2016/07/25

Dutch Prog Legend Arjen Anthony Lucassen Re-Releases Rare Out of Print Album “Strange Hobby” OUT NOW!

By glassonyonpr

ARJEN - STRANGE HOBBY med res

For Immediate Release

Dutch Prog Legend Arjen Anthony Lucassen Re-Releases Rare Out of Print Album “Strange Hobby” OUT NOW!

London, UK – STRANGE HOBBY was previously released in 1996 WITHOUT SAYING WHO THE ARTIST WAS! It can now be announced it was legendary Dutch prog artist ARJEN ANTHONY LUCASSEN! Arjen Anthony Lucassen is a Dutch progressive metal/rock songwriter, singer, multi-instrumentalist and record producer, best known for his long-running progressive opera project titled Ayreon.

“Strange Hobby” has been OUT OF PRINT for OVER A DECADE and is now a much sought after collectors’ item. This edition includes FOUR bonus tracks which have not been available on CD previously.

Of this re-release, Arjen said “Back in 1996 I had so much fun recording Strange Hobby! It was great to take a break from recording my complex, bombastic Ayreon prog-extravaganzas and blow off some steam blasting out these rocky cover versions of my favorite songs from the sixties. I hope you’ll enjoy listening to this psychedelic blast from the past as much as I enjoyed recording it! Groovy!”

This re-release of “Strange Hobby”, the first on Arjen’s own Aluca Music imprint via Cherry Red, is likely to be a BIG SURPRISE to many of his fans!

To purchase:
Amazon: http://geni.us/kH3Rt8R
Direct from Cherry Red: http://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/strange-hobby/

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

Leave a comment | posted in Arjen Anthony Lucassen, Press Release

2016/07/21

Bay Area Music Ensemble ‘On Dolphin’ To Release Debut Album “LAYERS” on Vinyl – July 22, 2016

By glassonyonpr

OnDolphin_digitalfile med res

For Immediate Release

Bay Area Music Ensemble ‘On Dolphin’ To Release Debut Album “LAYERS” on Vinyl – July 22, 2016

Music to take you out of the grind and into the flow

San Francisco – Bay Area music ensemble On Dolphin will be releasing their debut album “LAYERS” on vinyl on July 22, 2016! Fronted by Melissa Lyn, the band’s music has been described as “Indie rock for people that are hopeful and curious.” The band’s new album explores the evolutions of ideas from curiosity and experience to beliefs and knowledge. And, finding comfort within the structures of family and community while making space to be.

After years of playing solo acoustic shows, Melissa dusted off her electric guitar and teamed up with her husband, engineer and producer Ryan Clark to create On Dolphin’s debut full length album “LAYERS” to be released on vinyl July 22, 2016. The band’s influences include Spoon, Aimee Mann, Cat Power, Billie Holiday, Jets to Brazil, Belle & Sebastian & Des Ark.

“The sounds range from straight forward rock on the opening track ‘more good days’, the thick drum beat and dreamy soundscape of ‘dance in the kitchen’, to the textured and orchestral dynamics of ‘New York’ and title track ‘Layers’.” – FalafelRockNews

“LAYERS” – This album was born in a barn – Melissa Lyn

“Fresh out of a relationship and laid off from my day job, I left the city on a series of travels and adventures, landing in a Barn in Northern California. I was settling into my new home, reflecting on poems and sounds from my trip to Africa, when I finished writing the title track ‘Layers’ and the following song ‘Worth the Drive’. I was exploring the contrasting layers of traditions and comfort amidst new beliefs and landscapes.

“In The Barn, I was surrounded by 360 degrees of nature, with horses downstairs and chickens outside. It was peaceful and inspiring and I was writing a lot. The songs ‘Dance in the Kitchen’ and ‘Inventing Fences’ are stories of my assimilation into the new space and the community that was quickly growing around me. I became very active in the local music scene attending weekly open mics. One night, at Bazaar Cafe I met Ryan Clark. It was a pleasant meeting, though neither of us predicted that we would marry exactly one year later.

