Author Archives: glassonyonpr

2022/03/23

Italian-French Composer, Keyboardist Alex Carpani To Release Concept Album “Microcosm” Featuring Members Of King Crimson, Soft Machine, Van de Graaf Generator and Others!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Italian-French Composer, Keyboardist Alex Carpani To Release Concept Album “Microcosm” Featuring Members Of King Crimson, Soft Machine, Van de Graaf Generator and Others!

Alex Carpani is an Italian-French composer, keyboardist, singer, producer, musicologist and artistic director. His forthcoming release “Microcosm” is a concept album about a world in miniature, opposed to macrocosm. Human beings can be viewed as an epitome of the universe, small-scale models of the universe, with all its variety and contradiction. When you think of microcosm, picture your home town inside a snow globe: the teeny tiny city is a microcosm of the one you live in. It is that place in miniature. All this is represented here with a series of slices of life, possible real-life experiences through the 12 songs of the album (11 original songs written by Alex, plus “Starless” by King Crimson, arranged by Alex).

“Microcosm” features guest appearances by David Cross (ex-King Crimson), Theo Travis (Soft Machine, Steven Wilson, David Gilmour), David Jackson (ex Van der Graaf Generator), Jon Davison (Yes), Bruno Farinelli (drums), Andrea Torresani (bass), Davide Rinaldi and Emiliano Fantuzzi (guitars).

Says Alex, “The album concept is philosophical and existential and concerns our life, our ‘personal universe’ regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristics of something much larger. Musically speaking I wanted to give this idea of a ‘human universe’ with its variety and contradictions, so Microcosm is very different from the 5 albums I previously released and has a richness and variety of instruments and artists on it: 9 musicians involved and as many parts including lead and backing vocals, various saxes, flute, lead synths, Mellotron, Hammond organ, piano, drums, bass, guitars, drum loops and electronics. Carlo Gnocchi, an Italian educator and writer, said that ‘Every human being is an unmistakable and autonomous microcosm’”.

Alex Carpani graduated in DAMS at the University of Bologna, Italy with a thesis on the music of Nino Rota in Fellini’s films that won the 1st prize of the Fellini Foundation. He graduated at CET, a famous Italian music school, in composition and arrangement of music for films with Stelvio Cipriani, an internationally known film music composer, after having won a European Union scholarship that allowed him to attend the school.

He has written and self-produced a great amount of instrumental music for more than 15 years in several music genres, including new age, electronic music, symphonic music, music mixed with poetry, drum ‘n’ bass, electro-jazz, music for

theatre shows and documentaries. He has won several National and International composition awards at that time.

From 2007 he has dedicated himself to rock, releasing 6 progressive rock albums with Italian and International labels which had positive feedbacks with both audience and critics, allowing him to collaborate in studio and on stage with some well-known artists of the International rock scene like David Jackson of  Van der Graaf Generator, David Cross of King Crimson, Theo Travis (Soft Machine, Steven Wilson), Jon Davison (Yes), Paul Whitehead, graphic designer of early Genesis, Aldo Tagliapietra of Le Orme, Bernardo Lanzetti, former singer of PFM.

He has performed about 130 concerts in 20 countries of 3 continents with his band, appearing in the most important live clubs and festivals of the International progressive rock scene. He has founded the band Aerostation with Gigi Cavalli Cocchi (former drummer of Ligabue, Clan Destino, C.S.I.)  releasing in 2018 the homonymous debut album with Aerostella/Immaginifica label, performing concerts in Italy, France, Germany and Canada and opening for PFM at major events as well.

In support of his new album release, Alex says, “I really hope I can perform this album live because of its predisposition to jamming and interplay and also because it would be great to share the stage with such great musicians like the ones that played in the album. We’ll see what happens in the next few months. Some videos will follow: the album teaser and the single (‘Kiss And Fly’) lyric video.”

To purchase:
https://alexcarpani.bandcamp.com/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2AX7GkJmOMWDavyqtkHhWS
https://music.apple.com/it/artist/alex-carpani/202436739
https://www.deezer.com/it/artist/4591322?autoplay=true
https://music.amazon.it/artists/B009541S94/alex-carpani
https://music.youtube.com/channel/UC2xkn0iiDNs5zWxE1Vv4biw
https://www.pickuprecords.it/catalogsearch/result/? artista=CARPANI%20ALEX&q=CARPANI+ALEX

For more information:
www.alexcarpani.com
https://www.facebook.com/AlexCarpaniOfficialPage
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8gXXwYhfTqNsBZIGZvsJOA
https://www.instagram.com/alex_carpani/
https://alexcarpani.bandcamp.com/

Discography: http://www.alexcarpani.com/official-discography/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Alex Carpani, Press Release

2022/03/22

Australian Cinematic Progressive-Rock Artist Ben Craven To Release New Album “Monsters From The Id” on May 6, 2022

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Australian Cinematic Progressive-Rock Artist Ben Craven To Release New Album “Monsters From The Id” on May 6, 2022

“Seriously well-distilled and blended” – Van Dyke Parks

“Monsters From The Id” is the logical realization of Craven’s musical trajectory thus far. It’s an album of two halves, each containing a traditional progressive rock “epic” the length of a side of vinyl. The two pieces comprise flowing parts and movements with both rock and Hans Zimmer-esque orchestral arrangements, punctuated by Ben’s distinctive lead guitar and vocals. Yet the album is predominantly instrumental.

“Lyrics are incredibly important to me,” explains Craven, “but this music was not driven by words or language. It’s pure other-worldly escapism. It’s playing dress-up, wanting to make the world look much bigger than it seems right now, trying to recall the feeling that anything is possible, no matter how unlikely that might be.”

