Category Archives: Press Release

2012/01/14

Spain’s Progressive Rock Legends Kotebel To Release Highly Anticipated New CD ‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Spain’s Progressive Rock Legends Kotebel To Release Highly Anticipated New CD
‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’

1/11/2012 – Madrid, Spain – With 5 albums released since 2000, including the highly acclaimed ‘Omphalos’ (nominated for ‘Best Foreign Record’ by ProgAwards in 2006) and ‘Ouroboros’ (Winner – ‘Best Foreign Record’ by ProgAwards in 2009), Kotebel is one of the main progressive rock acts to emerge from Spain and Latin America. And now, much to the anticipation of prog fans across the globe, Kotebel is preparing to release their 6th album ‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’. “The main body of the album is formed by the four movements that comprise the ‘Concerto for Piano’,” explains keyboardist and founding member Carlos Plaza Vegas. “It is pure music; no reference to extra-musical elements. However, the other four pieces on the album are based on conceptual elements.”

Formed in 2000, Kotebel is an eclectic project, immersed in the mainstream of progressive “art” music. Kotebel’s music is an elaborate, yet accessible blend of avant-garde symphonic rock, with a wide range of influences from classical to jazz to world music. The group sites influences as diverse as Genesis, Debussy, YES, ELP, Ravel, Messiaen, Thinking Plague, The Enid, Steve Hackett, Gentle Giant, King Crimson and Chopin. Kotebel has participated in prestigious festivals including BajaProg (Mexico – 2004), Gouveia Art Rock (Portugal – 2007/2010), ProgSud (France – 2007), Madrid Art Music Festival (Spain – 2008/2009), Go Prog (Portugal – 2009), Crescendo (France – 2010), sharing the stage with artists like Robert Fripp, Magma, After Crying, IQ, Allan Holdsworth, Deus Ex Machina, Isildurs Bane, Jerry Marotta, Pat Mastelotto and others.

Here’s what the press has said about Kotebel:

“This is one stellar disc of symphonic progressive rock!” – Jerry Lucky – The Progressive Rock Files

“This is a masterwork!” – Vitaly Menshikov – Progressor

“Outstanding symphonic prog!” – César Inca – Progarchives

“One of the great contemporary prog rock bands!” – Nuno – Prognosis

“Kotebel appear to be content on exploring and extending the boundaries of their chosen genre, and are definitely a band to watch out for.” – Dave Sissons – DPRP.net

“The musicianship is top-notch!” – Yves Dube – Sea of Tranquility

Kotebel’s current line-up:

Carlos Franco Vivas – drums and percussion
César Garcia Forero – guitars
Jaime Pascual Summers – bass
Adriana Nathalie Plaza Engelke – keyboards
Carlos G. Plaza Vegas – keyboards

Between the years 2000 and 2008 Kotebel went through a number of line-up changes, with Carlos Plaza Vegas remaining as the driving force throughout. Kotebel’s configuration as a five piece instrumental ensemble in 2008 quickly became an efficient performance engine, exploring aesthetic grounds that required more complex and demanding skills as individuals and collective performers. Along with releasing an album ‘Ouroboros’ in 2009, Kotebel toured Japan in the summer of that year and participated in a number of music festivals and performances in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy. Between September and December 2011 the ensemble recorded their forthcoming album ‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’, in which pre-orders are currently being taken. To be released in early 2012, the album will also include a DVD with a full rendition of the recording of the Piano Concerto.

“Since the first Kotebel album back in 2000, one of our goals has been to integrate elements of classical music in a language based in progressive rock,” explains Carlos. “’Ouroboros’ (2009) was a further step in that direction (for example, the ‘Ouroboros’ song is constructed upon a ‘Theme and Variations’ structure). However, it is in the ‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’ where this integration has been taken to its greatest extent in our music.”

Finally, Carlos has this to impart to the listening public: “For those still not acquainted with our music, I would invite you to visit our website where we have plenty of fragments from each and every track on our albums. Kotebel’s language is very eclectic and appealing to both fans of more traditional prog as well as more adventurous ones.”

