Author Archives: glassonyonpr

2012/07/08

Oxygene8 To Release Innovative New Album loop1

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Oxygene8 To Release Innovative New Album loop1

Featuring Linda Cushma, Tim Alexander, Steve Parrish, John Humphrey, Joe Myers, Fatimah Halim, Claudio Cordero

July 3, 2012 – Scottsdale, AZ – Possibly one of the most ambitious and innovative albums to be released in 2012 is the highly anticipated new CD by experimental prog/art-rock ensemble Oxygene8 titled loop1. The loop1 project began quite simply with the vision that the entire CD would be one long loop, sans divisions,an upward spiral–one huge dynamic movement of sound. Band leader and stickist/bassist Linda Cushma’s vision for the work seemed a ridiculously enormous undertaking, considering scheduling, budget and time constraints.

“Every element of the music on the project started with a loop,” explains producer Steve Parrish, “usually initiated by Linda’s stick parts or Tim Alexander’s drums. We would build around those fundamental loops with other loops, be it instruments, sounds or small clips of music. We would twist, bend, pitch shift, distort and re-invent in order to make it compliment the underlying loops. Once we had structures, we then asked the other players to jump in and add to these movements. They were aware that their work would likely be moved around and unabashedly morphed. Almost everything on the project happens at least twice, if not more…it just comes back around in a slightly different form.”

Bassist and vocalist Linda Cushma, is best known for her work with experimental prog ensemble Oxygene8 and her projects involving artist and drummer Tim Alexander, former drummer for Primus. Cushma says, “The vision for loop1, including its simple artwork happened so naturally. I heard it as one long composition, no divisions, no “songy” songs – I just wasn’t in the mood for it… I just wanted to let loose and play my guts out on this album and that’s what everyone did on the project – it’s like one long, eloquent and compelling musical conversation.”

Along with Linda Cushma and Tim Alexander, the new Oxygene8 album features bassist John Humphrey, who has recorded and toured with Scott Henderson, Carole King, Jean Luc Ponty and Savoy Brown; Steve Parrish, producer and composer who has recorded and worked with many international artists at Desert Coast studio in the mountains of Phoenix, Arizona; Joe Myers, guitarist and composer, has long worked in tandem with renowned composer Brent Michael Davids (Kronos Quartet, Joffrey Ballet), creating original scores for The Maida Withers Dance Ensemble and performing live at the World Premier of “Silent Enemy” at the 1996 Santa Fe Film Fest and has shared the stage with Adrian Belew, Daniel Lanois, Todd Rundgren, Tori Amos and Warren Zevon among others; Fatimah Halim, who launched her career as a back-up singer for Laura Nyro and recorded with Jimi Hendrix as a member of the Ghettofighters; Claudio Cordero, Chilean guitar virtuoso best known for his work with Matraz, Cast, Oxygene8 and Claudio Cordero Band.

“Oxygene8´s loop1 is definitely first in a series,” says Steve Parrish. “We had so much material when compiling the first disc that we already have several pieces of loop2 waiting to build upon.”

For more information and/or to purchase Oxygene8 loop1 CD : http://www.oxygene8.com

lindacushma.com
desertcoast.com (Steve Parrish)
JohnHumphrey.com
joemyers.net
blueprintforwomanhood.com (Fatimah Halim)
claudiocordero.cl and youtube.com/user/claudiocorderomusic/videos

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

Leave a comment | posted in Oxygene8, Press Release

2012/07/03

Swedish Country Rockers Miss Anderson To Release Highly Anticipated Debut Digital Single “Love For You All”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Swedish Country Rockers Miss Anderson To Release Highly Anticipated Debut Digital Single “Love For You All”

July 2, 2012 – Asheville, NC – One of the most talked about Country singles of the summer is ironically not from a band out of the USA but from of all places Sweden! Miss Anderson is a Swedish rock band with influences that range from 70s and 80s rock, American west coast rock and contemporary American country music. The music is inspired by artists such as Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, the Eagles, Journey and Bon Jovi, and is described as “a rock sound spiced with country, storytelling and with straight and honest lyrics.”

The band Miss Anderson consists (despite the name) only of men: Peter Rundh and Magnus Bäcklund, and five other musicians. Peter Rundh is a guitarist, founder of Miss Anderson and the songwriter for the majority of the songs on Miss Anderson’s album that will be released in the fall of 2012. Magnus Bäcklund, who among other things has won “The Melody Festival” and as Sweden’s representative came in 5th place in the Eurovision Song Contest, is Miss Anderson’s lead singer. Other musicians in the band bring solid experience to Miss Anderson through their backgrounds touring in several well-established bands in Scandinavia, Europe and the US, and their involvement in a large number of album releases.

The story of Miss Anderson has its roots in the 19th and 20th century Swedish emigration to America. Several of Peter’s relatives emigrated during this period, and his interest in the emigration has resulted in his creation of stories and music centered around a strong fictional woman he calls Miss Anderson. These stories are based on both actual and fictional accounts, and are expressed in the music and lyrics about Miss Anderson and her descendants’ reflections on life from past eras up to the present time.

Peter and Magnus originally crossed paths through common interests. Magnus liked the unique music of Miss Anderson, and Peter knew that Magnus, with his strong, rocking voice, would bring the right character to his songs with both emotion and authenticity. Miss Anderson’s music effects a genuine ‘Americana’ sound – something no other band from Sweden has gained recognition for.

The songs on the album that will be released this fall feature both songs about the character Miss Anderson’s life and times, and other songs about life in general.

The new band Miss Anderson launches its highly anticipated digital debut single, “Love For You All” in USA this week. The single will be followed by two more digital singles in the summer. In the fall the Miss Anderson album will be released as both a digital and a physical CD.

“Love For You All” is now available in Miss Anderson’s download webshop: http://www.MusicStoreNo1.com
It is also available on iTunes, Amazon and other digital media outlets.

For more information: http://www.missanderson.com
http://www.facebook.com/missandersonofficial

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

Leave a comment | posted in Miss Anderson, Press Release

2012/07/02

Examiner.com Interview with Jon Anderson

By glassonyonpr

Gary Schwind
Orange County Music
Examiner

As the original singer of YES, Jon Anderson is an artist that hardly needs an introduction. By phone, he discussed evolving with the music business, the differences between being a solo artist and a member of a band, and YES albums he would listen to today.

The music business has changed a lot since you first started. How have you had to evolve along with the music business?
It’s pretty normal for people to change and evolve. No matter what area: music, dancing, theater. We change. The music business is different now of course because of the Internet. You have to change and modify what you do with your music.