Visually, the album cover is a treat, featuring breathtaking artwork by Freyja Dean adorning the triple gatefold CD/DVD wallet. Sonically, things are equally ambitious. A 5.1 surround mix is included on the DVD, while both stereo and surround versions are available for digital download in 24-bit 96kHz high resolution.

For downloaders, Craven is offering unique optional extras he hopes will help personalize the experience. “I’ll personally dedicate and hand-sign a digital version of the album cover, creating a one-of-a-kind image. And for good measure I’ll also send you an individualized thank-you video! There are no NFTs here, just unique digital offerings for anyone who wants them. Downloading music can feel like a detached, intangible activity for both parties. This is one way of bringing the human element back into it.”

Ben Craven is a cinematic progressive-rock artist from Brisbane, Australia. He likes to make records.

His 2011 album, “Great & Terrible Potions”, blurred the boundaries between conventional songs and orchestral soundtracks. Augmented by a stunning cover designed by legendary artist Roger Dean (Yes, Asia, Steve Hackett), “Potions” was dense, complicated and unashamedly pretentious. That is, everything a good prog rock album should be!

2016’s “Last Chance To Hear” was a triumphant masterpiece of progressive rock. Expanding upon Craven’s one-person musical palette, the album featured legendary Star Trek actor William Shatner providing spoken-word vocals for the track “Spy In The Sky”. Meanwhile, the album’s opener, “Critical Mass”, went on to win the 2016 Australian Independent Music Award for Best Instrumental.

Here’s what the press has raved about Ben Craven’s releases:

“Heavy-duty prog rock monster” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“Cracking virtuoso performance by an absurdly talented individual” – Classic Rock Society

“Craven’s one-man-band production is a prog opus for the 21st century” – Musoscribe

“Press play and this album does the rest” – Muzikreviews

Track list:
01 Die Before You Wake [19:32]
02 Amnis Flows Aeternum  [19:11]
03 Die Before You Wake (Single Edit) [4:47]
04 Wicked Delights (Single Edit) [2:40]
05 Guiding Voice (Single Edit) [3:31]
06 Amnis Flows Aeternum (Single Edit) [4:51]

Bonus DVD includes:
• main album audio in 5.1 surround (DTS 96/24)
• main album audio in high resolution stereo (24-bit PCM)
• Single Edit videos in 5.1 surround (DTS 96/24)

Release Date: May 6, 2022

CD/DVD pre-order:
Europe: https://justforkicks.de
North America: https://thebandwagonusa.com/
Australia: https://bencraven.bandcamp.com/album/monsters-from-the-id

Digital pre-order. Includes immediate download of the four “Single Edits”:
https://bencraven.bandcamp.com/album/monsters-from-the-id

Album trailer: https://youtu.be/VxCdUACi2nQ

More about digital optional extras: https://youtu.be/EUx6u1RfSJc

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

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Ben Craven, Press Release

2022/03/21

Legendary Country Rockers The North Star Band, The Band That Time Forgot, Reunite For New Album “THEN & NOW”!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Legendary Country Rockers The North Star Band, The Band That Time Forgot, Reunite For New Album “THEN & NOW”!

Welcome back to KICK-ASS COUNTRY!

1976-1982: Return with us now to those thrilling days of yester-year, when the horrors of late 70s disco, and the ravages of early punk rock, had left hard-core music fans stranded. When long-haired freaky people still roamed the earth, an endangered species. At a time when country music’s traditional forms had grown stale, and rock had lost its roll, country rockers stepped into the void. Some were outlaws, some were hippies, but all were keepers of the flame of authenticity, and when they came together, the heavens opened up! Look, up in the sky, it’s not Elton, it’s not Travolta…It’s The North Star Band!

2022: Fast forward; bringing blazing guitars, searing pedal steel, a pounding beat of thunder, and three-part soulful southern harmonies to drive hearts into a 200bpm ecstasy of fun, these guys have kept the fire burning.

Five – count ‘em, FIVE – accomplished songwriters in one band. Led by rhythm guitarist Al Johnson, a wayward vagabond of Georgetown Law, and two-time Grammy Award winner (nine nominations), bassist Jim Robeson, along with east coast guitar phenom Gantt Mann Kushner, the wizardry of Jay Jessup’s sweet pedal steel (plus mandolin, electric guitar, and banjo), Lou Hager’s soulful honky tonk piano, and David Watt Besley’s thumping bass riffs, their music is driven home by the insane poundings of Paul Goldstein’s flawless beat. The North Star Band returns our hearts and souls to the epicenter of a place that was once known as Kick-Ass Country!

THEN: Four decades ago, NSB fans piled into dance halls and honky-tonks across the country to hear them play their original music. In venues long faded to dust – Desperados, The Lone Star Café, The Carolina Opry House, County Line, Exit Inn, 117 South Main, to name a few, they played more than 300 nights a year. Lou with his soulful ballads of love and loss, Jimmy with his velvety voice, Dave with his rich vocals and incredible story-songs, Al with his offbeat look at rednecks, hippies and Wild Turkey, and Paul with his soul-searching laments, the boys offered fans a band of many colors. Records were vinyl and spun at 45 and 33 rpm.  Back in the days of analog, the NSB recorded their 3rd album in the summer of 1982, but it was never released. A recession, hard times, and life’s imperatives intervened. “THEN” is here, remastered and ready to be heard for the first time.

NOW: Fast-forward 40 years. A reunion show to a packed house at the Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, gave birth to “NOW,” a collection of newly recorded material. Surprising even themselves, the band came together in the studio to record 10 new songs that not only capture the sound & soul they delivered back in the day, but offer a fresh bold look at the country rock genre they left behind. The playing is sharp and crisp, and the vocals retain that ‘round the campfire’ feel. Their music is timeless, and the quality of the songwriting and performance seems effortless. These guys are the real deal.