To pre-order Kotebel ‘Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble’ CD:
http://www.kotebel.com/e-store/concerto.php

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Kotebel, Press Release

2012/01/10

Bass Legend Jeff Berlin Records An Astonishing New CD

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Bass Legend Jeff Berlin Records An Astonishing New CD

1/9/2012 – Clearwater, FL – Insiders who have heard bass legend Jeff Berlin’s newest CD are buzzing about the forthcoming release – a release that they are saying could possibly be the greatest bass album of all time! The word is that Jeff Berlin has recorded a jazz CD so astonishing that the artist himself is in shock with what he played! “I prepared for it by practicing 5 hours a day for weeks,” Jeff explains. “What came of my preparation was to record solos on the bass that I believe have never been heard before from a bass player!”

Also included on these virtuosic recording sessions are Richard Drexler on piano and upright bass and legendary drummer Mike Clark, best known for his work with Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters, who had this to say about Jeff’s new CD: “Everyone knows that Jeff is a virtuoso, but on his new CD he went past this! I’ve played with all of the great jazz bassists in the world and Jeff is at the top of my list. We locked from the first beat! The harmonic ideas that he played were unbelievable, and our time was astonishing. Jeff is the most forward-looking bassist I have ever played with. Jeff played like he wasn’t afraid to take a chance at any moment – he played at the highest level without a net. There just isn’t a CD like this one anywhere. He is a player’s player, a total artist and it showed on our collaboration together!”

Jeff added that, “Richard and Mike made this CD happen! Without them I never could have had the support and interplay that pushed me to play what I played. Mike’s time was swinging like a pendulum. And Richard is a freak: he actually played acoustic bass while I was soloing and then put it down to walk to the piano and take a solo. I don’t know of anyone else who could have done what he did!”

Jeff Berlin’s new CD, titled ‘Low Standards’ due to the performance of two bass players and Jeff’s penchant for puns (his previous recording was called ‘High Standards’) is scheduled for release at the end of February 2012. For more information visit Jeff Berlin’s official website at http://www.jeffberlinmusic.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Jeff Berlin, Press Release

2012/01/04

Italian Alternative-Metal Group Klogr To Release Debut CD ‘Till You Decay’ and Tour US West Coast

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Italian Alternative-Metal Group Klogr To Release Debut CD ‘Till You Decay’ and Tour US West Coast In January 2012

1/2/2012 – Milan, Italy – One of the heaviest new Alternative-Metal groups to emerge from Italy, Klogr (pronounced Kay-log-are), will be releasing their mind-blistering debut CD titled ‘Till You Decay’ in January 2012 on Valery Records. Described as “an alternative rock/metal album in which both the instrumental and the vocal lines are delivered very heavily at times and more melodic at other times creating the sound of Klogr”, fans of the band and music press worldwide have been anticipating the CD release.

The album is based on the concept that the society around us controls us, judges us, conditions us and ultimately suffocates us. A psychological game of massacre, control and power over the masses, in which they use fear and anxieties to destabilize a person into something more fragile, more controllable and more subservient… till you decay.

The Klogr’s name is a reference to the law of Weber-Fechner, developed in the second half of the the 800, which is known as the fundamental psychophysical relationship (S=K log R). The project, which resides on the thin line between alternative rock and alternative metal, is led by Gabriele “Rusty” Rustichelli (producer at ZetaFactory, former guitarist of SensAzionE and other Italian alternative projects). Klogr develops a a powerful sound that draws energy from a philosophy that challenges the contemporary culture, where every sense is cleverly used against men in the name of profit. Along with Rusty (vocals and guitars), and the other members of the Italian/American line-up include: Nicola Briganti (guitars and a member of Lena’s Baedream), Todd Allen (bass and a member of Beside Myself) and Filippo De Pietri (drums). All together they complete the Klogr circle.

The idea took shape in May 2010 and in June 2011 the group began recording their debut album at the ZetaFactory studio. From that point on, Klogr captured the attention of the public and aroused much curiosity among professionals and fans by posting several viral videos, showing the progress of the band in the studio. The date 11-11-11 brought the world premier of the group’s live show. The powerful attack of the eleven songs that make up the track list for ‘Till You Decay’ was greatly enjoyed and well-received by the enthusiastic audiences.

After the ten video presentations of the band’s sound, the first complete track to run on its network was “Live Dying”, the album’s opening track. “Bleeding”, the first chosen single due out in January, will be accompanied by a video that combines graphics and cinematography in line with the mood of Klogr. ‘Till You Decay’ is scheduled to be released worldwide on January 10, 2012 and will be supported by a US west coast tour and several European dates.

