2023/08/03

JJ Chardeau’s Rock Opera “Magical Music Man” Adds a Second Album with Ombres And Lumières Feat. Members of King Crimson, XTC, Spirit, Supertramp, ELO and Others – OUT NOW!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

JJ Chardeau’s Rock Opera “Magical Music Man” Adds a Second Album with Ombres And Lumières Feat. Members of King Crimson, XTC, Spirit, Supertramp, ELO and Others – OUT NOW!

Featuring Dave Gregory (XTC), Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson), Danny Seraphine and Jason Scheff (Chicago), Mark Andes (Spirit), John McFee (Doobie Brothers), Jerry Goodman (Mahavishnu Orchestra), John Helliwell (Supertramp), John Jorgenson (The Hellecasters), Eric Troyer (Electric Light Orchestra), Jimmy Haun (Arc of Light)

Ombres & Lumières (Shadows & Lights) is the brand new album by Chardeau, a.k.a. The Magical Musical Man. The French artist and composer continues his dreamy and musical trip around the world, started with the previous In Terra Cognita ? in 2019.

This second part (out of 4 planned volumes) is dedicated to Western Europe in 14 tracks, mostly instrumental, served by around fifty musicians, vocalists and guests. The production of this new album lasted three years, in conditions somewhat disturbed by the Covid pandemic and its effects. But the result is miraculous.

Among the guests who have participated to Ombres & Lumières: Danny Seraphine and Jason Scheff (Chicago), Mark Andes (Spirit), John McFee (Doobie Brothers), Jerry Goodman (Mahavishnu Orchestra), John Helliwell (Supertramp), John Jorgenson (The Hellecasters), Eric Troyer (Electric Light Orchestra), Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson), Jimmy Haun (Arc of Life) and Dave Gregory (XTC).

JJ Chardeau said of the release: “With the help of my friends I’ve been able to continue my magical musical journey with this second album. The love for the ‘In Terra Cognita?’ album from fans has made it all worthwhile and I hope everyone will enjoy this new album!”

To purchase:
Amazon CD: https://geni.us/JJOandMcd
Apple Music: https://geni.us/JJam
Spotify: https://geni.us/JJsp
The album is also available from Cherry Red directly: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/artist/jj-chardeau/

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

Leave a comment | posted in JJ Chardeau, Press Release

2023/08/02

Legendary Violinist Darryl Way Releases Physical Copies of the Album ‘The Rock Artist’s Progress’ Alongside The Novel of the Same Name!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Legendary Violinist Darryl Way Releases Physical Copies of the Album The Rock Artist’s Progress Alongside The Novel of the Same Name!

Features guest vocals from Steve Hogarth of Marillion!

Legendary Curved Air violinist Darryl Way has launched a physical version of The Rock Artist’s Progress album, which was only previously available via digital download.

The music for the album was inspired by the novel of the same name, written by music journalist Charles Shorwell, which charts the brief yet eventful music career of the band Magenta Aura (Daniel Luckham, Brian Ester, Martin Sudley, Steve Matlake). Magenta Aura were a little-known cult psychedelic rock band who came to prominence in 1968 as part of the underground counterculture “Summer of Love” London scene. Although they were alleged to have recorded a debut album it was never released and  little or no trace of the band could ever be found. Shorwell’s book tells the story of the band’s success and then downfall at the hands of an unforgiving music business.

Violinist and composer Darryl Way was so inspired by the book, much of which resonated with his own experiences in music, that he decided to write and record the album which Magenta Aura should have made. Whilst the story which inspired the album began more than 50 years ago, Way’s music has its feet firmly planted in the here and now and in-cludes a guest vocal from Steve Hogarth (Marillion).

Now, for the first time, the book and album are available to purchase together.

photo by Guy Harrop

The Rock Artist’s Progress by Darryl Way/Magenta Aura is released on Spirit of Unicorn Music, via Cherry Red Records and can be purchased via Cherry Red Records: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/magenta-aura-the-rock-artists-progress-cd/

The Rock Artist’s Progress novel by Charles Shorwell can be purchased, along with the CD at Burning Shed:
https://burningshed.com/magenta-aura_the-rock-artists-progress_book-cd-bundle

TRACK LISTING
1. Life
2. Guiding Star
3. Chaconne
4. Back On The Road
5. Morpheus
6. Traveller
7. Time Machine
8. Here We Go
9. Chelsea Girl
10. Mods and Rockers

For more information, contact: Sarah Ewing or Steve Cadman, TASK Agency Ltd, for Spirit of Unicorn Music
sarah@taskagency.co.uk  07947 400 510
steve@taskagency.co.uk. 07521 272 397

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

Leave a comment | posted in Darryl Way, Press Release

2023/08/01

Prog Ensemble ANYONE To Release 6th Album “Miracles In The Nothingness” – Fall 2023

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Prog Ensemble ANYONE To Release 6th Album “Miracles In The Nothingness” – Fall 2023

TogethermenT Records is proud to announce the release of the Sixth studio album by the critically acclaimed prog rock band ANYONE. The album is entitled “Miracles In The Nothingness” and will be released in the Fall of 2023. The album will be available in download, streaming and CD on over 200 digital distributors including iTunes, Spotify and Amazon.