A tip of the hat is due to other players who passed through this band, legends in and of themselves: Danny Gatton, Steuart Smith, Bruce Bouton, Mike Melchione, Dave Elliot, Bobby Spates, Jim (Ratso) Silman, Chad Bruce, Johnny Castle, and more.

“Yes, the earth has turned since those days, and yes, times have changed, but with the release of ‘THEN & NOW,’ you’ll hear a rebirth of the roadhouse groove. These recordings, old and new, capture the excitement of years spent on the road, telling stories about life and love with a troubadour’s voice and an authentic sound. ‘THEN & NOW,’ the feeling is the same, and perhaps that alone can help restore our faith in the way things ought to be. I know, I was there. And we’re still here. – Jimmy Patterson, President, Baker Street, LTD

The North Star Band CD Release Show will be held at The Birchmere in Alexandria, VA on Friday May 6th. For more information: www.birchmere.com
The Birchmere
703-549-7500
3701 Mount Vernon Avenue,
Alexandria VA 2230

To purchase The North Star Band “THEN & NOW”:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thenorthstarband?utm_medium=copy_link
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-north-star-band/1612277410
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/tonight-the-north-star-band/1612801379
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2zISl5BWLpe9q4MrpPso4J?si=jZ86cGQvTlybkl9MgkMBUw
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/artists/B09TW9JYP4?ref=dm_sh_dpUghc80sFxCDqtoFbhYfjqKl

For more information:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/originalnorthstarband
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thenorthstarband/
Website – https://www.thenorthstarband.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, The North Star Band

2022/03/17

FS3 Trio Featuring Austrian Guitarist Joe Doblhofer Releases Debut Album “Cats ‘n’ Strats”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

FS3 Trio Featuring Austrian Guitarist Joe Doblhofer Releases Debut Album “Cats ‘n’ Strats”

Joe Doblhofer is a Linz/Austrian based guitar player with musical roots in both European Classical and American Blues and Rock music, fused with a deep dedication to Jazz and other related forms of improvisational and interactive music. Working with German Jazz-Metal crossover band Panzerballett since 2010 he has now released his own trio’s debut album with his trio FS3 titled “Cats ‘n’ Strats”, a well-balanced mix of composition and improvisation, stylistically drawing from both traditions in Jazz and Blues as well as conceptional approaches found in contemporary classical music.

The idea behind “Cats ‘n’ Strats” was to combine all the aspects of making music that matter the most to Joe into one project. He wanted to make music that would balance composed parts with space for interaction and improvisation, and satisfy his need for both sophistication and savageness.

Says Joe, “‘Cats ‘n’ Strats’ blends together my affection for the possibilities of expression that the electric guitar provides with my love for Blues and Rock as well as my interest for intellectually demanding approaches known from Jazz and Contemporary Classical Music. The tunes are supposed to work equally well live in a trio setting as well as produced tracks on the album.”

Being born into a musical family Joe experienced education in classical music from an early age on taking his first steps into making music with the violin. It was not until the age of 14 when he first discovered the electric guitar as his means of expression, and with it a musical culture diametrically opposed to the one he had been exposed to so far.

While first being fascinated by the rawness and power of guitar based music he later discovered the limitless possibilities of the guitar in terms of creating a distinct musical language by combining its dynamic and expressional abilities with the offerings that an academic approach to music theory and composition were able to contribute. It is this dialectic between savageness and sophistication that has been driving his musical journey ever since, resulting in his long time engagement with German Jazz-Metal act Panzerballett as well as his own trio project FS3. As a sideman he has worked with Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Randy Brecker, Mathias “IA” Eklundh (Freak Kitchen), Trilok Gurtu and others.

Says Joe, “The music to this album was written over the course of several years. After being exposed to a lot of different approaches to composition during my studies of Jazz at the university and as a sideman for projects ranging from Jazz/Metal Crossover to classical Orchestra I had to figure out what in particular would work for the music I had in mind.  The basic tracks were recorded live at a studio to get some musical interaction going. After that a lot of time went into developing parts around the original recordings as I love enhancing a track by creating little arranged details around obvious interactive parts. I want listeners to be aware though that this is a band record with real people interacting and taking musical risks. The music is supposed to be played live which was the reason to make the record in the first place.”

FS3 is:
Florian Kasper – Drums
Gerald Kiesewetter – Bass
Joe Doblhofer – Guitars

The basic tracks were recorded Feb. 14th – 16th, 2020 at Anton Bruckner Privatuniversität Linz. Additional recordings March till May, November 2020.

Produced by FS3, engineered by Matthias Kronsteiner, mixed by Tobi Wöhrer, mastering by  Michael Haider @AlphaMastering & Alphakustik.

Cover Design by Edith Gappmaier. Pics by Reinhard Winkler.

