Category Archives: Press Release

2018/06/12

New Biography on The Cars Singer/Bassist Benjamin Orr by Vermont Writer Joe Milliken to be Published November 2018!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

New Biography on The Cars Singer/Bassist Benjamin Orr by Vermont Writer Joe Milliken to be Published November 2018! 

Bellows Falls, VT – Veteran music journalist Joe Milliken recently announced a publishing deal with the Lanham, Maryland-based publisher Rowman & Littlefield Publishers to produce his first book, a biography about the late Benjamin Orr. Orr was the co-founder, co-lead singer, and bassist for the platinum-selling rock band The Cars. Titled Let’s Go! Benjamin Orr and The Cars, a release date is set for November 15, 2018.

Often considered the band’s heartthrob, Orr possessed an incredible voice, diverse musical talent and rare stage presence, all balanced by a magnetic, yet enigmatic personality, striking good looks, and a relentless determination to reach rock stardom. Born Benjamin Orzechowski (aka “Benny Eleven Letters”) and raised in the Cleveland suburb of Parma Heights, Orr was, prior to becoming a world-famous rock star with The Cars, a “teen star” as a house band musician for the nationally syndicated television show Upbeat.

A few years later Ben met his musical partner and future Cars’ bandleader, Ric Ocasek, and by 1976 their quest for the perfect blend of songs, bandmates, and musical landscape finally materialized as The Cars. They would go on to sell over 30 million albums worldwide resulting in 15 “Top 40” hits.

From his early success in Cleveland through his stardom with The Cars, to his solo band efforts and eventual rebirth with the emerging supergroup Big People, this definitive account of Orr’s rock-and-roll life is not a backstage ‘tell all,’ but the story of a charismatic musician with a vision, a sense of adventure, and unwavering perseverance. Orr passed away much too young at 53, but he achieved his dream through hard work and determination, a long road that began in Cleveland and culminated with The Cars coming back to his hometown to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in April of 2018.

This first-ever biography about Orr spans 11 years in the making, as Milliken draws together interviews with over 120 family members, friends, bandmates, and music associates from Orr’s life, as well as many unpublished and never before seen photos from private collections, to reveal an intimate portrait of one of classic rock’s great talents.

About the Author: Joe Milliken has been a music journalist, editor and website publisher for two decades. A die-hard music fan with a degree in visual arts, Joe turned to writing as his creative outlet, first as a local reporter, then a sports/arts & entertainment editor and freelancer. In 2014, he launched Standing Room Only, a website dedicated to promoting music and the arts on a local (New England) and national level. Originally from Boston, Milliken now resides in southern Vermont with his wife, Kelly, and his children, Nate and Erin.

Learn more about upcoming book-related announcements, events, discounts, and author interviews at www.facebook.com/BenOrrBook, by email at benorrbook@gmail.com or follow @benorrbook on Twitter. 

Joe Milliken: Author, Website Publisher
Donna Neale: Public Relations Assistant: benorrbook@gmail.com

Let’s Go is available for presale: 
Rowman & Littlefield’s website: https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538118658
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Go-Benjamin-Orr-Cars/dp/1538118653/ref=sr_1_1

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

Leave a comment | posted in Benjamin Orr, Joe Milliken, Press Release

2018/06/08

Italian Instrumental Ensemble Armonite Releases Second Album “And the Stars Above”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Italian Instrumental Ensemble Armonite Releases Second Album And the Stars Above!

Includes guest appearance by Colin Edwin of iconic UK prog-rockers Porcupine Tree

Italy – Armonite, the instrumental rock collective led by composer Paolo Fosso and violinist Jacopo Bigi, have released their second album And the Stars Above on LA-based indie label Cleopatra Records.

Armonite’s instrumental music is perfectly in line with the spirit of the label, especially now that Cleopatra expanded in the movie industry.

With the film division Cleopatra Entertainment, the company has distributed, developed, and produced several films most of which have a strong horror and/or music component, including The Devil’s Domain (starring Michael Madsen), The Black Room (starring Lin Shaye), Halloween Pussy Trap Kill! Kill! (featuring the voice of Dave Mustaine from Megadeth), The 27 Club (featuring Todd Rundgren), England Is Mine (Steven Morrissey bio-pic), A Street Cat Named Bob.

“Working with Cleopatra has been great,” says Fosso, “They’re skilled and competent, I’m sure they will take Armonite to the next level. I’ve always been a great lover of movies and videogames, I was just moving forward to the composition of soundtrack music, so this collaboration comes right on cue.”

As with the previous album, And the Stars Above is an instrumental mix of electric violin, keyboards, bass, and drums with focus on the amazing and powerful electric violin, performed by Jacopo Bigi. Interpreting the music composed by keyboardist Paolo Fosso, Armonite also performs with bassists Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree) and Alberto Fiorani, along with drummers Corrado Bertonazzi, Emiliano Cava, and Jasper Barendregt.

The sound of the album is more oriented to soundtrack music with textures that feel very immediate. “We consume tons of music every day, we can’t just stick to one genre”, says Fosso, “generally speaking, the album is rock, but with this idea of soundtrack music.”

Throughout the album, lingers a ghostly female voice, appearing and disappearing here and there before fully emerging in the band’s first song with lyrics, “Clouds Collide”. The track tells the story of a girl between time and memories.

