Author Archives: glassonyonpr

2012/10/09

Eclectic Music Ensemble Fischer’s Flicker Releases Debut CD “Katmandon’t”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Eclectic Music Ensemble Fischer’s Flicker Releases Debut CD “Katmandon’t”

October 8, 2012 – Chicago, IL – One of the most eclectic releases of the year has finally hit the shelves, Fischer’s Flicker’s debut CD “Katmandon’t” – an unusual assortment of weirdness and musicality that sets the album (and group) in a class by itself. Formed by musician Scott Fischer, whose brain is like a vast musical amusement park, Fischer’s Flicker is his latest artistic brainchild, and marks the next step in a musical evolution that began over 15 years ago. While Fischer’s Flicker’s debut album is certainly more “mature” sounding than his previous efforts, containing none of his trademark humorous rock tunes, it stays true to the core of Fischer’s music with big melodies and ambitious composition. This, coupled with live performances that include extravagant and imaginative video installations that sync up with the band’s live performance, will make you want to jump right back in line for another ride!

“When writing for the new CD, I didn’t make a concerted effort to get ‘more serious’ on the release,” Scott explains, “it just came out that way. This is the first album released to-date without any ‘joke tunes’ on it. My lyrics seem to have become more honest/open than ever before. Not that they weren’t prior, but songs like ‘Souls’, ‘Wound Up Being Me’ and ‘Ex-Birthday’ had me really telling it like it is, where I would tend to hide meaning in humor in the past. It definitely seems to deal with more mature concepts than my prior releases, which only makes sense given some of the heavy hands that were played in life during the process of this recording.”

“A gorgeous songwriter journey” – Andre Cholmondeley, Project/Object

Scott Fischer, a Chicago native, has been writing and performing music since he was a teenager. In 1994, he founded Deja Voo Doo, and in 1998 released ‘Carpe P.M.: Honor Comes Only After Humility’, a highly ambitious concept album whose success led to Fischer’s involvement in Zappening 2000 (a tribute festival to Frank Zappa). It was during the shows to support the release of ‘Carpe P.M.’ that Fischer began to develop and refine the multi-media aspects of his live shows including custom-designed “living TV heads” that synced up to the band’s live performance. Says Scott, “It frustrated me to see people in attendance of a live show and giving a solid 8 collective minutes’ worth of attention to the act, intermixed with catching up with old acquaintances, refilling cocktails, relieving cocktails, smoke breaks, etc. I wondered how I could find a way to capture, say, 16 minutes’ worth of attention. I felt that I needed to hit the audience with another sense in addition to wowing their ears. Right between the eyes was the answer! I grabbed hundreds of hours’ worth of B movie sci-fi, student films and documentaries and then, in turn, spent hundreds of hours myself creating videos that evoked emotions pertinent to the songs they were created to sync up with. The videos are definitely a big part of the live show and what hopefully separates us from the others.” In order not to lose the “organic” feel in concert, a live VJ was employed to take on the painstaking task of “vari-speeding” the videos to correlate with the live band.

“In a day and age of minimalist attitudes, Fischer strives to balance the music with musical theatrics and avant-garde mindset hearkening back to the prog rock giants of the ’70s” – Anthony Kuzminski, AntiMusic.com

After several years of writing and performing, Deja Voo Doo evolved into Powderhouse and then Babaganoo. After a hiatus, Scott Fischer formed his latest musical vehicle Fischer’s Flicker; a band comprised of Deja Voo Doo alumni including Mario Licciardi and Tim Kubiak on guitar, Turan Yon on bass and Tim Gavin on drums. And now Fischer’s Flicker’s debut CD “Katmandon’t” is ready to turn your universe upside down! “I have always strived to do something different with my material,” says Scott. “Not only from others out there but from my previous material as well. Inevitably, I always end up having an ‘opus’ of sorts on each release.”

“If you enjoy music, you’ll love ‘Katmandon’t’! Give it a whirl and realize that you can still be mightily impressed by music. Even today.” – Scott Parker, ZappaCast and author of numerous musical books

To purchase Fischer’s Flicker’s “Katmandon’t” CD:
i-Tunes: http://bit.ly/MNBTM8
AmazonMP3: http://amzn.to/OXpGHK
eMusic: http://bit.ly/MhaLdW

“Souls” video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cou-ncjp1s0
“Year of the Locust” video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDFemiMyuWg

For more information visit: http://www.fischersflicker.com

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

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2012/10/05

Glam Rock Icon and Renowned Actor Michael Des Barres To Appear On NCIS – October 9, 2012

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Glam Rock Icon and Renowned Actor Michael Des Barres To Appear On NCIS – October 9, 2012

October 5, 2012 – Los Angeles, CA – Hot on the heels of his critically acclaimed new CD release ‘Carnaby Street’, ubiquitous rock and roller and renowned actor Michael Des Barres will be making a guest appearance on the most watched TV show worldwide, ‘NCIS’ on October 9, 2012. Acting alongside show regulars Mark Harmon, Michael Weatherly, David McCallum and Pauly Perrette, Michael portrays an ex-rock star down on his luck who gets caught up in some bad stuff. Tracks from ‘Carnaby Street’ will be played throughout the episode.

“I have worked on over 100 hours of television and I have never been on a set where everyone involved made me feel that I could fly with the material,” says Michael, “and feel safe enough, respected enough to do good work. Mark Harmon is the Captain of a ship that sails around the television universe like the mothership of terrific entertainment.”

“This is a very fun episode and Michael Des Barres brings tremendous humor and idiosyncrasy to the character he knows oh-too-well. We really lucked out having him join us.” – Gary Glasberg, NCIS Executive Producer

Michael Des Barres new CD titled ‘Carnaby Street’ was released worldwide by Gonzo MultiMedia on July 10, 2012 and the reaction so far has been phenomenal! The album has garnered rave reviews worldwide, attracting the attention of Steve Van Zant who considers the CD one of the best releases of the year! He has been playing the songs “Little Latin Lover” and the title track “Carnaby Street” in heavy rotation on Little Steven’s Underground Garage.