“Ryan was building his recording business and helped me prepare and complete my first solo EP ‘Roads’. We set up a part-time recording studio in the bedroom at The Barn. Friends and band mates joined us for retreat-style recording. ‘Together’ and ‘Laugh it Off ‘are a tribute to a community of musicians working together to bring songs and ideas to life.

“We married and moved into a tiny room in the city of San Francisco, a huge transition from the country space that The Barn provided. Writing continued to be the best way to identify new feelings and reflect on joys and pains. ‘Slowdown’ and ‘More Good Days’ represent the challenges of a crowded city life. I made space for myself in Yogic chanting and joined the Vak Choir project. ‘Let a Little Light’ was born as I explored my breath and sound in a new way.

“We found more space in a larger apartment down the road and began building our life, and this album, together. Ryan is an amazing producer and multi-instrumentalist. His arrangements and vision really brought these songs to life.

“To say that our friends’ vocal and instrumental talents added color and texture to these recordings is an understatement. These folks add color and texture to our lives. The support in the San Francisco songwriting community is like super food to a developing musician. The contrasting layers culminate in New York. A ‘coming home’ song about Love & Frustration, Wanderlust & Home.”

“Worthy of a Quentin Tarantino film, ‘Worth The Drive,’ by On Dolphin is worth the listen.” – Indie Shuffle

On Dolphin is:

Melissa Lyn – guitar & vocals: An active member of the SF songwriter scene since 2008, Melissa Lyn hosted and curated, Songwriter Saturdays at the Exit Theatre. She has booked and shared the stage with over 150 bay area songwriters and bands between 2011 and 2015. She released her debut solo EP Roads in 2012 and started On Dolphin in 2015.

Anderai Maldonado – bass: Anderai has performed in numerous musical projects from ska to jazz… From Puerto Rico to San Francisco. Crafting bass lines that move you.

Nathan Dennen – keys: Born and raised in the small country town of Oakdale, California, Nathan started learning piano at the age of six. Though he took a couple years off to teach himself guitar he eventually fell back into his old piano playing ways and started writing songs. His music has been described as a mash-up of old saloon style, mixed with a little jazz and a touch of folk funk; if such a thing exists. http://www.nathandennen.com

Ryan Clark – drums: Ryan Clark is a Bay Area music producer and recording engineer. He’s a muti-instrumentalist currently playing drums in On Dolphin, Say Disaster, and Invisible End. He is also the singer, songwriter and guitar player for Obstacle Course.
http://obstaclecourse.bandcamp.com

In closing On Dolphin has this to impart, “Peel away the layers, live truth!”

On Dolphin’s release show:
Friday July 22nd – 9 PM
Neck of the Woods
406 Clement St., San Francisco
Tickets: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1244535?_ga=1.248226055.1685126366.1468606901

To purchase On Dolphin’s “LAYERS”: http://www.ondolphin.bandcamp.com

Official website: http://www.ondolphin.com
contact: ondolphinmusic@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/on_dolphin/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ondolphin
Tumblr: http://ondolphin.tumblr.com ;
Twitter: https://twitter.com/on_dolphin
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuiAwShb7O0X_AxtTbDV0KB6YQ_SXoxKx
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/on_dolphin
Bandcamp: ondolphin.bandcamp.com

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

Leave a comment | posted in On Dolphin, Press Release

2016/07/20

YES Legend Jon Anderson To Receive Prog God Award From Progressive Music Awards!

By glassonyonpr

Jon Anderson PROG cover

For Immediate Release

YES Legend Jon Anderson To Receive Prog God Award From Progressive Music Awards!

London, UK – Music legend Jon Anderson will be presented with the Prog God award at this year’s Progressive Music Awards, in association with currencies.co.uk, which will be held at London’s Underglobe on September 1, 2016! This very special honor is awarded to musical innovators within the world of progressive rock music and sees Anderson joining such music luminaries as Rick Wakeman, Ian Anderson, Peter Gabriel and Tony Banks, in collecting the prestigious award.

