photo by Don Meridien
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Independent Music Reviewer & Music Promotion
Freelance Writer
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Independent Music Reviewer & Music Promotion
Freelance Writer
"Putting the Words to the Music"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Foreigner have announced a formal and official get-together of their original and current line-ups.
The show will take place at the nine day Sturgis Buffalo Chip event in South Dakota – "the largest musical festival in motorcycling" - on Saturday the 4th of August.
Lou Gramm, Dennis Elliott, Al Greenwood, Ian McDonald and Rick Wills will all join Mick Jones and the current Foreigner band to again contribute to some of the band’s best-selling songs and greatest hits from their multi-platinum past; while Foreigner’s original members have joined the band for surprise appearances in the past, this is the first ever ticketed reunion.
The show will take place at the nine day Sturgis Buffalo Chip event in South Dakota – "the largest musical festival in motorcycling" - on Saturday the 4th of August.
Lou Gramm, Dennis Elliott, Al Greenwood, Ian McDonald and Rick Wills will all join Mick Jones and the current Foreigner band to again contribute to some of the band’s best-selling songs and greatest hits from their multi-platinum past; while Foreigner’s original members have joined the band for surprise appearances in the past, this is the first ever ticketed reunion.
Says Mick Jones, "It’s been incredible to have Lou, Dennis, Al, Ian and Rick join us for some surprise appearances throughout the past few years. It always brings back special memories. But now, for the first time, we are letting our fans know we’ll be making history together on August 4th with a Foreigner reunion concert, and we hope they’ll come on down to Sturgis and join us!"
The reunion announcement comes on the heels of the 40th Anniversary of Foreigner’s best-selling album, Double Vision; the band is reportedly working on a special release to celebrate the occasion.
Foreigner is also charting new territory on the album charts.
Their latest album, Foreigner with the 21st Century Symphony Orchestra & Chorus has topped the Billboard Classical Album Chart for multiple weeks.
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The reunion announcement comes on the heels of the 40th Anniversary of Foreigner’s best-selling album, Double Vision; the band is reportedly working on a special release to celebrate the occasion.
Foreigner is also charting new territory on the album charts.
Their latest album, Foreigner with the 21st Century Symphony Orchestra & Chorus has topped the Billboard Classical Album Chart for multiple weeks.
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Solid Entertainments' Durham Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival takes place at Chlton Country Pub & Hotel this Saturday, 23rd June (PLEASE NOTE this is a change of venue from that originally specified).
Festival headliners the Climax Blues Band have had huge selling albums such as FM/Live and Gold Plated and infectious and memorable hits such as their singles 'Couldn’t Get It Right' (1976) and 'I Love You' (1981), with a reputation and acclaimed catalogue that continued through until the tragic death of founder member Colin Cooper in 2008.
Cooper’s death could have meant the end of the band, but his desire was for the band to continue creating the fine blues blend they had been associated with since their formation – for the last decade Colin Cooper’s desire has been accepted with relish by the remaining members of the band.
The current band fly the Climax flag with tremendous passion and style, taking the band forward and pleasing crowds throughout Europe.
The seamless transition in carrying on creating the unique Climax sound is the result of hard work, and a band who are having a great time making music.
Joining the Climax Blues Band at Durham are:
Chantel McGregor – delivering songs that salutes contemporary rock while showing her gradual transition from conventional blues to a harder, bigger and bolder rock sound with progressive and southern gothic influences.
Laurence Jones – one if the talents of the new generation of British blues-rock, singer-guitarist Laurence Jones released his fifth studio album The Truth, a blues-pop crossover album, earlier this year.
Ken Pustelnik’s Groundhogs - historically speaking Groundhogs, in their current form, have been in existence for but a moment in time, but their history, career and acclaimed back catalogue is extensive and varied.
Stevie Nimmo Trio – enjoying making music now as much as at any point throughout his twenty years in the business, Stevie Nimmo, one half of the Nimmo Brothers with younger sibling Alan, loves to play live.
His multi-faceted blues rock album Sky Won’t Fall was critically acclaimed upon its 2016 release.
Kris Barras Band – Nominated for Blues Guitarist of the Year 2017 by Total Guitar magazine and voted into the Top 15 Blues Guitarists in the World by Music Radar, Kris Barras has just released his latest album The Divine and Dirty.
Félix Rabin – a French twenty two year old singer-songwriter with a style that embodies the best of rock and blues – and an undeniable passion, enthusiasm and talent.
The Durham Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival, Saturday 23rd June
Chilton Country Pub & Hotel, Black Boy Road, West Rainton, Durham DH4 6PY
Early Bird tickets are still available at only £27.00 + booking fee.
To book, please call 01472 349 222 or go online at: http://durhambluesfestival.co.uk/tickets.html
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Festival headliners the Climax Blues Band have had huge selling albums such as FM/Live and Gold Plated and infectious and memorable hits such as their singles 'Couldn’t Get It Right' (1976) and 'I Love You' (1981), with a reputation and acclaimed catalogue that continued through until the tragic death of founder member Colin Cooper in 2008.
Cooper’s death could have meant the end of the band, but his desire was for the band to continue creating the fine blues blend they had been associated with since their formation – for the last decade Colin Cooper’s desire has been accepted with relish by the remaining members of the band.
The current band fly the Climax flag with tremendous passion and style, taking the band forward and pleasing crowds throughout Europe.
The seamless transition in carrying on creating the unique Climax sound is the result of hard work, and a band who are having a great time making music.
Joining the Climax Blues Band at Durham are:
Chantel McGregor – delivering songs that salutes contemporary rock while showing her gradual transition from conventional blues to a harder, bigger and bolder rock sound with progressive and southern gothic influences.
Laurence Jones – one if the talents of the new generation of British blues-rock, singer-guitarist Laurence Jones released his fifth studio album The Truth, a blues-pop crossover album, earlier this year.
Ken Pustelnik’s Groundhogs - historically speaking Groundhogs, in their current form, have been in existence for but a moment in time, but their history, career and acclaimed back catalogue is extensive and varied.
Stevie Nimmo Trio – enjoying making music now as much as at any point throughout his twenty years in the business, Stevie Nimmo, one half of the Nimmo Brothers with younger sibling Alan, loves to play live.
His multi-faceted blues rock album Sky Won’t Fall was critically acclaimed upon its 2016 release.
Kris Barras Band – Nominated for Blues Guitarist of the Year 2017 by Total Guitar magazine and voted into the Top 15 Blues Guitarists in the World by Music Radar, Kris Barras has just released his latest album The Divine and Dirty.
Félix Rabin – a French twenty two year old singer-songwriter with a style that embodies the best of rock and blues – and an undeniable passion, enthusiasm and talent.
The Durham Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival, Saturday 23rd June
Chilton Country Pub & Hotel, Black Boy Road, West Rainton, Durham DH4 6PY
Early Bird tickets are still available at only £27.00 + booking fee.
To book, please call 01472 349 222 or go online at: http://durhambluesfestival.co.uk/tickets.html
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BMG have announced the next three deluxe edition re-issues in their ongoing Saxon classic albums
re-releases.
Innocence Is No Excuse, Rock The Nations and Destiny will all be available from the 27th July and will sport 24-page media books (containing original lyrics, rare photos and memorabilia) as part of the CD releases (including a selection of bonus tracks) and Coloured/ Splatter Vinyl editions (with original track listing/ no bonus tracks).
re-releases.
Innocence Is No Excuse, Rock The Nations and Destiny will all be available from the 27th July and will sport 24-page media books (containing original lyrics, rare photos and memorabilia) as part of the CD releases (including a selection of bonus tracks) and Coloured/ Splatter Vinyl editions (with original track listing/ no bonus tracks).
Originally released on the 24th of June 1985, Saxon’s seventh album Innocence Is No Excuse was their first for then new label EMI after their departure from Carrere Records (this was also their last album to feature long standing bassist Steve Dawson).
This version features the B-Sides of the singles 'Back On The Streets' and 'Rock 'N' roll Gypsy' plus demo versions of tracks from the album recorded at Chapel Studio, Thorsby.
Track listing:
Rockin Again; Call Of The Wild; Back On The Streets; Devil Rides Out; Rock N Roll Gypsy; Broken Heroes; Gonna Shout; Everybody Up; Raise Some Hell; Give It Everything You’ve Got
CD Bonus Tracks:
Live Fast, Die Young (B-side of Back On The Streets); Krakatoa (B-side of Rock N Roll Gypsy); Broken Heroes (Chapel Studio demo); Devil Rides Out (Chapel Studio demo); Rock N Roll Gypsy (Chapel Studio demo); Rockin Again (Chapel Studio demo); Gonna Shout (Chapel Studio demo)
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/IINE
On the 13th of October 1986 Saxon released their eighth studio album Rock The Nations.
Biff Byford, who had begun his career as a singer/bassist, recorded all the bass parts on the album (although Paul Johnson is credited on the album as he joined prior to the album’s release.
Rock The Nations also features the unlikely guest of Elton John on piano on the tracks 'Northern Lady' and 'Party Til You Puke.'
This version of the album features radio edits of the singles from the album, some live B-Sides and three songs recorded by the BBC from Saxon’s set at the 1986 Reading Festival.
Track listing:
Rock The Nations; Battle Cry; Waiting For The Night; We Came Here To Rock; You Ain’t No Angel; Running Hot; Party Til You Puke; Empty Promises; Northern Lady.
CD Bonus Tracks:
Chase The Fade (B-side of Waiting For The Night); Waiting For The Night (7” single edit); Northern Lady (7” single edit); Everybody Up (Live in Madrid, B-side of Northern Lady); Dallas 1pm (Live in Madrid, B-side of Northern Lady); Power & The Glory (BBC Live at Reading Festival 1986); Rock The Nations (BBC Live At Reading Festival 1986); Waiting For The Night (BBC Live At Reading Festival 1986)
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/RockTheNations
Saxon’s ninth studio album, Destiny, was originally released on the 20th of June 1988 and is the only Saxon album to feature the rhythm section of Nigel Durham (drums) and Paul Johnson (bass).
Being a fan of Christopher Cross’s song writing, Biff Byford came up with the idea of covering 'Ride Like The Wind' as the album’s lead-off single, after giving it a Saxon makeover.
This version of the album includes a 12" mix of 'I Can’t Wait Anymore' plus live B-Sides and two, alternative monitor mixes.
Track listing:
Ride Like The Wind; Where The Lightning Strikes; I Can’t Wait Anymore; Calm Before The Storm; S.O.S; Song For Emma; For Whom The Bell Tolls; We Are Strong; Jericho Siren; Red Alert
CD Bonus Tracks:
I Can’t Wait Anymore (12” mix); Rock The Nations (Live At Hammersmith, B-side of Ride Like The Wind); Broken Heroes (Live In Madrid, B-side of I Can’t Wait Anymore); Gonna Shout (Live In Madrid, B-side of I Can’t Wait Anymore); Ride Like The Wind (Monitor mix); For Whom The Bells Tolls (Monitor mix).
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/Destiny
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This version features the B-Sides of the singles 'Back On The Streets' and 'Rock 'N' roll Gypsy' plus demo versions of tracks from the album recorded at Chapel Studio, Thorsby.
Track listing:
Rockin Again; Call Of The Wild; Back On The Streets; Devil Rides Out; Rock N Roll Gypsy; Broken Heroes; Gonna Shout; Everybody Up; Raise Some Hell; Give It Everything You’ve Got
CD Bonus Tracks:
Live Fast, Die Young (B-side of Back On The Streets); Krakatoa (B-side of Rock N Roll Gypsy); Broken Heroes (Chapel Studio demo); Devil Rides Out (Chapel Studio demo); Rock N Roll Gypsy (Chapel Studio demo); Rockin Again (Chapel Studio demo); Gonna Shout (Chapel Studio demo)
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/IINE
On the 13th of October 1986 Saxon released their eighth studio album Rock The Nations.
Biff Byford, who had begun his career as a singer/bassist, recorded all the bass parts on the album (although Paul Johnson is credited on the album as he joined prior to the album’s release.
Rock The Nations also features the unlikely guest of Elton John on piano on the tracks 'Northern Lady' and 'Party Til You Puke.'
This version of the album features radio edits of the singles from the album, some live B-Sides and three songs recorded by the BBC from Saxon’s set at the 1986 Reading Festival.
Track listing:
Rock The Nations; Battle Cry; Waiting For The Night; We Came Here To Rock; You Ain’t No Angel; Running Hot; Party Til You Puke; Empty Promises; Northern Lady.
CD Bonus Tracks:
Chase The Fade (B-side of Waiting For The Night); Waiting For The Night (7” single edit); Northern Lady (7” single edit); Everybody Up (Live in Madrid, B-side of Northern Lady); Dallas 1pm (Live in Madrid, B-side of Northern Lady); Power & The Glory (BBC Live at Reading Festival 1986); Rock The Nations (BBC Live At Reading Festival 1986); Waiting For The Night (BBC Live At Reading Festival 1986)
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/RockTheNations
Saxon’s ninth studio album, Destiny, was originally released on the 20th of June 1988 and is the only Saxon album to feature the rhythm section of Nigel Durham (drums) and Paul Johnson (bass).
Being a fan of Christopher Cross’s song writing, Biff Byford came up with the idea of covering 'Ride Like The Wind' as the album’s lead-off single, after giving it a Saxon makeover.
This version of the album includes a 12" mix of 'I Can’t Wait Anymore' plus live B-Sides and two, alternative monitor mixes.
Track listing:
Ride Like The Wind; Where The Lightning Strikes; I Can’t Wait Anymore; Calm Before The Storm; S.O.S; Song For Emma; For Whom The Bell Tolls; We Are Strong; Jericho Siren; Red Alert
CD Bonus Tracks:
I Can’t Wait Anymore (12” mix); Rock The Nations (Live At Hammersmith, B-side of Ride Like The Wind); Broken Heroes (Live In Madrid, B-side of I Can’t Wait Anymore); Gonna Shout (Live In Madrid, B-side of I Can’t Wait Anymore); Ride Like The Wind (Monitor mix); For Whom The Bells Tolls (Monitor mix).