“The best album he’s ever made – He’s even better than he thinks he is!” – Steve Van Zant

Michael confesses, “I am genuinely shocked and delighted at the response to ‘Carnaby Street’. However, I am not surprised… There is a huge vacuum in rock and roll, a sense of joy and pleasure, a sensuality long trampled underfoot by a ‘hip’ reluctance to let go and let Chuck Berry, bury the self-consciousness and reticence to play music that we all can shake a tail feather too and just celebrate each other and the simplicity and sexuality of rock and roll.”

Due to the popularity of the single “Little Latin Lover”, Michael has decided to release a Spanish version of the song aimed at Latin American radio. “ ‘Little Latin Lover’ is a burst of rock and roll that is about a man who loses his wife to immigration deportation,” explains Michael. “We recorded it in Spanish and English. It has been picked up on the radio by over 180 countries.”

Here’s what is being said about Michael Des Barres ‘Carnaby Street’:

“It really does rock!” – Steve Jones

“The album is great – he is in love with life” – John Taylor

“He always sang the blues great” – Don Johnson

“The album blew my mind!” – Pauly Perrette

“ ‘Pain Killer’ is a healing blues masterpiece” – Gabriel Byrne

“It’s the real thing” – Slim Jim Phantom

Nick Cristiano of The Philadelphia Inquirer gives the album 3 ½ stars and writes the following: “Michael Des Barres describes his new album as ‘authentic rock-and-roll, based in American blues, R&B . . . three-chord, unabashed rocking music.’ That pretty much nails it. The real treat here is how well the British musician and actor and his four-man band grasp those rock-and-roll basics, stirring echoes of the Stones and the Faces (with the rasp in his voice, the 64-year-old Des Barres sometimes brings to mind Rod Stewart). ‘You’re My Pain Killer’ begins the album on a slow burn, and ‘Please Stay’ is a pleading, gospel-inflected ballad that sounds like a lost Stax classic. Mostly, though, ‘Carnaby Street’ is glorious, pedal-to-the-metal riff-rocking, played with swagger and panache and – beginning with Des Barres himself and his thoroughly unpretentious, hook-heavy songs – plenty of heart.”

In other news, Michael Des Barres was recently invited by the well-respected entertainment website The Wrap to become a guest blogger. In a recent piece entitled “50 Years of Jack Flashers, Midnight Ramblers, Devil Sympathizers” he shares his views on 50 years of the Rolling Stones. The blog post was picked up by Yahoo and MSN Entertainment to name a few. You can read Michael’s blog at http://www.thewrap.com/music/blog-post/michael-des-barres-50-years-jack-flashers-midnight-ramblers-devil-sympathizers-56871
On October 16, 2012 Michael Des Barres will be performing at a special event in New York City with members of the E Street Band honoring Steve Van Zandt! Along with Michael, performers include Steve Van Zandt, Jake Clemons (son of Clarence Clemons), Max Weinberg, Elvis Costello, Southside Johnny, Michael Johns, Darlene Love, Dion, Tom Morello, Jesse Malin, NYC Hit Squad and others. For more information: http://www.littlekidsrock.org, https://www.facebook.com/events/419470591445150/

To purchase Michael Des Barres – Carnaby Street CD: http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15483/Michael_Des_Barres-Carnaby_Street.html

For more information: http://www.desbarres.com, http://www.mdbimmedia.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Michael Des Barres, Press Release

2012/10/02

Dennis Haklar’s ‘Lizard’s Tale’ Featuring Music Legends Jon Anderson and Larry Coryell Now Available!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Dennis Haklar’s ‘Lizard’s Tale’ Featuring Music Legends Jon Anderson and Larry Coryell Now Available!

Oct. 1, 2012 – Central, NJ – The music community is buzzing with excitement about the debut CD release by guitarist Dennis Haklar titled ‘Lizard’s Tale’, featuring guest performances by music legends Jon Anderson (YES) and Larry Coryell. Also featuring Mark Egan on bass (known for his work with Pat Metheny) and Thierry Arpino (known for his work with Jean-luc Ponty) on drums, ‘Lizard’s Tale’ is an enchanting, dynamic jazz-inspired album filled with emotional virtuosic performances.

“Dennis Haklar asked me to sing on his very inspired album earlier this year, we had already been working on a large scale project dealing with Ancient Asian music, so it was such fun to hear what he was creating. I said I would enjoy singing ideas as they came to me, and to join vocally with such great musicians. It has been a pleasure for me to sing on this album, I hope that people will find time to relax and enjoy.” – Jon Anderson

Hailing from Amboy, New Jersey, Haklar studied jazz guitar at an early age. At Rutgers University he became interested in Electronic music and worked with a modular Arp 2600 synthesizer with many osc modules, sequencing, as well as several reel-to-reel tape machines, creating sounds in unorthodox ways. After college he joined the Improvising Structures Ensemble, which was an avant garde outfit that performed the music of John Cage, Terry Riley, as well as original compositions. Dennis entered one of his pieces into a young composers competition and won a student membership to IRCAM in France. This culminated in a master class with Pierre Boulez at Carnegie Hall; an evening he conducted and premiered his masterpiece “Explosante Fixe”. Haklar confesses “I was never the same after that divine experience!”

And how did Dennis Haklar secure such music icons as Jon Anderson and Larry Coryell to perform on his debut album? Dennis explains, “A few years ago I began to collaborate over the internet with Jon Anderson on a large-scale work. Charka Music, very involved. I had also sent him some music I had written. He sang on several pieces and we continue to collaborate. When I was working on composing the music to ‘Lizard’s Tale’, I had sent Jon four compositions we had just recorded in the studio – ‘Leap Of Faith’, ‘Prelude To Dawn’, ‘Dawn Of An Era’ and ‘Crossing Over’. He quickly responded with the perfect vocal tracks and really helped convey the meaning of the songs. I love working with Jon!” As far as connecting with guitar legend Larry Coryell, says Dennis, “I had known Larry Coryell for several years studying jazz improvisation and composition with him. I had presented some songs to him that I was preparing for this project and asked if he would be interested in playing on the recording session and producing it. He agreed and we got to work straight away. We had composed the title track in one sitting. As the project developed we had agreed that the best rhythm section for this would be bassist Mark Egan and drummer Thierry Arpino.”

