Category Archives: Press Release

2012/08/17

Bass Virtuoso Brad Russell Debut CD ‘Let’s Hear It” Featuring Guitar Legend Joe Satriani Now Available on Steve Vai’s Digital Nations Label

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Bass Virtuoso Brad Russell Debut CD ‘Let’s Hear It” Featuring Guitar Legend Joe Satriani Now Available on Steve Vai’s Digital Nations Label

August 17, 2012 – New York, NY – Much to the excitement of bass players around the world, bass guitar virtuoso Brad Russell has released his debut solo album ‘Let’s Hear It!’ on Steve Vai’s Digital Nations label. Featuring guitar legend Joe Satriani, ‘Let’s Hear It!’ explores musical frontiers where no bassist has gone before! Brad is a true bass hero and his debut CD is a solid sampling of creative cutting edge “lead” rock bass playing. Russell taps, slaps and shreds his four-string bass, sounding more like a six string guitar – fans of Billy Sheehan will not be disappointed. Brad’s solos bring to mind Vai and Jeff Beck more than they do other bass players. Along with guitar great Joe Satriani, who joins Russell for a heavy shred fest, drummer Gregg Bissonette (David Lee Roth, Joe Satriani, Santana, Ringo Starr’s All Star Band) provides rhythmic genius on all tracks.

“Amazing playing, cool songs!” – Steve Vai

Born in Detroit, Brad Russell (aka Russo) was raised in a musically diverse household. He recalls, “My brothers listening to everything from James Brown to Aerosmith and my mom spinning Bill Evans or Stan Getz records.” After studying acoustic bass in high school, Brad attended the University of Miami’s school of music and received a master’s degree. He later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and worked for Shrapnel/Blues Bureau records producer Mike Varney. Brad has performed/recorded with a variety of artists such as: Mariah Carey, Clarence Clemmons, Greg Allman, Joe Walsh, Neil Young, Rick Derringer, Jack DeJohnette, Neal Schon, Joe Satriani, Lonnie Smith, Billy Preston and many others. Currently living in NYC, Brad has also performed for the Broadway musicals ‘Jersey Boys’ and ‘Grease’. “I became involved with Digital Nations through my association with Joe Satriani,” Brad explains. “Since Joe played on my CD, I asked him if he could give a copy to Steve Vai and he did! Steve really liked it and signed me to Digital Nations.”

“Brad Russell is an amazing bass player and totally outrageous musician!” – Joe Satriani

Throughout his debut release Brad continues to push the boundaries of the bass guitar. “I believe I’m pushing the edge of instrumental rock bass playing,” says Brad. “There are many great bass players out there today in jazz and fusion…but not too many bass players are taking the spotlight in a predoninantly guitar-based musical genre like rock. I’m also truly playing the electric bass like a bass ‘guitar’. I’m using the tremolo bar on my bass and effect pedals like distortion and wah wah . In addition, I’m playing most of the parts a guitarist would play (chords, fast picking, tapping, etc), but on bass.”

“Brad is an amazing player with tons of creativity and really musical chops!” – Gregg Bissonette

In closing Brad has this to impart: “I’m trying to express the wide range of the bass guitar through my music. As well as playing the bass in a more traditional way, I’m trying to show the wide range of ‘lead’ sounds you can get out of the instrument and the different roles the bass can play throughout a song. I’m also trying to express that people can dig my music for its grooves and melodies and overall ‘feel’… In other words, it doesn’t matter if it’s a bass player playing the leads or a guitar player, if it feels good and it ROCKS, that’s all that really matters!”

“Brad Russell is one of the sickest bassests out there! He goes from ‘Duck’ Dunn to Stanley Clarke to over the top Steve Vai distortion fueled whammy bar riffs all within a few measures!” – Kinley Wolfe (bass player with the Cult, Lord Tracy, Shawn Lane)

Brad Russell proudly endorses: Warwick® Basses, Kahler® Tremolos La Bella® Strings

To purchase Brad Russell ‘Let’s Hear It!’ http://www.digital-nations.com/artists/premier-dn-artists/brad-russell

For more information: http://bradrussellbass.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Brad Russell, Press Release

2012/08/12

Legendary Vocalist Greg Lake Extends Songs of a Lifetime to UK and Europe Following Successful North American Tour

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Legendary Vocalist Greg Lake Extends Songs of a Lifetime to UK and Europe Following Successful North American Tour

Greg Lake, tours the UK and Europe in “Songs of a Lifetime”, a shared musical journey full of drama and laughter which critics hail as an “artistic triumph” and fans say is the “experience of a lifetime”

August 13, 2012 – Legendary singer and songwriter Greg Lake tours the UK and Europe in Songs of a Lifetime, a shared musical journey and performance experience, which received rave reviews from fans and critics alike in North America. The tour begins this November 2012 in the UK.