Pre-order link: https://saxonband.lnk.to/Destiny
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Bad Touch, the ever-busy and seemingly ever-touring southern tinged blues rockers from Norwich, have announced a worldwide album deal with Marshall Records and an 18 date autumn-winter date of the UK.
The band’s new album Shake a Leg will be released on October 5th; Bad Touch will then go out in support of the release (with special guests Aaron Buchanan and The Cult Classics, and Daxx & Roxane) starting at the University Union in Newcastle on October the 17th and finishing with a date at the Robin 2 in Wolverhampton on November the 19th.
The band’s new album Shake a Leg will be released on October 5th; Bad Touch will then go out in support of the release (with special guests Aaron Buchanan and The Cult Classics, and Daxx & Roxane) starting at the University Union in Newcastle on October the 17th and finishing with a date at the Robin 2 in Wolverhampton on November the 19th.
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Solid Entertainments will deliver not just their first ever rock infused festival, to be held in Leicester on Saturday the 18th of August, but one that mixes and matches rock with a selection of quality blues and blues-rock based acts, all hosted at the superb facilities of the Leicester Arena.
To capitalise on having such an excellent venue to showcase both rock & blues Solid Entertainments have produced a bill that includes some of the best acts in those genres as well as a number of up and coming bands.
Headlined by King King and featuring FM (two of the biggest and most respected names in British blues rock and British melodic rock respectively) plus seven other acts, Leicester Rocks is already shaping up to be one of the best one-day rock events this summer, not just in the east midlands region of England but across the entire country.
King King are the band to beat in British blues rock. Since forming in 2010 around the talents of Glasgow’s Alan Nimmo and bassist Lyndsay Coulson, King King – featuring UK Blues Hall of Fame drummer Wayne Proctor and keyboardist Jonny Dyke, the band have delivered four critically acclaimed studio albums, a live album and received a host of awards.
Latest album Exile & Grace, a well-conceived collection of classic rock meets blues rock material, was voted Best Album at the 2018 UK Blues Awards.
Packing out club venues and now larger theatres and halls, King King have also supported acts as musically diverse but as big in stature as John Mayall and Thunder; the band will undoubtedly increase their audience further when they support Europe on the Swedish giants UK & European tour dates this September and October.
FM’s first public appearance in the UK was on Valentine's Day of 1985, attracting rave reviews.
Following the success and impact of debut album Indiscreet (1986) and Tough it Out (1989) FM were established as the UK’s premier melodic rock outfit; that’s an accolade, with albums such as Heroes and Villains (2015), the classic album re-recorded success of Indiscreet 30 and latest offering Atomic Generation, that still stands three decades later.
More importantly, since reforming in 2007, FM are enjoying the most accomplished period of their (second) career.
Also performing at Leicester Rocks:
The Brew
When you see The Brew live on stage it becomes clear why the power blues rock trio get rave reviews across the board and a reputation as one of Europe's most exciting and rock acts and, with latest album Shake the Tree, why that same acclaim is given to them in the studio.
Sari Schorr
In 2016 the New York blues hall of famer struck out on a solo career with the outstanding and critically acclaimed Force of Nature, produced by Mike Vernon.
Currently finishing off her second album, due for release in the autumn of this year, Sari Schorr and her new band (featuring guitarist Ash Wilson, a "one to watch" with his own excellent debut album Broken Machine) will bring powerful vocals and powerful blues rocking performance to Leicester
Aaron Keylock
A member of the younger generation on the rock club circuit (prior to his emergence on the scene he was stringing his Les Paul and rocking the clubs in Oxford) Aaron Keylock caught some attention as part of the Planet Rock Roadstars Triple Bill tour (also featuring SIMO and Federal Charm) in December 2016; he then showcased his feisty brand of blues rock on debut album Cut Against the Grain in 2017.
Xander And The Peace Pirates
Combining soul, blues and rock with inspired song writing and memorable live performances, this band are catching the eyes and ears of British blues rock audiences.
Bad Touch
Over the last few years the dynamic performances of these southern styled blues rockers have made them one of the "must see" bands on the blues and rock club circuit.
As importantly, the quality of Half Way Home (2015) and Truth Be Told (2016) (and a third offering on the way) also makes them one of the "must have" bands as regards their studio albums.
Gin Annie
A hard melodic rock quintet from Wolverhampton, Gin Annie feature heavy guitar driven songs with melodic vocal stylings, hook-laden choruses and classy melodies.
Hollowstar
Comprised of four accomplished musicians, Hollowstar have been cited as taking inspiration from Blackstone Cherry, Thunder and Slash but as latest single 'All I Gotta Say' emphatically declares, with some serious swagger and a whole dose of sonic energy, they are fast developing their own contemporary rockin’ sound with storytelling lyricism.
Leicester Arena provides the largest and most flexible space in the city.
With over 2,440m2 of floor space in the main Arena, the facility hosts a wide range of events, with access to superb catering facilities and on-site complimentary car parking. In close proximity to the city centre, it is also easily accessible by public transport.
Leicester Rocks, Saturday 18th August
Leicester Arena, 31 Charter Street, Leicester LE1 3UD
Early Bird tickets are only £28 (+ Booking Fee). To book please call 01472 349 222 or go online at:
http://leicesterrocks.co.uk/tickets.html?COLLCC=2075547505&
To find out more about the line up and festival in general, please visit:
http://leicesterrocks.co.uk/index.html?COLLCC=1295288328&
Doors open 1.30 pm; music starts 2.00 pm; event ends 11.00 pm
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To capitalise on having such an excellent venue to showcase both rock & blues Solid Entertainments have produced a bill that includes some of the best acts in those genres as well as a number of up and coming bands.
Headlined by King King and featuring FM (two of the biggest and most respected names in British blues rock and British melodic rock respectively) plus seven other acts, Leicester Rocks is already shaping up to be one of the best one-day rock events this summer, not just in the east midlands region of England but across the entire country.
King King are the band to beat in British blues rock. Since forming in 2010 around the talents of Glasgow’s Alan Nimmo and bassist Lyndsay Coulson, King King – featuring UK Blues Hall of Fame drummer Wayne Proctor and keyboardist Jonny Dyke, the band have delivered four critically acclaimed studio albums, a live album and received a host of awards.
Latest album Exile & Grace, a well-conceived collection of classic rock meets blues rock material, was voted Best Album at the 2018 UK Blues Awards.
Packing out club venues and now larger theatres and halls, King King have also supported acts as musically diverse but as big in stature as John Mayall and Thunder; the band will undoubtedly increase their audience further when they support Europe on the Swedish giants UK & European tour dates this September and October.
FM’s first public appearance in the UK was on Valentine's Day of 1985, attracting rave reviews.
Following the success and impact of debut album Indiscreet (1986) and Tough it Out (1989) FM were established as the UK’s premier melodic rock outfit; that’s an accolade, with albums such as Heroes and Villains (2015), the classic album re-recorded success of Indiscreet 30 and latest offering Atomic Generation, that still stands three decades later.
More importantly, since reforming in 2007, FM are enjoying the most accomplished period of their (second) career.
Also performing at Leicester Rocks:
The Brew
When you see The Brew live on stage it becomes clear why the power blues rock trio get rave reviews across the board and a reputation as one of Europe's most exciting and rock acts and, with latest album Shake the Tree, why that same acclaim is given to them in the studio.
Sari Schorr
In 2016 the New York blues hall of famer struck out on a solo career with the outstanding and critically acclaimed Force of Nature, produced by Mike Vernon.
Currently finishing off her second album, due for release in the autumn of this year, Sari Schorr and her new band (featuring guitarist Ash Wilson, a "one to watch" with his own excellent debut album Broken Machine) will bring powerful vocals and powerful blues rocking performance to Leicester
Aaron Keylock
A member of the younger generation on the rock club circuit (prior to his emergence on the scene he was stringing his Les Paul and rocking the clubs in Oxford) Aaron Keylock caught some attention as part of the Planet Rock Roadstars Triple Bill tour (also featuring SIMO and Federal Charm) in December 2016; he then showcased his feisty brand of blues rock on debut album Cut Against the Grain in 2017.
Xander And The Peace Pirates
Combining soul, blues and rock with inspired song writing and memorable live performances, this band are catching the eyes and ears of British blues rock audiences.
Bad Touch
Over the last few years the dynamic performances of these southern styled blues rockers have made them one of the "must see" bands on the blues and rock club circuit.
As importantly, the quality of Half Way Home (2015) and Truth Be Told (2016) (and a third offering on the way) also makes them one of the "must have" bands as regards their studio albums.
Gin Annie
A hard melodic rock quintet from Wolverhampton, Gin Annie feature heavy guitar driven songs with melodic vocal stylings, hook-laden choruses and classy melodies.
Hollowstar
Comprised of four accomplished musicians, Hollowstar have been cited as taking inspiration from Blackstone Cherry, Thunder and Slash but as latest single 'All I Gotta Say' emphatically declares, with some serious swagger and a whole dose of sonic energy, they are fast developing their own contemporary rockin’ sound with storytelling lyricism.
Leicester Arena provides the largest and most flexible space in the city.
With over 2,440m2 of floor space in the main Arena, the facility hosts a wide range of events, with access to superb catering facilities and on-site complimentary car parking. In close proximity to the city centre, it is also easily accessible by public transport.
Leicester Rocks, Saturday 18th August
Leicester Arena, 31 Charter Street, Leicester LE1 3UD
Early Bird tickets are only £28 (+ Booking Fee). To book please call 01472 349 222 or go online at:
http://leicesterrocks.co.uk/tickets.html?COLLCC=2075547505&
To find out more about the line up and festival in general, please visit:
http://leicesterrocks.co.uk/index.html?COLLCC=1295288328&
Doors open 1.30 pm; music starts 2.00 pm; event ends 11.00 pm
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Having recently been delighted to report on the Dreadnoughtrock in Bathgate being recognised at the Scottish Hospitality Awards with a Highly Commended nod (see news item directly below this one), it’s great to also be able to report on a truly fantastic achievement for the Edinburgh Blues Club, which picked up the award for Best Blues Club of the Year at the UK Blues Awards 2018.
The EBC beat out competition from the likes of London’s St Harmonica Blues Club and Manchester’s Blue Funk Rhythm and Blues Club; the award is all the more impressive when you consider the Edinburgh Blues Club was only established in 2014 and is a not for profit endeavour run by volunteers who are passionate about their blues based music and bringing the best of that blues to Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Blues Club is also programming and promoting The Edinburgh Blues ‘N’ Rock Festival 2018 which takes place at the Corn Exchange on the 22nd of September; the festival will feature British blues rock stalwarts Ten Years After and American blues soul songstress Dana Fuchs, who released her excellent Memphis/Southern Soul album Love Lives On earlier this year.
With the ‘Nought’s Highly Commended nod and The Edinburgh Blues Club’s prestigious British Blues award, it’s not a bad time for live rock and blues over Lothian way.
Serious and hearty congratulations from the other side of the country/ FabricationsHQ to both clubs.
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The EBC beat out competition from the likes of London’s St Harmonica Blues Club and Manchester’s Blue Funk Rhythm and Blues Club; the award is all the more impressive when you consider the Edinburgh Blues Club was only established in 2014 and is a not for profit endeavour run by volunteers who are passionate about their blues based music and bringing the best of that blues to Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Blues Club is also programming and promoting The Edinburgh Blues ‘N’ Rock Festival 2018 which takes place at the Corn Exchange on the 22nd of September; the festival will feature British blues rock stalwarts Ten Years After and American blues soul songstress Dana Fuchs, who released her excellent Memphis/Southern Soul album Love Lives On earlier this year.
With the ‘Nought’s Highly Commended nod and The Edinburgh Blues Club’s prestigious British Blues award, it’s not a bad time for live rock and blues over Lothian way.
Serious and hearty congratulations from the other side of the country/ FabricationsHQ to both clubs.
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Alan Russell (photo: The Daily Record)
As mentioned above, fantastic to see and hear that the Dreadnoughtrock music venue in Bathgate had been recognised at the Scottish Hospitality Awards.
Scotland’s longest running rock club (which has played host to numerous international and national rock based artists over the decades including The Quireboys, Gun, Dan Reed of the Dan Reed Network and original Thin Lizzy guitarist Eric Bell) was Highly Commended at the national awards ceremony after being nominated in the Best Live Music Venue category.
Alan Russell, part of the team who make the Dreadnoughtrock the friendly and renowned rock club it is, said of the recognition to the Daily Record:
"We at the Dreadnought work very hard to make it a great place to be, and find it a great honour to have this recognised by the public and to be shortlisted for such a prestigious event as The Scottish Hospitality Awards.
"Our live music sessions have featured some top internationally renowned bands and artist from all over the world and this has helped to enhance the standing of the club as being a great place to play.
"We have also been working hard to establish, nurture and feature local original bands, some of which have gone on to bigger and better things in the music industry. This has been one of our goals from the outset, to keep live music growing in the area.
"In order to achieve this and to keep the venue popular as a live music platform, we try to make the experience just as enjoyable for the artists as it is for the customers who come to see and hear them."
The Dreadnoughtrock also makes significant contributions for charity – the venue has raised over £35,000 through their annual RushFest Scotland events for causes such as Teenage Cancer Trust and McMillan Cancer Support (this year’s RushFest event raised £6500 for St Columba’s Hospice).
The club also hosts an annual event for the music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins Scotland, with this year’s event scheduled for the 18th of August (you can read the review of last year’s event here including a little more on Nordoff Robbins Scotland and those it helps).
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Scotland’s longest running rock club (which has played host to numerous international and national rock based artists over the decades including The Quireboys, Gun, Dan Reed of the Dan Reed Network and original Thin Lizzy guitarist Eric Bell) was Highly Commended at the national awards ceremony after being nominated in the Best Live Music Venue category.
Alan Russell, part of the team who make the Dreadnoughtrock the friendly and renowned rock club it is, said of the recognition to the Daily Record:
"We at the Dreadnought work very hard to make it a great place to be, and find it a great honour to have this recognised by the public and to be shortlisted for such a prestigious event as The Scottish Hospitality Awards.
"Our live music sessions have featured some top internationally renowned bands and artist from all over the world and this has helped to enhance the standing of the club as being a great place to play.