This new DOUBLE CONCEPT album continues the highly progressive direction set forth on the critically acclaimed 2021 release “In Humanity” with founder Riz Story performing all instrumentation and vocals in an unprecedented display of virtuosity, as well as producing, mixing and mastering. Featuring a guest lead vocal appearance by YES vocalist (and founding ANYONE member) Jon Davison on the song “Symptom Of The Miracle.” BILLBOARD MAGAZINE said, “ANYONE has invented a new breed of rock, quite literally.” HERBIE HANCOCK said, “I’ve never heard anybody else do that – play all those instruments on that level.”

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO PREVIEW: https://www.anyoneden.net/miracles-in-the-nothingness

Says Riz, “This album is a meditation on the miracle of existing. It is a contemplation of the surreal reality that we find ourselves in as we float through a borderless expanse on a dust grain which has somehow come to life. Like the prior two albums the setting is a world in full collapse. And so, it is a bittersweet mixture of joy and bliss at the gift of existing intermixed with the tragedy of watching humanity destroy the planet and everything on it. This music is uncompromising and I’ve endeavored to push the limits of my creativity and instrumental capabilities with no considerations regarding its commerciality or accessibility – It is not meant for the casual listener, but rather those listeners who seek truly progressive music. ”

ANYONE was formed by Riz Story, along with Jon Davison (Yes) and Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters) in the early 90’s in Laguna Beach, California. Hawkins and Davison were replaced by the time the band signed with RoadRunner Records in 2000. Their self-titled debut album received much critical acclaim including a 5-star rating from Rolling Stone. In October of 2016 the single “Fly Away” was featured in Story’s debut feature film “A Winter Rose” and became the most listened to rock song in America on digital formats, hitting #1 on the DRT National Airplay Rock Chart. The 2020 album release of “On the ending earth…” was met with widespread critical acclaim. The 2021 release of “In Humanity” catapulted ANYONE into the prog elite with critics hailing this singular achievement by Riz Story as a “Masterpiece” and a “Magnum Opus”.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM FOR “IN HUMANITY”:

“RIZ STORY with ANYONE has released the album of the year, nothing less!” – Alain Massard, profilprog.com

“5 Out of 5 Stars! IN HUMANITY represents a magnificent solo effort of virtuosity in terms of performance, production, mixing and mastering on the part of RIZ STORY… transcendent inspiration animates the entire album, combined with great skill and technique.” – Didier Gonzalez, Highlands Magazine

“A turning point in ANYONE’s career that subtly sets a new benchmark in progressive rock.” – Michael Haifl, Saiten Kult

“This nearly has no equal.  I’m very impressed, it’s an overwhelming experience, very ambitious. I am definitely delighted with the revealed inspiration and especially the technical finesse. One can consider it his (Riz Story’s) masterpiece.” – Uwe Zickel, Prog Archives

“Riz Story has pushed the boundaries of his “Maximum Acid” sound. The contrasts and stylistic jackknife turns keep coming, but while Story might bamboozle as much as he bewitches, he’s certainly never boring.” – PROG Magazine

“IN HUMANITY is a riveting theatrical experience. Arrestingly atmospheric, and precious… the ensemble’s magnum opus.” – Dmitry M. Epstein

“5 Out of 5 Stars! Impeccable. ANYONE has offered us music on a grand scale that does honor to the principle of the concept album – Modern neo-progressive touching the Avant Garde.” – Highlands Magazine, Didier Gonzalez

For more information:
www.AnyoneDen.net
www.facebook.com/AnyoneDen/

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Leave a comment | posted in ANYONE, Press Release

2023/07/31

Prog Ensemble District 97 Announce New Album Stay For The Ending and Launch The Opening of Pre-orders

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Prog Ensemble District 97 Announce New Album Stay For The Ending and Launch The Opening of Pre-orders

Spirit of Unicorn Music are delighted to announce a brand new album from District 97, Stay For The Ending, pre-orders for which have opened today.