For more information: http://www.klogr.net

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@cs.com
Valery Records s.r.l.
V-Promotion agency
Via G.Pastorelli,12
20143 Milano ( MI ) – Italy
Tel: +39 (0)2 89421949
Fax: +39 (0)2 8361611
info@valeryrecords.com
promotion@valeryrecords.com
http://www.valeryrecords.com

Leave a comment | posted in Klogr, Press Release

2011/12/07

CIRCA: New Year’s Eve Internet Concert December 31st 2011

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

CIRCA: New Year’s Eve Internet Concert December 31st 2011

12/7/2011 – Los Angeles, CA – CIRCA: featuring former YES members Billy Sherwood & Tony Kaye with Johnny Bruhns & Scott Connor will be in concert, live, interactive, in real time and brought directly to your home via their new UStream channel “CIRCA: HQ” on December 31, 2011 (6:00 PM PST / 9:00 PM EST).

Performing songs from the newly released CIRCA: ‘And So On’ CD (available at http://www.circahq.com) as well as selected cuts from their previous studio CDs ‘CIRCA: 2007’ and ‘CIRCA: HQ’, and other tracks from their collective musical pasts.

HD cameras and pro audio combined puts you right in the center of the action. There will be a host taking questions for the band from the audience between songs making it a totally interactive experience and the first ever of its kind for CIRCA:

Put the champagne on ice, start the countdown and bring in the New Year with CIRCA: December 31st– tickets can be ordered directly from CIRCA: HQ UStream channel using paypal at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/circa-hq Anyone who misses the show in real time can at any point purchase a ticket and watch it at their own convenience from the UStream archives.

Preview 3 excerpts “Life’s Offering”, “Till We Get There” and “And So On” from the new CIRCA: CD ‘And So On’ on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/user/CircaHQ?feature=mhee#p/c/D2D8A5458B653210/4/swbxCGqX3ds

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Circa, Press Release

2011/12/05

Macon Guitar Legend Joey Stuckey Receives Prestigious Award, Gains New Endorsers and Composes Radio Theme Song

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Macon Guitar Legend Joey Stuckey Receives Prestigious Award, Gains New Endorsers and Composes Radio Theme Song

12/5/2011 – Macon, GA – Truly one of the hardest working people in the music industry, 2011 has been a landmark year for blind recording artist, engineer, producer and inspirational speaker Joey Stuckey. With the release of his latest acclaimed CD ‘The Shadow Sound’ in February of this year, Stuckey has been hitting the road performing and speaking all over the country – October alone saw Stuckey in Hawaii, Los Angeles and Nashville. However, October was a landmark month because Joey was honored by a non-profit organization in his hometown of Macon, Georgia where he serves as the official music ambassador. The organization “New Town Macon”, a non-profit tasked with revitalizing the downtown area of Macon, presented Joey with a special recognition award for his contribution to his community. Joey has been instrumental in shaping Macon’s musical landscape. Stuckey was also recognized for his active role in preparing for Macon’s future.

“I’m honored to be recognized for my efforts in promoting the music and history of Macon,” says Stuckey. “I look forward to being of service to my community for the rest of my life. I feel like this area, and Macon in particular, has as much musical talent as New York City or Los Angeles. We just have to find a way to make sure the rest of the world knows about it and come together as a community to ensure our musical economy continues to prosper!”

Stuckey’s father accepted the award on Joey’s behalf, from Greg Dent, a New Town Macon board member. Dent presented the award and said: “As Macon’s first official ‘Ambassador of Music’, Joey is a tireless and enthusiastic promoter of downtown, whose life work advances the city’s musical legacy. Joey’s business, Shadow Sound Studio on Third Street, brings musicians from around the globe to downtown Macon to record. Several of (Joey’s) own recordings have been nominated for Grammys. Joey is a band leader, educator, and promoter of civic activities who leads with a powerful and generous spirit. He has donated his time and talent to area schools and local organizations and recently provided a young boy in hospice care with his wish of recording in Joey’s studio. Anyone who knows Joey Stuckey knows that his enthusiasm and love of Macon never waivers.”