Says Jon “After all these years, it’s just wonderful to be getting this very special award. Music has guided me along to this point in my life and I’m forever excited about the new and progressive musical adventures I am given by the gods of music. Making music is like breathing to me, and I am blessed to be able to create music every day. A very grateful and humble thank you.”

Read about the Prog God award here:
http://teamrock.com/news/2016-07-15/jon-anderson-is-the-2016-prog-god

YES’s original singer/songwriter for 35 years, Jon Anderson has had a successful solo career, which includes working with such notable music artists as Vangelis, Kitaro, and Milton Nascimento. Jon recently joined musical forces with jazz violin legend Jean Luc Ponty to form the AndersonPonty Band. The duo released their critically acclaimed CD/DVD titled “Better Late Than Never” in 2015 and have completed two successful tours of North America. Jon’s new album with Swedish guitarist Roine Stolt titled “Invention of Knowledge” was released on InsideOut Records on July 8, 2016 and it’s getting amazing rave reviews worldwide! His latest venture is reuniting with YES alumni Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman – ARW.

Catch Jon Anderson on tour with ARW this Fall 2016!
ARW official website: http://www.arw-tour.com/
ARW FB page: https://www.facebook.com/ARWBand/

For more information:
Jon Anderson official website: http://www.jonanderson.com
AndersonPonty Band official website: http://www.andersonpontyband.com/
Jon Anderson & Roine Stolt FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AndersonStolt/

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

Leave a comment | posted in Jon Anderson, Press Release

2016/07/19

Prog Duo Middlesong Release New EP “Directions” Feat. YES Legend Billy Sherwood

By glassonyonpr

middlesong guitars

For Immediate Release

Prog Duo Middlesong Release New EP “Directions” Feat. YES Legend Billy Sherwood

Buffalo, NY – Prog duo Middlesong has release a new three-song EP titled “Directions” featuring YES legend Billy Sherwood. With Joe Schneider (vocals, guitar, keyboards) and Phil Tomczak (keyboards, guitars), Middlesong has heavy Prog and Classic Rock influence, along with hints of Folk, Pop and Americana. Middlesong’s eclectic sources produce a universal sound that musicians and non-musicians will appreciate!

The three new tracks (“Directions in D Minor (Make Sure That You Learn)”, “See This Through”, “Rain to Sun”) were started at Middlesong Studios in Hamburg NY, followed by mixing and production by Billy Sherwood at his studio in California. Billy, who plays bass, drums, keyboards, guitar on the tracks, is a renowned producer, musician and performer, and is currently the bass player for the progressive rock band YES. Billy has worked as producer and engineer for countless artists in the rock and progressive rock genres. His musicianship and talent is respected world-wide.

“It was great fun working on the music with the guys, I’m very proud to have been a part of it all and very much looking forward to having it now get out there for everyone to hear and enjoy.”- Billy Sherwood

Says Phil and Joe, “We both love to write music. We were surprised and very pleased by the way the songs evolved. Never having worked together previously as songwriters, we soon found that the music seemed to write itself, and took off into directions all their own (which led us to the title for the EP). Nothing was off the table. We allowed all of our influences to enter into the songwriting process. Billy Sherwood was then able to polish and bring the songs to life while preserving our original tunes.”

For all three songs in the EP, Joe and Phil wanted to write songs with a solid musical structure, but take some chances along the way. Most of their songwriting begins with a nylon and steel string guitar, developing a musical theme, and taking shape from there (the “Middlesong Method”).

“In particular, with ‘Directions in D Minor (Make Sure That You Learn)’, we explored the key of D minor, while providing the listeners with different styles within the same song – a classic Prog offering. Each section of the song represents a stage of one’s life; chasing the musical dream; wrestling with the muse.

“With ‘See This Through’, our intent was to write a song that everybody could relate to, tapping their foot along the way. A fun part of the song for us was setting the scene for an old Western saloon in the bridge and lead section – providing a change from the main structure of the song, and a bit of an unexpected adventure. The theme of the song itself is one of perseverance, and speaks to both the whole of humanity, as well as to the individual.”