"We have also been working hard to establish, nurture and feature local original bands, some of which have gone on to bigger and better things in the music industry. This has been one of our goals from the outset, to keep live music growing in the area.
"In order to achieve this and to keep the venue popular as a live music platform, we try to make the experience just as enjoyable for the artists as it is for the customers who come to see and hear them."
The Dreadnoughtrock also makes significant contributions for charity – the venue has raised over £35,000 through their annual RushFest Scotland events for causes such as Teenage Cancer Trust and McMillan Cancer Support (this year’s RushFest event raised £6500 for St Columba’s Hospice).
The club also hosts an annual event for the music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins Scotland, with this year’s event scheduled for the 18th of August (you can read the review of last year’s event here including a little more on Nordoff Robbins Scotland and those it helps).
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Uriah Heep will play a quintet of dates in the UK in December to promote their forthcoming 25th studio album Living The Dream, released via Frontiers Music Srl. On Friday the 14th of September.
The ‘eavy and ‘umble rockers will play shows in Manchester (Ritz, 12th December), Glasgow (02ABC 13th December), London (Shepherd's Bush Empire, 14th December), Nottingham (Rock City, 15th December) and Hull (City Hall, 16th December). Tickets are on sale now.
Uriah Heep fans can pre-order Living The Dream via the band's Pledge Music page.
Packages range from a £10 digital download to £500 for a Golden Ticket, which guarantees entry to all headlining dates on the Living The Dream tour together with a meet-and-greet with the band.
Co-founder and guitarist of Uriah Heep Mick Box says: "We are excited to announce the release of the new album on the 14th September. The producer for this project was famed producer Jay Ruston, and the album will be released on Frontiers Records. The new album rocks and, thanks to our fans and your continued support, we are still Living that Dream! 'Appy days!"
Heep’s lead vocalist Bernie Shaw adds that "Jay Rushton’s production has brought the power from our live shows onto the record. A now invaluable member of the 'Heep Family!' Can’t wait to play these songs live!"
The ‘eavy and ‘umble rockers will play shows in Manchester (Ritz, 12th December), Glasgow (02ABC 13th December), London (Shepherd's Bush Empire, 14th December), Nottingham (Rock City, 15th December) and Hull (City Hall, 16th December). Tickets are on sale now.
Uriah Heep fans can pre-order Living The Dream via the band's Pledge Music page.
Packages range from a £10 digital download to £500 for a Golden Ticket, which guarantees entry to all headlining dates on the Living The Dream tour together with a meet-and-greet with the band.
Co-founder and guitarist of Uriah Heep Mick Box says: "We are excited to announce the release of the new album on the 14th September. The producer for this project was famed producer Jay Ruston, and the album will be released on Frontiers Records. The new album rocks and, thanks to our fans and your continued support, we are still Living that Dream! 'Appy days!"
Heep’s lead vocalist Bernie Shaw adds that "Jay Rushton’s production has brought the power from our live shows onto the record. A now invaluable member of the 'Heep Family!' Can’t wait to play these songs live!"
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Staffordshire based hard rock quartet The Howling Tides have released a video for their first single 'Crack My Soul,' which was released on the 4th of June on WDFD Records.
The track will also feature on the band’s new, self-titled EP, due for release on the 29th of June.
The track will also feature on the band’s new, self-titled EP, due for release on the 29th of June.
The Howling Tides are formed around four lifelong friends – Rob Baynes (vocals/guitar), Hayden Kirk (guitar/vocals), Luke Lawley (bass/vocals) and Steven 'Herbie' Herbert (drums) – and their mutual fondness for hard rock, metal and blues rock; all of which combines to produce a high energy presentation of original material.
The band have played hundreds of shows (sharing gig line-ups with the likes of The Dead Daisies, Crazy Town, RavenEye and Bad Touch, to name but four), released two EP’s and garnered positive reviews and significant radio airplay (including acclaim from Planet Rock's Paul Antony & Kerrang!'s Johnny Doom, under previous moniker Anonymous).
The Howling Tides, recently returned from the Hard Rock Hell Ibiza festival, and are now gearing up for the release their self-titled 5-track EP (produced by British blues rock stalwart Aynsley Lister).
It’s also the release with which the young band might just make their hard rocking mark.
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The band have played hundreds of shows (sharing gig line-ups with the likes of The Dead Daisies, Crazy Town, RavenEye and Bad Touch, to name but four), released two EP’s and garnered positive reviews and significant radio airplay (including acclaim from Planet Rock's Paul Antony & Kerrang!'s Johnny Doom, under previous moniker Anonymous).
The Howling Tides, recently returned from the Hard Rock Hell Ibiza festival, and are now gearing up for the release their self-titled 5-track EP (produced by British blues rock stalwart Aynsley Lister).
It’s also the release with which the young band might just make their hard rocking mark.
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Billy Idol will bring his Live! 2018 Tour to the UK and Europe in June and July; these will be Idol’s first UK / European run of dates since his successful Kings & Queens of The Underground Tour in 2014 and 2015.
The 2018 UK dates kick off with a show at the 02 in Manchester and include a performance at London’s Brixton Academy on the 23rd of June; further dates are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
UK Tickets go on sale on Friday 15th December at 10.00am from https://www.livenation.co.uk/artist/billy-idol-tickets
Billy Idol was one of MTV’s first megastars, making him one of the most recognizable faces in pop music and an arena tour artist. He has sold 40 million albums, scored a number of platinum albums worldwide, had nine Top Forty singles in the US and ten in the UK including 'Dancing With Myself,' 'White Wedding,' 'Rebel Yell,' 'Mony Mony,' 'Eyes Without a Face,' 'Flesh For Fantasy' and 'Cradle Of Love.'
Idol returned to the spotlight in the fall of 2014 with two high profile releases that marked the latest chapter in the long and remarkable story of a man and musician who returned from the brink; a rebel whose yells made the mainstream sit up and pay attention…
Billy Idol’s New York Times bestselling autobiography Dancing With Myself is an intelligent, brutally honest and entirely self-written account of Billy Idol’s journey to fame, from his early days as front man of the pioneering UK punk band Generation X to a long and often decadent life lived loving sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll and motorcycles.
Kings & Queens of The Underground was Billy Idol’s first album of new material in nearly a decade.
The album’s palette, which includes incredible contributions from Idol’s long-time collaborator and lead guitarist Steve Stevens, will be instantly familiar to lovers of classic Billy Idol, while announcing a firm step into the future.
Produced by Trevor Horn, the album is full of thumping, cinematic songs about sin, redemption and the love of rock ‘n’ roll.
"Kings & Queens of The Underground has been worth the wait because it's the singer's best album to date, certainly in terms of its musical breadth and the reflective nature of some of the songs (clearly influenced by the recent writing and publication of his autobiography Dancing With Myself)."
- FabricationsHQ
"Wrapped in leather and soaked in nostalgia, the punk zealot serves up hard riffs with attitude… Idol struts and snarls, propelled by the conviction that rock is the cure for whatever ails you… this show is nothing if not fantastic fun."
- The Guardian
Billy Idol Live!2018 UK & European Tour (more to be announced)
June 20th - Manchester, UK - O2 Apollo
June 21st - Birmingham, UK - O2 Academy
June 23rd - London, UK - O2 Academy Brixton
June 25th - Luxembourg, LU - Rockhal
June 26th - Regensburg, DE - Donau Arena
June 30th - Zajecar, RS - Guitar Fest
July 2nd - Budapest, HU - Budapest Park Open Air
July 3rd - Munich, DE - Tollwood Festival
July 6th - Zurich, CH - Hallenstadion
July 14th - Halle, DE - Peissnitz Insel
July 17th - Cologne, DE - Tanzbrunnen
July 19th - Berlin, DE - Zitadelle
July 21st - Slupsk, PL - Charlotta Valley Amp
July 22nd - Hamburg, DE - Stadtpark
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The 2018 UK dates kick off with a show at the 02 in Manchester and include a performance at London’s Brixton Academy on the 23rd of June; further dates are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
UK Tickets go on sale on Friday 15th December at 10.00am from https://www.livenation.co.uk/artist/billy-idol-tickets
Billy Idol was one of MTV’s first megastars, making him one of the most recognizable faces in pop music and an arena tour artist. He has sold 40 million albums, scored a number of platinum albums worldwide, had nine Top Forty singles in the US and ten in the UK including 'Dancing With Myself,' 'White Wedding,' 'Rebel Yell,' 'Mony Mony,' 'Eyes Without a Face,' 'Flesh For Fantasy' and 'Cradle Of Love.'
Idol returned to the spotlight in the fall of 2014 with two high profile releases that marked the latest chapter in the long and remarkable story of a man and musician who returned from the brink; a rebel whose yells made the mainstream sit up and pay attention…
Billy Idol’s New York Times bestselling autobiography Dancing With Myself is an intelligent, brutally honest and entirely self-written account of Billy Idol’s journey to fame, from his early days as front man of the pioneering UK punk band Generation X to a long and often decadent life lived loving sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll and motorcycles.
Kings & Queens of The Underground was Billy Idol’s first album of new material in nearly a decade.
The album’s palette, which includes incredible contributions from Idol’s long-time collaborator and lead guitarist Steve Stevens, will be instantly familiar to lovers of classic Billy Idol, while announcing a firm step into the future.
Produced by Trevor Horn, the album is full of thumping, cinematic songs about sin, redemption and the love of rock ‘n’ roll.
"Kings & Queens of The Underground has been worth the wait because it's the singer's best album to date, certainly in terms of its musical breadth and the reflective nature of some of the songs (clearly influenced by the recent writing and publication of his autobiography Dancing With Myself)."
- FabricationsHQ
"Wrapped in leather and soaked in nostalgia, the punk zealot serves up hard riffs with attitude… Idol struts and snarls, propelled by the conviction that rock is the cure for whatever ails you… this show is nothing if not fantastic fun."
- The Guardian
Billy Idol Live!2018 UK & European Tour (more to be announced)
June 20th - Manchester, UK - O2 Apollo
June 21st - Birmingham, UK - O2 Academy
June 23rd - London, UK - O2 Academy Brixton
June 25th - Luxembourg, LU - Rockhal
June 26th - Regensburg, DE - Donau Arena
June 30th - Zajecar, RS - Guitar Fest
July 2nd - Budapest, HU - Budapest Park Open Air
July 3rd - Munich, DE - Tollwood Festival
July 6th - Zurich, CH - Hallenstadion
July 14th - Halle, DE - Peissnitz Insel
July 17th - Cologne, DE - Tanzbrunnen
July 19th - Berlin, DE - Zitadelle
July 21st - Slupsk, PL - Charlotta Valley Amp
July 22nd - Hamburg, DE - Stadtpark
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Blues rock singer-guitarist Kris Barras and his band, who released their third album The Divine And Dirty earlier this year, will embark on a seventeen date tour of the UK through September.
The tour kicks off at the Phoenix in Exeter on the 7th of September and culminates with a headline slot at the Kent Blues Collective Festival in Gillingham on the 29th of September.
The Kris Barras Band gave themselves a hard to act to follow with second album Lucky 13 in 2016, of which FabricationsHQ said in review "Barras, with Lucky 13, is clearly rolling sevens."
Two years on, with The Divine And Dirty, Kris Barras and band (bassist Elliott Blackler, drummer Will Beavis, keyboardist Josiah J Manning) are rolling the dice again – new label Provogue and Barras are hoping their numbers come up with an album that mixes the blues rock sound of the band's self-titled debut and Lucky 13 alongside tracks with AOR polish, 80s styled melodic rock sounds and bigger production values.
You can read FabricationsHQ’s review of The Divine And Dirty over on the 2018 Album Reviews page
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The tour kicks off at the Phoenix in Exeter on the 7th of September and culminates with a headline slot at the Kent Blues Collective Festival in Gillingham on the 29th of September.
The Kris Barras Band gave themselves a hard to act to follow with second album Lucky 13 in 2016, of which FabricationsHQ said in review "Barras, with Lucky 13, is clearly rolling sevens."
Two years on, with The Divine And Dirty, Kris Barras and band (bassist Elliott Blackler, drummer Will Beavis, keyboardist Josiah J Manning) are rolling the dice again – new label Provogue and Barras are hoping their numbers come up with an album that mixes the blues rock sound of the band's self-titled debut and Lucky 13 alongside tracks with AOR polish, 80s styled melodic rock sounds and bigger production values.
You can read FabricationsHQ’s review of The Divine And Dirty over on the 2018 Album Reviews page
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Midlands based hard rock band The Bad Flowers and Stockport based blues rockers Federal Charm will co-headline a Planet Rock Presents tour in September; the tour starts at the Thekla, Bristol, on Wednesday the 19th of September and ends on Sunday the 30th September at London’s Borderline.
British contemporary rock outfit Those Damn Crows will support on all dates.
Following their self-titled EP in 2016, The Bad Flowers - Tom Leighton (vocals, guitar), Dale Bollard Tonks (bass), Karl Selickis (drums) - released the critically acclaimed debut album Starting Gun in February 2018.
The band undertook a UK tour supporting Stone Broken and Jared James Nichols the same month and this summer play several festivals including Steelhouse, Stone Free and Hard Rock Hell (they will also play at Planet Rockstock in December).
After a successful Planet Rock Roadstars triple bill tour with SIMO and Aaron Keylock at the end of 2016 Federal Charm recorded some new demos in an away-from-it-all cottage in Wales.
The demos ultimately led to line-up changes a few months later; founding members Paul Bowe (guitar) and L.D. Morawski (bass) recruited Southampton vocalist Tom Guyer and top Manchester drummer Josh Zahler.
With a new energy and purpose the retooled Federal Charm team of Bowe, Morawski, Guyer and Zahler set to work writing and recording new material and opening shows for UFO, Y&T and Brian Downey’s Alive and Dangerous band.
Federal Charm recently road-tested some of the new songs via four shows in Bristol, Norwich, Manchester and Newcastle, receiving the thumbs up from fans and critics alike.
The band’s co-headline UK tour with the Bad Flowers is timely, as the band will preview material from their new album Passengers which will be released in autumn 2018.
Fans who pre-order Passengers (the album can be pre-ordered via iTunes, Amazon and Spotify) will get the first single 'Choke' as an instant and free, digital download.