While October was a busy month with many exciting and amazing events for Stuckey, November has also been busy and a month of growth. First, Joey welcomes two new endorsers to the family. To enhance his studio and live performances and take his music production ability to the 23rd century, Joey has partnered with Misa Digital makers of the “Kitara”. “The Kitara is one of the most remarkable instruments to come out since the advent of the electric guitar,” says Stuckey.

This amazing MIDI controller gives guitarists new and innovative ways to make music both live and in the studio. For more information please visit http://www.misadigital.com, http://www.facebook.com/misadigital, twitter: misadigital, YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/misadigital

To add even more reasons to come out to one of Joey’s live performances, Joey has partnered with Kazoobie Kazoos. “As the official ambassador of music for Macon, Georgia – the birthplace of the kazoo – I am thrilled to partner with Kazoobie Kazoos to provide a limited number of souvenir kazoos to be given away and used during the audience participation parts of my concerts and inspirational talks,” says Joey. “I am excited that my fans will have this unique souvenir and fun musical instrument which truly allows us to share the gift of music! As a blind musician, sound is the only thing that I care about and Kazoobie Kazoos are unparalleled in their tonality and quality construction.” For more information or to acquire your own Kazoobie Kazoo go to http://www.kazoos.com

Stuckey’s studio records theme song for Talent Watch Radio: “We are proud to be working with Talent Watch, the fastest growing source for new talent discovery on the internet! It’s like ‘American Idol’ but better – and a great way for talent bookers, record labels, management firms and artists to connect.” Joey Stuckey, recording engineer, producer and owner of Shadow Sound Studio, was hired to compose and record the Talent Watch theme song being used to audio brand the Talent Watch radio show. Joey was also used to produce the most current episode of the radio show http://soundcloud.com/talent watch/talent watch-radio-show and train the staff of Talent Watch on producing future episodes of said show. Stuckey also has his voice heard in the intro of the show and the various promos for the show, both video and audio and throughout the program between songs branding the show.

Says Hugh Hession, Talent Watch radio host and partner of TalentWatch.net, “Talent Watch Radio decided to record and produce our latest show at Shadow Sound Studio with owner Joey Stuckey. We chose Shadow Sound because of Joey’s reputation of being a results-oriented engineer and producer. He understood our vision and was able to transform that into the caliber of show we desired. Talent Watch highly recommends Joey to anyone who wishes to up their game.” To check out Talent Watch and what it has to offer to both artists and industry pros alike visit: http://www.talentwatch.net

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Interview, Joey Stuckey, Press Release

2011/11/17

When Good and Evil Collide – Original Judas Priest Vocal Legend Al Atkins and Christian Guitarist Paul May Release ‘Atkins / May Project – Serpent’s Kiss’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

When Good and Evil Collide – Original Judas Priest Vocal Legend Al Atkins and Christian Guitarist Paul May Release ‘Atkins / May Project – Serpent’s Kiss’

11/17/2011 – London, UK – The rock world is buzzing with proof that good and evil can in fact work together in the form of former Judas Priest vocal legend and Holy Rage heavy metal frontman Al Atkins and Christian guitarist and music artist Paul May. Together these extreme opposites combine creating a powerful new CD called ‘Serpent’s Kiss’, now available on Gonzo Multimedia. The 10-track album is the product of two of the Midlands finest architects of rock and metal coming together to create something that is unique and totally exhilarating!

There are enough doses of melody and metal madness to entice all fans of the genre, and while it is solid, honest working class heavy metal, it also has its roots in contemporary metal with some fine axe-work and killer choruses. The cover art for ‘Serpent’s Kiss’ is also unique as it was created by world famous fantasy artist Rodney Matthews.