Do you find you take a different approach because of the way the music business has changed?
No. I’m still singing the same ideas I had years ago with the band. I still go on stage and sing and enjoy performing. I still sound the same as I always did. I’m still interested in longform pieces of music as well as short pieces of music. I’m just working with musicians via the Internet, so I’m able to use the Internet like a world studio.

What compelled you to write these epic, longform songs as opposed to three- or four-minute rock and roll songs?
It’s just having an adventurous mind, the idea of creating music like a journey. People sometimes want me to do that. A lot of people like to spend 10 or 15 minutes listening to the music, the musical journey. They just love it. You should never be tied to a formative three-minute pop song. Music is so much more than that.

Progressive rock is a term that gets thrown around a lot with bands like YES. Do you think it’s become more of a form or style rather than an approach to music?
There’s progression in everything: jazz, rock, folk. There’s always progression. It’s just sort of a word we use. If you look at YES music, it’s more jazz. It’s classical, swing, all kinds of folk music. It was a progression of a lot of kinds of music that created YES music, a style of music. I still follow those lines. Sometimes I’m thinking I want to rock and roll but how do I do it with a twist here or there? How do I make it different? That’s all that’s in my mind.

What are the challenges to being a solo artist as opposed to being in a band?
Being a solo artist, you can hear better. Sometimes in a band, the volume can dominate the sound of the stage. Being a solo artist, I can hear everything I do very clear. For me, the singing becomes better because I can hear what I’m doing. When you’re in a band, you’re sometimes fighting against the band to get your voice out there. You hear tapes of yourself performing and I’ve been sort of shocked at times. It’s a very different game.

Do you prefer one over the other?
I’ve been in a band for 35 years. I do solo shows, shows with orchestras, small ensembles. I like the idea of doing as many different things as I can in the next few years.

Right now, if you were going to listen to any album you’ve performed on, which one would you choose and why?
I think Fragile is one of the more innovative albums YES did, and Close to the Edge. Those are the two that stick out. Talkwas a very good album. I’d listen to those albums to return to the place we were when we made these albums. The band every now and again was in a very harmonic place and made very special music. Those are the albums I’d listen to.

Are there any artists currently that are catching your attention?
There’s a band called Grouplove that I went to see last month. They’re very good. First Aid Kit, they have very good songwriting and they make great videos. There’s a lot of great energy out there.

What would you be doing if you weren’t making music?
Traveling in space. I’d be an astronaut.

Jon Anderson plays The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on 6 July.

Source

Leave a comment | posted in Interview, Jon Anderson

2012/06/30

Hit Channel Interview with Steve Hillage

By glassonyonpr

We had the great luck to talk to a great psychedelic rock guitarist, a successful producer and ambient techno cult hero: Steve Hillage. He’s very busy with his ambient techno band, System 7 and has also recorded with Gong, Khan (with Egg’s Dave Stewart), Mike Oldfield, Soft Machine’s Kevin Ayers, The Orb, Ozric Tentacles and Hawkwind’s Nik Turner. His solo albums were produced by rock giants like Pink Floyd’s Nick Mason and Todd Rundgren. During ‘80s he produced records for Simple Minds, It Bites, Murray Head, Nash The Slash and Robyn Hitchcock among many. Read below the very interesting things he told us:

Are you satisfied with the feedback you got so far from fans and press for “UP” album?

I’m very happy with it. I’m very satisfied with “UP”. It’s a very good follow-up of the previous System 7 album, “Phoenix”.

Is there any particular concept that connects the songs of “UP”?

Well, the main thing is that we spent a lot of time in Berlin, and do quite a lot of work and some songs for this album with A Guy Called Gerald. He was one of the beginners of acid house here in UK and now lives in Berlin. He’s a well-known figure in UK dance music. We spent a lot of time with him and we wrote some tracks with him. One thing I found very nice about the Berlin thing, is that its music is very happy and joyful. It’s not like the ‘90s when techno was very dark and moody. He wanted it more joyful and he experienced it when he went in psychedelic trance area. I found in Berlin a joy that I was missing, that’s why I called the album “UP”. It’s UP-lifting. Not like cliché trance music. More on the techno side of things.

Did you try anything for the first time during the recordings of “UP”?

We worked with A Guy Called Gerald for the first time. We wrote tracks in Berlin, we had never done that before. But technically, it’s just a sort of learning new little tricks and trying some little things. We did remixes, which is a progression. No hugely great forward, technically.

Did you enjoy the making of Gong’s “2032” album (2009)?

Yes, very much! It was a very-very enjoyable experience. In a way, it was a follow-through from the Uncon Festival in Melkweg, Amsterdam in November 2006, which was a very wonderful event, very joyful.

Are you proud of Gong’s “Radio Gnome Invisible” trilogy (“Flying Teapot”, “Angels Egg”, “You” albums)?

Yes, I played on “Flying Teapot” and I did some part of the writing on “Angels Egg” and “You”.

Do you still like these albums? These are classic ones.

Yes, classic Gong albums. I do like them. These are wonderful albums. I’m very proud of them.

Do you remember any funny/unknown/unexpected story or trivia from the sessions of Kevin Ayers’ “Bananamour” album?

Oh, that was very long time ago!! We had a great time. The most important event that happened in my period with Kevin, was meeting through Kevin’s band, Gong. We had a jam session, Kevin and I, with band members of Gong, including (ed: saxophonist and flautist) Didier Malherbe in December 1972. And the jam went so well, that I kind of changed bands because if this gig.

Do you consider as one of the highlights of your career the live-in-the-studio performance of Mike Oldfield’s “Tubular Bells” album for BBC?

I think it’s a high point. One of many. I enjoyed working with Mike. We were sharing the studio with him when we did “Flying Teapot” album for Gong. We were working on “Flying Teapot” and he was working on “Tubular Bells”. The story started from the beginning in 1973.

How difficult was to have Todd Rundgren and Nick Mason (Pink Floyd drummer) as producers in your “L” and “Green” albums?

How did we get them doing? They expressed some interest in working with me and arranged this to be made. We had a contact with Nick from the last Gong album I was involved, “Shamal” (1975). He co-produced that. The Gong album after Daevid Allen left. I had also a small involvement in “Shamal” because that happened when I was leaving Gong myself.

Do you miss your Ladbroke Grove days?

This is the area where I’m speaking to you now. I live in this area since 1972.

Can you describe us these UK Underground days (International Times newspaper, The Deviants, Hawkwind)? You did some albums with Nik Turner from Hawkwind, too.