All Tracks composed by Joe Doblhofer

Videos:
Album Teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TX1H3u79DdY
Soldersniffer Blues: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTcP4EIz94s

Track list:
1 – Necessary Evil 08:18
2 – Hustle & Slo 07:09
3 – Soldersniffer Blues 07:02
4 – Loony & Blue 07:03
5 – (Ballad Of The) Blue Genes 09:51
6 – Tech Republic 05:06
7 – Black Sheep Waltz 06:08
8 – LN (feat. Jan Zehrfeld) 07:56
9 – Lost In The Shuffle 07:24
10 – Ragdoll Boogie 05:14

To purchase:
Released on Cats ‘n’ Strats Records, the album is available from www.joedoblhofer.com/shop as CD, 180g Vinyl and Download, as well as on all major streaming and download platforms.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1FNn9bMoauafkI9Wcq87vE
Apple Music: https://geo.music.apple.com/at/album/_/1601175392?
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/albums/B09NRYSZMS
Tidal: https://listen.tidal.com/album/209652886
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/album/281274491

For more information:
Web: www.joedoblhofer.com
Joe’s artist page on FB: www.facebook.com/joedoblhoferofficial
FS3 on FB: www.facebook.com/FSThreee
Joe on Instagram: www.instagram.com/joedoblhofer/
FS3 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fs3_official/

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

Leave a comment | posted in FS3, Joe Doblhofer, Press Release

2022/03/16

Bill Bruford ‘Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection’ 6CD Box Set Available For Pre-order

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Bill Bruford Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection 6CD Box Set Available For Pre-order

Released April 29, 2022 – Includes tracks from YES, King Crimson, Bruford, Bill Bruford’s Earthworks, Guest Sessions and Collaborations

Over the past 50 years Bill Bruford has been one of the most original and innovative drummers across multiple genres. Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection is a 6CD Box Set that charts some of the many highlights of Bruford’s incredible career and is released on April 29th through BMG.

From early steps with progressive legends YES and a quarter of a century in King Crimson, to ground-breaking jazz fusion leading his own Bruford and Earthworks projects, Bill Bruford has always wanted to explore his chosen discipline to the full – and then push the boundaries further. This desire to challenge convention has created some breath-taking moments and made Bruford the drummer-of-choice for collaborations with leading musicians around the world.

“My interest was with the broader discourse on drums and drumming, rather than any notions of success or fame,” says Bruford. “The latter I could do little about but, in the 1960s, the former was wide open and meaningful contribution seemed everywhere possible. The context in which the first track in the set was conceived bears almost no relationship to the context in which the last was, four decades later.”

“There was a big premium put on the notion of difference. I wanted to sound different to contemporaries like Carl Palmer (ELP), Brian ‘Blinky’ Davison (Nice) or John Bonham (Led Zeppelin). I figured if I hadn’t heard it before, the other guys in the band probably hadn’t either. Thinking up interesting things to do on a drum kit was my reason to exist. I also thought that was what they were paying me to do. I didn’t care much what the critic, commentator or musicologist thought, and that was to remain my lodestone, my modus operandi for many years.”

For this anthology Bruford has selected tracks from across his whole career, comprising works from some 23 different artists and bands over a 40-year period. “I’ve deliberately avoided forcing them into industry categories such as ‘progressive rock’, ‘fusion’ or ‘jazz’,” Bruford adds, “on the grounds that most of the music I’ve been associated with fits very poorly into such straight-jackets – round holes and square pegs come to mind.”

The 6CD Box Set Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection includes tracks from YES, King Crimson, Bruford, Bill Bruford’s Earthworks, his work with iconic global guitarists Al Di Meola, Steve Howe and Kazumi Watanabe and collaborations with keyboardists Patrick Moraz and Michiel Borstlap and many others. The package also includes a detailed biography, written by Bruford, featuring rare and unseen photos. The outer box artwork, gatefold CDs and booklet have been designed by Bruford’s long-time artist and graphic designer Dave McKean.

Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection Track Listing:

THE COLLABORATOR
disc One
1. Yes – I’ve Seen all Good People
2. Yes – Heart of the Sunrise
3. Yes – And You & I
4. King Crimson – The Great Deceiver
5. King Crimson – Fracture
6. King Crimson – One More Red Nightmare
7. King Crimson – Starless
8. U.K. – Nevermore

disc Two
1. King Crimson – Frame by Frame
2. King Crimson – Neal and Jack and Me
3. King Crimson – Heartbeat
4. King Crimson – Waiting Man
5. Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, Howe – Brother of Mine (Radio Edit)
6. King Crimson – Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream
7. King Crimson – Larks’ Tongues in Aspic: Pt 2
8. King Crimson – Three of a Perfect Pair
9. King Crimson – Man with an Open Heart
10. King Crimson – Elephant Talk
11. King Crimson – Indiscipline
12. King Crimson – Big Funk
13. PianoCircus feat. Bill Bruford & Colin Riley – The Still Small Voice

THE COMPOSING LEADER
disc THREE
1. Bruford – Seems Like a Lifetime Ago: Pt 1
2. Bruford – Seems Like a Lifetime Ago: Pt 2
3. Bruford – One of a Kind: Pt 1
4. Bruford – One of a Kind: Pt 2
5. Bruford – Palewell Park
6. Bruford – Joe Frazier
7. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – It Needn’t End in Tears
8. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – My Heart Declares a Holiday
9. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Downtown
10. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Pilgrims’ Way
11. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Temple of the Winds
12. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Candles Still Flicker in Romania’s Dark
13. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Nerve
14. Bruford, Towner, Gomez – Thistledown

disc FOUR
1. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Beelzebub
2. Bruford-Levin – Original Sin
3. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Revel Without a Pause
4. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Triplicity
5. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – The Sound of Surprise
6. Earthworks Underground Orchestra – Speaking in Wooden Tongues
7. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – Modern Folk
8. Bill Bruford’s Earthworks – White Knuckle Wedding
9. Earthworks Underground Orchestra – Footloose and Fancy Free
10. Earthworks Underground Orchestra – Thud

THE SPECIAL GUEST
disc FIVE
1. Roy Harper – Grown Ups are Just Silly Children
2. Roy Harper – Hallucinating Light
3. Chris Squire – Lucky Seven (Single Edit)
4. Chris Squire – Silently Falling
5. Al Di Meola – Calliope
6. David Torn – Voodoo Chile
7. Kazumi Watanabe – Andre
8. Kazumi Watanabe – Small Wonder
9. Steve Howe – The Inner Battle
10. Buddy Rich Big Band – Lingo
11. Pete Lockett’s Network of Sparks feat. Bill Bruford – Prism
12. PianoCircus feat. Bill Bruford & Colin Riley – Achilles Feel