Al Atkins: More noted for forming UK’s Judas Priest and fronting them for four years and laying down the foundations which would see them eventually selling 40 million albums worldwide. He also wrote songs for them which went gold like “Dreamer Deceiver”, “Never Satisfied”, “Winter”, “Caviar and Meths” and Priest’s all time classic “Victim of Changes”. Al’s unique powerful vocal style sites influences by noted rock singers Roger Daltrey, Paul Rodgers and longtime friend Robert Plant. Al has done countless radio and TV interviews worldwide and recently was filmed for BBC TV ‘British Heritage’ and ‘Banger Films’ Canada for the metal evolution series on VH1. He has even written a book on his musical life about growing up in Birmingham, UK alongside Robert Plant and Black Sabbath called ‘Dawn of the Metal Gods’. Al has released 6 solo albums to date, toured the US twice, and has worked with Brian Tatler (Diamond Head), Dave Holland (Judas Priest), Dennis Stratton (Iron Maiden) and Bernie Torme (Ozzy/Gillan). Al recently released a new self titled album with his offshoot band Holy Rage and has now teamed up with brilliant Christian writer/guitarist Paul May and recorded an album called ‘Serpent’s Kiss’, which Al says are the best recordings to date!

Paul May: Some people learn to play guitar, Paul was born (again) to play guitar! Paul has become respected for his passionate, soulful guitar work and noted for his explosive and exciting solos. As a world class professional guitarist and songwriter, Paul has played and recorded sessions across the globe, touring and playing throughout the UK, Europe, USA and the Eastern block. Paul appears on around 50 albums to date, featured in both the secular and Christian arenas. Paul is also a record producer and has covered the entire spectrum of musical tastes in production. Paul has played, recorded with and produced alongside the bands and members of: Al Atkins (Judas Priest), Dave Holland (Judas Priest), Roy Wood (Move, ELO, Wizard), Jon Brooks (The Charlatans), Smokin Roadie/Tempest, MC5, V-Rats, Janus, A.N.D, Dave Rowley Band, Larry Norman and many others. Along with working with Al Atkins, Paul currently plays guitar with A.N.D and Temple Dogs.

“Working with Paul May on the ‘Serpent’s Kiss’ album was a fantastic journey,” says Al. “From the opening song ‘The Shallowing’ to the last song ‘Theatre of Fools’, it was an honor to have been asked by the brilliant guitarist Paul May to put this project together… Without a doubt this is one of the best albums I have appeared on since my early days with Judas Priest and that says something having written and recorded several of my own works.”

“This album was meant to be,” explains Paul. “When Al agreed to do the vocals it inspired me to write specific tracks tailored for his voice. Not only did Al deliver in abundance, he did so with world class! It’s what I’d call a ‘Classic Hard Rock/Metal’ album; that covers a wealth of subject matters and life experiences. It’s all rock ‘n’ roll! And a real triumph to me in so many ways. I just feel blessed! To again, be involved with such a great vocalist and friend and end up with such a cracking album is a gift indeed – rock on!”

Atkins / May Project ‘Fight’ video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP2px44Q-Wg
For more information: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk

To purchase Atkins / May Project ‘Serpent’s Kiss’:
https://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15396
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Serpents-Kiss-Atkins-May/dp/B005OQ7VU2

http://www.AtkinsMayProject.com
http://www.AlAtkins.com
http://www.PaulMayMusic.co.uk

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

Leave a comment | posted in Atkins / May Project, Press Release

2011/11/14

CLASSIC ROCK LEGENDS WISHBONE ASH CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF ‘ELEGANT STEALTH’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

CLASSIC ROCK LEGENDS WISHBONE ASH
CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF ‘ELEGANT STEALTH’

11/11/2011 – Danbury, CT – Elegant Stealth represents a benchmark in the evolution of Wishbone Ash, one of the most influential guitar bands in the history of rock. Signature twin-lead melodies and a powerhouse rhythm section frame 11 new tracks that reflect a diverse realm of styles and moods. Elegant Stealth will be released on ZXY Music on November 25th.

Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash has more than 20 original studio recordings and several live albums to their credit. On Elegant Stealth, the group coalesces around strong songwriting and serious chops. Founding member Andy Powell handles lead vocals and trades licks with Finland’s guitar wizard Muddy Manninen. Bassist Bob Skeat, a 14-year veteran of the band and in-demand studio musician, sets the pace with Joe Crabtree, one of the best of Britain’s new breed of drummers, having played with Pendragon and David Cross of King Crimson.

The band demonstrates its versatility on Elegant Stealth, from the pop/rocker “Reason to Believe” to the gentler vibe of “Give it Up” to tunes like “Warm Tears” and “Big Issues,” where the band gets to stretch out and flex its musical muscles.