“This was a great session – it was a real ‘Jersey-New York’ thing complete with bedbugs in the hotel down the street from the studio, which was either too hot or too cold – plus there was all kinds of equipment and mechanical problems. Nothing went smoothly – hence it was a great record, sometimes it’s like that. Dennis’s European-inspired work ethic also paid off – especially for his compositions and arrangements. One twelve-string part he wrote for me was not easy to play, and he was makin’ me sweat – but I got it after he showed me the correct fingering. Mark Egan and Thierry Arpino were superb – we’ve been playing together for some years now, and they are a tight team. I was blown away by the beautiful contribution made by the great Jon Anderson – I’ve always been a fan, and he certainly has evolved to a special place in the vocal spectrum. And so in tune!! It was a crazy session – and a good one – that’s why I nicknamed this date as ‘Denny and the Mad Hungarians’.” – Larry Coryell

The concept behind ‘Lizard’s Tale’ is awareness. The lizard represents friendship, and is quick to escape from harms way. The lizard can survive for long periods of time in harsh environments. The pieces on ‘Lizards Tale’ evoke the ability to look inward for peace and harmony with the universe, to flow with it. “Leap Of Faith” is about courage to face the unknown and leap without fear. “Dawn Of An Era” is about the realization that this is not the same world as your fathers and we must adapt to survive, like the lizard. As the lizard runs across the desert, he looks to the heavens and dreams of crossing over. We journey with the lizard.

In closing, Dennis has this message to impart to his listeners: “Look inward to find that place of peace. Move towards the realization that we all come from a place of love. There are always conflicts surrounding. Unrest is an ever-changing world. Let go of bad energy and amp the good. My wish is that people hearing the music will become a part of it, and allow it to become part of them.”

To purchase Dennis Haklar – ‘Lizard’s Tale’ CD: http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=25585&cat=0&page=1
CD Baby: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/dennishaklar

For more information http://dennishaklar.com/

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

Leave a comment | posted in Dennis Haklar, Jon Anderson, Press Release

2012/09/27

Australian Prog Legends Unitopia To Release Highly Anticipated New CD ‘Covered Mirror’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Australian Prog Legends Unitopia To Release Highly Anticipated New CD ‘Covered Mirror’

Sept. 27, 2012 – Australia – Much to the excitement of progressive rock fans around the globe, legendary Australian prog ensemble Unitopia is releasing a new CD of cover songs titled ‘Covered Mirror’ on October 31, 2012. The most well-known and respected progressive rock band to emerge from Down Under, Unitopia is back with a ground breaking, powerful new release!

“Making a covers album is always a challenge,” confesses lead vocalist Mark Trueack, “and reproducing classic songs and making them ours was always going to be difficult.We spent a great deal of time coming up with ideas and we are very proud of the results. We wanted to take the listener on a journey or experience, if you like. We fused together progressive, pop and rock music into one smooth sound.”

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Unitopia endeavours to draw from the heart and soul of the listener thought provoking topics such as environmental awareness, political and social upheaval and the hectic pace of life and human relationships in a positive and uplifting light. Using progressive themes as a framework, Unitopia’s music includes elements of world, classical, jazz, heavy rock and groove. Mark Trueack (composer/lead vocals/producer), Sean Timms (composer/keyboards/backing vocals/producer) and Matt Williams (guitars/backing vocals/producer) form the nucleus of the band. To complete the line-up, they chose the combined drum/percussion batteries of David Hopgood and Tim Irrgang, Craig Kelly on bass and Daniel Burgess (sax/clarinet/flute/piccolo/didgeridoo).

Unitopia released their first album ‘More Than A Dream’ in 2007 on the Canadian label Unicorn Digital. The band signed a three-album deal with InsideOut Music in Germany in 2008; the only Australian band to have signed with the label to this day. Unitopia’s second album ‘The Garden’, released that year, established the band as one of the premier progressive rock acts in the world. With the release of their critically acclaimed third CD ‘Artificial’ and a subsequent successful tour of Europe in 2010, the critics were unanimous. “Unitopia has been one of the best live acts on the Progressive Rock scene in the last few years!”

The band’s performance at the Boerderij, Zoetermeer in the Netherlands during the 2010 European tour was filmed and recorded. A subsequent live CD and DVD ‘One Night In Europe’ were released in 2011, successfully capturing the excitement of Unitopia in concert. Adding another dimension to Unitopia’s conceptuality, renowned artist Ed Unitsky was brought into the fold, touted as the “fourth Unitopian”. Says Mark in a recent interview with Prognaut, “We found each other on the net. He liked our sound so we started the process of getting to know his art, before engaging in his work.”

And now Unitopia has taken their music to another level with their new CD of cover songs. “Both Sean and I chose songs that we both liked and wanted to give them our Midas touch,” says Mark. “We wanted to bring these songs together, by bridging nice musical segways.”

