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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Independent Music Reviewer & Music Promotion
Freelance Writer
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Independent Music Reviewer & Music Promotion
Freelance Writer
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Black Swan, the rock super group featuring vocalist Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group), guitarist Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), bassist Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, The End Machine, ex-Dokken), and drummer Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big) have just released a video for 'Shake the World,' the title track from their forthcoming debut album...
Released on Frontiers Music on February 14th 2020, Shake The World is an aptly titled romp of powerful hard rock that is not simply the sum of its parts, but a powerful rock ‘n roll machine.
"Shooting the video for Shake the World was a blast," says Matt Starr. "Shot in Los Angeles over the course of two days, it was similar to recording the record, everything was very organic and comfortable.
That’s the advantage of working with guys who have so much experience. There’s not too much discussion going on. Everybody knows what to do, we just get to work and do it!"
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"Shooting the video for Shake the World was a blast," says Matt Starr. "Shot in Los Angeles over the course of two days, it was similar to recording the record, everything was very organic and comfortable.
That’s the advantage of working with guys who have so much experience. There’s not too much discussion going on. Everybody knows what to do, we just get to work and do it!"
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Saxon frontman Biff Byford will release his debut solo album School of Hard Knocks on 21st February on Silver Lining Music.
Biff Byford isn’t just an acclaimed and renowned heavy metal singer; he has earned the right to be considered a true heavy metal bard.
On School of Hard Knocks Biff takes on not just tales and stories from his heart and soul, but also investigates the Middle Ages and Medieval history amongst other subjects.
"I’m singing about my past of course and about things I like, but mostly I wanted it to reflect me, my personality and my life," says Biff. "Song-wise it’s more diverse and not just focused on heavy metal.
I wanted it to be a slice of the music I like, from metal, to rock ‘n’ roll. I’m a guy who’s just as happy listening to Metallica or Judy Garland, because as long as it’s great and entertains me, then what more do I need?"
"One of my favourite is 'The Pit and the Pendulum,' which is quite prog metal and I love that," continues Biff "I’m a big prog rock fan and was a huge fan of YES back in the day.
There’s a version of 'Throw Down the Sword' by Wishbone Ash; the reason I did that was because it was the first song I ever heard that was anything to do with history in the sense of battles and war, and was really the thing which started me on the road to writing historically-driven songs."
Another cover also features – a version of the Simon & Garfunkel classic 'Scarborough Fair,' where Biff Byford and Fredrik Åkesson (from Opeth) have created a new arrangement.
"It’s a traditional medieval song, and the story goes that Paul Simon happened to hear somebody playing it in Whitby; but I wanted something which represented Yorkshire and it is a Yorkshire folk song, so we tried a new arrangement which made it a little heavier, and it works really well."
All of which means you’ll get to know Byford supremely well over the eleven tracks that comprise the album, from the spoken word introduction of 'Inquisitor' (with its stoic, poetic take on the Spanish Inquisition) to the autobiographical, old-school Wheels of Steel era thrust of 'Welcome to the Show'...
Biff Byford isn’t just an acclaimed and renowned heavy metal singer; he has earned the right to be considered a true heavy metal bard.
On School of Hard Knocks Biff takes on not just tales and stories from his heart and soul, but also investigates the Middle Ages and Medieval history amongst other subjects.
"I’m singing about my past of course and about things I like, but mostly I wanted it to reflect me, my personality and my life," says Biff. "Song-wise it’s more diverse and not just focused on heavy metal.
I wanted it to be a slice of the music I like, from metal, to rock ‘n’ roll. I’m a guy who’s just as happy listening to Metallica or Judy Garland, because as long as it’s great and entertains me, then what more do I need?"
"One of my favourite is 'The Pit and the Pendulum,' which is quite prog metal and I love that," continues Biff "I’m a big prog rock fan and was a huge fan of YES back in the day.
There’s a version of 'Throw Down the Sword' by Wishbone Ash; the reason I did that was because it was the first song I ever heard that was anything to do with history in the sense of battles and war, and was really the thing which started me on the road to writing historically-driven songs."
Another cover also features – a version of the Simon & Garfunkel classic 'Scarborough Fair,' where Biff Byford and Fredrik Åkesson (from Opeth) have created a new arrangement.
"It’s a traditional medieval song, and the story goes that Paul Simon happened to hear somebody playing it in Whitby; but I wanted something which represented Yorkshire and it is a Yorkshire folk song, so we tried a new arrangement which made it a little heavier, and it works really well."
All of which means you’ll get to know Byford supremely well over the eleven tracks that comprise the album, from the spoken word introduction of 'Inquisitor' (with its stoic, poetic take on the Spanish Inquisition) to the autobiographical, old-school Wheels of Steel era thrust of 'Welcome to the Show'...
School of Hard Knocks was produced by Biff Byford and features a band line-up of Biff Byford, Fredrik Åkesson (guitars), Christian Lundqvist (drums) and Gus Macricostas (bass – Byford also contributes bass parts).
Guest appearances include Phil Campbell (Motörhead/Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons), Alex Holzwart (Rhapsody of Fire), Nick Barker (Voices), Dave Kemp (Wayward Sons) and Nibbs Carter (Saxon).
Biff Byford is also planning some live event shows next year, which will break new ground:
"I’m going to do a words-and-music tour in small venues; the first part will be me in conversation with the audience about anything really, from my recent heart attack to sex, drugs, rock n roll, old times, new times, friends, enemies and whatever anyone wants to chat about... Then bringing out a band and playing some new songs, covers and maybe end with a Saxon song or two. I’m still working out the details, but it’s a show I’ve wanted to do for a long time and one which I don’t think has been done in hard rock before."
Pre-order School of Hard Knocks on CD, Vinyl, Digital formats and special bundles:
http://hyperurl.co/SchoolOfHardKnocks
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Guest appearances include Phil Campbell (Motörhead/Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons), Alex Holzwart (Rhapsody of Fire), Nick Barker (Voices), Dave Kemp (Wayward Sons) and Nibbs Carter (Saxon).
Biff Byford is also planning some live event shows next year, which will break new ground:
"I’m going to do a words-and-music tour in small venues; the first part will be me in conversation with the audience about anything really, from my recent heart attack to sex, drugs, rock n roll, old times, new times, friends, enemies and whatever anyone wants to chat about... Then bringing out a band and playing some new songs, covers and maybe end with a Saxon song or two. I’m still working out the details, but it’s a show I’ve wanted to do for a long time and one which I don’t think has been done in hard rock before."
Pre-order School of Hard Knocks on CD, Vinyl, Digital formats and special bundles:
http://hyperurl.co/SchoolOfHardKnocks
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Renowned American singer-guitarist Eric Gales will be on tour in the UK in May & June of 2020; the dates follow, and support, his latest album The Bookends, which was released earlier in 2019.
Tickets now available via www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Gales
Eric Gales will have two very special British blues guests for the shows.
Ben Poole, who will releases his live album Ben Poole Trio /// Live ’19 on 31st January, will play on the dates at the Leeds Brudenell Social Club (May 30th) and the Glasgow Oran Mor (June 1st).
Joining Eric Gales for all other dates is Danny Bryant, who recently released his eleventh studio album Means of Escape.
The Bookends was released via Provogue/Mascot Label Group; the album features collaborations with B. Slade, Doyle Bramhall II and Beth Hart.
The challenge for making The Bookends was, for Eric Gales, to challenge himself.
"As a guitar player it’s been established that I can play a little bit, just a little bit," he smiles.
But for this album he not only wanted to push himself as a musician, but also as a vocalist, to build up his vocal discography. "What spearheaded that was the artists that I have on the record..."
Three-time Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award winning vocalist B. Slade appears on two songs, ‘Something’s Gotta Give’ and bonus track ‘Pedal to the Metal.’
"When he came in during pre-production and we were writing, it was so intense. At first, I was a little afraid to sing in front of this guy, because this is what this dude does, he’s a phenomenal person and he just brought it out of me."
Eric Clapton’s right-hand man Doyle Bramhall II features on the triumphant slow soul-blues ‘Southpaw Serenade’, while powerhouse vocalist Beth Hart joins Gales on a rousing rendition of ‘With A Little Help from My Friends.’
"Why that song? Well we both have similar stories," says Eric Gales, continuing: "we’re survivors you know, drug addiction and her from depression. If you’ve got the right support and you can have help from your friends, it will all be awesome. It is such a powerful piece."
Tickets now available via www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Gales
Eric Gales will have two very special British blues guests for the shows.
Ben Poole, who will releases his live album Ben Poole Trio /// Live ’19 on 31st January, will play on the dates at the Leeds Brudenell Social Club (May 30th) and the Glasgow Oran Mor (June 1st).
Joining Eric Gales for all other dates is Danny Bryant, who recently released his eleventh studio album Means of Escape.
The Bookends was released via Provogue/Mascot Label Group; the album features collaborations with B. Slade, Doyle Bramhall II and Beth Hart.
The challenge for making The Bookends was, for Eric Gales, to challenge himself.
"As a guitar player it’s been established that I can play a little bit, just a little bit," he smiles.
But for this album he not only wanted to push himself as a musician, but also as a vocalist, to build up his vocal discography. "What spearheaded that was the artists that I have on the record..."
Three-time Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award winning vocalist B. Slade appears on two songs, ‘Something’s Gotta Give’ and bonus track ‘Pedal to the Metal.’
"When he came in during pre-production and we were writing, it was so intense. At first, I was a little afraid to sing in front of this guy, because this is what this dude does, he’s a phenomenal person and he just brought it out of me."
Eric Clapton’s right-hand man Doyle Bramhall II features on the triumphant slow soul-blues ‘Southpaw Serenade’, while powerhouse vocalist Beth Hart joins Gales on a rousing rendition of ‘With A Little Help from My Friends.’
"Why that song? Well we both have similar stories," says Eric Gales, continuing: "we’re survivors you know, drug addiction and her from depression. If you’ve got the right support and you can have help from your friends, it will all be awesome. It is such a powerful piece."
Eric Gales’ story is an incredible one.
He was a child prodigy, releasing his debut album in 1991 as a 16-year-old on Elektra Records.
The Eric Gales Band was the first of what became ten studio albums for major labels through an acclaimed career (to date he has released twenty albums when including live releases and collaborative projects).
Eric Gales has also battled drink and drug issues and spent time in jail in 2009 for possession of drugs and a weapon (Gales proudly tells his story every night before every show).
Now over two years sober he is creating some of the best music he has ever made.
"One of the best, if not the best guitar player in the world" – Joe Bonamassa
"Absolutely incredible" – Carlos Santana
"How Eric Gales isn’t the hugest name in rock guitar is a total mystery" – Dave Navarro
"This guy could be the best player on Earth" – Mark Tremonti
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He was a child prodigy, releasing his debut album in 1991 as a 16-year-old on Elektra Records.
The Eric Gales Band was the first of what became ten studio albums for major labels through an acclaimed career (to date he has released twenty albums when including live releases and collaborative projects).
Eric Gales has also battled drink and drug issues and spent time in jail in 2009 for possession of drugs and a weapon (Gales proudly tells his story every night before every show).
Now over two years sober he is creating some of the best music he has ever made.
"One of the best, if not the best guitar player in the world" – Joe Bonamassa
"Absolutely incredible" – Carlos Santana
"How Eric Gales isn’t the hugest name in rock guitar is a total mystery" – Dave Navarro
"This guy could be the best player on Earth" – Mark Tremonti
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Renowned metal act Anvil have just released their new single & lyric video for 'Nabbed In Nebraska,' taken from forthcoming album Legal At Last which will be released on AFM Records on 14th February.
The album will be available as digipak CD, digital, black vinyl and limited coloured vinyl.
Anvil make no excuses for the title of the new single – the band got busted, back then, when touring in Nebraska and this is what the song, along with its driving, mid-tempo groove, is all about…
The album will be available as digipak CD, digital, black vinyl and limited coloured vinyl.
Anvil make no excuses for the title of the new single – the band got busted, back then, when touring in Nebraska and this is what the song, along with its driving, mid-tempo groove, is all about…
When it comes to endurance, commitment and a thoroughly down-to-earth attitude, Anvil are the measure of all things.
Like few other metal acts, the band (founding members Steve ‘Lips’ Kudlow (vocals, guitars) and Robb Reiner (drums) along with bassist Chris Robertson) have earned their laurels though blood, sweat and tears.
Since their 2009 documentary film The Story Of Anvil, which revealed the unvarnished truth about the music industry, the world has been aware that the day-to-day life of most musicians isn’t MTV Awards, Grammy ceremonies, red carpets, champagne and caviar but energy-sapping tours with little sleep, junk food and meagre earnings. Yet these difficult conditions have made Anvil what they are today.
Legal At Last is an impressive new statement by a band that stands for the same values in 2020 as it did when it was first launched in the autumn of 1978.
This new album is also very special to Anvil - "Legal At Last is mainly about two things," Robb Reiner explains, pointing to the cover artwork with a grin. "We celebrate the legalisation of the Anvil bong because Canada changed its marijuana laws last year, which means we no longer sail close to the wind all the time. That’s why the album title announces that Anvil are legal at last!"
"Our fans have always known that, but the public at large treated us like criminals for a long time." Steve Kudlow then adds. "Legal At Last is our way of telling the public 'It’s okay, Anvil are okay, you’re allowed to like us at last!'"
Kudlow is referring to songs which highlight Anvil’s great creative power, be it the steam hammer flair of the title track, the critical undertones of 'Plastic In Paradise', the doomy orientation of songs such as 'Said And Done' and ‘Gasoline’ or fast and hard numbers ‘No Time’, ‘Chemtrails’ and ‘Food For The Vulture.’
Like its predecessors, Anvil Is Anvil (2016) and Pounding The Pavement (2018), Legal At Last was produced by Martin "Mattes" Pfeiffer. The album was mixed and engineered by Jörg Uken at his Soundlodge studio in Rhauderfehn, Germany.
ANVIL UK Tour Dates, March 2020:
4th Bannermans, Edinburgh
5th Flowerpot, Derby
6th Tivoli, Buckley
7th Nightrain, Bradford
8th Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes
9th Academy3, Manchester
11th Limelight 2, Belfast
12th Voodoo Lounge, Dublin
13th Queens Hall, Nuneaton
14th Lantern, Halifax
15th Cobblestones, Bridgwater
17th Level 3, Swindon
18th Exchange, Bristol
19th The Haunt, Brighton
20th The 1865, Southampton
21st O2 Academy, Islington
22nd Y Llew Coch & Y Plas Machynlleth
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Like few other metal acts, the band (founding members Steve ‘Lips’ Kudlow (vocals, guitars) and Robb Reiner (drums) along with bassist Chris Robertson) have earned their laurels though blood, sweat and tears.