“Rain to Sun” is a great example of the “Middlesong Method”. The song came together quickly, with an instrumental lead melody written by Joe, and an initial arrangement of strings and choir voices written by Phil. In this song (as well as in “Direction in D Minor”), they left plenty of room for producer and performer Billy Sherwood. “In ‘Rain to Sun’, we were thrilled by his meandering bass line that complimented the dual guitar tracks. Billy precisely interpreted and felt the pulse of all of our songs with his bass and percussion.”

Joe Schneider and Phil Tomczak formed Middlesong in 2015. It didn’t take long to realize the synergy and soul of their collaborative songwriting! Joe is a veteran of the performance stage. Augmented by his guitar playing, Joe’s vocals soar with clarity, smoothness of texture, and deep feeling. Joe finds inspiration from singer-songwriters such as Lennon-McCartney, Tom Petty and Billy Joel. He has great, natural instincts for melody and harmony, and a gift for writing lyrics that touch our souls in just the right place. Phil’s love for music stems from the piano, influenced by the likes of Rick Wakeman and Keith Emerson. His versatility extends to the guitar, which plays a significant role in Middlesong’s songwriting and distinctive sound. Phil’s musicianship evokes imagery and will carry you along on the clear road ahead, or sweep you off into a surprising new direction.

As well as Billy Sherwood, Middlesong has worked with renowned mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum. The duo are currently in the studio writing and arranging the remaining tracks to fill out the complete, debut album to be released sometime in 2017.

In closing Phil and Joe have this to impart, “We appreciate your listening and at the purest level, we hope you enjoy our music!”

OFFICIAL SITE: http://www.middlesong.com
Email Contact: middlesong@middlesong.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/middlesong/
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/middlesong
ReverbNation: https://www.reverbnation.com/middlesong

To purchase:
CDBaby (main links for purchasing):
Full “Directions” EP and Individual Song Download: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/middlesong4
See This Through: http://cdbaby.com/cd/middlesong2
Rain to Sun: http://cdbaby.com/cd/middlesong
Directions in D Minor (Make Sure That You Learn): http://cdbaby.com/cd/middlesong3

SoundCloud:
See This Through: https://soundcloud.com/middlesong/see-this-through
Rain to Sun: https://soundcloud.com/middlesong/rain-to-sun
Directions in D Minor (Make Sure That You Learn): https://soundcloud.com/middlesong/directions-in-d-minor-make-sure-that-you-learn

ReverbNation:
See This Through: https://www.reverbnation.com/middlesong/song/26150274-see-this-through
Rain to Sun: https://www.reverbnation.com/middlesong/song/26150292-rain-to-sun
Directions in D Minor (Make Sure That You Learn): https://www.reverbnation.com/middlesong/song/26150294-directions-in-d-minor-make-sure

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

Leave a comment | posted in Billy Sherwood, Middlesong, Press Release

2016/07/17

Dutch Music Legends Focus Release New Album “Focus 8.5 / Beyond The Horizon” OUT NOW!

By glassonyonpr

FINAL COVER WITH LETTERING SHARP med res

For Immediate Release

Dutch Music Legends Focus Release New Album “Focus 8.5 / Beyond The Horizon” OUT NOW!

London, UK – Dutch music legends Focus are known around the world for their iconic albums, including the hits HOCUS POCUS, SYLVIA and HOUSE OF THE KING. After the reunion of Focus and the release of the Focus 8 album, the band toured the world and was introduced to new musical styles and influences. The line-up on this album features THIJS VAN LEER, PIERRE VAN DER LINDEN, BOBBY JACOBS and JAN DUMÉE.

The sessions for the album were all recorded in between South American tour commitments during 2005, and every track is a previously unreleased composition by the members of Focus or producer MARVIO CIRIBELLI.

Thijs van Leer said of the album: “For Focus it was a thrill to first jam with Marvio and Marcio in a club in Niteroi and then end up in Rio de Janeiro in order to compose and record these beauties. Having one of the best drummers in Europe with Pierre van der Linden and one of South America’s best drummers with Marcio Bahia on the same album makes the world a better and happier place! Here they are!”