Hailed as an “artistic triumph” and “the experience of a lifetime”, Songs of a Lifetime gives new insight into Greg Lake and his influences, while showcasing the influence his writing and voice have had not only for rock and roll, but contemporary music of all types.

Greg Lake has long been considered a legendary voice and musical powerhouse whose impact changed the landscape of rock and roll. Many simply refer to him as “The Voice.” Visionary and creative, Songs of a Lifetime provides an evocative, emotional ride into the life and music of one of the world’s most popular songwriters in a unique format which relies on audience involvement as well as the artistry of the performer.

The tour gives theatre goers the opportunity to hear songs written by Lake and others from Emerson, Lake & Palmer, King Crimson, the Beatles, Curtis Mayfield, Elvis, and more reimagined and reinterpreted for the stage. Audience members are encouraged to ask questions and share musical memories. The customized design allows for a different and personal experience for the audience and artist every night, featuring stories of Lake’s encounters with other musical greats who influenced him as well as shared memories created from what Greg calls “the shared journey” he has with the audience which allows the gift of music to “move from soul to soul and spirit to spirit.”

The show’s appeal has moved beyond fans of Greg Lake’s music, which helped fuel generations of rock and roll, to those who simply love music. Both those intimately familiar with Greg’s music and those who come to the show with roots in classical, blues, and succeeding generations of rock and roll find themselves enchanted and entranced.

“The concept of performing an intimate and autobiographical show presents a huge challenge,” Lake says. “The evolution of the experience is so invigorating it still gives me a thrill every time I think about it. The task is to develop an event that is memorable and unique, unexpected and impactful. I want to defy expectations and defy what people expect when they hear the words ‘one man show’. I am pleased to say that we have been successful in stepping up to that challenge to create an experiential show that is as much an event as it is a performance.”

“We create an intimate and unusual event together,” he adds. “However, at the end of the night the most important [thing] of all is that everyone feels entertained and enriched by the whole live experience.”

More surprises are ahead for fans and each show is both exciting and different. Lake has taken care to explode expectations of the ordinary to create something extraordinary.

“This is not a boring show, with me just strumming folk songs,” Greg promises. “It is a highly produced show with lots of drama and pathos,” he continues. “Everyone feels part of something indescribable, remarkable and enlightening, as well as having been entertained by shared memories of our musical journeys together.”

The UK and European legs of the tour follow a successful North American run, with rave reviews by audience members and critics alike.

“If you love music, you will love this show. I’ve never felt so much part of what is happening.”

“Greg Lake’s music is the music of my life. I can’t believe that I had the opportunity to speak with him, laugh with him, and to feel as if he and I were in his living room, good friends sharing good times.”

“Greg Lake is so humble and moving. He speaks with deep respect and humility of his idols in rock and roll, while the audience regards him as the iconic equals of those he honours.”

“It is an amazing show, not to be missed. I’ve seen it all and thought I heard it all, but if you love music, if you love rock and roll, you want to be part of this.”

The tour coincides with the upcoming release of Greg Lake’s autobiography, Lucky Man, and was inspired by it, but the two are not the same.

The autobiography is NOT an audio recording of the show, but a narrative of Lake’s experiences from childhood to the present, including never before revealed details, funny and poignant moments, and colorful facts of his amazing career as one of the world’s leading and influential musicians, songwriters, vocalists and poets. The autobiography will be released in three audio book volumes, read by the author. The first volume will be available at the show; the complete print edition is anticipated at the end of the year.

New editions of Greg Lake’s solo albums and DVDs are also expected to be made exclusively available to those fans in attendance.

Special VIP packages, which include sound check attendance, post-show interaction and photo opportunities, post-show receptions with the singer and signed merchandise, are available at http://www.greglake.com.

Greg Lake is managed by Stewart Young and the UK and European Dates are booked by World Concert Artists. corrado@worldconcertartists.org. More information can be found at http://www.greglake.com .

Check out the following montage of the show:

Greg Lake Songs of a Lifetime TOUR DATES – United Kingdom

November 12 & 13:

Pocklington Arts Centre, Pocklington, England
November 15:

The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh, Scotland
November 17:

Lomond Auditorium, Glasgow, Scotland
November 18:

Mill Volvo Tyne Theatre, Newcastle, England
November 19:

Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, England
November 20:

Philharmonic, Liverpool, England
November 22:

Corn Exchange, Cambridge, England
November 23:

G Live, Guildford, England
November 24:

Guildhall, Southampton, England
November 25:,

O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, London, England
More European dates are being added and will follow shortly.