Since their 2009 documentary film The Story Of Anvil, which revealed the unvarnished truth about the music industry, the world has been aware that the day-to-day life of most musicians isn’t MTV Awards, Grammy ceremonies, red carpets, champagne and caviar but energy-sapping tours with little sleep, junk food and meagre earnings. Yet these difficult conditions have made Anvil what they are today.
Legal At Last is an impressive new statement by a band that stands for the same values in 2020 as it did when it was first launched in the autumn of 1978.
This new album is also very special to Anvil - "Legal At Last is mainly about two things," Robb Reiner explains, pointing to the cover artwork with a grin. "We celebrate the legalisation of the Anvil bong because Canada changed its marijuana laws last year, which means we no longer sail close to the wind all the time. That’s why the album title announces that Anvil are legal at last!"
"Our fans have always known that, but the public at large treated us like criminals for a long time." Steve Kudlow then adds. "Legal At Last is our way of telling the public 'It’s okay, Anvil are okay, you’re allowed to like us at last!'"
Kudlow is referring to songs which highlight Anvil’s great creative power, be it the steam hammer flair of the title track, the critical undertones of 'Plastic In Paradise', the doomy orientation of songs such as 'Said And Done' and ‘Gasoline’ or fast and hard numbers ‘No Time’, ‘Chemtrails’ and ‘Food For The Vulture.’
Like its predecessors, Anvil Is Anvil (2016) and Pounding The Pavement (2018), Legal At Last was produced by Martin "Mattes" Pfeiffer. The album was mixed and engineered by Jörg Uken at his Soundlodge studio in Rhauderfehn, Germany.
ANVIL UK Tour Dates, March 2020:
4th Bannermans, Edinburgh
5th Flowerpot, Derby
6th Tivoli, Buckley
7th Nightrain, Bradford
8th Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes
9th Academy3, Manchester
11th Limelight 2, Belfast
12th Voodoo Lounge, Dublin
13th Queens Hall, Nuneaton
14th Lantern, Halifax
15th Cobblestones, Bridgwater
17th Level 3, Swindon
18th Exchange, Bristol
19th The Haunt, Brighton
20th The 1865, Southampton
21st O2 Academy, Islington
22nd Y Llew Coch & Y Plas Machynlleth
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Swedish heavy melodic rockers H.E.A.T recently announced three dates in the UK in May 2020 as part of a larger tour in support of new studio album, H.E.A.T II
The shows will be four band bills featuring H.E.A.T with UK melodic rockers Vega, noted Scottish contemporary rock-metal outfit Mason Hill and a leading light in the New Wave of British Classic Rock movement, Collateral
Tickets for all three shows are on sale now via https://myticket.co.uk/artists/heat
H.E.A.T’s forthcoming studio album, 'H.E.A.T II,' will be released on Friday 21st February 2020.
Pre-orders can be taken here: https://heat.lnk.to/Heat-II
The album, which will be available as CD Digipak, Vinyl and Digital, is the first album to be produced entirely by the band (keyboardist Jona Tee and guitarist Dave Dalone are the producers).
This album is a return to the band’s beginnings while redefining the raw, high-energy H.E.A.T sound of classic rock coolness and rock and roll confidence - "This is what we would sound like if we made a debut album 2019, hence the title" say the band.
The first single 'One By One' gave a sonic glimpse into what is to come for the new album; it was followed by a second single 'Rise' that, as the band explains, is "about uniting and rebelling against the powers that be. Whatever that may be is subjective to the listener."
The shows will be four band bills featuring H.E.A.T with UK melodic rockers Vega, noted Scottish contemporary rock-metal outfit Mason Hill and a leading light in the New Wave of British Classic Rock movement, Collateral
Tickets for all three shows are on sale now via https://myticket.co.uk/artists/heat
H.E.A.T’s forthcoming studio album, 'H.E.A.T II,' will be released on Friday 21st February 2020.
Pre-orders can be taken here: https://heat.lnk.to/Heat-II
The album, which will be available as CD Digipak, Vinyl and Digital, is the first album to be produced entirely by the band (keyboardist Jona Tee and guitarist Dave Dalone are the producers).
This album is a return to the band’s beginnings while redefining the raw, high-energy H.E.A.T sound of classic rock coolness and rock and roll confidence - "This is what we would sound like if we made a debut album 2019, hence the title" say the band.
The first single 'One By One' gave a sonic glimpse into what is to come for the new album; it was followed by a second single 'Rise' that, as the band explains, is "about uniting and rebelling against the powers that be. Whatever that may be is subjective to the listener."
H.E.A.T is:
Erik Grönwall (vocals), Dave Dalone (guitars), Jimmy Jay (bass), Jona Tee (keyboards), Don Crash (drums).
H.E.A.T UK Dates 2020 (with Vega, Mason Hill & Collateral)
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Thursday 28th May
London, The Garage - Friday 29th May
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Saturday 30th May
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Erik Grönwall (vocals), Dave Dalone (guitars), Jimmy Jay (bass), Jona Tee (keyboards), Don Crash (drums).
H.E.A.T UK Dates 2020 (with Vega, Mason Hill & Collateral)
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Thursday 28th May
London, The Garage - Friday 29th May
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Saturday 30th May
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After a three year absence roots & soul vocalist Jo Harman recently returned to the recording studio; the beautifully voiced singer cut an entirely unedited set, aptly entitled Signature Soul, reflecting the inimitable nature of her work as a vocalist and song writing artist.
What everyone played and sung in the moment is what you hear on Signature Soul – no fixing or editing, with little or no separation between the players involved, singer included.
A three take session, Jo Harman and the four piece band used Take One as the run through and to come up with some parts for the players; Take Two was the test run and Take Three was the recording.
You can preview the results on the mini-documentary video of the session...
What everyone played and sung in the moment is what you hear on Signature Soul – no fixing or editing, with little or no separation between the players involved, singer included.
A three take session, Jo Harman and the four piece band used Take One as the run through and to come up with some parts for the players; Take Two was the test run and Take Three was the recording.
You can preview the results on the mini-documentary video of the session...
Signature Soul, a live in the studio recording by Jo Harman and the Funkestra House Band, recorded at Masterlink studios, Surrey.
Official release spring of 2020 (tbc) in Vinyl, CD/DVD (Including videos of each song and mini documentary) and CD only.
Produced by Jo Harman and Stefan Redtenbacher
Pre-order details: www.joharman.com/shop
Jo Harman – vocals
Stefan Redtenbacher – bass, bandleader
Mike Outram – guitar, backing vocals
Ross Stanley – Hammond organ, Fender Rhodes
Mike Sturgis – drums, percussion
James Welch – backing vocals
Track Listing:
Don't Let Me Down (Lennon - McCartney)
Keep You Guessing (Harman - McEwan)
The Angel Leaves Her Watermark (Wood)
Say That You Want Me (Harman - Davies)
Loving Arms (Jans)
Jo Harman - confirmed 2020 shows
22nd January - Under The Bridge, London (co-headliner with Mike Farris for London Blues Month)
23rd January - Silsden Town Hall, Yorkshire
25th January - Cornerstone Arts, Didcot Oxfordshire
31st January - Anvil Arts, Basingstoke
5th March - Spring Theatre, Hampshire
7th March - Theatre On The Steps, Bridnorth, West Midlands
"Jo Harman mixes intimate ballads, energetic rock, soul, blues, acoustic and gospel, brought together by the magic of a music that is at once classic, innovative and timeless."
- Le Voix Du Nord, French Newspaper
"How vocally striking is Jo Harman? If Judie Tzuke did roots/ soul it’s hard to conceive of it being any better than this. Such comparisons however are becoming redundant because Jo Harman is a singer with her own voice – and plenty to say."
- FabricationsHQ
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Official release spring of 2020 (tbc) in Vinyl, CD/DVD (Including videos of each song and mini documentary) and CD only.
Produced by Jo Harman and Stefan Redtenbacher
Pre-order details: www.joharman.com/shop
Jo Harman – vocals
Stefan Redtenbacher – bass, bandleader
Mike Outram – guitar, backing vocals
Ross Stanley – Hammond organ, Fender Rhodes
Mike Sturgis – drums, percussion
James Welch – backing vocals
Track Listing:
Don't Let Me Down (Lennon - McCartney)
Keep You Guessing (Harman - McEwan)
The Angel Leaves Her Watermark (Wood)
Say That You Want Me (Harman - Davies)
Loving Arms (Jans)
Jo Harman - confirmed 2020 shows
22nd January - Under The Bridge, London (co-headliner with Mike Farris for London Blues Month)
23rd January - Silsden Town Hall, Yorkshire
25th January - Cornerstone Arts, Didcot Oxfordshire
31st January - Anvil Arts, Basingstoke
5th March - Spring Theatre, Hampshire
7th March - Theatre On The Steps, Bridnorth, West Midlands
"Jo Harman mixes intimate ballads, energetic rock, soul, blues, acoustic and gospel, brought together by the magic of a music that is at once classic, innovative and timeless."
- Le Voix Du Nord, French Newspaper
"How vocally striking is Jo Harman? If Judie Tzuke did roots/ soul it’s hard to conceive of it being any better than this. Such comparisons however are becoming redundant because Jo Harman is a singer with her own voice – and plenty to say."
- FabricationsHQ
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Eddie Martin’s new album Thirst is well named, given the unquenching appetite the British blues musician, singer and songwriter has for his passion – 200 published songs thus far and now studio album number twelve.
It’s also musically reconfirms Eddie Martin’s drive and determination to continue to deliver while getting better each time around.
Thirst is a collective repertoire of blues boogie, mambo, funk, shuffles, slow blues and a surprise or two.
Lyrically, Eddie Martin runs the gamut of extremes from the humorous 'Sewn Up' ("If nip and tuck doesn’t change our luck, we get some more if we’ve got the bucks") to the thought provoking, as heard on 'Free Man Blues,' a homeless war-vet’s take on Freedom ("you know that freedoms deep, it’s not just a simple treat,
it talks of others that you might not meet, who had theirs stolen in their sleep."
Other standout tracks include the eight minute 'Like Water,' dark, seven minute blues rumba 'Frozen Lake' (Ry Cooder slide meets Nick Cave poetry) and the mid-tempo blues harp and boogie of single, 'One Man Band'...
It’s also musically reconfirms Eddie Martin’s drive and determination to continue to deliver while getting better each time around.
Thirst is a collective repertoire of blues boogie, mambo, funk, shuffles, slow blues and a surprise or two.
Lyrically, Eddie Martin runs the gamut of extremes from the humorous 'Sewn Up' ("If nip and tuck doesn’t change our luck, we get some more if we’ve got the bucks") to the thought provoking, as heard on 'Free Man Blues,' a homeless war-vet’s take on Freedom ("you know that freedoms deep, it’s not just a simple treat,
it talks of others that you might not meet, who had theirs stolen in their sleep."
Other standout tracks include the eight minute 'Like Water,' dark, seven minute blues rumba 'Frozen Lake' (Ry Cooder slide meets Nick Cave poetry) and the mid-tempo blues harp and boogie of single, 'One Man Band'...
Thirst is released on Friday 6th December on Blueblood Records, distributed by Cadiz Records.
Look out for FabricationsHQ’s review later in the month.
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Look out for FabricationsHQ’s review later in the month.
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Piston, the five piece rock n roll band from the West Midlands, have just released their cover of Slade’s iconic rock 1972 single 'Mama Weer All Crazee Now' accompanied by a music video that features what will be a few familiar faces to those that follow and support the New Wave of Classic Rock, contemporary rock and blues rock…
The Crazee end of year fun that is their Christmas single wraps up what has been a great year for Piston.
The band, who released their self titled debut earlier in the year, made such a great impression on the Rising Stage at Ramblin’ Man Fair in July that the organisers have invited them back to play the Grooverider Stage in 2020.
They also had two singles, 'One More Day' and 'Rainmaker,' played on UK rock radio.
Piston embarked on a UK tour with Collateral in September followed by the Planet Rock Roadstars UK tour (with Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin’ Stones and Gorilla Riot) in October; later that month they supported The Cult on their Sonic Temple UK tour.
November saw the band, along with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, support Glenn Hughes on his Classic Deep Purple Live tour of the UK.
"2019 has been an incredible year for Piston," says guitarist Jack Edwards. "We wanted to pay respect to one our favourite bands, Slade, who also come from the same neck of the woods in Wolverhampton.
This Christmas single is a thank you to everyone who supported us this year!"
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The band, who released their self titled debut earlier in the year, made such a great impression on the Rising Stage at Ramblin’ Man Fair in July that the organisers have invited them back to play the Grooverider Stage in 2020.
They also had two singles, 'One More Day' and 'Rainmaker,' played on UK rock radio.
Piston embarked on a UK tour with Collateral in September followed by the Planet Rock Roadstars UK tour (with Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin’ Stones and Gorilla Riot) in October; later that month they supported The Cult on their Sonic Temple UK tour.
November saw the band, along with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, support Glenn Hughes on his Classic Deep Purple Live tour of the UK.
"2019 has been an incredible year for Piston," says guitarist Jack Edwards. "We wanted to pay respect to one our favourite bands, Slade, who also come from the same neck of the woods in Wolverhampton.
This Christmas single is a thank you to everyone who supported us this year!"
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Scottish contemporary rock outfit Anchor Lane have released the title track from their forthcoming debut album Casino; it follows the well-received single 'Fame Shame,' which will also feature on the album.
The title track is now available from all major digital and streaming services ahead of the album’s official release on 31st January 2020.
The title track is now available from all major digital and streaming services ahead of the album’s official release on 31st January 2020.
Casino is a particularly strong and weighty debut album from Anchor Lane (Conor Gaffney - vocals, guitar, Lawrence O’ Brien - guitar, Matthew Quigley - bass, Scott Hanlon - drums).
Written by the band in Glasgow, the album was recorded at Vale Studios in the Midlands with renowned musician, songwriter and producer Toby Jepson (Wayward Sons, Gun, Little Angels).
On working with Toby Jepson Anchor Lane front man Conor Gaffney said "We learned so much from Toby. His ability to take a song and flip it on its head was so inspiring to us."
