpieces of the band’s live set, a series of wonderful concerts took place, drawing on the classic material from the band’s past, as well as their more recent albums such as “A Grounding in Numbers”.

Fortunately, some of these shows were recorded for posterity and have now been gathered together to form ‘Merlin Atmos’. Arguably the finest live album in the history of the band, ‘Merlin Atmos’ confirms Van Der Graaf Generator as a continuing musical force and explains the loyalty and respect they continue to receive from devotees the world over. ‘Merlin Atmos’ is a stunning musical statement from a stunningly innovative band.

“The most important thing to note and/or get across about ‘Merlin Atmos’ is the fact that we played both the long-form pieces ‘Flight’ and ‘A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers’. The former, of course, had been in the repertoire since the last North American Tour. The latter had only ever been played live once before, as far as we remember, back in the seventies. It was a pretty major commitment to say we’d be doing it even before we’d actually rehearsed together…. We were also, of course, doing it as a trio whereas the original recorded version was as a quartet with David Jackson. It took quite a bit of work to make it stageworthy!

“I suppose the mere fact that the record is being released proves that we were pretty satisfied with our efforts in the end!” – Peter Hamill

This strictly limited edition 2 CD digipack edition features a 70 minute CD of “Extras” recorded on the 2013 European tour including such classic tracks as “Scorched Earth”, “Man-Erg”, “Meurglys III, the Songwriter’s Guild” and “Your Time Starts Now”.

released 2nd February 2015

TRACK LISTING:

DISC ONE

1. FLIGHT
2. LIFETIME
3. ALL THAT BEFORE
4. BUNSHO
5. A PLAGUE OF LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS
6. GOG

DISC TWO

1. INTERFERENCE PATTERNS
2. OVER THE HILL
3. YOUR TIME STARTS NOW
4. SCORCHED EARTH
5. MEURGLYS III, THE SONGWRITER’S GUILD
6. MAN-ERG
7. CHILDLIKE FAITH IN CHILDHOOD’S END

http://www.cherryred.co.uk/shopexd.asp?id=4934

Van Der Graaf Generator official website: http://www.vandergraafgenerator.co.uk/
Peter Hammill official website: http://sofasound.com/

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


Guitar Virtuoso and Supertramp Legend Carl Verheyen To Release Second Acoustic Solo Album ‘Alone’

Carl Verheyen Solo Guitar Improvisations Vol 2 med res

For Immediate Release

Guitar Virtuoso and Supertramp Legend Carl Verheyen To Release Second Acoustic Solo Album ‘Alone’

“Carl Verheyen is a REAL guitar player!” – Robben Ford

Los Angeles, CA – Guitar aficionados worldwide are eagerly awaiting the release of the new album by guitar virtusoso and Supertramp legend Carl Verheyen on February 14th. Titled ‘Alone’, this is Carl’s second acoustic solo album. In his 40-plus years of playing the instrument, Carl Verheyen has created a wildly successful, multi-faceted career. He is a critically-acclaimed musician, vocalist, songwriter, arranger, producer and educator with 13 CDs and two live DVDs released worldwide. Carl is commonly regarded as a guitar virtuoso capable of playing any style of music with remarkable mastery and conviction. He has been one of LA’s elite “first call” session players for the past 25 years, playing on hundreds of records, movie soundtracks and television shows. Carl has graced the pages of countless industry publications and been the subject of numerous articles chronicling his rise to the forefront of the modern day guitar scene.

The idea for Carl’s acoustic solo albums was established many years before he became a guitar hero. Carl relates, “When I was 11 years old and 3 months into guitar lessons, my Dad came into my room and said, ‘Play me something, son.’ So I played the riff to ‘Satisfaction’ by the Rolling Stones and he said, ‘No, play me a song!’ When I argued that this was a song he asked, ‘Where’s the melody?’ I replied that the singer sings the melody and he’s not here! But he wouldn’t buy that answer and said, ‘You should be able to play an entire song.’ From that day onward I’ve endeavored to arrange and play solo guitar and compose original music for it. Since this instrument is one of the few that can accompany itself, I believe every serious guitarist should have music they can play alone. I count my father as a major influence in my development as a musician.”