UK press contact:
Billy James
Glass Onyon PR
glassonyonpr@gmail.com
PH: 828-350-8158

Global press contact:
Ellie Schwartz
ellieschwartz@aol.com
PH: 347.678.1760

Leave a comment | posted in Greg Lake, Press Release

2012/08/03

Highly Anticipated Second CD Release By David Watt Besley Featuring Former Bon Jovi and Survivor Members Now Available

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Highly Anticipated Second CD Release By David Watt Besley Featuring Former Bon Jovi and Survivor Members Now Available

August 3, 2012 – St. Augustine, FL – One of the breakout CDs of 2012 was the debut release by David Watt Besley titled ‘Believe These Eyes’, which made a believer out of many listeners! Now, the highly anticipated second release by David Watt Besley titled ‘Hopeless Romantic’ is available! Featuring former Bon Jovi member Kurt Johnston and Barry Dunaway (Survivor/Yngwie Malmsteen/Pat Travers) along with Gove Scrivenor (Neal Young/John Prine/Dolly Parton/Hank Williams Jr) and a host of other top Northeast Florida musicians, David has created a unique sound on his new release. If you molded Cat Stevens and John Prine you would come up with David Watt Besley. Freelance writer Richard Wall says, “I really got the Cat Stevens influence, particularly in David’s singing style. But the songs have a newness to them; they are well written, telling his stories from the heart, along with some sterling accents on a solidly enjoyable musical foundation, which suits the material.”

Virginia-born singer/songwriter David Watt Besley currently resides in Saint Augustine, Florida. In the mid-seventies David was part of the band Saucer, who were one of the first US bands looked at by Virgin Records. In the late seventies David played bass and wrote music with the NorthStar Band, one of Washington, DC’s most influential music groups. In the early 1980s David toured with Bob Margolin (Muddy Waters). In 1986 he joined his brother Ed Pickett and formed The Seiners, based out of Jekyll Island, Georgia and toured the southeast. In the early ’90s David joined the group Those Guys (several times voted Saint Augustine’s #1 band). The band also included Artimus Pyle (Lynyrd Skynrd) and Banner Thomas (Molly Hatchet). In 2009 he reformed Northstar with his brother Ed and signed a publishing deal with Shadow Mountain Music. In 2010 David put together The Big Lonesome, a group featuring some of David’s favorite local players and writers. During this time he also started a solo career simply called “DAVE”. Even though David loves to get together with Northstar and The Big Lonesome, he has found that his solo career is the most enjoyable – Dave and his music. Which leads to the release of his critically acclaimed 2011 debut CD ‘Believe These Eyes’; a CD that received praise from press and fans alike worldwide. And now, with his sophomore release ‘Hopeless Romantic’, recorded with longtime friend and co-producer Jim Stafford (Eclipse Recording Company), David hopes to bring his music to a larger audience.

“This is a collection of songs I have written over the years that I felt would go together well,” David explains. “Along with the special guest artists, I was real proud to have two of my lifelong friends record tracks on this CD, Chuck Caudill and Jim Miner, guys I played in bands with when I was 13. The covers I did were from two of my favorite writers and were both very big influences on my style of music. I have purposely tried to keep an acoustic feel on this release as I did on ‘Believe These Eyes’ I’m not trying to follow any fads, I am just trying to make good music!” David is currently playing select gigs in support of his latest CD release.

Finally David had this to impart: “Music is my life, it is what makes my world go around. I would like to thank all the fans that are following my music, it helps keep me going!”

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

To Purchase David Watt Besley – ‘Hopeless Romantic’ CD: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/davidwattbesley2

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

Leave a comment | posted in David Watt Besley, Press Release

2012/08/02

UK Electro-Acoustic Group Auburn’s Reunion CD ‘Indian Summer’ Receives Rave Reviews

By glassonyonpr


Photo by Phil Reeve

For Immediate Release

UK Electro-Acoustic Group Auburn’s Reunion CD ‘Indian Summer’ Receives Rave Reviews

July 31, 2012 – London, UK – One of the break-out releases of 2012, UK electro-acoustic ensemble Auburn’s ‘Indian Summer, has been garnering rave reviews worldwide. Featuring singer/songwriter Liz Lenten, Auburn reunited in 2011 after an almost 10-year hiatus! The group released their critically acclaimed CD ‘Indian Summer’ on May 7, 2012 on Scarlet Records, distributed through Gonzo MultiMedia. Described as a band that delivers “songs from the heart” by the London Evening Standard, and “Dreamy, moody and atmospheric” by Classic Rock Society, Auburn has been touring the UK in support of their new CD release. ‘Indian Summer’ is a mix of up-beat and slower tempo electro-acoustic pop music, but borrowing much from the roots, country and blues genres, with a slightly retro sound but still very 2012. “We have been really thrilled by the positive reviews that the album has had and the response at the live shows,” says Liz. “It feels like people are getting it and getting me. There is definitely an awareness building around Auburn and the ‘Indian Summer’ album, and we mean to develop that by doing some new tracks after the summer, and more live shows later in the year and also next year.