And the Stars Above is a journey through 12 tracks, starting with “The March of the Stars” inspired by Dante’s Paradise and ending with “Ghosts”. The album also features two bonus tracks: a polyrhythmic piece for piano solo, “The Fire Dancer”, and the String Quartet “A Playful Day”.

“We’re confident this is going to be a great release, with a rather peculiar view,” says Fosso, “The Sun is New Each Day had a heavy compact sound… And the Stars Above is groovy, with different vibes across a bunch of genres. There’s something indie in this new sound that we’ve never explored before and it’s kind of sexy for us!”

You can find more information about Armonite and their new album at the band’s official website, www.armonite.com

And the Stars Above Tracklist
01. The March of the Stars
02. Next Ride
03. District Red
04. Plaza de España
05. Clouds collide
06. Blue Curaçao
07. By heart
08. Freaks
09. By the Waters of Babylon
10. The usual drink
11. What’s the Rush?
12. Ghosts
13. [Bonus Track] A Playful Day (for Strings Quartet)
14. [Bonus Track] The Fire dancer (for Piano solo)

Original music composed and arranged by Paolo Fosso

Performed by Armonite
Jacopo Bigi – acoustic and electric violin
Paolo Fosso – piano and keyboards
with
Colin Edwin (The March of the Stars, District Red, Freaks, By the Waters of Babylon, What’s the Rush?, Ghosts); Alberto Fiorani (Next Ride, Blue Curaçao, By heart) – bass
Giacomo Lampugnani (Plaza de España, Freaks); Gianmarco Straniero (By the Waters of Babylon) – double bass
Corrado Bertonazzi (The March of the Stars, District Red, Blue Curaçao, Freaks, What’s the Rush?, Ghosts); Emiliano Cava (Next Ride, Plaza de España, By heart); Jasper Barendregt (By the Waters of Babylon) – drums
Maria Chiara Montagnari (The March of the Stars, Clouds collide, By the Waters of Babylon) – voice
Diletta Fosso (Ghosts) – child’s voice
Marcello Rosa (District Red); Gabriele Montanari (The March of the Stars, A Playful Day) – cello
Quartetto Indaco: Eleonora Matsuno, violin; Jamiang Santi, violin; Francesca Turcato, viola; Cosimo Carovani, cello (District Red) – string quartet
Jacopo Bigi also plays viola (District Red, Ghosts) and ukulele (By the Waters of Babylon). He whistles on “Freaks” and plays both violins and viola on “A Playful Day”.

To purchase:
CD: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/armonite-and-the-stars-above-cd/
Digital: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/and-the-stars-above/1380495940

For more information:
Website: http://www.armonite.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armonitemusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/armonitemusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armonitemusic
Bandcamp: https://armonite.bandcamp.com
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/armonite
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Armonite

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Armonite, Press Release

2018/06/04

Gin Blossoms to Release Eagerly Awaited New Album “Mixed Reality” and Embark on Major US Tour

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Gin Blossoms to Release Eagerly Awaited New Album “Mixed Reality” and Embark on Major US Tour

Los Angeles – Cleopatra Records will be releasing the brand new album from one of the most successful melodic alt-rock bands still making music today, Gin Blossoms! “Mixed Reality” will be released on June 15, 2018. The Blossoms recently celebrated the 25 year anniversary of their seminal, multi-platinum album “New Miserable Experience,” which spawned the blockbuster singles “Hey Jealousy” and “Found Out About You!”

Gin Blossoms’ blockbuster 1992 album “New Miserable Experience” spawned four Top 40 hit singles, and established the Arizona quintet as one of the top rock groups of that decade. More than 25 years have passed since the release of “New Miserable Experience,” and now Gin Blossoms are back with their best set of songs in years. Produced by Don Dixon and engineered by Mitch Easter, “Mixed Reality” demonstrates that the timeless appeal of Gin Blossoms’ music has endured.

Says lead singer Robin Wilson, “I knew we were recording with Don and Mitch, and I managed to hack into a young version of myself to craft songs. All of us turned in our best work in 25 years. Regardless of commercial outcome, I know ‘Mixed Reality’ is special, and that we’ve lived up to our legacy.”

Gin Blossoms formed in 1987 in the Arizona city of Tempe; guitarists Jesse Valenzuela and bassist Bill Leen were founding members. After some lineup changes, the group coalesced around Valenzuela, Leen, Robin Wilson (vocals and guitar), drummer Phillip Rhoades, and guitarist Doug Hopkins. One quality that set Gin Blossoms apart from other groups was its deep bench: four of its five members wrote songs.

In 2017 Gin Blossoms began work on their first new album in almost eight years. Longtime producer and friend of the band John Hampton had passed away in 2014, so at first the group considered self-producing. But at one of their shows, they met Don Dixon, producer of the Smithereens’ first two albums and a legend in power pop circles.

The group booked time in Mitch Easter’s Fidelitorium Studio in Kernersville, N.C., working with Dixon as well as Easter, veteran of R.E.M. sessions. Now Gin Blossoms had a producer and engineer who helped define ’80s jangling power pop, a style that exerted a major influence on the band’s own musical approach. “We needed to be shaken and taken out of our element,” Wilson explains. “Working with Don and Mitch gave us the inspiration to reconnect with the very foundations of the band: where we came from as songwriters and band mates.”