The music on ‘Alone’ comes from a variety of sources. Says Carl, “Most of the material on this album is covers of songs I like. Three John Lennon tunes form a little suite in the middle of the set. I recorded some jazz standards, a Peter Gabriel song, a few originals, a movie theme and a Pat Metheny tune. My goal is simple: I only cover a song by another composer if I feel I have something new to say about it. A good musician makes music sound different and the object is to make the standards your own. The recording process was easy! As a few songs come together I’d book some studio time and knock out three or four at one sitting. One phone call, zero cartage trucks full of my amps, just a single guitar case!”

Carl Verheyen has won numerous polls and musical honors in the US, Germany, France, Italy and the UK. A member of the smash hit British rock group Supertramp since 1985, Carl has played to millions of enthusiastic fans in sold out arenas worldwide. As the creative force behind The Carl Verheyen Band, he has released an impressive and eclectic discography that showcases his endless talents across a wide array of musical genres. His musical influences are just as diverse and range from George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Mike Bloomfield, Alvin Lee, Leslie West to Miles Davis, John Mclaughlin, Steve Morse, Chet Atkins and Andy Summers, among others.

“Carl is a true pro and a great player/musician. He can do anything, and as one who is supposed to do this, me (ha-ha), Carl comes through with heart and soul and is really not only an awesome musician but a really good guy. That counts ALOT in this biz, especially these days.” – Steve Lukather

A much sought after studio musician, Carl plays on other artists’ CDs whenever his busy schedule permits. He has recorded and played with a virtual who’s who of the music industry. His vast collection of movie soundtrack and television credits are enviable. Carl was heard by 67, 000,000 people as a featured soloist at the 2009 Academy Awards. He will also be heavily featured in the forthcoming film documentary about the electric guitar, ‘Turn It UP!’

On the educational front, Carl has produced two instructional videos called ‘Intervallic Rock Guitar’ and ‘Forward Motion’ as well as three master classes for Truefire. He also has a book/CD detailing his unique “intervallic” style called ‘Improvising Without Scales’. Another book entitled ‘Studio City’ is a compilation of all the columns Carl wrote for Guitar Magazine between 1996 and 1999. He has written a monthly column for Chitarre, Italy’s #1 guitar publication as well as Guitar and Bass in both Germany and France and Guitar Techniques in the UK. He currently writes a monthly column for Guitar Player, contributes to other guitar publications, and blogs regularly for GuitarPlayer.com and his own site. Carl also lectures and teaches at clinics and master classes regularly when not on the road.

Carl recently co-designed a signature guitar with LsL Instruments, the “CV Special,” combining the best elements Carl seeks in his ideal guitar; they are now available for purchase worldwide. As if that weren’t enough, working closely with Dean Markley, Carl developed a line of signature strings for the electric guitar that perfectly balance the tremolo bridge of the Fender Stratocaster, the Carl Verheyen Balanced Bridge Helix HD string set .

“Carl is one of those experienced, great players that you could put in any situation and get a wonderful guitar solo. I personally love the fact that he enjoys what he does and radiates positive energy whenever I have seen him.” – Steve Morse

In support of his new CD release, Carl has several west coast shows scheduled for the spring. In closing Carl has this to impart about ‘Alone’, “Most of these arrangements came about while improvising on the songs during practice sessions. I like to state a melody and see where it takes me, which is the improvised part. The sheer joy of hearing the music in the air can take you to places you’ve never been as a musician, and I live for that!”

To purchase Carl Verheyen’s ‘Alone’ CD: http://www.carlverheyen.com/store-cds/

For more info: http://www.carlverheyen.com

Management:
Gary Selick
http://www.talenttothestage.com
PH: 415-999-7067

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


10,000 Maniacs Announce Official Release Date Of Their New Album And Offer A Sneak Peek!