Additionally, Ricky Warwick (Black Star Riders, The Almighty) co-wrote two tracks on the album.
On writing with Warwick, Lawrence O’Brien noted that "Ricky’s direct approach to song writing was fascinating. He taught us to accept the simplicities and imperfections in the songs and it made them stronger."
Nor do the band shy away from tackling difficult subjects – the lyrical themes on Casino include toxic relationships, addiction and the death of a close friend while the album’s title is a metaphor for the gamble that is the ever-changing music industry, as Matthew Quigley explains:
"We called the album Casino because in this industry you either go all in or you leave the table.
We gladly left our jobs to concentrate on writing the album. It’s a high-risk high-reward gamble but we’re here for the right reasons."
"Anchor Lane are everything a rock band should be. They have attitude, ability, swagger and most importantly songs… their passport to a very bright future is assured."
- Ricky Warwick
"Before I commit to working with a band, I need to get a sense of whether they have a genuine vision and something to say. When I heard the demos I knew there was some intuitive and intelligent writing going on."
- Toby Jepson
"Anchor Lane showed, in extremely confident style, why they may yet come out as big winners from the Casino of rock and roll; it’s certainly no less than their hard work, determination, ability and weighty song prowess deserve."
- FabricationsHQ, Anchor Lane's 11-10-19 Glasgow show
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Written by the band in Glasgow, the album was recorded at Vale Studios in the Midlands with renowned musician, songwriter and producer Toby Jepson (Wayward Sons, Gun, Little Angels).
On working with Toby Jepson Anchor Lane front man Conor Gaffney said "We learned so much from Toby. His ability to take a song and flip it on its head was so inspiring to us."
Additionally, Ricky Warwick (Black Star Riders, The Almighty) co-wrote two tracks on the album.
On writing with Warwick, Lawrence O’Brien noted that "Ricky’s direct approach to song writing was fascinating. He taught us to accept the simplicities and imperfections in the songs and it made them stronger."
Nor do the band shy away from tackling difficult subjects – the lyrical themes on Casino include toxic relationships, addiction and the death of a close friend while the album’s title is a metaphor for the gamble that is the ever-changing music industry, as Matthew Quigley explains:
"We called the album Casino because in this industry you either go all in or you leave the table.
We gladly left our jobs to concentrate on writing the album. It’s a high-risk high-reward gamble but we’re here for the right reasons."
"Anchor Lane are everything a rock band should be. They have attitude, ability, swagger and most importantly songs… their passport to a very bright future is assured."
- Ricky Warwick
"Before I commit to working with a band, I need to get a sense of whether they have a genuine vision and something to say. When I heard the demos I knew there was some intuitive and intelligent writing going on."
- Toby Jepson
"Anchor Lane showed, in extremely confident style, why they may yet come out as big winners from the Casino of rock and roll; it’s certainly no less than their hard work, determination, ability and weighty song prowess deserve."
- FabricationsHQ, Anchor Lane's 11-10-19 Glasgow show
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Kent based rock and roll quartet Collateral are set to release their eponymous debut album on February 21, 2020. The album is released by Roulette Media Records and distributed worldwide through Cargo.
The album is available for pre-order now from www.collateralofficial.com
When fans pre-order the album they will automatically get a free MP3 download of 'Lullaby: Live at The Blackheart' recorded in Camden Town, London earlier this year.
Collateral are also special guests on Jared James Nichols’ February and March 2020 UK tour.
Tickets are available from www.collateralofficial.com/live-dates.html
Collateral have been busy since the release of their debut EP 4 Shots! which was released in 2018 and featured the single 'Midnight Queen' (which will also appear on the debut album).
After the release of the EP the band won a Camden Rocks Festival competition to play the main stage at the Electric Ballroom on June 1, 2019. A few months later, they won a competition between 40 bands at the Ramblin’ Man Rumble to play the Rising Stage at the Ramblin’ Man Fair festival.
One of their most exciting achievements in 2019 was when they won a competition to support Jon Bon Jovi on his Runaway to Paradise Mediterranean Cruise in August; they followed up on those festival and event appearances with the release of the single 'Mr. Big Shot.'
The album is available for pre-order now from www.collateralofficial.com
When fans pre-order the album they will automatically get a free MP3 download of 'Lullaby: Live at The Blackheart' recorded in Camden Town, London earlier this year.
Collateral are also special guests on Jared James Nichols’ February and March 2020 UK tour.
Tickets are available from www.collateralofficial.com/live-dates.html
Collateral have been busy since the release of their debut EP 4 Shots! which was released in 2018 and featured the single 'Midnight Queen' (which will also appear on the debut album).
After the release of the EP the band won a Camden Rocks Festival competition to play the main stage at the Electric Ballroom on June 1, 2019. A few months later, they won a competition between 40 bands at the Ramblin’ Man Rumble to play the Rising Stage at the Ramblin’ Man Fair festival.
One of their most exciting achievements in 2019 was when they won a competition to support Jon Bon Jovi on his Runaway to Paradise Mediterranean Cruise in August; they followed up on those festival and event appearances with the release of the single 'Mr. Big Shot.'
Collateral have been tight-lipped about the new songs but front man Angelo Tristan has hinted at just what the fans can expect:
"We wanted to stay away from the normal rules that apply to what you can and cannot put on an album" commented Tristan, continuing that "the album contains all of our inspirations, and nothing has been diluted. I’m very influenced by country music which is evident in the song About This Boy.
Jack is heavily influenced by 80’s rock on tracks like Mr. Big Shot and Promiseland. One of the more Southern style tracks on the album is Merry-Go-Round. It’s a reflection of Todd’s inspiration from bands that include Black Stone Cherry and Cadillac Three. Our drummer, Ben, comes from a far heavier metal background which really gives the songs their powerful edge.
The recording of this album was an amazing experience and I hope the fans will share the same excitement we had when we made the album.”
Collateral
Ben Atkinson (drums)
Todd Winger (guitar)
Angelo Tristan (vocals, guitar)
Jack Bentley-Smith (bass)
Track listing:
1. Mr. Big Shot; Promiseland; Merry Go Round; In it For Love; Lullaby; Midnight Queen; Get Back to You; Won’t Stop Me Dreaming; About This Boy.
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"We wanted to stay away from the normal rules that apply to what you can and cannot put on an album" commented Tristan, continuing that "the album contains all of our inspirations, and nothing has been diluted. I’m very influenced by country music which is evident in the song About This Boy.
Jack is heavily influenced by 80’s rock on tracks like Mr. Big Shot and Promiseland. One of the more Southern style tracks on the album is Merry-Go-Round. It’s a reflection of Todd’s inspiration from bands that include Black Stone Cherry and Cadillac Three. Our drummer, Ben, comes from a far heavier metal background which really gives the songs their powerful edge.
The recording of this album was an amazing experience and I hope the fans will share the same excitement we had when we made the album.”
Collateral
Ben Atkinson (drums)
Todd Winger (guitar)
Angelo Tristan (vocals, guitar)
Jack Bentley-Smith (bass)
Track listing:
1. Mr. Big Shot; Promiseland; Merry Go Round; In it For Love; Lullaby; Midnight Queen; Get Back to You; Won’t Stop Me Dreaming; About This Boy.
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On December 2nd, 2009 – just fourteen months before his tragic death aged 58 – Gary Moore played a special one-off club show at London’s Islington Academy.
Now, 10 years later, Provogue/ MLG (Mascot Label Group) will be making the never previously released recording available as Live From London on the 31st January 2020.
The 2009 performance catches Gary Moore at the height of his blues prowess, with a set list that includes classics such as his cover of 'Oh Pretty Woman,' 'Parisienne Walkways,' 'I'll Love You More Than You'll Ever Know' and 'Still Got The Blues.'
Live From London is a testament to one of the greatest and beloved guitarists of all time; it will be available on Orange Marble 2LP (Limited to 500 and exclusive to MLG), Blue 2LP (including MP3 download) and Limited CD Box Set (including coasters, sticker, postcard and guitar picks).
You can listen to 'Oh Pretty Woman' and Pre-order here: http://smarturl.it/garymoore
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Now, 10 years later, Provogue/ MLG (Mascot Label Group) will be making the never previously released recording available as Live From London on the 31st January 2020.
The 2009 performance catches Gary Moore at the height of his blues prowess, with a set list that includes classics such as his cover of 'Oh Pretty Woman,' 'Parisienne Walkways,' 'I'll Love You More Than You'll Ever Know' and 'Still Got The Blues.'
Live From London is a testament to one of the greatest and beloved guitarists of all time; it will be available on Orange Marble 2LP (Limited to 500 and exclusive to MLG), Blue 2LP (including MP3 download) and Limited CD Box Set (including coasters, sticker, postcard and guitar picks).
You can listen to 'Oh Pretty Woman' and Pre-order here: http://smarturl.it/garymoore
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Off the back of his most successful solo tour yet Steve Hackett has announced that his 2020/21 World Tour will feature the whole of the 1977 Genesis live album Seconds Out in full, plus more!
Seconds Out was the hugely successful double album recorded on Genesis’ 1977 concert tour together with 'The Cinema Show,' from their 1976 tour; it featured Steve Hackett on guitar alongside Mike Rutherford, Tony Banks and Phil Collins who had taken on the role of vocalist following the departure of Peter Gabriel.
The tour included music from each of the six studio albums from Steve Hackett's time in Genesis and marked his final recordings with the band as he left to pursue his solo career upon its completion.
The Seconds Out + More! Tour will visit some of the venues Genesis played on that 1977 tour; there will also be additional material including Steve’s solo concert favourite 'The Steppes,' to celebrate the 40th birthday of his fourth solo album Defector.
"I’m thrilled to bring Seconds Out back to life, featuring Genesis material at its most exciting and virtuosic, this time with all numbers played in full plus additional surprises!" - Steve Hackett.
Tickets for the Seconds Out + More! Tour go on sale at 10am on Friday 29th November from https://myticket.co.uk/ and venue box offices.
Seconds Out was the hugely successful double album recorded on Genesis’ 1977 concert tour together with 'The Cinema Show,' from their 1976 tour; it featured Steve Hackett on guitar alongside Mike Rutherford, Tony Banks and Phil Collins who had taken on the role of vocalist following the departure of Peter Gabriel.
The tour included music from each of the six studio albums from Steve Hackett's time in Genesis and marked his final recordings with the band as he left to pursue his solo career upon its completion.
The Seconds Out + More! Tour will visit some of the venues Genesis played on that 1977 tour; there will also be additional material including Steve’s solo concert favourite 'The Steppes,' to celebrate the 40th birthday of his fourth solo album Defector.
"I’m thrilled to bring Seconds Out back to life, featuring Genesis material at its most exciting and virtuosic, this time with all numbers played in full plus additional surprises!" - Steve Hackett.
Tickets for the Seconds Out + More! Tour go on sale at 10am on Friday 29th November from https://myticket.co.uk/ and venue box offices.
After leaving Genesis at the end of 1977, Steve Hackett’s solo career, which now spans more than 30 albums, has demonstrated his extraordinary versatility with both electric and acoustic guitar.
Steve Hackett’s compositions take influences from many genres including jazz, classical and blues; for his most recent studio works, The Night Siren (2017) and At The Edge Of Light (2019), the guitarist explored the influences of world music.
Recent tours have seen Steve Hackett celebrate his time with Genesis including a spectacular 2018 tour in which he realised a long-held ambition to perform the works of Genesis live with his band and an orchestra.
Reviews from the current Genesis Revisited : Selling England By the Pound Tour:
"Hackett's guitar effortlessly carves a path through the songs mixing melodic lines with experimentation and flat out rock... the individual personalities of the band also shine throughout…"
Stuart Avis - The Brighton Magazine
"a great riff, great lyrics and another guitar solo to die for... the magic seems never-ending..."
Alan Jones - Getreadytorock
"complex time changes and elaborate melodies were recreated by Hackett’s superb band with verve and skill. Hackett may well be the best guitarist around. Oh, and a great light show too. Obviously."
S Copeland - Brighton Argus
"This is a consummately highly talented group of musicians, possibly the best working band currently playing anywhere in the world. Seriously."
Paul H Birch - Ramzine
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Steve Hackett’s compositions take influences from many genres including jazz, classical and blues; for his most recent studio works, The Night Siren (2017) and At The Edge Of Light (2019), the guitarist explored the influences of world music.
Recent tours have seen Steve Hackett celebrate his time with Genesis including a spectacular 2018 tour in which he realised a long-held ambition to perform the works of Genesis live with his band and an orchestra.
Reviews from the current Genesis Revisited : Selling England By the Pound Tour:
"Hackett's guitar effortlessly carves a path through the songs mixing melodic lines with experimentation and flat out rock... the individual personalities of the band also shine throughout…"
Stuart Avis - The Brighton Magazine
"a great riff, great lyrics and another guitar solo to die for... the magic seems never-ending..."
Alan Jones - Getreadytorock
"complex time changes and elaborate melodies were recreated by Hackett’s superb band with verve and skill. Hackett may well be the best guitarist around. Oh, and a great light show too. Obviously."
S Copeland - Brighton Argus
"This is a consummately highly talented group of musicians, possibly the best working band currently playing anywhere in the world. Seriously."
Paul H Birch - Ramzine
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Ian Anderson and the Jethro Tull band have announced they will return to the road with The Prog Years Tour 2020 with eleven dates in the UK at the end of September and through October.
As the name suggests this tour will draw heavily on material from Jethro Tull’s more progressive albums with much of the set focusing on the early, heavy hitters of the Tull catalogue and albums such as Stand Up, Benefit, Aqualung, Thick As a Brick and Passion Play; there will also be a touch of Thick As a Brick 2, the 40 years on sequel album by Ian Anderson.
Of the songs and tour Ian Anderson says "Dusting off many older, 'progressive' songs amongst my earliest attempts to experiment outside the blues repertoire we began with, has proved hugely enjoyable.
Along the way, over the last fifty years, there have been a good few pieces that still strongly resonate with me today on either a musical or lyrical level.
Some are really tricky to play; some might sound that way but fall under the fingers quite naturally although the overall arrangements require feats of memory! Test my marbles; come to the party!"
Ian Anderson will be accompanied by Jethro Tull band musicians David Goodier (bass), John O'Hara (keyboards), Joe Parrish (guitars) and Scott Hammond (drums).
The shows will also be enhanced by full scale video projection.