Notting Hill was quite important in UK psychedelic underground. But also we had a strong West Indian presence, which now we are celebrating in Notting Hill Carnival. But it was also a big place for punk. The Clash came from Notting Hill. Killing Joke were based here. They are good friends of mine. I had a partnership with Youth, one of the members of Killing Joke (ed: and great producer too). Notting Hill is an important part of London.

How adventurous was the transition from a psychedelic/progressive rock guitarist into an ambient techno musician?

For me, it was a very obvious transition. The ‘70s progressive rock musicians don’t understand it, I don’t know why. For me, it was completely normal in nature. From the ‘80s the psychedelic rock almost died out and the psychedelic art scene from the mid ‘80s moved towards electronic scene. Even from the early ‘80s. So, I went then with the flow. Along with a few other people, but not that many. I’m constantly surprised about how few other psychedelic rock musicians who were active in the ‘70s, made that transition, and I don’t understand that. It is the way it is. I do it from my heart and I love it.

Do you think Pink Floyd’s “Ummagumma” studio album (1969) is one of the first ambient records in music history?

To a certain extent. It’s quite rocking as well. It’s a great-great psychedelic album. I love it! I’m really into «Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together in a Cave and Grooving with a Pict». That’s ambient, he-he (mad laughs) !!!!!!

Are you happy with the triumphant return of LP format?

Obviously, I don’t believe there is a vinyl revival in dance music, because vinyl was always used in clubs for mixes by the DJs . When we did Gong’s “2032” album, we made a deluxe vinyl version on 180-gram vinyl. I did a very interesting comparison in the studio: I set up a vinyl deck really well and I compared the vinyl test pressing with the absolutely digital first generation technology. It sounded different, but it sounded better. In some ways, I really liked it in some tracks. I think vinyl is an unusual format these days. I didn’t like it for (ed: his solo) “Rainbow Dome Musick” ambient record from 1979. I think it sucked on vinyl. I hate it on vinyl. Because of its scratch, I couldn’t hear it. But I enjoyed “Rainbow Dome Musick” when I got it on CD. For music with drums and beat, I think it wasn’t that good thing.

Would you like to do an album with Brian Eno?
I know Brian Eno, I know him quite well. I worked with him, with an Algerian artist called Rachid Taha, on several tracks (ed: for Rachid Taha’s “Tékitoi” album, 2004). I did some gigs with him. I ‘m not sure if we can make an album together. I don’t think that could work very well making an ambient album together. We had a slightly different approach. But when we come together we have a shared love for Arab music.

Is there anyone you’d like to work with and hasn’t happened yet?

I ‘d love to do a track with Jeff Mills, the Detroit techno legend. Many years ago, I wanted to work with Peter Gabriel (Genesis), but I think now he’s very slow. It seems to take about 10 years to make a track. It’s frustrating that he’s bored.

Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Peter Gabriel producer) told me that “in Peter’s world things can take a very, very long time”.

(Mad Laughs) I love him, I love Peter Gabriel, but I don’t know if I could work with him!! He’s too slow.

Have you ever rejected an offer and then regretted it?

Nothing major.

Do you think rock’n’roll is dead and everything now is about managers, contracts and percentages?

That’s a good question! In ‘60s and ‘70s was all about managers and contracts. I think now, despite all the problems with free downloading and the music on the Internet and the value of music declining, it’s actually easier now for an artist to take control and running a career without being extorted by managers and agents. So, I think in some ways, things look better now than they were. Nearly everybody in ‘60s and ‘70s was exploited on cloudy contracts. We were. All these contracts in Virgin Records were terrible. Now, that we release our stuff through our own label, it’s fantastic. We release System 7 and Mirror System on A-Wave. We release Gong’s “2032” album on an exceptional A-Wave label, called G-Wave. This is the first Gong album that all the consisting members were paid royalties. Everyone was paid royalties. We made a profit. Now we have the “Steve Hillage Band live at Gong Uncon event”, which now we are re-releasing it. It came out first on first printing in 2009, now we are giving it a full release on G-Wave. We release it on 10th September and it’s on our label. We are in control and it’s great.

Do you think you should have received more recognition for your work all these years?

I don’t know, because I didn’t really play the rock ’n’ roll guitar hero game. I didn’t like it. Because I didn’t play that game, I was very free. I’m happy about that really. That is one of the reasons I moved into the electronic sphere.

You are in the music industry all these years. Do you think money and fame change a person? You know Sting for years, too.

I always found him a nice guy. I haven’t seen him for a few years. If you had an astonishing amount of money, obviously that could change your perspective of life. Because you don’t have the need to work tomorrow. That would change anyone’s perspective, as if you would win 100 millions on a lottery. The best way is to keep working on something you enjoy doing. To keep out your creativity working without being told what to do. I’m happy to do that for more than 40 years. That’s worth for me more than money..

Who are your influences as a producer?

George Martin (The Beatles producer) and Trevor Horn (Yes, Paul McCartney). From the persons who produced my albums, I learned a lot from Malcolm Cecil and Nick Mason. I think music is far beyond producing. My number one hero is Jimi Hendrix. All levels.

What kind of music are you listening to this period?

I’m listening mostly dance music. There is a great new record that is coming out by The Orb with Lee “Scratch” Perry, the legend of dub reggae. It’s fantastic. Alex (ed: Paterson, The Orb) played me some tracks last week and sounded fantastic.

Is there any cover you’d like to do?

In the next Steve Hillage album I wish to do some more covers. I ‘d like to do “Love My Way” from The Psychedelic Furs. Todd Rundgren was their producer.

You’re really into ‘80s music.

Yes, some good thing happened during the ‘80s. I didn’t produce many albums for my own, I produced many records for other artists: Simple Minds, It Bites, Murray Head, Robyn Hitchcock. I put up a lot of new musical knowledge in the ‘80s. For some people, wasn’t a good period, for me it was great the ‘80s.

Do you like Depeche Mode?

I do. I respect them. It’s a very important band.

I don’t like them. I think Depeche Mode and U2 are overrated bands.

No, no, no. I don’t think so. “Everything Counts (In Large Amounts)” (ed: Depeche Mode song) is brilliant.

U2 had always great producers. I don’t think they could do an album with the budget of a System 7 record.

Totally different things.

How possible is to play soon in Greece?