10000Maniacs med res

For Immediate Release

10,000 Maniacs Announce Official Release Date Of Their New Album And Offer A Sneak Peek!

Jamestown, NY – Having conquered the alternative rock world with multi-platinum selling albums and unforgettable singles such as “These Are Days,” 10,000 Maniacs are about to release the most ambitious album of their career, a full-length collection of traditional British Isles folk songs, titled ‘Twice Told Tales’, newly interpreted by the band whose organic, neo-folk sound has influenced countless others. The official street date for the album is April 28 and will be made available on both CD as well as a special 180-gram 12” vinyl format from Cleopatra Records!

Founding member and keyboardist Dennis Drew explains the germination of the project, “Folk music of all types has been a strong influence on the band. One of the songs on the new record ‘Do You Love An Apple’ has been in our repertoire for 30 years. We’ve also recorded Carter family songs and other American, Irish and British Folk music in the past.” With that experience under wing, the group set out to create an entire album’s worth of modern versions of traditional British folk classics that would fit right alongside the rest of the 10,000 Maniacs’ body of work. “These are timeless melodies,” Drew continues, “Some songs are funny, some are heartbreaking. Most are 100, 200, 300 years old. It’s crazy how they can be turned into 21st century pop songs!”

For a taste of what fans have in store, the band is streaming one full song from the new album, a delightful Irish rhyme “Misty Moisty Morning,” on Soundcloud.

Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs/05-misty-moisty-morning/

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


Prog Metal Band Odin’s Court To Release Eagerly Awaited Fifth Album ‘Turtles All The Way Down’

Odin's Court cover

For Immediate Release

Prog Metal Band Odin’s Court To Release Eagerly Awaited Fifth Album Turtles All The Way Down

Progressive Metal for fans of Pink Floyd, Dream Theater, Devin Townsend, Porcupine Tree, HIM, Iron Maiden, and Queen

Baltimore, MD – USA based progressive rock and metal band Odin’s Court’s eagerly awaited 5th album Turtles All the Way Down will hit the streets on March 3, 2015. After releasing four diverse albums on ProgRock Records internationally, Odin’s Court will release their latest album independently through their own label D2C Studios.

Band leader Matt Brookins commented on the latest album: “On Turtles All the Way Down, our sound is refined with a balance of modern and classic vibes, while still retaining the signature ‘Odin’s Court’ sound. We also have the ‘missing piece’ that completes us – a new vocalist that can bring the emotion and technicality to the music that it deserves. Dimetrius LaFavors’ vocals, combined with the more mature song writing and production, have taken us to the next level.” The artwork was done by French painter J.P. Fournier.

As with all of the Odin’s Court full length releases, the newest is a concept album. This album deals with ideas and questions relating to the entire universe – how did it start, where is it going, what makes it tick, what is its purpose, etc. – from the point of view of the individual’s mind. It deals with mankind’s quest for knowledge, and how that knowledge changes. New discoveries often change humanity’s understanding or turn perceptions upside down, sometimes making long held beliefs immaterial. The title refers to the idiom that references “infinite recursion” or in layman’s terms, “what came first: the chicken or the egg?”

Brookins commented on the concept: “In a nutshell, Turtles All the Way Down is about the quest for knowledge, and how the human race learns more through experiments, observation, and discoveries over time. New findings may challenge long held beliefs, which in turn may cause deep thoughts in one’s mind for how these findings impact personal or social beliefs. While the songs are much more accessible, the music still has serious intricacies for the technical music lover. The melodies and harmonies with the vocals are catchier than our past work, but thematically this album deals with pretty heavy subject matter. For the prog lover, the concept and lyrics are definitely an order of magnitude above ‘Nerd Rock’ since it is largely inspired by physics. Of course, the other important inspiration is human emotion, as no matter what science may observe, individuals’ experiences always have an intangible factor to them that cannot be truly expressed or understood in textbook terms – they have to be learned through life.”