Tracks include:

1. Signs of Life (Prelude) Sean Timms
2. Calling Occupants (Klaatu)
3. Easter (Marillion)
4. Man of Colours (Icehouse)
5. Genesis Medley (Genesis)

The Silent Sun
Suppers Ready
Dancing with the Moonlit knight
Lamb Lies Down on Broadway
Carpet Crawlers

6. Rain Song (Led Zeppelin)
7. Even in the Quietest Moments (Supertramp)
8. Can We Still be Friends (Todd Rundgren)
9. Speaking The Truth (Dan Burgess/Matt Williams)
10.Everybody’s Gotta learn Sometime (Korgies)
11.Yes Medley (Yes)

And You and I
Awaken
Close to the Edge
Soon
Onward
South Side of the Sky
Owner of a lonely Heart

12.To one in Paradise (Alan Parsons)
13.The Way the Waters Moving (The Flower Kings) Bonus Track Remix 2012

To purchase Unitopia ‘Covered Mirror’:
As of September 24th – http://www.unitopiamusic.com
As of October 31st – Musea Records – http://www.musearecords.com
As of December 1st – Bird’s Robe Records – http://www.birdsrobe.com

For more information: http://www.unitopiamusic.com/fr_intro.cfm

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

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Unitopia

2012/09/25

Flamenco Guitar Sensation Mehran Ventures Into Uncharted Prog Territories On New CD Release ‘Subterranea’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Flamenco Guitar Sensation Mehran Ventures Into Uncharted Prog Territories On New CD Release ‘Subterranea’

Sept. 24, 2012 – Chicago, IL – ‘Subterranea’ is the name of new instrumental album by guitarist Mehran which is due for release in September 2012. Just like his first critically acclaimed CD, ‘Angels of Persepolis’, released in 2010, ‘Subterranea’ is a guitar oriented concept album along the cosmic lines of Pink Floyd under the influence of Flamenco guitar. The difference is this time, Mehran has further ventured into progressive rock territories, revisiting his musical roots and exposing his hard rocking past. For this album, Mehran formed a 4-piece band with Carl Kennedy on keyboards, Krushanu Joseph on bass and Sam Werk on drums, as opposed to his previous work that was recorded with 15 different studio musicians. This time around when you listen to Mehran’s new work you can hear the same 4 musicians as a solid unit.

“Even though I have been playing Flamenco for a couple of decades, deep down I have always been a rocker,” says Mehran. “I grew up listening to Pink Floyd, the Doors, the Eagles and Led Zeppelin. On this album I wanted to reach deep inside myself and bring out what influenced me to pick up the guitar in the first place. I wanted to take that and deliver it with the same heavy backbone of any rock influenced band but play it with Flamenco guitar. My intention was to do something that is very unique but at the same time it has all the influences that shaped and formed my playing.”

The music on ‘Subterranea’ is not your typical rock sound although it can easily be categorized as ‘Progressive/Alternative Rock’ but most of the melodies are carried on a Flamenco guitar, yet with the intensity of Prog. That is Mehran’s formula for creating something as original as possible without turning off the audience by getting too complicated. The melodies and compositions on ‘Subterranea’ are sweet and memorable and the musical style is very atmospheric.

The concept behind ‘Subterranea’ is filled with fantasy, imagination and at times science fiction. The message however is social and political. “Subterranea is an imaginary, surrealistic and utopian society that lies a few thousand miles beneath the earth,” Mehran explains. “It exists in a different dimension than one we humans live in. The inhabitants are mirror images of the modern man yet on an opposite path from us. As we, humans, are moving toward weakening the earth’s axis and our rulers run our societies with greed, aggression, exploitation, and have nearly brought the world to an spiraling collapse, Subterraneans are moving toward transcendence, longevity and live in harmony with nature. Pride and ego are meaningless concepts to them. Humility and selflessness are the bases of their being. Symbolically, Subterranea is a constructive social criticism. It is a yearning for a better society and a glimpse into an alternative reality for mankind.”

Mehran’s skillful guitar work on ‘Angels of Persepolis’ gained him a reputation as a solid and highly expressive performer and composer. Following this release he was featured in a full page write-up in the February 2011 issue of Vintage Guitar Magazine. He was also reviewed in their January 2011 issue where they wrote: “Mehran’s soloing covers a lot of ground but even in the quickest passages, it’s melodic. The solo on ‘Korean Soup’ mixes his Flamenco skill with jazz harmony where he solos flawlessly over nice changes.”

Here’s what the press have said about Mehran’s debut CD ‘Angels of Persepolis’:

“Mehran’s skillful guitar work and imaginative compositional approach shine through, however, resulting in an intriguing mélange of romantic, Middle Eastern, Spanish, Latin, Brazilian, smooth jazz, and experimental themes and tonalities with a political edge.” – Barry Cleveland, editor of Guitar Player Magazine

“A timeless classic.” – Skope Magazine

In Aug 2011 Mehran was featured in the NPR’s World View program with an interview and a live solo performance. Other magazines in the US and Europe including Progression Magazine, IO pages of Holland and UK’s Pipeline Magazine, to name a few, also wrote rave reviews on Mehran’s playing. In conjunction with the release of ‘Subterranea’ Mehran has filmed a new innovative video for the song “Into the Abyss”. Says Mehran, “The video was created by a very talented friend, Carlo Serran. We decided to give it an underworld look so we rented the basement of a huge warehouse. We also wanted to give it a dark and edgy feel since the song has a heavy and serious air about it and is filled with lots of tension and release. The surprise at the end of the video and the little talk about the gravity of earth catches many off guard.”

Adding another dimension to Subterranea’s conceptuality is the CD’s sublime artwork. “The artwork was also created by a good friend of mine, Siamak Zarin Ghalami,” explains Mehran. “It shows a few green islands in the water that represent Subterranea. The shadows that they reflect on the water are buildings and high-rises that reflect our society. As the eye shifts to the right the buildings get older, representing passage of time. The islands are connected with rainbows however everything is submerged in water. The detail on the artwork and the way it delivers the message is truly stunning and really involves the mind of the observer.”

To purchase Mehran – ‘Subterranea’: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mehran2

For more information: http://www.mehranguitar.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mehranguitar

“Into the Abyss” video (from ‘Subterranea’): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rc5eAL-Cj40
“The Little Song of Hope” video (from ‘Angels of Persepolis’): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1QST4cJrzs

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

Leave a comment | posted in Mehran, Press Release

2012/09/21

Female Fronted LA Power Trio bellylove To Release New CD ‘Circles and Darkness’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Female Fronted LA Power Trio bellylove To Release New CD ‘Circles and Darkness’

Sept. 21, 2012 – Los Angeles, CA – LA’s most talked about female fronted rock trio, bellylove, will be releasing their highly anticipated fifth CD in late September. A well-respected musical presence on the Los Angeles music scene, bellylove’s new CD ‘Circles and Darkness’, featuring Lisa Black (guitar) and Toni Valenta (vocals and bass), with Adam Steinberg (drums), is guaranteed to wow and amaze all who listen! With eclectic covers ranging from Frank Zappa, Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd and Cheech and Chong (yes! Cheech and Chong), along with some exciting originals penned by the group, bellylove is the band to keep an eye out for in 2012!