Tickets are on sale now from the venues direct and: https://www.gigantic.com/jethro-tull-tickets
As the name suggests this tour will draw heavily on material from Jethro Tull’s more progressive albums with much of the set focusing on the early, heavy hitters of the Tull catalogue and albums such as Stand Up, Benefit, Aqualung, Thick As a Brick and Passion Play; there will also be a touch of Thick As a Brick 2, the 40 years on sequel album by Ian Anderson.
Of the songs and tour Ian Anderson says "Dusting off many older, 'progressive' songs amongst my earliest attempts to experiment outside the blues repertoire we began with, has proved hugely enjoyable.
Along the way, over the last fifty years, there have been a good few pieces that still strongly resonate with me today on either a musical or lyrical level.
Some are really tricky to play; some might sound that way but fall under the fingers quite naturally although the overall arrangements require feats of memory! Test my marbles; come to the party!"
Ian Anderson will be accompanied by Jethro Tull band musicians David Goodier (bass), John O'Hara (keyboards), Joe Parrish (guitars) and Scott Hammond (drums).
The shows will also be enhanced by full scale video projection.
Tickets are on sale now from the venues direct and: https://www.gigantic.com/jethro-tull-tickets
Ian Anderson will also be appearing at a number of smaller venues for a more intimate evening of chat and archive video footage about his career and the history of Jethro Tull.
Anderson will be accompanied by guitarist Joe Parrish to play a few songs at these events while the audience will be invited to pose interesting and challenging questions.
Tickets are expected to go on sale in late November. Please check www.jethrotull.com for more info.
Jethro Tull’s debut album This Was received favourable reviews and sold well upon its release in 1968.
The band’s commercial break though came the following year when the song 'Living In The Past,' with its unusual 5/4 time signature, reached number 11 in the UK Singles chart; an appearance on Top Of The Pops, performing the number 4 hit 'The Witch’s Promise' brought Jethro Tull to a much wider audience.
With albums such as Stand Up, Benefit, Aqualung and Thick As a Brick Jethro Tull went on to become one of the most distinctive and original bands to fall under the progressive rock umbrella; they remain one of the best-loved bands of the genre.
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Anderson will be accompanied by guitarist Joe Parrish to play a few songs at these events while the audience will be invited to pose interesting and challenging questions.
Tickets are expected to go on sale in late November. Please check www.jethrotull.com for more info.
Jethro Tull’s debut album This Was received favourable reviews and sold well upon its release in 1968.
The band’s commercial break though came the following year when the song 'Living In The Past,' with its unusual 5/4 time signature, reached number 11 in the UK Singles chart; an appearance on Top Of The Pops, performing the number 4 hit 'The Witch’s Promise' brought Jethro Tull to a much wider audience.
With albums such as Stand Up, Benefit, Aqualung and Thick As a Brick Jethro Tull went on to become one of the most distinctive and original bands to fall under the progressive rock umbrella; they remain one of the best-loved bands of the genre.
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Yeah, I know it’s only November but Christmas is everywhere, whether you be in full snowman building, Christmas tree dressing mode (or mood) or more simpatico with Scrooge and Humbugs.
And, frankly, Samantha Fish putting her own, distinct take on 'Run Run Rudolph' and 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),' two of the acclaimed roots-blues singer-guitarist’s favourite holiday tunes, is worth a listen any month of the year.
"Run Run Rudolph is always such an upbeat song, we thought it would be cool to dip it in some noir," laughs Samantha Fish while giving her thoughts on her two new recordings; "I think it gave it a unique character that's different from everything out there. I chose Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) because of my love for all things '60s soul. It's the biggest rock 'n' roll Christmas song ever, and being a Darlene Love fan, I wanted a chance to put my heart and soul into it..."
And, frankly, Samantha Fish putting her own, distinct take on 'Run Run Rudolph' and 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),' two of the acclaimed roots-blues singer-guitarist’s favourite holiday tunes, is worth a listen any month of the year.
"Run Run Rudolph is always such an upbeat song, we thought it would be cool to dip it in some noir," laughs Samantha Fish while giving her thoughts on her two new recordings; "I think it gave it a unique character that's different from everything out there. I chose Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) because of my love for all things '60s soul. It's the biggest rock 'n' roll Christmas song ever, and being a Darlene Love fan, I wanted a chance to put my heart and soul into it..."
Samantha will be on tour in the UK in February/March 2020, with Special Guest Felix Rabin.
St Lukes, Glasgow - Friday 28 February
Brudenell Social Club, Leeds - Saturday 29 February
Rescue Rooms, Nottingham - Sunday 1 March
Gorilla, Manchester - Tuesday 3 March
The Globe, Cardiff - Wednesday 4 March
Islington Assembly Hall, London - Thursday 5 March
The Waterfront, Norwich - Friday 6 March
Trinity, Bristol - Saturday 7 March
Concorde, Brighton - Sunday 8 March
Tickets: www.alttickets.com www.gigantic.com
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St Lukes, Glasgow - Friday 28 February
Brudenell Social Club, Leeds - Saturday 29 February
Rescue Rooms, Nottingham - Sunday 1 March
Gorilla, Manchester - Tuesday 3 March
The Globe, Cardiff - Wednesday 4 March
Islington Assembly Hall, London - Thursday 5 March
The Waterfront, Norwich - Friday 6 March
Trinity, Bristol - Saturday 7 March
Concorde, Brighton - Sunday 8 March
Tickets: www.alttickets.com www.gigantic.com
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If any 2019 album comes under the recording moniker of "labour of love" it's Seamus O’Boogie by family based group the Seamus McGarvey Band.
The blues, country and rock 'n' roll covers album is the culmination of a long-standing idea that came from Irish musician Pat McGarvey (Southern Tenant Folk Union, The Arlenes) to involve his brother John (Johnny Marvel's Blues Groove) and their dad Seamus in the making of a studio record, something they'd never done despite decades of playing together.
However it was only after the recent passing of Seamus's older brother John, his sister Colette and Pat's father-in-law Ronnie Arnott that the idea became fully realised, with the help of two celebrated Edinburgh (where the album was recorded) musicians, guitarist Jed Potts (Blueswater, The Hillman Hunters) and drummer/ percussionist Calum McIntyre (Adam Holmes Band, Karine Polwart, Bombskare).
In a short timescale 16 tracks were laid down, all done live with just a few takes of each song.
Additionally, with the help of mastering engineer Mark Lord, an old cassette recording from 1983 helped to bring Pat McGarvey’s late Uncle John into this newly recorded studio setting, with a cleaned up sound and accompaniment form Seamus McGarvey on vocals.
Seamus McGarvey’s wide musical tastes are well catered for and covered on the album, from Irish traditional and country & western to blues, rock 'n' roll, R&B and gospel - and a little bit of Bo Diddley beat styled Seamus O’Boogie…
The blues, country and rock 'n' roll covers album is the culmination of a long-standing idea that came from Irish musician Pat McGarvey (Southern Tenant Folk Union, The Arlenes) to involve his brother John (Johnny Marvel's Blues Groove) and their dad Seamus in the making of a studio record, something they'd never done despite decades of playing together.
However it was only after the recent passing of Seamus's older brother John, his sister Colette and Pat's father-in-law Ronnie Arnott that the idea became fully realised, with the help of two celebrated Edinburgh (where the album was recorded) musicians, guitarist Jed Potts (Blueswater, The Hillman Hunters) and drummer/ percussionist Calum McIntyre (Adam Holmes Band, Karine Polwart, Bombskare).
In a short timescale 16 tracks were laid down, all done live with just a few takes of each song.
Additionally, with the help of mastering engineer Mark Lord, an old cassette recording from 1983 helped to bring Pat McGarvey’s late Uncle John into this newly recorded studio setting, with a cleaned up sound and accompaniment form Seamus McGarvey on vocals.
Seamus McGarvey’s wide musical tastes are well catered for and covered on the album, from Irish traditional and country & western to blues, rock 'n' roll, R&B and gospel - and a little bit of Bo Diddley beat styled Seamus O’Boogie…
Seamus O'Boogie is available now on Johnny Rock Records.
The Seamus McGarvey Band are:
Seamus McGarvey – lead vocals, rhythm guitar; John McGarvey – harmonica; Pat McGarvey - bass guitar, 5 string banjo, backing vocals; Jed Potts - rhythm & lead guitar; Calum McIntyre - drums, washboard & percussion
You can read a full review of the album by Iain Cameron of Blues Enthused on the FabricationsHQ Album Reviews page: http://www.fabricationshq.com/2019-reviews.html
A review of the self-titled, 50s inspired US blues/ R&B album from Jed Potts and the Hillman Hunters can be found here: http://www.fabricationshq.com/2018-reviews.html
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The Seamus McGarvey Band are:
Seamus McGarvey – lead vocals, rhythm guitar; John McGarvey – harmonica; Pat McGarvey - bass guitar, 5 string banjo, backing vocals; Jed Potts - rhythm & lead guitar; Calum McIntyre - drums, washboard & percussion
You can read a full review of the album by Iain Cameron of Blues Enthused on the FabricationsHQ Album Reviews page: http://www.fabricationshq.com/2019-reviews.html
A review of the self-titled, 50s inspired US blues/ R&B album from Jed Potts and the Hillman Hunters can be found here: http://www.fabricationshq.com/2018-reviews.html
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Sons Of Apollo, featuring former Dream Theater members Mike Portnoy and Derek Sherinian, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (ex-Guns N’ Roses), Billy Sheehan (The Winery Dogs, Mr. Big) and Jeff Scott Soto (solo, ex-Journey, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force) will release their second studio album MMXX on January 17th on InsideOutMusic/Sony.
The lead single and opening track from the album, 'Goodbye Divinity,' has just been released, complete with Vicente Cordero directed video.
The album, follow-up to the critically acclaimed debut Psychotic Symphony, will be available as a standard CD, Limited Edition 2 CD package (which includes instrumental mixes and a cappella excerpts), 2 LP + CD package and on all digital formats.
Pre-orders are available now at https://soa.lnk.to/MMXX
Digital pre-orders on iTunes & Amazon receiving an immediate download of 'Goodbye Divinity.'
Mike Portnoy comments: "From the minute we finished writing Goodbye Divinity, I knew we had our album opener and the first release off the album. I even remember posting on social media how excited I was about the song the day I tracked it! The song has an immediacy that grabs you right away: great riffs, flashy playing and hooky vocal melodies. All of the elements that make up the SOA sound.
The video was directed by Vicente Cordero who I have now done over twenty music videos with and its look helps catapult the band from the Greek mythological past of the last album into the 21st century with this new album."
The lead single and opening track from the album, 'Goodbye Divinity,' has just been released, complete with Vicente Cordero directed video.
The album, follow-up to the critically acclaimed debut Psychotic Symphony, will be available as a standard CD, Limited Edition 2 CD package (which includes instrumental mixes and a cappella excerpts), 2 LP + CD package and on all digital formats.
Pre-orders are available now at https://soa.lnk.to/MMXX
Digital pre-orders on iTunes & Amazon receiving an immediate download of 'Goodbye Divinity.'
Mike Portnoy comments: "From the minute we finished writing Goodbye Divinity, I knew we had our album opener and the first release off the album. I even remember posting on social media how excited I was about the song the day I tracked it! The song has an immediacy that grabs you right away: great riffs, flashy playing and hooky vocal melodies. All of the elements that make up the SOA sound.
The video was directed by Vicente Cordero who I have now done over twenty music videos with and its look helps catapult the band from the Greek mythological past of the last album into the 21st century with this new album."
"Stylistically, we have followed the same path as the debut" continues Mike Portnoy, "but we feel that it has come out stronger, simply because we know one another better. Psychotic Symphony was the first time the five of us had worked together, so there was bound to be an air of experimentation happening.
Now, we can draw on having the experience not only of recording that album, but also of touring together a lot. And now there is clearly a lot more obvious chemistry going on."
Adds Derek Sherinian "Each member of this band has their own signature sound on their instrument, and when you put all of this together what you get is a wonderful five-headed beast.
It makes this a sonically special band, which is definitely what comes across on MMXX. You can hear odd time signatures and amazingly crazy performances here.
Overall, we've been satisfyingly more adventurous this time than we were before, and I know people are sure to love what we've done."
MMXX contains eight tracks, including 16 minute closing number, 'New World Today.'
Of the song, Portnoy says "This one has elements similar to 'Opus Maximus' and 'Labyrinth' on the previous album. It has some insane, brilliant instrumental moments, which I am sure the fans will love!"
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Now, we can draw on having the experience not only of recording that album, but also of touring together a lot. And now there is clearly a lot more obvious chemistry going on."
Adds Derek Sherinian "Each member of this band has their own signature sound on their instrument, and when you put all of this together what you get is a wonderful five-headed beast.
It makes this a sonically special band, which is definitely what comes across on MMXX. You can hear odd time signatures and amazingly crazy performances here.
Overall, we've been satisfyingly more adventurous this time than we were before, and I know people are sure to love what we've done."
MMXX contains eight tracks, including 16 minute closing number, 'New World Today.'
Of the song, Portnoy says "This one has elements similar to 'Opus Maximus' and 'Labyrinth' on the previous album. It has some insane, brilliant instrumental moments, which I am sure the fans will love!"
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Ben Poole will release the 2-Disc live album Trio /// Live ‘19 on Friday 31st January 2020.
The album is available to pre-order at www.benpooleband.com/shop
Recorded in July at Barnsley’s Old Schoolhouse, the Half Moon in Putney and Kendal’s Bootlegger’s Bar,
Trio /// Live ‘19 collects over 90 minutes of Ben Poole (vocals, guitar) and his band of Wayne Proctor (drums) and Steve Amadeo (bass) at their live best.
The set list includes some of Ben Poole’s most popular songs from his last two studio albums, 2016’s Time Has Come (including a powerful fifteen minute take of 'Time Might Never Come') and the critically acclaimed Anytime You Need Me, the latter offering up 'Take it No More,' 'Don’t Cry For Me,' the title track and Jude Cole’s 'Start the Car.'
Other covers featured are Mark Knopfler’s 'I Think I Love You Too Much,' which first appeared on Time Has Come, and one of Ben Poole’s showcase blues pieces, 'Have You Ever Loved a Woman.'
Trio /// Live ’19 is Ben Poole’s second live album, following 2014’s Live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Ben Poole – Trio /// Live ‘19
Disc one: Intro; Take It No More; Win You Over; Start The Car; Have You Ever Loved A Woman; The Question Why; Further On Down The Line; Don’t Cry For Me.