Check out the video to the first single from the album “…But What’s the Question?”: http://youtu.be/hxkk4gavGnE

Brookins explained the meaning behind the song, “The first single from Turtles All the Way Down is ‘…But What’s the Question?’ The song speaks to humanity’s need to question everything, and while asking questions is important towards obtaining knowledge, we may not always be asking the right questions. Environment and genetics contribution towards individuals and social conditioning, which in turn may result in programming people’s perspectives. Perspectives can warp and shadow the way we approach problems or questions, and thus cause people to often ask the wrong questions – which means getting the wrong answers.”

Odin’s Court is a Maryland, USA based band that was formed by Matt Brookins in 2001. The band is best described as progressive metal & rock, fusing classic and modern sounds that transcend several genres. In 2013, the band picked up lead vocalist Dimetrius LaFavors; with a voice reminiscent of classic vocalists in the rock, metal, and progressive genres, he added the “final piece” needed to polish off the band’s sound, while still maintaining a unique voice. Rick Pierpont, an infectious presence on stage, provides excellent and exciting leads that soar through the music. Brookins provides additional vocals and performs on various instruments as needed, doubling as band producer. The current line up started gigging in 2013, and has been winning over new fans with each show performed.

Odin’s Court:
Matt Brookins – Vocalist, Guitarist, Keyboardist, and multi-instrumentalist
Rick Pierpont – Guitarist, Backing Vocalist
Dimetrius LaFavors – Vocalist
Gary Raub – Drummer, Percussionist, and Backing Vocalist
Jason Pierpont – Bassist

Odin’s Court has been known to perform energetic live shows in the United States, primarily gigging on the east coast doing festivals, short tours, and one-off performances. The band has shared the stage with many classic and modern greats, including (but not limited too) Symphony X, Spock’s Beard, King’s X, Kamelot, Steve Whiteman (Kix, Funny Money), Sonata Arctica, Helloween, Jon Oliva’s Pain, Zero Hour, Crimson Glory, Circle II Circle, Devin Townsend, Circa, Enchant, and more.

Here’s what the press have raved about Odin’s Court:

“You just want to sit back and let the music wash over you.” – Hardrock Haven

“The very core of songwriting…is very good so there is plenty to sink your teeth into.” – Metal Revolution

“Odin’s Court delivers…heavy riffs, melodic vocals, lush keyboards, and interesting instrumental runs.” – Prog Archives

“A truly impressive effort, with solid songwriting and outstanding musicianship. Terrific melodic prog/metal that gets better with every listen!” – USA Progressive Music

“4.5 out of 5: Turtles All the Way Down is an exceptional album of classic melodic progressive rock and metal…Easily recommended.” – Danger Dog

“Odin’s Court mixes metal and hard rock to a tasty menu that you can enjoy anytime.” – Proggies.ch

In closing Matt Brookins has this to impart, “The main message is that life is a beautiful journey and as far as we can observe with empirical results, only happens one. So stop and smell the roses. Question things. Seek knowledge. Learn. Gain experience. Don’t believe everything you’re told without your own research. Don’t be a slave to old ideals or institutions if you have reason to believe new discoveries tell you something else. Form relationships and work to sustain them.”

To purchase Odin’s Court Turtles All the Way Down CD:
http://www.OdinsCourtBand.Com/store.html
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R82X2QC/
http://itunes.apple.com/album/id951784646

Catch Odin’s Court Live:
February 28 – Crossroads – Glen Burnie, MD (Baltimore, MD) – CD Release Party
March 14 – Memories – Waldorf, MD (Washington DC) – CD Release Party
May 5 – NJ Proghouse – Dunellen, NJ – With Inside Out Recording Artist Enchant
May 6 – Fish Head Cantina –Baltimore, MD – With Inside Out Recording Artist Enchant
May 7 – Empire – Springfield, VA (Washington DC) – With Inside Out Recording Artist Enchant
May 8 – 120 Tavern – Atlanta, GA – With Inside Out Recording Artist Enchant
May 9 – TBD – TBD –Raleigh / Durham, NC

CONTACT:
Email: band@odinscourtband.com

OFFICIAL SITES:
Band: http://www.OdinsCourtBand.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/odinscourtband
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/odinscourt