Featuring 10 brand new tracks, the album is the culmination of everything this Chicago-based prog rock ensemble has worked towards during their last 15 years. Formed in Autumn 2006, the band draws influences from a diverse array of musical styles, from heavy metal to avant-garde jazz. This broad appreciation of musical genres has continued to inform the band’s latest work and sees them further develop their sound and songwriting to ambitious new levels: upping their game in the areas of composition, performance, arrangement, production and sonics.

Stay For The Ending traverses a vast array of themes with songs exploring the human condition: unity, division, deceit, obsession, detachment, resilience and transcendence. Drummer and Percussionist JONATHAN SCHANG said, “After 15 years of leading District 97, I’m thrilled that we continue to push ourselves to new heights in every realm of our music making. This is the strongest collection of songs we’ve ever assembled.”

The album has been recorded, mixed and mastered by NOAM WALLENBERG (ALAN PARSONS, MAC MILLER). Lead vocalist LESLIE HUNT (AMERICAN IDOL FEMALE VOCAL FINALIST 2007) commented, “This record represents us at our most collaborative and dynamic.  We tried some new things and chased different aesthetics than we have in the past and I think the result is our best sounding album to date with some of our strongest compositions.”

Friend of the band, BILL BRUFORD (KING CRIMSON, YES, GONG, BRUFORD) agrees. In response to hearing the new album, he said, “Quality, expertise and passion – ‘Stay For The Ending’ is a massive piece, of which District ’97 should feel justly proud.”

The Autumn sees the band undertake a number of live shows in the US and Europe, including playing The Bedford in Balham, South London on Sunday 10th September.  SCHANG continues “I can’t wait for the music world at large to hear it both on record and on stage.”

The album can be pre-ordered from Cherry Red Records here:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/district-97-stay-for-the-ending-cd/

DISTRICT 97 ARE:
Vocals: Leslie Hunt
Keyboards: Andrew Lawrence
Guitars, Vocals: Jim Tashjian
Bass Guitar: Tim Seisser
Drums & Percussion: Jonathan Schang

TRACK LISTING
Stay For The Ending
Mirror
Many New Things
Crossover
Divided We Fall
Life Cycle
X
X-Faded
Deck Is Stacked
The Watcher

TOUR DATES
18th August – Martyrs’, Chicago, Illinois, USA
2nd September – 2 Days + 1 Festival, Veruno, Italy
7th September – Das Rind, Russelsheim, Germany
8th/9th September – Steve Rothery Band Weekend, Poppodium Boerderij, Zoetemeer, Netherlands
10th September – A Sunday in September, The Bedford, London

For more information:
http://www.district97.net/
http://district97.bandcamp.com/ (Exclusive Music Available for Download)
https://www.facebook.com/District97
https://www.instagram.com/district.97/
http://twitter.com/District97

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Sarah Ewing at TASK Agency: sarah@taskagency.co.uk

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

1 Comment | posted in District 97, Press Release

2023/07/31

John Wetton “An Extraordinary Life” 8CD Box Set To Be Released November 24, 2023

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

John Wetton “An Extraordinary Life” 8CD Box Set To Be Released November 24, 2023

On 24th November the first in a series of box sets commemorating the life and music of one of the UK`s most extraordinary and prolific musicians, John Wetton, will be released.

The “An Extraordinary Life” box set contains 8 newly remastered CDs, featuring the six solo albums Wetton released between 1980 and 2011. Each album now includes special bonus tracks. Additionally, two further discs are included which feature a gold mine of rare, live and unreleased material from the vaults, compiled by John`s archivist, Rick Nelson.

Check out trailer for the box set here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EE0HFoq2Ck

Housed in a sumptuous 12” by 12” box, this set includes a 64-page book with an introduction by legendary artist, Roger Dean and contains comprehensive sleeve notes by Nick Shilton, author of Wetton’s biography, “An Extraordinary Life”, published earlier this year. The book also features a raft of photographs taken from the Wetton archive and has been designed by John’s long-time friend, Michael Inns.

This whole project has been lovingly crafted and compiled with the full blessing of John`s son Dylan and his wife Lisa and is endorsed by the Wetton estate.

With a career spanning more than four decades, John Wetton`s rich baritone voice and accomplished bass playing has adorned many recordings. In this “An Extraordinary Life” his extensive solo career is captured for posterity all in one sumptuous box set, making this a fitting tribute to one of the UK most loved and respected artists.