THE IMPROVISER
disc SIX
1. Moraz-Bruford – Galatea
2. Moraz-Bruford – Symmetry
3. PianoCircus feat. Bill Bruford & Colin Riley – Stalling Between Two Fools
4. King Crimson – No Warning
5. Moraz-Bruford – Flags
6. Moraz-Bruford -Split Seconds
7. David Torn – Previous Man
8. David Torn – Three Minutes of Pure Entertainment
9. Bruford-Borstlap – 16 Kingdoms of the 5 Barbarians
10. Bruford-Borstlap – Stand on Zanzibar
11. Earthworks – With Friends Like These…
12. Bruford-Borstlap – Low Tide, Camber Sands
13. Bruford-Borstlap – Kinship

Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection will be released as a 6CD Box Set on April 29th through BMG. Pre-order it here: https://billbruford.lnk.to/MASDPR

photo by Dave McKean

About Bill Bruford

Bill Bruford was a founder member (1968 – 1972) of progressive pioneers YES performing on, and composing for, their genre-defining trilogy The YES Album, Fragile and Close To The Edge. He would renew this association as a member of Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe (ABWH) in 1989 and for the YES Union album and tour of 1991 and 1992. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of YES in 2017.

Known for his ringing metal snare drum, crisp cymbal work and knack for complex time signatures, Bruford sought new challenges and King Crimson’s ever-shifting musical horizons gave Bruford the opportunity to explore and experiment across the following 25 years. Bruford completed his hat-trick of prog giants by joining Genesis for their first tour with Phil Collins as frontman.

Alongside his work with King Crimson, Bruford was touring with National Health, was a member of another prog-rock supergroup UK and leading his own jazz fusion band Bruford.

In 1986 he formed Bill Bruford’s Earthworks to further explore his love of jazz, a project that would last until Bruford retired from music in 2009. Along the way Bruford founded two record imprints Winterfold Records and Summerfold Records. He was ever in demand for collaborations with the likes of Patrick Moraz and Michiel Borstlap whilst also appearing on works by Roy Harper, Al Di Meola, David Torn, Kazumi Watanabe and many, many more. Through all this he continued as an active clinician with workshops and clinics all over the world, supported by Tama Drums and Paiste cymbals.

Bill Bruford’s achievements were recognised by his appearance in Rolling Stone magazine’s Top 20 ‘Greatest Drummers of All Time’ list. Following retirement from public performance in 2009, Bill authored an autobiography (2009) and was awarded a PhD in musicology from the University of Surrey in 2016. His most recent volume Uncharted: Creativity and the Expert Drummer (2018) is published by the University of Michigan Press.

For more information about Bill Bruford:
https://billbruford.com/
Facebook @Bill Bruford

For more information about the box set Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection: info.uk@bmg.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Bill Bruford, Press Release

2022/03/15

New Jethro Tull Two-Volume Book ‘Spin Me Back Down The Years! A Comprehensive Guide to the History and Pre-History of One of the Greatest Rock Bands of the 1960’s, 70’s and Beyond!’ Now Available

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

New Jethro Tull Two-Volume Book ‘Spin Me Back Down The Years! A Comprehensive Guide to the History and Pre-History of One of the Greatest Rock Bands of the 1960’s, 70’s and Beyond!’ Now Available For Pre-order

Much to the excitement of Jethro Tull fans worldwide, a new two-volume book ‘Spin Me Back Down The Years! A Comprehensive Guide to the History and Pre-History of One of the Greatest Rock Bands of the 1960’s, 70’s and Beyond!’ written by Pat Kent is now available for pre-order!

“As a lifelong Jethro Tull fan I was approached to consider writing a book about the band at a press conference for the dance group Pan’s People in 2014. The publisher at the time was looking for a book of around 200 pages. It didn’t take long to realise that would not be sufficient to tell the story of a band that was soon to span 50 productive years playing around the world and selling well in excess of 60 million records. The book has been a labour of love for the three of us, myself, Charlie Kenney and Erin Ward, dedicated to a band that has provided the soundtrack to our lives.” – Pat Kent, author

Book Editions

The books are unofficial documents containing a fan’s eye view of the history of the band looking at the contributions of the musicians as a collective. They also contain a compendium of memorabilia, photographs and a worldwide discography.

The history covers the pre-Tull days of Ian Anderson, Jeffrey Hammond, John Evans, Barrie Barlow and Glenn Cornick’s involvement in those early lineups in Blackpool of ‘The Blades’ and the ‘John Evans Band’ through Mick Abrahams and Clive Bunker’s time in and around Luton in ‘McGregor’s Engine’; as well as chronicling Martin Barre’s progression through various bands and musical styles in ‘The Noblemen’, ‘The Motivation’, ‘The Penny Peeps’ and ‘Gethsemane’ before fate, chance, luck and talent brought them together in the eventual guise of ‘Jethro Tull’.

The book will be released in three editions, each containing two volumes. The standard edition will be available in hardback and paperback.

Volume One – ‘Spin me back down the years’ – a history of the band as recounted by Pat Kent with contributions from Charlie Kenney, Erin Ward and other fans who detail some of their recollections. Lengthy interviews with Martin Barre and Dee Palmer and further input from Peter John Vetesse, Don Airey, Eddie Jobson, Andy Giddings, Clive Bunker and more.