The album features all-star Brazilian musicians including ARTHUR MAIA and MARIO SEVE joining Focus on new recordings, and vice versa, plus a drum duet with MARCIO BAHIA…as musicianship once again goes Beyond the Horizon…

To purchase:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/ZTRWj3
iTunes: http://geni.us/RDPEAsO

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

Leave a comment | posted in Focus, Press Release

2016/07/14

Rare Release Feat. Legendary Guru Guru Founding Members Mani Neumeier and Uli Trepte “Guru Guru Groove Band – The Birth of Krautrock 1969” Now Available!

By glassonyonpr

0253 guru-guru med res

For Immediate Release

Rare Release Feat. Legendary Guru Guru Founding Members Mani Neumeier and Uli Trepte
“Guru Guru Groove Band – The Birth of Krautrock 1969” Now Available!

Los Angeles – A newly discovered gem finally sees the light of day courtesy of Guru Guru founding member of Mani Neumeier! Titled “Guru Guru Groove Band – The Birth of Krautrock 1969”, this historically important release was recorded in a small studio in Heidelberg Germany 1969 with Neumeier and future Guru Guru member Uli Trepte, as well as a host of guest musicians, performing a collective free style modal improvisation that would form the foundation of many Krautrock bands to come!

“It was the year 1967, when Mani Neumeier and Uli Trepte left the Free Jazz Trio Irene Schweizer Group. It was the time of a musical revolution, and a sense of change was in the air. When they first heard Jimi Hendrix on the radio, they were so turned on by his tripped out sound that they decided they wanted to create something radical that hadn’t been heard or done before. Drawing more musical inspirations from the likes of The Mothers of Invention, Karl Heinz Stockhausen, Indian music, Albert Ayer, and Pink Floyd, Mani Neumeier and Uli Trepte developed the concept of collective free style modal improvisation. Each musician and instrument was supposed to play an equally important role. They had a huge sound, which was dominated by the use of two full Marshall stacks and Mani Neumeier’s fluent and inventive drum style. In the first half of 1968, they formed their own sound. The first studio session took place in Heidelberg, Germany. It was a sound expedition recorded on LSD, with several guests on sax, voice and guitar. The band told the engineer that they wanted to play all night. The music was fed through an echo machine to add to the spaced out feel. Now forty years later, Mani Neumeier discovered these very recordings, which can be heard on this album for the very first time! All tracks were recorded two years prior to the first GURU GURU album UFO, which came out in 1970. They were also recorded five years before anyone used the term Krautrock. So here it is, the birth of Krautrock! You better believe it!” – Jurgen Engler

“Guru Guru Groove Band – The Birth of Krautrock 1969” is available on both CD and a special 200 gram white label, hand stamped vinyl pressing!

To purchase:
Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/GuruGuruGrooveBandCD
Buy the Vinyl: http://flyt.it/GuruGuruGrooveBandLP
Buy the digital version: http://flyt.it/GuruGuruGrooveBandDig

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Guru Guru, Guru Guru Groove Band, Mani Neumeier, Press Release, Uli Trepte

2016/07/13

Rare Albums By GUNHILL feat. John Lawton “Nightheat / One Over The Eight” Now Re-Released and OUT NOW!

By glassonyonpr

Gunhill med

For Immediate Release

Rare Albums By GUNHILL feat. John Lawton “Nightheat / One Over The Eight” Now Re-Released and OUT NOW!

London, UK – GUNHILL is a band from the 90’s which featured JOHN LAWTON, the former lead singer of URIAH HEEP. This twofer collects together the cassette / fan club ONLY release ONE OVER THE EIGHT and the long since out of print and VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE to find second album NIGHTHEAT!

Both discs feature bonus tracks with the intention of making this set the COMPREHENSIVE collection of all the Gunhill studio recordings!

This re-release has been prepared with the full input of JOHN LAWTON personally and has had a 2016 remaster.