Here’s what the press have been raving about Auburn’s ‘Indian Summer’:

“One of the prevading joys is Liz Lenten’s voice – at times etheral and wispy, at other times emotive and powerful, but always a joy” – Tumblr

“Fronted by a tremendous vocalist in Liz Lenten, whose influence bears hallmarks of some of the great dream pop singers, but with more singer songwriter approach, the group create mature heartfelt melodies for a new generation” – Morning Star Online

“A warm intimate blend of stripped down electro-acoustic pop…’Indian Summer’ is a lovely album from start to finish of intriguing laid back instrumentation, high-spirited vocals and spine tingling harmonies’ – Rhythm & Booze

“Easy listening, inspirational and rather relaxing” – Ravenheart

“An immaculate Autumn record, released in spring signals the welcome return of a warmly missed English ensemble” – DMNE

“Understated and more often than not charming Liz Lenten’s pop styled folk has a beautiful, and on occasions, a quirky feel” – Flyingshoes

Fronted by female vocalist Liz Lenten, who’s voice has been described as “so sweet it’ll make your hair curl” and “husky, with an emotional frailty”, who isn’t afraid to show her full range of vocal tones or emotions. Likened on this album to singers including Macy Gray, Karen Dalton and Lady Daisey and with varied influences from Bonnie Raitt, Billie Holiday, Ricki Lee Jones, Amy Winehouse, Kate Bush and Janis Joplin to name a few, Liz’s songs grab you melodically, but also tell a story of love and life. The Auburn band is a mixed sound of lush acoustic guitars, rich cello lines and groovy percussion, underpinned by hypnotic bass lines.

Along with the positive reviews, Auburn’s ‘Indian Summer’ has been garnering substantial airplay around the world including stations like WWSP, KKUP, WCUX (USA), Roots Revival (Belgium). The album reached #18 in the UK Roots radio airplay chart on May 30, 2012. More live dates and a live video are in the works: “We are playing a full band show at ‘Exhibition Road Festival’ in London on July 29th, and then an acoustic showcase at the ‘Blue Nile Club’ in New Orleans on August 3rd for the E1 conference,” says Liz. “Then, more live dates after the summer and now looking at a UK tour the end of 2012 or early 2013, then we’ll be back in the USA next summer for some live dates and festivals.”

Auburn – ‘Indian Summer’

Label: Scarlet Records / Distribution: Gonzo/Proper

To purchase Auburn – ‘Indian Summer’: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/search/product_details/15443/Auburn-Indian_Summer.html

For more information: http://www.auburn.org.uk

http://www.facebook.com/auburnindainsummer

TV and Radio: Amanda Beel – All About Promotions: 020 7328 4836

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

Leave a comment | posted in Auburn, Press Release

2012/07/24

New CD From Original Fleetwood Mac Guitarist Jeremy Spencer To Be Released Worldwide On August 28, 2012

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

New CD From Original Fleetwood Mac Guitarist Jeremy Spencer To Be Released Worldwide On August 28, 2012

July 24, 2012 – San Francisco, CA – On April 21st, legendary guitarist Jeremy Spencer, an original member of Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac, member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and featured artist on Propelz, released a limited edition double vinyl album titled ‘Bend In The Road’ for International Record Store Day. The release packs a “vintage vibe” by way of Jeremy’s handmade touch, fusing his artistry as a consummate slide guitarist, singer/songwriter, interpreter, and illustrator. His evocative watercolor graces the timeless gatefold cover, recalling enduring albums when records were the sum of their parts and made with consequence. Within is an equally crafted collection of songs coming from the deepest core of his heart. He sounds as authentically tasty and fiery as ever, displaying a far wider guitar palette, insight, and conviction that have continued to evolve since his long absence from the public eye. On August 28, 2012 Jeremy Spencer’s ‘Bend In The Road’ will be released on CD worldwide with a new package design.

In Fleetwood Mac, Jeremy shared the spotlight with reticent star-super nova Peter Green, embodying Elmore James riffs and vocals obsessively and uncannily. He possessed an equal fervor and absolute command of quintessential early rock and roll, personifying personal hero Buddy Holly and his ilk spot on. On ‘Bend In The Road,’ the Elmore and Buddy influences and impeccable blues and rock rendering remain intact and vibrant, while also present is a new collaborative nature. He selflessly trades guitar licks and support with Brett Lucas (the young Detroit guitarist and aficionado who co-produced the album and whose band augments the proceedings) in the way Green and Kirwan shared on the iconic “Albatross”, the torching “Like It This Way” and the introspective “World In Harmony”. On the album’s elegant “Merciful Sea”, producer Brett managed to persuade Jeremy to reveal his hereto unsung, intimate, and affecting piano playing for all to marvel. Throughout the full 32 tracks recorded at this time, one can hear an expansive range of influences from Django to Marty Robbins. Jeremy plays effortlessly while seamlessly incorporating these influences and making them his own, as natural and easy of a fit as that of his beloved ceramic slides.