“An Extraordinary Life”

DISC 1: Caught in The Crossfire (1980)
DISC 2: Battle Lines (1994)
DISC 3: Arkangel (1997)
DISC 4: Welcome to Heaven (2000)
DISC 5: Rock of Faith (2003)
DISC 6: Raised in Captivity (2011)
DISC 7: New Live and Unreleased Tracks
DISC 8: New Live and Unreleased Tracks

ABOUT JOHN WETTON

John Wetton has a unique place in British music history. In a glittering career spanning more than 40 years, Wetton was a member of several influential and much-loved bands including Family, King Crimson, Uriah Heep, Wishbone Ash, Roxy Music, UK, Asia and Icon.  He also appeared on a host of albums as a guest artist or session player, including Bryan Ferry, Steve Hackett, Brian Eno, Renaissance and Galahad. In addition, Wetton had an extensive and accomplished solo career.

Pre-Order link: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/?post_type=product&p=1056834&preview=true

Official Website: www.johnwetton.co.uk

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

Leave a comment | posted in John Wetton, Press Release

2023/07/28

Deko Entertainment Releases Lisa Gee’s Debut EP ‘Shut It Down’ Produced By Rock Legend Carmine Appice!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Deko Entertainment Releases Lisa Gee’s Debut EP Shut It Down Produced By Rock Legend Carmine Appice!

Initial singles and videos “Shut It Down” and “Love Thing” Out Now!

Stockton, NJ – Shut it Down, the new EP by acclaimed singer/songwriter Lisa Gee, offers a musical tribute to the human experience. Songs of love, hate, exhilaration, exuberance, and the inevitable fallout we are all forced to confront at some point in our lives, radiate from the record via its cutting-edge production, infectious rhythms, and powerful vocals. Gee delivers this to her listeners and more, in a compact celebration of enchantments, vicissitudes, and uncertainties.

“This is a record about life and all one will experience when we live it to the fullest,” says Gee. “It’s not always great and hopefully it’s not too hard to get through, but when it’s good, it can be very good and very memorable. That’s how I’ve gone through it, so far.”

View the video for the title track here: https://youtu.be/9xs_7wtXzs4

Produced and co-arranged by legendary rock drummer Carmine Appice, Shut It Down is a departure from Gee’s typical sound, which often featured her multi-instrumentalist abilities. Appice, listed as one of greatest drummers of all time by ROLLING STONE and an accomplished songwriter and producer in his own right (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, Beck Bogert Appice; Ozzy Osbourne, and Rod Stewart), wanted to give Gee’s music a heavier foundation, accented by rougher edges and sterling production values. In the end, it forced the more traditional singer/songwriter to step outside of her previous musical comfort zone into something more visionary. In addition to Appice, who drummed on all the songs, veteran bassist James LoMenzo (Megadeth, John Fogerty, Black Label Society, White Lion) and Don Mancuso (Lou Gramm Band, Black Sheep, D-Drive, Lips Turn Blue) are also featured on the EP.

“I’ve been so lucky to work with a musical and studio pro like Carmine,” adds Gee. “From Ozzy, Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart to his own popular groups, Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, King Kobra and Blue Murder, Carmine brings decades of success and experience to a project like this. He took what I was creating to a whole new level.”

“Lisa Gee is the real deal,” says Appice. “She can play a multitude of instruments and has great songwriting and arranging skills. She was willing to go somewhere different in her musical journey on this record, and that made all the difference.”

A classically trained multi-instrumentalist, Gee is also a prolific songwriter, having written well over 200 songs. She remembers writing her first song at the age of four: “Music has been a passion as far back as I can remember.” Aside from working years in the legal community and having a side gig creating music videos for several artists, she finds time to ride. “Yes, you can add ‘The Original Biker Chick’ to my long list of accomplishments,” laughs Gee. “The boys in leather don’t take me seriously until I show up on my 1980 Harley Davidson Low Rider or my 2016 Indian Chief Vintage. I’ve been riding almost as long as I’ve been writing music.”

Her single “Love Thing” was previewed earlier this year through Deko Entertainment (ADA/Warner Music Group) and was her first co-write with Appice. “It’s an up-tempo pop/rock song that contemplates infatuation, love at first sight, and the beat of your heart when your crush is in your sights,” says Gee. “In fact, it was inspired by a chance encounter with The Ramones when I was very young…but that’s a different story.”

View video here: https://youtu.be/Iy9_GvgkR7Y

Shut it Down is a new chapter in the musical adventures of Lisa Gee. Her creative scope is so broad the label wasn’t sure how to define her initially. Upon hearing her music and seeing the videos, Deko President, Bruce Pucciarello, cryptically quipped, “What the f**k is Lisa Gee doing?”