We need a Greek promoter to book us. I’m working on various projects. I would love to come with System 7. We are going to do another Steve Hillage Band tour in one year or two, if anyone is interested in booking us. There is another project I want to mention to you, called Phoenix Rising. It’s a collaboration between System 7 and a Japanese psychedelic rock band called ROVO. We play a mix of techno versions of ROVO tracks and ROVO live versions of System 7 tracks. It’s very interesting. We are going to write a new album in September. We are going to release the album next year and do a tour. Hope to come to Greece. System 7: Miquette (ed: Giraudy, the other half of System 7) and myself, and the ROVO band: two drummers, bass player, another guitarist, a really good keyboard player and an electric violin player, Yuji Katsui. He played on a few tracks on the last System 7 album and on Gong’s “2032” album. It’s very interesting the sound of his electric violin and my electric lead guitar, it’s a little bit like Mahavishnu Orchestra and John McLaughlin. Like a psychedelic electronic Mahavishnu Orchestra. You’ll hear about the project Phoenix Rising during next year.

A huge “THANK YOU” to Steve Hillage for his time and to Billy James for his valuable help.

Please check http://www.a-wave.com/system7

Source

Leave a comment | posted in Interview, Steve Hillage

2012/06/29

Sixties Rock ‘n’ Roll Legend Tommy Roe Releases New CD ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Sixties Rock ‘n’ Roll Legend Tommy Roe Releases New CD ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’

6/28/2012 – Hollywood, CA – International ’60s music legend and pop pioneer Tommy Roe is back and better than ever with his first new CD release in many years! Titled ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’, Tommy Roe delivers a new album that not only contains the rock ‘n’ roll music we grew up with but songs with important messages for today’s times! “I called the new CD ‘Devils Soul Pile’, after a song I have written and included in the line up,” explains Tommy. “The song is a departure from my normal and expected style, and one that tells the story of dysfunctional families, and the effect it has on our youth and our neighborhoods. Lyrically, this song is a bit serious, and was inspired by the everyday news of violence in our neighborhoods and cities. But a song that ends with a message of hope.” Other new songs include “Memphis Me”, “Remember”, “It’s For You I’m Me”, “Without Her” and “Water Underneath My Burning Bridge”.

“For me, songwriting comes in waves and I will write as many new songs as possible during these short periods of creativity,” says Tommy. “This collection contains some of my latest efforts and although I never know when the next rush of new ideas will come, if ever. I am always hopeful for just one more song to write. It’s just something I love to do and I hope you enjoy.”

“Get Ready to party…Tommy Roe sounds better than ever!” LARRY KLEIN-Executive Producer: Dick Clark Productions

In support of his new album Tommy has been performing several select dates in the US and Canada. Tommy and the band are also looking at offers from the UK and Europe for the upcoming year. A bona fide international star, Tommy Roe wrote and recorded 6 “Top 10” hits between 1962-69, more than any other solo American artist. To his credits he has 11 US Top 40 hits, 6 Top 10s, 4 Certified Gold singles, and 2 #1 Hits. He is a member of the Hit Parade Hall of Fame, The Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. On September 2, 2012 Tommy Roe will be inducted into the Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Music Association (IRRMA) Hall of Fame. (http://iowarocknroll.com/news.php?id=201) Born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, Tommy began writing songs at the age of fourteen, and his first recording effort yielded the international #1 hit..SHEILA. In 1963, Tommy Roe headlined the now famous UK tour, in which a rising band called The Beatles were the opening act!!

AN EVENING WITH TOMMY ROE is a new show featuring all his hits, plus less familiar tunes,
and new material as well. The show features full band, unplugged and solo segments.The band is led by veteran guitarist/music director Rick Levy. Rick plays Epiphone guitars exclusively on tour with Tommy Roe. “I am really excited about my new show,” says Tommy. “I will be featuring some of the new songs I have written, along with some obscure material I have recorded through the years, and get many requests to do. Of course I will highlight the hits, like ‘Sheila’, ‘Everybody’, ‘Hooray For Hazel’, ‘Sweet Pea’, ‘Jam Up and Jelly Tight’ and ‘Dizzy’, along with some of my favorite covers. I will also do a Q&A session in the middle of the show while the stage is being set for my acoustic set with band leader and lead guitarist Rick Levy. This is a new addition to our show, and something I really enjoy. It gives me a chance to get up close and intimate with our audience, kind of like I do at home with family and friends.”

Tommy Roe will be performing on these dates:
June 16 – Fountain of Life Fair – Gray, TN
June 18 – The Villages – FL
August 31 – DiamondJo Casino – Dubuque, IA
September 1 – Winnavegas Casino – Sloan, IA
September 2 – Hall of Fame Induction – Arnolds Park, IA

Tommy Roe promo video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acd5ZTjEKaA&feature=youtu.be

To purchase Tommy Roe ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’ CD http://cdbaby.com/cd/tommyroe

To purchase Tommy Roe ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’ digital download from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Devils-Soul-Pile/dp/B0088V0986/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1339640677&sr=1-1

To purchase Tommy Roe ‘Devil’s Soul Pile’ digital download from iTunes:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/devils-soul-pile/id533340557

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

Contact: Rick Levy Management (904) 806 0817
rick@ricklevy.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Tommy Roe

2012/06/26

Classic Rock Legends Jefferson Starship To Release Exclusive Live 4-CD Set ‘Tales From The Mothership’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Classic Rock Legends Jefferson Starship To Release Exclusive Live 4-CD Set ‘Tales From The Mothership’

The Paul Kantner Science Fiction Rock & Roll Motion Picture Show!

June 26, 2012 – London, UK – “Roswell UFO Parade & Festival Hosts Jefferson Starship Sci-Fi Extravaganza” read the headlines for the annual July 3rd event that took place in Roswell, New Mexico in 2009. Jefferson Airplane founder Paul Kantner and his legendary band Jefferson Starship and special guests, which included original Grateful Dead keyboardist Tom Constanten, performed a one-of-a-kind sci-fi concert at Pearson Auditorium in Roswell in honor of the town’s famed annual parade. The group was also bestowed the honor of being the parade’s ‘Grand Martians’ that year and rode atop a special float especially built for them. The entire concert was filmed and recorded, and in addition to such iconic hits as “White Rabbit”, “Somebody To Love”, “Volunteers”, “Wooden Ships” recorded by its forebear Jefferson Airplane (the last two penned by Kantner), a special programme of science fiction themed compositions and select recordings were performed, some for the first time ever! Now, much to the excitement of Jefferson Starship fans across the globe UK’s Gonzo MultiMedia is releasing the the entire concert in an extravagant 4-CD box set.