The CD will be available on the merch desk when Federal Charm tour with The Bad Flowers.
British contemporary rock outfit Those Damn Crows will support on all dates.
Following their self-titled EP in 2016, The Bad Flowers - Tom Leighton (vocals, guitar), Dale Bollard Tonks (bass), Karl Selickis (drums) - released the critically acclaimed debut album Starting Gun in February 2018.
The band undertook a UK tour supporting Stone Broken and Jared James Nichols the same month and this summer play several festivals including Steelhouse, Stone Free and Hard Rock Hell (they will also play at Planet Rockstock in December).
After a successful Planet Rock Roadstars triple bill tour with SIMO and Aaron Keylock at the end of 2016 Federal Charm recorded some new demos in an away-from-it-all cottage in Wales.
The demos ultimately led to line-up changes a few months later; founding members Paul Bowe (guitar) and L.D. Morawski (bass) recruited Southampton vocalist Tom Guyer and top Manchester drummer Josh Zahler.
With a new energy and purpose the retooled Federal Charm team of Bowe, Morawski, Guyer and Zahler set to work writing and recording new material and opening shows for UFO, Y&T and Brian Downey’s Alive and Dangerous band.
Federal Charm recently road-tested some of the new songs via four shows in Bristol, Norwich, Manchester and Newcastle, receiving the thumbs up from fans and critics alike.
The band’s co-headline UK tour with the Bad Flowers is timely, as the band will preview material from their new album Passengers which will be released in autumn 2018.
Fans who pre-order Passengers (the album can be pre-ordered via iTunes, Amazon and Spotify) will get the first single 'Choke' as an instant and free, digital download.
The CD will be available on the merch desk when Federal Charm tour with The Bad Flowers.
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Singer/ multi-instrumentalist/ producer Robert Berry’s new album, The Rules Have Changed, will be released under the banner name 3.2 on Frontiers Records on August 10th.
The 3.2 title (while still retaining The Rules Have Changed sub-title) is in honour of the late Keith Emerson.
The album features song writing contributions and musical ideas from the late keyboard legend (Berry was a band mate of Emerson and Carl Palmer on their melodic rock trio project, 3, which produced the AOR-prog classic …To The Power of Three in 1988) and is also the last musical project Keith Emerson was involved with prior to his untimely and tragic death in 2016.
The origins of 3 came from a plan to form a more melodic, commercially geared band featuring the talents of Keith Emerson, Robert Berry and Carl Palmer; the results were ...To The Power of Three released b Geffen Records in 1988.
The first single, 'Talkin' 'Bout' was a Top 10 Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart success; 3 successfully toured the US in support the album.
Geffen urged the band to go back into the studio to begin work on a second album but Keith Emerson felt uncomfortable with Geffen’s inconsistent promotional strategy that cut the first album's success short, consequently prompting the band to call it quits (several songs were already written for the band’s second album however, a number of which were later released on Robert Berry’s solo album Pilgrimage To a Point).
In late 2015, conversations about a new 3 album started between Robert Berry and Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino. Berry relayed those conversations to Keith Emerson which led to the interest in pursuing the project.
After Keith Emerson’s death in 2016, Robert Berry was left with the keyboardist’s musical ideas for the project.
Old cassette tapes (residual 3 writings from 1988), keyboard parts written over the phone and long discussions between the two musicians about the style and sound of the album led to the framework of what has become 3.2 : The Rules Have Changed.
"Keith and I developed together a vision of what the new album would be like. The new album consists of some past 3 writing from 1988, some newly written last efforts from Keith, and some songs written exclusively by me after Keith’s death. It was so important to me to fulfil our vision for this album.
I believe Keith worked through me. I especially felt him with me when I did the solos. The solos are played by me, but, at the same time, also by him. I would never say I was even close to being the player Keith was, but I believe you can hear his spirit in the sound and in my playing..."
Robert Berry
The 3.2 title (while still retaining The Rules Have Changed sub-title) is in honour of the late Keith Emerson.
The album features song writing contributions and musical ideas from the late keyboard legend (Berry was a band mate of Emerson and Carl Palmer on their melodic rock trio project, 3, which produced the AOR-prog classic …To The Power of Three in 1988) and is also the last musical project Keith Emerson was involved with prior to his untimely and tragic death in 2016.
The origins of 3 came from a plan to form a more melodic, commercially geared band featuring the talents of Keith Emerson, Robert Berry and Carl Palmer; the results were ...To The Power of Three released b Geffen Records in 1988.
The first single, 'Talkin' 'Bout' was a Top 10 Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart success; 3 successfully toured the US in support the album.
Geffen urged the band to go back into the studio to begin work on a second album but Keith Emerson felt uncomfortable with Geffen’s inconsistent promotional strategy that cut the first album's success short, consequently prompting the band to call it quits (several songs were already written for the band’s second album however, a number of which were later released on Robert Berry’s solo album Pilgrimage To a Point).
In late 2015, conversations about a new 3 album started between Robert Berry and Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino. Berry relayed those conversations to Keith Emerson which led to the interest in pursuing the project.
After Keith Emerson’s death in 2016, Robert Berry was left with the keyboardist’s musical ideas for the project.
Old cassette tapes (residual 3 writings from 1988), keyboard parts written over the phone and long discussions between the two musicians about the style and sound of the album led to the framework of what has become 3.2 : The Rules Have Changed.
"Keith and I developed together a vision of what the new album would be like. The new album consists of some past 3 writing from 1988, some newly written last efforts from Keith, and some songs written exclusively by me after Keith’s death. It was so important to me to fulfil our vision for this album.
I believe Keith worked through me. I especially felt him with me when I did the solos. The solos are played by me, but, at the same time, also by him. I would never say I was even close to being the player Keith was, but I believe you can hear his spirit in the sound and in my playing..."
Robert Berry
Robert Berry - 3.2 : The Rules Have Changed. Released on Frontiers Records, August 10th.
Track listing:
One by One; Powerful Man; The Rules Have Changed; Our Bond; What You’re Dreaming Now; Somebody’s Watching; This Letter; Your Mark on The World.
Produced, recorded and mixed by Robert Berry
Songwriters and arrangements: Keith Emerson and Robert Berry
Instrumentation: Robert Berry
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Track listing:
One by One; Powerful Man; The Rules Have Changed; Our Bond; What You’re Dreaming Now; Somebody’s Watching; This Letter; Your Mark on The World.
Produced, recorded and mixed by Robert Berry
Songwriters and arrangements: Keith Emerson and Robert Berry
Instrumentation: Robert Berry
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It’s easy to see, hear and assume the new wave of classic rock is just that; a contemporary variation on the musical themes that made 60s and early 70s blues-rock, later 70s heavy rock, the melodically rocking 80s and grungier, weightier 90s the successes they were.
But there’s rootsier based materials being re-imaginatively mined too.
Providing a serious slice of hillbilly home brewed, double bass, banjo picking, down home, dirty country bluegrass that’s full of contemporary-fied (or should that be contemporary Cajun-fried) Dixie goodness are the Outlaw Orchestra, who have just released The Devil Made Me Do It EP.
It might only be an EP but the songs, including 'Back To Georgia,' sound like the band (a line-up change means these Outlaws are now orchestrated around David Roux - guitars/ lead vocals, Ryan Smith - drums/ percussion/ vocals, Stephen Welch - banjo and Alex Barter - double bass/ vocals) are becoming an even stronger proposition than heard on 2017 debut album Dirty Diesel (although it’s hard to argue with the cheekily titled 'Too Much Willie Nelson' and the barn dancin' bluegrass in overdrive of 'Hangin’ Tree').
Keep on Cajun rockin', boys.
But there’s rootsier based materials being re-imaginatively mined too.
Providing a serious slice of hillbilly home brewed, double bass, banjo picking, down home, dirty country bluegrass that’s full of contemporary-fied (or should that be contemporary Cajun-fried) Dixie goodness are the Outlaw Orchestra, who have just released The Devil Made Me Do It EP.
It might only be an EP but the songs, including 'Back To Georgia,' sound like the band (a line-up change means these Outlaws are now orchestrated around David Roux - guitars/ lead vocals, Ryan Smith - drums/ percussion/ vocals, Stephen Welch - banjo and Alex Barter - double bass/ vocals) are becoming an even stronger proposition than heard on 2017 debut album Dirty Diesel (although it’s hard to argue with the cheekily titled 'Too Much Willie Nelson' and the barn dancin' bluegrass in overdrive of 'Hangin’ Tree').
Keep on Cajun rockin', boys.
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Iconic 80s Canadian rock band Glass Tiger, best known for their 1986 transatlantic hit single 'Don’t Forget Me (When I'm Gone)' (#1 Canada, #2 USA, #29 UK) and other chart successes including 'Someday' and 'My Town' (featuring Rod Stewart), will return to the UK for the first time in twenty-seven years to play two shows.
The band, last in the UK when they supported Roxette on their 1991 nationwide UK tour, play the University of London Union on Friday 19th October and the Rockingham Festival at Nottingham Trent University on Sunday 21st October.
Tickets for the University of London concert can be booked from Eventbrite, Eventim, and Gigantic.
Tickets for Glass Tiger’s Rockingham Festival performance are available from Ticketsource.
To celebrate the band’s longevity, the band released 31 earlier this year.
The fifteen track release is a re-recorded and reimagined compilation of their hits with contributions from a number of guest artists; the album also features two new songs.
Glass Tiger feature original members Alan Frew (lead vocals, guitar), Sam Reid (keyboards), Al Connelly (guitars) and Wayne Parker (bass).
Drummer Chris McNeill joined in 2000 when the band reformed after a seven year hiatus.
Glass Tiger’s Jim Vallance produced debut album, The Thin Red Line (1986), became the fastest selling debut recording in Canadian history and reached quadruple-platinum sales in their home country.
The band also won three Juno Awards that year.
The album and its success led to far wider recognition, arena tours with bands such as Journey and support to Tina Turner on her 1987 UK tour.
Subsequent albums Diamond Sun (1988) and Simple Mission (1991) solidified Glass Tiger’s reputation as Canada’s premier melodic rock and hard pop outfit.
Glass Tiger UK dates:
University of London Union - Friday 19th October
Rockingham Festival, Nottingham - Sunday 21sr October
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The band, last in the UK when they supported Roxette on their 1991 nationwide UK tour, play the University of London Union on Friday 19th October and the Rockingham Festival at Nottingham Trent University on Sunday 21st October.
Tickets for the University of London concert can be booked from Eventbrite, Eventim, and Gigantic.
Tickets for Glass Tiger’s Rockingham Festival performance are available from Ticketsource.
To celebrate the band’s longevity, the band released 31 earlier this year.
The fifteen track release is a re-recorded and reimagined compilation of their hits with contributions from a number of guest artists; the album also features two new songs.
Glass Tiger feature original members Alan Frew (lead vocals, guitar), Sam Reid (keyboards), Al Connelly (guitars) and Wayne Parker (bass).
Drummer Chris McNeill joined in 2000 when the band reformed after a seven year hiatus.
Glass Tiger’s Jim Vallance produced debut album, The Thin Red Line (1986), became the fastest selling debut recording in Canadian history and reached quadruple-platinum sales in their home country.
The band also won three Juno Awards that year.
The album and its success led to far wider recognition, arena tours with bands such as Journey and support to Tina Turner on her 1987 UK tour.
Subsequent albums Diamond Sun (1988) and Simple Mission (1991) solidified Glass Tiger’s reputation as Canada’s premier melodic rock and hard pop outfit.
Glass Tiger UK dates:
University of London Union - Friday 19th October
Rockingham Festival, Nottingham - Sunday 21sr October
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Cambridgeshire-based rock band Hollowstar have released a new single 'All I Gotta Say.'
The single follows on from their Some Things Matter EP, a critically acclaimed six track release that featured 'Lay Down' and the slow build 'Feel the Burn.' The 2017 EP made #13 on the iTunes rock chart.
Hollowstar have been cited as taking inspiration from Blackstone Cherry, Thunder and Slash but as 'All I Gotta Say' emphatically declares, with some serious swagger and a whole dose of sonic energy, they are fast developing their own contemporary rockin’ sound with storytelling lyricism, as front man and bassist Joe Bonson explains:
"The song is about that moment when you reach your end and you come to the realisation that something isn’t right for you. You no longer have the desire to fight for something you recognise as wrong and are happy to walk away and start again. With every end comes a new beginning."
The single follows on from their Some Things Matter EP, a critically acclaimed six track release that featured 'Lay Down' and the slow build 'Feel the Burn.' The 2017 EP made #13 on the iTunes rock chart.
Hollowstar have been cited as taking inspiration from Blackstone Cherry, Thunder and Slash but as 'All I Gotta Say' emphatically declares, with some serious swagger and a whole dose of sonic energy, they are fast developing their own contemporary rockin’ sound with storytelling lyricism, as front man and bassist Joe Bonson explains:
"The song is about that moment when you reach your end and you come to the realisation that something isn’t right for you. You no longer have the desire to fight for something you recognise as wrong and are happy to walk away and start again. With every end comes a new beginning."
To coincide with the new single, Hollowstar have announced a run of tour dates and festival slots throughout the country; they will also join the Graham Bonnet Band for four shows in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Louth and Newcastle, which form part of Bonnet’s UK and Ireland 2018 tour.