She responded with this: https://youtu.be/yqX22abexrk

For the time being, let’s just say: “She’s being Lisa Gee.”

Order your copy of Shut It Down now and get your limited-edition bundle while supplies last: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/lisagee

Bundle Includes:
• One (1) Lisa Gee Shut It Down T Shirt
• One (1) Lisa Gee Shut It Down Lunchbox
• One (1) Lisa Gee Shut It Down CD
• Two (1) Lisa Gee Guitar Picks
• One (1) Autographed Picture of Lisa Gee

Shut It Down Tracklist:
“Love Thing”
“Automatic Reaction”
“Bad Motor Scooter”
“How Can This Be”
“Shut It Down”

For more information:
http://www.lisagee.rocks
www.dekoentertainment.com
Deko Entertainment–Art Has Value

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

Leave a comment | posted in Carmine Appice, Lisa Gee, Press Release

2023/07/28

Heavy Metal Pugilists GEORGE LYNCH & JEFF PILSON Return For Another Round Of Musical Uppercuts With HEAVY HITTERS II, Share New “RADIOACTIVE” Single!

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Heavy Metal Pugilists GEORGE LYNCH & JEFF PILSON Return For Another Round Of Musical Uppercuts With HEAVY HITTERS II, Share New “RADIOACTIVE” Single!

Los Angeles, CA – In 2020, Guitar-shredding virtuoso George Lynch reteamed with former Dokken bandmate Jeff Pilson for a set of new studio recordings that turned pop music classics into powerful metal anthems. Dubbed Heavy Hitters, the album was well-received by rock and metal devotees across the board. Now, this dynamic duo have once again converged for the highly anticipated follow-up album, Heavy Hitters II, which brings forth a fresh new set of reimagined cover versions representing classics of soul, modern alt-rock, new wave, blues and more!

Ever wondered what Pilson, one of the most widely respected bass players in all of hard rock and metal, could do with Sly & The Family Stone’s ultra funky bass line in “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)”? Or questioned whether Mr. Scary could transform Howlin’ Wolf’s oft-covered “Smokestack Lightning” into a smokin’ hot, floor-stompin’ slab of bluesy rock (with a special guest vocal by the great Corey Glove of Living Colour)? Well, Heavy Hitters II has your answers. Those delights and a whole lot more wait in store – just check out the album’s brand new single, a completely revamped version of Imagine Dragons’ “Radioactive.” In the hands of Lynch and Pilson, this tune gets a thorough re-working with a supercharged galloping rhythmic guitar riff you’ll have to hear to believe.

Stream/download the single: https://orcd.co/lynchpilson_radioactive

Whereas the previous volume of Heavy Hitters featured a mix of various guest vocalists, this time around Lynch and Pilson brought in one of the most diverse and powerful vocalists in the business, longtime Rolling Stones backing vocalist, Bernard Fowler! Fowler, along with acclaimed drummer Brian Tichy, fill out each of the album’s tracks with their masterful performances.

Reflecting on the project, Lynch declares “Jeff and I have always cherished any opportunities to work together over the 40 something years we’ve been playing together. Writing original records, (in Dokken, LP, T&N, The End Machine, etc.) is wonderful but doing an album of covers is a different and refreshing experience for us. I’d say it’s a little less ‘grindy’ work and a lot more fun because we’re interpreting previously written songs rather than building compositions from the ground up. It’s very liberating and affords more time to experiment and have fun with tracks. Plus getting to do a record with Bernard who is a legend was very motivating! It’s almost like we’re a few degrees removed from being in The Rolling Stones!”

Pilson likewise enthuses, “George and I have so much fun with these Heavy Hitters records. Reinterpreting classic pop songs as rock anthems is an amazingly fun challenge. And with Bernard and Brian we have a band that I’d put up against anyone out there! Plus as writers George and I love studying what makes these songs such classics and we take that into our own writing to constantly improve. And we’ve always wanted to write and record a Christmas song- which we did with ‘It’s A Wonderful Life.’ So Merry Christmas from Heavy Hitters – and have a great summer!”

Watch for the full release of Heavy Hitters II arriving on CD, vinyl and digital on August 11!