“This band plays from the deepest part of themselves with truth and audacity. I love their music. It is both transcendent and adventurous.” – Michael Des Barres

Formed on the heels of Lisa Black’s debut as guitarist with legendary ’80s LA female punk band The Pandoras, and the resulting groups Feline (with members of the Pandoras) and Hardly Dangerous, bellylove began their journey in 1998. Toni Valena is a multi-talented singer/songwriter who plays guitar, bass and drums. She can nail Zeppelin to a tee and writes amazing, thoughful, heartfelt lyrics. bellylove is her baby – she coined the name. “Music has always played an important role in my life,” says Toni. “Music gave me sanctuary when I was a kid. I could get lost in the lyrics and voices of the songs I loved the most.”

Lisa and Toni released the self-titled EP ‘Bellylove’ in 1998, which atracted the attention of Joss Whedon, creator of the ‘Buffy The Vampire Slayer’ TV series. “Joss Whedon thought the song was perfect for a scene in the Season 3 (Sept. 1998) Premier episode: Anne,” Toni recalls. “Buffy had run away and was having a deep introspective moment, finding her way back to freedom. We had no idea or intention of any of it happening. Their people contacted us and not only did our song appear on the episode, we got to ‘perform’ on the set at The Bronze (club). I had never even played a show before appearing on Buffy! It was very exciting for us – we got to meet several of the cast members and see how they made TV magic happen.”

Bellylove went on to record another EP in 2004 (High on the Wagon) and a compilation of many EP’s on CD in 2007 (Peace Love and Understanding). In 2003 the band travelled to Florida to open for Ani DiFranco at the Calliope Fest in 2003. Drummer Adam Steinberg was recruited for the duo’s live act and new CD. “We play for the love of music,” says Adam. “Taking a really diverse conglomeration of influences both musically and socially and channeling them through a classic power trio format and playing from the heart.”

The band’s musical influences, as witnessed by the covers included on the new CD, range far and wide. Lisa’s influnces include Frank Zappa, Mick Ronson, Mick Mars and Billy Zoom of X to name a few. “I really fell in love with the song ‘Apostrophe’ by Zappa when I first heard it and felt like I needed to figure it out on guitar,” Lisa explains. “The same with Zappa’s ‘Magic Fingers’ from his 1970 film ‘200 Motels’, with its fiercely crafted guitar riffs. The Zappa, Sabbath, Cheech and Chong selections on the new album were a group effort.” Toni’s influnces include The Beatles, Nicolette Larson, Bob Welch, Black Flag, X, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and The Cult.

The new single from bellylove’s latest release, the title track “Circles and Darkness” was penned by Toni and Lisa. “I am a huge Harry Potter fan,” explains Toni. “The lyrics are a nod to the book ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban.’” Lisa adds, “I adore that song and love to play it live, it’s exciting when the song climaxes at the end, It just leaves ya wantin’ more!”

“Authentic rock and roll, strong tight musicians, great lyrics and a lead singer who’s voice puts you I heaven!” – Kenny Lombino, Vampire Mob

To purchase bellylove – ‘Circles and Darkness’ CD: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/bellylove4, http://itunes.apple.com/us/albums/circles-and-darkness/id556372395

For more information: http://www.bellylove.com

Upcoming bellylove shows:

Saturday – October 20, 2012 – The Crest – Torrance, CA (1625 Cabrillo Ave., Torrance, CA 90501)
Thursday – October 4 and November 1, 2012 – “First Thursday in San Pedro Proudly Presents” bellylove at Sacred Grounds in San Pedro, CA (468 West 6th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731)

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

Leave a comment | posted in bellylove, Press Release

2012/09/20

Jazz-Fusion All-Star Trio Scott Henderson Jeff Berlin Dennis Chambers To Release New CD ‘HBC’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Jazz-Fusion All-Star Trio Scott Henderson Jeff Berlin Dennis Chambers To Release New CD ‘HBC’

Sept. 17, 2012 – Asheville, NC – Much to the excitement of musicians and jazz aficiandos worldwide, the highly anticipated CD release by jazz-fusion legends Scott Henderson, Jeff Berlin and Dennis Chambers, will be released on Tone Center Records (a division of Shrapnel Records) on October 16, 2012. Considered one of the most phenomenal trios in the history of jazz-fusion, HBC’s debut CD delivers a full dose of virtuosic performances guaranteed to thrill and inspire all who listen.

“The trio is all about interplay,” explains guitarist Scott Henderson. “Jeff and I have always had a very high level of communication when we play together, and putting Dennis in the mix notches it up even higher. He’s an extremely musical drummer, but at the same time has the ability to bring the energy up to scary levels.” Bassist Jeff Berlin adds, “We pretty much have the same vision of how three strong players should sound together. We function well on many levels; we’re friends and love to hang. We’re also individually dedicated to high standards of playing.”

The music on the CD reflects the influences and spirit of HBC. Tracks include covers by Weather Report, Herbie Hancock, Billy Cobham and originals penned by Henderson and Berlin individually. Says Jeff. “We all agreed to the repertoire but Scott picked most of the songs.” Scott explains, “I thought it would be cool if a guitar trio covered songs by keyboard players like Joe Zawinul and Herbie Hancock, though we did some Wayne Shorter tunes as well.”

Before recording their debut album, HBC hit the road first, refining their repertoire in front of thousands of elated fans. “We try to find new ways to play at every gig,” Jeff explains. “When we are gigging our motor is always set to high.” Scott adds, “Because the three of us have so much experience playing different styles of music, we’re able to go from graceful straight-ahead jazz to heavy metal and just about everywhere in between, so it’s an extremely versatile band, which makes it a lot of fun.”