Volume Two – Volume Two – ‘The Boy Scout Manual’ – will contain, additional images of rare memorabilia, photographs, many previously unseen, selected from our own collections, as well as from renowned photographers across the years, including, Carl Dunn, Joe Astromowicz, Tom Holsclaw, Chris Fenger and Martin Webb. This volume will also incorporate biographies of some of the key members, and an insight into the post-Tull art work of Jeffrey Hammond along with a comprehensive look at the worldwide singles collection of Charlie Kenney along with other discographies and listings of filmed performances.


The Deluxe Edition

Same as above but it will come in a presentation box housing two 12”x12” volumes along with reproduction handbill, poster, passes and photographic memorabilia. The edition will also contain a vinyl pressing of an acetate belonging to Clive Bunker of a 1968 recording featuring ‘Clive Bunker & Friends’.

The editions are available for pre-order through Gonzo Multimedia via the online Music Glue website now: https://www.musicglue.com/jethro-tull-spin-me-back-down-the-years-by-pat-kent/

For more information:
https://www.spinmebackdowntheyears.com

The Jethro Tull Group

Together we created an online presence known as ‘The Jethro Tull Group’, currently with around 10,000 members on Facebook and other social media platforms. We also set about putting our collections of recorded works, videos and assorted memorabilia together under the group’s associated free online resource at ‘The Boy Scout Manual’. ‘The Jethro Tull Group’ are an independent fan operated group.
www.jethrotullgroup.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Jethro Tull, Pat Kent, Press Release

2022/03/15

CIRCUS MIND Showcase Their ’70s Rock, Funk, and Jazz Grooves on the New Single “BABY COME BACK DOWN” From Their Upcoming BIOLUMINATE

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

CIRCUS MIND Showcase Their ’70s Rock, Funk, and Jazz Grooves on the New Single “BABY COME BACK DOWN” From Their Upcoming BIOLUMINATE

New York, NY – CIRCUS MIND is a New York-based rock outfit and the brainchild of singer/songwriter and keyboardist Mark Rechler. The band is about to celebrate its 20th year and will soon unveil their fourth release BIOLUMINATE, an eclectic collection of ’70s rock and funk with modern takes on N’awlins swamp rock mixed with Beatles pop. The first BIOLUMINATE single “BABY COME BACK DOWN” (featuring guitarist Marc Paradis of Johnny Sketch and The Dirty Notes) will be released online March 18, 2022. The single has a funky driving Caribbean backbeat mixed with rock and soul vibes amped up and synthesized through the CIRCUS MIND rainbow love machine.

CIRCUS MIND is a camouflaged Cephalopod that can change colors, moods and styles in an instant, swimming from jazzy groove rock to funky reggae roots with ease. Their last release JOY MACHINE featured Nels Cline, Marc Ribot, Ivan Neville, Walter Wolfman Washington, Scott Metzger, and more. The first JOY MACHINE single “Are You Ready?” featured guest guitar phenom Brandon “Taz” Niederauer, and its music video was well received by critics and fans alike.

Their earlier release “Silver Flower” was voted one of the Best Indie Albums of 2006 by Newsday and put a modern take on influences such as Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople while mixing in NoLa vibe influences like Dr. John, The Meters and The Neville Brothers. The CIRCUS MIND single “Jazzfest Time” was released as an ode to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. CIRCUS MIND is quite versatile and has opened for national acts (Toots & The Maytals, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators) and had many notable guests sit in on their recordings and live performances (Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band, Cyril Neville).

CIRCUS MIND’s members are diverse in their influences and playing styles. Lead vocalist, songwriter and keyboardist Mark Rechler performs with multiple projects and has played, toured, and recorded with members of The Meters, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators, Soulive, The Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Ivan Neville, and more. Spending five years in New Orleans studying music, art, & architecture helped influence his style and direction, and he always keeps his listeners salivating and wanting more.

Guitarist Jaime Scott has toured the world as a guitarist and engineer, with renowned ensemble John Lurie and the Lounge Lizards. In doing so he followed the lineage of the legendary and influential Lounge Lizard’s guitarists who came before him. “Baby Come Back Down” also features late and long-time CIRCUS MIND bassist Chris Crosby, who had studied with Oteil Burbridge of The Allman Brothers Band and Dead & Co.

The band’s rhythm section features drummer Dan Roth, a driving force of funky world influences and percussionist Steve Finkelstein, who has worked recorded and performed with pop icons from Ray Charles as well as jam band giants including members of the Dead, Allman’s, and Neville’s, and Tower of Power. Steve is also a founding member of the Funk Filharmonik.

New Member Saxophonist Michael Amendola holds a BA in Arranging from The Berklee College of Music. Credits include touring, film scores, jingles, and Broadway shows. Michael was a member of The Tony Trischka Band for 7 years, producing 2 recordings on Rounder Records and as a leader, released the jazz recording “Big Sunflower” on CDC Records. Also joining the party is Leandro Da Silva, a multi-faceted bassist from São Paulo, Brazil who brings elements of Samba and Funk that can be heard in his diverse playing style.

The CIRCUS MIND single “BABY COME BACK DOWN” will be released online March 18, 2022.


To purchase or stream please visit: https://smarturl.it/BabyComeBackDown

For more information including tour dates or booking inquiries please visit: www.circusmindband.com

For Press and Interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

Leave a comment | posted in Circus Mind, Press Release

2022/03/14

Robert Fripp “Washington Square Church” CD/DVD To Be Released April 29, 2022

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Robert Fripp “Washington Square Church” CD/DVD To Be Released April 29, 2022

Frippertronics from Washington Square Church on CD/DVD (audio only)

A new set of Frippertronics from 1981 will be released in CD/DVD and 2LP format in April 2022. These live Frippertronics performances have been taken from recordings in New York City between July and August 1981 and have been mixed and produced by David Singleton from audio painstakingly restored by Alex R Mundy.