Order the CD/vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/store/?s=heavy+hitters+ii&post_type=product

Pre-order/pre-save the digital: https://orcd.co/lynchpilson_heavyhittersii

TRACK LIST:
1. Sledgehammer
2. Carry On
3. The Stroke
4. Radioactive
5. Smokestack Lightning
6. Hold On (I’m Coming)
7. Stay With Me
8. Shout
9. New Sensation
10. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
11. Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)
12. It’s A Wonderful Life

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


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, INC.
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Cleopatra Records Store
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

Leave a comment | posted in George Lynch, Jeff Pilson, Press Release

2023/07/27

Drummer Bob Holz to Release New Album “Holz-Stathis: Collaborative” Featuring John McLaughlin, Jean-Luc Ponty, Darryl Jones and Randy Brecker

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Drummer Bob Holz to Release New Album “Holz-Stathis: Collaborative” Featuring John McLaughlin, Jean-Luc Ponty, Darryl Jones and Randy Brecker

Jazz Fusion drummer and composer Bob Holz will release his sixth album for MVD Audio on September 8, 2023. The record is titled “Holz-Stathis: Collaborative.” Joining Bob Holz on the album are John McLaughlin, Jean Luc Ponty, Darryl Jones, Randy Brecker, Elliott Yamin, Alex Acuna, Airto Moreira, Brandon Fields, Ralphe Armstrong, Billy Steinway, Dean Brown, Ric Fierabracci, Jamie Glaser, Ada Rovatti, Karen Briggs, Diana Moreira Purim, Ben Shepherd and Frank Stepanek.

The album features twelve new original tunes penned by Holz, Steinway and Brown. Rob Stathis is the Executive Producer. The album is recorded and mixed by multiplatinum sound engineer Dennis Moody.

Two vocalists are featured on “Holz-Stathis:Collaborative.” Elliott Yamin who placed third on American Idol sings a hip hop meets jazz tune penned by Dean Brown and Holz. Diana Moreira Purim sings a Brazilian jazz fusion tune titled “Island Sun Love,” written by Steinway and Holz.

Bob has released a new video featuring Darryl Jones bassist in the Rolling Stones and vocalist Elliott Yamin. It was shot at Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood, CA and is a cover tune of “Make Me Smile” by Chicago.

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/46zVFDa3Vtc

As a drummer, Bob Holz has made a significant mark in the jazz world and here he expands his love of latin jazz fusion rhythms by teaming up with Brazilian percussionist Airto Moreira, Alex Acuna(Weather Report) and Joey Heredia. This album exemplifies Holz’s reputation as one of the top players in jazz and fusion. In the past Bob Holz has played and recorded with Larry Coryell, Mike Stern, Stanley Clarke and Randy Brecker. Bob Holz endorses Paiste cymbals, Canopus Drums and Ahead Drumstics.

To pre-order: https://a.co/d/b3AJfUj

For more information:
http://www.bobholzband.com
https://www.facebook.com/drummerbobholz?mibextid=ZbWKwL
https://canopusdrums.com/en/endorsers/bob-holz/
https://m.soundcloud.com/bob-holz
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/bob-holz/
https://www.paiste.com/en/musicians/bob-holz
https://open.spotify.com/artist/37ZObdUrl25FFZyXHRHv70
https://youtube.com/@BobHolz
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertholz
https://www.instagram.com/p/CpnmxMPOBOP/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Holz
https://twitter.com/BobHolz?t=FsLR8B6R4MBawk0E8F6Ftw&s=09

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

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

2023/07/25

DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION Announce Release of New Album ‘Celestial Songs’ on Sept. 8, 2023

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION Announce Release of New Album Celestial Songs on Sept. 8, 2023

Downes Braide Association (DBA) announce the release of their long-awaited new album Celestial Songs on 8th September. Following their previous critically acclaimed studio albums, Celestial Songs will be the fifth DBA studio collaboration for Geoff Downes (keyboards) and multi award-winning songwriter Chris Braide (vocals). The album will be released in 3 formats: CD, 2LP and Box Set.

DBA also launched the first single from the album “Clear Light” – listen to the song and watch the video here:  https://youtu.be/FvV6p35GOnU

Celestial Songs marks another musical leap forward for DBA. “As we were writing the songs for the album, they started to become thematic in emotion and feeling,” says Chris Braide, “more classic rock than the predecessor ‘Halcyon Hymns’. The songs were about life and death, time, love, nostalgia, spirituality. Very DBA in fact.”

“I know that Chris really likes the depth of chord sequences that I put together,” Geoff Downes explains. “This particular collection just really grabbed him and he got it up and running very, very quickly, so I was really pleased about that. There’s a lot of variety on the album, too. We were aiming to get quite a bit more dynamics into this album because there were some very quiet pastoral moments. I think it makes it a more interesting listen for people to get their heads around and enjoy. I hope people will appreciate it and get behind it, not just the songwriting and vocals but the overall instrumentation and musicianship is very high on this album.”