Scott Henderson is considered one of the premier jazz-fusion guitarists performing on the planet today. Although Henderson claims to be more of a blues-rock player, with influences like Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix and Ritchie Blackmore, it was the influence of jazz that led him to the style of playing and composing he is now famous for. Henderson has recorded and toured with such notable artists as Chick Corea’s Elektric Band, Jean-Luc Ponty, and a four year stint with Weather Report legend Joe Zawinul. He formed the band Tribal Tech in 1984 with bassist Gary Willis, and recorded ten critically acclaimed albums. In 1991 Scott Henderson was named by Guitar World as the #1 Jazz Guitarist, and in January 1992 he was named #1 Jazz Guitarist in Guitar Player’s Annual Reader’s Poll. Henderson has also released three well-received solo albums as well as two releases with Vital Tech Tones, a trio collaboration with bassist Victor Wooten and ex-Journey/Vital Information leader Steve Smith on drums. As is often the case with a musician of Scott’s caliber, the demand is great that he share his knowledge with the current generation of guitarists. He is on the faculty at Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, and has written columns for Guitar Player, Guitar World and Guitar School magazines.

Jeff Berlin is a legend of the electric bass, considered by many to be the finest electric bass player in the world. A true master of the bass, Jeff Berlin has played with the likes of Bill Bruford, Alan Holdsworth, AWBH and George Benson. Jeff Berlin’s resume reads like the who’s who of the higher echelon of music artists. Jeff Berlin was even asked to join Van Halen, an invitation that he actually turned down. Not only is Jeff Berlin a innovator in the jazz field, but rock players are constantly siting him as their major influence. Carlos Santana called Jeff the “best bassist in the world”, while Rush’s Geddy Lee used the phrase “best bassist on the planet!” Jeff Berlin’s innovative bass playing has influenced a generation of bass players world-wide. He was voted #1 Jazz Bassist by the readers of Guitar Player Magazine. Jeff also pioneered a technique called ‘two handed tapping’, when he performed this style on the track “Motherlode” from his 1985 debut solo album called ‘Champion’. The founder of The Players School of Music in Clearwater, Florida, Jeff has also been at the forefront of music education for almost 30 years. His columns in Guitar Player and Bass Player magazines were the most read columns due to their controversial content of music education. Jeff single-handedly has re-vamped music education by dismissing popular methods of learning such as using electronic tuners, metronomes, handgrips, tablature, or any study method that does not include musical content.

Dennis Chambers is a miracle in modern music; a formidable, ferocious and ultra-funky presence behind the drum kit in such celebrated ensembles as Parliament-Funkadelic, Steely Dan, Santana and the Brecker Brothers, as well as incendiary fusion outfits led by guitarists John Scofield, Steve Khan, Mike Stern and John McLaughlin. A remarkably versatile drummer who has shown limitless abilities to swing on a small kit in traditional jazz settings or flaunt his stylistic chops in rock-fusion super sessions, Dennis Chambers is one of the most recorded and sought after drummers in the world of Jazz-Fusion. In 2007, just before Led Zeppelin was scheduled to perform at the O2 Arena in London, John Bonham’s son Jason was asked in an interview, if he was to give up the drum seat for the reunited Zeppelin, who would he recommend to fill the coveted drum throne. He replied, “I would probably want a jazz drummer with a strong swing feel. Dennis Chambers…I think he would ‘get it’, whereas other rock drummers wouldn’t.”

And now, these three icons of jazz-fusion have come together to form a supergroup that has recorded a ground breaking debut CD! “I’m happy with it,” Scott says of the new CD, “and for me that’s saying a lot because I’m very self critical. Being a big fan of the musicians we covered, I worked really hard to make the songs sound as huge and textural as they are on the original recordings, which meant doing a lot of layering.” Jeff concludes, “I coundn’t be more pleased with the results.”

‘HBC – Henderson, Berlin, Chambers’ will be available on Amazon, iTunes, Shrapnel Records and local record stores on October 16, 2012.

To purchase ‘HBC – Henderson, Berlin, Chambers’: http://www.amazon.com/HBC-Berlin-Chambers-Henderson/dp/B00936A2SM/ref=sr_1_1_title_0_main?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1347392766&sr=1-1&keywords=hbc

For more information:
Scott Henderson: http://www.scotthenderson.net
Jeff Berlin: http://www.playerschool.com
Dennis Chambers: http://www.dennischambers.com
Shrapnel Records: http://www.shrapnelrecords.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in HBC, Press Release

2012/09/17

From The Magical Days With Ray Charles, To The Unfolding Of Gentle Music For Healing – Enchanting Collaborations By David Hoffman And Paul Adams

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

From The Magical Days With Ray Charles, To The Unfolding Of Gentle Music For Healing –
Enchanting Collaborations By David Hoffman And Paul Adams

Sept. 10, 2012 – Asheville, NC – David Hoffman spent 13 years touring the world as Ray Charles trumpet soloist and arranger. From his dizzying experiences performing for the most prestigious a audiences in the world, he has toned the music down a bit for those looking for a place of peace. Paul Adams has made a career building instruments for some very well known musicians, he’s composed 7 critically acclaimed albums, he’s a writer and poet, and plays a vast array of exotic instruments. Paul and David’s newest venture are two albums for those in need of healing. Paul’s album SLEEP was recorded for gentle spirited man dealing with Parkinson,s Disease, and sleepless nights. SLEEP will be discounted for qualified Hospice Care and others in the Helping Profession. “I created slow dreamy songs using Native American Flutes and the sounds of Nature. I then sent them to my friend with Parkinson’s who offered feedback on each tune. He and his wife really had a good feel for what was right.”

David Hoffman’s new album THE TREE was composed for his wife Julia and her battle with Cancer. “Music has so much to offer,” says Adams. The mind is very powerful, and with music can be an influential force on the path toward health”. More and more the medical professionals are embracing the magic involved in music. Oliver Sacks, the Neurologist and Author of the movie AWAKANINGS staring Robert De Niro, and Robin Williams, authored a book entitled MUSICOPHELIA, in which he describes the miraculous power of music on Neuropathways in the brain (The Alzheimer patient not recognizing loved ones, yet their ability to play the first song ever learned on the piano. The stutterer’s difficulty communicating, yet singing lyrics with no mistake. The patient with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder using the calming effects of music to learn calm, clarity, and safety. The examples are endless.