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


Guitar Legend Adrian Belew Presents Newest Music In An App – FLUX by belew

JLoFaro_Elephant Talk 2 med res

For Immediate Release

Guitar Legend Adrian Belew Presents Newest Music In An App – FLUX by belew

Nashville, TN – Guitar legend Adrian Belew has just released his newest music – and it’s like nothing you’ve experienced before. FLUX by belew™ is music that is never the same twice…think about that for a moment. This new revolution in music provides listeners with a mobile “listening experience” that blends music and art all in one accessible iOS application. Now you have access to hundreds of combinations of new Adrian Belew songs, snippets and sound bites that have been cut up, randomized and reassembled in a way that’s surprising and unique. The app embodies the future of technology and taps into what we love most about the Internet and social media: it’s always changing and moving forward. Developed in Amsterdam by MOBGEN and recorded by Belew himself, the musical roulette engine within FLUX by belew randomly connects sounds and beautiful visuals together using different algorithms to produce endless variations.

“I wanted to involve art and nature in the recordings – not just songs and music but also the feeling of life itself, where things are different all the time,” says Belew. He intends to keep adding to FLUX to make it truly an ever-evolving experience.

Adrian’s newest music in the FLUX by belew app is currently available for iPhones and iPads through the iTunes store for $9.99.
For more information go to: http://bit.ly/flux_belew

FLUX:FX is a multi-effect audio processor app for the iPad that lets you ‘play’ your effects. Innovative, intuitive and exciting, FLUX:FX lets you manipulate any audio signal into something entirely new, and redefines the possibilities of audio design and live performance in an app with an almost unlimited range of effect options. FLUX:FX is a truly authentic digital platform for designing your sound. Featuring more than 30 modular effects blocks, a master Performance view with 1-touch interaction, an advanced Edit view with multi-touch and full assignment possibilities, and an innovative Sequencer view to bring motion to the audio signal, this app allows the user to easily create previously unheard sounds. Fully compatible with Audiobus, Inter-App Audio and MIDI, FLUX:FX is made to connect seamlessly with existing live rigs and studio workflows.

Full details on the FLUX:FX application can be found at flux.noii.se, and tutorial videos can be seen here.

ABOUT ADRIAN BELEW
Adrian Belew is the world’s greatest experimental whammy twang bar, czar rhino, stunt guitarist extraordinaire. With a resume that features some of the biggest names in music including David Bowie, Frank Zappa, Nine Inch Nails, King Crimson, Talking Heads, Paul Simon and Tori Amos, Adrian is famous for pushing the boundaries of the guitar in both technical and tonal exploration. Today, Adrian Belew lives in Nashville, TN, touring the world and focusing on music and visual art that expands into the digital world through his latest creations, FLUX by belew and FLUX:FX.

Adrian Belew’s official website: http://www.adrianbelew.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdrianBelew

Contact:
OBI Creative
402.493.7999 O
402.337.7857 D
402.496.3713 F
2920 FARNAM
OMAHA, NE 68131
OBICREATIVE.COM

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


Guitar Legend Merrell Fankhauser Releases Critically Acclaimed Autobiography “Calling From A Star”

Merrell F book cover

For Immediate Release

Guitar Legend Merrell Fankhauser Releases Critically Acclaimed Autobiography “Calling From A Star”

Arroyo Grande, CA – Merrell Fankhauser has led one of the most diverse and interesting careers in music. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and moved to California when he was 13 years old. Merrell went on to become one of the innovators of surf music and psychedelic folk rock. His travels from Hollywood to his 15-year jungle experience on the island of Maui have been documented in numerous music books and magazines in the United States and Europe. Merrell has gained legendary international status throughout the field of rock music; his credits include over 400 songs published and released. He is a 2011 Grammy nominee and multi-talented singer/songwriter and unique guitar player whose sound has delighted listeners for over 50 years. This extraordinary autobiography tells a unique story of one of the founding fathers of surf rock, who went on to play in a succession of progressive and psychedelic bands and to meet some of the greatest names in the business, including Captain Beefheart, John Lennon, The Beach Boys, Jan and Dean, Willie Nelson… and there is even a run in with the notorious Manson family.