In 1971 the band’s first album (Paul Kantner’s first solo album actually), ‘Blows Against The Empire’ was also the first rock music recording ever nominated for literary science fiction’s prestigious Hugo Award. In addition to Kantner, ‘Blows’ featured a ‘Who’s Who’ of Bay Area musicians including David Freiberg from Quicksilver Messenger Service. Freiberg and Kantner, later launched the ongoing Jefferson Starship, eventually writing the hit “Jane.” David rejoined the band full time in 2005.

In 1991 the late great rock impresario Bill Graham signed on to produce ‘Blows’ from a ‘scripted stage play concept’ co-written bu Paul Kantner and his (then) new manager Michael Gaiman, a lifelong fan. Sadly, Bill was killed in a helicopter crash and the idea was shelved until Sony Pictures pitched an ‘option’ for a ‘Blows’ motion picture in 1996. “That was a big year for sci-fi,” recalls Gaiman. Stemming from a shared interest in 1950s science fiction film and literature, Paul and Michael have worked together for nearly 25 years. In 2008 they co-produced (along with David Freiberg), ‘Jefferson’s Tree of Liberty,’ Jefferson Starship’s first studio recording in a decade. The album garnered stellar reviews worldwide. In 2009 Jefferson Starship headlined ‘The Heroes of Woodstock’, the authorized touring commemorative of the 1969 Woodstock Music & Arts Festival.

“On July 3rd, 2009, thanks to the Roswell UFO Festival Committee and Cool 94.9 Radio, we got to scratch that itch and assuage a long time desire to stage a mosh of rock music and science fiction,” says Gaiman.

Along with Paul Kantner and David Frieberg, Jefferson Starship also features lead singer Cathy Richardson (who played Janis Joplin on Broadway in ‘Love, Janis’) and longtime band members Slick Aguilar, Chris Smith and Donny Baldwin. In addition to Grateful Dead’s Tom Constanten, special guests include Pete Sears (the band’s former bass & keyboard player on all their hits), Barry Sless (guitar & pedal steel with Phil Lesh & Friends), former lead vocalist Darby Gould and legendary folk artist Jack Taylor, one of Paul Kantner’s early musical influences.

Renegade Productions, the band’s frequent collaborator (‘Jefferson’s Tree of Liberty’ was the first album ever recorded in their new studio at the time) staged the production and provided custom sound, lighting and image projection. Karl Anderson of Global Recording Artists filmed the event dubbed ‘Tales From The Mothership,’ a joint production of The Roswell UFO Festival Committee and Jefferson Starship. “It’s not a documentary, not a ‘rockumentary’, not a ‘mockumentary’…it’s a ‘Spockumentary,” Gaiman quips.

Along with the entire concert from July 3, 2009, the 4-CD set also includes rehearsals from 6/27/2009 and the band’s soundcheck before the show.

For more information: http://jeffersonstarship.com

To order Jefferson Starship – ‘Tales From The Mothership’ 4-CD set: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/search/product_details/15498/Jefferson_Starship-Tales_From_The_Mothership_-_Roswell_UFO_Festival_3_July_2009.html

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

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2012/06/22

Avant Prog Ensemble miRthkon to Release New Live DVD

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Avant Prog Ensemble miRthkon to Release New Live DVD

June 20, 2012 – Oakland, CA – The prog world is buzzing with excitement about the forthcoming DVD release by miRthkon; Oakland, CA based amplified chamber ensemble masquerading as a rock band. This illusion is well maintained by the fact that from time to time they do indeed rock. Maintaining a passionate aesthetic stance that they are (quite happily) ‘beneath everything’, their music – whether evoking the direct or indirect influence of progressive rock, contemporary classical abstraction, avant-garde jazz, catchy hook-laden pop, or thrash metal – is held to a simple but firm standard: Does it sound good? miRthkon’s forthcoming live DVD titled (Format) is a testament to the group’s innovative approach to live performance and music in general.

“The DVD was somewhat of an accident,” explains band leader and guitarist Wally Scharold. “It was not planned. We had incorporated live and pre-recorded video projection in our shows since mid-2008. These were originally introduced as short interludes between songs to keep the audience engaged during long song breaks due to required technical changes to perform the next song. By the time we played CalProg in October 2010, our multimedia approach was at its most ambitious, including nearly 30 of these videos. It was very well rehearsed and we performed it beautifully, all captured in a free 32-track recording, provided by the festival. I had filmed our set from a single angle in the hall’s light booth for archival purposes, which was hardly enough to justify a legit concert film. But after reaching out to the fans, we managed to track down a couple more angles – one very close to the stage – and suddenly we had the raw footage to cut together something. However, the lack of any real planning (and professional videographers) made for less than ideal footage, so we had to get really creative with the editing when we just didn’t have the shot we wanted. One and 1/2 years later, it’s finally done.” Unlike a standard concert film, (Format) integrates interviews, surrealistic documentary footage, and an underlying plot pointing to a vast conspiracy!

miRthkon’s diverse musical influences range from Classical: Webern, Stravinsky, Dutilleux, Varese, Feldman, Gerhard. Metal: late 80s/early 90s thrash, Meshuggah, Fantomas. Avant-Rock: Mr. Bungle, Albert Marcoeur, Thinking Plague, Tipographica, Magma. Jazz: Eric Dolphy, Jimmy Giuffre, Anthony Braxton, Muhal Richard Abrams, Henry Threadgill, Hermeto Pascoal, Itibere Orquestra Familia, Ben Monder, Raymond Scott. Pop/Rock: ZZ Top, Michael Jackson, Ben Folds. “Zappa is the primary influence, on multiple levels: the approach to the music is similar how the rock band format is run much more like a chamber ensemble,” says Wally. “Players need fluency in virtually all modes of performance practice in which their instrument is or has been involved including contemporary classical, big band to avant/free jazz, metal, prog, funk, etc. Zappa’s attitude/philosophy/aesthetic/humor is also a huge influence. In a way, you could say we’ve hopped on to a similar thread of ‘Conceptual Continuity’. We employ his ‘journalistic’ approach of incorporating experiences from our own life/environment into the content of our work. Often to an extreme, though most of that goes over peoples’ heads.”

miRthkon is:
Wally Scharold – guitars, vocals, composition, sound design, conceptual design, text, video, producer
Travis Andrews – guitars
Matt Lebofsky – bass guitar, vocals
Carolyn Walter – piccolo, flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone
Jamison Smeltz – alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, vocals
Matt Guggemos – drums and percussion
Jarred McAdams – video, text, conceptual collaborator

Here’s what the press has said about miRthkon:

“A big-sounding, in-your-face outfit, adopting the familiar format of RIO/Avant ensembles (a core plus a number of guests and collaborators), they have immediately established themselves as a name to watch with one of the most impressive debut albums of the past two decades (and possibly longer).” – Raffaella Berry, Progressor.net