Throughout their career, their albums have gathered international acclaim in many different areas such as World Fusion, New Age, Ambient, Jazz, and Native American. Both Adams and Hoffman’s music can be heard world wide on Satellite Networks like Sirius, as well as Terrestrial and Internet Radio. Hoffman’s album CALMNESS OF SPIRIT was voted album of the year by the INDEPENDENT MUSIC ASSOCIATION last year.

Some music professionals were dubious about Adams title SLEEP. They felt Radio might be afraid to use it. However other albums of his in a similar vein such as HEAVENS, and FLUTE MEDITATIONS FOR DREAMING CLOUDS, have been getting heavy rotation on Satellite networks throughout the world. “SLEEP is something I hope will be helpful for people in need. However, we didn’t want the albums to be purely clinical. We both tried to keep the them artistically interesting as well. We’ve heard a few albums in this genre that didn’t scratch our artistic itch. It was important to create a marriage of artistic depth and safe Serenity and healing.”

Along with these two new albums, Adams and Hoffman have created a website called A PLACE OF PEACE (www.pauladams.org/aplaceofpeace) where people can go to listen to beautiful healing and enrapturing music, video’s, and read various articles and poems specifically written for those seeking accompaniment down the path of health.

Besides his experience in music and the arts, Adams has worked in the Mental Health Field 30 years and teaches professionals how to use music in the therapeutic practice. “I’ve always wished there was a place to go where one can just sit down and be soothed, reassured, rested, and content. The use of nature in Video and Music is a very organic way to align ones self with the earth, and receive a sense of “Connection” that is needed to feel alive, safe, and rested. Both SLEEP and THE TREE are available worldwide through his web site as well as Amazon, CD Baby, iTunes, eMusic etc

Discography for Paul Adams
VARIOUS WAVES
WONDER DANCING ON GLOBAL BOP
A VIEW FROM THE PLAIN
THE PROPERTY OF WATER
IN THE LAND WHERE I COME FROM
THIS CHRISTMAS
FLUTE MEDITATIONS FOR DREAMING CLOUDS
HEAVENS
SLEEP *
Discography for David Hoffman
FROM ENERGY TO STILLNESS
THE DAVID HOFFMAN SEXTET LIVE
CHRISTMAS IN YOUR HEART
THE TREE
GROOVIN
PRAIRIE SKIES
CALMNESS OF SPIRIT
THE TREE *
Adams and Hoffman (THE NEURONS) Dance

WWW.PAULADAMS.ORG

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

Leave a comment | posted in David Hoffman, Press Release

2012/09/16

Something Else! Review – Steve Hillage Band – Live at Gong Family Unconvention, Amsterdam

By glassonyonpr

by Nick DeRiso

Even as Steve Hillage paid tribute to the psychedelic rock band Gong in 2006 at the Melkweg in Amsterdam, he also took a lengthy look back at his own underrated solo work from the 1970s.

Live at Gong Family Unconvention, Amsterdam, due in both CD and DVD formats on September 10, 2012, from Gonzo MultiMedia, focuses on the latter — as the Steve Hillage Band, which hadn’t appeared on together in some 25 years, performed tracks from 1975′s Fish Rising, 1976′s L, 1977′s Motivation Radio, and 1983′s For To Next.

What those solo albums did, this live set makes clear, is point the way for Hillage’s transition from volcanically inventive guitar player to a quirk-filled innovator behind the boards. Before he would go on to work as a producer (Simple Minds, the Charlatans, Murray Head and Robyn Hitchcock) and then architect of ambient techno (System 7), Hillage would issue a series of recordings that focused more on imaginative band interplay and textured arrangements.

The guitar work is often a long time coming, though when it finally arrives, there are these pupil-dilating outbursts of kaleidoscopic sounds — each of them their own undeniably persuasive argument for a long-awaited return to Hillage band projects.

Hillage, a member of Gong from 1973-75 before going solo, is joined here by longtime writing partner, keyboard player and vocalist Miquette Giraudy; former Gong sideman Mike Howlett (also bassist on Fish Rising); and Chris Taylor, who began playing drums with Gong in the 1990s.

Their set begins, as it perhaps must, with trippy dash through Motivation Radio’s “Hello Dawn” — with its signature bliss-rock line “Goodbye to old! Hello to the new … dimension!,” and a concluding guitar solo that sounds like re-entering too steeply from deep space — before Hillage and Co. catch a muscular power-pop groove on George Harrison’s “All Too Much,” originally covered on the Todd Rundgren-produced L.

Next, comes a trio of tracks from Fish Rising, perhaps Hillage’s deepest journey into cosmic trancery — beginning with “Aftaglid,” then “Solar Musick Suite,” a title that screams 1970s prog-rock, if ever there was one; and finally “The Salmon Song.” The main set concludes with For to Next’s “These Uncharted Lands,” which before this 2006 show had never been played live.

The expanded audio CD also includes four bonus tracks, three of which come from a 1979 show also featuring Giraudy: “Palm Trees,” “Unzipping the Zype,” and “Healing Feeling.” The final track is a separate take on “Solar Musick Suite,” this time from 1974, and also featuring Howlett on bass. The DVD has an interesting interview with Hillage and Giraudy, as well.

Source

Leave a comment | posted in Review, Steve Hillage

2012/09/14

UK Prog Legends Curved Air Release ‘Live Atmosphere’ CD/DVD

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

UK Prog Legends Curved Air Release ‘Live Atmosphere’ CD/DVD

“CURVED AIR, with a real band attitude and a zest for life; this is a band you want to see live for the sheer artistry of how to deliver the musical goods.” – Lee Dorian, Classic Rock

Sept. 6, 2012 – London, UK – Reformed in 2008 after a sabbatical of 18 years, Curved Air’s concert and festival appearances in the UK, Japan, Italy, Malta, Germany, Portugal, Holland and Belgium continue to thrill a steadily increasing mass of new and old fans. Their experimental blends of classical themes, electronic sounds and pop/rock energy and beautiful, timeless songs are performed with fire and passion and tremendous musicianship.