This record is a career culmination of technique meeting soul that has a transcendent, “Layla-esque,” quality. With its escalating and emotive sequence of songs, which are spiritually driven and invested (recalling LPs of yore, but without sounding dated), the album instead sounds intoxicatingly assured, relaxed, and out of the blue resonant.

The Special Limited 2-LP Gatefold Edition released on Record Store Day, April 21st, 2012, contains 17 tracks, 4 of which are exclusive: Jambo, Strange Woman, The Sun is Shining, and Blind Lover (but without the song Homework, which only appears on the CD).

In 2006 Jeremy Spencer released his album ‘Precious Little’, which met with enthusiastic reviews and marked a new beginning for Jeremy after virtually disappearing from the music world for 33 years.

Press surrounding ‘Bend In The Road’ includes:

“I had chills up my spine listening to it tonight, and when I heard ‘Aphrodite’ the first time a few days ago, I was literally right back into ‘Then Play On’ territory…couldn’t believe it…an instant classic right there.” Rick Frystak, Amoeba Records

“Inside is a collection of songs that come from Spencer’s love of the blues. It’s an intimate journey but one that will connect profoundly and repeatedly with listeners.” Clive Rawlings, Blues Matters

“An album I am sure will satisfy all good music lovers, from those who loved the original Fleetwood Mac, to the younger ones, who enjoy pop music, blues, rock, classical music, soul… So, if you like good music, this album is perfect for you.” Vincent Zumel, La Hora del Blues

” ‘Bend In The Road’ flows with the ease of a master craftsman at the top of his game. His obvious skill and passion for what he does makes this disc impossible for me to remove from the player. It has simply mesmerized me.” Monte Adkinson, Suncoast Blues Society

‘Precious Little’ left Blues aficionados eager for more… and now, six years later, Jeremy Spencer has put together a masterpiece with his new release, ‘Bend in the Road’.

For more Information: http://jeremyspencer.com/

Promotional Requests or to set up an Interview, please contact: Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 or via e-mail at glassonyonpr@gmail.com

High res photos can be downloaded at: http://www.propelz.com/press-kits

For US distribution inquiries, please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective, telephone: 415-292-7007 or via e-mail at sales@independentdistro.com

Leave a comment | posted in Jeremy Spencer, Press Release

2012/07/20

Jon Anderson To Play Special Concert In London At Sadler’s Well On August 8, 2012

By glassonyonpr


Photo by Dave Johnson

For Immediate Release

Jon Anderson To Play Special Concert In London At Sadler’s Well On August 8, 2012

July 20, 2012 – Asheville, NC – Music legend and original YES vocalist and songwriter Jon Anderson will be playing special one-off concert on August 8th at the Sadler’s Wells Theater in London. This will be the first time Jon has performed in the UK since his successful tour with Rick Wakeman in 2010. “The concert in London is with the Slovakian Chamber Orchestra with the help of my good friend composer Peter Machajdik plus a semi acoustic group I performed with a couple of years ago in Bratislava,” says Jon. “ ‘Concert for Earth and Peace’ – the show will be around one hour long, with classic YES songs, and Vangelis songs, plus ‘Earth and Peace’, a new song written with the music of Austin Haynes, and some surprises.” Also performing, Miro Zbirka from Slovakia, a celebrated singer/songwriter with a career spanning 40 years.

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

Jon recently completed a successful summer tour in support of his critically acclaimed new 21-minute digital download release ‘OPEN’. Here’s what the press have raved about Jon’s past few tours:

“Jon Anderson is as engaging and charming as ever!” – Howard Whitman, E-Gear Magazine, Philadelphia

“…with the still-sky-high voice wove together tunes from across his career” – Thomas Kintner, Hartford Courant, Hartford, CT

“Anderson’s voice is still remarkable!” – Victor Fiorillo, The Philly Post

“His gentle, joyful presence brings light into even a darkened room” – Eri-Chan Listens

“It was clear the audience was having a good time as they sang along with Anderson, cheered him on, danced at their tables, and gave him a standing ovation during the end of the show and the encore – the place was filled with excitement, happiness and lots of love!” Ashley Perez – Chicago Music Examiner