Hollowstar 2018 UK dates
(* supporting the Graham Bonnet Band)
Camden Rocks Festival - Saturday 2nd June
Loverocks Music Festival - Friday 15th June
Wildfire Festival - Sunday 24th June
NFest, Needingworth - Saturday 30 June
Daxtonbury Festival - Saturday 7th July
Robin 2, Bilston - Thursday 12th July
Cambridge Rock Festival - Saturday 28th July
*The Assembly, Aberdeen - Thursday 9th August
*Bannermans Bar, Edinburgh - Friday 10th August
*Louth Town Hall - Saturday 11th August
*Trillians, Newcastle - Sunday 12th August
Leicester Rocks Festival - Saturday 18th August
Rock the Lakes Festival - Sunday 19th August
Fire and Forge Festival - Saturday 15th September
The Iron Road, Evesham - Saturday 22nd September
Four Sticks Festival - Saturday 6th October
Kaiser Bill Festival - Friday 12th October
Rock 'N' Roll Charity Xmas Bash - Saturday 8th December
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Hollowstar 2018 UK dates
(* supporting the Graham Bonnet Band)
Camden Rocks Festival - Saturday 2nd June
Loverocks Music Festival - Friday 15th June
Wildfire Festival - Sunday 24th June
NFest, Needingworth - Saturday 30 June
Daxtonbury Festival - Saturday 7th July
Robin 2, Bilston - Thursday 12th July
Cambridge Rock Festival - Saturday 28th July
*The Assembly, Aberdeen - Thursday 9th August
*Bannermans Bar, Edinburgh - Friday 10th August
*Louth Town Hall - Saturday 11th August
*Trillians, Newcastle - Sunday 12th August
Leicester Rocks Festival - Saturday 18th August
Rock the Lakes Festival - Sunday 19th August
Fire and Forge Festival - Saturday 15th September
The Iron Road, Evesham - Saturday 22nd September
Four Sticks Festival - Saturday 6th October
Kaiser Bill Festival - Friday 12th October
Rock 'N' Roll Charity Xmas Bash - Saturday 8th December
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New Breed is the name given to the growing stable of young, exciting, up-and-coming bands signed by Frontiers Music who represent the future of hard rock and metal.
The Italian based Frontiers label is focused on finding and developing new acts from different territories to show the world that rock is indeed far from dead.
Frontiers has put together a sampler that includes tracks from some of the New Breed roster to whet the appetite of fans for these new signings.
This can be downloaded for free from the label website at: http://www.frontiers.it/landing/newbreed/index.php with a CD version also available at merch booths of some New Breed artists on tour.
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The Italian based Frontiers label is focused on finding and developing new acts from different territories to show the world that rock is indeed far from dead.
Frontiers has put together a sampler that includes tracks from some of the New Breed roster to whet the appetite of fans for these new signings.
This can be downloaded for free from the label website at: http://www.frontiers.it/landing/newbreed/index.php with a CD version also available at merch booths of some New Breed artists on tour.
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Johnny Gioeli and Deen Castronovo first played together on the debut album by American hard rock outfit Hardline, Double Eclipse, which was released in 1992.
A quarter of a century later, the two reunited in Italy to commence work on the debut Gioeli-Castronovo album, Set The World On Fire, which will be released on Frontiers Records on the 13th of July.
"It was so great to work with Johnny again. I’ve always loved his voice and it was a pleasure to be a part of this collaboration! It was like we’d never left each other."
Deen Castronovo.
I never left Deen, Deen never left me, so reuniting was easy. Counting our blessings were plentiful, singing together was magical."
Johnny Gioeli
Both men have continued on their successful but separate musical paths since they played and performed together in Hardline – Johnny Gioeli still leads Hardline and also fronts Crush 40 and German guitarist Axel Rudi Pell's band; Deen Castronovo spent time with Ozzy Osbourne before undertaking an extended tour of duty with Journey. He is currently active with The Dead Daisies and Revolution Saints.
Johnny Gioeli’s vocal talents combined with Deen Castronovo’s drumming and his own vocal abilities have made for an excellent, hard melodic rock debut record chock full of uplifting melodies...
A quarter of a century later, the two reunited in Italy to commence work on the debut Gioeli-Castronovo album, Set The World On Fire, which will be released on Frontiers Records on the 13th of July.
"It was so great to work with Johnny again. I’ve always loved his voice and it was a pleasure to be a part of this collaboration! It was like we’d never left each other."
Deen Castronovo.
I never left Deen, Deen never left me, so reuniting was easy. Counting our blessings were plentiful, singing together was magical."
Johnny Gioeli
Both men have continued on their successful but separate musical paths since they played and performed together in Hardline – Johnny Gioeli still leads Hardline and also fronts Crush 40 and German guitarist Axel Rudi Pell's band; Deen Castronovo spent time with Ozzy Osbourne before undertaking an extended tour of duty with Journey. He is currently active with The Dead Daisies and Revolution Saints.
Johnny Gioeli’s vocal talents combined with Deen Castronovo’s drumming and his own vocal abilities have made for an excellent, hard melodic rock debut record chock full of uplifting melodies...
Gioeli-Castronovo – Set The World on Fire
Released on Frontiers Records, 13th July.
Johnny Gioeli – vocals, Deen Castronovo - vocals, drums, Alessandro Del Vecchio - keyboards, backing vocals, Mario Percudani - guitars, Nik Mazzucconi - bass
Track listing:
Set The World On Fire; Through; Who I Am; Fall Like An Angel; It’s All About You; Need You Now; Ride Of Your Life; Mother; Walk With Me; Run For Your Life; Remember Me; Let Me Out.
Produced mixed and mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio
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Released on Frontiers Records, 13th July.
Johnny Gioeli – vocals, Deen Castronovo - vocals, drums, Alessandro Del Vecchio - keyboards, backing vocals, Mario Percudani - guitars, Nik Mazzucconi - bass
Track listing:
Set The World On Fire; Through; Who I Am; Fall Like An Angel; It’s All About You; Need You Now; Ride Of Your Life; Mother; Walk With Me; Run For Your Life; Remember Me; Let Me Out.
Produced mixed and mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio
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Hard rock quintet Burnt Out Wreck, fronted by vocalist, primary songwriter and ex Heavy Pettin’ drummer Gary Moat, have announced their run of shows and festivals (including Ilfracombe Rocks, Monster Fest, the WinterStorm Rock Weekender Jägermeister stage and the Great British Rock and Blues Weekender) for 2018 and early 2019.
The band can be seen across the country at:
22nd - 25th June – Hiraeth… The Longing to be Home, Penmaenau Farm, Builth Wells
7th July - Seven Sins, Swansea
5th August - Drunken Monkey Rock Festival, Upton-upon-Severn, Worcester
1st September - New Cross Inn, London
8th September - The Cavern, London
15th September - Leo's Red Lion, Gravesend, Kent (supporting Bad Touch)
20th September - The Shed, Leicester
5th October - New Cross Inn (with Diamond Head)
3rd November - Ilfracombe Rocks, Ilfracombe
10th November - Monster Fest (featuring The Dead Daisies and Dan Reed Network)
11th November - Pontins, Southport
13th November - Robin 2 (with Pat McManus Band)
17th November - New Cross Inn, London (with Pure DC)
24th November – Jägermeister Stage, WinterStorm Rock Weekender, Troon, South Ayrshire
14th December - Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
15th December - Stereo Bar, Glasgow
16th December - Church, Dundee
Confirmed for 2019
18th January - Great British Rock and Blues Festival, Skegness
15th February - Hard Rock Café, Glasgow
16th February - Bannermans, Edinburgh
Swallow, The debut album from Burnt Out Wreck, is a huge slice of full on, punchy, guitar-led classic hard rock. Released on TRHRC through Cherry Red Records.
The album was co-produced by Gary Moat and Steve Rispin (Asia, Inglorious) and mastered by Pete Maher (U2, The Killers, Jack White, Rolling Stones).
"Burnt Out Wreck and Swallow unashamedly take their major influences and lead from the High Voltage rock and roll that used to be the order of the day.
But both band and album sit firmly and squarely in the present; they deliver a brand of unpretentious and honest rock and roll that’s untouched by political correctness, what the musical flavour of the month is or whoever the latest classic rock band to become a partially reformed or re-imagined version of itself might be."
– FabricationsHQ
Burnt Out Wreck:
Gary Moat - vocals, rhythm guitar, Adrian Dunn - guitar, backing vocals, Alex Carmichael - bass, backing vocals, Miles Goodman, guitar, Paul Gray - drums
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The band can be seen across the country at:
22nd - 25th June – Hiraeth… The Longing to be Home, Penmaenau Farm, Builth Wells
7th July - Seven Sins, Swansea
5th August - Drunken Monkey Rock Festival, Upton-upon-Severn, Worcester
1st September - New Cross Inn, London
8th September - The Cavern, London
15th September - Leo's Red Lion, Gravesend, Kent (supporting Bad Touch)
20th September - The Shed, Leicester
5th October - New Cross Inn (with Diamond Head)
3rd November - Ilfracombe Rocks, Ilfracombe
10th November - Monster Fest (featuring The Dead Daisies and Dan Reed Network)
11th November - Pontins, Southport
13th November - Robin 2 (with Pat McManus Band)
17th November - New Cross Inn, London (with Pure DC)
24th November – Jägermeister Stage, WinterStorm Rock Weekender, Troon, South Ayrshire
14th December - Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
15th December - Stereo Bar, Glasgow
16th December - Church, Dundee
Confirmed for 2019
18th January - Great British Rock and Blues Festival, Skegness
15th February - Hard Rock Café, Glasgow
16th February - Bannermans, Edinburgh
Swallow, The debut album from Burnt Out Wreck, is a huge slice of full on, punchy, guitar-led classic hard rock. Released on TRHRC through Cherry Red Records.
The album was co-produced by Gary Moat and Steve Rispin (Asia, Inglorious) and mastered by Pete Maher (U2, The Killers, Jack White, Rolling Stones).
"Burnt Out Wreck and Swallow unashamedly take their major influences and lead from the High Voltage rock and roll that used to be the order of the day.
But both band and album sit firmly and squarely in the present; they deliver a brand of unpretentious and honest rock and roll that’s untouched by political correctness, what the musical flavour of the month is or whoever the latest classic rock band to become a partially reformed or re-imagined version of itself might be."
– FabricationsHQ
Burnt Out Wreck:
Gary Moat - vocals, rhythm guitar, Adrian Dunn - guitar, backing vocals, Alex Carmichael - bass, backing vocals, Miles Goodman, guitar, Paul Gray - drums
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Legendary Mountain drummer, songwriter, singer and raconteur Corky Laing will return to the UK this October to play seven shows including headline performances at both the Whitby and Clitheroe Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festivals (see article on the festival further down).
The UK shows double as part of Corky Laing’s 70th Birthday Celebration Tour and a celebration of the classic Mountain songs as they were originally written and heard on the original recordings (a number of West, Bruce & Laing tunes will also feature).
For the performances Corky Laing will be accompanied by Chris Shutters (guitar, vocals & flute), Mark Mikel (bass, vocals & keyboards) and Phil Baker (guitar, vocals and keyboards).
Although best known as a long-time member of the pioneering American hard rock band Mountain and as part of the noted power trio West, Bruce & Laing, the ever active musician continues to play both one man shows and gigs around the world with his band; Corky Laing also lectures at Universities and has recently completed his memoirs (to be released soon as Letters to Sarah).
Corky Laing, who turned 70 this January, says of his life "I never expected to make it here, but regardless, here I am and I plan on keeping going! I’m lucky to be alive and so very lucky to have all these wonderful people collaborating with me on various projects; it seems like there’s always new stuff to get excited about. If nothing else, I still get the kicks just rehearsing daily on my kit, and when I’m performing to audiences together with the brilliant musicians sharing the stage with me, well, that’s when it all comes together.
It doesn’t matter whether I’m playing for dozens, hundreds or thousands of people, it’s always exhilarating. Looking forward to seeing you at the gigs!"
The UK shows double as part of Corky Laing’s 70th Birthday Celebration Tour and a celebration of the classic Mountain songs as they were originally written and heard on the original recordings (a number of West, Bruce & Laing tunes will also feature).
For the performances Corky Laing will be accompanied by Chris Shutters (guitar, vocals & flute), Mark Mikel (bass, vocals & keyboards) and Phil Baker (guitar, vocals and keyboards).
Although best known as a long-time member of the pioneering American hard rock band Mountain and as part of the noted power trio West, Bruce & Laing, the ever active musician continues to play both one man shows and gigs around the world with his band; Corky Laing also lectures at Universities and has recently completed his memoirs (to be released soon as Letters to Sarah).
Corky Laing, who turned 70 this January, says of his life "I never expected to make it here, but regardless, here I am and I plan on keeping going! I’m lucky to be alive and so very lucky to have all these wonderful people collaborating with me on various projects; it seems like there’s always new stuff to get excited about. If nothing else, I still get the kicks just rehearsing daily on my kit, and when I’m performing to audiences together with the brilliant musicians sharing the stage with me, well, that’s when it all comes together.
It doesn’t matter whether I’m playing for dozens, hundreds or thousands of people, it’s always exhilarating. Looking forward to seeing you at the gigs!"
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Fresh off the road with Michael Schenker Fest (and part of the recent Michael Schenker Fest studio album Resurrection) and on the back of his critically acclaimed 2016 Graham Bonnet Band album The Book, the legendary singer is back with his second band offering Meanwhile, Back In The Garage.
The album, which will be released on Frontiers Records on the 13th of July, features Joey Tafolla on guitars (all songs except 'Livin' In Suspicion,' which features new member Kurt James), Beth-Ami Heavenstone (bass) Jimmy Waldo (keyboards) and Mark Benquechea (drums).
Meanwhile, Back In The Garage contains thirteen new songs with Bonnet laying down his distinct and inimitable voice over a collection of tunes that are full of great hooks and rocking melodies.
As a featured bonus the album includes a live DVD captured Live From Daryl’s House at a performance recorded earlier this year.
"This is the most important album I have made in 35 years. I think fans of the classic Alcatrazz sound will love this record. The first single is about any young band starting today, which is like it was back when I began.
As the lyric says 'Take a number, It’s a hell of a line!' I have had a fantastic career and been very fortunate to play with some great musicians. I hope there is a lot more touring and recording to come!"
Graham Bonnet
The album, which will be released on Frontiers Records on the 13th of July, features Joey Tafolla on guitars (all songs except 'Livin' In Suspicion,' which features new member Kurt James), Beth-Ami Heavenstone (bass) Jimmy Waldo (keyboards) and Mark Benquechea (drums).
Meanwhile, Back In The Garage contains thirteen new songs with Bonnet laying down his distinct and inimitable voice over a collection of tunes that are full of great hooks and rocking melodies.
As a featured bonus the album includes a live DVD captured Live From Daryl’s House at a performance recorded earlier this year.
"This is the most important album I have made in 35 years. I think fans of the classic Alcatrazz sound will love this record. The first single is about any young band starting today, which is like it was back when I began.