“I started the book in 1990 after years of friends and fans telling me I’ve had such an adventurous life that most Rock Stars don’t have.. Playing with so many music icons, moving to Maui searching for the Lost Continent of MU, and now over 400 songs published…! I kept trying to finish the book but because of my live playing schedule, writing, recording and doing a regular TV show, California Music 1990 – 1995, Tiki Lounge 2001 – to now it took years to finish!” – Merrell Fankhauser

Merrell Fankhauser is considered one of the main innovators of surf music and psychedelic folk rock, and is widely known as the leader of the instrumental surf group The Impacts who had the international hit “Wipeout”. Merrell has gained legendary international status throughout the field of rock music; his credits include over 250 songs published and released. Merrell Fankhauser has presented a number of television programs over the years including ‘California Music’, ‘Route 66 TV Live’, and in 2001 he began hosting a music show called ‘Tiki Lounge’ that airs on the California Central Coast, Southern California, Hawaii and parts of the East Coast.

Official website:
http://www.merrellfankhauser.com/

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15816/Merrell_Fankhauser-Calling_From_A_Star.html

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1908728388/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1908728388&linkCode=as2&tag=aquaradi-20&linkId=2WYL4WGLODDXPM3K

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


San Francisco Based Popular Irish-influenced Rock Band The Shams Release Their New “One and All” EP

shams front cover final

For Immediate Release

San Francisco Based Popular Irish-influenced Rock Band The Shams Release Their New “One and All” EP

San Francisco, CA – San Francisco based band The Shams are releasing their highly anticipated EP “One and All” on February 24th, 2015. This multifaceted, Irish-influenced rock band showcases their strong and original song writing skills, and the lads are touring across the West Coast to promote their explosive EP. They began by hosting an intimate CD release party with family, friends, and fans at the iconic Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco on January 16th, followed by a second release party at Neck of The Woods on Valentine’s Day with well-known Boston reggae band Spiritual Rez, and a headlining performance at The Great American Music Hall on Friday March 13th.

The EP, produced by John Cesario (who has worked with big acts such as Fleetwood Mac and Eddie Money, and is the creator of Rocket Songs) and engineered by Chris Cortez (Nice N Up Studios), has a raw and unique feel to it – yet while it is influenced by their Irish roots, their eclectic songs put them into a new genre of their own creation and appeals to music lovers of all ages.

The Shams have been featured at local music hotspots such as The Milk Bar, Bottom of the Hill, and Neck of the Woods in San Francisco, as well as 19 Broadway in Fairfax, The Starry Plough in Berkeley and legendary L.A. favorites Molly Malone’s and The House of Blues. They have played with national acts such as The Stone Foxes and Dig The Kid, and played with world-renowned Irish musician Damien Dempsey.

Whether it was a stroke of luck or pure genius, The Shams formed in 2011 when musician and guitarist Joey Kennedy (Kilkenny, Ireland) reached out to his friend and fellow Irishman Sean Daly (Donegal, Ireland) to join musical forces as the front man for their new project. Daly quickly brought in James Scragg (Cork, Ireland), an old friend and accomplished drummer. Shortly after, talented Irish-American Tommy O`Mahony joined the band with his funky bass. The final member to join was Northern California native Henry Moser, whose expertise on the electric guitar rounds out the group’s explosive and distinctive sound.

The Shams are quickly becoming a fan-favorite by combining their hard rocking, punked-up beat and raw, powerful vocals. Their repertoire of original songs reach deep down into their rebel roots and pulls out incredibly original tracks that illuminate what it means to be Irish. They provide listeners with a new, hard-hitting perspective on the evolution of Irish music, unlike any you’ve heard before. With each fiery live performance, The Shams are leaving listeners begging for more.