The high quality of musicianship is because of the exceptional core of musicians with which DBA have surrounded themselves including Andy Hodge (bass), Dave Bainbridge (former Iona guitarist and keyboardist), and Marc Almond who adds a brief vocal appearance.

“It’s very useful having this core of musicians that are ready to enhance our music,” agrees Geoff Downes. “Andy Hodge is very much an integral part of this unit. When we send him stuff to play, he has incredible feeling and creates a more interesting bass part than we could have thought of ourselves. Having Dave Bainbridge with us has added another dimension to the DBA-sound and I’m very happy with that. Dave’s got his own stamp and that’s something that we appreciate having on board. Marc Almond makes a cameo appearance on ‘The Darker Side Of Fame’ and Marc and Chris’s voices blend really well. It tells a story, a theme that a lot of people, and a lot of musicians, can relate to – certainly musicians that have had any kind of success. The lyric is very poignant, whilst you have all the glory, the accolades and the adulation, it can go away and you’re left with nothing. It reflects life in general, I think, as people go through all kinds of ups and downs throughout their careers and throughout their lives.”

The closing track cements DBA’s prog credentials as Chris Braide explains, “What happens to love when we die? ‘Beyond The Stars’ was a tune that began in 2015 and really shaped the way the artwork was to develop. Something bigger than us, something astral and heavenly, it grew from a 3-minute ditty to an 11-minute epic. That’s what the song ‘Beyond The Stars’ is really asking. ‘Celestial Songs’ was a title we came up with in 2020 and Roger (Dean) made it manifest in his wonderful sleeve painting. A beautiful, heavenly, rainbow sky full of stars. DBA’s music has always been about the big questions, the beauty of love and the tragedy of loss, but always with hope, I suppose. ‘Celestial Songs’ is the latest chapter in that series. I hope people enjoy listening to the album as much as we enjoyed writing it and making it.”

You can pre-order all formats of Celestial Songs here:
CD version: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/downes-braide-association-celestial-songs-cd-edition/
2LP version: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/downes-braide-association-celestial-songs-vinyl-edition/
Box set version: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/downes-braide-association-celestial-songs-deluxe-12-box-set-edition/

Celestial Songs Track Listing:
1. Look What You Do (6.17)
2. Clear Light (5.00)
3. Keep On Moving (6.36)
4. Darker Side Of Fame (3.56)
5. Hey Kid (3.28)
6. Will To Power (6.23)
7. Heart Shaped Hole (9.06)
8. Dear Petra (3.56)
9. On The Run (5.09)
10. Goodbye To You (Sister Shame) (7.30)
11. Beyond The Stars (10.19)
(Total running time: 67.40)

All tracks written by Chris Braide and Geoff Downes except “Keep On Moving” (Chris Braide/Francis Dunnery/ Geoff Downes) and “Goodbye To You (Sister Shame)” (Chris Braide/Andy Partridge/Geoff Downes)
Produced by Chris Braide and Geoff Downes

About Downes Braide Association

Downes Braide Association was formed as a studio-based project by Geoff Downes and Chris Braide and has previously produced four studio albums: Pictures Of You (2012), Suburban Ghosts (2015), Skyscraper Souls (2017) and Halcyon Hymns (2021) and a live album Live In England (2019). The project draws on Downes’ and Braide’s rich musical heritage to create a delightfully accessible brand of progressive rock.

Keyboard wizard Geoff Downes was thrust into the limelight with the worldwide success of Video Killed The Radio Star in 1979. The single topped the charts in 16 countries for The Buggles duo of Geoff and Trevor Horn (vocals, bass guitar). They briefly joined prog legends YES before Downes became a founder member of the supergroup Asia with YES guitarist Steve Howe, ELP drummer Carl Palmer and the late John Wetton (vocals, bass guitar).

The Wetton-Downes composition “Heat Of The Moment” became a world-wide hit in 1982 heralding many years of success for Asia with their FM radio-friendly brand of rock. Downes later rejoined YES in 2011 and remains with the band alongside Steve Howe.

British singer-songwriter-pianist Chris Braide has recently returned to UK shores after many years based in California. He enjoys enormous success writing and producing music for film scores, advertising campaigns and working closely with artists including Sia, Lana Del Rey, Christina Aguilera, Beyonce, Paloma Faith, Britney Spears and Marc Almond.

An Ivor Novello award-winner and Grammy-nominated, Braide has recently won a BMI Pop Award in Los Angeles for co-writing Sia’s Unstoppable, her eighth US Top 40 hit after making a surprise, and long, rise to the top having been released in 2016, becoming the biggest selling single in the USA.