“These two CDs are part of my musical history when I played together with some fine musicians, some quite young and some a bit more experienced. It was an opportunity to cover some tracks that I look back on as really great songs and a few original tracks that have stood the test of time.” – John Lawton

Amazon 2 CD set: http://geni.us/bRI2uzB
One Over The Eight on iTunes: http://geni.us/Q00UXvr
Nightheat on iTunes: http://geni.us/PYNQ

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

Leave a comment | posted in Gunhill, John Lawton, Press Release

2016/07/11

Sharon Hendrix Releases Her Retro-Summertime Fun “FRAZZELMATIC” Video

By glassonyonpr

Sharon Hendrix Frazzelmatic med res

For Immediate Release

Sharon Hendrix Releases Her Retro-Summertime Fun “FRAZZELMATIC” Video
Talented Back-Up Singer for Bob Dylan, Elton John, Tom Jones, Barry Manilow, Grace Slick & Starship, Olivia Newton-John and Others

This non-stop grandma wants more!

Los Angeles – After years of working just 20 feet from stardom Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix has stepped into the spotlight. Sharon as performed in over 8,000 shows throughout her successful career and has been singing backup on recording sessions and stages across the world with top names including Bob Dylan, Elton John, Tom Jones, Grace Slick & Starship, Olivia Newton-John, George Duke, Dusty Springfield, Freddie Hubbard, Natalie Cole, Harry Chapin, Mac Davis, Billy Cobham, Michael White, Shirley Bassey and so many other notable musical talents.

1n 1985 Sharon and Barry Manilow recorded the chart-topping duet, “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” that appeared on his best-selling “Manilow” album. In 2010 they reunited for his residence at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas and again in 2015 and 2016 she joined Manilow’s “One Last Time!” farewell tour until the final performance at The O2 in London in June.

Now with the globe-trotting behind her the industrious Ms. Hendrix is planning her solo career launch and working with producer, Dan Voss Jr. creating new music for a future multi-genre album. That album will include some rock and pop, some blues and jazz and even a little bit of country as well her latest single, “FRAZZELMATIC” the retro-summertime fun track being introduced through a colorful and entertaining new video.

“FRAZZELMATIC” features a talented group of veteran musicians, a supporting band she plans to tour with this coming fall and winter. Sharon’s smooth vocal style slides in, out and over a contemporary beat spiced with exciting percussion, a classic horn section and a funky and infectious guitar groove. It’s her homage to Top 40 radio, vinyl records and pop culture movie images reminiscent of a “Groovy, baby” time and place.

Sharon Hendrix began her career as “Muffy” Hendrix singing in the church and school choirs and by the time she reached her teens was part of The Young Americans, an international touring company of 30 singers from all across the United States. Over the next two years Sharon toured the Far East twice, performed on the legendary Ed Sullivan Show and the Kraft Music Hall and worked on various TV specials and commercials. Sharon earned a music scholarship to Chapman University and received her show business degree on the Las Vegas strip on the stage with iconic superstar entertainers including Debbie Reynolds and Sammy Davis, Jr.

When not working Sharon lives in southern California, she has three accomplished daughters and is a very proud grandmother. She maintains a rigorous daily work-out regimen that keeps her healthy and happy in mind and spirit and in the top condition demanded of adventurous, jet-setting entertainers and the seasoned veteran is not yet ready to stop.

See “Frazzelmatic” video here:

To purchase: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/sharonmuffyhendrix ;

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

Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix records exclusively for:
Voss Records
4254 Harbour Island Lane
Oxnard, CA 93035
Phone: 805 469-4074 / eMail: danvossjr@gmail.com

CONTACT: Management:
Harold Childs & Ernie Campagna
Soundboard Marketing
8491 Sunset Blvd, # 174
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Phone: 323-692-1097 / eMail: soundboardMKT@aol.com

Visit Sharon at: http://www.sharonhendrix.net and follow her on Facebook at Sharon Hendrix Music

Leave a comment | posted in Press Release, Sharon Hendrix

2016/07/10

The King Of Funky Weirdness GARY WILSON Returns With A Brand New Album Plus A Rare 1967 Recording!