Disc Two: Lying To Me; I Think I Love You Too Much; Found Out The Hard Way; Stay At Mine; Anytime You Need Me; Time Might Never Come.
Recorded by Andrew Banfield; Mixed and Mastered by Wayne Proctor at Superfly Studios; Audio Editing by Oli Brown.
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The album is available to pre-order at www.benpooleband.com/shop
Recorded in July at Barnsley’s Old Schoolhouse, the Half Moon in Putney and Kendal’s Bootlegger’s Bar,
Trio /// Live ‘19 collects over 90 minutes of Ben Poole (vocals, guitar) and his band of Wayne Proctor (drums) and Steve Amadeo (bass) at their live best.
The set list includes some of Ben Poole’s most popular songs from his last two studio albums, 2016’s Time Has Come (including a powerful fifteen minute take of 'Time Might Never Come') and the critically acclaimed Anytime You Need Me, the latter offering up 'Take it No More,' 'Don’t Cry For Me,' the title track and Jude Cole’s 'Start the Car.'
Other covers featured are Mark Knopfler’s 'I Think I Love You Too Much,' which first appeared on Time Has Come, and one of Ben Poole’s showcase blues pieces, 'Have You Ever Loved a Woman.'
Trio /// Live ’19 is Ben Poole’s second live album, following 2014’s Live at The Royal Albert Hall.
Ben Poole – Trio /// Live ‘19
Disc one: Intro; Take It No More; Win You Over; Start The Car; Have You Ever Loved A Woman; The Question Why; Further On Down The Line; Don’t Cry For Me.
Disc Two: Lying To Me; I Think I Love You Too Much; Found Out The Hard Way; Stay At Mine; Anytime You Need Me; Time Might Never Come.
Recorded by Andrew Banfield; Mixed and Mastered by Wayne Proctor at Superfly Studios; Audio Editing by Oli Brown.
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Rock guitar virtuoso, Joe Satriani, has announced six UK dates as part of his extensive European Tour through April May and June 2020 in support of his upcoming, seventeenth solo album.
The Shapeshifting Tour’s six-date UK run will start at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea (May 22nd and finish at the Birmingham Symphony Hall (May 28th).
The tour will feature songs from the new studio album, which will be released by Sony/Legacy in April 2020.
Joe Satriani and his band (Kenny Aronoff - drums, Bryan Beller – bass, Rai Thistlethwayte – keys) will also be performing many Satch classics and fan-favourites including 'Surfing With The Alien,' 'Always with Me, Always with You' and 'Flying in a Blue Dream.'
Exclusive Planet Rock 48-Hour Ticket Pre-sale starts Wednesday 13th November at: www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
Tickets will be on sale to the General Public from Friday 15th November via www.alttickets.com and www.satriani.com
The Shapeshifting Tour’s six-date UK run will start at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea (May 22nd and finish at the Birmingham Symphony Hall (May 28th).
The tour will feature songs from the new studio album, which will be released by Sony/Legacy in April 2020.
Joe Satriani and his band (Kenny Aronoff - drums, Bryan Beller – bass, Rai Thistlethwayte – keys) will also be performing many Satch classics and fan-favourites including 'Surfing With The Alien,' 'Always with Me, Always with You' and 'Flying in a Blue Dream.'
Exclusive Planet Rock 48-Hour Ticket Pre-sale starts Wednesday 13th November at: www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
Tickets will be on sale to the General Public from Friday 15th November via www.alttickets.com and www.satriani.com
For two decades Joe Satriani has played to sold-out crowds across the world as both a headliner and founder of the all-star G3 guitar extravaganza.
His studio and live recordings have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide with 15 Grammy nominations between them; two have gone platinum and four others gold.
His side project, Chickenfoot, featuring former Van Halen front man Sammy Hagar, former bassist Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Chad Smith saw their debut album certified gold and their second studio album debuted at #9.
Since the 2017 release of his What Happens Next album Joe Satriani has toured his G3 Guitar Extravaganza worldwide to critical acclaim; he later embarked on the Experience Hendrix US tour.
Recent release Squares was a collection of previously unreleased material by his first, pre-fame band, Squares; another upcoming collectible is the re-release of his classic 1987 album Surfing With The Alien, which will include new artwork and a bonus disc, Stripped – the Backing Tracks (featuring the songs with all guitar solos removed).
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His studio and live recordings have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide with 15 Grammy nominations between them; two have gone platinum and four others gold.
His side project, Chickenfoot, featuring former Van Halen front man Sammy Hagar, former bassist Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Chad Smith saw their debut album certified gold and their second studio album debuted at #9.
Since the 2017 release of his What Happens Next album Joe Satriani has toured his G3 Guitar Extravaganza worldwide to critical acclaim; he later embarked on the Experience Hendrix US tour.
Recent release Squares was a collection of previously unreleased material by his first, pre-fame band, Squares; another upcoming collectible is the re-release of his classic 1987 album Surfing With The Alien, which will include new artwork and a bonus disc, Stripped – the Backing Tracks (featuring the songs with all guitar solos removed).
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Beth Hart and her band will return to the UK in February 2020 to tour her latest album, War In My Mind, which was released in September via Mascot Records/Provogue.
It’s also great news to be able to report that Kris Barras, in acoustic duo format, will be special guest on her UK Tour.
Kris Barras has just completed a headline tour with his full band in support of his excellent new album Light It Up, an album that sees the signer-guitarist at his most expressive yet:
"I kinda forced myself to write songs a different way. The biggest difference for this album was that I didn’t pigeonhole myself in any way, I didn’t feel like I had to conform. I just sat down and wrote songs I wanted to write, with a sound I wanted to produce, not thinking about genre whatsoever."
The Beth Hart UK 2020 tour will start at the Brighton Dome on Wednesday 5th February 2020; the ten dates also include shows in London, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester.
It’s also great news to be able to report that Kris Barras, in acoustic duo format, will be special guest on her UK Tour.
Kris Barras has just completed a headline tour with his full band in support of his excellent new album Light It Up, an album that sees the signer-guitarist at his most expressive yet:
"I kinda forced myself to write songs a different way. The biggest difference for this album was that I didn’t pigeonhole myself in any way, I didn’t feel like I had to conform. I just sat down and wrote songs I wanted to write, with a sound I wanted to produce, not thinking about genre whatsoever."
The Beth Hart UK 2020 tour will start at the Brighton Dome on Wednesday 5th February 2020; the ten dates also include shows in London, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester.
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YES have released a promo video for 'To the Moment,' which is lifted from the recently released From a Page mini box set and vinyl, exclusively available through the band’s Burning Shed store page:
https://burningshed.com/store/yes
The song features the Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Alan White, Oliver Wakeman and Benoit David line-up of YES that toured extensively between 2008 and 2011.
https://burningshed.com/store/yes
The song features the Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Alan White, Oliver Wakeman and Benoit David line-up of YES that toured extensively between 2008 and 2011.
From a Page and the four previously unreleased 2010 recordings was personally overseen by ex-member Oliver Wakeman. The set also features two booklets and three discs containing the four studio tracks and Live From Lyon 2009, all of which were recorded by the Squire, Howe, White, David and Oliver Wakeman line-up.
The previously unreleased tracks, mixed by Karl Groom and mastered by Mike Pietrini, are:
To The Moment (6:09); Words on a Page (6:18); From the Turn of a Card (3:24); The Gift of Love (9:52)
The double CD album Live From Lyon was first released in 2010 and this edition restores 'Second Initial,' which was previously a Japanese only bonus track.
The booklet for Live From Lyon has been re-designed and expanded.
"Oliver's compositions, To the Moment, Words on a Page and From the Turn of a Card demonstrate his musicality and talents, while The Gift of Love explores the collaborative essence of YES, pooling ideas and then working together on its arrangement." – Steve Howe
"Following Chris Squire’s passing, I felt that the new music we'd created, but not released, should be heard and not sit unfinished on a shelf. I am proud to know that this music will get to see the light of day and, hopefully, be enjoyed by YES fans as a piece of previously hidden Yes history." – Oliver Wakeman
"I'm pleased to see a gem of YES history coming to fruition in the form of this mini box set; new songs from the past." – Alan White
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The previously unreleased tracks, mixed by Karl Groom and mastered by Mike Pietrini, are:
To The Moment (6:09); Words on a Page (6:18); From the Turn of a Card (3:24); The Gift of Love (9:52)
The double CD album Live From Lyon was first released in 2010 and this edition restores 'Second Initial,' which was previously a Japanese only bonus track.
The booklet for Live From Lyon has been re-designed and expanded.
"Oliver's compositions, To the Moment, Words on a Page and From the Turn of a Card demonstrate his musicality and talents, while The Gift of Love explores the collaborative essence of YES, pooling ideas and then working together on its arrangement." – Steve Howe
"Following Chris Squire’s passing, I felt that the new music we'd created, but not released, should be heard and not sit unfinished on a shelf. I am proud to know that this music will get to see the light of day and, hopefully, be enjoyed by YES fans as a piece of previously hidden Yes history." – Oliver Wakeman
"I'm pleased to see a gem of YES history coming to fruition in the form of this mini box set; new songs from the past." – Alan White
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Blue Öyster Cult, currently working on new material for a studio album to be released in 2020, will release Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014 on the 24th January.
The album is the first in a series of live releases planned for next year.
Of the brand new studio album, BÖC’s co-founder Eric Bloom confirmed that "the band is in the middle of creating new songs and recording them in between tour dates; we hope to drop a song or two into our live shows soon. Everyone is involved in the writing and arrangement of the new material and we’re all excited about the prospect of a new BÖC album."
Recorded at the Hard Rock Casino in Northfield, Ohio, Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014 offers a comprehensive, near two hour coverage of the Blue Öyster Cult repertoire.
The release will be available on 3xLP (180g gatefold), 2xCD+DVD, Blu-Ray and digital formats.
Album pre-order https://radi.al/BOCLive
The album is the first in a series of live releases planned for next year.
Of the brand new studio album, BÖC’s co-founder Eric Bloom confirmed that "the band is in the middle of creating new songs and recording them in between tour dates; we hope to drop a song or two into our live shows soon. Everyone is involved in the writing and arrangement of the new material and we’re all excited about the prospect of a new BÖC album."
Recorded at the Hard Rock Casino in Northfield, Ohio, Hard Rock Live Cleveland 2014 offers a comprehensive, near two hour coverage of the Blue Öyster Cult repertoire.
The release will be available on 3xLP (180g gatefold), 2xCD+DVD, Blu-Ray and digital formats.
Album pre-order https://radi.al/BOCLive
Also being (re)released on 24th January is Cult Classic, which has been unavailable for many years.
Originally released in 1994, Cult Classic contains updated recordings of Blue Öyster Cult's biggest numbers, including '(Don't Fear) The Reaper,' 'Burning for You,' 'Astronomy' and 'Godzilla.'
The reissue is remastered, comes with updated artwork and will be available on 2xLP (180g gatefold), CD and digital formats.
Album pre-order https://radi.al/CultClassic
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Originally released in 1994, Cult Classic contains updated recordings of Blue Öyster Cult's biggest numbers, including '(Don't Fear) The Reaper,' 'Burning for You,' 'Astronomy' and 'Godzilla.'
The reissue is remastered, comes with updated artwork and will be available on 2xLP (180g gatefold), CD and digital formats.
Album pre-order https://radi.al/CultClassic
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It’s funny how the most uncertain of gigs can bring out the little gems or finds for many a fan, music writer or reviewer, as highlighted recently by FabricationsHQ contributor and Glasgow based musician Nelson McFarlane…
So there I am, on the way, on a rainy Thursday school night in Glasgow, to the Classic Grand for a gig by a band I wasn’t overly familiar with… Pelican, a metal quartet from Chicago featuring Trevor Shelley de Brauw and Dallas Thomas (guitars), Bryan Herweg (bass) and Larry Herweg (drums).
Unusually for a metal based outfit, Pelican’s material is almost entirely instrumental.
Formed in 2001 they have released six albums and six EPs but, apart from a cult following, are virtually unknown in the UK.
There are elements of stoner-rock and doom-metal, but it is difficult to escape the Black Sabbath comparisons at times during the set (no bad thing).
So there I am, on the way, on a rainy Thursday school night in Glasgow, to the Classic Grand for a gig by a band I wasn’t overly familiar with… Pelican, a metal quartet from Chicago featuring Trevor Shelley de Brauw and Dallas Thomas (guitars), Bryan Herweg (bass) and Larry Herweg (drums).
Unusually for a metal based outfit, Pelican’s material is almost entirely instrumental.
Formed in 2001 they have released six albums and six EPs but, apart from a cult following, are virtually unknown in the UK.
There are elements of stoner-rock and doom-metal, but it is difficult to escape the Black Sabbath comparisons at times during the set (no bad thing).
The gig started with an intro recording of drones and white noise, which set the scene for what was to come.
From the first number in, 'Midnight and Mescaline' (the set largely comprised of numbers from most recent album Nighttime Stories), it was clear this would be intense and dense.
The twin guitar assault is brutal but when they settle on a riff it becomes hypnotic and almost trance-like, but this is no 'jam band,' Pelican are well rehearsed and the riffs keep coming with military precision.
This isn’t Math Rock either but it veers around the edges.
The band barely says anything to the audience between numbers however the set maintains a level of intensity which doesn’t require introductions; the sympathetic and understated light-show matched the mood perfectly.
Stand out songs were the titular 'Nightime Stories,' 'Arteries of Blacktop' and set closer 'Full Moon, Black Water.'
I don’t expect this band to be headlining Download anytime soon, but if you like your metal loud, brutal and riffy without the fripperies (and egos of lead singers), this might be right up your metal sheathed alley.
From the first number in, 'Midnight and Mescaline' (the set largely comprised of numbers from most recent album Nighttime Stories), it was clear this would be intense and dense.
The twin guitar assault is brutal but when they settle on a riff it becomes hypnotic and almost trance-like, but this is no 'jam band,' Pelican are well rehearsed and the riffs keep coming with military precision.
This isn’t Math Rock either but it veers around the edges.
The band barely says anything to the audience between numbers however the set maintains a level of intensity which doesn’t require introductions; the sympathetic and understated light-show matched the mood perfectly.
Stand out songs were the titular 'Nightime Stories,' 'Arteries of Blacktop' and set closer 'Full Moon, Black Water.'