This is the Frippertronics album that should have come out in 1982. The forty years that have passed have done nothing to diminish the power of the music. The material appears on both discs with the DVD offering the audio in hi-res stereo and DTS Surround Sound, the nature of the loops lending themselves ideally to this method of production

TRACKLISTING:
1. WASHINGTON SQUARE I
2. WASHINGTON SQUARE II
3. WASHINGTON SQUARE III
4. WASHINGTON SQUARE IV
5. WASHINGTON SQUARE V
6. WASHINGTON SQUARE VI
7. WASHINGTON SQUARE VII
8. WASHINGTON SQUARE VIII
9. WASHINGTON SQUARE IX
10. WASHINGTON SQUARE X
11. WASHINGTON SQUARE XI

After completing the first round of concerts with a revived King Crimson starting in May 1981, Fripp headed over to the USA where he began a week-long residency at Washington Square United Methodist Church on 135 W Fourth Street in New York. Built in 1860, the church had historically been home to many congregations but in more recent years had become the venue for groups such as the Black Panthers, Gay Men’s Health Crisis and numerous arts organisations.

The series of Frippertronic concerts were held in aid of a Soho-based theatre group and they find the guitarist using his technique of slowly building the music from the ground up, step by step. It’s an approach which demonstrates how the addition or subtraction of a single note can change the entire mood of a piece as we move in the space of a few bars from an atmosphere of pensive anticipation to one of yearning hope.

In an interview with the Melody Maker published just weeks before these concerts, Fripp was asked why he continued to perform Frippertronic concerts. “It gives me a way of working with intimate contact with members of an audience…It’s almost an excuse to put me in a situation where one has the audience, performer and music, and in a certain kind of way something remarkable can happen. And that has happened to me, and it’s not possible in a group…Frippertronics is the most enjoyable means of playing I’ve ever found.”

The Washington Square Church performances represent some of the finest recorded examples of the Frippertronics series. Unlike other such recordings where the loops are on tape in the DGM archive but the solos require painstaking matching of existing audience recordings and bootlegs to those loops to complete the picture, the solos for these shows were actually recorded but not labelled as to which solos matched which loops. The matched pairs only became possible when DGM audio engineer Alex R. Mundy realised that the loops had been picked up, at microscopic audio levels, by the guitar pick-ups playing the solos, allowing for identification. David Singleton was then able to mix and produce the resulting audio.

The music played more than rewards such efforts as, culled from the shows, (more complete versions appear on the “Exposures” boxed set), Fripp appears to explore every sonic avenue available to him as a guitar player – mesmerising loops, overlaid with beautiful solos, fast running ‘Frame by Frame’ style lines against a looped background, powerful “Scary Monsters” type guitar noises and more besides.

The set is regarded as the finest example of Frippertronics in performance.

The DVD features the material in 24/48 hi-res stereo and DTS-HD Surround Sound (Quad 4.1).

The 2LP edition is on 200 gram vinyl and has been cut by Jason Mitchel at LOUD Mastering.

Released on April 29th 2022 you can pre-order CD/DVD from Inner Knot (USA) and Burning Shed (UK / EU)

For more information: https://dgmlive.com/news/new-frippertronics-album-concert-from-1981?fbclid=IwAR1p2QYbdwadCilZZVlXug_7eHxA4LKXC5EIncLhok17XsZrqCLv21F-QJ0

To pre-order: https://shop.schizoidshop.com/robert-fripp—washington-square-church-cddvd-p1920.aspx

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in King Crimson, Press Release, Robert Fripp

2022/03/09

Tony Palmer’s “All You Need Is Love” Documentary Limited Unique Signed Collectors Edition Box Set

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Tony Palmer’s “All You Need Is Love” Documentary Limited Unique Signed Collectors Edition Box Set

“All You Need Is Love” is a landmark production that first aired in the 1970s.

Director Tony Palmer’s 17-part documentary covers the history of modern popular music, from its earliest origins through the mid-70s. Among the included genres are folk, ragtime, musical theatre, swing, jazz, blues and of course rock ‘n’ roll.

Palmer interviewed more than 300 subjects, and he enlisted the help of experts and personalities in the music field, including Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Feather and Nik Cohn, to provide the background for each episode. The documentary’s title is taken from the 1967 Beatles song written by John Lennon, a friend of Tony’s.

The Box Contains:
1) A hand signed by Tony Palmer certificate
2) All 17 one hour episodes on 5 DVDs of the classic TV series
3) 322 page long out-of-print original book with black & white and colour photos
4) 28 page brochure with all the background
5) A complete facsimile of Tony Palmer’s diary for 1975 showing where and when the films were made…
6) A reproduction of the “A monumental achievement. Thank you” telegram sent by JOHN LENNON personally to Tony Palmer

Here’s what the press has said about Tony Palmer’s “All You Need Is Love”:

“It’s subtitled ‘The Story of Popular Music,’ and it really is, in nearly 15 hours, on five discs… How great must this be? See for yourself.” (EW Pick, “A” Rating) – Ken Tucker, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

“Calling this five-disc, 17-episode walk through history of pop music ‘comprehensive’ is like calling the Bible ‘important’… All You Need Is Love is a musical education in a box.” – Ryan Dombal, BLENDER

“There’s no shortage of ambition in this 17-episode series directed in 1977 for  British TV by music journalist and filmmaker Tony Palmer. Subtitled ‘The Story of  Popular Music,’ this is the closest we will ever get to a definitive portrait of such a sprawling topic.” – Sean Axmaker, MSN.com

“This rigorous and compelling documentary series is a one-stop shop for the wisdom and development of pop.” – Andrew Perry, MOJO (UK)

“For an entertaining and informative history of popular music up through the mid-70’s, you could not do any better than this engrossing series.” – Curt Fields, WASHINGTON POST

“The idea of documenting the entire in-depth history of something as mercurial as popular music is the kind of epic task that could make even Ken Burns blanch. And yet that’s exactly what British journalist and filmmaker Tony Palmer did in the mid-’70s, with the impossibly expansive ‘All You Need Is Love: The Story of Popular Music.’” – Bilge Ebiri, TIME OUT NEW YORK

“Tony Palmer’s ‘All You Need Is Love’ was hailed in its day and looks even better now, thanks to Palmer’s blend of stock footage, electrifying performances and thoughtful narration.”  – Noel Murray, LA TIMES

“…an impressive achievement, scholarly, opinionated and entertaining, seamlessly blending archive and fresh footage with an impressive cast of talking heads.” – Peter Kane, Q MAGAZINE (UK)

“…Undeniably the most ambitious attempt to document the changing face of popular music ever to reach the TV screen.” – Terry Staunton, CLASSIC ROCK MAGAZINE

“…An astute, fine-tooth-combing through popular music in all its hues and ages.” – Linda Laban, BOSTON GLOBE

“…Holds your interest throughout – though you’ll certainly need more than one viewing to absorb it all.” (4 stars) – Gillian G. Gaar, GOLDMINE

For more information: https://www.tonypalmerdvd.com/products/a-limited-unique-signed-collectors-edition-all-you-need-is-love-box-set

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Tony Palmer

2022/03/09

Swiss Minimalistic Jazz Ensemble AKKU Quintet Release New “Live” Album

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Swiss Minimalistic Jazz Ensemble AKKU Quintet Release New “Live” Album

“Live” takes you on a 75-minute long musical journey and leads you into the cosmos of Swiss-based AKKU Quintet led by drummer and composer Manuel Pasquinelli (also known for his work with Sonar & David Torn). It contains five songs from different stages of the group’s history, recorded at various locations between 2016 and 2020. You’ll hear the touch and character of each player, acting as a part of the ensemble to create this atmospheric, minimalistic yet livingly driving music.

Says Manuel, “Playing this music live is always an intense and beautiful experience. While not perfect, live versions often have a certain quality and spirit, which are hard to achieve in the studio. We want to share some live moments we captured on different occasions with this album, especially in this challenging time for live music. We didn’t do any editing. So you will hear truly handmade music. This album might be a good introduction to our work, and maybe one gets curious about the four studio albums we released before.”

“They take the Swiss zen maximalist/minimalist approach of Nik Bärtsch’s Ronin, Sonar, Schnellertollermeier to a different, but utterly logical conclusion. Fabulous stuff. Recommended!” – Steve Feigenbaum, Cuneiform Records

AKKU Quintet is based in Berne (Switzerland), from where they dispense a minimalistic jazz groove to great effect. Drummer Manuel Pasquinelli, who is also responsible for the compositions, founded the band in 2010. Their first concert took place in 2011. Since then, the band has released four studio albums and is playing live regularly. Their latest studio album, “Depart,” was the first one released with 7d Media. Manuel Pasquinelli is also known as the drummer of Sonar, who are collaborating with David Torn and Bill Laswell.

Track List:

01 Waves
Recorded live on October 15, 2017 at bee-flat im Progr, Bern
Album version on “Aeon”

02 Polar
Recorded live on May 8, 2019 at bee-flat im Progr, Bern
Album version on “Aeon”

03 Deep Sleep I
Recorded live on February 18, 2020 at City Pub, Bern
Album version on “Stages of Sleep”

04 Schneemann
05 Deep Sleep II
Recorded on April 10, 2016 at Cully Jazz Festival, Cully
Album versions on “Molecules” and “Stages of Sleep”

AKKU Quintet:
Manuel Pasquinelli – Drums
Michael Gilsenan – Sax & Fx
Maja Nydegger – Grand Piano, Keys
Markus Ischer – Guitar
Andi Schnellmann – Bass

Music written by Manuel Pasquinelli
No edits loops or overdubs on this record

Here’s what the press has said about AKKU Quintet:

“The group connect and lock together yet remain constantly in motion, maintaining a balletic poise and grace that skillfully builds and adds line upon line of long, sonorous notes. Though each one on its own might be gossamer-thin, when combined, they create something strong and enduring, something substantial and memorable” – Sid Smith

“There is a spaciousness in these zeros and ones that AKKU Quintet allows to speak for itself. There is no unnecessary noodling to fill the gaps, every note has its place.” – Roger Trenwith, The Progressive Aspect

“I had the great, great pleasure to see them on their final US show in 2018 and they take the ‘Swiss zen maximalist/minimalist approach’ of Ronin, Sonar, Schnellertollermeier to a different, but utterly logical conclusion. Fabulous stuff. Recommended!” – Steve Feigenbaum, Cuneiform Records

“Taking a type of minimalist and mathrock, slowing it down with postrock atmosphere, bringing a tight clean jazz element to it, and creating a set of dreamscape styled equal balance between classical and progressive rock and you have the formula for Switzerland’s unique Akku Quintet.” – Lee Henderson, Big Beautiful Noise

“Very beautiful, spacious, minimalist groove.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“Groove becomes a compositional element, beauty an act of concentration, improvisation never a sure-fire success, but a dramaturgical stylistic device.” – Ane Hebeisen

To purchase:
US: https://akkuquintet7d.bandcamp.com/album/live
Europe: www.akkuquintet.bandcamp.com/

For more information:
www.akkuquintet.com
www.facebook.com/akkuquintet
www.instagram.com/manuelpasquinelli_akkuquintet/

www.7dmedia.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in Akku Quintet, Press Release