“The songs were clearly different….warm, and enough to remind listeners why they fell in love with YES in the first place” – John J. Moser, The Morning Call, MD

In other news, a vocal version of Vangelis’s song “Chariots of Fire’ titled “Race To The End”, with lyrics penned by Jon, has become a hit song in the UK by Russell Watson. Jon is currently recording part two to his recently released 21-minute musical opus ‘OPEN’ titled ‘Ever’. “Music is constantly happening all around me. I’m busy working on ‘Ever’, a follow up to ‘Open’, part two of my journey into the longer form music I love to create.” Also, Jon is working on the highly anticipated sequel to his critically acclaimed first solo album ‘Olias of Sunhillow’ titled ‘Zamran’ “Zamran is slowly finding me, or I’m slowly finding Zamran (Son of Olias), sometimes good things take time I’m told. with love….many blessings…..Jon Anderson”

Lastly, Jon will be touring South America in the Fall 2012, for tour dates visit http://www.jonanderson.com/tour.html

Jon Anderson ‘OPEN’ digital download available: http://www.amazon.com/Open-Single/dp/B005XT5Z8U/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1336499182&sr=1-1

Jon Anderson ‘Survival & Other Stories’ available through Gonzo MultiMedia:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk,

http://www.jonanderson.com, http://www.facebook.com/thejonanderson,

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

Leave a comment | posted in Jon Anderson, Press Release

2012/07/16

Prolific Progressive Rock Icon Neal Morse Moves Forward With a Blistering, Melodic New Release, “Momentum”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Prolific Progressive Rock Icon Neal Morse Moves Forward With a Blistering,
Melodic New Release, “Momentum”

July 16, 2012 – Nashville, TN—Coming off of a highly successful 2011 marked by the release of the critically acclaimed “Testimony 2” and an enthusiastically attended tour throughout the U.S., Mexico and Europe, Neal Morse could easily have justified going on a creative hiatus to catch his breath. But that would fly in the face of his convictions and the sense that he is being led to build upon the swell of success he is experiencing.

In January 2012, Morse was pondering the possibilities of a change in direction. After all, it had been a decade since he left the progressive rock stalwart Spock’s Beard to pursue a solo career that would allow him to write more freely about his personal faith. And in that time he had recorded 6 impressive studio records that were heralded for their unique hybrid of epic compositions that tested the boundaries of musicianship while maintaining a remarkable sense of melody through irresistible hooks and addictive choruses. He could have taken a break. Or gone in an entirely new direction. But he felt led otherwise, as summed up in the new record’s title track: “You’ve got some new momentum, you better keep going.”

Morse’s long time studio partner and friend Mike Portnoy had a small window in January 2012 when he could record. The only problem was, there was only one song and a few bits and pieces written. Taking a leap of faith, he scheduled a recording session with the drumming legend and longtime bass player Randy George in two weeks, hoping that the music would arrive before the musicians. And boy did it ever.

“Momentum” features five exceptional stand alone songs and one longer conceptual piece. In addition to the accessible title track, there’s the quirkily clever, Gentle Giant-inspired “Thoughts Part 5,” which follows in the footsteps of the previous “Thoughts” tracks penned by Morse with Spocks Beard. “Smoke and Mirrors” trods an introspective, acoustic path, while “Weathering Sky” offers a raucous cry for deliverance and renewal from a searching soul. Rounding out the shorter tracks is “Freak,” an upbeat, strings-charged song unlike anything Neal has recorded to date. Last comes “World Without End,” a near 34-minute, six-part epic that contains everything that defines Morse as a master of the genre.

Another highlight of this record is that, in addition to a masterful solo by guitar wizard Paul Gilbert, there are contributions from Adson Sodré, Bill Hubauer and Eric Gillette—three musicians who were selected as members of Morse’s new touring band through an exciting YouTube driven open audition process.

While “Momentum” propels Morse forward and further cements his standing as a prolific progressive rock icon, it steers clear of the potential “more of the same” trap, and features fresh musical angles and some of the finest performances to date by the Morse, Portnoy, George team.

The release of “Momentum” on September 11 will be quickly followed up by a North American tour that spotlights the fresh talent of his new live band, with stops in such cities as Nashville, Jacksonville, New York, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Seattle and Mexico City.

Much to the delight of progressive rock fans around the globe, Neal Morse is moving ahead with “Momentum,” and there doesn’t appear to be any kind of end to his unique creative talent in sight.