“Their brand of avant-rock with jazzy and big-band-like interludes, backed by metal-ish sounding guitars and reed instruments of sorts is a delight to listen to, as they go nuts and move progressively forward in an abstract–like manner. Listening to this brought to my mind, Mr. Bungle, Frank Zappa, Miriodor and Invincible Czars, to give you a rough estimate of what to expect.” – Assaf Vestin, Sonic Frontiers

“It’s prog rock. But there’s so much more here that you won’t find in typical prog circles: a rollicking sense of humor, a heavy dose of real jazz (garbled, knotted free jazz, NOT the occasional major-7th chord that rock reviewers call “jazz”), and amusing spoken-word segments like futuristic (yet old-world) radio announcements.” – Forrest Bryant, Memory Select

“The variations within the compositions are so many that trying to describe each track would make this article more like a book than a review. The music throughout is intense, sometimes dark and heavy, sometimes playful but always adventurous.” – Richard Barnes, Sea of Tranquility

“For those in the know, miRthkon means ‘the illusion of joy” – and for those in the know, this is a misnomer, for there is no illusion. This was pure joy.” – Richard Warp, Berkeley Music Examiner

In support of their new DVD release, miRthkon will tour thee US in August. Joining the band at various stops will be MoeTar, Lovely Little Ladies (Cheer Accident side project), District 97, Thinking Plague, Kayo Dot, and TBD.

miRthkon Tour Dates:
8/11 Baltimore
8/12 NYC
8/13 NYC
8/14 Philly (Sellersville)
8/15 Cleveland
8/16 Detroit
8/17 Chicago
8/18 Chicago
8/19 Kansas City
8/20 St. Louis/TBD
8/21 Omaha
8/22 Denver
8/23 Santa Fe
8/24 Tucson
8/25 San Diego
8/26 LA
8/28 SF

Release date – July 3, 2012

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

To pre-order miRthkon (Format) DVD: http://www.miRthkon.com/format.html

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

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2012/06/19

Glam Rock Icon Michael Des Barres Returns To His London Roots With ‘Carnaby Street’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Michael Des Barres Returns To His London Roots With ‘Carnaby Street’

June 18, 2012 – Los Angeles, CA – There is much excitement within the music press and fans alike around the world about the news of the return of glam rock icon Michael Des Barres and his forthcoming CD release ‘Carnaby Street’ On Gonzo MultiMedia, UK. Michael Des Barres has been in the rock ‘n’ roll scene for four decades now. A European nobleman, brought up in England, living in Los Angeles, but with an enduring love of delta blues and the rock and soul of the mid-60s beat boom, he was front man for such seminal 1970s bands as Silverhead and Detective (featuring Tony Kaye of Yes). Jimmy Page personally signed Detective to Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song records in 1975. From 1982 to 1985, Michael was a member of Chequered Past, which included Steve Jones from the Sex Pistols. Clem Burke and Nigel Harrison from Blondie, and Tony Sales of Todd Rundgren (‘Runt’) and Tin Machine fame. Michael Des Barres was also the singer with the touring and LiveAid version of The Power Station, a Duran Duran spin-off band that became one of the most iconic live acts of the mid-1980s. In 1985, Michael penned the song “Obsession”, which became a number one hit in 27 countries for LA new wave group Animotion; the track has been featured in numerous movies throughout the years.

After over 40 years of recording and performing, Michael has returned to his mid-Sixties roots with ‘Carnaby Street’, his first new album in many years. Revisiting his youth in swinging London, ‘Carnaby Street’ is an aural window into rock and roll’s past through the eyes and mind of Michael Des Barres. “The music I am making now is inspired by my past in the mid ’60s / early ’70s,” Michael explains. “As a kid I would go watch all the skinny white blues rock ‘n’ roll musicians in the clubs and it hit me like a hammer! I was so influenced by both the courage of these young white guys combined with the soulful rawness of the African American bluesmen, and the hybrid was so fascinating to me that it really stimulated my entire musical vocabulary. So, a couple of years ago, when I started writing songs again, I realised that I wanted these new songs to be as authentic as I had initially heard and was inspired by.”

This album may quote from the idioms laid down by Wilson Pickett, Zoot Money, and The Rolling Stones, but it is no exercise in retro-stylings. This is very much a piece of the second decade of the 21st Century. It may even be Michael Des Barres’ most important work to date. The opening line of the title track immediately sets the tone of the album; “I was 19 in 1967, on the streets of London. I was in Heaven. I was Oscar Wilde in velvet jeans. Everything you’ve heard is everything I’ve seen.” He is adamant that this is not an homage to mid-Sixties music, but a contemporary album by a contemporary band presenting songs about that particular time in his life: a time when as a teenager just entering manhood the world as a whole was celebrating ‘The Summer of Love’. “The name of the album ‘Carnaby Street’, for me, is a metaphor for the swinging London ’60s,” says Michael, “that whole youth cultural revolution that literally changed the world. So the name reflects my desire to go back to the roots, the joy and the love of the music when I first heard it.”

British born the Marquis Michael Philip Des Barres, along with his excursions into rock stardom, is also a gifted actor and is best known for his reccurring role as Murdoc on the popular television show ‘MacGyver’. He has been featured in dozens of movies and television shows over the past 40 years (including Seinfeld, ALF, Frasier, Bones, Ellen, Nip/Tuck and Pink Cadillac with Clint Eastwood) and was also a featured actor in the ’60s classic movie ‘To Sir With Love’ featuring Sidney Poitier. Michael was formerly married to GTO’s member Pamela des Barres, best known for her top-selling book ‘I’m With The Band’.

Recently, Michael Des Barres reunited with Silverhead for the first time in 38 years and performed to sold out audiences in Japan in April 2012. The reaction from the Japanese audience was electric! Michael is still very active acting and was featured in the US FOX television show ‘The Finder’ on May 4, 2012. A recent guest appearance on the new season of USA Network’s ‘Suits’ will air sometime this summer. He is also featured in the movie ‘California Solo’, in which Michael plays the manager of Robert Carlyle’s ex-rocker character, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah on January 25th. In support of Michael Des Barre’s new album release, several live shows are currently being scheduled. “The majority of the people that have come to see us play, and we’ve only played perhaps a dozen shows, has been 80 percent a young audience, early and mid-twenties, who consider us an indie band, ironically,” says Michael. “The music we are playing is below the waist rock ‘n’ roll, and I think that the audiences are kind of starved for a carnal, sensual, sexy blues music. There’s nothing ironic about our music – there’s nothing angry or apologetic about our music. We are there to make people happy and joyous and fall in love.”