For more information about The Shams, their new EP or for upcoming tour dates, please visit the band’s website at Website: http://www.theshamsmusic.com or on the band’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/The-Shams or Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/the-shams-eire

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

Press and Radio Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Booking and Management Inquiries contact Aimee Daly (Manager/Booking)
at 415-240-6208 or theshams.eire@yahoo.com


The Classic Rock Music Reporter Interview with Ray Thomas

Ray and John
Ray Thomas in the studio with John Lodge

Saturday, January 31, 2015
Ray Thomas (Moody Blues) Interview: “Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll are a Thing of Memories; I’ve had More Than My Fair Share”

-An Exclusive Interview with Moody Blues legend Ray Thomas …
Ironically on a “Tuesday Afternoon”

By Ray Shasho

-Interviewed December 30th 2014

There were many similarities between The Moody Blues & The Beatles. Both had an entire band that could sing harmoniously and at times almost identical alongside one another. Each band member was also able to perform solos flawlessly. Both bands became good friends and even shared the same manager (Brian Epstein) for a spell. The Moody Blues became part of ‘The British Invasion’ and supported The Beatles on their final UK tour in December of 1965. They followed the tour with their first trip to the U.S. appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show.

In 1967, Moody Blues mates Ray Thomas and Michael Pinder performed on the studio tracks of “I Am the Walrus” and “The Fool on the Hill” from The Beatles, “Magical Mystery Tour”album. Both bands also mimicked each other’s artistic strengths … originality, prodigious songwriting & musicianship abilities and shared everlasting worldwide popularity.

NEW RELEASE …The Moody Blues 50th Anniversary re-mastered release -‘The Magnificent Moodies’ –Esoteric Recordings (Cherry Red Records) An Official (Deluxe 2 CD) 50th Anniversary Edition of the Moody Blues debut album is now available.

Re-mastered from the first generation master tapes, along with all the singles the band recorded between 1964 and 1966. Notably, this collection includes 29 previously unreleased bonus tracks.
-‘The Magnificent Moodies’ is available to purchase now at Cherry Red Records and amazon.com.

RAY THOMAS is the legendary co-founder, flautist, singer and songwriter for The Moody Blues. Thomas demonstrates an unimaginable musical feat spanning over five decades. It was Birmingham mates Ray Thomas and Michael Pinder who actually formed The Moody Blues in 1964. They recruited guitarist Denny Laine, drummer Graeme Edge and bassist Clint Warwick. After signing on to Decca Records, they recorded their debut album‘The Magnificent Moodies’ spawning the hit “Go Now” (#1 UK, #10 U.S.).

In 1966, Clint Warwick left the band. Thomas & Pinder eventually brought in longtime friend John Lodge to replace him on bass and vocals. That same year, guitarist and vocalist Denny Laine quit to form an electric string band and was replaced by guitarist/vocalist Justin Hayward … and the classic-lineup of The Moody Blues was inaugurated.

For the rest of the bio and the interview, please visit the Classic Rock Music Reporter website!


Drum Legends Carmine & Vinny Appice Release New ‘Drum Wars Live’ Video – “Stand Up And Shout!”

Drum Wars med res

For Immediate Release

Drum Legends Carmine & Vinny Appice Release New ‘Drum Wars Live’ Video – “Stand Up And Shout!”

Los Angeles, CA – Drummers and music fans worldwide are buzzing with excitement about the new live CD track and music video by drum legends, brothers, Carmine & Vinny Appice, titled “Stand Up And Shout!” Drumming demi-gods Carmine & Vinny Appice have both had extraordinary careers behind the drum kit, beginning with Carmine’s tenure in such legendary classic rock bands as Vanilla Fudge and Cactus as well as supporting stints with Rod Stewart and Ozzy Osbourne. Meanwhile, younger brother Vinny made his name as a metal drummer for monster acts such as Dio, Black Sabbath and Heaven & Hell.