As the lyric says 'Take a number, It’s a hell of a line!' I have had a fantastic career and been very fortunate to play with some great musicians. I hope there is a lot more touring and recording to come!"
Graham Bonnet
Graham Bonnet – Meanwhile Back in the Garage
Frontiers Music srl; 13th July 2018
Track listing:
CD (Meanwhile, Back in the Garage):
Meanwhile, Back In The Garage; The Hotel; Livin’ In Suspicion; Incest Outcest U.S.A.; Long Island Tea; The House; Sea Of Trees; Man On The Corner; We Don’t Need Another Hero; America… Where Have You Gone?; Heading Toward The Light; Past Lives; The Crying Chair; Starcarr Lane (Live From Daryl’s House 2018)
DVD (Live From Daryl’s House 2018):
Night Of The Shooting Star (Intro); Too Young To Die, Too Drunk To Live; All Night Long; Night Games; California Air; God Blessed Video; Stand In Line; Island In The Sun; Desert Song; Starcarr Lane; Jet To Jet; S.O.S.; Into The Night; Samurai; Skyfire; Since You Been Gone; Assault Attack; Eyes Of The World; Hiroshima Mon Amour; Lost In Hollywood
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Frontiers Music srl; 13th July 2018
Track listing:
CD (Meanwhile, Back in the Garage):
Meanwhile, Back In The Garage; The Hotel; Livin’ In Suspicion; Incest Outcest U.S.A.; Long Island Tea; The House; Sea Of Trees; Man On The Corner; We Don’t Need Another Hero; America… Where Have You Gone?; Heading Toward The Light; Past Lives; The Crying Chair; Starcarr Lane (Live From Daryl’s House 2018)
DVD (Live From Daryl’s House 2018):
Night Of The Shooting Star (Intro); Too Young To Die, Too Drunk To Live; All Night Long; Night Games; California Air; God Blessed Video; Stand In Line; Island In The Sun; Desert Song; Starcarr Lane; Jet To Jet; S.O.S.; Into The Night; Samurai; Skyfire; Since You Been Gone; Assault Attack; Eyes Of The World; Hiroshima Mon Amour; Lost In Hollywood
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Jim Lea, famous as one quarter of Slade in their original line-up hay-day and whose songwriting partnership with Noddy Holder launched the band to superstardom, recently releases a new single, 'Lost In Space.'
A different version of 'Lost In Space' (the single version is a Radio Edit) will feature on Lea’s forthcoming Lost In Space EP, released on the 22nd of June.
The 6 track EP will be available as both a digital download and physical CD; you can pre-order the CD copy now at the discounted price of £7.99 here: https://www.wienerworld.com/jim-lea-lost-in-space.html
The EP will be Jim Lea’s first multiple tracks release since his debut, and thus far only, solo album Therapy was released in 2007.
The album was rereleased in 2016 on the Wienerworld Label with additional tracks. one of which, 'Am I the Greatest Now?' was issued as a single.
A further single, 'All Coming Back to Me Now,' was released in 2017.
"Lost in Space was written deliberately as a pop song. Of all the songs I have come up with, this is one of my favourites. The ideas portrayed in the song are of someone spending their life living in an inner world, virtually oblivious to normal life. Some might say I have unwittingly written about myself!"
Jim Lea
Jim Lea – Lost in Space EP. Wienerworld Label. 22nd June 2018.
1. Lost In Space 2. What In The World 3. Megadrive 4. Pure Power 5. Going Back To Birmingham 6. Through The Fire
The physical EP will be available to purchase online from Wienerworld and Amazon etc.
The digital EP will be available for download from iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, etc.
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A different version of 'Lost In Space' (the single version is a Radio Edit) will feature on Lea’s forthcoming Lost In Space EP, released on the 22nd of June.
The 6 track EP will be available as both a digital download and physical CD; you can pre-order the CD copy now at the discounted price of £7.99 here: https://www.wienerworld.com/jim-lea-lost-in-space.html
The EP will be Jim Lea’s first multiple tracks release since his debut, and thus far only, solo album Therapy was released in 2007.
The album was rereleased in 2016 on the Wienerworld Label with additional tracks. one of which, 'Am I the Greatest Now?' was issued as a single.
A further single, 'All Coming Back to Me Now,' was released in 2017.
"Lost in Space was written deliberately as a pop song. Of all the songs I have come up with, this is one of my favourites. The ideas portrayed in the song are of someone spending their life living in an inner world, virtually oblivious to normal life. Some might say I have unwittingly written about myself!"
Jim Lea
Jim Lea – Lost in Space EP. Wienerworld Label. 22nd June 2018.
1. Lost In Space 2. What In The World 3. Megadrive 4. Pure Power 5. Going Back To Birmingham 6. Through The Fire
The physical EP will be available to purchase online from Wienerworld and Amazon etc.
The digital EP will be available for download from iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, etc.
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Soild Entertainments list of high-quality summer blues-rock based festivals for 2018 continues with the announcement of the back-to-back Whitby & Clitheroe Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festivals.
With Corky Laing headlining and five other attention grabbing bands on the bill (each delivering their brand of blues rock with their own identities and influences, from southern gothic and progressive blues to r&b and shades of soul-funk), blues rock fans in and around Northern England should be marking their diaries for either the 13th or 14th of October and the Whitby Pavilion or The Grand in Clitheroe as the places to be.
Corky Laing, the legendary Mountain drummer, songwriter, singer and raconteur from Montreal, will be playing seven shows in the UK with his band (Chris Shutters - guitar, vocals, flute; Mark Mikel - bass, vocals, keyboards; Phil Baker - guitar, vocals, keyboards) including the headline slots at the Whitby & Clitheroe festivals.
Mountain forged a style and sound that made them one of the rock bands of the 70s.
Driven by the powerhouse drumming of Corky Liang and fronted by the great Leslie West, Mountain produced many a classic including 'Mississippi Queen,' 'Nantucket Sleighride' and their cover of the Pete Brown - Jack Bruce penned 'Theme from an Imaginary Western.'
Although Corky Liang is best known as a long-time member of Mountain and as part of the impressive power trio West, Bruce & Laing, during the past few years he has been living, and thriving, in the fast lane.
In between his one-man shows, playing with his band, lecturing at Universities around the world, creating Playing God: The Rock Opera and doing some production work, Laing has found time to complete his memoirs, which will be released as a book soon, titled Letters to Sarah.
For this tour Corky Laing and his band will be playing the classic Mountain songs as they were originally written and heard on the original recordings; a number of West, Bruce & Laing tunes will also feature.
Also performing at Whitby & Clitheroe:
Chantel McGregor – delivering songs that salutes contemporary rock while displaying her gradual transition from conventional blues to a harder, bigger and bolder rock sound with progressive and southern gothic influences, as delivered to great effect on her 2015 album, Lose Control.
Stevie Nimmo Trio – enjoying making music now as much as at any point throughout his twenty years in the business, Stevie Nimmo, one half of the Nimmo Brothers with younger sibling Alan, loves to play live.
His multi-faceted blues rock album Sky Won’t Fall was critically acclaimed upon its 2016 release.
Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion – this acclaimed outfit don’t just have the chemistry (excellent new album The Blues and I Should Have a Party is the band’s fifth studio album in six years and seventh overall); their vibrant R&B swing stylings (incorporating jazz, pop and trad. blues) also deliver one of the coolest and original sounds on the blues circuit, courtesy of a vocal and guitar led song writing tandem and a groove driven organ-drums rhythm section.
Catfish – British Blues Award winners have carved a reputation as an excellent live band, bolstered by the dovetailing guitar-keyboard sound as delivered by father and son team Paul Long (keyboards, guitars) and Matt Long (vocals guitars).
|ith latest offering, 2017’s Broken Man, the band have produced a thoroughly entertaining and diversified album (traditional blues meets contemporary meets progressive) that showcases an outstanding band.
Southbound – with inspirations drawing from blues, rock, jazz, funk and soul, the band provide a highly distinctive take on British Blues, with serious groove.
The Whitby & Clitheroe Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festivals 2018
Saturday 13th October (Whitby) & Sunday 14th October (Clitheroe).
Early Bird tickets are only £24.00 and can be purchased by calling 01472 349 222 or head online to http://www.solidentertainments.com/presents.htm to see all the Solid Entertainments events.
Times (both events): Doors open at 1.30pm; Music starts at 2.00pm; Events end at 10.00 pm.
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With Corky Laing headlining and five other attention grabbing bands on the bill (each delivering their brand of blues rock with their own identities and influences, from southern gothic and progressive blues to r&b and shades of soul-funk), blues rock fans in and around Northern England should be marking their diaries for either the 13th or 14th of October and the Whitby Pavilion or The Grand in Clitheroe as the places to be.
Corky Laing, the legendary Mountain drummer, songwriter, singer and raconteur from Montreal, will be playing seven shows in the UK with his band (Chris Shutters - guitar, vocals, flute; Mark Mikel - bass, vocals, keyboards; Phil Baker - guitar, vocals, keyboards) including the headline slots at the Whitby & Clitheroe festivals.
Mountain forged a style and sound that made them one of the rock bands of the 70s.
Driven by the powerhouse drumming of Corky Liang and fronted by the great Leslie West, Mountain produced many a classic including 'Mississippi Queen,' 'Nantucket Sleighride' and their cover of the Pete Brown - Jack Bruce penned 'Theme from an Imaginary Western.'
Although Corky Liang is best known as a long-time member of Mountain and as part of the impressive power trio West, Bruce & Laing, during the past few years he has been living, and thriving, in the fast lane.
In between his one-man shows, playing with his band, lecturing at Universities around the world, creating Playing God: The Rock Opera and doing some production work, Laing has found time to complete his memoirs, which will be released as a book soon, titled Letters to Sarah.
For this tour Corky Laing and his band will be playing the classic Mountain songs as they were originally written and heard on the original recordings; a number of West, Bruce & Laing tunes will also feature.
Also performing at Whitby & Clitheroe:
Chantel McGregor – delivering songs that salutes contemporary rock while displaying her gradual transition from conventional blues to a harder, bigger and bolder rock sound with progressive and southern gothic influences, as delivered to great effect on her 2015 album, Lose Control.
Stevie Nimmo Trio – enjoying making music now as much as at any point throughout his twenty years in the business, Stevie Nimmo, one half of the Nimmo Brothers with younger sibling Alan, loves to play live.
His multi-faceted blues rock album Sky Won’t Fall was critically acclaimed upon its 2016 release.
Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion – this acclaimed outfit don’t just have the chemistry (excellent new album The Blues and I Should Have a Party is the band’s fifth studio album in six years and seventh overall); their vibrant R&B swing stylings (incorporating jazz, pop and trad. blues) also deliver one of the coolest and original sounds on the blues circuit, courtesy of a vocal and guitar led song writing tandem and a groove driven organ-drums rhythm section.
Catfish – British Blues Award winners have carved a reputation as an excellent live band, bolstered by the dovetailing guitar-keyboard sound as delivered by father and son team Paul Long (keyboards, guitars) and Matt Long (vocals guitars).
|ith latest offering, 2017’s Broken Man, the band have produced a thoroughly entertaining and diversified album (traditional blues meets contemporary meets progressive) that showcases an outstanding band.
Southbound – with inspirations drawing from blues, rock, jazz, funk and soul, the band provide a highly distinctive take on British Blues, with serious groove.
The Whitby & Clitheroe Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festivals 2018
Saturday 13th October (Whitby) & Sunday 14th October (Clitheroe).
Early Bird tickets are only £24.00 and can be purchased by calling 01472 349 222 or head online to http://www.solidentertainments.com/presents.htm to see all the Solid Entertainments events.
Times (both events): Doors open at 1.30pm; Music starts at 2.00pm; Events end at 10.00 pm.
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Solid Entertainments have announced an eye and ear catching three day event in Bude.
The Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival will take place at Penstowe Manor Resort across the Friday 9th, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th of November.
Traditionally held in Ilfracombe, the 2018 edition has been relocated 17 miles down the road across the border into North Cornwall to Penstowe Manor.
To celebrate the new venue and location, Solid Entertainments are presenting one of their most ambitious events and certainly the largest as regards their previous festivals held in the region.
With a mix of noted classic rock and blues rock names and from the UK and around the world, the three day event – featuring Focus, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado and Wishbone Ash as headliners - will be one not to miss for blues and rock fans in the South West of England.
Friday 9th November:
Focus – Aynsley Lister – John Verity Band – Storm Warning – Federal Charm – Chris King Robinson
With their unique brand of progressive primarily instrumental rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the '70s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch pop-rock exports.
Fronted by founding member, keyboardist and flautist Thijs Van Leer, and best known for their hits 'Hocus Pocus,' 'House of The King' and 'Sylvia,' as well as a number of critically acclaimed albums including Moving Waves, Focus 3 and Hamburger Concerto, the iconic Dutch music masters returned with the acclaimed Focus X in 2012 followed by Golden Oldies, which features newly recorded versions of some of their most popular songs from their classic back catalogue.
Saturday 10th November:
Thorbjørn Risager & the Black Tornado - Grainne Duffy – Steve Hill – The Luke Doherty Band - Connor Selby Band - Born Healer
Now in their fourteenth year, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have opened new doors in many new territories; and with all the hard work they put into their artistry, they surely deserve it.
The Danish outfit have become one of the most successful blues & roots bands on the European continent, so it’s no surprise when they sell out most venues when they return to play for only the second time.
Sunday 11th November:
Wishbone Ash – Chantel McGregor - Erja Lyytinen – Billy Walton Band - Lightnin' Willie & The Poor Boys – The Zoe Green Band
Wishbone Ash remain one of the most enduring and popular bands in British Rock.
With millions of albums sold, their iconic twin-guitar sound inspired bands from the classic rock of Thin Lizzy to the iconic metal of Iron Maiden; the band have written and delivered countless classic tracks including 'The King Will Come,' 'Throw Down The Sword' and 'Blowin’ Free.'
Combining old songs with the new, Wishbone Ash still deliver quality live sets, one year short of fifty on the road.
The Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival will take place at Penstowe Manor Resort across the Friday 9th, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th of November.
Traditionally held in Ilfracombe, the 2018 edition has been relocated 17 miles down the road across the border into North Cornwall to Penstowe Manor.