In closing Michael Des Barres has this to impart to his followers of the past four decades: “The message that I have to say to fans and friends, and I don’t think of them as fans, I think of them as friends – and they are friends. We should all be friends, and really my belief in connection and engagement and letting people into your life… and I say it in the briefest possible way – LOVE EVERYONE NOW!”

Michael Des Barres ‘Carnaby Street’ CD release date July 10, 2012

For more information visit Michael Des Barres official website: http://www.desbarres.com
‘Carnaby Street’ website: http://www.mdbimmedia.com/

To pre-order Michael Des Barres ‘Carnaby Street’ CD (Special Edition):
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15483/Michael_Des_Barres-Carnaby_Street.html

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

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2012/06/18

Rock Chicago Magazine Review – Jon Anderson in Viper Alley

By glassonyonpr

Jon Anderson Blows Away Viper Alley!
by rockchicago

I had seen Yes during their 35th Anniversary Tour in 2004 and was so impressed by Jon Anderson’s voice which was as outstanding as ever after all these years. However, he had suffered from some life-threatening health issues since that time and had recovered, so I was eager to see if his voice had held up. In addition, I was also interested to see how his solo acoustic concert would compare to the Yes show I had seen and if it could keep my interest.
I attended the concert with my wife, who absolutely loves Jon Anderson’s voice. As we were waiting for the concert to begin she noticed an empty table at the front center of the stage which had a bouquet of roses laying there. Our question of who they were for was quickly answered as a woman walked out from the side of the stage just before the concert began and took her place at the table…it was Jon Anderson’s wife! All of a sudden there was the sound of birds over the speakers and then Jon Anderson came on stage to a standing ovation.
Before I delve into the music let me talk about Jon Anderson himself. There is an aura or a glow about this man which is so compelling. Warmth, sincerity, and spirituality emanated from him which engulfed the audience throughout the entire concert. There was absolutely no doubt that he was beloved by the concertgoers and he repaid the adoration with a wonderful concert experience.
As I inferred earlier, I was concerned that a solo acoustic concert would be less than compelling. When he began singing and I heard that distinctive voice, all my trepidation disappeared. He opened with a Yes song, “Yours is No Disgrace” playing the acoustic guitar and gave a very spirited rendition. He followed with another Yes song, “Sweet Dreams” and his enthusiasm swept over the audience who joined in by clapping along.
The most surprising aspect of the evening for me (and my favorite part) was his interaction with the audience. He would reminisce about his life/career and would then segue into a song. He was very entertaining, was quite the storyteller, and quite humorous.
He introduced the next song “America” by announcing he had become an American citizen a couple years ago. He then said he “can sing what I want now without worrying about being chucked out.”
In one of the humorous exchanges of the evening he talked about how he composed the Yes song “A Time and A Word” in 1969 as a reggae song. He said it was the only thing he remembered from that time and that he must have had a good time. He said he showed the song to his Yes band mates who said “We don’t do reggae, Jon.” He then performed it in a very spirited reggae style which the audience got into and clapped along enthusiastically. He then moved seamlessly into a cover of Bob Marley’s “One Love” which became an audience participation sing-along.
He then brought out a Chinese stringed instrument he called “George” and explained during his illness when he could not sing he would play this instrument to pass the time. He played two songs with this instrument “Under Heaven’s Door,” which the audience once again clapped along to and a selection from his solo album from the mid-1970s “Olias of Sunhillow” which was greeted with resounding applause “Flight of the Moorglade.” As I was watching him perform I was struck by the fact that he was having so much fun up there and was feeding off the enthusiasm of the audience.
Jon then shared a story about Vangelis, one of his frequent collaborators. He had mentioned that after Rick Wakeman left Yes he recruited Vangelis to replace him on keyboards. During rehearsals when Vangelis saw Steve Howe and his guitar he said “the electric guitar is not a real instrument.” Jon said Steve and Vangelis never spoke again and Vangelis left the band two weeks later. Back on guitar he played “I’ll Find My Way Home,” a Jon and Vangelis song which made the top ten inEngland.
Jon then went into a rousing rendition of the Yes classic, “Starship Trooper” and when he was hitting the high notes the audience roared its approval. When he went into “Wurm,” the closing instrumental section, his guitar playing intensified and he began scatting along! A definite highlight in my book. The audience agreed and rewarded him with a standing ovation.
He had a bit of a senior moment as he began the Yes song “To Live Again” when he said “I can’t remember the first line.” Well he eventually did and it was a very touching song, knowing all his past health trials and tribulations. He reflected that in 2006 his wife saved his life over and over again as he went through “seven or eight operations.” He then introduced the song “Unbroken Spirit” which he had received the lyrics to from a Polish musician and talked about its importance to him. As he sang the audience understood the song’s significance to him and I could see they were really into the lyrics as he performed. That is the effect of his charisma.
He followed that poignant moment with “Owner of a Lonely Heart” remarking that in 1984, Yes was the number one band in the world. He closed out the song with some scat vocals once again.
For the next segment of the concert he sat behind the keyboards. The audience was treated to a semi-Yes medley, “Close to the Edge,” “Heart of theSunrise,” and “Revealing Science of God.” My only complaint with these songs done on the keyboard was that they sounded a bit “piano lounge-like” which detracted a bit. That said a highlight of the piano set was when he did “Marry Me Again” which was absolutely lovely and he would occasionally gaze at his wife as he was singing…a special moment. To close out the piano segment he played “The Light of Love” which he turned into audience participation. He had them clap and join in on the chorus.
He took up the guitar once again and began to perform the Yes song “And You and I.” The crowd began to join in with clapping and he abruptly stopped. He said “I need to gargle.” He took a swig of water, gargled and started again! The audience got a big kick out of this as he wore a sheepish grin. As the song went on many in the audience began singing along. That led into another Yes standard, “Long Distance Runaround.”
In what was definitely one of the most interesting segments of the show he began to talk about writing his memoirs. He talked about his brother Tony, how they grew up on a farm and how they started in a band together. He then shared stories about the 60s music scene and how he met the curly haired lead singer of the band, Listen, Robert Plant, who gave him his first exposure to marijuana. He then performed the song “Tony and Me” which was basically reminisces of growing up with his brother.
He picked up “George” again and played another lively “Olias” song, “To the Runner.” Once again the “Olias” selection was well-received by the crowd.
The ensuing Yes song, “Turn of the Century” has always been one of my favorites and I was not disappointed by his version.
He closed out the set with two Yes classics. He began “Your Move” and the audience was instantly into it, clapping and singing along. Jon had the biggest smile on his face and continued to encourage the audience along. He continued into “All Good People” and the crowd was swept along. He closed with “Roundabout” and the entire audience was standing, clapping, and singing along. He received a well-deserved standing ovation.
When he came back for the encore he performed a Jon and Vangelis song “State of Independence” and the Yes song “Wondrous Stories.” Another highlight of the night was his closing song, the beautiful Yes song, “Soon.” It is such a meaningful song, wonderfully sung and the audience listened with rapt attention, almost hanging on every word, totally spellbound. When he finished the audience responded with another standing ovation. What a great show.
After the show my wife and I were speaking about the concert with both of us in agreement that it was an outstanding show. She remarked how great his voice still sounded. I know all in attendance felt the same way. As stated earlier he has such a charismatic presence and he really touches you. As he sings, he has such sincerity and he draws you right in with him. He is an amazing talent and I completely enjoyed all aspects of the show. Because of his stories he shared, I left the show knowing more about him, endearing him to me even more.
I would like to comment on the venue, Viper Alley. It is truly a great place to attend a concert. There is an intimate feel, a “club-like” setting, and the sound was superlative. An added bonus is the food. My wife and I arrived early and had dinner before the show. I was not to sure what to expect, but the food was delicious, ample portions, and the service excellent. All around it made for a wonderful evening and I know for a fact my wife and I will be back for more dinners and shows!
Reviewed by Peter S. Sakas on 6/8/12