Now, much to the excitement of their fans worldwide, Curved Air have released a new CD/DVD titled ‘Live Atmosphere’ – ‘Songs of revolution, insanity, loss, desire and ghosts: a unique compilation of powerful Curved Air songs played by a vital contemporary Curved Air’.

‘Live Atmosphere’ includes potent new versions of many of the band’s classic early 1970’s repertoire, including the hits “It Happened Today” and “Backstreet Luv” as well as fan favorites such as “Propositions”, “Phantasmagoria” and “Stretch”. Produced by Marvin Ayres it showcases both new and original members of the band and comes with a bonus DVD with a tour featurette and an atmospheric visual collage.

The band, still fronted by Sonja Kristina, selected the tracks after multi-track recording the entire first leg of its Live Atmosphere World Tour. Sonja Kristina elaborates by saying, “We recorded this album to capture the invention and interplay of these virtuoso musicians. Robert Norton is exceptional – as is Paul Sax, a master violinist, one of the first entrants to the Yehudi Menuhin school – a passionate and brave performer very well qualified to step into Darryl’s light. All the band are brilliant players and inspiring people. Chris Harris is literally our root on bass and Kit Morgan the fire on guitar. Great chemistry and communication…”
Tracks: Atmospheric Overture (intro), Marie Antoinette, Propositions, Easy, Hide and Seek, Screw, Phantasmagoria, Melinda, Everdance, Back Street Luv, Stretch, It Happened Today, Atmospheric Overture (outro).

‘Live Atmosphere’ is available from http://www.CurvedAir.com and other online stores. A new studio album will follow by the end of 2013.

About Curved Air

Considered (according to AllMusic) “one of the most dramatically accomplished of all the bands lumped into Britain’s late-’60s prog explosion”, Curved Air is a pioneering progressive rock group of musicians from mixed artistic backgrounds.

They are famed for their unforgettable live performances and ‘Art Rock’ music – the quasi classical imprints of Terry Riley hooked onto beautiful and demonic violin combined with electronic adventurous synths and interwoven with brilliant guitar wizardry mesmerisingly embroidered by the subliminal and exotic presence of a unique girl lead singer Sonja Kristina. All these elements elevated them from the underground Roundhouse scene to top the album charts in the early ’70s.

Along with High Tide and East of Eden, Curved Air was one of the first rock bands after It’s A Beautiful Day and The United States of America to feature an electric violin, inspiringly and dramatically explored by the excellent Darryl Way and now by the dynamic Paul Sax. Original keyboard player/guitarist Francis Monkman was the trailblazer for future ‘electronica’ and ambient extemporization. Robert Norton has inherited this sonic template and himself a spinner of ethereal soundscapes extends the boundaries towards further horizons while Florian Pilkington Miksa on drums then and now, with Chris Harris’ bass guitar artistry, provides the expressive rhythmic pulse that is the Curved Air signature.

Curved Air released eight studio albums and though progressive innovators they were hailed as Pop Stars when their single, the sultry “Back Street Luv” was a Top 5 hit in 1971. The ‘Live Atmosphere’ line-up of Sonja Kristina, Florian Pilkington-Miksa, Kit Morgan, Chris Harris, Robert Norton and Paul Sax have been touring together since 2009.

Sonja Kristina

Before Curved Air, actress and singer Sonja Kristina performed in the British Folk Clubs during her teens. In 1968 she starred as “Chrissy” in the radical Tribal-Rock Musical ‘Hair’ when it opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London. As Curved Air’s lead singer and lyricist she topped the British female vocalist polls – the first UK girl singer to front a Rock band. She won the hearts of a generation of young men and boys and the music cognoscenti.

The constant flame leading Curved Air through the decades, Sonja Kristina’s hypnotic attraction endures today, “vibrant and edgy as ever, Sonja, the original prog diva gives a charismatic and highly visual performance. Looking like a glamorous gipsy queen with her flowing red hair and dressed in sparkly black, that signature voice is still smoky and seductive as she spins around the stage around the excellent musicians who are Curved Air”. (Music Street Journal)

Curved Air is: Vocalist Sonja Kristina, Drummer Florian Pilkington Miksa, Guitarist Kit Morgan, Violinist Paul Sax, Bass Chris Harris and Keyboard Player Robert Norton.

Recent Live Reviews

“All of the players impress. Although only drummer Florian Pilkington-Miksa is from the original line-up, Sonja has found some stunning new instrumentalists who immerse the audience in a set of swirling, whirling solos that emphasize moods and nuances and floating waves of sound that act as a counterpoint to Sonja’s dramatic sense of theatricality”. (Classic Rock Society Magazine)

“Sonja Kristina prowls the front of the stage… expertly playing off the energy of all the performers with her. Guitarist Kit Morgan… moves through figures, shapes and techniques with deceptive ease… violinist Paul Sax pulling sounds from his instrument like a mad scientist … there’s no denying they remain formidable live!” (Prog Magazine)

“While women in UK progressive rock were relatively few and far between… it’s Sonja that wore the crown. Well the undisputed queen of British Prog is on tour again and what a joy it is to see her and Curved Air back in action… Violinist Paul Sax… sweats for his art right from the off and with virtuoso wizardry sears through the set like a man possessed… the whole group of assembled musicians are perfectly qualified to recreate the band’s uniqueness authentically… Catch them while you can”. (Classic Rock)

Curved Air’s new release ‘Live Atmosphere’ produced by Marvin Ayres is available from http://www.CurvedAir.com and other online stores.

http://www.QEDG.co.uk (management)
http://www.curvedair.com
http://www.curvedair.com/CAproduct5.htm
http://www.facebook.com/curvedair
http://www.marvinayres.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Curved Air, Press Release