“Mixed Reality” shares the same timeless feel as “New Miserable Experience”; it’s packed with 15 songs, with Wilson, Leen, Johnson and Valenzuela all contributing material. And once again, the mix of songwriters results in something that has that unmistakable Gin Blossoms sound. “As much as we are children of our influences,” explains Wilson, “we managed to do something that was both familiar and original.”

“We’re at the point now where we play better, we communicate better, we get along more,” says Wilson. “We’re more grateful. It’s a very full-circle thing for us to be releasing ‘Mixed Reality.’” Built around the proven strategy of using the band’s deep songwriting bench, and packed with memorable songs that connect with listeners while transcending a specific time period, “Mixed Reality” may turn out to be as timeless as Gin Blossoms’ major label debut.

Track List:
1. Break
2. Face The Dark
3. New Mexico Trouble
4. Angels Fly
5. Here Again
6. Still Some Room In Heaven
7. Miranda Chicago
8. Girl On The Side
9. Fortunate Street
10. Wonder
11. Shadow
12. Forever Is This Night
13. The JFK Shit Show
14. The Devil’s Daughter
15. Mega Pawn King

Catch the Blossoms on tour this year with special engagements alongside Vertical Horizon & Tonic!

Tue 05 29 18 – Grand Rapids, MI – 20 Monroe Live
Thu 05 31 18 – South Bend, IN – Four Winds Field
Fri 06 01 18 – Eldon, MO – Shawnee Bluff Vineyard
Sat 06 02 18 – Alabaster, AL – Alabaster City Fest
Sun 06 03 18 – Greensboro, NC – White Oak Amphitheater
Wed 06 06 18 – Columbus, OH – Express Live! Outdoor Amphitheater
Thu 06 07 18 – Montclair, NJ – Wellmont Theater
Fri 06 08 18 – Big Flats, NY – Tag’s Summer Sound Stage
Sat 06 09 18 – Fairfax, VA – Celebrate Fairfax Fair
Sun 06 10 18 – Huntington, NY – The Paramount
Wed 06 13 18 – Huber Heights, OH – Rose Music Center at The Heigh
Thu 06 14 18 – Northfield, OH – Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield
Fri 06 15 18 – Indianapolis, IN – The Pavillion
Sat 06 16 18 – Springfield, IL – Bank of Springfield Plaza
Sun 06 17 18 – West Saint Louis Park, MN – Common Sound Festival
Sat 07 07 18 – Milwaukee, WI – Summerfest
Sun 07 08 18 – Rochester, MN – Down by the Riverside Concert
Tue 07 10 18 – Des Moines, IA – Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater
Thu 07 12 18 – Appleton, WI – Neuroscience Group Field
Fri 07 13 18 – Toledo, OH – Promenade Park
Sat 07 14 18 – Fort Wayne, IN – Headwaters Park
Wed 07 18 18 – Cohasset, MA – South Shore Music Circus
Thu 07 19 18 – Stamford, CT – Alive @ Five Outdoor Summer Co
Fri 07 20 18 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE – Outdoors
Sat 07 21 18 – Atlantic City, NJ – The Theater, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Sun 07 22 18 – Lakeville, PA – Cove Haven Resort
Tue 07 24 18 – Hampton Beach, NH – Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
Wed 07 25 18 – Hyannis, MA – Cape Cod Melody Tent
Fri 07 27 18 – Chautauqua, NY – Chautauqua Institution Amphith
Sat 07 28 18 – Island Lake, IL – Sideouts
Thu 08 02 18 – Selbyville, DE – The Freeman Stage at Bayside
Sat 08 04 18 – Mount Tabor, NJ – At The Tabernacle
Fri 08 10 18 – Chamblee, GA – Chamblee City Park
Sat 08 11 18 – Suwanee, GA – Suwanee Town Center Park

To purchase Gin Blossoms “Mixed Reality”:
CD: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/gin-blossoms-mixed-reality-cd/
Digital: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/mixed-reality/1383520725?app=itunes&at=1000lt9k

Official website: www.ginblossoms.net

Management: Chad Jensen, cjallclear@earthlink.net

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


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

Leave a comment | posted in Gin Blossoms, Press Release

2018/05/30

Bassist John Ferrara of Prog Ensemble Consider The Source Announces June 13th Album Release, Summer Tour of New Duo Project

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Bassist John Ferrara of Prog Ensemble Consider The Source Announces June 13th Album Release, Summer Tour of New Duo Project

John Ferrara, bassist for globetrotting psych-fusion stalwarts Consider the Source, brings his powerful solo compositions to life with the aid of virtuoso percussionist Seth Moutal in their debut album “Frail Things in Sharp Places” to be released on June 13, 2018.

“We wanted our debut to be an honest representation of ourselves,” John says. “While there’s a lot of shredding, Indian rhythms, looping and tapping, each song has immense emotional significance. We took our time to make sure nothing was gratuitous. This album is who we are. I play a 5-string bass and loop chords and melodies while playing basslines on my homemade Taurus pedals. Seth plays drum set, tablas, and a variety of hand percussion instruments. We play everything you hear on the album, and we try not to record it if we can’t do it live.” Moutal’s plethora of percussive timbres blends with Ferrara’s trademark cascading loops and growling hand-built synths to create an immersive tapestry of sound and groove.