Source

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2012/06/17

Two Deluxe Multimedia Releases from Erik Norlander and The Galactic Collective Now Available!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Two Deluxe Multimedia Releases from Erik Norlander and The Galactic Collective Now Available!

Studio and live companion editions from the noted prog rock keyboardist and synthesizer guru

June 12, 2012 – El Dorado Hills, CA – The official release date for the DVD/CD sets, Erik Norlander – The Galactive Collective “Definitive Edition” and “Live in Gettysburg,” is August 6th, 2012 when the titles will be available at retailers worldwide, but you can get them NOW from Gonzo Multimedia in the UK and on June 21st from Think Tank Media in the USA.

In 2009, master keyboardist, Erik Norlander, went into the studio with a new set of virtuoso musicians to record re-imaginings of his favorite instrumental compositions as a project called “The Galactic Collective.” In 2010, Erik released a preview of the project on CD-R through Chian Productions in Ohio. In 2011, Erik took the project on the road and recorded the results. Now in 2012, we finally have the complete document of Erik’s massive undertaking in two remarkable releases, one in studio, the other on stage. Each title includes a video DVD and two audio CDs released by Erik’s company, Think Tank Media, in partnership with UK prog giant, Gonzo Multimedia. All discs are replicated — not CD-R or DVD-R — and each contains deluxe, full-color 5×7″ booklets with extensive liner notes written by those directly involved with the project.

THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE: DEFINITIVE EDITION

The long-awaited DVD/2CD studio release from symphonic rock keyboard master, Erik Norlander, is now here. THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE is a brand new take on the best of Erik’s vast instrumental compositions written for Rocket Scientists, Lana Lane and his own solo albums over the years. Recorded on an amazing arsenal of classic analog synthesizers (including 6 Moog instruments), Hammond organ and an incredible Steinway model B grand piano at Cleveland Ohio’s prestigious Magnetic North Studio with engineer Chris Keffer and executive producer Dena Henry along with bassist Mark Matthews, drummer Nick LePar and choral vocal sections by Lana Lane and John Payne along with a suite of guest guitarists including John Payne, Mitch Perry, Mark McCrite, Ron Redfield and Freddy DeMarco, THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE is a must have for all fans of keyboard – oriented instrumental progressive rock. The DVD and 2CD set includes the complete album, ERIK NORLANDER – THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE, both on CD and DVD with the complete in-studio video shot during the actual sessions (as seen on YouTube). The DVD includes extensive interview footage of Erik discussing each song, its conception and new interpretation for this project. A second disc of well-crafted (not filler!) unreleased alternate versions and a new recording of Erik’s classic arrangement of “Space: 1999” makes up the second CD as Echoes from the Collective. Full color, detailed booklet with liner notes by Michelle Moog, Executive Director of The Bob Moog Foundation and daughter of maverick synthesizer pioneer and inventor, Robert Moog.

Featuring Erik Norlander (keyboards), Freddy DeMarco (guitars),
Mark Matthews (bass) and Nick LePar (drums) with special guests:
John Payne (guitars, choral vocals), Lana Lane (choral vocals), Mitch
Perry (guitars), Ron Redfield (guitars) and Mark McCrite (guitars)

THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE: LIVE IN GETTYSBURG

First came the studio version, now here is the live version! The DVD and 2CD set includes the complete album, ERIK NORLANDER – THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE, performed LIVE at The Rites of Spring Festival 2011 along with the “Into the Sunset Suite” and the Norlander-penned Lana Lane songs, “Capture the Sun” and “Secrets of Astrology” creatively woven into medleys to complete the celestial sojourn with guest vocals by none other than Lana Lane herself! Erik’s Modular Moog synthesizer, “The Wall of Doom,” was used extensively at this concert, and band is introduced with an excellent and informative monologue from Michelle Moog, Executive Director of The Bob Moog Foundation and daughter of the late maverick synthesizer pioneer and inventor, Robert Moog. Full color, detailed booklet includes not only beautiful photos from the concert but also liner notes by Erik’s synth tech, former Moog Music designer and ELP keyboard tech, August Worley, along with an additional article written by Erik himself especially for this release. LIVE IN GETTYSBURG is the inevitable companion to its partner release, THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE – DEFINITIVE EDITION, that contains the complete studio recordings along with extensive video interviews.

Featuring Erik Norlander (keyboards), Freddy DeMarco (guitars),
Mark Matthews (bass) and Nick LePar (drums)
with special guest vocalists Lana Lane and Debrissa McKinney

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

Order NOW from Gonzo Multimedia:

The Galactic Collective – Definitive Edition (UK/Europe)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15476

The Galactic Collective – Definitive Edition (US)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15476

The Galactic Collective – Live in Gettysburg (UK/Europe)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15477

The Galactic Collective – Live in Gettysburg (US)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15477

( LINK for cover art: http://www.thetank.com/graphics/tgcdvds-2cvrs.jpg )

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

Leave a comment | posted in Erik Norlander, Press Release