Momentum (6:25)
Thoughts Part 5 (7:51)
Smoke and Mirrors (4:38)
Weathering Sky (4:15)
Freak (4:29)
World Without End (33:39)
i Introduction
ii Never Pass Away
iii Losing Your Soul
iv The Mystery
v Some Kind of Yesterday
vi World Without End
Total Length: 61:17

Written and Produced by Neal Morse
“Thoughts Part 5”—Written by Neal Morse and Randy George
“Smoke and Mirrors” and “The Mystery”—Music by Neal Morse, Lyrics by Chris Thompson and Neal Morse
Mixed by Rich Mouser

Featured Musicians
Neal Morse – Keyboards, Guitars, Vocals
Mike Portnoy – Drums
Randy George – Bass
Additional Musicians:
Paul Gilbert – Guitar solo on “Momentum”
Adson Sodré – Guitar Solos on “World Without End”
Bill Hubauer – Clarinet, flute, guitar and additional keys on “The Mystery”
Eric Gillette – Additional vocals on “Thoughts Part 5”
Wil Morse – Additional vocals on “Thoughts Part 5”
Chris Carmichael – Strings
Rick Altizer – Additional vocals on “Weathering Sky” and “Smoke and Mirrors”

Contact:
Chris Thompson | (615) 672-7474
info@radiantrecords.com | Radiant Records | P.O. Box 123, Cottontown, TN 37048
nealmorse.com | facebook.com/nealmorse | twitter.com/nealmorse | nealmorsefans.com
metalblade.com | insideoutmusic.com
Available from (www.radiantrecords.com) and other fine music outlets worldwide

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

Leave a comment | posted in Neal Morse, Press Release

2012/07/14

Music Legends Magma Release New CD ‘Felicite Thosz’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Music Legends Magma Release New CD ‘Felicite Thosz’

July 13, 2012 – Paris, France – One of music’s most innovative and eclectic ensembles, Magma, has released a new CD titled ‘Felicite Thosz’ internationally on Seventh Records (June 2012). Having emerged unscathed from STAR WARS, don’t just sit there waiting for the end of the world. Take a leap into the MAGMA universe and grab their new studio album which is not to be missed under any circumstances: a trip which will lead you from Japan to the Urals via Central Asia with a detour to pay homage to Tamla Motown. Already aired in concert under the title ‘Felicite Thosz’ and well-attended by legions of the band’s fans, the piece is dominated by the celestial voice of Stella Vander and is a formidable mix of all the sonic colors which has made this cult band absolutely incatagorizable!

Magma was founded in Paris in 1969 by drummer Christian Vander, who derived his inspiration from a “vision of humanity’s spiritual and ecological future” that profoundly disturbed him. Vander was a self-taught musician, who received some tips from drum legend Elvin Jones. In the course of Magma’s first album, the band tells the story of a group of people fleeing a doomed Earth to settle on the planet Kobaïa. Later, conflict arises when the Kobaïans, who are descendants of the original colonists, encounter other Earth refugees. A distinguished aspect of Magma’s music is that Vander actually invented a constucted language, Kobaïan, in which most lyrics are sung. Later albums told different stories set in more ancient times; however the Kobaïan language remained an integral part of the music. Reportedly, Christian Vander is also highly influenced by the work of jazz legend John Coltrane. “For my work, it is still Coltrane who actually gives me the real material to work on, to be able to move on.,” says Vander.

Magma’s new CD features two pieces – the 28-minute title track ‘Felicite Thosz’, and a composition titled ‘Les Hommes Sont Venus’. Both tracks were recorded between September 2011 and April 2012 in Francis Linon’s new studio on the French Riviera. “I started working on this piece in 2001, right after I finished the exhausting recording of ‘Les cygnes et les corbeaux’,” explains Vander. “With ‘Felicite’, there was an immediate feeling of ease, the piece seemed to come to life, clear, under my fingers. True happiness beneath the complexity, the circumvolutions, the meanderings… the spires and the spirals of ‘Les cygnes et les corbeaux’. There lies the color of Magma’s great themes, and its quintessential spirit. One could say that the melodies have evolved, gained fluidity. The idea of renewal belongs to every civilization, celebrating beings, places, nature and gods. With the sounds, rites and traditions from various lands unfold. This theme offers a new aspect of Magma’s music, a source that unleashes its power flow. I hope you enjoy listening to it.”

In other news, Magma will be the headline act for the Zappanale Festival in Germany on August 3rd and Paris La Villette Jazz Festival on August 30th.

For more information visit:
http://www.seventhrecords.com
http://www.myspace.com/magmaofficial
seventh@seventhrecords.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Magma, Press Release

2012/07/13

Random Touch’s ‘Flock’ Concludes Their Career With a Bang

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Random Touch’s ‘Flock’ Concludes Their Career With a Bang

July 11, 2012 – Asheville, NC – Thirty-three years of collaboration and sixteen releases culminates in the masterpiece Flock, Random Touch’s final album. The ten tracks range from the bigger-than-life “Arena” to the uninhibited joy of “Dance of the Elementals” to the psychedelic final track, “She Wore Sheepskin”. In-between is found all manner of genre bending complexity and unnerving cinematic suspense.