For more information:
Twitter: Downes Braide Association.  @TheRealDBAMusic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downesbraide/
www.christopherbraide.com
www.geoffdownes.com

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

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2023/07/24

Guitarist Alan Gowa Signs with Blue Buddha Productions, Unveils Captivating Solo Album “Gowa-Tronic”

By glassonyonpr

For Immediate Release

Guitarist Alan Gowa Signs with Blue Buddha Productions, Unveils Captivating Solo Album “Gowa-Tronic”

Blue Buddha Productions is thrilled to announce the signing of guitarist Alan Gowa. Known for his extraordinary solo performances and innovative looping technique, Gowa has captivated audiences with his mesmerizing musical prowess. With this exciting new partnership, Gowa is set to release his highly anticipated solo album, “Gowa-Tronic” pushing the boundaries of musical innovation and captivating fans with its fusion of Prog Rock, heavy electronic beats, and aggressive rock guitar.

Gowa’s mastery of the looping technique allows him to create intricate layers of music in real-time during his performances, using a looping delay pedal. As the guitar melodies are played, they are recorded and layered, while additional elements such as guitar synthesizer sounds (including bass, keyboards, orchestral tones, and percussion) are added “live.” The result is a remarkably full and dynamic sonic landscape that transcends traditional solo guitar performances. Gowa’s versatility enables him to seamlessly blend various musical styles and genres, ensuring an unforgettable and unique experience at each performance.

“Gowa-Tronic,” the highly anticipated album, showcases Gowa’s exceptional skills on a multitude of instruments. The album features drum, percussion, and synth loops in addition to Alan playing bass, keyboard, guitar and E-bow (an electronic device providing infinite sustain to guitars), creating a groundbreaking fusion of Prog Rock, heavy electronic beats, and powerful rock guitar. This eclectic blend promises to captivate fans across different musical preferences and leave a lasting impression.

In addition to his solo career, Alan Gowa has established himself as a remarkable opening act for renowned blues and classic rock icons, including Chuck Berry, The Marshall Tucker Band, Dick Dale, Edgar Winter, John Mayall’s Blues Breakers, J. Geils, and many more. He has opened shows for esteemed artists such as Mark Egan, Emmett Chapman, and the Stickmen featuring Tony Levin, Pat Mastelotto, and Markus Reuter, leaving audiences in awe of his musical dexterity.

Furthermore, Gowa’s musical journey extends beyond his solo endeavors. As a member of the band Fresh Fish, Gowa and his bandmates performed his original compositions throughout the vibrant New York/New Jersey metropolitan area. Their remarkable achievements include being finalists in the prestigious Aquarian Band Contest. Fresh Fish’s music video for their hit song “Waiting” received notable recognition, airing on MTV’s “120 Minutes” and numerous local cable outlets. They were also featured on acclaimed national TV shows, including interviews on Joe Franklin and the “Uncle Floyd Show.”

Alan Gowa’s musical versatility has led him to collaborate with diverse artists, such as poet John Lunar Richey, with their captivating live performance being released as “Live at Lucky” on Robert Musso’s esteemed label. Moreover, Gowa has performed with Carlo Martini (The Italian Elvis) at Howard Stern’s sold-out New Year’s Eve Show, showcasing his exceptional guitar skills on a prominent stage.

With his signing to Blue Buddha Productions, Alan Gowa embarks on an exciting new chapter in his musical career. Blue Buddha Productions is renowned for nurturing exceptional talent and supporting artists in their creative endeavors. Gowa’s exceptional artistry and unique approach to music make him a perfect addition to the Blue Buddha Productions family.

As the release of “Gowa-Tronic” approaches, the anticipation among music enthusiasts continues to grow. With its groundbreaking fusion of genres and Gowa’s captivating looping technique, the album promises to captivate fans across various musical landscapes. Prepare to embark on a sonic journey like no other as Alan Gowa invites listeners to experience the boundless possibilities of his captivating music.

“Gowa-Tronic” Tracklist:
1. Fresno 9
2. G’s No Waiting
3. bAcksPLash
4. Pink and Black
5. Prog Rock Dance Party
6. Cold Snowy Peaks of Hoboken
7. Another Sleepless Month
8. 1821
9. Big Giant Fragment
10. Big Giant Continuous Mix

To purchase: https://bluebuddha.bandcamp.com/album/gowa-tronic

For information:
https://www.facebook.com/alan.gowa/
https://www.instagram.com/alangowa/

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

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