By glassonyonpr

2263 GaryWilson_FridayNight5x5 med res

For Immediate Release

The King Of Funky Weirdness GARY WILSON Returns With A Brand New Album Plus A Rare 1967 Recording!

Los Angeles, CA – Get ready for another alt-funk classic filled with experimental sounds, avant garde grooves, and demented love songs from one of music’s most critically adored mavericks, underground legend Gary Wilson! Friday Night With Gary Wilson will be released on both CD and vinyl, and it follows a career-renewing, hugely praised album, last year’s Alone With Gary Wilson, as well as an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel supporting Odd Future member Earl Sweatshirt! The new album features Wilson’s incredibly catchy, low-fi funk-pop such as the deliriously upbeat “You’re The Coolest Girl Tonight” and the superbly hip “Linda.” Friday Night arrives July 15 courtesy of Cleopatra Records!

Track List:
1. A Tree Cries In The Wind
2. I Want To Hold Your Hand Tonight
3. I’m Going To Take You To A Thousand Dreams
4. You’re The Coolest Girl Tonight
5. Sick Trip On Friday Night
6. We’ll Dance Into The Stars
7. Like A Scene From A Movie Long Gone
8. The Mermaid Song
9. Soon I’ll Be Kissing Sandy
10. Linda
11. You Made Me Feel My Misery
12. I Thought Of You Last Night
13. I’ll Make You My Dream Girl
14. Sometimes I Cry Late At Night

Also available on Cleopatra Records is a rare, unreleased gem of Gary Wilson’s first band, the garage psych group Lord Fuzz! Recorded in 1967 and sounding like The Stooges meet Pink Floyd, this incredible recording is now available on a limited edition 7” vinyl.

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/GaryWilsonFridayCD
Buy the Vinyl: http://flyt.it/GaryWilsonFridayLP
Buy the digital version: http://flyt.it/GaryWilsonFridayDig
Buy the Lord Fuzz 7”: http://flyt.it/GaryWilsonLordFuzz

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

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

Leave a comment | posted in Gary Wilson, Press Release

2016/07/08

Prog Keyboardist/Composer Leon Alvarado To Release New Concept Album “The Future Left Behind” Feat. YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood!

By glassonyonpr

LATFLB Sq med res

For Immediate Release

Prog Keyboardist/Composer Leon Alvarado To Release New Concept Album “The Future Left Behind”
Feat. YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood!

Houston, TX – Hot on the heels of his critically acclaimed third album “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”, keyboardist/composer Leon Alvarado will be releasing his new album “The Future Left Behind” on July 30, 2016! The highly anticipated new concept album features guest appearances by YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood, as well as Johnny Bruhn (CIRCA:) and Steve Thamer.

According to Leon, “The idea of creating a concept album out of instrumental progressive rock music had appealed to me ever since I first heard Rick Wakeman’s ‘Journey To The Centre of The Earth’. What I found difficult was to create all the individual pieces that would unify the set of ideas into a single concept. It meant for me to come up with a story, some music and a set of visuals that together would form an inclusive experience. I started by working on music that had more of a cinematic feel than my usual, meaning that when played, it evokes certain imagery in the listener’s mind.”

Says Leon, “My goal was to create something that would combine the artwork and the music into one cohesive vision. I thought that basing my project on a sci-fi story would be very fitting and would give me the necessary creative space to make music that entices the imagination, like what Vangelis’, Rick Wakeman’s and YES’ music do for me.”

Billy Sherwood had this to say about his participation on the album, “It was my pleasure to be a part of Leon’s new record… I had a blast working on it and I’m sure fans of great music are going to enjoy this new record!”

Leon’s first album, “Plays Genesis and Other Original Stuff,” drew on his strongest musical influences, primarily, the many styles in Genesis’s lengthy career. By the time Leon released his second album, “Strangers in Strange Places,” he had refined his method and his vision, and it’s the audience who wins. “Strangers” features Brand X’s John Goodsall on guitar and the legendary drummer Bill Bruford (YES, King Crimson, Earthwork) and reveals an intertwining of progressive rock and ambient textural sound that blossoms in, “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”. For this third release, he enlisted the talents of Trey Gunn (King Crimson) and Jerry Marotta (Peter Gabriel, Hall and Oats).