I don’t expect this band to be headlining Download anytime soon, but if you like your metal loud, brutal and riffy without the fripperies (and egos of lead singers), this might be right up your metal sheathed alley.
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Mike Zito & Friends have just released the album Rock 'N' Roll: A Tribute To Chuck Berry; you can read FabricationsHQ’s review of the album by clicking here.
The album features twenty-one guest guitarists, including Joe Bonamassa, Walter Trout, Eric Gales, Robben Ford, Sonny Landreth, Luther Dickinson and, fittingly and significantly, Chuck’s grandson, Charles Berry III.
The music video for the first single 'Johnny B Goode,' featuring Walter Trout, has just been released, of which Mike Zito says: "The video's a throwback to early MTV kind of vibe. Getting to make this video with my hero, Walter Trout, is pretty much the coolest thing ever!"
The album features twenty-one guest guitarists, including Joe Bonamassa, Walter Trout, Eric Gales, Robben Ford, Sonny Landreth, Luther Dickinson and, fittingly and significantly, Chuck’s grandson, Charles Berry III.
The music video for the first single 'Johnny B Goode,' featuring Walter Trout, has just been released, of which Mike Zito says: "The video's a throwback to early MTV kind of vibe. Getting to make this video with my hero, Walter Trout, is pretty much the coolest thing ever!"
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Wisconsin-bred and L.A. based blues rawk and roller Jared James Nichols will embark on his first major headline UK tour in February 2020.
The eight date tour starts on February 25th at the Robin 2 in Bilston and ends at the Exchange in Bristol on March 29th. Tickets are available from https://www.seetickets.com/tour/jared-james-nichols
"I’m looking forward to playing the UK again; the last time we toured the UK, we supported Living Colour and Wayward Sons. This time we will be headlining our own shows so it’s going to be a special tour for us. We’ve been gradually building up a lot of momentum over the years, so the time feels right for a headline tour now."
The tour follows Jared’s recent single 'Nails in the Coffin,' a popular A-listed radio hit on Planet Rock Radio.
"Nails in the Coffin has many different meanings," says the guitarist. "It’s about overcoming the odds, always pushing forward. Never backing down or giving up to anything or anyone."
The eight date tour starts on February 25th at the Robin 2 in Bilston and ends at the Exchange in Bristol on March 29th. Tickets are available from https://www.seetickets.com/tour/jared-james-nichols
"I’m looking forward to playing the UK again; the last time we toured the UK, we supported Living Colour and Wayward Sons. This time we will be headlining our own shows so it’s going to be a special tour for us. We’ve been gradually building up a lot of momentum over the years, so the time feels right for a headline tour now."
The tour follows Jared’s recent single 'Nails in the Coffin,' a popular A-listed radio hit on Planet Rock Radio.
"Nails in the Coffin has many different meanings," says the guitarist. "It’s about overcoming the odds, always pushing forward. Never backing down or giving up to anything or anyone."
2019 was a ground-breaking year for Jared James Nichols with Gibson/Epiphone releasing his Signature Model Les Paul Custom Guitar, along with the release of the Blackstar Amps JJN-20R MKII. Both models received rave reviews.
Hailed as one of the most exciting new blues rock singer-guitarists around, Jared James Nichols is no stranger to UK and European audiences.
In 2015 he embarked on a European tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd followed by an extensive UK tour supporting Glenn Hughes; he also toured with Stone Broken and opened the Planet Rock Main Stage at Ramblin’ Man Fair 2017.
Hailed as one of the most exciting new blues rock singer-guitarists around, Jared James Nichols is no stranger to UK and European audiences.
In 2015 he embarked on a European tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd followed by an extensive UK tour supporting Glenn Hughes; he also toured with Stone Broken and opened the Planet Rock Main Stage at Ramblin’ Man Fair 2017.
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Acclaimed UK roots-blues artist Martin Harley, who is just completing an October run of UK dates before heading back to Europe for headline shows in Portugal, Switzerland, Germany and Austria, recently released his second single, 'Brother,' ahead of forthcoming new album Roll With the Punches.
You can pre-order the album here: https://www.martinharley.com/products/roll-with-the-punches-cd
Having made quite the impression on the acoustic blues/ roots and Americana scenes with his last two Nashville recorded albums, Martin Harley’s highly anticipated new album finds the musician in a more electric, band driven direction.
Recorded in a remote chapel deep in the wilds of Pembrokeshire, Roll With the Punches is an intimate, and gritty, analogue recorded album that features Harley's trademark road-worn songwriting style, country blues riffs and electric bottleneck slide guitar work, all set over the rhythms of co-producer and drummer Harry Harding (Yola Carter/William the Conquerer) and award-winning Australian bassist Rex Horan (Eric Clapton, Van Morrison & Laura Marling).
Hammond maestro Jonny Henderson (Robyn Ford/Matt Schofield) adds extra sparkle on six of the ten tracks, including the gospel tinged 'Brother.'
You can pre-order the album here: https://www.martinharley.com/products/roll-with-the-punches-cd
Having made quite the impression on the acoustic blues/ roots and Americana scenes with his last two Nashville recorded albums, Martin Harley’s highly anticipated new album finds the musician in a more electric, band driven direction.
Recorded in a remote chapel deep in the wilds of Pembrokeshire, Roll With the Punches is an intimate, and gritty, analogue recorded album that features Harley's trademark road-worn songwriting style, country blues riffs and electric bottleneck slide guitar work, all set over the rhythms of co-producer and drummer Harry Harding (Yola Carter/William the Conquerer) and award-winning Australian bassist Rex Horan (Eric Clapton, Van Morrison & Laura Marling).
Hammond maestro Jonny Henderson (Robyn Ford/Matt Schofield) adds extra sparkle on six of the ten tracks, including the gospel tinged 'Brother.'
Martin Harley recently played to a full house at the Union Chapel in Islington and has appeared at Edmonton, Vancouver, Canmore and Calgary folk festivals in Canada; UK festivals include Glastonbury, Bestival and Beautiful days.
Beyond his numerous European and US tours (and events such as the AMAs, The Bluebird in Nashville and Tønder in Denmark) Total Guitar Magazine ranked him #16 in the World's Greatest Acoustic Guitarist poll of 2018; he was nominated as Instrumentalist of the Year at the Americana music awards 2019.
European tour dates, November-December
Nov 15th - Porto (Venue TBC), Portugal (solo)
Nov16th - Coimbra em Blues Festival, Portugal (solo)
Nov 19th – Wachenburg, Weinheim, Germany (duo)
Nov 20th - Bleu Lezard, Lausanne, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 21st - Vario Bar, Olten, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 22nd – ZAK, Jona, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 23rd - Lichtspielhaus Gloria, Immendingen, Germany (duo)
Nov 24th – Ellis, Hanau, Germany (duo)
Nov 26th – Kleefeld, Hannover, Germany (duo)
Nov 27th - Alte Molkerei, Bocholt, Germany (duo)
Nov 29th – Marenzihaus, Leibnitz, Austria (solo)
Nov 30th – Wohnzimmer, Klagenfurt, Austria (solo)
Dec 2nd – Academy, Salzburg, Austria (solo)
Dec 3rd - Haus Der Musik, Wien, Austria (solo)
Dec 4th - Die Bäckerei, Innsbruck, Germany (duo)
Dec 5th - Das Cann, Stuttgart, Germany (duo)
Dec 6th – Putzstein, Thurnau, Germany (duo)
Dec 7th – Gewölbe, Göttingen, Germany (duo)
Dec 8th - Altes Spital, Viechtach, Germany (solo)
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Beyond his numerous European and US tours (and events such as the AMAs, The Bluebird in Nashville and Tønder in Denmark) Total Guitar Magazine ranked him #16 in the World's Greatest Acoustic Guitarist poll of 2018; he was nominated as Instrumentalist of the Year at the Americana music awards 2019.
European tour dates, November-December
Nov 15th - Porto (Venue TBC), Portugal (solo)
Nov16th - Coimbra em Blues Festival, Portugal (solo)
Nov 19th – Wachenburg, Weinheim, Germany (duo)
Nov 20th - Bleu Lezard, Lausanne, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 21st - Vario Bar, Olten, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 22nd – ZAK, Jona, Switzerland (duo)
Nov 23rd - Lichtspielhaus Gloria, Immendingen, Germany (duo)
Nov 24th – Ellis, Hanau, Germany (duo)
Nov 26th – Kleefeld, Hannover, Germany (duo)
Nov 27th - Alte Molkerei, Bocholt, Germany (duo)
Nov 29th – Marenzihaus, Leibnitz, Austria (solo)
Nov 30th – Wohnzimmer, Klagenfurt, Austria (solo)
Dec 2nd – Academy, Salzburg, Austria (solo)
Dec 3rd - Haus Der Musik, Wien, Austria (solo)
Dec 4th - Die Bäckerei, Innsbruck, Germany (duo)
Dec 5th - Das Cann, Stuttgart, Germany (duo)
Dec 6th – Putzstein, Thurnau, Germany (duo)
Dec 7th – Gewölbe, Göttingen, Germany (duo)
Dec 8th - Altes Spital, Viechtach, Germany (solo)
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Geoff Carne and the Hatz, who delivered the blues rock styled 4 Play EP last year, have recently released a new 4 track EP.
This time however it’s four versions of the same song – and a very familiar/ successful one…
'Kids,' the Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue classic, was chosen because it has recently been introduced into the band’s live sets; it was also recorded to test some new recording software prior to laying down new material that will form the album Big Town, to be released next year.
The results are a rockingly fuzzed fun version of the song, as recorded by Geoff Carne (vocals, guitars) and Mick Hatz (drums, percussion) and produced by Paul Mex, who has included two further versions for the EP,
a ‘Natural’ mix and ‘Turn it Up to 11’ mix. A solo vocal/ piano take is also included.
As regards the forthcoming album, a new single 'Caught on the Outside' is to be released in late October as a sampler for Big Town.
www.geoffcarne.com
This time however it’s four versions of the same song – and a very familiar/ successful one…
'Kids,' the Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue classic, was chosen because it has recently been introduced into the band’s live sets; it was also recorded to test some new recording software prior to laying down new material that will form the album Big Town, to be released next year.
The results are a rockingly fuzzed fun version of the song, as recorded by Geoff Carne (vocals, guitars) and Mick Hatz (drums, percussion) and produced by Paul Mex, who has included two further versions for the EP,
a ‘Natural’ mix and ‘Turn it Up to 11’ mix. A solo vocal/ piano take is also included.
As regards the forthcoming album, a new single 'Caught on the Outside' is to be released in late October as a sampler for Big Town.
www.geoffcarne.com
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Mason Hill, Glasgow’s contemporary rock-metal quintet, have announced details of their forthcoming debut album, Against the Wall.
The album, which will be self-released, is being fan funded through a Kickstarter campaign; the campaign has already reached its goal but fans can still pledge to supplement existing funds and guarantee more pre-release promotion, including the possibility of official video releases.
The Mason Hill Kickstarter campaign will run until the 10th of November: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/masonhill/against-the-wall-mason-hill-debut-album
Mason Hill’s front man Scott Taylor commented that "we constantly have fans asking us when the album is coming. We thank them for their patience and are so pleased to be able to say that it is now on the way! We are putting everything into this and we hope the fans will support the band. We have a series of rewards that offer great value for money and everyone who backs the campaign will receive an instant free download of an early recording of the title track, Against The Wall."
Against the Wall will be recorded in November (much of 2019 has been spent writing, rehearsing and refining material for the album) at Riverside Studios near Glasgow; its release is scheduled for 2020.
The band have four gigs in October/ November where they will showcase new material alongside some old favourites.
The shows include the band’s recent sell out at King Tuts in Glasgow, Dragonffli in Pontypool in Wales (October 18th), a headline show at Gravity Festival in Cannock (October 19th) and Black Heart in Camden, London (November 5th).
2020 already has a number Mason Hill shows confirmed including a headliner at Rockmantic Festival, an appearance at Planet Rock’s Winters End Festival (on the main stage in February); other gigs will be confirmed and announced soon.
Mason Hill: Marc Montgomery (guitars), James Bird (guitars), Scott Taylor (lead vocals), Matthew Ward (bass), Craig McFetridge (drums).
With an average age of 26, Mason Hill are a young band on an upward progression with forthcoming debut album Against the Wall.
The band have sold out headline shows all over the UK in iconic venues such as Glasgow’s King Tuts and The Garage as well as festival appearances at WinterStorm, Download, TRNSMT, Planet Rockstock and Steelhouse. They also recently played a UK tour as support to The Dan Reed Network.
Website: www.masonhillofficial.com
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With an average age of 26, Mason Hill are a young band on an upward progression with forthcoming debut album Against the Wall.
The band have sold out headline shows all over the UK in iconic venues such as Glasgow’s King Tuts and The Garage as well as festival appearances at WinterStorm, Download, TRNSMT, Planet Rockstock and Steelhouse. They also recently played a UK tour as support to The Dan Reed Network.
Website: www.masonhillofficial.com
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Glasgow’s Anchor Lane are one of many up and coming rock outfits on the rock scene but what sets them apart from a number of the new bands with potential is you can’t just add them to the ever expanding 'New Wave of British Classic Rock' list.
And that’s because while Anchor Lane certainly carry influences from some of the weightier greats of back in the day, the band (Conor Gaffney - lead vocals, guitars; Lawrence O’Brien - guitars; Matthew Quigley - bass; Scott Hanlon - drums) are a vibrant and highly contemporary four piece who also incorporate anthemic rock, metal and a little alt-rockin' punk.
Proving that point is fast and feisty new single 'Fame Shame'
Produced by Toby Jepson (Wayward Sons, GUN, Little Angels) it’s an attention grabber from the first few seconds of its musically short and lyrically sharp two minutes and forty five seconds, snapping at a society all too easily led by social media and/ or living their lives through Reality TV and its celebrity stars.
The single was formally launched at a headline hometown show at the Glasgow G2 on October 11th.
You can read FabricationsQ's reviww of the gig here:
http://www.fabricationshq.com/anchor-lane---g2-glasgow.html
On the back of the single and forthcoming show, Conor Gaffney spoke to FabricationsHQ about the band’s recent activities, the single, working with Toby Jepson and that long awaited, and now highly anticipated, debut album Casino, which will be relaed on January 31st 2020…
This is a great time for Anchor Lane; a new single in anticipation of the debut album, headline Single Launch show at the G2 and significant festival and support gigs including a recent Special Guest slot to Cheap Trick at the O2 Academy Glasgow…
"It’s been a crazy year! We’ve been given so many incredible opportunities and we are so grateful.