Guest artists appearing on the new CD include Deep Purple’s Don Airey, who played Hammond B3 organ on the instrumental “Mud-slick,” and Ireland’s Pat McManus played fiddle on “Can’t Go It Alone,” which he penned specially for Wishbone Ash.

Citing Wishbone Ash as an influence on their style, Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden, Southern Rock outfits like Lynyrd Skynyrd and, more recently, heavyweights like Opeth and some of the guitar-based Indie/Alternative bands, have all taken a little something from the legendary twin-guitar approach of Wishbone Ash. Truly, there is no other rock band on the planet that has done more with the twin guitar concept than the Ash.

The band’s recent dates in Japan and arena shows in South Africa were a prelude to a 6-week European tour to support Elegant Stealth starting in early January. The States will be visited in April with summer festival work there and in Europe in 2012.

Tour dates and more information can be found at http://www.wishboneash.com

To download electronic press kit: http://www.wishboneash.com/epk

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

ZYX Records: http://www.zyx.de Wishbone Ash – Elegant Stealth: ZYX GCR 20066-2

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Wishbone Ash

2011/11/04

Yes Legends Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman To Release ‘Anderson / Wakeman -The Living Tree In Concert Part One’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Yes Legends Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman To Release
‘Anderson / Wakeman -The Living Tree In Concert Part One’

11/5/2011 – London, UK – As a follow-up to their critically acclaimed CD ‘The Living Tree’ from 2010, YES legends Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman prepare to release ‘Anderson / Wakeman – The Living Tree In Concert Part One’ on Gonzo Multimedia on November 28th. The CD was recorded during the duo’s British tour in 2010 and comes housed in a sleeve design by Mark Wilkinson who was also responsible for the design of the artwork for ‘The Living Tree’.

Having worked together on and off since 1971’s groundbreaking YES masterwork ‘Fragile’, Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman have traveled similar musical paths that have eventually and happily led their careers back together again. The duo began performing live together in the UK in 2006 playing both classics from the YES catalogue and selected tracks from the pair’s individual solo releases. In 2009 Anderson and Wakeman recorded the highly anticipated album ‘The Living Tree’ which garnered rave reviews worldwide. In 2010 it was announced that Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman were to tour together once more at the end of the year. The wildly successful tour featured material from their time with YES, but more importantly material from the duo’s new CD ‘The Living Tree’. A collection of live highlights from the tour were compiled and overseen by Jon and Rick for the upcoming release ‘Anderson / Wakeman – The Living Tree In Concert Part One’.

“The live recordings have a unique feel, the way we perform the show, it’s as though all the songs ‘old and new’ were written just a few months ago, all very timeless,” says Jon. “For many years Jon and I have felt it was really important to record all we do,” adds Rick, “whether for general release or just personal purposes, the decision being very much that of quality. We were so happy with the way that the live music was happening that we felt this was a must to record and put out a mixture of the music, both old and new, as a record of where we are at, at this moment, and also perhaps giving a hint as to where we can go on to. Music for us is progressive in all genres, and this album is yet another stepping stone in that quest.”

Tracks include:

And You & I
Living Tree (Part 1)
Morning Star
Long Distance Runaround
The Garden
Living Tree (Part 2)
Time and a Word
Just One Man
23/24/11
Southside of the Sky
House of Freedom
The Meeting

Here’s what the press are raving about the Anderson / Wakeman North American tour:

“Anderson and Wakeman not only proved that they make a vibrant twosome, but also it’s possible to reinvent YES classics without sacrificing any of the towering ambiance. Anderson’s earnest songwriting combined with Wakeman’s virtuosic vision on the keyboard/synthesizer made for a night of beautiful music.” David Hens – Examiner, Buffalo

“Anderson and Wakeman were the heart and soul of YES, and as much as I hate to say it, they seem to be better off without their former band mates. If you do have a chance to see them, you will not be disappointed, the duo’s incredible version of ‘Awaken’, that they end their regular set with, is worth the price of the admission alone.” Thom Jennings – Backstage Axxess

“This was an intimate concert, not an arena spectacle, and it underscored just how strong these great YES songs are when stripped of their musical excesses.” Greg Haymes, Times Union, Albany

“Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman aren’t YES. But the two musicians are certainly a major factor in that band’s best work. And in YES-land, Anderson and Wakeman certainly beat out the other live music options currently on display.” Jeff Miers – Buffalo News”