And now, much to the excitement of Prog fans worldwide, Leon is set to release his latest masterpiece, “The Future Left Behind.” In regards to the guest performers, Leon explains, “To help the story along and properly set the pieces of music we recorded some narrated bits. I wanted a voice with a large presence. A deep resonating voice that more or less commands to be heard. Steve Thamer is a Canadian voice-over talent who majored in Classical Theatre and has work doing voice-overs for audio books, films and animated shorts.

“As for Billy Sherwood, I envisioned his involvement in the project from the outset. He played a big part in the recording and helped me in elevating the music as a whole. Billy is very down to earth and has to be one of the hardest working musicians I have ever met. He is also extremely proficient and doesn’t waste any time when it comes to getting things down musically.

“During one of my visits to California I went to see Billy’s other band CIRCA:. The guitar player was Johnny Bruhn. I’ve seen many people perform YES music before but Johnny’s guitar playing captured the feel of it so well that it left an impression on me. When this album was conceived, I knew I would have a place for him.

“I have the greatest respect for all the people involved in the project. I must admit that when it came to working with Rick Wakeman, I was a bit nervous at first. But in the end, it was one of those ‘pinch me’ moments that worked brilliantly. It’s not everyday that you have one of your musical heroes performing on a piece you composed.

“The last person to touch the material was Andy Jackson. This is my third project working with him and I couldn’t be happier about it. Andy is better known as Pink Floyd’s engineer of 30 years and his work has been nominated twice for Grammys. He won two British Hi-Fi Awards for his work with Pink Floyd and was a co-producer for ‘The Endless River’ album. What I really like about Andy’s work is his personal taste for sound. To me he is truly a magician at the controls.”

For the fans, although also available as a digital download, the CD version of the album has the most to offer. Leon envisioned the album to be something more than just a set of musical pieces. Instead, he immerses the listener in the world he has conceived through music, story and imagery, and allows their own imagination to fill in the details, creating a very personalized experience for each. “It is the most ambitious album I have created so far. ‘The Future Left Behind’ speaks to those who like Science-fiction stories and futuristic artwork. Like many of my projects, my approach is always to create something that I would want to see.”

Tracks:

1. PREFACE 1:16
2. LAUNCH OVERTURE 6:10
3. A VOYAGE… 0:49
4. JOURNEY INTO SPACE 2:39
5. WEIGHTLESS 2:24
6. HARD CHOICES 0:50
7. THE ONES LEFT BEHIND 6:14
8. LIFE IN THE OUTSIDE 0:55
9. AMONG THE STARS 6:06
10. MUCH ADO ABOUT… 0:36
11. IN OUR QUIET ORBIT 6:36
12. TO BE LOVED 2:43
13. A SILVER LINING 0:39
14. THE STAR SEEKERS 3:28

Leon Alvarado: Keyboards, sequencing, drums, percussion, launch control voices
Billy Sherwood: Lead and rhythm guitars on all except for “To Be Loved”
Rick Wakeman: Moog solo on “Launch Overture” and extra keyboards
Johnny Bruhns: Acoustic guitar on “To Be Loved”
Steve Thamer: Narration

Produced and mixed by: Leon Alvarado
Guitar tracks produced by: Billy Sherwood
Mastered by: Andy Jackson / Tube Mastering
All songs by Leon Alvarado
except “To Be Loved” by Johnny Bruhns and Leon Alvarado
Based on “The Future Left Behind”, an original short story by Leon Alvarado
Design and Illustrations: Synergy Design / LA

To purchase:
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/leonalvarado5
http://mrrmusic.com/leon-alvarado/
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/leon-alvarado/id304356695

For more information:
http://www.melodicrevolution.com
http://www.leonplaysmusic.com

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

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