To celebrate the new venue and location, Solid Entertainments are presenting one of their most ambitious events and certainly the largest as regards their previous festivals held in the region.
With a mix of noted classic rock and blues rock names and from the UK and around the world, the three day event – featuring Focus, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado and Wishbone Ash as headliners - will be one not to miss for blues and rock fans in the South West of England.
Friday 9th November:
Focus – Aynsley Lister – John Verity Band – Storm Warning – Federal Charm – Chris King Robinson
With their unique brand of progressive primarily instrumental rock, Focus manifested themselves at the start of the '70s as the most successful and appreciated of all the Dutch pop-rock exports.
Fronted by founding member, keyboardist and flautist Thijs Van Leer, and best known for their hits 'Hocus Pocus,' 'House of The King' and 'Sylvia,' as well as a number of critically acclaimed albums including Moving Waves, Focus 3 and Hamburger Concerto, the iconic Dutch music masters returned with the acclaimed Focus X in 2012 followed by Golden Oldies, which features newly recorded versions of some of their most popular songs from their classic back catalogue.
Saturday 10th November:
Thorbjørn Risager & the Black Tornado - Grainne Duffy – Steve Hill – The Luke Doherty Band - Connor Selby Band - Born Healer
Now in their fourteenth year, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have opened new doors in many new territories; and with all the hard work they put into their artistry, they surely deserve it.
The Danish outfit have become one of the most successful blues & roots bands on the European continent, so it’s no surprise when they sell out most venues when they return to play for only the second time.
Sunday 11th November:
Wishbone Ash – Chantel McGregor - Erja Lyytinen – Billy Walton Band - Lightnin' Willie & The Poor Boys – The Zoe Green Band
Wishbone Ash remain one of the most enduring and popular bands in British Rock.
With millions of albums sold, their iconic twin-guitar sound inspired bands from the classic rock of Thin Lizzy to the iconic metal of Iron Maiden; the band have written and delivered countless classic tracks including 'The King Will Come,' 'Throw Down The Sword' and 'Blowin’ Free.'
Combining old songs with the new, Wishbone Ash still deliver quality live sets, one year short of fifty on the road.
Situated in a beautiful part of the country and set in private grounds, the Penstowe Manor holiday resort has a wide range of self-catering accommodation with facilities that include two bars, a restaurant (and a take-away), indoor heated swimming pool, on site gymnasium, coffee shop and an amusement room.
Additionally, car parking is free for the weekend.
The festival itself will also have a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available and a varied food menu.
Situated close to the Hartland Cornwall Heritage Coast and a stone’s throw from the historic village of Kilkhampton, Penstowe Park is ideally located for exploring the many delights of North Cornwall.
The Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival - 9th, 10th and 11th November 2018
Penstowe Manor Resort, Penstowe Road, Kilkhampton, Bude, North Cornwall EX23 9QY
Advance Ticket of £129 per person based on 4, 5 or 6 persons sharing 2 or 3 bedroom apartment
Advance Ticket of £139 per person based on 3 persons sharing 2 bedroom apartment
Advance Ticket of £149 per person based on 2 persons sharing 1 or 2 bedroom apartment
Above prices Include 3 Nights Self Catering Accommodation and 3 Day Festival Ticket
PLEASE NOTE Advance Single Tickets (own apartment) have now sold out
Advance Ticket of £85 per person 3 day festival ticket (accommodation NOT included)
£60 for 3 nights of Motor Home or Caravan serviced pitches are now available
Tickets can be purchased at 01472 349 222 and online at: http://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/bude/tickets.html
To find out more about line up and the festival in general, please visit: http://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/bude/index.html
Doors open at 1.30 p.m., Music starts at 2.00 p.m. Festival ends at 11.30 p.m. each day.
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Additionally, car parking is free for the weekend.
The festival itself will also have a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available and a varied food menu.
Situated close to the Hartland Cornwall Heritage Coast and a stone’s throw from the historic village of Kilkhampton, Penstowe Park is ideally located for exploring the many delights of North Cornwall.
The Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival - 9th, 10th and 11th November 2018
Penstowe Manor Resort, Penstowe Road, Kilkhampton, Bude, North Cornwall EX23 9QY
Advance Ticket of £129 per person based on 4, 5 or 6 persons sharing 2 or 3 bedroom apartment
Advance Ticket of £139 per person based on 3 persons sharing 2 bedroom apartment
Advance Ticket of £149 per person based on 2 persons sharing 1 or 2 bedroom apartment
Above prices Include 3 Nights Self Catering Accommodation and 3 Day Festival Ticket
PLEASE NOTE Advance Single Tickets (own apartment) have now sold out
Advance Ticket of £85 per person 3 day festival ticket (accommodation NOT included)
£60 for 3 nights of Motor Home or Caravan serviced pitches are now available
Tickets can be purchased at 01472 349 222 and online at: http://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/bude/tickets.html
To find out more about line up and the festival in general, please visit: http://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/bude/index.html
Doors open at 1.30 p.m., Music starts at 2.00 p.m. Festival ends at 11.30 p.m. each day.
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Canadian entertainer and country influenced singer Rober Larrabee has just written and recorded a song that is not just close to his heart, it was written from, and through, it.
'Sticks Out for Humboldt,' a tribute to the April 6th bus crash that killed sixteen people affiliated with the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League team the Humboldt Broncos, was doubly affecting for Larrabee as he has lost his own son at only 16 years of age.
The Vancouver born entertainer, whose 2013 album Middle of Something was the first true country album to be featured on FabricationsHQ, says: "I saw the Humboldt bus crash story and it affected me deeply; then when I saw all the fund raising, like Jerseys for Humboldt, I knew I had to do something.
This song came deep from within me I hope this Humboldt Broncos tribute will help even if in a small way. I see allot of Humboldt Broncos tributes on line and it makes me feel good to see the outpouring of love for the ‘Humboldt Strong’ "
'Sticks Out for Humboldt,' a tribute to the April 6th bus crash that killed sixteen people affiliated with the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League team the Humboldt Broncos, was doubly affecting for Larrabee as he has lost his own son at only 16 years of age.
The Vancouver born entertainer, whose 2013 album Middle of Something was the first true country album to be featured on FabricationsHQ, says: "I saw the Humboldt bus crash story and it affected me deeply; then when I saw all the fund raising, like Jerseys for Humboldt, I knew I had to do something.
This song came deep from within me I hope this Humboldt Broncos tribute will help even if in a small way. I see allot of Humboldt Broncos tributes on line and it makes me feel good to see the outpouring of love for the ‘Humboldt Strong’ "
The Humboldt bus crash, a collision with a semi-truck, happened as the team were heading to play their fifth SJHL semi-final game with the Nipawin Hawks.
It resulted in sixteen fatalities (ten players, two coaches, a statistician, a broadcaster, the bus driver and an athletic therapist). The remaining passengers, thirteen players, all received injuries, most of them serious.
Canadian musician Tom Cochrane has re-released his song 'Big League' as a tribute to the Humboldt Broncos.
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It resulted in sixteen fatalities (ten players, two coaches, a statistician, a broadcaster, the bus driver and an athletic therapist). The remaining passengers, thirteen players, all received injuries, most of them serious.
Canadian musician Tom Cochrane has re-released his song 'Big League' as a tribute to the Humboldt Broncos.
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It's a testament to the hard work and tireless non-profit making efforts of the Darvel Music Company (effectively a continuation of what was the Darvel Music Festival, a successful sometimes multiple weekend event that ran in the small Ayrshire town for fifteen years) that such high quality shows are still being put on at the Town Hall along with smaller, but no less entertaining gigs at the Darvel Bowling Club (which help fund the larger shows) also part of the Darvel Music Company bill.
Following the successful King King show which took place on the 21st of April, the next Darvel Music Company Town Hall event is a welcome return to Darvel, on August 25th, for Texan blues-soul-funk musician Hamilton Loomis and his band.
Loomis, a regular fixture at the Darvel Music Festival and who performed in Darvel last year while promoting his latest album Basics (his most personal and stripped back work to date), is a must-see artist who puts the capital E in Entertainment.
Following the successful King King show which took place on the 21st of April, the next Darvel Music Company Town Hall event is a welcome return to Darvel, on August 25th, for Texan blues-soul-funk musician Hamilton Loomis and his band.
Loomis, a regular fixture at the Darvel Music Festival and who performed in Darvel last year while promoting his latest album Basics (his most personal and stripped back work to date), is a must-see artist who puts the capital E in Entertainment.
The August 25th show is a triple bill event.
Legendary British producer and singer Mike Vernon – who is having so much fun with his good time crooner-swing band The Mighty Combo it should be illegal – will ably support the Hamilton Loomis Band in the soul-funk company of Fife based eight-piece, Lights Out By Nine.
Tickets for the concert are £22.50, unless you live in the Irvine Valley – if you are local to the area you can visit any of the local sales outlets and get your ticket for £20 (please present evidence of your address when purchasing).
All ticket outlet information can be located at: www.darvelmusiccompany.com
The Darvel Music Company organisers would like to thank all of their current 2018 sponsors and advertisers.
Special thanks to the Miss Bessie C. Roxburgh Bequest, Skipton Building Society, Grassroots Giving Scheme, Tesco Bags for Help, Scot-Mid, West Siphonics Limited, The Loudoun Valley Trust and the Darvel Improvement Group for their generous financial support.
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Legendary British producer and singer Mike Vernon – who is having so much fun with his good time crooner-swing band The Mighty Combo it should be illegal – will ably support the Hamilton Loomis Band in the soul-funk company of Fife based eight-piece, Lights Out By Nine.
Tickets for the concert are £22.50, unless you live in the Irvine Valley – if you are local to the area you can visit any of the local sales outlets and get your ticket for £20 (please present evidence of your address when purchasing).
All ticket outlet information can be located at: www.darvelmusiccompany.com
The Darvel Music Company organisers would like to thank all of their current 2018 sponsors and advertisers.
Special thanks to the Miss Bessie C. Roxburgh Bequest, Skipton Building Society, Grassroots Giving Scheme, Tesco Bags for Help, Scot-Mid, West Siphonics Limited, The Loudoun Valley Trust and the Darvel Improvement Group for their generous financial support.
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The Cathedral City of Lincoln won’t be so much ringing to the bells of its Cathedral on a particular day in July as echoing to the sounds of folk and roots music when Solid Entertainments bring the Lincoln Folk, Roots & World Music Festival back to the county town.
Following the great success of last year’s Lincoln Folk, Roots & World Music Festival, the 2018 line-up had to equal, if not better, the 2017 event – and with Jacqui McShee's Pentangle headlining, special guest Julie Felix also performing and four other, very different and striking acts on the 14th July bill, this will be a folk, roots and world music experience not to miss.
Jacqui McShee grew up listening to music played on her parents’ gramophone – from Fats Waller, Ella Fitzgerald and big bands through to popular classics.
Jacqui however showed little interest in music until she heard Miles Davis and John Coltrane at CND friends, which subsequently became the most important thing in her life – on CND marches Jacqui would lead the singing with her sister Pam and did many gigs locally, in South East London, for charities such as War On Want and Oxfam.
Upon co-founding the folk-rock band Pentangle in 1968, Jacqui’s beautiful crystal-clear vocals became the standard for female British folk.
Pentangle became legendary on the folk-rock scene with virtuoso guitarists John Renbourn and Bert Jansch, Danny Thompson (double bass) and Terry Cox (drums); the original Pentangle expanded the frontiers of folk in the late 60s and early 70s while Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle have continued the concept of making ground-breaking music.
In 1964 Julie Felix arrived in England after leaving California and became the first solo folk artist to be signed to a major British record company when she signed with Decca.
In 1966 Julie became the resident singer on the popular TV programme The Frost Report and quickly became a household name. She went on to appear in her own TV series on BBC1 and BBC2 and recorded hit singles on Mickey Most’s RAK label.
Julie, who was invited to Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla in 2013, will be celebrating her 80th birthday one month before her appearance at the festival.
Lincoln Folk, Roots & Blues Festival - full line-up:
Jacqui McShee's Pentangle (featuring saxophonist Gary Foote, bassist & guitarist Alan Thompson, drummer & percussionist Gerry Conway and keyboardist Spencer Cozens).
Julie Felix – with over fifty years in the music world, Julie will celebrate her 80th birthday in 2018 with a special concert at the Charing Cross Theatre in London.
Blair Dunlop – in only a short four year career, Blair Dunlop is already setting himself apart from his peers by way of his lyrical and musical maturity.
Galley Beggar – a sound that incorporates all manner of unexpected elements, while always celebrating the mischievous spirit of folk music across the centuries.
Said The Maiden – a beautiful blend of instrumentation and female vocals from three friends who discovered a mutual love of folk music when they reunited several years after spending their school years together in Hertfordshire.
The Beaubowbelles – combining the swing, wit and class of a vintage vocal harmony group with the sounds of a contemporary English folk band.
Lincoln Folk, Roots & World Music Festival
Saturday 14th July
Lincoln Alive, Lincoln
Early Bird Tickets are only £23.00 and to book, please call 01472 349 222 or go online at: http://www.lincolnfolkfestival.co.uk/tickets.html
To find out more about the line-ups and the festival in general, please visit: http://www.lincolnfolkfestival.co.uk/index.html
Doors open at 1.30 pm; music starts at 2.00 pm; festival ends at 10.00 pm.
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Jacqui McShee grew up listening to music played on her parents’ gramophone – from Fats Waller, Ella Fitzgerald and big bands through to popular classics.
Jacqui however showed little interest in music until she heard Miles Davis and John Coltrane at CND friends, which subsequently became the most important thing in her life – on CND marches Jacqui would lead the singing with her sister Pam and did many gigs locally, in South East London, for charities such as War On Want and Oxfam.
Upon co-founding the folk-rock band Pentangle in 1968, Jacqui’s beautiful crystal-clear vocals became the standard for female British folk.
Pentangle became legendary on the folk-rock scene with virtuoso guitarists John Renbourn and Bert Jansch, Danny Thompson (double bass) and Terry Cox (drums); the original Pentangle expanded the frontiers of folk in the late 60s and early 70s while Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle have continued the concept of making ground-breaking music.