Scott Hamill’s mastery of the bass guitar is notable on the album. Its pervasiveness recreates the traditional jazz trio, and yet jazz could be said to take a back seat to both 20th century classical and rock on this album. Much of the drum play is on an Ayotte set versus the DW kit that served for the previous releases, and the album also contains an unprecedented live track (# 6). The result of these changes is a freshness and newness that belies the band’s long history and propels the album to new heights.

“Poly-sound, across rhythm, melody and harmony, casts this music into a space between the atoms, tracing tangential connections that align to a sound residing deep down and out of sight.” – Christopher Brown, drums

Singular as the music of Random Touch is, there is little they do that has not been done within the 20th century classical “tradition” or the rock and jazz idioms. It is simply their willingness to take risks and their unique embracing of the unconscious and serendipity that sets them apart from most of their contemporaries.

“From screaming crowds to whispers. We’ve come together to define our wall of sound.” – James Day, keyboards

‘Flock’ will be available July 19, 2012 at CD Baby and http://www.RandomTouch.com. Additional information is available at the website.

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

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Random Touch

2012/07/12

Santana / Journey Founding Member Gregg Rolie Tours With Ringo Starr’s All Star Band, Schedules New Solo Dates In August

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Santana / Journey Founding Member Gregg Rolie Tours With Ringo Starr’s All Star Band,
Schedules New Solo Dates In August

7/9/2012 – Houston, TX – Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gregg Rolie, best known for his vocals and keyboard work with legendary music groups Santana and Journey, is currently on tour with Ringo Starr’s All Star Band. So far the response has been no less than phenominal! Along with Gregg Rolie, you can catch Steve Lukather, Todd Rundgren, Richard Page and of course, Ringo Starr, on the Ringo Starr All Star Band tour this June and July in the US and Canada. Some of the songs Gregg is performing on this tour are “Evil Ways”, “Everybody’s Everything” and of course “Black Magic Woman.”

“Gregg does have that incredibly huge ‘Black Magic Woman,’” Ringo recently told Sarah Rodman of The Boston Globe. “I’m playing like this Latin music for God’s sakes! Mr. Pop here! I’m having so much fun with his stuff.”

Ringo Starr’s All Star Band tour dates:

July 11 – Usana Ampitheater, Salt Lake, UT
July 13 – Northern Quest, Spokane, WA
July 14 – St Michelle Winery, Seattle, WA
July 15 – Edgefield, Portland, OR
July 17 – Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA
July 19 – Humphrey’s, San Diego, CA
July 21 – The Greek, Los Angeles, CA

In other news, Gregg Rolie Band will be playing select dates this August 2012. The Gregg Rolie Band will be performing electrifying versions of several Santana classics such as “Evil Ways”, “Black Magic Woman” “Soul Sacrifice”, “Jingo” and “No One To Depend On” as well as tracks from Rolie’s previous effort ‘Roots’ and new songs. The Gregg Rolie Band consists of Adrian Areas (son of original Santana percussionist Jose Chepito Areas) on Timbales, drummer Ron Wikso (who was also in The Storm), Elliot “Toby” Borrero on congas, Rocket Ritchotte on guitars, internationally acclaimed bassist Gary Brown and former Jean Luc Ponty keyboardist Wally Minko.

As you might imagine from his work with Santana and Journey, Gregg is no stranger to great musicianship. Given his experience and his desire to make the music the best it can be, he has chosen some of the best musicians in the world to bring his band and its music to life. Gregg was determined to resurrect the sound he helped shape and make famous as Santana’s original lead singer and keyboard player, while at the same time bringing it forward to the 21st century. To do that required finding just the right mix of experience, musicianship and chemistry. Having worked with some of the biggest names in music over the years and having toured the world many times over, these musicians have the skills to interpret this music in the way it is meant to be interpreted, as Gregg so intimately knows.

“The band are great, because we all really enjoy each other and I think the sound reflects the fun we are having,” says Gregg.

Gregg Rolie Band tour dates:

Fri Aug 03 – 5:00 PM – Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
Fri Aug 10 – 5:00 PM – Louisville Street Faire, Louisville, CO
Sat Aug 18 – 2:00 PM – Salem Riverfront Park, Salem, OR
Sun Aug 19 – 8:00 PM – Columbia Gorge Hotel Amphitheater, Hood River, OR,
Wed Aug 29 – 8:00 PM – Lakes Performing Arts Center, Okoboji, IA

Visit Gregg Rolie’s website for more information: http://greggrolie.com/tour.html

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

Leave a comment | posted in Gregg Rolie, Press Release