To purchase ‘Anderson / Wakeman – The Living Tree In Concert Part One’ ahead of its release date: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk
http://www.voiceprint.co.uk,

For more information:
http://www.JonAnderson.com
http://www.RWCC.com
See Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman in concert in North America: http://jonanderson.com/tour.html#awtour
Jon Anderson’s OPEN: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/open-single/id474552662?ls=1
Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@cs.com

Leave a comment | posted in Jon Anderson, Press Release, Rick Wakeman

2011/11/01

Legendary Alice Cooper Group Drummer and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Neal Smith To Unleash ‘KillSmith Two’

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Legendary Alice Cooper Group Drummer and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Neal Smith To Unleash ‘KillSmith Two’

10/31/2011 – Westport, CT – Hot on the heels of his induction into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, legendary Alice Cooper Group drummer Neal Smith is preparing to unleash upon the world his most aggressive release to date – ‘KillSmith Two’; a mind blistering, head banging masterpiece in metal macabre. Neal Smith, who recently reunited with Alice Cooper and recorded several new tracks for Alice’s ‘Welcome 2 My Nightmare’ (which also features fellow AC Group members Michael Bruce and Dennis Dunaway), promises his new CD will rock you to your very soul and then stomp on it!

“I think it’s the best writing I’ve ever done with industrial strength music,” says Neal. “The fourth song on the ‘K$2’ CD is called ‘Evil Voodoo Moon’. It is the song that’s the mother of Alice’s latest single called ‘I’ll Bite Your Face Off”, featured on his great new CD ‘Welcome 2 My Nightmare’. One of the main goals I had in mind while writing ‘K$2’ was to keep my lyrics radio friendly this time. My colorful vocabulary could make a drunken sailor blush. So I took it back a few notches for airplay, something I didn’t do on my first KillSmith CD ‘Sexual Savior’ when I just let all hell break loose.”

Neal Smith is best known worldwide for his innovative drumming and outrageous stage antics with the original Alice Cooper Group. His solid drumming is the hallmark sound behind such classic 1970’s Alice Cooper hits “School’s Out”, “I’m Eighteen”, “Billion Dollar Babies” and “No More Mr. Nice Guy”. Neal is also a prolific songwriter, who helped pen many of Cooper’s best known songs. The Alice Cooper Group was the first band to introduce theatrics to the rock and roll stage, the group has sold over 25 million records worldwide. Neal has six gold and five platinum records to his credit, and has performed before millions on extensive grand World Tours. From the late 1970s to the present, Smith’s trademark drums can be heard on several albums, including the Billion Dollar Babies, The Plasmatics, Buck Dharma, Deadringer, Bouchard, Dunaway and Smith, Cinematik and his most recent critically acclaimed solo project KillSmith CDs. KillSmith’s debut CD ‘Sexual Savior’ released in 2008 garnered praise from fans and critics worldwide. And now with ‘KillSmith Two’, Neal takes his ferocious brand of rock and roll to another level!

“In addition to crafting my lyrics for the radio, the new songs on ‘K$2’ have evolved with more defined choruses and themes,” explains Neal. “Heavy industrial guitars are still the heart of the KillSmith sound along with my pounding drums.”

KillSmith features: Neal ‘Kill’ Smith (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, synthesizer, drums & percussion), Peter ‘The Cat’ Catucci (bass guitar & backing vocals), Doug Wahlberg (lead guitar), Kevin Franklin (lead guitar), Bryan Morrell (lead guitar) and Pete ‘Keys’ Hickey (keyboards)

A forty year veteran in the music industry, Neal Smith’s vast achievements have finally been recognized with his recent and prestigious induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. “I am happiest for the fans of the original Alice Cooper Band,” says Neal. “As I said in my acceptance speech at our induction into the Hall of Fame, this was all about them and because of them. Without our faithful fans around the world, that night would never have happened. At the pinnacle of our success the only awards we ever received or cared about were in the shape of gold and platinum albums and that was only because of our fans. Even the established music business in the seventies shunned the Alice Cooper Band and never considered us for Grammys or any of the other music awards at the time. Living on the fringe of acceptability has always been the norm for me. Now I’ve been asked to become legitimate in the music world and that’s a role I’m very uncomfortable with, but KillSmith keeps me on the fringe in my comfort zone.”