In support of their debut album, The John Ferrara & Seth Moutal Duo will bring their visionary blend of progressive rock, jazz, minimalism and world music to select shows in the northeast. Take a listen to some tracks from “Frail Thing in Sharp Places” for a taste of the album’s vibrant world of hypnotic percussion and soaring melody.

Videos:
“Jackie Chan” by John Ferrara and Seth Moutal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF6zKbX0HoM
“Song for Ramida” by John Ferrara: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATRV3fMNmdM
“30 Tyrants” by John Ferrara and Seth Moutal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iW2ZQ_i3PAs

Summer Tour Dates:
6/14-6/16 – Hammonton, NJ Beardfest
6/22 – Downsville, NY JetLАG Festival 6/30 – Boston, MA – Cafe Luna
7/1 – NYC, NY – Rockwood Music Hall
7/6 – Charlotte, NC – Rock University (Master Class)
7/6 – Charlotte, NC – The Rabbit Hole
7/7 – Raleigh, NC – The Pour House Music Hall
7/8 – Florence, SC – Private event
7/12 – Baltimore, MD – 8X10
7/14 – Reading, PA – Private Event

To pre-order John Ferrara and Seth Moutal’s “Frail Things in Sharp Places”: https://johnferraramusic.bandcamp.com

Visit John at his website and on social media:
http://www.johnferraramusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/johnferraramusic/
https://www.instagram.com/john.ferrara.bass/

John Ferrara’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm8sfBbAbY8l23dkctbmLFg?view_as=subscriber

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

1 Comment | posted in Consider The Source, John Ferrara, Press Release, Seth Moutal

2018/05/28

German Music Legends Guru Guru Celebrate 50 Years With New CD “Rotate!”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

German Music Legends Guru Guru Celebrate 50 Years With New CD “Rotate!”

50 years of Guru Guru – that’s 50 years of Krautrock!

Dudenhofen, Germany – If you hadn’t believed possible that Mani Neumeier and his Guru Guru still rank among Germany’s most active and prolific rock bands, well, then you’d be proven wrong!

Founded in 1968, the year of the student’s revolt in Germany, Guru Guru has reached their 50th anniversary and still maintains their innovative spirit. Where many a musician made it big as a one-hit-wonder just to fade into oblivion soon after, Guru Guru carved their way outside the mainstream and short lived trends by blending experimental rock, avant-garde, jazz and world music into an unique, original form of rock ‘n’ roll.

No one will deny that there were ups and downs, but nowadays, Mani (Drums/Percussion/Vocals) shares the stage with two long-standing companions. Roland Schaeffler (Guitar/Saxophone/Vocals) and Peter Kuhmstedt (Bass/Vocals) have been with Guru Guru for more than 40 years. The passing of Hans Reffert, aged 69 (Feb. 21, 2016), was a severe blow, but with newly recruited guitar player Jan Lindqvist they overcame this tragedy and proved that they are not in the least tired of creating music. Those four “Krautrockers” are living legends and next to the Rolling Stones among the longest-serving rock bands on this planet. Mani and Mick are in fact standing next to each other in the Tokyo House of Wax! Mani Neumeier and his Gurus are the epitome of a band that defies musical trends and fads and transcends limitations and genres even on their newest CD called “Rotate!”

After more than 40 releases (LP, CD & DVD), Guru Guru demonstrates that the “overhauled Flagship of German rock” – as they have been called by the German magazine Musikexpress – have not lost their ability to entrance and provide an extraordinary spectacle. Songs like “Ooga Booga Special” span the decades, from the early days of “Magic Tree” to their latest studio album “Rotate!” which has been released to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary in 2018. Never to be missed of course is the immortal “Elektroluch”: The underground hit that has written “Krautrock” history and is, to this day, an intregal part in the band’s live performance.

Whoever thought that Guru Guru would slow down or that Mani would retire to a quiet life in the countryside couldn’t be more wrong. After 50 years they continue to go their own way because they’ve always been – and still are unique!

To purchase Guru Guru’s “Rotate!”:
https://open.spotify.com/album/7gh80xxfsl5jwNtUZJrzRQ
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rotate/1376597257
https://www.amazon.de/Rotate-Guru/dp/B07BF3V4PN

For more information: http://mani-neumeier.de/guruguru/

TRANCE-Music: PH: 06232 / 94076 (Germany), trance-music@t-online.de

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

Leave a comment | posted in Guru Guru, Mani Neumeier, Press Release

2018/05/25

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman Launches Official YouTube Channel

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman Launches Official YouTube Channel

Legendary keyboardist Rick Wakeman is launching his official YouTube channel in June 2018! The channel will feature many rare and unreleased videos, as well as the exclusive premiere of Rick’s forthcoming film “Live Portraits.”