Check out the new video here: http://youtu.be/pVzzh4MDeok

Recently, these two drum virtuosos have been wowing audiences with their own rock show called “Drum Wars”, featuring not only the hits of their associated bands but also a thrilling series of solos that pit them against each other like the Gene Krupa/Buddy Rich drum battles of yore. Fortunately for us mere mortals, this unique concert experience was recorded in June 2014 at the Iridium in New York and is now available on CD courtesy of Deadline Music and Rocker Records. Along with Carmine and Vinny, the ‘Drum Wars Live’ CD features Jim Crean, Ethan Brosh and James Caputo!

“After a bunch of friends and fans gave us a bunch of footage and photos from our ‘Drum Wars’ shows we decided to put together a video from our live CD. The ‘Stand Up And Shout’ video is a good representation of what ‘Drum Wars’ is – a kick-ass show!” – Carmine Appice

Here’s what’s being said about the new video:

“A full force drum battle complete with showmanship, sight gags, musicianship, power and sibling rivalry, captured on video.” – Radio Chick. Talk show host NYC

“STAND UP AND SHOUT. Powerful and relentlessly appealing! A Metal Anthem with overtones of DIO and Cactus from two of the most powerful drummers in the world.” – Allan Handelman, Show and Syndicated Show “Rock Talk”. http://www.ifitrocks.com

“Stand for Vinnie… Shout for Carmine… Drum Wars thunders with double the power and double the punch! Drum Wars battles through the legendary drumming brothers’ catalog and rocks you with shock and awe!” – A.J. Fritz Host of Fritzrocks WLVR FM

“This percussive pair will pulverize you with their paradiddles during Drum Wars on stage and on CD. Experience it while you can!” – On The Air & In The Wind, Fingers

“Drum Wars is a quick, fun listen that freshens riffs and energizes lyrics while keeping the songs relevant and fast paced. It’s an easy beginning to end listen.” – Orlando Mornings 943 The Shark, Brian Orlando, Morning Show Host 943 The Shark

For those unsure of their ability to withstand the aural assault that the Appice brothers bring, a free downloadable track from the album has been made available on the Rocker Records website. Visit here: http://rockerrecords.bandcamp.com/

“When me and Vinny play together we push each other to our limits. Either while drum battling or playing great songs from our history on this CD, while backed up with a great band behind us!” – Carmine Appice

“A CD of great music and drums that punch with power and energy.” – Vinny Appice

More ‘Drum Wars Live’ tour dates are currently in the works for March and beyond. Also, coinciding with the ‘Drum Wars Live’ CD release was a series of European shows featuring both Carmine & Vinny performing alongside a jaw-dropping list of metal vocalists and musicians. Dubbed the Metal All-Stars, this year’s crop includes Geoff Tate formerly of Queensrÿche, Dave Ellefson of Megadeth, James LaBrie of Dream Theater, and lots more!! For details, visit:
http://www.metalallstars.com/

This January, Vinny Appice will be embarking on the Extreme Guitar 2015 North American Tour featuring Uli Jon Roth, Vinnie Moore, Craig Goldy, Elliott Rubinson, Vinny Appice, Mark Boals!

Extreme Guitar 2015 North American Tour Dates
Jan 21 Ramona, CA
Jan 22 Anaheim, CA
Jan 23 Hollywood, CA
Jan 24 Las Vegas, NV
Jan 25 San Jose, CA
Jan 26 Portland, OR
Jan 27 Seattle, WA
Jan 29 Moorehead, MN
Jan 30 Spring Lake Park, MN
Jan 31 St Charles, IL
Feb 01 Chicago, IL
Feb 02 Detroit, MI
Feb 03 Toronto, ON
Feb 04 Cleveland, OH
Feb 05 Hartford, CT
Feb 06 Londonderry, NH
Feb 07 Pougkeepsie, NY
Feb 08 New York, NY
Feb 09 Springfield, VA

For more information:
http://www.vinnyappice.com
http://www.drumwars.com

http://www.carmineappice.com
http://www.drumwars.com
http://www.cactusrocks.net
http://www.therodexperience.com

To order the ‘Drum Wars Live’ CD on Amazon: http://geni.us/1HXY

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com
Carmine & Vinny Appice are available for interview – please contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR