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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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Contributing writers/ reviewers: Nelson McFarlane, Adam Norsworthy
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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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Contributing writers/ reviewers: Nelson McFarlane, Adam Norsworthy
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
As the 'Liftoff' to Dan Reed’s new solo album approaches, the Dan Reed Network front man and electro-rock/ ambient solo artist has premiered the fourth & final Preview Lyric Video from the album, 'Back to Earth.'
A super-chilled, cosmically-themed melange of 11 tracks, Liftoff will be released on Zero One Entertainment’s label and distributed through Townsend Records on 4th December, on CD, streaming and download platforms.
The three previous Preview Lyric videos featured vivid and impacting imagery – the cosmic voyaging of the title track, jaw-dropping footage of Hong Kong’s cityscape and illuminations for 'Spaceship Built For Two' and the robotic and A.I. themed, digitally animated imagery of 'Shed My Skin.'
'Back to Earth' features breath-taking, HD glimpses of the natural world; the beauty and majesty of Earth with echoes of its ancient peoples and cultures.
A super-chilled, cosmically-themed melange of 11 tracks, Liftoff will be released on Zero One Entertainment’s label and distributed through Townsend Records on 4th December, on CD, streaming and download platforms.
The three previous Preview Lyric videos featured vivid and impacting imagery – the cosmic voyaging of the title track, jaw-dropping footage of Hong Kong’s cityscape and illuminations for 'Spaceship Built For Two' and the robotic and A.I. themed, digitally animated imagery of 'Shed My Skin.'
'Back to Earth' features breath-taking, HD glimpses of the natural world; the beauty and majesty of Earth with echoes of its ancient peoples and cultures.
"After pining for idyllic off-world destinations, longing for a moment of respite from earthly problems and our relationship with technology on the first three songs, this track addresses stepping back and appreciating what a gift this beautiful blue and green marble floating in space truly is.
"The video is a tribute to all native peoples who once believed in living in harmony with nature. It opens with a quote from the Native American political prisoner Leonard Peltier and features the voice of the late Oglala Lakota campaigner Russell Means during his opening address to the US Congress in 1989, where he humbly calls on the US Senators to honor Native American rights while addressing them as his ‘relatives’ in 1989.
"This song also features the beautiful voices and vocal arrangements of UK artists Emily Lynn and Lara Smiles on background vocals."
- Dan Reed
The majority of Liftoff was recorded in Dan Reed’s Zero One Studios in Prague, with Reed performing vocals, guitars, keys, bass, and programming drums and percussion.
There are also three guest/ co-write artists on Liftoff: Richard Hilton (keyboardist from Chic), James Bird (from Scottish rock band Mason Hill) and bassist Bengt Jonasson.
You can pre-order Liftoff (CD and all download forms) as well as Liftoff T-Shirts, here:
https://danreed.tmstor.es/
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"The video is a tribute to all native peoples who once believed in living in harmony with nature. It opens with a quote from the Native American political prisoner Leonard Peltier and features the voice of the late Oglala Lakota campaigner Russell Means during his opening address to the US Congress in 1989, where he humbly calls on the US Senators to honor Native American rights while addressing them as his ‘relatives’ in 1989.
"This song also features the beautiful voices and vocal arrangements of UK artists Emily Lynn and Lara Smiles on background vocals."
- Dan Reed
The majority of Liftoff was recorded in Dan Reed’s Zero One Studios in Prague, with Reed performing vocals, guitars, keys, bass, and programming drums and percussion.
There are also three guest/ co-write artists on Liftoff: Richard Hilton (keyboardist from Chic), James Bird (from Scottish rock band Mason Hill) and bassist Bengt Jonasson.
You can pre-order Liftoff (CD and all download forms) as well as Liftoff T-Shirts, here:
https://danreed.tmstor.es/
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Scottish rockers Heavy Pettin have just released their retrospective Best Of album via Burnt Out Wreckords/Cherry Red.
You can find FabricationsHQ’s review of the album on the 2020 Reviews Page
Featuring 14 tracks (chosen by original HP drummer Gary Moat), the Best Of collects tracks across all three of the band’s albums released in the 1980s, including the charting singles Love Times Love,' 'In and Out of Love' and 'Rock Me.'
The album cover is a previously unseen photo by David Plastik taken at The Breaking Sound festival in France in 1984. Other unseen photos of the band have been used to showcase the band at their prime.
Heavy Pettin continue to fly the original Lion Rampant flag with co-founders, vocalist Stephen "Hamie" Hayman and guitarist Gordon Bonnar; Gary Moat fronts his own, guitar-rock band, Burnt Out Wreck, who released their second album This is Hell in 2019.
The Best Of Heavy Pettin order link: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
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You can find FabricationsHQ’s review of the album on the 2020 Reviews Page
Featuring 14 tracks (chosen by original HP drummer Gary Moat), the Best Of collects tracks across all three of the band’s albums released in the 1980s, including the charting singles Love Times Love,' 'In and Out of Love' and 'Rock Me.'
The album cover is a previously unseen photo by David Plastik taken at The Breaking Sound festival in France in 1984. Other unseen photos of the band have been used to showcase the band at their prime.
Heavy Pettin continue to fly the original Lion Rampant flag with co-founders, vocalist Stephen "Hamie" Hayman and guitarist Gordon Bonnar; Gary Moat fronts his own, guitar-rock band, Burnt Out Wreck, who released their second album This is Hell in 2019.
The Best Of Heavy Pettin order link: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
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Kansas have released an official music video for their song 'The Absence of Presence,' the title and opening track of their most recent album, which was released this summer.
The Absence of Presence made an impressive charting debut on the Billboard album charts.
In the US alone, the album debuted at the #4 spot for Current Rock Albums, #5 Internet Albums, #10 Billboard Top Albums, and #10 Top Current Albums.
Worldwide, the album came in at the top spot for Sweden Rock/Metal Albums Chart, #2 for UK Rock Albums, and #4 Switzerland Albums Chart.
Released to fan and critical acclaim, The Absence of Presence is available to stream and purchase at: https://kansas.lnk.to/TheAbsenceofPresence
The album has been widely praised for its musicianship and dedication to the classic Kansas sound.
From Forbes and Billboard to American Songwriter, critics have called it one of the best albums in the band’s lengthy catalogue.
"The Absence of Presence carries atmospheric, modern widescreen moments that are very much a product of present day Kansas but intertwined with that classic Kansas sound, including some rocking interplay between keys, guitars and violin." - FabricationsHQ
The Absence of Presence features nine all new tracks written by the band, produced by Zak Rizvi and
co-produced by ever-presents and co-founders Phil Ehart and Richard Williams.
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In the US alone, the album debuted at the #4 spot for Current Rock Albums, #5 Internet Albums, #10 Billboard Top Albums, and #10 Top Current Albums.
Worldwide, the album came in at the top spot for Sweden Rock/Metal Albums Chart, #2 for UK Rock Albums, and #4 Switzerland Albums Chart.
Released to fan and critical acclaim, The Absence of Presence is available to stream and purchase at: https://kansas.lnk.to/TheAbsenceofPresence
The album has been widely praised for its musicianship and dedication to the classic Kansas sound.
From Forbes and Billboard to American Songwriter, critics have called it one of the best albums in the band’s lengthy catalogue.
"The Absence of Presence carries atmospheric, modern widescreen moments that are very much a product of present day Kansas but intertwined with that classic Kansas sound, including some rocking interplay between keys, guitars and violin." - FabricationsHQ
The Absence of Presence features nine all new tracks written by the band, produced by Zak Rizvi and
co-produced by ever-presents and co-founders Phil Ehart and Richard Williams.
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Nottingham based heavy rock trio BlitZ are following up current album Fight to Survive (released in August 2020) with a Christmas single entitled 'I Believe In Xmas (Do You Believe In Rock And Roll)' in aid of Cancer Research UK.
The single, of which you can hear a teaser below, will be released on 4th December.
In a year where bigger names will be grabbing attention with, frankly, sub-par or even ill-advised/ divisive xmas ditties (take a bow Robbie Williams) it’s refreshing to hear a rockin' festive number from a down to earth band, with the best of charitable intentions, as BlitZ confirm:
"'I Believe In Xmas (Do You Believe In Rock And Roll)' is more than a xmas song; it’s a rallying call to try and help and send out a lifeline to people fighting Cancer and our awesome NHS."
You can donate here: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/blitzs-giving-page
or via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donate/3889244291107934/
The single, of which you can hear a teaser below, will be released on 4th December.
In a year where bigger names will be grabbing attention with, frankly, sub-par or even ill-advised/ divisive xmas ditties (take a bow Robbie Williams) it’s refreshing to hear a rockin' festive number from a down to earth band, with the best of charitable intentions, as BlitZ confirm:
"'I Believe In Xmas (Do You Believe In Rock And Roll)' is more than a xmas song; it’s a rallying call to try and help and send out a lifeline to people fighting Cancer and our awesome NHS."
You can donate here: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/blitzs-giving-page
or via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donate/3889244291107934/
The Cancer Research UK charity is close to the band’s hearts - first diagnosed in 2012 with non-Hodgkinson’s low-grade follicular lymphoma, Gail Corden (wife of lead vocalist/ bassist Stuart Corden) began chemotherapy treatment in 2015. After being carefully monitored for three years, Gail was in remission for nearly five years before the cancer returned in June 2020. A further course of chemotherapy is on-going.
Rebecca Elphick, Local Fundraising Manager for Cancer Research UK said: "Cancer Research UK’s vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. Thanks to our supporters, like BlitZ, our pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has helped save millions of lives.
Unfortunately, COVID 19 has hit our fundraising hard and we’re predicting a drop in income of £160million this year. However, we will adapt and continue to fund the best scientists in the UK.
Your support and donations will help us achieve this."
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Rebecca Elphick, Local Fundraising Manager for Cancer Research UK said: "Cancer Research UK’s vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. Thanks to our supporters, like BlitZ, our pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has helped save millions of lives.
Unfortunately, COVID 19 has hit our fundraising hard and we’re predicting a drop in income of £160million this year. However, we will adapt and continue to fund the best scientists in the UK.
Your support and donations will help us achieve this."
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The extraordinary rise, and story, of blues rock guitar maestro Joe Bonamassa is told in the new documentary entitled Guitar Man, available in Video-On-Demand format, and for Digital purchase, on 8th December from Paramount Home Entertainment.
Pre-order Guitar Man from https://paramnt.us/GuitarManSite
Guitar Man is the definitive story of Joe Bonamassa, whose hard work and determination have made him one of today’s top-selling blues artists.
With more #1 Blues albums than anyone else in history, Bonamassa pulls back the curtain on his career, allowing the fan and viewer to witness his remarkable musical achievements.
Featuring behind the scenes interviews and live concert footage showcasing some of the biggest names in music, Guitar Man is the soundtrack to Joe Bonamassa’s life.
Pre-order Guitar Man from https://paramnt.us/GuitarManSite
Guitar Man is the definitive story of Joe Bonamassa, whose hard work and determination have made him one of today’s top-selling blues artists.
With more #1 Blues albums than anyone else in history, Bonamassa pulls back the curtain on his career, allowing the fan and viewer to witness his remarkable musical achievements.
Featuring behind the scenes interviews and live concert footage showcasing some of the biggest names in music, Guitar Man is the soundtrack to Joe Bonamassa’s life.
In addition to the upcoming film-documentary, Joe Bonamassa is also celebrating his twenty-fourth #1 Blues album Royal Tea, recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
The renowned guitarist has also helped raise money for artists and musicians struggling with live performance shutdowns due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic through his Fueling Musicians programme.
The $375,0000 raised thus far has been given to more than 200 touring musicians whose livelihoods have been halted.
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The renowned guitarist has also helped raise money for artists and musicians struggling with live performance shutdowns due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic through his Fueling Musicians programme.
The $375,0000 raised thus far has been given to more than 200 touring musicians whose livelihoods have been halted.
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Canadian gospel-soul and blues artist Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar have just released a new video for 'Loving You Is Easy,' from their excellent new album The Reckless One (you can read FabricationsHQ’s review on the 2020 Reviews Page).
Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar also performed a special big band Livestream Album Launch show at the Empire Theatre in Belleville, Ontario on the evening of the 20th November.
The stream of what was an outstanding show will hopefully be re-aired in January via National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts.
"The Reckless One is a fabulous album; one that channels many of Canadian singer-songwriter-band leader Samantha Martin’s influences into a musically satisfying fusion and sweet Delta Sugar mix of blues, soul, R&B and Motown." - FabricationsHQ
The Reckless One is available now on Gypsy Soul Records.
https://ffm.to/therecklessone
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The stream of what was an outstanding show will hopefully be re-aired in January via National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts.
"The Reckless One is a fabulous album; one that channels many of Canadian singer-songwriter-band leader Samantha Martin’s influences into a musically satisfying fusion and sweet Delta Sugar mix of blues, soul, R&B and Motown." - FabricationsHQ
The Reckless One is available now on Gypsy Soul Records.
https://ffm.to/therecklessone
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Platinum-selling artist and world-renowned guitarist Orianthi has just issued a video for 'Sorry,' lifted from her long-awaited new album O.
The album was released earlier in November on Frontiers Records.
The album was released earlier in November on Frontiers Records.
Born in Australia, Orianthi rose to international fame at the age of 24 after the release of her hit single, ‘According to You’, which itself had followed a high-energy performance backing Carrie Underwood at the 2009 Grammy Awards ceremony and a subsequent invitation from Michael Jackson to be the guitarist for his ill-fated run of dates at the O2 Arena in London.
Orianthi has also performed with other members of rock royalty such as Alice Cooper, Carlos Santana and Steve Vai, while the posthumous release of the Michael Jackson This Is It documentary showcased her creative playing and collaboration.
Her many accolades include being named one of the Greatest Female Electric Guitarists by Elle magazine, Breakthrough Guitarist of the Year by Guitar International and one of Gibson Guitars’ Top 10 Female Guitar Players of All Time.
Orianthi now has a signature acoustic guitar being released in partnership with Gibson Guitars with first-of-its-kind engineering that will be revealed in early 2021.
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Orianthi has also performed with other members of rock royalty such as Alice Cooper, Carlos Santana and Steve Vai, while the posthumous release of the Michael Jackson This Is It documentary showcased her creative playing and collaboration.
Her many accolades include being named one of the Greatest Female Electric Guitarists by Elle magazine, Breakthrough Guitarist of the Year by Guitar International and one of Gibson Guitars’ Top 10 Female Guitar Players of All Time.
Orianthi now has a signature acoustic guitar being released in partnership with Gibson Guitars with first-of-its-kind engineering that will be revealed in early 2021.
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Due to the current pandemic and uncertainty when live concerts can safely take place, the decision has been made to reschedule the King King February 2021 UK Tour to October 2021 and February 2022.
All tickets remain valid for the new dates.
Tickets are available via www.kingking.co.uk/tour and www.thegigcartel.com
King King, who have been going from strength to strength in recent years, release their fifth studio album Maverick on 27th November via Channel 9 Music (King King’s new independent label).
The 10-track album, released on CD, vinyl and various bundles, is available for pre-order from www.kingking.co.uk
Maverick follows 2017’s critically acclaimed album Exile & Grace and includes the new line-up of founder member Alan Nimmo (vocals/guitar), Stevie Nimmo (guitar), Jonny Dyke (organ/piano), Zander Greenshields (bass) and Andrew Scott (drums).
All tickets remain valid for the new dates.
Tickets are available via www.kingking.co.uk/tour and www.thegigcartel.com
King King, who have been going from strength to strength in recent years, release their fifth studio album Maverick on 27th November via Channel 9 Music (King King’s new independent label).
The 10-track album, released on CD, vinyl and various bundles, is available for pre-order from www.kingking.co.uk
Maverick follows 2017’s critically acclaimed album Exile & Grace and includes the new line-up of founder member Alan Nimmo (vocals/guitar), Stevie Nimmo (guitar), Jonny Dyke (organ/piano), Zander Greenshields (bass) and Andrew Scott (drums).
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When Rivers Meet, featuring the talents of blues-rock husband and wife duo Grace (vocals, mandolin, fiddle) & Aaron (guitars, vocals) Bond, have just released 'Did I Break the Law?' as a single to coincide with the release of debut album, We Fly Free.
We Fly Free was released on the 20th November and is available on CD, coloured vinyl, & digital download.
Fly From Here follows in the blues-rock footsteps of acclaimed EP releases The Uprising and Innocence of Youth.
Meshing traditional blues and classic rock, When Rivers Meet have intentionally honed a gritty sound that includes the use of tube tape echo effects and reverb chambers.
The results are a live sound with a vintage vibe and, on the album, the additional texture of a Hammond organ on a number of tracks.
The album also features Adam Bowers (production/ mixing, drums, bass, organ, piano) and Robin G Breeze (bass, organ, piano).
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Fly From Here follows in the blues-rock footsteps of acclaimed EP releases The Uprising and Innocence of Youth.
Meshing traditional blues and classic rock, When Rivers Meet have intentionally honed a gritty sound that includes the use of tube tape echo effects and reverb chambers.
The results are a live sound with a vintage vibe and, on the album, the additional texture of a Hammond organ on a number of tracks.
The album also features Adam Bowers (production/ mixing, drums, bass, organ, piano) and Robin G Breeze (bass, organ, piano).
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On the back of ear-catching, hook-chorus debut single 'Alone Together' new rock collective Minefield have released a second single entitled 'Home,' with accompanying lyric video.
'Home' also features the same all-star line-up as the debut single with mixing and mastering again handled by Anthony Focx.
You can stream / buy 'Home' here: https://smarturl.it/Minefield-Home
'Home' also features the same all-star line-up as the debut single with mixing and mastering again handled by Anthony Focx.
You can stream / buy 'Home' here: https://smarturl.it/Minefield-Home
US hard rock band Minefield was founded earlier this year by Brandon Fields, lead guitarist with Detroit based Whiskey A Go Go (guitarist/ vocalist Fields has also spent the last several years touring as a solo artist).
More a musical collective than a band or a solo project, 'Alone Together' and 'Home' find guitarist/ vocalist Brandon Fields in the company of vocalist/ bassist Todd Kerns (Slash ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators), guitarist/ vocalist Jeremy Asbrock (Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley) and drummer Matt Starr (Mr. Big, Ace Frehley).
The group recently signed to Golden Robot Records.
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More a musical collective than a band or a solo project, 'Alone Together' and 'Home' find guitarist/ vocalist Brandon Fields in the company of vocalist/ bassist Todd Kerns (Slash ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators), guitarist/ vocalist Jeremy Asbrock (Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley) and drummer Matt Starr (Mr. Big, Ace Frehley).
The group recently signed to Golden Robot Records.
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Steve Hackett will release a new acoustic album, Under a Mediterranean Sky, on 22nd January. The album will be available as a Limited CD Digipak, Gatefold 2LP + CD + LP-booklet and Digital album via InsideOut Music.
This is the luminary guitarist’s first acoustic solo album since Tribute in 2008; the inspiration for the new work came from his extensive travels around the Mediterranean.
Working closely with long-time musical partner Roger King, Steve Hackett has used his time during 2020s lockdown to take himself and the listener on a musical journey around the Mediterranean, painting sonic images of the stunning landscapes and musically celebrating the diverse cultures of the region.
On the album Hackett demonstrates the beauty of the nylon guitar, at times venturing into the exotic & ethnic, often supported by orchestral arrangements.
Only one non-original piece features on the eleven-track album, Domenico Scarlatti’s 'Sonata.'
The tune embodies the Baroque music of Italy, a sensitive interpretation embellished with cross-string trills, a technique introduced to Steve Hackett by the classical guitarist, the late Theo Cheng.
This is the luminary guitarist’s first acoustic solo album since Tribute in 2008; the inspiration for the new work came from his extensive travels around the Mediterranean.
Working closely with long-time musical partner Roger King, Steve Hackett has used his time during 2020s lockdown to take himself and the listener on a musical journey around the Mediterranean, painting sonic images of the stunning landscapes and musically celebrating the diverse cultures of the region.
On the album Hackett demonstrates the beauty of the nylon guitar, at times venturing into the exotic & ethnic, often supported by orchestral arrangements.
Only one non-original piece features on the eleven-track album, Domenico Scarlatti’s 'Sonata.'
The tune embodies the Baroque music of Italy, a sensitive interpretation embellished with cross-string trills, a technique introduced to Steve Hackett by the classical guitarist, the late Theo Cheng.
Photo by Jo Hackett
Under a Mediterranean Sky features:
Steve Hackett - nylon, steel string and twelve string guitars, charango and Iraqi oud.
Roger King - keyboards, programming, orchestral arrangements.
Guest musicians: Rob Townsend (saxophone, flute), Malik Mansurov (tar), Arsen Petrosyan (duduk), John Hackett (flute), Christine Townsend (violin).
"A lot of acoustic ideas had been forming over the years, and it felt like the perfect time to create this album - a time to contemplate the places we’ve visited around the Mediterranean with the kind of music which evolved from the world of imagination.
Because we can’t really travel, substantially at the moment, I hope that the album will take people on that journey. Whether you sit down and listen to it or drift off to it with a glass of wine..."
- Steve Hackett.
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Steve Hackett - nylon, steel string and twelve string guitars, charango and Iraqi oud.
Roger King - keyboards, programming, orchestral arrangements.
Guest musicians: Rob Townsend (saxophone, flute), Malik Mansurov (tar), Arsen Petrosyan (duduk), John Hackett (flute), Christine Townsend (violin).
"A lot of acoustic ideas had been forming over the years, and it felt like the perfect time to create this album - a time to contemplate the places we’ve visited around the Mediterranean with the kind of music which evolved from the world of imagination.
Because we can’t really travel, substantially at the moment, I hope that the album will take people on that journey. Whether you sit down and listen to it or drift off to it with a glass of wine..."
- Steve Hackett.
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British rock band Iconic Eye, who recently confirmed Janey Smith as their new lead singer, will release an EP entitled Back From Behind The Sun on December 4th.
The EP, which features Janey Smith, is available to pre-order from https://iconiceyemusic.com/new-ep
To celebrate, the band have confirmed a socially distanced seated & live stream concert at KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton on Thursday December 3rd (special guests will be Naked Sunday).
Tickets for the event (£15 VIP seats, £12.50 standard seats, £10 live stream) are available from www.betterthanlive.co.uk/event/iconic-eye
The new EP and new merchandise, including T-shirts, will be available on the night.
The title track has also been released as a taster-single.
The EP, which features Janey Smith, is available to pre-order from https://iconiceyemusic.com/new-ep
To celebrate, the band have confirmed a socially distanced seated & live stream concert at KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton on Thursday December 3rd (special guests will be Naked Sunday).
Tickets for the event (£15 VIP seats, £12.50 standard seats, £10 live stream) are available from www.betterthanlive.co.uk/event/iconic-eye
The new EP and new merchandise, including T-shirts, will be available on the night.
The title track has also been released as a taster-single.
The new 5-track EP was recorded at M2 Studios in Coven, West Midlands; it features a cover of Jefferson Starship’s 'Jane' plus four original songs.
Full track listing: Back From Behind the Sun; Jane; Ghost Town; Have My Day; Femme Fatale
Line-Up: Janey Smith (lead vocals); Greg Dean (guitars, keyboards, backing vocals); Neil Hackett (lead guitar); Mike Dagnall (bass, backing vocals); Jon Cooksey (drums).
Iconic Eye hit the rock scene in 2015 when they self-released their debut album Hidden in Plain Sight. The same year they played Jake’s Stage at Download, then Hard Rock Hell in 2016.
Iconic Eye’s second album Into The Light was released in November 2017. The band then started to tour Europe in February 2018, including a Scandinavian tour with Magnum; that same year the band also played Giants of Rock and Planet Rock’s Rockstock Festival.
2019 included notable supports with Hardline (for the third time), Y&T, Pete Way and Last in Line
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Full track listing: Back From Behind the Sun; Jane; Ghost Town; Have My Day; Femme Fatale
Line-Up: Janey Smith (lead vocals); Greg Dean (guitars, keyboards, backing vocals); Neil Hackett (lead guitar); Mike Dagnall (bass, backing vocals); Jon Cooksey (drums).
Iconic Eye hit the rock scene in 2015 when they self-released their debut album Hidden in Plain Sight. The same year they played Jake’s Stage at Download, then Hard Rock Hell in 2016.
Iconic Eye’s second album Into The Light was released in November 2017. The band then started to tour Europe in February 2018, including a Scandinavian tour with Magnum; that same year the band also played Giants of Rock and Planet Rock’s Rockstock Festival.
2019 included notable supports with Hardline (for the third time), Y&T, Pete Way and Last in Line
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The Keith Emerson Estate and Cherry Red Records have announced the long-awaited release of The Official Keith Emerson Tribute Concert.
The concert will be released on March 11th 2021 (the 5th anniversary of Keith Emerson’s passing).
This official 3-disc set brings you the 2016 tribute show in Los Angeles in its entirety, featuring an impressive line-up of musical luminaries performing music from Emerson, Lake & Palmer, The Nice, Emerson, Lake & Powell, The Keith Emerson Band and Keith Emerson’s Three Fates Project.
The two and a half hour concert film features performances by over two dozen prominent artists in rock, jazz and classical music as well as artist interviews, behind- the-scenes footage, tribute speeches and a gallery of personal, never-before-seen photos from the Emerson Estate.
The concert will be released on Blu-ray along with a bonus 2CD set which features an exclusive audio recording of the show.
The concert will be released on March 11th 2021 (the 5th anniversary of Keith Emerson’s passing).
This official 3-disc set brings you the 2016 tribute show in Los Angeles in its entirety, featuring an impressive line-up of musical luminaries performing music from Emerson, Lake & Palmer, The Nice, Emerson, Lake & Powell, The Keith Emerson Band and Keith Emerson’s Three Fates Project.
The two and a half hour concert film features performances by over two dozen prominent artists in rock, jazz and classical music as well as artist interviews, behind- the-scenes footage, tribute speeches and a gallery of personal, never-before-seen photos from the Emerson Estate.
The concert will be released on Blu-ray along with a bonus 2CD set which features an exclusive audio recording of the show.
The talented array of performers contributing to the concert include Brian Auger, Eddie Jobson, Jordan Rudess, Steve Lukather, Steve Porcaro, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, Vinnie Colaiuta, Marc Bonilla, Gregg Bissonnette, CJ Vanston, Troy Luccketta, Rachel Flowers, Terje Mikkelsen, Philippe Saisse, Joe Travers, Travis Davis, Ed Roth, Jonathan Sindelman, Mike Wallace, Mick Mahan, Karma Auger, Rick Livingstone, Kae Matsumoto, Aaron Emerson, Dan Lutz and Michael Fitzpatrick.
"It was a great honour to be asked to play in tribute to not only a friend but a musical giant and hero to us all. RIP Keith. You are so missed."
- Steve Lukather
All proceeds go to The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation charity, which was close to Keith Emerson’s heart.
Artists, crew and all involved donated their skills and time gratis for this worthy cause, which afflicts thousands of musicians annually.
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"It was a great honour to be asked to play in tribute to not only a friend but a musical giant and hero to us all. RIP Keith. You are so missed."
- Steve Lukather
All proceeds go to The Dystonia Medical Research Foundation charity, which was close to Keith Emerson’s heart.
Artists, crew and all involved donated their skills and time gratis for this worthy cause, which afflicts thousands of musicians annually.
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High-energy, hard-rock power trio Molly Karloff continue to make a sonic impact with single 'Do It Again' from their acclaimed EP Supernaturalation, which was released in March.
Now on more than 23000 views on YouTube, the hard-hitting song of no regrets exemplifies the equally hard-hitting approach of the Oxford based band...
Now on more than 23000 views on YouTube, the hard-hitting song of no regrets exemplifies the equally hard-hitting approach of the Oxford based band...
Despite their tour being cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, Molly Karloff — Simon Guilliard (vocals, guitar), Dan Podbery (bass) and Jowie Adkins (drums) — have been busy working on new material and remixing existing tracks, including the current single, with producer Romesh Dodangoda.
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Toto alumni Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams will release individual solo albums on the same day, February 26, 2021, via The Players Club/ Mascot Label Group.
Both artists have also made significant contributions to each other’s album.
Earlier in the year 'Run To Me' was made available as a taster for renowned Toto guitarist Steve Lukather’s solo album, I Found The Sun Again.
Now Toto front man Joseph Williams has revealed 'Never Saw You Coming,' from his own forthcoming solo album, Denizen Tenant.
"This is a happy summer single for less than happy times. It just seemed like this was the right time to release the song. The video co-stars Joseph Williams and Ringo Starr, while the song was written by myself, Joseph Williams and David Paich. A little out of character for myself, but fun. Inspired by my youth…."
- Steve Lukather
Both artists have also made significant contributions to each other’s album.
Earlier in the year 'Run To Me' was made available as a taster for renowned Toto guitarist Steve Lukather’s solo album, I Found The Sun Again.
Now Toto front man Joseph Williams has revealed 'Never Saw You Coming,' from his own forthcoming solo album, Denizen Tenant.
"This is a happy summer single for less than happy times. It just seemed like this was the right time to release the song. The video co-stars Joseph Williams and Ringo Starr, while the song was written by myself, Joseph Williams and David Paich. A little out of character for myself, but fun. Inspired by my youth…."
- Steve Lukather
"Never Saw You Coming" is my first opportunity in ages to show my true sound. Although my album is an eclectic collection of songs, this one tells you what you need to know to get a real sense of the whole.
You can see where I’m going vocally for sure. It all starts with Never Saw You Coming, plus I thought it was time we had a cool, sexy song about death! Enjoy…"
- Joseph Williams
You can see where I’m going vocally for sure. It all starts with Never Saw You Coming, plus I thought it was time we had a cool, sexy song about death! Enjoy…"
- Joseph Williams
You can pre-order the albums, available in CD, Digital and 2LP Blue Vinyl (Steve Lukather) & 2LP Orange Vinyl (Joseph Williams) here: https://smarturl.it/Steve-Lukather https://smarturl.it/JosephWilliams
Additionally, an exclusive 4LP box set of both albums is available via the MLG store.
The box set includes:
I Found The Sun and Denizen Tenant on Marble vinyl (marble vinyl is exclusive to the box set); 2 autographed cover cards; Insert with album comments (30x30 cm); 2 Postcards, 2 Stickers and 1 A2 sized, folded poster.
The box sets are numbered and limited to a maximum of 1000 copies and purchase from the MLG store includes a complimentary MP3 download
Available separately: Exclusive T-shirt (sizes M-XXL)
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Additionally, an exclusive 4LP box set of both albums is available via the MLG store.
The box set includes:
I Found The Sun and Denizen Tenant on Marble vinyl (marble vinyl is exclusive to the box set); 2 autographed cover cards; Insert with album comments (30x30 cm); 2 Postcards, 2 Stickers and 1 A2 sized, folded poster.
The box sets are numbered and limited to a maximum of 1000 copies and purchase from the MLG store includes a complimentary MP3 download
Available separately: Exclusive T-shirt (sizes M-XXL)
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Dyble Longdon, the collaboration between iconic vocalist the late Judy Dyble (ex Fairport Convention, Trader Horne) and Big Big Train multi-instrumentalist & frontman David Longdon, are releasing two unreleased songs digitally as free downloads via Bandcamp and streaming services.
Both make for perfect companion pieces to their critically acclaimed album Between A Breath And A Breath, released in October (you can read FabricationsHQ's Feature Review by clicking here).
The first song, 'Crossbones,' is available now at https://dyblelongdon.bandcamp.com/track/crossbones
The second track, 'The Daguerreotype,' will be available from 11th December.
Listeners will be invited to make a donation for these tracks to Judy Dyble's favoured charity, the Barley Greyhound Sanctuary http://www.barleykennels.co.uk/
Both make for perfect companion pieces to their critically acclaimed album Between A Breath And A Breath, released in October (you can read FabricationsHQ's Feature Review by clicking here).
The first song, 'Crossbones,' is available now at https://dyblelongdon.bandcamp.com/track/crossbones
The second track, 'The Daguerreotype,' will be available from 11th December.
Listeners will be invited to make a donation for these tracks to Judy Dyble's favoured charity, the Barley Greyhound Sanctuary http://www.barleykennels.co.uk/
Photo by Gregory Spawton
"Judy and I set out to make a vinyl length album. Happily we ended up with more material than we needed.
The seven songs that we ultimately selected for the album were all intensely personal lyrics for Judy.
By contrast Crossbones and The Daguerreotype are outliers thematically. Judy and I were equally proud of them in their own right and agreed before her death that they needed to be heard, hence the digital releases."
- David Longdon
"Judy’s cool, clear vocals and his richer tones, combine beautifully in inspired arrangements."
Mike Barnes, Mojo
"Between them David and Judy have gifted us with a graceful poignant and touching record that is a fine testimonial to the unique gentle talent of Judy Dyble."
John Wenlock-Smith, Progradar
"Judy Dyble, between a breath of a respected and not insignificant career and a final breath of passing, in the company of David Longdon, could not have signed-off in more graceful fashion." Ross Muir, FabricationsHQ
The seven songs that we ultimately selected for the album were all intensely personal lyrics for Judy.
By contrast Crossbones and The Daguerreotype are outliers thematically. Judy and I were equally proud of them in their own right and agreed before her death that they needed to be heard, hence the digital releases."
- David Longdon
"Judy’s cool, clear vocals and his richer tones, combine beautifully in inspired arrangements."
Mike Barnes, Mojo
"Between them David and Judy have gifted us with a graceful poignant and touching record that is a fine testimonial to the unique gentle talent of Judy Dyble."
John Wenlock-Smith, Progradar
"Judy Dyble, between a breath of a respected and not insignificant career and a final breath of passing, in the company of David Longdon, could not have signed-off in more graceful fashion." Ross Muir, FabricationsHQ
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European Blues Award winner Erja Lyytinen recently released her Lockdown Live 2020 performance as a live CD & DVD package.
Lockdown Live 2020 also works as a precursor to Erja’s 2021 UK tour that, subject to the COVID-19 situation, takes place in February. Tickets for the UK tour are available from www.erjalyytinen.com/tour
Lockdown Live 2020 takes a retrospective look back on Erja Lyytinen’s long and successful career.
The inclusion of tracks such as 'Wildflower' and 'Dreamland Blues' illustrate the International artist’s beginnings while performances of songs from her last two studio albums, Stolen Hearts and Another World (including Black Ocean, below) bring Lyttinen’s live set repertoire up to the present melodically progressive blues rock date.
Lockdown Live 2020 also works as a precursor to Erja’s 2021 UK tour that, subject to the COVID-19 situation, takes place in February. Tickets for the UK tour are available from www.erjalyytinen.com/tour
Lockdown Live 2020 takes a retrospective look back on Erja Lyytinen’s long and successful career.
The inclusion of tracks such as 'Wildflower' and 'Dreamland Blues' illustrate the International artist’s beginnings while performances of songs from her last two studio albums, Stolen Hearts and Another World (including Black Ocean, below) bring Lyttinen’s live set repertoire up to the present melodically progressive blues rock date.
Erja Lyytinen was in the middle of one of her busiest times of her career when the pandemic struck.
At the start of the year, Lyytinen was riding the crest of a wave through touring and promotional activities that had been catalysed by a string of achievements during 2019.
The previous year Erja Lyytinen had been bestowed the prestigious Savonmuan Hilima Award by the Savon Sanomat newspaper, released her first biographical book titled Blues Queen (Blueskuningatar) and recognised by readers of Guitar World with a spot in their 30 Best Blues Guitarists in the World Today poll.
At the start of the year, Lyytinen was riding the crest of a wave through touring and promotional activities that had been catalysed by a string of achievements during 2019.
The previous year Erja Lyytinen had been bestowed the prestigious Savonmuan Hilima Award by the Savon Sanomat newspaper, released her first biographical book titled Blues Queen (Blueskuningatar) and recognised by readers of Guitar World with a spot in their 30 Best Blues Guitarists in the World Today poll.
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Singer, songwriter and producer Jason Bieler has announced a January 22nd 2021 release for his new solo album, Songs For The Apocalypse, under the moniker Jason Bieler and The Baron Von Bielski Orchestra.
Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/jasonbieler
The album is as rock diverse as the array of Bieler’s musical friends that appear on it, including Todd LaTorre (Queensrÿche), Dave Ellefson (Megadeth), Devin Townsend, Pat Badger (Extreme), Butch Walker (ex-Marvelous 3), Ron Bumblefoot (Sons of Apollo), Clint Lowery (Sevendust), Benji Webbe (Skindred) and Kyle Sanders (Hellyeah).
The first single from the album 'Apology,' features Todd LaTorre (Queensrÿche) on drums, Kevin Scott on bass and guest guitar solo from Andee Blacksugar of KMFDM.
Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/jasonbieler
The album is as rock diverse as the array of Bieler’s musical friends that appear on it, including Todd LaTorre (Queensrÿche), Dave Ellefson (Megadeth), Devin Townsend, Pat Badger (Extreme), Butch Walker (ex-Marvelous 3), Ron Bumblefoot (Sons of Apollo), Clint Lowery (Sevendust), Benji Webbe (Skindred) and Kyle Sanders (Hellyeah).
The first single from the album 'Apology,' features Todd LaTorre (Queensrÿche) on drums, Kevin Scott on bass and guest guitar solo from Andee Blacksugar of KMFDM.
Jason Bieler was initially known for co-founding the Miami, Florida based hard rock act Saigon Kick, who achieved a platinum single with 'Love Is On The Way' from their gold-selling album The Lizard.
He also played in an early touring version of Talisman with Marcel Jacob and Jeff Scott Soto, as well as Super Transatlantic with Extreme bassist Pat Badger, who earned a gold record for their work on the soundtrack for the movie American Pie.
In recent years, Jason Bieler has been touring extensively as a solo artist with a show that features a wide array of musical styles, absurdist humour and numerous special guests.
Together with his brother, he also co-runs the Bieler Bros. record label, which has worked with artists such as Skindred, Will Haven, Nonpoint, Karnivool and Sikth
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He also played in an early touring version of Talisman with Marcel Jacob and Jeff Scott Soto, as well as Super Transatlantic with Extreme bassist Pat Badger, who earned a gold record for their work on the soundtrack for the movie American Pie.
In recent years, Jason Bieler has been touring extensively as a solo artist with a show that features a wide array of musical styles, absurdist humour and numerous special guests.
Together with his brother, he also co-runs the Bieler Bros. record label, which has worked with artists such as Skindred, Will Haven, Nonpoint, Karnivool and Sikth
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Melodic rock supergroup W.E.T. have announced the upcoming release of their fourth album, Retransmission.
The album, which will be released on 22nd January 2021 (CD, LP, limited edition colour vinyl, digital), is preceded by the single 'Big Boys Don’t Cry.'
The album, which will be released on 22nd January 2021 (CD, LP, limited edition colour vinyl, digital), is preceded by the single 'Big Boys Don’t Cry.'
Core members Jeff Scott Soto, Erik Mårtensson and Robert Säll have delivered another album that epitomises what melodic rock is all about in the new decade.
The key element of W.E.T. has always been to create a modern, melodic hard rock sound to drive the genre into the future with the addition of powerhouse rhythms and a top-notch production (courtesy of Mårtensson).
The end result is a sound, and songs, that are both classic and contemporary.
After their genre-defining 2009 self-titled debut, Robert Säll (the W from Work of Art), Erik Mårtensson (the E from Eclipse) and Jeff Scott Soto (the T from Talisman) followed the debut up with the even stronger Rise Up in 2013. The band’s third album, Earthrage, further cemented their growing legacy.
W.E.T.
Jeff Scott Soto - lead vocals; Erik Mårtensson - rhythm guitar, additional lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals; Robert Säll - keyboards, guitar; Magnus Henriksson - lead guitar
Andreas Passmark - bass guitar; Robban Bäck – drums
Retransmission pre-order link: https://orcd.co/retransmission
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The key element of W.E.T. has always been to create a modern, melodic hard rock sound to drive the genre into the future with the addition of powerhouse rhythms and a top-notch production (courtesy of Mårtensson).
The end result is a sound, and songs, that are both classic and contemporary.
After their genre-defining 2009 self-titled debut, Robert Säll (the W from Work of Art), Erik Mårtensson (the E from Eclipse) and Jeff Scott Soto (the T from Talisman) followed the debut up with the even stronger Rise Up in 2013. The band’s third album, Earthrage, further cemented their growing legacy.
W.E.T.
Jeff Scott Soto - lead vocals; Erik Mårtensson - rhythm guitar, additional lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals; Robert Säll - keyboards, guitar; Magnus Henriksson - lead guitar
Andreas Passmark - bass guitar; Robban Bäck – drums
Retransmission pre-order link: https://orcd.co/retransmission
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London based blues rock guitarist-singer-songwriter Jack J Hutchinson has released the first single (and video), 'World On Fire,' from his forthcoming studio album, The Hammer Falls.
You can purchase here: https://bit.ly/JJHWorldOnFire
'World On Fire,' a muscly and gritty blues rocker that mixes a Sabbath-styled riff with a sing-a-long chorus and a down-tempo change-of-pace middle 8, was recorded in Brazil and produced by Lucas Sagaz, who mixed Hutchinson’s recent live album 'Who Feeds The Lockdown?'
The song was co-written with band mates Lazarus Michaelides (bass) and Felipe Amorim (drums).
You can purchase here: https://bit.ly/JJHWorldOnFire
'World On Fire,' a muscly and gritty blues rocker that mixes a Sabbath-styled riff with a sing-a-long chorus and a down-tempo change-of-pace middle 8, was recorded in Brazil and produced by Lucas Sagaz, who mixed Hutchinson’s recent live album 'Who Feeds The Lockdown?'
The song was co-written with band mates Lazarus Michaelides (bass) and Felipe Amorim (drums).
The B-side to the single (released on both limited edition silver 'vinyl style' CD and digital), is another new track, 'Ghosts Of Yesterday.'
Written during lockdown in response to the global pandemic, the reflective acoustic-electric 'Ghosts of Yesterday' was recorded by the band in their individual home studios and mixed by Lucas Sagaz in Brazil.
Commenting on 'World On Fire,' Jack J Hutchinson says: "We wrote and recorded World On Fire in the middle of a remote forest in Brazil. It had an incredible vibe that pushed us to try new things. I actually slept on the floor of the studio whilst I was there to really soak it up.
The song was written before the pandemic, but since the events of this year it has taken on an even greater meaning. 2020 has been a kick in the teeth for everyone, but in many ways it gives us an opportunity to rip up the norm and start again. We have to remain positive."
The band are currently working on the forthcoming album at Momentum Studios in Devon.
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Written during lockdown in response to the global pandemic, the reflective acoustic-electric 'Ghosts of Yesterday' was recorded by the band in their individual home studios and mixed by Lucas Sagaz in Brazil.
Commenting on 'World On Fire,' Jack J Hutchinson says: "We wrote and recorded World On Fire in the middle of a remote forest in Brazil. It had an incredible vibe that pushed us to try new things. I actually slept on the floor of the studio whilst I was there to really soak it up.
The song was written before the pandemic, but since the events of this year it has taken on an even greater meaning. 2020 has been a kick in the teeth for everyone, but in many ways it gives us an opportunity to rip up the norm and start again. We have to remain positive."
The band are currently working on the forthcoming album at Momentum Studios in Devon.
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Steve Perry will release Traces – Alternate Versions & Sketches on December 4th.
A revisit of some of Steve Perry’s favourite tracks from his 2018 comeback album Traces, the songs have been stripped back from their larger production sound or bigger arrangements to take them back to their original essence or, in some cases, sketch form.
Tracks such as 'Sun Shines Gray,' 'No Erasin’,' 'No More Cryin’' and 'Most Of All' take on newer and even vocally richer meaning in an even more intimate setting...
A revisit of some of Steve Perry’s favourite tracks from his 2018 comeback album Traces, the songs have been stripped back from their larger production sound or bigger arrangements to take them back to their original essence or, in some cases, sketch form.
Tracks such as 'Sun Shines Gray,' 'No Erasin’,' 'No More Cryin’' and 'Most Of All' take on newer and even vocally richer meaning in an even more intimate setting...
Produced by Steve Perry and his long-time collaborator and friend, Thom Flowers, Traces – Alternate Versions & Sketches provides an interesting and fascinating glimpse into the luminary singer’s creative/ writing processes…
"When writing these songs, the original inspiration is always my first compass – where the songs should go. Alternate Versions and Sketches is exactly that… the original seeds of these songs."
- Steve Perry
A number of exclusive/ signed Merch Bundles will also be available, including signed Blue Translucent Deluxe 2xLP + Picture Disc sets and a 12” drumhead featuring the new album artwork.
Additionally all Vinyl & CD orders include a free 2D magnet. The 'Supreme' and 'Sun Shines Gray' bundles will also include two free protective masks
You pre-order/ view bundle options here: https://traces.steveperry.com/
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"When writing these songs, the original inspiration is always my first compass – where the songs should go. Alternate Versions and Sketches is exactly that… the original seeds of these songs."
- Steve Perry
A number of exclusive/ signed Merch Bundles will also be available, including signed Blue Translucent Deluxe 2xLP + Picture Disc sets and a 12” drumhead featuring the new album artwork.
Additionally all Vinyl & CD orders include a free 2D magnet. The 'Supreme' and 'Sun Shines Gray' bundles will also include two free protective masks
You pre-order/ view bundle options here: https://traces.steveperry.com/
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Award-winning and genre-crossing Blues, Roots and Americana singer-songwriter Elles Bailey has just announced the forthcoming release of a new covers album Ain’t Nothing But, due out on December 11th.
The album is preceded by a new single & video, 'Crowded Table.'
(The song, written by Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna, was originally recorded and released by country music supergroup The Highwomen in 2019).
The album is preceded by a new single & video, 'Crowded Table.'
(The song, written by Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby and Lori McKenna, was originally recorded and released by country music supergroup The Highwomen in 2019).
Ain’t Nothing But is a 16-track covers album, recorded live as part of Elles Bailey’s Ain't Nothing But livestream series at White Noise Studios during the summer of 2020.
The album draws from two of the smoky voiced songstress’ three livestream shows: Ain't Nothing But The Lyrics and Ain't Nothing But The Blues.
The album also features, across various tracks, performances from Joe Wilkins (guitar & background vocals), Phil King (guitar & background vocals) and Joe James (double bass & background vocals).
"In March 2020 the live music industry was plunged into the half-light.
Artists & musicians flooded the virtual stage in a desperate way to still spread a little love, a little hope, & connect with our fans. Early lockdown festivals paved the way for three months of home streaming of varying quality but by mid-June, I believe, the audience & the artists were craving something different.
That's when my series Ain't Nothing But was born.
This album is a snapshot of the 'Lyrics' & 'Blues' shows: the 'Best of,' we could call it. It is totally unedited, completely stripped back & bare to the bone."
- Elles Bailey
Outside of the studio and beyond livestreaming, Elles Bailey was recently exhilarated to be able to get out into her natural habitat and play several live gigs: COVID-secure 'Duo' shows and COVID-secure 'Full Band' shows, during October.
However all her November shows have now been postponed due to current measures.
Ain’t Nothing But will be a CD Only release (the singles however will be available on digital platforms worldwide upon release); it’s available to pre-order now from:
https://www.ellesbailey.com/store
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The album draws from two of the smoky voiced songstress’ three livestream shows: Ain't Nothing But The Lyrics and Ain't Nothing But The Blues.
The album also features, across various tracks, performances from Joe Wilkins (guitar & background vocals), Phil King (guitar & background vocals) and Joe James (double bass & background vocals).
"In March 2020 the live music industry was plunged into the half-light.
Artists & musicians flooded the virtual stage in a desperate way to still spread a little love, a little hope, & connect with our fans. Early lockdown festivals paved the way for three months of home streaming of varying quality but by mid-June, I believe, the audience & the artists were craving something different.
That's when my series Ain't Nothing But was born.
This album is a snapshot of the 'Lyrics' & 'Blues' shows: the 'Best of,' we could call it. It is totally unedited, completely stripped back & bare to the bone."
- Elles Bailey
Outside of the studio and beyond livestreaming, Elles Bailey was recently exhilarated to be able to get out into her natural habitat and play several live gigs: COVID-secure 'Duo' shows and COVID-secure 'Full Band' shows, during October.
However all her November shows have now been postponed due to current measures.
Ain’t Nothing But will be a CD Only release (the singles however will be available on digital platforms worldwide upon release); it’s available to pre-order now from:
https://www.ellesbailey.com/store
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Singer-songwriter Luke Concannon recently released the single 'Doing Nothing' from his forthcoming solo album Ecstatic Bird in the Burning (to be released 5th February 2021).
As delightful as the song is, its charm is increased by a wonderful accompanying video that features a very familiar face – in marionette form….
Of the song, and its lyrical theme, Luke Concannon recalls that "I wrote this in a friend’s remote Welsh shepherd’s hut - no electricity, running water or reception.
It’s an honest song about the addictions that keep me from flourishing sometimes, wanting to take the easy route of consuming media, or whatever distractions I can get, rather than bravely showing up with my heart on my sleeve."
As delightful as the song is, its charm is increased by a wonderful accompanying video that features a very familiar face – in marionette form….
Of the song, and its lyrical theme, Luke Concannon recalls that "I wrote this in a friend’s remote Welsh shepherd’s hut - no electricity, running water or reception.
It’s an honest song about the addictions that keep me from flourishing sometimes, wanting to take the easy route of consuming media, or whatever distractions I can get, rather than bravely showing up with my heart on my sleeve."
When you’re Ed Sheeran’s hero and one half of cult underground folk hip hop act Nizlopi (with a #1 single in the UK and Ireland in 2005 with 'The JCB Song'), you’ve got a tale to tell.
And a complex one at that…
After experiencing the highs of fame and success as a songwriter in his 20’s the subsequent heartbreak of losing his band and community was tough for Luke Concannon.
He hitchhiked to Palestine, volunteering as a peace worker in the West Bank. After meeting the American classical singer Stephanie Hollenberg on holiday, he followed her back to the USA where they married in 2018.
His first new album in eight years (and only his second solo album), Ecstatic Bird in the Burning is an honest collection of songs written whilst staying on Grammy and Tony award winning song writer Anais Mitchell’s farm.
In the best tradition of his Irish roots, storytelling runs through Luke Concannon’s musical bones - part love letter, part poem, part call to action, the album alternates between grief and zest for life, despair and hope, anger and love, destruction and growth.
It explores the ecstasy of being alive, even (perhaps especially now) in a burning world.
"One of my three main influences along with Van Morrison."
- Ed Sheeran
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And a complex one at that…
After experiencing the highs of fame and success as a songwriter in his 20’s the subsequent heartbreak of losing his band and community was tough for Luke Concannon.
He hitchhiked to Palestine, volunteering as a peace worker in the West Bank. After meeting the American classical singer Stephanie Hollenberg on holiday, he followed her back to the USA where they married in 2018.
His first new album in eight years (and only his second solo album), Ecstatic Bird in the Burning is an honest collection of songs written whilst staying on Grammy and Tony award winning song writer Anais Mitchell’s farm.
In the best tradition of his Irish roots, storytelling runs through Luke Concannon’s musical bones - part love letter, part poem, part call to action, the album alternates between grief and zest for life, despair and hope, anger and love, destruction and growth.
It explores the ecstasy of being alive, even (perhaps especially now) in a burning world.
"One of my three main influences along with Van Morrison."
- Ed Sheeran
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Eric Gales has rescheduled his 2021 UK tour to February 2022 (subject to Covid-19 restrictions).
The tour follows the release of his album The Bookends via Provogue/Mascot Label Group in 2019.
The album features collaborations with B. Slade, Doyle Bramhall II and Beth Hart.
Tickets for all dates are on sale via www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Gales
Previously bought tickets for all shows are still valid. Customers unable to attend the rescheduled date should contact their original point of purchase for a refund.
The tour follows the release of his album The Bookends via Provogue/Mascot Label Group in 2019.
The album features collaborations with B. Slade, Doyle Bramhall II and Beth Hart.
Tickets for all dates are on sale via www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Gales
Previously bought tickets for all shows are still valid. Customers unable to attend the rescheduled date should contact their original point of purchase for a refund.
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The Starlite Campbell Band, featuring husband and wife duo Suzy Starlite (vocals/ bass) and Simon Campbell (guitars/ vocals) have just released their version of the Blind Faith classic 'Can't Find My Way Home' as a single, with accompanying video.
The song also features Steve Gibson (drums) and Jonny Henderson (Hammond).
The video was filmed on a late summer's evening in Lower Saxony, Germany, beautifully complementing the relaxed warmth of a cover that nods in tribute to the arrangement of the original while emphasising Suzy Starlite’s lovely lead voice in the vocal company of Simon Campbell.
The song also features Steve Gibson (drums) and Jonny Henderson (Hammond).
The video was filmed on a late summer's evening in Lower Saxony, Germany, beautifully complementing the relaxed warmth of a cover that nods in tribute to the arrangement of the original while emphasising Suzy Starlite’s lovely lead voice in the vocal company of Simon Campbell.
'Can't Find My Way Home' will feature on the band’s forthcoming studio album The Language of Curiosity, which will be released in April of next year.
The album, which will be available in limited edition 180g vinyl, CD and digital can be pre-ordered here:
https://starlite-campbell.com/album/1217581/the-language-of-curiosity
You can also join Suzy Starlite & Simon Campbell 'Backstage' to become a patron of the band.
Patron level two members, or above, will receive a complimentary download of 'Can't Find My Way Home' plus the two previous singles 'Stone Cold Crazy' and 'Lay It Out On Me.'
Patron subscriptions start as low at £5.00 per month or £30.00 per year.
More information here: https://starlite-campbell.com/backstage
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The album, which will be available in limited edition 180g vinyl, CD and digital can be pre-ordered here:
https://starlite-campbell.com/album/1217581/the-language-of-curiosity
You can also join Suzy Starlite & Simon Campbell 'Backstage' to become a patron of the band.
Patron level two members, or above, will receive a complimentary download of 'Can't Find My Way Home' plus the two previous singles 'Stone Cold Crazy' and 'Lay It Out On Me.'
Patron subscriptions start as low at £5.00 per month or £30.00 per year.
More information here: https://starlite-campbell.com/backstage
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Southampton based singer songwriter Jack Francis has just released the smooth, old school 'A Little Love' as a brand new single.
Jack Francis is an old soul. A performer who commands the respect of all who see him play.
A truly great craftsman of song and with an admirable work ethic, Jack Francis regularly ups sticks from his hometown of Southampton to travel the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland (where his roots lie) playing basements, backrooms, clubs and bars.
But there have also been some big festival performances in recent times for the singer, who has appeared at Isle Of Wight, Victorious and the Stone Free festival at the O2 arena.
With BBC Introducing already championing his previous work and with plays on Tom Robinson’s BBC Radio 6 show, Jack Francis goes into the next phase of his musical career with what is believed to be a game-changing song.
“Brilliant voice and amazing songwriting talent.”
- BBC Introducing.
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The Quireboys have re-scheduled the January and February 2021 tour dates of their A Bit Of What You Fancy UK Tour to October - November 2021 and January 2022.
All tickets remain valid.
The tour will celebrate the recent re-release of A Bit Of What You Fancy – commemorating its 30th Anniversary. Tickets are on sale via www.thegigcartel.com
Australian beer drinking rock ‘n’ roll warriors Massive, who are no strangers to rock fans in the UK, are returning as tour support for the Quireboys.
The band will be promoting their third studio album Rebuild Destroy out now through Off Yer Rocka Recordings.
To mark the 30th Anniversary of A Bit Of What You Fancy, the Quireboys are currently re-recording their iconic debut album with their current Gypsy Rock & Roll sound.
The album will be available on CD (with bonus live tracks) in mid-December 2020 and on vinyl in January 2021; both will be on limited edition runs.
Pre-order the album here – https://offyerrocka.com/product-category/artists/the-quireboys
All tickets remain valid.
The tour will celebrate the recent re-release of A Bit Of What You Fancy – commemorating its 30th Anniversary. Tickets are on sale via www.thegigcartel.com
Australian beer drinking rock ‘n’ roll warriors Massive, who are no strangers to rock fans in the UK, are returning as tour support for the Quireboys.
The band will be promoting their third studio album Rebuild Destroy out now through Off Yer Rocka Recordings.
To mark the 30th Anniversary of A Bit Of What You Fancy, the Quireboys are currently re-recording their iconic debut album with their current Gypsy Rock & Roll sound.
The album will be available on CD (with bonus live tracks) in mid-December 2020 and on vinyl in January 2021; both will be on limited edition runs.
Pre-order the album here – https://offyerrocka.com/product-category/artists/the-quireboys
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Singer-guitarist Jim Kirkpatrick has just released a new video for 'Brave New World,' the feature, near eight minute track from recently released and critically acclaimed solo album Ballad of a Prodigal Son, which was given Feature Review status on FabricationsHQ.
While best-known as the lead guitarist for British melodic rockers FM, with whom he’s served since 2008, Jim Kirkpatrick is well-respected in the blues and rock scenes, both as a songwriter and skilled guitarist.
Of 'Brave New World' Jim Kirkpatrick says: "It's the big guitar track on the album; a tip of the hat to Pink Floyd, Robin Trower Jimi's 'Machine Gun' and Free's 'Mr Big': all mixed into one.
I got the idea for the title when FM were travelling through The Mojave Desert earlier this year. I'd recorded the track, but hadn't finished the lyrics.
It crossed my mind that someone like ace songwriter Thea Gilmore could write an awesome and much better lyric than me for something like this, so I asked her if she'd be interested in helping out.
I emailed her the rough mix with my melody and she sent the finished lyric back two hours later!
The result is what many people are calling their favourite track on the album."
While best-known as the lead guitarist for British melodic rockers FM, with whom he’s served since 2008, Jim Kirkpatrick is well-respected in the blues and rock scenes, both as a songwriter and skilled guitarist.
Of 'Brave New World' Jim Kirkpatrick says: "It's the big guitar track on the album; a tip of the hat to Pink Floyd, Robin Trower Jimi's 'Machine Gun' and Free's 'Mr Big': all mixed into one.
I got the idea for the title when FM were travelling through The Mojave Desert earlier this year. I'd recorded the track, but hadn't finished the lyrics.
It crossed my mind that someone like ace songwriter Thea Gilmore could write an awesome and much better lyric than me for something like this, so I asked her if she'd be interested in helping out.
I emailed her the rough mix with my melody and she sent the finished lyric back two hours later!
The result is what many people are calling their favourite track on the album."
Ballad of a Prodigal Son is available now.
"If you’re sitting there waiting with bated breath waiting for the new Joe Bonamassa album, then stop it. Breathe. Relax. And get your order in for ‘Ballad of a Prodigal Son’.
- Blues Enthused
"What we have in Jim Kirkpatrick is England’s equivalent to Joe Bonamassa. This is the joint album of the year. Fact.”
- Blues Matters
"Ballad of A Prodigal Son is an album that shows Kirkpatrick as a prolific songwriter and riff maker."
- Blues Rock Review
"The prodigal son has returned with a blues rock belter"
- FabricationsHQ
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"If you’re sitting there waiting with bated breath waiting for the new Joe Bonamassa album, then stop it. Breathe. Relax. And get your order in for ‘Ballad of a Prodigal Son’.
- Blues Enthused
"What we have in Jim Kirkpatrick is England’s equivalent to Joe Bonamassa. This is the joint album of the year. Fact.”
- Blues Matters
"Ballad of A Prodigal Son is an album that shows Kirkpatrick as a prolific songwriter and riff maker."
- Blues Rock Review
"The prodigal son has returned with a blues rock belter"
- FabricationsHQ
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Photo © Gustaf Sandholm Andersson rawfoto.se
Swedish rock band H.E.A.T have announced that lead singer Erik Grönwall will be leaving the band; his replacement will be original H.E.A.T vocalist Kenny Leckremo.
The news comes after the success of the band’s critically acclaimed sixth studio album H.E.A.T II which featured the singles 'Dangerous Ground,' 'Rock Your Body,' 'Rise,' 'Come Clean' and 'One By One.'
The original founding members of H.E.A.T issued the following statement about Erik leaving the group to pursue other interests:
"First of all, we want to thank Erik for all the crazy fun and epic travels around the world the past 10 years. Together we made H.E.A.T what it is today.
Secondly, we want to welcome back founding member and original vocalist Kenny Leckremo to the band. We’re looking forward to write the next chapter of H.E.A.T story together."
It’s like a shot at redemption,” commented Kenny Leckremo, adding "I’m thrilled to be back, and to be a part of what H.E.A.T is today.
No longer just a shadow of the past, but a force into the future. The H.E.A.T legacy continues.”
"H.E.A.T has really been a place for me to grow as an individual, singer and frontman. The guys recruited this young Swedish Idol guy and believed more in me and my potential than I did myself. I am forever grateful for that. Gentlemen it’s been a pleasure touring the world with you. I’ve learned a lot from you and you’ve made me stronger. I look forward to building more memories with you, just not collectively as H.E.A.T.”
- Erik Grönwall
H.E.A.T UK TOUR October 2021
(Special Guests: Vega, Mason Hill and Collateral)
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Thursday 7th October 2021
Leeds, The Warehouse - Friday 8th October 2021
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Sunday 10th October 2021
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Monday 11th October 2021
London, Electric Brixton - Tuesday 12th October 2021
EUROPEAN DATES October & November 2021
Thursday 14th October 2021 - Baroeg, Rotterdam, NL
Friday 15th October 2021 - Rockpalast, Bochum, DE
Saturday 16th October 2021 - Spiraal, Geraardsbergen, BE
Sunday 17th October 2021 - Le Grillen, Colmar, FR
Monday 18th October 2021 - Nouveau Casino, Paris, FR
Wednesday 20th October 2021 - Rock’n’Eat, Lyon, FR
Thursday 21st October 2021 - Razzmatazz 2, Barcelona, ES
Friday 22nd October 2021 - Mon Live, Madrid, ES
Saturday 23rd October 2021 - ANDEN 56, Burgos, ES
Monday 25th October 2021 - Z7, Pratteln, CH
Tuesday 26th October 2021 - Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, DE
Wednesday 27th October 2021 - Mergener Hof, Trier, DE
Friday 29th October 2021 - Legend Club, Milano, IT
Saturday 30th October 2021 - Schalchthaus, Dornbirn, AT
Sunday 31st October 2021 - Backstage, Munich, DE
Monday 1st November 2021 - Knust, Hamburg, DE
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The news comes after the success of the band’s critically acclaimed sixth studio album H.E.A.T II which featured the singles 'Dangerous Ground,' 'Rock Your Body,' 'Rise,' 'Come Clean' and 'One By One.'
The original founding members of H.E.A.T issued the following statement about Erik leaving the group to pursue other interests:
"First of all, we want to thank Erik for all the crazy fun and epic travels around the world the past 10 years. Together we made H.E.A.T what it is today.
Secondly, we want to welcome back founding member and original vocalist Kenny Leckremo to the band. We’re looking forward to write the next chapter of H.E.A.T story together."
It’s like a shot at redemption,” commented Kenny Leckremo, adding "I’m thrilled to be back, and to be a part of what H.E.A.T is today.
No longer just a shadow of the past, but a force into the future. The H.E.A.T legacy continues.”
"H.E.A.T has really been a place for me to grow as an individual, singer and frontman. The guys recruited this young Swedish Idol guy and believed more in me and my potential than I did myself. I am forever grateful for that. Gentlemen it’s been a pleasure touring the world with you. I’ve learned a lot from you and you’ve made me stronger. I look forward to building more memories with you, just not collectively as H.E.A.T.”
- Erik Grönwall
H.E.A.T UK TOUR October 2021
(Special Guests: Vega, Mason Hill and Collateral)
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Thursday 7th October 2021
Leeds, The Warehouse - Friday 8th October 2021
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Sunday 10th October 2021
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Monday 11th October 2021
London, Electric Brixton - Tuesday 12th October 2021
EUROPEAN DATES October & November 2021
Thursday 14th October 2021 - Baroeg, Rotterdam, NL
Friday 15th October 2021 - Rockpalast, Bochum, DE
Saturday 16th October 2021 - Spiraal, Geraardsbergen, BE
Sunday 17th October 2021 - Le Grillen, Colmar, FR
Monday 18th October 2021 - Nouveau Casino, Paris, FR
Wednesday 20th October 2021 - Rock’n’Eat, Lyon, FR
Thursday 21st October 2021 - Razzmatazz 2, Barcelona, ES
Friday 22nd October 2021 - Mon Live, Madrid, ES
Saturday 23rd October 2021 - ANDEN 56, Burgos, ES
Monday 25th October 2021 - Z7, Pratteln, CH
Tuesday 26th October 2021 - Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, DE
Wednesday 27th October 2021 - Mergener Hof, Trier, DE
Friday 29th October 2021 - Legend Club, Milano, IT
Saturday 30th October 2021 - Schalchthaus, Dornbirn, AT
Sunday 31st October 2021 - Backstage, Munich, DE
Monday 1st November 2021 - Knust, Hamburg, DE
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Following the release of, and rave reviews for, their brand new studio album The Symbol Remains, Blue Öyster Cult will continue their live archival releases from the BÖC vaults with two more albums on the 4th December : Live at Rock Of Ages Festival 2016 and a reissue of 2002’s A Long Day's Night’.
Both will be available on CD+DVD, Blu-Ray, LP and digital formats.
BÖC performed an inspired set on the second day of the Rock of Ages Festival 2016 in Seebronn, Germany. One of the band’s few appearances on German soil in recent years, they delivered a memorable set that included 'This Ain't The Summer Of Love,' 'Burnin’ For You,' 'Golden Age Of Leather,' 'Then Came The Last Days Of May,' 'Godzilla,' '(Don’t Fear) The Reaper' and 'Harvest Moon'...
Both will be available on CD+DVD, Blu-Ray, LP and digital formats.
BÖC performed an inspired set on the second day of the Rock of Ages Festival 2016 in Seebronn, Germany. One of the band’s few appearances on German soil in recent years, they delivered a memorable set that included 'This Ain't The Summer Of Love,' 'Burnin’ For You,' 'Golden Age Of Leather,' 'Then Came The Last Days Of May,' 'Godzilla,' '(Don’t Fear) The Reaper' and 'Harvest Moon'...
An out of print live release, A Long Day's Night was recorded on 21st June 2002 at the Navy Pier/Skyline Stage in Chicago. Taking place on the summer solstice (hence its title), it celebrated three decades of music from the band to that point.
Aside from over two hours of concert footage, the reissue includes rare interview footage, behind the scenes coverage, fan interviews, biographical and discography information.
The audio on all formats has been completely restored and remastered to achieve a new, higher level listening experience.
LIVE AT ROCK OF AGES FESTIVAL 2016
CD: This Ain't The Summer Of Love; Golden Age Of Leather; Burnin' For You; Od'd On Life Itself; Harvest Moon; Me 262; Buck's Boogie; Lips In The Hills; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
DVD & Blu-ray: Golden Age Of Leather; Burnin' For You; Od'd On Life Itself; Harvest Moon; Me 262; Buck's Boogie; Lips In The Hills; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Blu-ray bonus audio: This Ain’t The Summer Of Love (Stereo and Surround Mixes)
LINE-UP: Eric Bloom - vocals, guitar, keyboards;
Donald ‘Buck Dharma’ Roeser - guitar, vocals; Richie Castellano - keyboards, guitar, vocals; Jules Radino - drums, percussion; Kasim Sulton - bass, vocals
Aside from over two hours of concert footage, the reissue includes rare interview footage, behind the scenes coverage, fan interviews, biographical and discography information.
The audio on all formats has been completely restored and remastered to achieve a new, higher level listening experience.
LIVE AT ROCK OF AGES FESTIVAL 2016
CD: This Ain't The Summer Of Love; Golden Age Of Leather; Burnin' For You; Od'd On Life Itself; Harvest Moon; Me 262; Buck's Boogie; Lips In The Hills; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
DVD & Blu-ray: Golden Age Of Leather; Burnin' For You; Od'd On Life Itself; Harvest Moon; Me 262; Buck's Boogie; Lips In The Hills; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Blu-ray bonus audio: This Ain’t The Summer Of Love (Stereo and Surround Mixes)
LINE-UP: Eric Bloom - vocals, guitar, keyboards;
Donald ‘Buck Dharma’ Roeser - guitar, vocals; Richie Castellano - keyboards, guitar, vocals; Jules Radino - drums, percussion; Kasim Sulton - bass, vocals
A LONG DAY'S NIGHT
CD: Stairway To The Stars; Burnin’ For You; O.D.'d On Life Itself; Dance On Stilts; Buck's Boogie; Mistress Of The Salmon Salt (Quicklime Girl); Harvest Moon; Astronomy; Cities On Flame With Rock ‘N’ Roll; Perfect Water; Lips In The Hills; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
DVD & Blu-ray: Stairway To The Stars; Burnin’ For You; O.D.'d On Life Itself; E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence); Dance On Stilts; Harvester Of Eyes; Buck's Boogie; Mistress Of The Salmon Salt (Quicklime Girl); Flaming Telepaths; Harvest Moon; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Cities On Flame With Rock ’N’ Roll; ME 262; Perfect Water; Lips In The Hills; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper; Dominance And Submission; The Red And The Black
Blu-ray bonus video: Joan Crawford (previously unreleased performance); Astronomy (previously unreleased performance)
LINE-UP: Eric Bloom - vocals, guitar, keyboards; Donald ‘Buck Dharma’ Roeser - guitar, vocals; Allen Lanier - keyboards, guitar; Bobby Rondinelli - drums, percussion; Danny Miranda - bass, vocals
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CD: Stairway To The Stars; Burnin’ For You; O.D.'d On Life Itself; Dance On Stilts; Buck's Boogie; Mistress Of The Salmon Salt (Quicklime Girl); Harvest Moon; Astronomy; Cities On Flame With Rock ‘N’ Roll; Perfect Water; Lips In The Hills; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper
DVD & Blu-ray: Stairway To The Stars; Burnin’ For You; O.D.'d On Life Itself; E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence); Dance On Stilts; Harvester Of Eyes; Buck's Boogie; Mistress Of The Salmon Salt (Quicklime Girl); Flaming Telepaths; Harvest Moon; Then Came The Last Days Of May; Cities On Flame With Rock ’N’ Roll; ME 262; Perfect Water; Lips In The Hills; Godzilla; (Don't Fear) The Reaper; Dominance And Submission; The Red And The Black
Blu-ray bonus video: Joan Crawford (previously unreleased performance); Astronomy (previously unreleased performance)
LINE-UP: Eric Bloom - vocals, guitar, keyboards; Donald ‘Buck Dharma’ Roeser - guitar, vocals; Allen Lanier - keyboards, guitar; Bobby Rondinelli - drums, percussion; Danny Miranda - bass, vocals
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In a year we’d all rather forget and another in which there’s a saturation of uninspiring music getting undeserved attention over under-the-radar talent it’s heartening to be able to see, hear and report on both younger and older generations producing what is perhaps surprising, but extremely welcome, uplifting musical moments.
80 year old Paul Harvey, a dementia sufferer who comes alive and reverts to his younger music teaching/ composing self when in front of a piano, went viral with his "Four Notes" tune and story, which has since become a BBC Philharmonic scored single and Dementia Charity donation success (see News Item further below).
Twelve year old Sophie Henderson has been similarly impacting with 'In Future Fields,' a poem she wrote when she was eleven, at her Primary School in Troon, Ayrshire.
Sophie’s poem touched so many hearts she was voted the National winner of Poppyscotland’s annual Learning Award.
The poem (inspired by John McCrae’s famous poem, 'In Flanders Fields') is a tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom in the world wars (including Sophie’s Great Grandpa).
The poem’s words of hope (that no more soldiers graves shall lie in future fields) have now been given musical life via the assistance of Ayrshire singer-songwriter Scott Nicol of Possibility Screams (an event showcase to nurture and present young musical talent).
80 year old Paul Harvey, a dementia sufferer who comes alive and reverts to his younger music teaching/ composing self when in front of a piano, went viral with his "Four Notes" tune and story, which has since become a BBC Philharmonic scored single and Dementia Charity donation success (see News Item further below).
Twelve year old Sophie Henderson has been similarly impacting with 'In Future Fields,' a poem she wrote when she was eleven, at her Primary School in Troon, Ayrshire.
Sophie’s poem touched so many hearts she was voted the National winner of Poppyscotland’s annual Learning Award.
The poem (inspired by John McCrae’s famous poem, 'In Flanders Fields') is a tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom in the world wars (including Sophie’s Great Grandpa).
The poem’s words of hope (that no more soldiers graves shall lie in future fields) have now been given musical life via the assistance of Ayrshire singer-songwriter Scott Nicol of Possibility Screams (an event showcase to nurture and present young musical talent).
'In Future Fields' was recorded at Essgee Productions Studio in Glasgow with Sophie Henderson singing lead; the song also features Gillian Foster (backing vocals), Scott Nicol (guitar) and Sam Gallagher (all other instrumentation, sound engineer, mixing).
'In Future Fields' is available now from https://music.apple.com/gb/album/1538471763?app=itunes and is being used to promote Poppy Scotland and pay tribute to Remembrance Day.
https://www.facebook.com/Poppyscotland/
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'In Future Fields' is available now from https://music.apple.com/gb/album/1538471763?app=itunes and is being used to promote Poppy Scotland and pay tribute to Remembrance Day.
https://www.facebook.com/Poppyscotland/
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Great, cute and fun tribute to times past and friends passed, Diamond Dave; nice one.
R.I.P Ed.
R.I.P Ed.
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Was talking to a friend about the saturation of uninspiring music, across all genres, that’s out there getting attention – thus bringing a tear to the eye for all the wrong reasons.
Luckily there are individuals, stories and outcomes that can still bring a tear to the eye for all the right reasons, while re-establishing one’s faith in the truly inspiring, and genuinely moving, power of music in its truest and purist form…
Luckily there are individuals, stories and outcomes that can still bring a tear to the eye for all the right reasons, while re-establishing one’s faith in the truly inspiring, and genuinely moving, power of music in its truest and purist form…
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"I'm a Woman!" loudly and proudly declare WOMAN, the female supergroup featuring four of rock musical theatre’s most powerful female voices and We Will Rock You alumni Mazz Murray, Kerry Ellis, Gina Murray and Anna-Jane Casey.
This special 2020 cover of 'I'm a Woman,' on which Brian May performs as well as producing, is released in Breast Cancer Awareness Month to support the work of two leading women’s cancer charities:
Target Ovarian Cancer and The Caron Keating Foundation, the latter being the family run cancer charity in memory of the much loved TV personality that was established by her mother Gloria Hunniford, and Caron's two brothers.
WOMAN’s 'I’m A Woman' is available as a digital download, with CD and Vinyl single versions available from http://queenonlinestore.com/Brian-May/
This special 2020 cover of 'I'm a Woman,' on which Brian May performs as well as producing, is released in Breast Cancer Awareness Month to support the work of two leading women’s cancer charities:
Target Ovarian Cancer and The Caron Keating Foundation, the latter being the family run cancer charity in memory of the much loved TV personality that was established by her mother Gloria Hunniford, and Caron's two brothers.
WOMAN’s 'I’m A Woman' is available as a digital download, with CD and Vinyl single versions available from http://queenonlinestore.com/Brian-May/
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Great to see and hear that CLEETHORPES ROCKS and CLEE FEST, in association with Solid Entertainments, have joined forces to present an open air, one day rock and blues festival next year as a BIG THANK YOU concert for the NHS and all they have done, and continue to do, in these challenging times.
The concert, which will be held on Saturday 31st July 2021, will feature The WIldhearts, Big Country, Dr Feelgood and The Brew, with more guests to be announced.
Profits from the event will be donated to local NHS Trust as part of the BIG THANK YOU campaign.
All NHS Staff will will be admitted Free with NHS id Card and ticket.
Ticket information and purchase options, here:
http://www.solidentertainments.com/rocks/nhs/tickets.html
The concert, which will be held on Saturday 31st July 2021, will feature The WIldhearts, Big Country, Dr Feelgood and The Brew, with more guests to be announced.
Profits from the event will be donated to local NHS Trust as part of the BIG THANK YOU campaign.
All NHS Staff will will be admitted Free with NHS id Card and ticket.
Ticket information and purchase options, here:
http://www.solidentertainments.com/rocks/nhs/tickets.html
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Things you never thought you'd see, hear or be writing about...
You know things are way past tipping point when even the Cosmic Pixie of Prog is pissed off and delivering political protest songs while emphatically singing the words "go screw yourself!"
You know things are way past tipping point when even the Cosmic Pixie of Prog is pissed off and delivering political protest songs while emphatically singing the words "go screw yourself!"
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Renowned British progressive act Marillion have seen The Light at the End Of The Tunnel….
With the long, dark days of Covid-19 hopefully well behind us a year hence, Marillion will shed some stage light across the venues of Britain with their 10-date Light At THe End of The Tunnel tour in November 2021.
The tour will culminate with two shows at the London Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith.
Tickets go on sale from Friday 23rd October 2020.
The Light At The End Of The Tunnel Tour dates for November 2021 are as follows:
Sunday 14th Nov - Hull City Hall
Monday 15th Nov - Edinburgh Usher Hall
Wednesday 17th Nov - Cardiff St David's Hall
Thursday 18th Nov - Manchester Bridgewater Hall
Saturday 20th Nov - Cambridge Corn Exchange
Sunday 21st Nov - Birmingham Symphony Hall
Tuesday 23rd Nov - Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Wednesday 24th Nov - Bath Forum
Friday 26th Nov - London Eventim Apollo
(PLEASE NOTE - Seated show)
Saturday 27th Nov - London Eventim Apollo
(PLEASE NOTE - Standing show)
Tickets go onsale at Friday 23rd October at 10.00am from: www.myticket.co.uk/artists/marillion
"We are extremely fortunate; we had set aside this year to make our nineteenth studio album and so we saved up a bit and we budgeted for a year on the ground, before this plague broke" says lead vocalist Steve Hogarth, who adds "as you might imagine, we’re looking forward with every sinew to getting back on the road and playing it to you. Not as much as my wife’s looking forward to getting me out of the house though...”
2020 has been a terrible year for everyone and Marillion are grateful for the continued support of their family of faithful fans, particularly the wonderful donations from the Couch Convention weekend in September which raised £31,530 for their crew who have been hard hit financially by the pandemic.
Of the success of that weekend, keyboardist Mark Kelly said: "What a weekend it was! We were totally stunned and knocked out by everyone’s involvement in everything that went on, from Steve Rothery’s late night cocktails to Pete’s Bass Masterclas, Ian Mosley’s Drum Q&A and my early morning fun run and all the music, chat and fancy dress in between!"
With the long, dark days of Covid-19 hopefully well behind us a year hence, Marillion will shed some stage light across the venues of Britain with their 10-date Light At THe End of The Tunnel tour in November 2021.
The tour will culminate with two shows at the London Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith.
Tickets go on sale from Friday 23rd October 2020.
The Light At The End Of The Tunnel Tour dates for November 2021 are as follows:
Sunday 14th Nov - Hull City Hall
Monday 15th Nov - Edinburgh Usher Hall
Wednesday 17th Nov - Cardiff St David's Hall
Thursday 18th Nov - Manchester Bridgewater Hall
Saturday 20th Nov - Cambridge Corn Exchange
Sunday 21st Nov - Birmingham Symphony Hall
Tuesday 23rd Nov - Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Wednesday 24th Nov - Bath Forum
Friday 26th Nov - London Eventim Apollo
(PLEASE NOTE - Seated show)
Saturday 27th Nov - London Eventim Apollo
(PLEASE NOTE - Standing show)
Tickets go onsale at Friday 23rd October at 10.00am from: www.myticket.co.uk/artists/marillion
"We are extremely fortunate; we had set aside this year to make our nineteenth studio album and so we saved up a bit and we budgeted for a year on the ground, before this plague broke" says lead vocalist Steve Hogarth, who adds "as you might imagine, we’re looking forward with every sinew to getting back on the road and playing it to you. Not as much as my wife’s looking forward to getting me out of the house though...”
2020 has been a terrible year for everyone and Marillion are grateful for the continued support of their family of faithful fans, particularly the wonderful donations from the Couch Convention weekend in September which raised £31,530 for their crew who have been hard hit financially by the pandemic.
Of the success of that weekend, keyboardist Mark Kelly said: "What a weekend it was! We were totally stunned and knocked out by everyone’s involvement in everything that went on, from Steve Rothery’s late night cocktails to Pete’s Bass Masterclas, Ian Mosley’s Drum Q&A and my early morning fun run and all the music, chat and fancy dress in between!"
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Having catered for lovers of a wee dram with their blended Burnt Out Wreck whisky and, for the beer drinkers, the recent availability of Burnt Out Wreck American Pale Ale, the classic guitar rock band led by Gary Moat have now completed their trio of rock and roll tipples with the announcement of something fruitier…
From Gwatkin, the award winning traditional farmhouse Cider and Perry company in Herefordshire, comes Burnt Out Wreck Cider.
Available to purchase now, BOW Cider is a 6% sweet blend of the best apples and pears grown in the county of Herefordshire; the perfect companion to party away with while Burnt Out Wreck deliver their exciting, foot stomping guitar rock via the albums Swallow and current release, This is Hell.
You can purchase Burnt Out Wreck Cider in 12x500ml bottles here: https://gwatkincider.co.uk/product/burntoutwreck/
For Burnt Out Wreck, Gary Moat, co-founder, drummer and a primary songwriter of the original Heavy Pettin, has traded the drum stool for the microphone and handed the drumming chair to beater Paul Gray.
Gary then headed to his Scottish homeland to recruit Alex Carmichael (from La Paz) on bass before heading back south of the border to recruit guitarist Miles Goodman, who confirmed he was "thrilled" to have bagged the job.
Burnt Out Wreck released their debut album Swallow in 2017; the band’s second album, This is Hell, was released in 2019.
You can purchase Swallow here: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/swallow/
This is Hell: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/burnt-out-wreck-this-is-hell-cd/
The Best of Heavy Pettin (released November 27th): https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
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From Gwatkin, the award winning traditional farmhouse Cider and Perry company in Herefordshire, comes Burnt Out Wreck Cider.
Available to purchase now, BOW Cider is a 6% sweet blend of the best apples and pears grown in the county of Herefordshire; the perfect companion to party away with while Burnt Out Wreck deliver their exciting, foot stomping guitar rock via the albums Swallow and current release, This is Hell.
You can purchase Burnt Out Wreck Cider in 12x500ml bottles here: https://gwatkincider.co.uk/product/burntoutwreck/
For Burnt Out Wreck, Gary Moat, co-founder, drummer and a primary songwriter of the original Heavy Pettin, has traded the drum stool for the microphone and handed the drumming chair to beater Paul Gray.
Gary then headed to his Scottish homeland to recruit Alex Carmichael (from La Paz) on bass before heading back south of the border to recruit guitarist Miles Goodman, who confirmed he was "thrilled" to have bagged the job.
Burnt Out Wreck released their debut album Swallow in 2017; the band’s second album, This is Hell, was released in 2019.
You can purchase Swallow here: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/swallow/
This is Hell: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/burnt-out-wreck-this-is-hell-cd/
The Best of Heavy Pettin (released November 27th): https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
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Jo Harman has just released her cover of the classic 'Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.'
Originally recorded sixty years ago by The Shirelles, the song has been covered many times, most noticeably by the song’s co-writer Carole King on her 1971 landmark album, Tapestry.
Unsurprisingly, given Jo Harman’s soulful, balladeering voice, her own version follows in the piano and vocal-steps of Carole King’s classic version, here in the accompaniment of Mark Edwards (Yamaha Grand Piano) and Terry Lewis (Telecaster Guitar).
The recording itself was captured by multi Grammy nominated/ Brit Award winner James McMillan at Quietmoney studios.
With a clear and emotive connection to the lyrics, Jo Harman’s version is as captivating as it is classy.
Originally recorded sixty years ago by The Shirelles, the song has been covered many times, most noticeably by the song’s co-writer Carole King on her 1971 landmark album, Tapestry.
Unsurprisingly, given Jo Harman’s soulful, balladeering voice, her own version follows in the piano and vocal-steps of Carole King’s classic version, here in the accompaniment of Mark Edwards (Yamaha Grand Piano) and Terry Lewis (Telecaster Guitar).
The recording itself was captured by multi Grammy nominated/ Brit Award winner James McMillan at Quietmoney studios.
With a clear and emotive connection to the lyrics, Jo Harman’s version is as captivating as it is classy.
'Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow' by Jo Harman is now available on Spotify and other streaming services.
Additionally, a special 4 track physical CD 'single' is available for purchase to Jo Harman's Access All Areas supportive fanbase by application to info@bigiam.co.uk (this special for the fans release is not available from her website shop).
"Hearing Jo Harman sing is a spiritual experience" Michael McDonald
"A voice that leaves me speechless" Huey Morgan, BBC Radio 2
"One of this country's finest talents" Rag N Bone Man
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Additionally, a special 4 track physical CD 'single' is available for purchase to Jo Harman's Access All Areas supportive fanbase by application to info@bigiam.co.uk (this special for the fans release is not available from her website shop).
"Hearing Jo Harman sing is a spiritual experience" Michael McDonald
"A voice that leaves me speechless" Huey Morgan, BBC Radio 2
"One of this country's finest talents" Rag N Bone Man
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Scottish rockers Heavy Pettin will release a definitive 14 track Best Of album on 27th November, via Burnt Out Wreckords / Cherry Red.
The songs have been selected from their trio of 80s albums that were all re-released with bonus tracks in 2019. The selection includes the charting singles 'Love Times Love,' 'In And Out of Love' and 'Rock Me.'
The cover is a previously unseen photo by David Plastik taken at the Breaking Sound festival in France in 1984. Within are other unseen photos of the band and liner notes from FabricationsHQ.
You can order the album here:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
Heavy Pettin (named after UFO's 1976 studio album) was formed in Glasgow in 1981 when guitarist Gordon Bonnar, drummer Gary Moat, bassist Brian Waugh, vocalist Steve 'Hamie' Hayman and lead guitarist Punky Mendoza joined forces to give the biggest and best rock bands of the time a serious run for their money.
The band gigged extensively before releasing their debut single, 1982's 'Roll the Dice,' on Neat Records.
This caught the attention of Polydor Records who soon extended a major-label deal to Heavy Pettin.
The band, with Queen guitarist Brian May on board as co-producer with Reinhold Mack, then recorded their 1983 debut album Lettin Loose.
Opening slots supporting the likes of Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake followed, leading to the release of the band's second studio release, 1985's Rock Ain't Dead.
The group dissolved in early 1988 with their third and final album, The Big Bang, issued the following year.
The Best Of Heavy Pettin: Track List:
In And Out of Love; Sole Survivor; Born to Burn; Northwinds; Love Times Love; Lonely People; Devil in Her Eyes; Two Hearts; China Boy; Don’t Call it Love; Rock Me; Throw a Party; Rock Ain’t Dead; Hell is Beautiful
All official Heavy Pettin releases: http://cherryred.co/HeavyPettinReissues
Also available on Burnt Out Wreckords / Cherry Red Records is This Is Hell, the new release from Gary Moat's guitar rock quintet, Burnt Out Wreck, which can be purchased here:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/burnt-out-wreck-this-is-hell-cd/
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The songs have been selected from their trio of 80s albums that were all re-released with bonus tracks in 2019. The selection includes the charting singles 'Love Times Love,' 'In And Out of Love' and 'Rock Me.'
The cover is a previously unseen photo by David Plastik taken at the Breaking Sound festival in France in 1984. Within are other unseen photos of the band and liner notes from FabricationsHQ.
You can order the album here:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/heavy-pettin-best-of/
Heavy Pettin (named after UFO's 1976 studio album) was formed in Glasgow in 1981 when guitarist Gordon Bonnar, drummer Gary Moat, bassist Brian Waugh, vocalist Steve 'Hamie' Hayman and lead guitarist Punky Mendoza joined forces to give the biggest and best rock bands of the time a serious run for their money.
The band gigged extensively before releasing their debut single, 1982's 'Roll the Dice,' on Neat Records.
This caught the attention of Polydor Records who soon extended a major-label deal to Heavy Pettin.
The band, with Queen guitarist Brian May on board as co-producer with Reinhold Mack, then recorded their 1983 debut album Lettin Loose.
Opening slots supporting the likes of Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake followed, leading to the release of the band's second studio release, 1985's Rock Ain't Dead.
The group dissolved in early 1988 with their third and final album, The Big Bang, issued the following year.
The Best Of Heavy Pettin: Track List:
In And Out of Love; Sole Survivor; Born to Burn; Northwinds; Love Times Love; Lonely People; Devil in Her Eyes; Two Hearts; China Boy; Don’t Call it Love; Rock Me; Throw a Party; Rock Ain’t Dead; Hell is Beautiful
All official Heavy Pettin releases: http://cherryred.co/HeavyPettinReissues
Also available on Burnt Out Wreckords / Cherry Red Records is This Is Hell, the new release from Gary Moat's guitar rock quintet, Burnt Out Wreck, which can be purchased here:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/burnt-out-wreck-this-is-hell-cd/
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Swedish alt-rockers Reach have just released a new single entitled 'Young Again;' the song will feature on the band’s upcoming third album.
Following previous single Motherland, a quirky, alt-rock meets cabaret pop number, 'Young Again' showcases the band's ability to merge black humour or darker tales with playful, melodic pop/ rock.
In short, another great example of the band's experimental yet intriguing and effective song writing style.
Of the new single singer-guitarist-songwriter Ludvig Turner says "This song is based on a murderer whose life caught up to him and he wishes to turn back time to when he was a kid. You see these kinds of stories in TV shows where they go into the heads of murderers and criminals.
They are really popular and I find it interesting how this desire to witness chaos lies deep within us."
The slightly macabre video was created by the band's well established visual partner Johan Lundsten, who commented that "Reach has a history of utilizing powerful imagery, so we definitely wanted to push the envelope when telling the story in a visually intriguing way.
I think we´ve been able to visualize the message in a dark way but also with a glimmer of hope and warmth."
Following previous single Motherland, a quirky, alt-rock meets cabaret pop number, 'Young Again' showcases the band's ability to merge black humour or darker tales with playful, melodic pop/ rock.
In short, another great example of the band's experimental yet intriguing and effective song writing style.
Of the new single singer-guitarist-songwriter Ludvig Turner says "This song is based on a murderer whose life caught up to him and he wishes to turn back time to when he was a kid. You see these kinds of stories in TV shows where they go into the heads of murderers and criminals.
They are really popular and I find it interesting how this desire to witness chaos lies deep within us."
The slightly macabre video was created by the band's well established visual partner Johan Lundsten, who commented that "Reach has a history of utilizing powerful imagery, so we definitely wanted to push the envelope when telling the story in a visually intriguing way.
I think we´ve been able to visualize the message in a dark way but also with a glimmer of hope and warmth."
Reach, founded in 2012, are a power trio consisting of Ludvig Turner, drummer Marcus Johansson and bassist Soufian Ma'Aoui.
During their eight years as a band they have released two critically praised albums and met audiences from many stages around Europe.
Defined by strong melodies and original song writing, Reach are keen to constantly be under development and chasing a sound that is exciting and unique.
Additionally, the band members mutual trust gives the trio freedom to offer explosive live shows with a lot of free improvisation.
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During their eight years as a band they have released two critically praised albums and met audiences from many stages around Europe.
Defined by strong melodies and original song writing, Reach are keen to constantly be under development and chasing a sound that is exciting and unique.
Additionally, the band members mutual trust gives the trio freedom to offer explosive live shows with a lot of free improvisation.
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70s Australian rock band Fraternity will forever be associated with their lead singer, Bon Scott, who would go on to enjoy worldwide fame as the frontman of AC/DC until his death in 1980.
However Bon Scott’s tenure with Fraternity, and the band’s recorded output, has been poorly documented on the reissue market – until now.
Half a century on the forthcoming anthology Seasons of Change - The Complete Recordings 1970-1974 seeks to amend the oversight on the overlooked Fraternity & pre AC/DC Bon Scott.
Curated by Victor Marshall in conjunction with surviving band members (Bruce Howe, John Freeman, Sam See, John Bisset, Uncle John Eyers), the Estate of Mick Jurd and original band manager Hamish Henry, the 3CD set offers the complete recorded output of Fraternity.
The collection includes the albums Livestock (1971) & Flaming Galah (1972), originally issued on Sweet Peach and RCA respectively and utilising the original master tapes and best possible remastering sources.
All relevant non-albums singles (A’s and B’s) and EP tracks are also included.
Bonus tracks feature Fraternity backing The Valentines’ Vince Lovegrove and their victory at the National Battle Of The Sounds competition where they claimed the title of Australia’s No. 1 band.
Additionally, research by Victor Marshall for his upcoming Fraternity biography uncovered the long-lost Hamish Henry cache of session tapes, which have been curated into Fraternity’s “third” album Second Chance.
This third set also includes live tracks recorded at Pt Lincoln, South Australia (as part of the band’s historic Country Arts Tour) and unheard songs including vocals and song writing contributions from Bon Scott.
Artist Vytas Serelis, designer of the Flaming Galah cover, returns with original cover artwork for Second Chance.
Musically, Fraternity ran the gamut of styles in vogue on the rock scene at the dawn of the 1970s, from proto-heavy metal to country and soft rock, progressive music and a nod here and there to the earlier psychedelic boom.
Seasons of Change - The Complete Recordings 1970-1974 will be released on Cherry Red Records on 22nd January 2021
www.fraternityofficial.com https://www.facebook.com/officialfraternity
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However Bon Scott’s tenure with Fraternity, and the band’s recorded output, has been poorly documented on the reissue market – until now.
Half a century on the forthcoming anthology Seasons of Change - The Complete Recordings 1970-1974 seeks to amend the oversight on the overlooked Fraternity & pre AC/DC Bon Scott.
Curated by Victor Marshall in conjunction with surviving band members (Bruce Howe, John Freeman, Sam See, John Bisset, Uncle John Eyers), the Estate of Mick Jurd and original band manager Hamish Henry, the 3CD set offers the complete recorded output of Fraternity.
The collection includes the albums Livestock (1971) & Flaming Galah (1972), originally issued on Sweet Peach and RCA respectively and utilising the original master tapes and best possible remastering sources.
All relevant non-albums singles (A’s and B’s) and EP tracks are also included.
Bonus tracks feature Fraternity backing The Valentines’ Vince Lovegrove and their victory at the National Battle Of The Sounds competition where they claimed the title of Australia’s No. 1 band.
Additionally, research by Victor Marshall for his upcoming Fraternity biography uncovered the long-lost Hamish Henry cache of session tapes, which have been curated into Fraternity’s “third” album Second Chance.
This third set also includes live tracks recorded at Pt Lincoln, South Australia (as part of the band’s historic Country Arts Tour) and unheard songs including vocals and song writing contributions from Bon Scott.
Artist Vytas Serelis, designer of the Flaming Galah cover, returns with original cover artwork for Second Chance.
Musically, Fraternity ran the gamut of styles in vogue on the rock scene at the dawn of the 1970s, from proto-heavy metal to country and soft rock, progressive music and a nod here and there to the earlier psychedelic boom.
Seasons of Change - The Complete Recordings 1970-1974 will be released on Cherry Red Records on 22nd January 2021
www.fraternityofficial.com https://www.facebook.com/officialfraternity
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The legendary Vanilla Fudge, in celebration of a new deal with Golden Robot Records, have just released a newly remastered version of their cover of Led Zeppelin’s 'Immigrant Song.'
The song, which originally appeared on the band’s Zeppelin covers album Out Through the In Door in 2007, will feature on a fully remastered reissue (entitled Vanilla Zeppelin) on Golden Robot Records.
"Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin is one of the monster tracks of all time. How do you top that? Well, you can't but we decided to just have fun with it!
I came up with this On Green Dolphin Street kinda chord progression as the intro on the synth with a heavy-duty brass sound that worked pretty well. The guys fell into it right quick and it rocks the house. Carmine did a great job with the drum track and Tim and Vince killed it.
I did the vocals in Florida and sent it back to Carmine in Los Angeles and he mixed it. Hope you dig it!"
– Mark Stein
The song, which originally appeared on the band’s Zeppelin covers album Out Through the In Door in 2007, will feature on a fully remastered reissue (entitled Vanilla Zeppelin) on Golden Robot Records.
"Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin is one of the monster tracks of all time. How do you top that? Well, you can't but we decided to just have fun with it!
I came up with this On Green Dolphin Street kinda chord progression as the intro on the synth with a heavy-duty brass sound that worked pretty well. The guys fell into it right quick and it rocks the house. Carmine did a great job with the drum track and Tim and Vince killed it.
I did the vocals in Florida and sent it back to Carmine in Los Angeles and he mixed it. Hope you dig it!"
– Mark Stein
The classic Zeppelin cover is also a precursor nod to a new covers album the band will release in 2021, albeit covering a very different band/ genre.
Vanilla Fudge will deliver The Supreme Vanilla Fudge next year, a re-working, Fudge style of ten songs form the legendary The Supremes.
The album will feature all four original members Mark Stein, Carmine Appice, Vinnie Martel and Tim Bogert, who no longer tours but will appear on a few tracks.
The line-up/ album contributions are completed by the band’s touring bassist Pete Bremy.
Vanilla Fudge was one of the first American groups to infuse psychedelia into heavy rock sound to create “psychedelic symphonic rock.”
At first the band did not record original material, becoming best known for their dramatic heavy, slowed-down arrangements of contemporary pop songs which they developed into works of epic proportion – their cover of The Supremes 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On' became the band’s first single.
A huge hit, it set the band up for their four year run of success before initial disbandment and subsequent reformations.
The Vanilla Fudge version of 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On' also appeared in the series finale of the television show The Sopranos, at the conclusion of Episode 1 of Season 7 of Mad Men, the film War Dogs, the videogame Mafia III and recent Quentin Tarantino movie Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
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Vanilla Fudge will deliver The Supreme Vanilla Fudge next year, a re-working, Fudge style of ten songs form the legendary The Supremes.
The album will feature all four original members Mark Stein, Carmine Appice, Vinnie Martel and Tim Bogert, who no longer tours but will appear on a few tracks.
The line-up/ album contributions are completed by the band’s touring bassist Pete Bremy.
Vanilla Fudge was one of the first American groups to infuse psychedelia into heavy rock sound to create “psychedelic symphonic rock.”
At first the band did not record original material, becoming best known for their dramatic heavy, slowed-down arrangements of contemporary pop songs which they developed into works of epic proportion – their cover of The Supremes 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On' became the band’s first single.
A huge hit, it set the band up for their four year run of success before initial disbandment and subsequent reformations.
The Vanilla Fudge version of 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On' also appeared in the series finale of the television show The Sopranos, at the conclusion of Episode 1 of Season 7 of Mad Men, the film War Dogs, the videogame Mafia III and recent Quentin Tarantino movie Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
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Rebecca Downes, whose recent album More Sinner Than Saint was released in 2019 to popular acclaim (you can read FabricationsHQ's Feature Review by clicking here), has released a new single from the album – with a vocal twist…
'Wave Them Goodbye' features Alan Nimmo of King King on duet vocals.
A great slice of Memphis affected rock 'n' blues featuring some nifty slide guitar from Steve Birkett and honky-tonk piano sprinkles from Rick Benton of Magnum, 'Wave Them Goodbye' was written by Rebecca Downes and Birkett (who also features on backing vocals).
'Wave Them Goodbye' features Alan Nimmo of King King on duet vocals.
A great slice of Memphis affected rock 'n' blues featuring some nifty slide guitar from Steve Birkett and honky-tonk piano sprinkles from Rick Benton of Magnum, 'Wave Them Goodbye' was written by Rebecca Downes and Birkett (who also features on backing vocals).
"Alan and I are good friends and it was a privilege to have him do the guitar solo for previous single 'If I Go To Sleep' (play-listed by Planet Rock Radio). I love his voice and with' Wave Them Goodbye' being a genuine duet, I was keen to do a version with him singing the other part; we hope it will be popular with both our fans and King King’s, as well as rock fans more widely.
We couldn’t get together, so Alan recorded his vocal separately and Chris Childs – the bass player of Thunder and original mixer of the song – mixed it into the track." - Rebecca Downes
In common with other artists, Rebecca Downes touring plans are currently on hold, but she and Steve Birkett will be doing a streamed gig via the award-winning Tuesday Night Music Club on 20th October 2020.
The pair have also been writing new material as well as putting together a collection of stripped back versions of their most popular songs for an album to be released later in 2020.
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We couldn’t get together, so Alan recorded his vocal separately and Chris Childs – the bass player of Thunder and original mixer of the song – mixed it into the track." - Rebecca Downes
In common with other artists, Rebecca Downes touring plans are currently on hold, but she and Steve Birkett will be doing a streamed gig via the award-winning Tuesday Night Music Club on 20th October 2020.
The pair have also been writing new material as well as putting together a collection of stripped back versions of their most popular songs for an album to be released later in 2020.
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Independent blues rock guitarist, singer & songwriter Adam Sweet has just released his second studio album Sink or Swim.
The new album, featuring lead-off single 'Trouble,' marks Adam Sweet’s evolution into a fully-fledged blues rock artist, cementing his own unique blend of blue-eyed blues and soulful southern rock.
With honest tales of loss, longing, hope and strength in the face of adversity Sink or Swim reflects the struggles we all face in these most uncertain and fragile times...
The new album, featuring lead-off single 'Trouble,' marks Adam Sweet’s evolution into a fully-fledged blues rock artist, cementing his own unique blend of blue-eyed blues and soulful southern rock.
With honest tales of loss, longing, hope and strength in the face of adversity Sink or Swim reflects the struggles we all face in these most uncertain and fragile times...
Adam Sweet’s acclaimed debut album Small Town Thinking, recorded both in Devon and Nashville, was released in 2014 and marked the start of his long-standing co-writing partnership with award winning songwriter Steve Black.
2017’s 5-track EP Take Your Time was a stripped back acoustic offering that captured the essence of Adam Sweet’s one-man shows (tracks from this release featured heavily on BBC Introducing and received several accolades).
Sink or Swim showcases a fresh sound for Adam Sweet, a development of working closely with new band members Ian Jennings on bass (Jeff Beck, Robert Plant, Ronnie Wood, Mick Fleetwood) and Garry Kroll on drums (Mark Ronson, Joss Stone, Sandi Thom).
Recorded with producer Josiah J Manning (Kris Barras Band) at Momentum Studios, Plymouth, the album serves up richly detailed songs crafted by Sweet and co-writer Steve Black, from brooding ballads to rollicking, rootsy rock; the perfect combination of classic rock, blues and Americana.
"For fans of good 'n' steady raw blues-rock with great guitar tone; the rhythm section was tracked live in the studio, my favourite way to do it where possible. All the vibes!"
- Josiah J Manning (producer)
"A very talented young man who's not quite getting the credit he deserves at the moment. He's right up there with Connor Selby and a few others. I like it!"
- Harry Simpson (Still Got the Blues Radio Show/ Saltburn Blues Club)
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2017’s 5-track EP Take Your Time was a stripped back acoustic offering that captured the essence of Adam Sweet’s one-man shows (tracks from this release featured heavily on BBC Introducing and received several accolades).
Sink or Swim showcases a fresh sound for Adam Sweet, a development of working closely with new band members Ian Jennings on bass (Jeff Beck, Robert Plant, Ronnie Wood, Mick Fleetwood) and Garry Kroll on drums (Mark Ronson, Joss Stone, Sandi Thom).
Recorded with producer Josiah J Manning (Kris Barras Band) at Momentum Studios, Plymouth, the album serves up richly detailed songs crafted by Sweet and co-writer Steve Black, from brooding ballads to rollicking, rootsy rock; the perfect combination of classic rock, blues and Americana.
"For fans of good 'n' steady raw blues-rock with great guitar tone; the rhythm section was tracked live in the studio, my favourite way to do it where possible. All the vibes!"
- Josiah J Manning (producer)
"A very talented young man who's not quite getting the credit he deserves at the moment. He's right up there with Connor Selby and a few others. I like it!"
- Harry Simpson (Still Got the Blues Radio Show/ Saltburn Blues Club)
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Swedish hard rock act Eclipse have just delivered their first ever official live release, Viva La VicTOURia, which was recorded at the Trädgårn venue in Gothenburg on the 21st December 2019 during a tour in support of their successful, and current, studio album Paradigm.
"We've talked about properly documenting a live show for ages" says vocalist / guitarist Erik Mårtensson, continuing: "Well, if anything good came out of the pandemic that brought touring to a halt, this is it.
Thanks to this record, Viva La VicTOURia will live forever, although it ended up being our shortest tour!"
"Fans have asked us for a live album and video for a long time now. Well, here it is. Enjoy!" adds guitarist Magnus Henriksson.
"We've talked about properly documenting a live show for ages" says vocalist / guitarist Erik Mårtensson, continuing: "Well, if anything good came out of the pandemic that brought touring to a halt, this is it.
Thanks to this record, Viva La VicTOURia will live forever, although it ended up being our shortest tour!"
"Fans have asked us for a live album and video for a long time now. Well, here it is. Enjoy!" adds guitarist Magnus Henriksson.
Along with the album, bonus material on the CD and limited edition 3xLP formats include the studio track 'Driving One Of Your Cars' (a Lisa Miskovsky cover), acoustic versions of 'The Downfall of Eden' and 'When The Winter Ends' and three live tracks from the band's Live from the Quarantine pay-per-view special, recorded at Stockholm’s Studio Grondahl in April of this year.
The 3xLP version, which contains a red, white and blue disc, also includes exclusive to the vinyl bonus Quarantine tracks 'Hurt' and 'Mary Leigh.'
Bonus footage on the DVD and Blu-ray includes interviews with the band around the creation of the Paradigm album and Viva La VicTOURia, additional footage from the Paradigm Tour and further interviews charting the development of Eclipse, from their inception to the present.
Viva La VicTOURia serves as a fitting document of an extremely successful, yet simultaneously strange phase, in the career of Eclipse.
Viva La VicTOURia – CD track listing:
CD1
Viva La Victoria; Mary Leigh; Blood Wants Blood; The Storm; Vertigo; Jaded; Shelter Me; United; The Downfall Of Eden; When The Winter Ends; Take Me Home; Battlegrounds
CD2
Black Rain; Blood Enemies; Stand On Your Feet; Runaways; I Don't Wanna Say I'm Sorry; Never Look Back; Driving One Of Your Cars (Studio Version); The Downfall Of Eden (Acoustic Version); When The Winter Ends (Acoustic Version) ;Battlegrounds (Quarantine Live); Driving One Of Your Cars (Quarantine Live); Delirious (Quarantine Live)
LP Only bonus tracks:
Mary Leigh (Quarantine Live); Hurt (Quarantine Live)
ECLIPSE
Erik Mårtensson - vocals, guitar; Magnus Henriksson – guitars; Philip Crusner – drums; Victor Crusner – bass
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The 3xLP version, which contains a red, white and blue disc, also includes exclusive to the vinyl bonus Quarantine tracks 'Hurt' and 'Mary Leigh.'
Bonus footage on the DVD and Blu-ray includes interviews with the band around the creation of the Paradigm album and Viva La VicTOURia, additional footage from the Paradigm Tour and further interviews charting the development of Eclipse, from their inception to the present.
Viva La VicTOURia serves as a fitting document of an extremely successful, yet simultaneously strange phase, in the career of Eclipse.
Viva La VicTOURia – CD track listing:
CD1
Viva La Victoria; Mary Leigh; Blood Wants Blood; The Storm; Vertigo; Jaded; Shelter Me; United; The Downfall Of Eden; When The Winter Ends; Take Me Home; Battlegrounds
CD2
Black Rain; Blood Enemies; Stand On Your Feet; Runaways; I Don't Wanna Say I'm Sorry; Never Look Back; Driving One Of Your Cars (Studio Version); The Downfall Of Eden (Acoustic Version); When The Winter Ends (Acoustic Version) ;Battlegrounds (Quarantine Live); Driving One Of Your Cars (Quarantine Live); Delirious (Quarantine Live)
LP Only bonus tracks:
Mary Leigh (Quarantine Live); Hurt (Quarantine Live)
ECLIPSE
Erik Mårtensson - vocals, guitar; Magnus Henriksson – guitars; Philip Crusner – drums; Victor Crusner – bass
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Warsaw based Polish contemporary rock band Chemia have just released a brand-new single, 'Modern Times,' co-written and produced by multi-award-winning producer (Thunder, Rod Stewart, The Almighty), guitarist and songwriter Andy Taylor, formerly of Duran Duran and The Power Station.
The single, a muscly slice of slow-beat, bass rippling southern influenced contemporary rock, was recorded at London’s Baltic Studios this time last year. That led, in turn, to the band heading straight back into the studio to record an album’s worth of material with Andy Taylor.
The album, Something To Believe In, is set for release later this year.
The single, a muscly slice of slow-beat, bass rippling southern influenced contemporary rock, was recorded at London’s Baltic Studios this time last year. That led, in turn, to the band heading straight back into the studio to record an album’s worth of material with Andy Taylor.
The album, Something To Believe In, is set for release later this year.
On working with Andy Taylor, Chemia guitarist Wojtek "W" Balczun says “it was a fantastic adventure and a great honor for us. We loved his work with both Duran Duran and The Power Station as well as his solo albums, especially Thunder. So to have him co-write and produce our new album was an amazing experience and a dream come true. His attention to detail is second to none and we all learned so much from working with him. We cannot wait for everyone to hear it."
Chemia frontman Lukasz “Luke” Drapala adds "Last year was amazing for us. We ended the year touring mainland Europe with Hanoi Rocks front man Michael Monroe and his all-star band, as well as doing a stadium tour of the Ukraine with Antytila. To ice the cake we cut our best album to date with Andy Taylor.
We also got to play a very special show with Andy, and the guys from Reef, in Milton Keynes, which was great fun!"
'Modern Times' is released on DCM Records via Absolute Label Services UK; it's available to buy and stream on all digital platforms at https://slinky.to/ModernTimes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chemiasound/
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Chemia frontman Lukasz “Luke” Drapala adds "Last year was amazing for us. We ended the year touring mainland Europe with Hanoi Rocks front man Michael Monroe and his all-star band, as well as doing a stadium tour of the Ukraine with Antytila. To ice the cake we cut our best album to date with Andy Taylor.
We also got to play a very special show with Andy, and the guys from Reef, in Milton Keynes, which was great fun!"
'Modern Times' is released on DCM Records via Absolute Label Services UK; it's available to buy and stream on all digital platforms at https://slinky.to/ModernTimes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chemiasound/
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Multi-disciplined entertainer Jesse Smith (rock singer, songwriter, musician, podcaster) has just released a clever and quirky video to accompany her brand new single 'Last Night On Earth.'
The song features Paul Cuddeford (Ian Hunter, Steve Harley, Lisa Ronson, Tom Jones to name but four) on much of the instrumentation and Mott the Hoople alumni member Morgan Fisher on keyboards.
The song features Paul Cuddeford (Ian Hunter, Steve Harley, Lisa Ronson, Tom Jones to name but four) on much of the instrumentation and Mott the Hoople alumni member Morgan Fisher on keyboards.
Jesse Smith has been the voice of dozens of projects live and in the studio including Romances, The Classic Rock Show, Gutterdämmerung, Queen Symphonic, Thriller Live! Magic at The Movies, Boot Led Zeppelin and many more.
Such projects have allowed the multi-talented Jesse Smith to perform all over the world and in iconic venues suich as the Royal Albert Hall, The London Palladium and The Olympic Stadium in Munich.
'Last Night On Earth' is out now via Maniac Squat Records.
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Such projects have allowed the multi-talented Jesse Smith to perform all over the world and in iconic venues suich as the Royal Albert Hall, The London Palladium and The Olympic Stadium in Munich.
'Last Night On Earth' is out now via Maniac Squat Records.
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Emerging Glasgow based singer-songwriter-pianist kate. e. lake has just released her debut EP, Roam.
Featuring lead-off single 'Neon Lights' (inspired by travel through cities that are not your home and that oft-encountered feeling of being outside that neon life) and three other songs – the haunting 'Sparks,' the delicate Sleep and subtle atmospheres of 'Threads' – Roam points to the musician’s classical background yet set within contemporary soundwashes.
Such a piano based sound and drifting, delicate vocal harmonies conjure up images of another Kate, but beyond echoes of Miss Bush are a wide range of influences from Danish singer-songwriter Agnes Obel and German classical/electronic composer Nils Frahm to British folk band Lau and Debussy.
Or, in the words of kate. e. lake "I wanted to make music that balances something ethereal with a sense of vitality or drive."
Featuring lead-off single 'Neon Lights' (inspired by travel through cities that are not your home and that oft-encountered feeling of being outside that neon life) and three other songs – the haunting 'Sparks,' the delicate Sleep and subtle atmospheres of 'Threads' – Roam points to the musician’s classical background yet set within contemporary soundwashes.
Such a piano based sound and drifting, delicate vocal harmonies conjure up images of another Kate, but beyond echoes of Miss Bush are a wide range of influences from Danish singer-songwriter Agnes Obel and German classical/electronic composer Nils Frahm to British folk band Lau and Debussy.
Or, in the words of kate. e. lake "I wanted to make music that balances something ethereal with a sense of vitality or drive."
kate. e. lake studied classical piano at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the Royal Irish Academy of Music before working on her Masters degree in Paris.
Vocally, kate. e. lake fell in love with singing folk songs at parties and has previously sung jazz standards.
She then played in a friend’s band before deciding to write her own material and now presents her first solo project, Roam.
Roam is available digitally on Spotify, iTunes, Soundcloud Google Play and Amazon.
Roam EP – kate. e. lake
Recorded with Gus Stirrat at Solas Sounds in Glasgow.
All vocals, piano and synths by Kate e Lake
www.kateelake.com
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Vocally, kate. e. lake fell in love with singing folk songs at parties and has previously sung jazz standards.
She then played in a friend’s band before deciding to write her own material and now presents her first solo project, Roam.
Roam is available digitally on Spotify, iTunes, Soundcloud Google Play and Amazon.
Roam EP – kate. e. lake
Recorded with Gus Stirrat at Solas Sounds in Glasgow.
All vocals, piano and synths by Kate e Lake
www.kateelake.com
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US band The Bloody Nerve (Laurie Ann – lead vocals, Stacey Blood – guitars, vocals) have, without question, upped their own powerful ante if new single-video 'A Million Arms' is any indication of the duo’s sonic intent.
The song is the first of a number of single+video releases that will follow on episodically, track by track (like a Netflix series in musical form); the releases will precede, and in effect present, their forthcoming concept album, All Blood, No Treasure.
The first installment of All Blood, No Treasure packs quite the sonic and visual punch, as can be seen and heard on the video for 'A Million Arms' (get ready to sonically rumble)...
The song is the first of a number of single+video releases that will follow on episodically, track by track (like a Netflix series in musical form); the releases will precede, and in effect present, their forthcoming concept album, All Blood, No Treasure.
The first installment of All Blood, No Treasure packs quite the sonic and visual punch, as can be seen and heard on the video for 'A Million Arms' (get ready to sonically rumble)...
" 'A Million Arms' starts All Blood, No Treasure with no backstory, because there is no backstory - just craziness" states Stacey Blood, continuing: That’s all you get: Just dropped right in the middle of craziness, and don’t know why you’re there and you can’t get yourself oriented because the rules and decrees are irrational and contradictory. So, what now..?”
What now indeed. That won’t be revealed until the second musical chapter of All Blood, No Treasure from The Bloody Nerve makes it appearance…
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What now indeed. That won’t be revealed until the second musical chapter of All Blood, No Treasure from The Bloody Nerve makes it appearance…
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Quint Starkie, the Swedish based British singer-songwriter-guitarist (and member of Francis Dunnery’s It Bites), has released a third single from his forthcoming solo album.
Endless Summer, "a simple song about summer romance," follows on the melodic pop with harmonies heels of atmospheric pop-groove number 'Gotta Give it Up' (featuring Dorie Jackson on harmony & backing vocals) and 'Mr Maxwell : The Car Song,' a fun, upbeat tune written about "a Sunday drive in the country teaching my son about life signposts" (Maxwell is the name of Quint Starkie's son).
The as yet unnamed album will be the follow-up to the beautifully crafted Ghost in My Heart, which was first released in 2016 (followed by an all-digital formats re-release in 2017).
Written and produced by Quint Starkie, 'Endless Summer' features Jule Wiegand (backing/ harmony vocals), Mats Byström (Keys), Per Hansson (bass) and Kjell Gustavsson (drums).
Endless Summer, "a simple song about summer romance," follows on the melodic pop with harmonies heels of atmospheric pop-groove number 'Gotta Give it Up' (featuring Dorie Jackson on harmony & backing vocals) and 'Mr Maxwell : The Car Song,' a fun, upbeat tune written about "a Sunday drive in the country teaching my son about life signposts" (Maxwell is the name of Quint Starkie's son).
The as yet unnamed album will be the follow-up to the beautifully crafted Ghost in My Heart, which was first released in 2016 (followed by an all-digital formats re-release in 2017).
Written and produced by Quint Starkie, 'Endless Summer' features Jule Wiegand (backing/ harmony vocals), Mats Byström (Keys), Per Hansson (bass) and Kjell Gustavsson (drums).
Quint Starkie is a solo artist and a member of Francis Dunnery’s It Bites.
He has written songs for Alcazar, Lambretta, Sophie Zelmani, Shakaya, Hartmut Englar, Anna Sahlene, Amei Chang, Martin Stenmarck as well a song on the movie soundtrack My Best Friend’s Wedding starring Julia Roberts.
An accomplished guitarist, he has performed or recorded with The Supremes, Meja, Jill Johnsson, Tommy Nilsson, Bosson, Ebbot, Björn Skifs, Harpo and many more established artists.
His debut album Ghost in My Heart was FabricationsHQ’s singer-songwriter album of the Year in 2017 and had the likes of the aforementioned Francis Dunnery waxing lyrical about it.
While Ghost in My Heart was a poignant yet upbeat semi-autobiographical reminisce that musically took a country styled approach, the new album, as confirmed by Quint Starkie, "reflects more of my West Coast leanings as a guitarist and is more pop than country this time around."
Quint Starkie website: http://www.quintstarkie.net/
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He has written songs for Alcazar, Lambretta, Sophie Zelmani, Shakaya, Hartmut Englar, Anna Sahlene, Amei Chang, Martin Stenmarck as well a song on the movie soundtrack My Best Friend’s Wedding starring Julia Roberts.
An accomplished guitarist, he has performed or recorded with The Supremes, Meja, Jill Johnsson, Tommy Nilsson, Bosson, Ebbot, Björn Skifs, Harpo and many more established artists.
His debut album Ghost in My Heart was FabricationsHQ’s singer-songwriter album of the Year in 2017 and had the likes of the aforementioned Francis Dunnery waxing lyrical about it.
While Ghost in My Heart was a poignant yet upbeat semi-autobiographical reminisce that musically took a country styled approach, the new album, as confirmed by Quint Starkie, "reflects more of my West Coast leanings as a guitarist and is more pop than country this time around."
Quint Starkie website: http://www.quintstarkie.net/
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The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival in Colne, one of countless Covid-19 event casualties in 2020, is set to return in 2021.
All being well, tickets will be available to purchase online from Friday 10th July 2020, at 10am.
Making tickets available while the UK is still in partial lockdown/ attempting a careful recovery from the pandemic symbolises the positivity surrounding what has become a genuinelly prestigious event.
Councillor Mary Thomas, Chairman of Colne Town Council (who have organised and managed the festival since 2017) explains further:
"The event, in many ways, is the jewel in the crown of, not only Colne's event calendar, but also of the UK Blues Festival calendar. The festival attracts thousands of people to Colne each August, bringing the streets and venues alive with music and good times.
Colne Town Council were heartbroken to cancel the 2020 festival but it was the sensible and responsible decision to make. Putting the tickets on sale next month will hopefully add to the list of things which people can look forward to now that Covid-19 restrictions are beginning to lift."
All being well, tickets will be available to purchase online from Friday 10th July 2020, at 10am.
Making tickets available while the UK is still in partial lockdown/ attempting a careful recovery from the pandemic symbolises the positivity surrounding what has become a genuinelly prestigious event.
Councillor Mary Thomas, Chairman of Colne Town Council (who have organised and managed the festival since 2017) explains further:
"The event, in many ways, is the jewel in the crown of, not only Colne's event calendar, but also of the UK Blues Festival calendar. The festival attracts thousands of people to Colne each August, bringing the streets and venues alive with music and good times.
Colne Town Council were heartbroken to cancel the 2020 festival but it was the sensible and responsible decision to make. Putting the tickets on sale next month will hopefully add to the list of things which people can look forward to now that Covid-19 restrictions are beginning to lift."
Additional good news comes by way of confirmation that the majority of artists and bands booked to play the 2020 festival (including headliners Band Of Friends, Davy Knowles, Kyla Brox, Layla Zoe, Mike Farris & His Band, Xander & The Peace Pirates) will play the 2021 event.
As things currently stand, all traders and venues will also carry their contracts over until next year.
Having won the much sought-after UKBlues Federation award for the Best Blues Based Festival 2019, the festival will be looking to go from strength-to-strength in 2021, but it should be noted, and appreciated, that the financial investment for an event of this size is considerable - much of the event remains free to enjoy, with over 15 stages of free music, plus street entertainment, and more.
With this in mind, the organisers have created a donation section on the festival website.
If any festival goer, music fan or supporter of live music can help in any way, it would be greatly appreciated, as Naomi Crewe, Town Clerk explains:
"We love that much of the Blues Festival remains free. The ticketed venues tend to 'look after themselves' in terms of finances, so we are looking at a number of ways to help fund the free parts of the festival, without losing any of the atmosphere and creativity which is produced over the weekend of the event.
With around 20,000 visitors attending the event, a simple donation of £2 would make a huge difference.
We understand these are challenging times for many, so of course there is no obligation."
You can donate to the festival here: https://www.bluesfestival.co.uk/donate/
The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival, 27th-29th August Bank Holiday 2021
"3 Days. 1 Great Festival."
Tickets available on-line from 20th July at: https://www.bluesfestival.co.uk/tickets/
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As things currently stand, all traders and venues will also carry their contracts over until next year.
Having won the much sought-after UKBlues Federation award for the Best Blues Based Festival 2019, the festival will be looking to go from strength-to-strength in 2021, but it should be noted, and appreciated, that the financial investment for an event of this size is considerable - much of the event remains free to enjoy, with over 15 stages of free music, plus street entertainment, and more.
With this in mind, the organisers have created a donation section on the festival website.
If any festival goer, music fan or supporter of live music can help in any way, it would be greatly appreciated, as Naomi Crewe, Town Clerk explains:
"We love that much of the Blues Festival remains free. The ticketed venues tend to 'look after themselves' in terms of finances, so we are looking at a number of ways to help fund the free parts of the festival, without losing any of the atmosphere and creativity which is produced over the weekend of the event.
With around 20,000 visitors attending the event, a simple donation of £2 would make a huge difference.
We understand these are challenging times for many, so of course there is no obligation."
You can donate to the festival here: https://www.bluesfestival.co.uk/donate/
The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival, 27th-29th August Bank Holiday 2021
"3 Days. 1 Great Festival."
Tickets available on-line from 20th July at: https://www.bluesfestival.co.uk/tickets/
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Vocalist Chez Kane, part of the three sisters' fronted Welsh rock septet Kane'd, has signed to Frontiers Records as a solo artist on a multi-album deal.
The singer came to the attention of Frontiers via existing label signing Danny Rexon (frontman of Crazy Lixx), who was tasked with scouting for, and subsequently producing, exciting new talent.
Demos recorded by the two immediately caught the ear of the label.
Says Chez Kane: "I feel so excited to have been asked to collaborate with Danny for a solo album. The second I heard the music, I instantly knew it was for me and I’m thrilled at the opportunity to launch my solo career this way. I am also so humbled to have Frontiers on board. This is going to be killer and I can’t wait!"
"There are tons of bands in the melodic rock genre" continues Danny Rexon "but I feel like we’re missing that great female solo artist singing hard rock. A kind of Lee Aaron, Lita Ford, or Robin Beck for the new decade. Having found Chez and discovering the potential in her voice, I have great faith in this endeavour.
I’ve written and arranged every song on the record, so it’s bound to have my signature style to it, however this album will be more retro radio friendly, more keyboard oriented and, of course, the fact that it’s a powerful female voice singing the songs will give it a whole other dimension.
If you are a fan of Lee Aaron, Vixen, Saraya, Chrissy Steele, Lita Ford and similar artists and feel like the genre is missing out on this vital component, you’re going to love the debut album from Chez Kane!”
The singer wholeheartedly concurs "Though I was born in the 90s I’ve always had a major soft spot for that infectious 80s style, so from that aspect Danny’s songwriting suits me really well.
We have the same vision, drive and passion to make this album an absolute belter!"
Meanwhile, for those not familiar with Chez Kane or the singer's vocal talents outside of Kane'd, you can check out her YouTube page which features a large number of vocal-covers of classic rock songs, many of which were recorded recently during the Covid-19 lockdown, including a big-voiced rendition of Foreigner's 'Juke Box Hero'...
The singer came to the attention of Frontiers via existing label signing Danny Rexon (frontman of Crazy Lixx), who was tasked with scouting for, and subsequently producing, exciting new talent.
Demos recorded by the two immediately caught the ear of the label.
Says Chez Kane: "I feel so excited to have been asked to collaborate with Danny for a solo album. The second I heard the music, I instantly knew it was for me and I’m thrilled at the opportunity to launch my solo career this way. I am also so humbled to have Frontiers on board. This is going to be killer and I can’t wait!"
"There are tons of bands in the melodic rock genre" continues Danny Rexon "but I feel like we’re missing that great female solo artist singing hard rock. A kind of Lee Aaron, Lita Ford, or Robin Beck for the new decade. Having found Chez and discovering the potential in her voice, I have great faith in this endeavour.
I’ve written and arranged every song on the record, so it’s bound to have my signature style to it, however this album will be more retro radio friendly, more keyboard oriented and, of course, the fact that it’s a powerful female voice singing the songs will give it a whole other dimension.
If you are a fan of Lee Aaron, Vixen, Saraya, Chrissy Steele, Lita Ford and similar artists and feel like the genre is missing out on this vital component, you’re going to love the debut album from Chez Kane!”
The singer wholeheartedly concurs "Though I was born in the 90s I’ve always had a major soft spot for that infectious 80s style, so from that aspect Danny’s songwriting suits me really well.
We have the same vision, drive and passion to make this album an absolute belter!"
Meanwhile, for those not familiar with Chez Kane or the singer's vocal talents outside of Kane'd, you can check out her YouTube page which features a large number of vocal-covers of classic rock songs, many of which were recorded recently during the Covid-19 lockdown, including a big-voiced rendition of Foreigner's 'Juke Box Hero'...
For more information on Chez Kane, head to:
facebook.com/chezkanevocalist youtube.com/chezkane
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facebook.com/chezkanevocalist youtube.com/chezkane
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Award winning Scottish singer songwriter Jason Sweeney, whose love of roots and modern country is equalled only by his enthusiasm for infectious, guitar-driven melodic rock as heard with his band The King Lot, recently released country-waltz ballad 'The Glasses on the Table.'
A lyrically thoughtful and radio friendly number, 'The Glasses on the Table' is the first of a planned run of singles prior to the release of a full-length album in 2021.
'The Glasses on The Table' is a storytelling country song that, while reflecting upon a relationship and time in life that has passed, can have many interpretations, from the glass is half full or half empty evaluation (which part inspired the song) to how we perceive life through our own lenses...
A lyrically thoughtful and radio friendly number, 'The Glasses on the Table' is the first of a planned run of singles prior to the release of a full-length album in 2021.
'The Glasses on The Table' is a storytelling country song that, while reflecting upon a relationship and time in life that has passed, can have many interpretations, from the glass is half full or half empty evaluation (which part inspired the song) to how we perceive life through our own lenses...
Recorded and mixed by Scott Hannah at The Music Box in Edinburgh and mastered by Geoff Pesche at Abbey Road Studios in London, 'The Glasses on the Table' was digitally released on the 6th of April.
The Glasses on the Table:
Jason Sweeney – vocals and guitar; Scott Hannah – guitar; Chris Smith – drums; Brian Stewart – bass.
Jason Sweeney is an award-winning musician and private music tutor with over thirty years of performing experience as well as various commercial releases under his belt.
His solo music and melodic rock power trio The King Lot (who have released two acclaimed albums thus far) has taken him all around the UK in a touring and performing capacity.
As well as holding a 1st class honours degree in music Jason has also been recognised by Abertay University (contributions towards music in the community) and presented with the Tartan Clef Award by Nordoff Robins (as part of the Hard Rock Cafe awards).
Jason is currently completing his masters in songwriting at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).
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The Glasses on the Table:
Jason Sweeney – vocals and guitar; Scott Hannah – guitar; Chris Smith – drums; Brian Stewart – bass.
Jason Sweeney is an award-winning musician and private music tutor with over thirty years of performing experience as well as various commercial releases under his belt.
His solo music and melodic rock power trio The King Lot (who have released two acclaimed albums thus far) has taken him all around the UK in a touring and performing capacity.
As well as holding a 1st class honours degree in music Jason has also been recognised by Abertay University (contributions towards music in the community) and presented with the Tartan Clef Award by Nordoff Robins (as part of the Hard Rock Cafe awards).
Jason is currently completing his masters in songwriting at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).
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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