Watch the promotional trailer: https://rick-wakeman.lnk.to/watch_trailer

“Would you believe I now have an official YouTube channel. If you fancy subscribing to it you’re going to see lots of different things. Some things perhaps you’ve seen before…certainly a lot you’ve never seen before. There will be some exclusive stuff – exclusive purely to this channel. So please subscribe and see some of the silly things I get up to, and the musical stuff as well.” – Rick Wakeman

Check out Rick Wakeman’s new YouTube channel: https://rick-wakeman.lnk.to/youtube
To subscribe to Rick Wakeman’s new YouTube channel: https://rick-wakeman.lnk.to/subscribe

To celebrate the launch of Rick’s official YouTube channel in style, subscribers are asked to vote for the top track they want to see from the film “Live Portraits” (track listing below). Voting can be made here on PledgeMusic https://artists.pledgemusic.com/projects/rick-wakeman-live-portraits/updates/97478

Once the votes have been counted, the ten most voted tracks will be posted exclusively on Rick’s YouTube Channel for 48 hours. Fans should subscribe to Rick’s official YouTube Channel to be notified when this event will take place. Click here to Subscribe https://rick-wakeman.lnk.to/subscribe

1. MORNING HAS BROKEN
2. AND YOU AND I
3. SUMMERTIME
4. SWAN LAKE
5. SPACE ODDITY
6. AFTER THE BALL
7. SWEET GEORGIA BROWN
8. HELP
9. AMAZING GRACE
10. WONDROUS STORIES
11. MERLIN THE MAGICIAN
12. LIFE ON MARS
13. ELEANOR RIGBY
14. CLAIR DE LUNE

In other news:

Following the hugely successful “Piano Portraits” tour last year, in support of the album of the same name, Rick Wakeman will return in Autumn 2018 with a new show based on the follow up release, entitled “Piano Odyssey.” The fourteen-date tour will feature even more classic tracks given Rick’s unique piano treatment, and will travel to towns and cities not previously visited in 2017.

A live version of Rick’s critically acclaimed album “Piano Portraits” was filmed & recorded at the Lincoln Cathedral in London on March 7th, 2018. “Live Portraits” will be released on CD/DVD soon. It can be ordered exclusively from Pledge Music by using the following link: https://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/rick-wakeman-live-portraits

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

Gonzo Multimedia: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/

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

4 Comments | posted in Press Release, Rick Wakeman

2018/05/23

Legendary French Violinist Jean Luc Ponty To Tour The US Summer 2018!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Legendary French Violinist Jean Luc Ponty To Tour The US Summer 2018!

Los Angeles – Legendary French violinist Jean Luc Ponty and his band will be continuing their “Atlantic Years” tour in the US beginning August 2018! Jean Luc Ponty is a pioneer and undisputed master of the violin in the arena of jazz and rock. He is widely regarded as an innovator who has applied his unique visionary spin that has expanded the vocabulary of modern music.

Says Jean Luc, “We’re calling it ‘The Atlantic Years’ tour since I am touring with my band from the late 70’s – 80’s with whom I recorded several albums for Atlantic Records, and we perform some classics from these early albums exclusively.”

The Jean Luc Ponty Band features:

Jean Luc Ponty – violin
Jamie Glaser – guitars
Keith Jones – bass
Rayford Griffin – drums
Wally Minko – keyboards

Jean Luc Ponty Band 2018 US tour dates:

8/13 – Chicago / The City Winery
8/14 – Chicago  / The City Winery
8/15 – Detroit / Chene Park
8/17 – Pittsburgh / Allegheny County South Park Bandshell
8/18 – Philadelphia / Keswick Theatre, Glenside PA
8/19 – Alexandria VA / The Birchmere Music Hall
8/21 – Annapolis MD / Rams Head
8/22 – Annapolis MD / Rams Head
8/23 – Newton NJ / Newton Theatre – Skylands PAC
8/24 – Beverly MA / Cabot Theatre
8/26 – Westbury, Long Island NY / The Space
8/28 – Albany, NY / The Egg
8/29 – Fairfield CT / The Warehouse
8/30 – New York City / Sony Hall Theatre

After studying classical violin at the Paris Conservatory, Jean Luc Ponty turned to jazz in the 60’s. Thanks to his revolutionary style he collaborated with some of the best European and American musicians such as Eddy Louiss, Daniel Humair, Niels Henning-Ørsted Pedersen, John Lewis, Lalo Schifrin, and Quincy Jones. He became the first bebop violinist and US jazz magazine “Down Beat” created a violin category for him in its critics’ poll, until then violin was in the ‘miscellaneous instruments’ category. His pioneering work on the electric violin in the 70’s attracted the attention of pop and rock musicians, he recorded with Elton John and participated to several tours and legendary recordings with Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention and John McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra. In 1975 he founded his own band and became one of the most prominent figures of the jazz-fusion movement in the USA, selling millions of albums that all reached the top of the US charts. Ponty’s most recent album “The Atacama Experience” is considered as one if his best and to this day Ponty keeps touring with his band around the world.

Ponty also collaborates on occasional projects such as “The Rite of Strings” with Stanley Clarke and Al Di Meola. In 2011 Ponty joined the mythical American group RETURN TO FOREVER IV with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Lenny White and Frank Gambale for a world tour spanning on 5 continents.

Ponty received the 2007 Jazz Trophy in Germany, the medal of Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur in France in 2009, the 2011 Lifetime Achievement Awards in Ireland, and the Grand Prix of the Sochi Arts Festival in 2012 in Russia from the hands of world famous classical violist and orchestra conductor Yuri Bashmet. In 2012 Ponty performed his music with Orchestre Pasdeloup for his 50-year career celebration at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, then again with symphony orchestras in Brazil, Russia and Hungary in 2012 and 2013.

In April 2013 Herbie Hancock invited him to perform in Istanbul at “International Jazz Day” for UNESCO. Ponty also founded a new quartet with his daughter, pianist-singer-composer Clara Ponty which performed in France and Germany in 2014. Ponty also performed with the 89 musicians of the Novosibirsk Philharmonic Orcherstra for the Siberian Christmas Festival.

In 2014 Ponty recorded an album as an acoustic trio with Stanley Clarke on double bass and Gypsy-French guitarist Bireli Lagrene, which was released on Impulse/Universal in the Fall 2015.

Jean Luc recently formed the Anderson Ponty Band with Jon Anderson, co-founder and lead singer of British progressive rock band YES, a CD and DVD was released in 2015 followed by a North American concert tour.

The Band:

Jamie Glaser (guitar) is best known as the guitarist for grammy award winning musical acts, Jean Luc Ponty, Chick Corea, Bryan Adams, Gloria Trevi, Manhattan Transfer and more. His guitar can be heard on over 170 albums as well as on the biggest sitcoms of all time, Seinfeld and Married With Children. Jamie compositions can be heard weekly on CBS sports, ABC, Animal Planet, History channel, Discovery, and ESPN. His solo albums have been successful worldwide.

Keith Jones (bassist) has worked with many well known music artists such as Joe Sample, The Crusaders, Al Jarreau, Jean Luc Ponty, Carlos Santana, Andy Narell, Wayne Shorter, Kenny Loggins, Mark Isham and many more. His distinctive bass lines can be heard on hundreds of recordings.

Rayford Griffin (drums) has been internationally respected as among the most inventive, volcanic and versatile drummers in music, having amassed stellar credits with virtuosos ranging from Jean Luc Ponty and The Stanley Clarke Band, George Duke, to Dave Koz, Anita Baker and Michael Jackson.

Wally Minko (keyboards) is a well respected and highly accomplished member of the LA music scene and has toured and recorded with some of the most well known and successful artists in the world! Some of the artists Wally has worked with include Toni Braxton, Pink, En Vogue, New Edition, Barry Manilow, Tom Jones, Arturo Sandoval, Gregg Rolie (Santana/Journey), Eddie Money and the Anderson Ponty Band, featuring legendary Yes vocalist, Jon Anderson and world renowned jazz violinist, Jean Luc Ponty.

For more information:
www.ponty.com
www.facebook.com/jeanlucpontyband

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

Leave a comment | posted in Jean-Luc Ponty, Press Release

2018/05/21

Sixties Psychedelic-Rock Legends The Chocolate Watchband Release Two New “Far Out” Singles

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Sixties Psychedelic-Rock Legends The Chocolate Watchband Release Two New “Far Out” Singles

San Jose, CA – When discussing legendary psychedelic garage bands of the 1960s, the Chocolate Watchband is at the top of the list. The Chocolate Watchband formed in San Jose in 1965. The band’s music was described as “a blend of 1960s-style garage and psychedelic rock with a distinguishable ‘Rolling Stones’  San Francisco sound. Produced by Ed Cobb, the group’s early music combined the influences of blues with a psychedelic edge that featured terse lyrics and  instrumental experimentation. The Chocolate Watchband appeared in the 1967 film “Riot On Sunset Strip” and the 1968 film “The Love Ins.” The band released three highly acclaimed LPs from 1967 to 1969 before disbanding in 1970. In 1999, they reunited at the San Diego event 66/99 in San Diego, CA,  organized by musician/journalist Mike Stax. They continue to play today at garage rock festivals in Europe as well as the States with Little Steven, The Yardbirds, Love, The Zombies, Bo Diddly, Iggy Pop, the Strawberry Alarm Clock and the Electric Prunes.

Now much to the excitement of the band’s fans around the globe, the Chocolate Watchband are releasing two new singles destined to be classics! – “Judgment Day” and  “Secret Rendezvous”! The tracks were recorded in 2017 at Kingdom Voice Productions, Santa Clara, CA.

Says lead vocalist and founding member David Aguilar, “I wrote ‘Judgment Day’ as the country was still in recovery after every dollar you might have had invested suddenly tanked thanks to Wall Street. People were getting laid off, they were moving backwards in income, homes were being foreclosed on. Families were living in their cars. It was a terrible time for the American dream. But this was pure opportunity for those who enjoyed stratospheric wealth. Wall Street gangsters, bailed out by American taxpayers, were rewarded for their massive greed and stupidity. They immediately started buying up everything they could, hotels, new corporate jets, restaurants chains, radio stations, small businesses, big businesses, casinos, 300+ acre ranches with 16,000 square foot homes in compounds near Aspen, on Long Island, or in Florida. Their trophy wives were pampered like pet poodles….

“It resulted in the anger that put the current president into the White House. And it’s ironic, Judgment Day didn’t come for the political party that remains the mouthpiece for the fat cats. And now the White House is filled with more Wall Streeters! The Who were wrong, Americans can get fooled again!

“’Secret Rendezvous’ changed names a few times, lyrics were quick and fast, the whole song came from the opening riff…I recorded it in about 40 minutes. I like songs like this-they write themselves as you track it. I recorded drums and guitar together, added bass, horns, cowbell, (yeah say it-“more cowbell”) and vocals. When the band got a hold of it, they ripped it! I can’t wait to sing this song on stage!”