Possibly one of the most anticipated reunions of the decade in the rock world recently transpired with the surviving members of the original Alice Cooper group and producer Bob Ezrin recording together for the first time in 37 years! “Well it was fantastic to work with everyone again in the same room,” says Neal. “Over the years I’ve seen Alice, Michael, Dennis and Bob many times all over the US and Canada. But it was in September 2010 when we were all finally together again in one location in a recording studio in New York City. In the studio we even set up a little memorial for Glen Buxton, it consisted of a Fender amp, a pack of cigarettes and a bottle of Seagram’s VO whiskey. So GB was with us there in spirit. We were all laughing, having a blast with the same insane sense of humor that we’ve always had – it was a great time. But when we got down to business and recording machines were running, the ever present chemistry was still there and the magic started happening again. That was the first time that all five of us, Alice, Michael, Dennis, Bob and I had been in the recording studio together since the ‘Billion Dollar Babies’ album was recorded in 1972/73. I hope we do it again!”

Plans to tour in support of the release of ‘KillSmith Two’ are currently in the works. “Along with Peter, Kevin, Doug and myself, we are currently in rehearsals working on a new KillSmith show right now. Any future show dates will be announced on my website,” says Neal.

Neal Smith ‘KillSmith Two’ is available from http://cdbaby.com/cd/nealsmith3

For more information: http://www.NealSmithRocks.com
http://www.facebook.com/NealSmithRocks

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

Leave a comment | posted in Alice Cooper Group, Interview, Neal Smith, Press Release

2011/10/22

OPEN – The New Opus By Jon Anderson

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Open Doors Will Always Open Hearts… OPEN – The New Opus By Jon Anderson

Digital Download Available October 25, 2011

Asheville, NC – Much to the excitement of music fans across the globe, on October 25, 2011 legendary YES vocalist Jon Anderson will release as a digital download an epic musical work entitled “OPEN.” A return to the long-form composition that Jon Anderson is best known for, (“Close To The Edge”, “Gates of Delirium”, “Revealing” and “Awaken”), OPEN is a 21-minute exhilarating musical journey; a pioneering effort that weaves intricate melodic and harmonic themes within a classical music framework whilst showcasing Anderson’s iconic vocals and timeless melodies throughout. In many ways OPEN is a return to Jon Anderson’s musical roots, as YES music continually flows through his veins, making it only natural to revisit now and again. Coupled with wonderful orchestration by his neighbor and good friend Stefan Podell, messages of peace, love, light and freedom are further explored within OPEN, making listening an uplifting and joyous experience!

” ‘Forever taken to that place of understanding,’ are the first lyrics of ‘OPEN’, as though I am always remembering my true musical journey. To create this work, I sat with my 19th Century guitar and strummed ideas last spring 2010. Songs just poured out of me that week, and before I knew it I had created a long form musical idea, and with the help of Stefan Podell’s powerful orchestration, we put together what is now ‘OPEN.’

It has 4 movements all intertwined, and seems to have a life of its own. For those who love this kind of music, I feel so happy to present it as one of many I hope to create over the coming years. My love ‘Janee’ has helped in production with her unique musical observations and her angel voice. I am so happy and thankful… Many Blessings.” Jon Anderson – October 2011

In other news, Jon Anderson is currently on tour in the US and Canada with fellow former YES member Rick Wakeman. The legendary duo performed a series of successful concerts in the UK in 2010 in support of their critically acclaimed CD release ‘The Living Tree’, and have now brought their highly anticipated show to America! In December 2011 Jon will be performing select solo concerts in South America. Go to http://www.jonanderson.com/tour.html for more information. Lastly, Jon Anderson’s latest CD release ‘Survival & Other Stories’ has been garnering rave reviews worldwide by critics and fans alike. You can purchase the CD at: http://www.amazon.com/Survival-Other-Stories-Jon-Anderson/dp/B004XIQHWU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308606761&sr=1-1

Jon Anderson’s OPEN is available as a digital download on October, 25, 2011 and can be obtained at:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/open-single/id474552662?ls=1

For more information: http://www.JonAnderson.com http://www.facebook.com/thejonanderson, http://www.olias-jewelry.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in Jon Anderson, Press Release