Supporting Cheap Trick was amazing, to support a band of their legendary status is a true honour.
I was actually out for lunch with my brother when I found out we’d be supporting them. I received a phone call from our drummer Scott who was practically hyperventilating and frantically gasping out the words, "we’re supporting Cheap Trick!"
It was hysterical but I shared his enthusiasm. The guys in Cheap Trick were absolutely brand new as well. Really nice, grounded musicians who decided to invite us on stage to sing 'Surrender' with them!
Absolutely mind boggling! What a buzz!
The single, Fame Shame, is a seriously punchy offering which also benefits from being short and sharp – it’s a band composition but how much of an influence was working with, and being produced by, someone with the reputation and ‘previous’ of Toby Jepson…
"Toby is very much responsible for us coming up with Fame Shame.
It’s funny how a simple suggestion can spark a song like that! We were in the deepest depths of our
pre-production sessions with Toby and our list of songs to record for the album was looking strong.
We had worked very hard and we’re reaping the benefits of it. Toby had a look at the board and said to us 'You need a fast number. A more upbeat, hard hitting track.'
We brainstormed for a few minutes and either Lawrence or Scott came up with the opening riff for Fame Shame. Side note - neither of them know, nor claims to be the one, who wrote the riff!
After the opening riff was written the rest of the song came together very smoothly. We treated it like an old school, two-minute punk song. Full of angst and raw emotion and I think that comes across.
Toby really encouraged us to let the alternative and punk rock influence out...
And that’s because while Anchor Lane certainly carry influences from some of the weightier greats of back in the day, the band (Conor Gaffney - lead vocals, guitars; Lawrence O’Brien - guitars; Matthew Quigley - bass; Scott Hanlon - drums) are a vibrant and highly contemporary four piece who also incorporate anthemic rock, metal and a little alt-rockin' punk.
Proving that point is fast and feisty new single 'Fame Shame'
Produced by Toby Jepson (Wayward Sons, GUN, Little Angels) it’s an attention grabber from the first few seconds of its musically short and lyrically sharp two minutes and forty five seconds, snapping at a society all too easily led by social media and/ or living their lives through Reality TV and its celebrity stars.
The single was formally launched at a headline hometown show at the Glasgow G2 on October 11th.
You can read FabricationsQ's reviww of the gig here:
http://www.fabricationshq.com/anchor-lane---g2-glasgow.html
On the back of the single and forthcoming show, Conor Gaffney spoke to FabricationsHQ about the band’s recent activities, the single, working with Toby Jepson and that long awaited, and now highly anticipated, debut album Casino, which will be relaed on January 31st 2020…
This is a great time for Anchor Lane; a new single in anticipation of the debut album, headline Single Launch show at the G2 and significant festival and support gigs including a recent Special Guest slot to Cheap Trick at the O2 Academy Glasgow…
"It’s been a crazy year! We’ve been given so many incredible opportunities and we are so grateful.
Supporting Cheap Trick was amazing, to support a band of their legendary status is a true honour.
I was actually out for lunch with my brother when I found out we’d be supporting them. I received a phone call from our drummer Scott who was practically hyperventilating and frantically gasping out the words, "we’re supporting Cheap Trick!"
It was hysterical but I shared his enthusiasm. The guys in Cheap Trick were absolutely brand new as well. Really nice, grounded musicians who decided to invite us on stage to sing 'Surrender' with them!
Absolutely mind boggling! What a buzz!
The single, Fame Shame, is a seriously punchy offering which also benefits from being short and sharp – it’s a band composition but how much of an influence was working with, and being produced by, someone with the reputation and ‘previous’ of Toby Jepson…
"Toby is very much responsible for us coming up with Fame Shame.
It’s funny how a simple suggestion can spark a song like that! We were in the deepest depths of our
pre-production sessions with Toby and our list of songs to record for the album was looking strong.
We had worked very hard and we’re reaping the benefits of it. Toby had a look at the board and said to us 'You need a fast number. A more upbeat, hard hitting track.'
We brainstormed for a few minutes and either Lawrence or Scott came up with the opening riff for Fame Shame. Side note - neither of them know, nor claims to be the one, who wrote the riff!
After the opening riff was written the rest of the song came together very smoothly. We treated it like an old school, two-minute punk song. Full of angst and raw emotion and I think that comes across.
Toby really encouraged us to let the alternative and punk rock influence out...
It also has to be great for a band such as Anchor Lane to have someone on board like Toby; that has to be a great sounding board, as regards his experience and advisories…
"Absolutely, we met with Toby in January to discuss him producing our album; we invited him to our rehearsal studio in Glasgow and kind of introductory pre-production session.
We just showed him the songs we were working on and he gave us feedback. He came into the studio and totally fit in with the chemistry.
He challenged us and helped us mould and define our identity as a band and as songwriters. Speaking personally here, he really challenged me to be honest and open with my lyrics and to expose myself more.
In summation, we learned more than I think we’ll ever truly know from working with Toby."
That lyrical honesty and your vocal expressiveness come across loudly and clearly on Fame Shame.
Given the intensity with which you deliver the lyric, and the song’s hard-hitting style, it’s clear you feel very strongly about the issues of social media and Reality TV…
"Don’t get me wrong social media can be a wonderful tool to keep in touch with friends and family and find like-minded individuals and I do have it myself.
That being said, I feel we are in a world now where the social media pendulum has swung so far away from normality. There are too many people who compare themselves to lavish and extravagant lifestyles of celebrities and social media influencers that even they don’t really live. They’re not sharing pictures from the day they had the flu and their hair was a riot and their beard wasn’t groomed or their makeup wasn’t done. Social media is a highlight reel not reality.
We also feel that some celebrities and influencers are encouraging very shallow, self-centred and sometimes self-destructive behaviours that do not contribute positively to their followers’ well-being."
Perversely of course, in this digital day and instant connection age, bands like Anchor Lane need social media to help spread the word and keep connected to the fan base and the growth of that fan base.
It’s about striking that balance – using it, but not letting it, consume you…
"Totally! As I mentioned, I am on social media sites as are the rest of the lads in Anchor Lane and sometimes I catch myself sitting on it too long. I actually started utilising the screen time tool on my phone; it allows me limit how much time I spend on social media and my phone in general.
It is funny that we are discouraging people from being on their phones all the time while also encouraging them to follow us our social media’s and download our Anchor Lane app!
Don’t worry, we understand the irony! However, social media and phones when used in moderation are amazing tools!"
The much anticipated debut album Casino will see the light of day in January of next year – while many fans may have expected a full album sooner do you think waiting has benefited you as a band, as songwriters and as a unit?
"The thing for us has always been you only get one shot at a debut album. We could have released an album last year with the material we had but it would not have been to the quality of what we have now.
It was very important for us to get our first album right and the reason it’s coming out early next year is because we achieved that goal."
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"Absolutely, we met with Toby in January to discuss him producing our album; we invited him to our rehearsal studio in Glasgow and kind of introductory pre-production session.
We just showed him the songs we were working on and he gave us feedback. He came into the studio and totally fit in with the chemistry.
He challenged us and helped us mould and define our identity as a band and as songwriters. Speaking personally here, he really challenged me to be honest and open with my lyrics and to expose myself more.
In summation, we learned more than I think we’ll ever truly know from working with Toby."
That lyrical honesty and your vocal expressiveness come across loudly and clearly on Fame Shame.
Given the intensity with which you deliver the lyric, and the song’s hard-hitting style, it’s clear you feel very strongly about the issues of social media and Reality TV…
"Don’t get me wrong social media can be a wonderful tool to keep in touch with friends and family and find like-minded individuals and I do have it myself.
That being said, I feel we are in a world now where the social media pendulum has swung so far away from normality. There are too many people who compare themselves to lavish and extravagant lifestyles of celebrities and social media influencers that even they don’t really live. They’re not sharing pictures from the day they had the flu and their hair was a riot and their beard wasn’t groomed or their makeup wasn’t done. Social media is a highlight reel not reality.
We also feel that some celebrities and influencers are encouraging very shallow, self-centred and sometimes self-destructive behaviours that do not contribute positively to their followers’ well-being."
Perversely of course, in this digital day and instant connection age, bands like Anchor Lane need social media to help spread the word and keep connected to the fan base and the growth of that fan base.
It’s about striking that balance – using it, but not letting it, consume you…
"Totally! As I mentioned, I am on social media sites as are the rest of the lads in Anchor Lane and sometimes I catch myself sitting on it too long. I actually started utilising the screen time tool on my phone; it allows me limit how much time I spend on social media and my phone in general.
It is funny that we are discouraging people from being on their phones all the time while also encouraging them to follow us our social media’s and download our Anchor Lane app!
Don’t worry, we understand the irony! However, social media and phones when used in moderation are amazing tools!"
The much anticipated debut album Casino will see the light of day in January of next year – while many fans may have expected a full album sooner do you think waiting has benefited you as a band, as songwriters and as a unit?
"The thing for us has always been you only get one shot at a debut album. We could have released an album last year with the material we had but it would not have been to the quality of what we have now.
It was very important for us to get our first album right and the reason it’s coming out early next year is because we achieved that goal."
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Photo by Colin Hyslop
Scott Nicol, a South Ayrshire based singer and prolific pop/ rock/ Americana styled songwriter, has musical tendrils that stretch far and wide, from gigging performances across Europe and the US to his much applauded role as a teacher and musical mentor to youngsters and music students through his excellent Possibility Screams project (encompassing guitar tuition, song writing classes, open mic events and a host of other musical platforms that helps nurture young, musical talent).
One of Scott Nicol’s most recent and life affirming musical assistances came in March when he met Eileen Dong in Houston, Texas.
Her story of, and compassion for, victims of abuse and trafficking made a not insignificant mark on Scott, who was also impressed by her non-profit organisation Hope PYX Global.
When Scott returned home to Scotland he decided to write a song based on Eileen’s story (Eileen sent Scott her testimony about being a survivor of domestic abuse). Scott edited her words into the song 'Butterfly,' which was subsequently recorded with lead vocals from young singer Charlotte Rutter and backing vocals by Unoma Okudo.
The song, which you can stream below, courtesy of permission from Scott Nicol, has just been made available as a download to help raise funds for Hope PYX Global.
You can purchase from Amazon UK by clicking here
Spotify and iTunes versions link: https://www.scottnicol.us/butterfly
While the lyric is the poignant heart of the song 'Butterfly' is also a lovely little Americana tinged pop number that, given the right exposure and promotion, would be heard on mainstream radio and contending for airplay as a BBC Radio 2 song of the week.
One of Scott Nicol’s most recent and life affirming musical assistances came in March when he met Eileen Dong in Houston, Texas.
Her story of, and compassion for, victims of abuse and trafficking made a not insignificant mark on Scott, who was also impressed by her non-profit organisation Hope PYX Global.
When Scott returned home to Scotland he decided to write a song based on Eileen’s story (Eileen sent Scott her testimony about being a survivor of domestic abuse). Scott edited her words into the song 'Butterfly,' which was subsequently recorded with lead vocals from young singer Charlotte Rutter and backing vocals by Unoma Okudo.
The song, which you can stream below, courtesy of permission from Scott Nicol, has just been made available as a download to help raise funds for Hope PYX Global.
You can purchase from Amazon UK by clicking here
Spotify and iTunes versions link: https://www.scottnicol.us/butterfly
While the lyric is the poignant heart of the song 'Butterfly' is also a lovely little Americana tinged pop number that, given the right exposure and promotion, would be heard on mainstream radio and contending for airplay as a BBC Radio 2 song of the week.
http://www.hopepyxglobal.org/ www.scottnicol.us
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Britain’s smoky-voiced roots-blues songstress Elles Bailey has just released a new single, 'Going Deeper.'
The song is lifted from the Bristol based singer’s second album Road I Call Home, which was released in March of this year to rave reviews; it charted in the UK Country and UK Americana charts and reached #1 on the Amazon Blues Bestseller chart.
"I think 'Deeper' is my favourite track on Road I Call Home. It was written with the superstar duo Dan Demay and Daryl Burgess. I’ve written a lot with Dan and Daryl and I love that we write something completely different every time we get together. ‘Deeper’ was always a favourite of mine right from the beginning; I knew it was gonna go on the record. I'm so happy we decided to put horns on it too… it just oozes with soul!"
- Elles Bailey
The song is lifted from the Bristol based singer’s second album Road I Call Home, which was released in March of this year to rave reviews; it charted in the UK Country and UK Americana charts and reached #1 on the Amazon Blues Bestseller chart.
"I think 'Deeper' is my favourite track on Road I Call Home. It was written with the superstar duo Dan Demay and Daryl Burgess. I’ve written a lot with Dan and Daryl and I love that we write something completely different every time we get together. ‘Deeper’ was always a favourite of mine right from the beginning; I knew it was gonna go on the record. I'm so happy we decided to put horns on it too… it just oozes with soul!"
- Elles Bailey
In what has been an incredibly busy two years for Elles Bailey the singer has been touring far and wide and a feature of a number of UK and European festivals including Black Deer, Swing Wesplaar, Ramblin’ Man Fair and The Great British R&B Festival.
In an impressive Americana one-two Elles Bailey has been invited to the House Of Songs songwriting summit in Arkansas and will also be showcasing at the Americana Fest in Nashville, in September.
"There’s nothing I can say about this album other than it's wonderful, perfect and you should listen to it right now!" - 3 Songs & out
" 'Road I Call Home' is a lifestyle statement from Elles Bailey as much as it is an album title. It’s also an exceptional roots-based release from one of the up and coming talents in British blues."
- FabricationsHQ
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In an impressive Americana one-two Elles Bailey has been invited to the House Of Songs songwriting summit in Arkansas and will also be showcasing at the Americana Fest in Nashville, in September.
"There’s nothing I can say about this album other than it's wonderful, perfect and you should listen to it right now!" - 3 Songs & out
" 'Road I Call Home' is a lifestyle statement from Elles Bailey as much as it is an album title. It’s also an exceptional roots-based release from one of the up and coming talents in British blues."