Watch the band’s new live video “I’m Not Like Everybody Else” (the Acid Test 5/7/16): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8OJ9SAr77s&feature=youtu.be

The Chocolate Watchband:
David Aguilar – Lead Vocals, harmonica, percussion, keyboards, acoustic and electric guitars
Gary Andrijasivich- Drums, backing vocals, percussion
Tim Abbott- Lead guitar, sitar, backing vocals
Derek See- Guitars, backing vocals
Alec Palao- Bass

Tim Abbott- Engineer/ co-producer,
Ross Peterson- Mix Engineer/ co-producer
Joey White- Mastering Engineer.

To purchase “Judgement Day” single: 
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/judgement-day-single/1384988843
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D3GJN8Y

To purchase “Secret Rendezvous” single: 
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/secret-rendezvous-single/1385018605
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D3GDT1F

Spotify:
“Judgement Day”: https://open.spotify.com/album/5eMrgSJN4Eapy8DZsmbd40
“Secret Rendezvous”: https://open.spotify.com/album/3v7ZALFFucwVrzEp6g3UOC

For more information:
The Chocolate Watchband official band website: http://www.thechocolatewatchband.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chocolatewatchband/

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

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, The Chocolate Watchband

2018/05/18

A Deep Journey Into the Music and Poetry of Greg Lake – Annie Barbazza & Max Repetti’s MOONCHILD

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

A Deep Journey Into the Music and Poetry of Greg Lake – Annie Barbazza & Max Repetti’s MOONCHILD

Produced by Greg Lake! Limited edition 1000 papersleeve CD and 500 gatefold coloured audiophile vinyl!

Italy – Much to the excitement of Greg Lake & ELP fans worldwide, Annie Barbazza & Max Repetti are releasing MOONCHILD – A deep journey into the music and poetry of Greg Lake! To be issued as Limited edition 1000 papersleeve CD (MAN002) and 500 gatefold coloured audiophile vinyl (MANLP002) on Manticore Records on May 18, 2018, this album marks Greg Lake’s final production before his passing on December 7, 2016.

“Amongst the many projects Greg Lake and I planned for Manticore was the re-arranging of his favourite songs in a black and white, contemporary way. A sort of back to the bone, vocals and guitar setting, as simple as that. I remember Greg became an advocate of the new ‘less is more’ concept and he often reminded us that ‘simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.’

“As we went further into the project, we soon discovered that an acoustic guitar could be fine for some tunes, but not suitable for others; so Greg decided we should go for piano and vocals and asked me to look for a talented piano player. I knew Max Repetti who I considered to be the perfect pianist for Greg. Apart from the fact that he had the entire ELP songbook in his repertoire, he is a very able musician. The audition lasted just a few minutes in a countryside restaurant on an upright piano which had seen better days, slightly out of tune, where Repetti dared to propose a medley of ‘The Stones Of Years,’ from ‘Tarkus,’ and ‘Take a Pebble.’ Greg was so delighted that he immediately asked Max to arrange for him a list of tunes he intended to put on the album that we called ‘Moonchild,’ after one of our favourite early songs.

“Sadly, in early 2014 Greg called me with the very worst news. Shortly after that, he decided to ask his young friend and talented singer and musician Annie Barbazza to take his place and carry on his legacy with this album. He patiently trained Annie using all the available technology to keep him up to date with our progress, while continuing to work with Max Repetti and me on the arrangements and production. We all spoke on Skype several times a week to ensure this project matched his standard of perfectionism and musical integrity.

“When Greg was awarded with an honorary degree for lyrics and music composition by Conservatorio Nicolini in January 2016, he was already too ill to attend the ceremony in person. I decided to surprise him by having Annie and Max perform his music on his behalf in front of the dignitaries. Greg was attending via Skype and you may listen to his encouraging comments on Greg Lake’s Official Channel on Youtube. He was so happy with the results that he pushed even harder for Annie to improve her skills as a singer. Annie Barbazza and Max Repetti performed Moonchild again at a sold out concert for Greg’s last birthday on November 10, 2016. As Greg wanted, we will keep the flame alive by playing his music. So this is for you, Grande Gregorio wherever you are. May your music resound forever in our hearts.” – Max Marchini


Greg Lake, Annie Barbazza

“Annie and Max recorded such a wonderful and touching tribute to the music I have made during my lifetime. Max’s arrangements are absolutely superb! What a magical touch he has and Annie’s vocals are at the same time beautiful, brave and heartfelt. It is a very moving experience for me to hear them perform these songs so passionately.” – Greg Lake, 2016

Tracks
01. In The Court of the Crimson King – 21st Century
Schizoid Man
02. Trilogy – The Endless Enigma part II
03. Moonchild
04. The Stones Of Years – Take A Pebble
05. C’est La Vie
06. Battlefield including Epitaph
07. Karn Evil 9 1st impression, part 2
08. Memories Of An Officer And A Gentleman
09. In The Wake Of Poseidon
10. Lucky Man
11. The Sage / The Great Gates Of Kiev

Produced by Greg Lake and Max Marchini
music arranged by Max Repetti
Project coordination: Regina Lake
Recorded by Alberto Callegari @ Elfo Studios
© 2018 Manticore Records Ltd.

Visit Manticore Italy Records to purchase Annie Barbazza & Max Repetti’s MOONCHILD: www.manticorerecords.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Annie Barbazza & Max Repetti, Greg Lake, Press Release

2018/05/17

Australian-American New York Rock Band THE WALK-A-BOUT to Release Sophomore Album THINGS ARE LOOKING UP with Ridge Hill Records

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Australian-American New York Rock Band THE WALK-A-BOUT to Release Sophomore Album THINGS ARE LOOKING UP with Ridge Hill Records

Long Island, NY – Aussie-American acoustically driven rock ‘n’ roll quintet THE WALK-A-BOUT hail from the artistic East End of Long Island, New York. THE WALK-A-BOUT are releasing their sophomore album THINGS ARE LOOKING UP, produced by Andrew Michael Bertrand and mastered by Roger Lian, in stores and online worldwide on June 15, 2018. A limited edition 180-Gram Red Splatter Vinyl will also be available with the official album release. The band’s carefully crafted songwriting has allowed THE WALK-A-BOUT to explore the outer reaches of the orchestral atmosphere, and this dynamic new collection explores that avenue with a welcome pop appeal while maintaining their depth and introspection.

The album’s featured single “That’s Just the Way It Goes” will be airing on radio stations with a music video for the song launched to hundreds of broadcast video channels. Members of THE WALK-A-BOUT have worked with the likes of Bill Ortiz (Santana), Vince Welnick (The Tubes, The Grateful Dead), renowned jazz saxophonist David Murray, Earl “Chinna” Smith (Bob Marley and The Wailers), and Grammy winning film composer Alex Wurman. With something in their catalogue for every mood, whether it is a smooth island vibe, a high-stepping funk feel, or straight hard-driving rock, their music is visceral, emotional, fun, and easy.

After self-realized string master Kevin Anderson had composed a growing catalog of guitar vignettes over several years, fate brought him together with Australian singer/songwriter, blues harpist, and didgeridoo player Darren “Sully” Sullivan. Sully was the perfect songwriting partner to translate Kevin’s vision into the lyrical domain, and they began working together in the fall of 2015. At that time, as part of a crew on a ship, Sully penned his lyrics for the material while sailing around the world. He applied his very special brand of wordsmithing, creating imagery for Kevin’s original titles that spanned a wide range of subjects from heartbreak, to soul-searching, adventure, to introspection, to even the simple concept of enjoying being alive, permeating each musical piece with a special energy.

THE WALK-A-BOUT lineup moved closer to completion with a chance introduction to career drummer/producer Drew Bertrand in December 2015. Drew quickly acknowledged the unique nature of Kevin and Sully’s writing and began sculpting arrangements and cadence for every song, carefully recognizing the distinct identity of each piece. As the material coalesced, Drew called on his music business partner Michael Perrotta, multi-instrumentalist and co-owner of Ridge Hill Sound Studios, to come join the sessions and help craft arrangements. He was able to shape the harmonic relationships within each piece in a way that few musicians have such command of doing.

This proved to be the catalyzing factor that led to THE WALK-A-BOUT’s self-titled debut LP, which was recorded and launched independently on April 29th, 2017 on CD, Vinyl, and Digital formats. Recorded at Ridge Hill Sound Studios, the album boasts a multi-faceted exploration of moods, from the hard driving exclamation of the first single “Traveler,” to the introspective depth of “Look at the Moon,” to the funk energy of “Shakin’ It Up,” and beyond. The final track on the record, “Fortune Favors the Brave,” describes the overall message in all its epic grandeur. On August 24th, 2017, THE WALK-A-BOUT released a limited edition 12″ 45RPM single and B-side including the tracks “Drifting Tide” and “Oasis” called The Walk-A-Bout II, also recorded and mixed at Ridge Hill Sound Studios.

Following these first releases, local radio stations had very positive reactions, and it was apparent at any performances that people loved the band’s sound. After a benefit performance for one of the listener-sponsored stations that was airing their music, THE WALK-A-BOUT had yet another chance meeting with Dave Christian, a longtime musician friend of Drew’s. Dave quickly fell in love with their sound; he expressed interest in working together, and without question he was invited to play on the second release. The subsequent sessions proved that Dave’s influence on the sound was exactly what The Walk-A-Bout was looking for. His vocal and electric guitar contributions were ingredients that rounded out the sound on all the material the band had been recording and performing live. Fan reaction to Dave’s contribution has proven to increase the audience-band relationship during any performance to date.

THINGS ARE LOOKING UP is the second album from THE WALK-A-BOUT and will release in stores and online June 15, 2018. The album was primarily conceived in the studio during pre-production, with the songs on the record representing the momentum that the band was feeling during the time. The essence of urgency within the album was derived from the creative process in the studio and the perspective of lead singer Sully, who was back home in Australia at the time penning the lyrics. As the material was developed and tracked, Dave Christian, working with producer Drew Bertrand, offered his contributions to the recordings. This unique way of developing the record is reflected in the undeniable energy of the release.

THE WALK-A-BOUT will tour to support the album along the East and West Coasts throughout 2018, as well as Australia in February 2019.

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

To Pre-Order THINGS ARE LOOKING UP on digital services please visit: http://smarturl.it/TheWalk-a-Bout

To Pre-Order THINGS ARE LOOKING UP on Bandcamp please visit: https://walkabout.bandcamp.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 Press Release, The Walk-A-Bout