- FabricationsHQ
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Silverthorne, who deliver not so much weighty, earthy rock as expansive canyon rock (much like the Southern California landscape that shaped both the band and the video for debut single, 'Tear the Sky Wide Open,' came together when singer-guitarist Pete Shoulder (Winterville / The Union) and drummer Brian Tichy (Foreigner/ Whitesnake / Billy Idol) decided to collaborate on some songs together.
After drafting in Tichy’s Los Angeles based, bass playing buddy Daniel Spree, the trio was complete.
Signed to Golden Robot Records, the band are working on their forthcoming EP.
After drafting in Tichy’s Los Angeles based, bass playing buddy Daniel Spree, the trio was complete.
Signed to Golden Robot Records, the band are working on their forthcoming EP.
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Raintown, the Glasgow based crossover country-pop-rock outfit featuring the talents of husband and wife singer-songwriter team Paul Bain and Claire McArthur Bain, have released a new single, 'Play it Loud.'
Produced in Nashville with Austin Moorhead at Wayland Productions 'Play it Loud' captures the band’s Nashville country-pop leanings.
It also, along with previous single, 2018’s melodic country pop rocker 'Run With the Night,' points toward any future third album from the multi-award winning band being as critically acclaimed in modern country circles as Writing On the Wall (the band’s second album caught the attention and ear of BBC Radio 2 presenter Bob Harris, among others).
Produced in Nashville with Austin Moorhead at Wayland Productions 'Play it Loud' captures the band’s Nashville country-pop leanings.
It also, along with previous single, 2018’s melodic country pop rocker 'Run With the Night,' points toward any future third album from the multi-award winning band being as critically acclaimed in modern country circles as Writing On the Wall (the band’s second album caught the attention and ear of BBC Radio 2 presenter Bob Harris, among others).
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Electro-rock quintet IAMWARFACE recently released the Official Music Video for new single, 'Say My Name.'
The song features on forthcoming debut album Year of the Dragon, which was released on Friday 6th September on Warfacesounds Records.
The song features on forthcoming debut album Year of the Dragon, which was released on Friday 6th September on Warfacesounds Records.
Formed in London in 2016 by singer-songwriter-producer Matt Warneford, the sound of IAMWARFACE is a mix of electro-synth (Gary Numan, Depeche Mode) and big-sound (Tears For Fears) 80s influences and the more contemporary (Muse, Kasabian), delivered over huge electro-rock grooves.
The band have released four singles to date including the darker 'Fear the Future,' released earlier this year, and the atmospheric 'Closer,' issued in 2018.
IAMWARFACE have been touring regularly in support of their single releases, including recent support slots with Gary Numan; they have also performed a live session for BBC Introducing.
IAMWARFACE
Matt Warneford – vocals; Lou Matthews – guitars; Tom Howe – synthesizer
Mike Smith – bass; Adam Stanley – drums
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The band have released four singles to date including the darker 'Fear the Future,' released earlier this year, and the atmospheric 'Closer,' issued in 2018.
IAMWARFACE have been touring regularly in support of their single releases, including recent support slots with Gary Numan; they have also performed a live session for BBC Introducing.
IAMWARFACE
Matt Warneford – vocals; Lou Matthews – guitars; Tom Howe – synthesizer
Mike Smith – bass; Adam Stanley – drums
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Following their highly successful "Still Got the Rock" European tour legendary 70’s glam and hard rockers Sweet will embark on a 16-date nationwide UK Xmas tour through late November to late December.
Special Guests on the tour will be alternate-rock quartet Novatines, who recorded their debut album with Sweet’s Andy Scott as producer in 2018.
In the early 70’s The Sweet were one of the hottest tickets in town with a string of Top Ten singles in the UK and Europe including 'Blockbuster,' 'Hellraiser,' 'Ballroom Blitz,' 'Teenage Rampage' and 'The Sixteens.'
By 1975 the USA had discovered the band via 'Fox on the Run,' which made #3 in the Billboard 100.
Another self-penned hit, 'Action,' followed in 1976, firmly establishing Sweet in the US charts.
Known primarily as a glam rock singles band the truth of the matter was they were a hard rocking and equally hard working outfit; albums such as Desolation Boulevard (1975) and Give Us a Wink (1976) helped establish that harder edge while Level Headed, released in 1978, brought with it a more AOR orientated sound and another worldwide hit in the shape of 'Love is Like Oxygen,' written by guitarist/ vocalist Andy Scott.
In 1979 original lead singer Brian Connolly left the original line-up leaving Andy Scott, bassist/ vocalist Steve Priest and drummer/ vocalist Mick Tucker to continue as a three piece.
Sadly both Brian Connolly and Mick Tucker passed away, in 1997 and 2002 respectively; with Steve Priest relocating to the USA, Andy Scott was left to fly the Sweet flag.
The current and long established core line-up of Andy Scott, Bruce Bisland (drums, vocals) and Tony O’Hora (lead vocals, bass) have been joined by Paul Manzi (guitars, keys, vocals), who has performed with the band at various times over the last five years.
With over 55 million records sold worldwide and 34 #1 hits worldwide, Sweet continue to tour and perform to sell-out audiences around the globe.
Sweet – November/ December 2019 UK Dates with Special Guests the Novatines
(tickets www.thegigcartel.com 24-Hour Box Office: 0844 478 0898)
Frome Cheese & Grain - Thursday 28th November
Holmfirth Picturedrome - Friday 29th November
Stockton Arc - Saturday 30th November
Nottingham Rescue Rooms - Sunday 1st December
Bury St Edmunds Apex - Thursday 5th December
Warrington Parr Hall - Friday 6th December
Barrow in Furness Forum - Saturday 7th December
Glasgow Oran Mor - Sunday 8th December
Sage Gateshead - Thursday 12th December
Aberdeen Lemon Tree - Friday 13th December
Edinburgh Queens Hall - Saturday 14th December
Clitheroe Grand - Sunday 15th December
Islington Assembly - Wednesday 18th December
Exeter Phoenix - Thursday 19th December
Southampton 1865 - Friday 20th December
Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion - Saturday 21st December
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Special Guests on the tour will be alternate-rock quartet Novatines, who recorded their debut album with Sweet’s Andy Scott as producer in 2018.
In the early 70’s The Sweet were one of the hottest tickets in town with a string of Top Ten singles in the UK and Europe including 'Blockbuster,' 'Hellraiser,' 'Ballroom Blitz,' 'Teenage Rampage' and 'The Sixteens.'
By 1975 the USA had discovered the band via 'Fox on the Run,' which made #3 in the Billboard 100.
Another self-penned hit, 'Action,' followed in 1976, firmly establishing Sweet in the US charts.
Known primarily as a glam rock singles band the truth of the matter was they were a hard rocking and equally hard working outfit; albums such as Desolation Boulevard (1975) and Give Us a Wink (1976) helped establish that harder edge while Level Headed, released in 1978, brought with it a more AOR orientated sound and another worldwide hit in the shape of 'Love is Like Oxygen,' written by guitarist/ vocalist Andy Scott.
In 1979 original lead singer Brian Connolly left the original line-up leaving Andy Scott, bassist/ vocalist Steve Priest and drummer/ vocalist Mick Tucker to continue as a three piece.
Sadly both Brian Connolly and Mick Tucker passed away, in 1997 and 2002 respectively; with Steve Priest relocating to the USA, Andy Scott was left to fly the Sweet flag.
The current and long established core line-up of Andy Scott, Bruce Bisland (drums, vocals) and Tony O’Hora (lead vocals, bass) have been joined by Paul Manzi (guitars, keys, vocals), who has performed with the band at various times over the last five years.
With over 55 million records sold worldwide and 34 #1 hits worldwide, Sweet continue to tour and perform to sell-out audiences around the globe.
Sweet – November/ December 2019 UK Dates with Special Guests the Novatines
(tickets www.thegigcartel.com 24-Hour Box Office: 0844 478 0898)
Frome Cheese & Grain - Thursday 28th November
Holmfirth Picturedrome - Friday 29th November
Stockton Arc - Saturday 30th November
Nottingham Rescue Rooms - Sunday 1st December
Bury St Edmunds Apex - Thursday 5th December
Warrington Parr Hall - Friday 6th December
Barrow in Furness Forum - Saturday 7th December
Glasgow Oran Mor - Sunday 8th December
Sage Gateshead - Thursday 12th December
Aberdeen Lemon Tree - Friday 13th December
Edinburgh Queens Hall - Saturday 14th December
Clitheroe Grand - Sunday 15th December
Islington Assembly - Wednesday 18th December
Exeter Phoenix - Thursday 19th December
Southampton 1865 - Friday 20th December
Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion - Saturday 21st December
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There’s something new approaching out of the UK’s modern progressive movement and the shadowy, mid-evening light…
Dusk are a new, progressively focused three piece built around the talents of solo artist Dec Burke (ex Darwin’s Radio and Frost*), Scott Higham (ex Pendragon) and Sean Spear (ex Grey Lady Down and Darwin’s Radio).
Initially formed as a band for Dec Burke’s recent Fusion 2019 festival set, the trio's instant chemistry led immediately thereafter to Dusk, a three-piece that will bring both contemporary heavy rock weight and melodic appeal to their brand of modern prog – a progressive (pun intended) extension of Book of Secrets (Dec Burke's excellent 2016 solo album) but with their own collective voice.
Dusk are a new, progressively focused three piece built around the talents of solo artist Dec Burke (ex Darwin’s Radio and Frost*), Scott Higham (ex Pendragon) and Sean Spear (ex Grey Lady Down and Darwin’s Radio).
Initially formed as a band for Dec Burke’s recent Fusion 2019 festival set, the trio's instant chemistry led immediately thereafter to Dusk, a three-piece that will bring both contemporary heavy rock weight and melodic appeal to their brand of modern prog – a progressive (pun intended) extension of Book of Secrets (Dec Burke's excellent 2016 solo album) but with their own collective voice.
Dusk : Dec Burke – vocals, guitars; Scott Higham – drums, vocals; Sean Spear – bass guitars
https://www.facebook.com/dusk4music/
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https://www.facebook.com/dusk4music/
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Escape Music have recently released Attitude, the debut from British melodic/ rock supergroup Lonerider featuring FM vocalist Steve Overland, legendary drummer Simon Kirke of Free and Bad Company fame, Steve Morris (Heartland) on guitars & keyboards, Thunder’s Chris Childs on bass and Brian J Anthony (acoustic guitar, mandolin, percussion).
The album was released in April and is available on CD and Limited Edition Double LP Vinyl (only 500 vinyl copies were produced, in transparent gold and individually numbered).
The album was produced by the band and mixed and mastered by Brian J Anthony.
Lonerider - Attitude (all songs by Steve Overland/Steve Morris)
1- My Imagination 2- Lonerider 3- Hard Heart to Break 4- Fast Train 5- Wanted Man 6- Yesterday Heroes
7- Angel without Wings 8- Rock ‘N Roll Dreamer 9- One in A Million 10- Gimme Your Love 11- Rhythm of Life 12- Heart & Soul.
Bonus tracks (Double LP Vinyl ONLY):
When Love Leaves Town; Have A Little Faith; Rock ‘N Roll Dreamer (acoustic version); Yesterday Heroes (acoustic version).
With the feel of classic Bad Company yet with modern, fresh and vibrant songs, Lonerider certainly have the quality – and the Attitude.
The album was released in April and is available on CD and Limited Edition Double LP Vinyl (only 500 vinyl copies were produced, in transparent gold and individually numbered).
The album was produced by the band and mixed and mastered by Brian J Anthony.
Lonerider - Attitude (all songs by Steve Overland/Steve Morris)
1- My Imagination 2- Lonerider 3- Hard Heart to Break 4- Fast Train 5- Wanted Man 6- Yesterday Heroes
7- Angel without Wings 8- Rock ‘N Roll Dreamer 9- One in A Million 10- Gimme Your Love 11- Rhythm of Life 12- Heart & Soul.
Bonus tracks (Double LP Vinyl ONLY):
When Love Leaves Town; Have A Little Faith; Rock ‘N Roll Dreamer (acoustic version); Yesterday Heroes (acoustic version).
With the feel of classic Bad Company yet with modern, fresh and vibrant songs, Lonerider certainly have the quality – and the Attitude.
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FabricationsHQ was a champion of the Liverpool based Matchstickmen, a four piece whose 2011 debut album Through Hell… And Kept Going showcased solid, 90s styled alternative rock in a contemporary setting.
It was followed by the even stronger From Our own Ashes, five years later.
From Our Own Ashes was the sort of album that made you keen to hear what the Matchstickmen would come up with next, but the album was somewhat prophetic in its title...
Fate, the departure of bassist Iain Forsyth (Matchstickmen were a true All For One and One For All quartet) and a rebranding meant the Matchstickmen extinguished themselves to rise from their own ashes as Attic Theory, with new members Tim Cunningham (guitars) and Kenny McArthur (bass) joining Lewis Wright (vocals), Peter Donnelly (guitars) and Dave Hornby (drums).
Four of the band also perform as the only UK tribute to the late Scott Weiland and the Stone Temple Pilots (as the Stone Temple Pirates) but new material was always the Sherlock Holmes inspired name of the new band’s game, as the groove meets grunge of debut single 'Saints Among Us' loudly and proudly showcases...
It was followed by the even stronger From Our own Ashes, five years later.
From Our Own Ashes was the sort of album that made you keen to hear what the Matchstickmen would come up with next, but the album was somewhat prophetic in its title...
Fate, the departure of bassist Iain Forsyth (Matchstickmen were a true All For One and One For All quartet) and a rebranding meant the Matchstickmen extinguished themselves to rise from their own ashes as Attic Theory, with new members Tim Cunningham (guitars) and Kenny McArthur (bass) joining Lewis Wright (vocals), Peter Donnelly (guitars) and Dave Hornby (drums).
Four of the band also perform as the only UK tribute to the late Scott Weiland and the Stone Temple Pilots (as the Stone Temple Pirates) but new material was always the Sherlock Holmes inspired name of the new band’s game, as the groove meets grunge of debut single 'Saints Among Us' loudly and proudly showcases...
Attic Theory are also working toward the release of an EP in 2019 with launch help from Toby Jepson and Rob Town in their Lightning In a Bottle guise (a new music consultation agency designed to help musicians and bands).
Website: http://attictheory.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/AtticTheory/
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Website: http://attictheory.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/AtticTheory/
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"A language works best when we have something interesting to say. Many music teachers never find out what their students have to say; we only tell them what they are supposed to say."
Victor Wooten
Victor Wooten