In 1964 Julie Felix arrived in England after leaving California and became the first solo folk artist to be signed to a major British record company when she signed with Decca.
In 1966 Julie became the resident singer on the popular TV programme The Frost Report and quickly became a household name. She went on to appear in her own TV series on BBC1 and BBC2 and recorded hit singles on Mickey Most’s RAK label.
Julie, who was invited to Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla in 2013, will be celebrating her 80th birthday one month before her appearance at the festival.
Lincoln Folk, Roots & Blues Festival - full line-up:
Jacqui McShee's Pentangle (featuring saxophonist Gary Foote, bassist & guitarist Alan Thompson, drummer & percussionist Gerry Conway and keyboardist Spencer Cozens).
Julie Felix – with over fifty years in the music world, Julie will celebrate her 80th birthday in 2018 with a special concert at the Charing Cross Theatre in London.
Blair Dunlop – in only a short four year career, Blair Dunlop is already setting himself apart from his peers by way of his lyrical and musical maturity.
Galley Beggar – a sound that incorporates all manner of unexpected elements, while always celebrating the mischievous spirit of folk music across the centuries.
Said The Maiden – a beautiful blend of instrumentation and female vocals from three friends who discovered a mutual love of folk music when they reunited several years after spending their school years together in Hertfordshire.
The Beaubowbelles – combining the swing, wit and class of a vintage vocal harmony group with the sounds of a contemporary English folk band.
Lincoln Folk, Roots & World Music Festival
Saturday 14th July
Lincoln Alive, Lincoln
Early Bird Tickets are only £23.00 and to book, please call 01472 349 222 or go online at: http://www.lincolnfolkfestival.co.uk/tickets.html
To find out more about the line-ups and the festival in general, please visit: http://www.lincolnfolkfestival.co.uk/index.html
Doors open at 1.30 pm; music starts at 2.00 pm; festival ends at 10.00 pm.
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Edinburgh heavy soul-blues outfit The Rising Souls have released a new song entitled 'Escape.'
The contemporary soul-blues meets spacious, Zeppelin-esque sound of the song also acts as a precursor to a full album that the band are currently working towards.
The contemporary soul-blues meets spacious, Zeppelin-esque sound of the song also acts as a precursor to a full album that the band are currently working towards.
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Diamond Black, the London based dark-rock quartet founded by Sisters of Mercy guitarist Ben Christo have just released a new single entitled 'Ghost in the Glass.'
The new song and debut single 'Sorrow,' released in October of last year, help define and describe what Diamond Black are all about musically and lyrically - intense riffs, electronica and cinematic choruses; powerful and muscular musicality that can also be fragile and haunting, with lyrical themes that are often nuanced, introspective and emotive with vocals ranging from brooding whispers to venomous screams.
The band’s influences are as musically diverse as Katatonia, Depeche Mode, Type O Negative and The Cult but with Finnish singer J.I. Turunen’s distinctly Scandinavian melancholy, backed by Ben Christo’s thick riffs and emotive lead-lines and a powerful rhythm section in the shape of drummer Jan-Vincent Velazco and bassist Adam Lightspeed (all encased within the darkwave/electro-rock production of noted Finnish musician and producer Jaani Peuhu) the results are definitively, and dynamically, Diamond Black.
The new song and debut single 'Sorrow,' released in October of last year, help define and describe what Diamond Black are all about musically and lyrically - intense riffs, electronica and cinematic choruses; powerful and muscular musicality that can also be fragile and haunting, with lyrical themes that are often nuanced, introspective and emotive with vocals ranging from brooding whispers to venomous screams.
The band’s influences are as musically diverse as Katatonia, Depeche Mode, Type O Negative and The Cult but with Finnish singer J.I. Turunen’s distinctly Scandinavian melancholy, backed by Ben Christo’s thick riffs and emotive lead-lines and a powerful rhythm section in the shape of drummer Jan-Vincent Velazco and bassist Adam Lightspeed (all encased within the darkwave/electro-rock production of noted Finnish musician and producer Jaani Peuhu) the results are definitively, and dynamically, Diamond Black.
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Due to popular demand Brian Downey’s Alive and Dangerous will play five dates in the UK in September and October as part of their ongoing performance tribute to the 40th Anniversary of Thin Lizzy’s iconic live album Live and Dangerous.
Tickets are on sale now, direct from the venues.
Original Thin Lizzy member and one of the great rock drummers, Brian Downey, says of the shows:
"We will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Live and Dangerous by performing the album in its entirety when we tour it in the UK in September and October. Thin Lizzy fans have been asking us when we will embark on a UK tour. The time has finally arrived!"
Brian Downey’s Alive And Dangerous features Brian Grace (best known as the guitarist for the Commitments’ Andrew Strong), plus former Low Rider band members Matt Wilson (lead vocals, bass), and Phil Edgar (lead guitar).
Brian Downey’s Alive And Dangerous - September/October UK Dates
South Shields, Queen Vic - Tuesday 25th September
Stoke, Eleven - Thursday 27th September
London, Camden Underworld - Friday 28th September
Wolverhampton, The Robin 2 - Saturday 29th September
Glasgow, Classic Grand - Monday 1st October
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Tickets are on sale now, direct from the venues.
Original Thin Lizzy member and one of the great rock drummers, Brian Downey, says of the shows:
"We will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Live and Dangerous by performing the album in its entirety when we tour it in the UK in September and October. Thin Lizzy fans have been asking us when we will embark on a UK tour. The time has finally arrived!"
Brian Downey’s Alive And Dangerous features Brian Grace (best known as the guitarist for the Commitments’ Andrew Strong), plus former Low Rider band members Matt Wilson (lead vocals, bass), and Phil Edgar (lead guitar).
Brian Downey’s Alive And Dangerous - September/October UK Dates
South Shields, Queen Vic - Tuesday 25th September
Stoke, Eleven - Thursday 27th September
London, Camden Underworld - Friday 28th September
Wolverhampton, The Robin 2 - Saturday 29th September
Glasgow, Classic Grand - Monday 1st October
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Photo by Laurence Harvey
Following his sold-out Perfection Kills March 2018 UK Tour, South African singer-songwriter and blues rock guitarist Dan Patlansky will return to the UK in November for a further nine dates.
Patlansky’s latest album Perfection Kills is the follow up to 2016’s Introvertigo which was met with universal critical acclaim and voted #1 Blues Rock Album 2016 by Blues Rock Review.
Perfection Kills was recorded at Scherzo Productions, a recording studio in Dan Patlansky’s home town of Pretoria, South Africa. The musician chose Scherzo because he wanted to make a different sounding record and he felt it was the right studio for his vision.
Dan Patlansky was nominated as one of Classic Rock magazine’s hotly tipped new artists of 2015 when his Dear Silence Thieves album received numerous accolades and praise from the British blues and rock press. He’s been voted Most Promising Male Blues Artist by Blues & Soul Magazine and was also nominated as Best International Solo Artist at the Planet Rock Radio ‘Rocks’ Awards.
Dan Patlansky – November 2018 UK Dates
(Tickets - thegigcartel.com, danpatlansky.com )
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Wednesday 21st November
Norwich, The Waterfront - Thursday 22nd November
Newbury, Arlington Arts Centre - Friday 23rd November
Chester, The Live Rooms - Saturday 24th November
Bury, The Met - Sunday 25th November
Leeds, Brudenell Social Club - Tuesday 27th November
Bromsgrove, Artrix - Wednesday 28th November
London, O2 Academy Islington - Thursday 29th November
Bristol, The Tunnels - Friday 30th November
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Patlansky’s latest album Perfection Kills is the follow up to 2016’s Introvertigo which was met with universal critical acclaim and voted #1 Blues Rock Album 2016 by Blues Rock Review.
Perfection Kills was recorded at Scherzo Productions, a recording studio in Dan Patlansky’s home town of Pretoria, South Africa. The musician chose Scherzo because he wanted to make a different sounding record and he felt it was the right studio for his vision.
Dan Patlansky was nominated as one of Classic Rock magazine’s hotly tipped new artists of 2015 when his Dear Silence Thieves album received numerous accolades and praise from the British blues and rock press. He’s been voted Most Promising Male Blues Artist by Blues & Soul Magazine and was also nominated as Best International Solo Artist at the Planet Rock Radio ‘Rocks’ Awards.
Dan Patlansky – November 2018 UK Dates
(Tickets - thegigcartel.com, danpatlansky.com )
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Wednesday 21st November
Norwich, The Waterfront - Thursday 22nd November
Newbury, Arlington Arts Centre - Friday 23rd November
Chester, The Live Rooms - Saturday 24th November
Bury, The Met - Sunday 25th November
Leeds, Brudenell Social Club - Tuesday 27th November
Bromsgrove, Artrix - Wednesday 28th November
London, O2 Academy Islington - Thursday 29th November
Bristol, The Tunnels - Friday 30th November
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Finnish singer-songwriter and outstanding slide guitarist Erja Lyytinen has released a brand new single, 'Without You.'
The song, a bluesy rock number with a funky undertone (an Erja Lyytinen strength and trait), lyrically deals with having to live with something or someone now out of reach. It will also feature on what will be Lyytinen's next studio album, due for release in the autumn.
'Without You' was written by Erja Lyytinen and recorded with her new band, which features Kasperi Kallio (keyboards), Tatu Back (bass) and Iiro Laitinen (drums).
Says Erja Lyytinen of the song "I started writing Without You a few years back, but never found the right moment to finish it. I brought the song into the rehearsal studio at the beginning of 2018 and the band and I started to work on it. The arrangement was completely different at first, with some R&B elements, but it turned out to be something that I´m keen doing on stage nowadays – it’s loud, rocky and frank!"
The song, a bluesy rock number with a funky undertone (an Erja Lyytinen strength and trait), lyrically deals with having to live with something or someone now out of reach. It will also feature on what will be Lyytinen's next studio album, due for release in the autumn.
'Without You' was written by Erja Lyytinen and recorded with her new band, which features Kasperi Kallio (keyboards), Tatu Back (bass) and Iiro Laitinen (drums).
Says Erja Lyytinen of the song "I started writing Without You a few years back, but never found the right moment to finish it. I brought the song into the rehearsal studio at the beginning of 2018 and the band and I started to work on it. The arrangement was completely different at first, with some R&B elements, but it turned out to be something that I´m keen doing on stage nowadays – it’s loud, rocky and frank!"
Erja Lyytinen has also confirmed a clutch of headlining UK tour shows for November 2018 to support the release of the forthcoming album:
London, Borderline - Tuesday 6th November
Bridgwater, Bar Brunel - Wednesday 7th November
Wolverhampton, Robin 2 - Thursday 8th November
Darlington, R&B Club - Friday 9th November
Bude, Blues Festival - Sunday 11th November
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London, Borderline - Tuesday 6th November
Bridgwater, Bar Brunel - Wednesday 7th November
Wolverhampton, Robin 2 - Thursday 8th November
Darlington, R&B Club - Friday 9th November
Bude, Blues Festival - Sunday 11th November
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The Devon Allman Project with special guest Duane Betts, will play six dates in the UK in September.
Tickets for all shows are priced at £20 and available through www.thegigcartel.com or the 24HR Box Office 08444 780 898.
On August 12th, 2017, after spending much of the summer off the road, Devon Allman, former leader of Royal Southern Brotherhood and Devon Allman's Honeytribe, reignited his career with an appearance at an all-star tribute to his father Gregg Allman and Butch Trucks at Peachfest (an Allman Brothers curated festival). Chuck Leavell, Jaimoe, Duane Betts, Marc Quinones, Peter Levin, Oteil Burbridge, Dave Schools and others participated in the tribute.
The Devon Allman Project, with special guest Duane Betts (son of Dickey Betts and former member of Dawes and Great Southern) kicked off their 2018 World Tour with a special show at the Fillmore in San Francisco on December 8th, 2017.
The Fillmore show featured guest appearances by Luther and Cody Dickinson (North Mississippi All-Stars), Samantha Fish, Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie, Jeff Beck, Hank Williams Jr.), Bobby Whitlock (Derek & The Dominos, Dr. John, Rolling Stones ) and long-time Gregg Allman keyboardist, Peter Levin, acting as the musical director.
On the forthcoming UK tour, The Devon Allman Project with Duane Betts will perform sets of Duane Betts and Devon Allman originals, a number of Royal Southern Brotherhood and Honeytribe songs and an encore set that will include Allman Brothers songs.
Devon Allman Project featuring Duane Betts – UK Dates:
Bristol, The Fleece - Sunday 2nd September
Bilston, Robin 2 - Monday 3rd September
London, Islington Assembly Hall - Tuesday 4th September
Newcastle, Riverside - Thursday 6th September
Leeds, Brudenell Social Club - Friday 7th September
Manchester, Academy 3 - Saturday 8th September
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Tickets for all shows are priced at £20 and available through www.thegigcartel.com or the 24HR Box Office 08444 780 898.
On August 12th, 2017, after spending much of the summer off the road, Devon Allman, former leader of Royal Southern Brotherhood and Devon Allman's Honeytribe, reignited his career with an appearance at an all-star tribute to his father Gregg Allman and Butch Trucks at Peachfest (an Allman Brothers curated festival). Chuck Leavell, Jaimoe, Duane Betts, Marc Quinones, Peter Levin, Oteil Burbridge, Dave Schools and others participated in the tribute.
The Devon Allman Project, with special guest Duane Betts (son of Dickey Betts and former member of Dawes and Great Southern) kicked off their 2018 World Tour with a special show at the Fillmore in San Francisco on December 8th, 2017.
The Fillmore show featured guest appearances by Luther and Cody Dickinson (North Mississippi All-Stars), Samantha Fish, Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie, Jeff Beck, Hank Williams Jr.), Bobby Whitlock (Derek & The Dominos, Dr. John, Rolling Stones ) and long-time Gregg Allman keyboardist, Peter Levin, acting as the musical director.
On the forthcoming UK tour, The Devon Allman Project with Duane Betts will perform sets of Duane Betts and Devon Allman originals, a number of Royal Southern Brotherhood and Honeytribe songs and an encore set that will include Allman Brothers songs.
Devon Allman Project featuring Duane Betts – UK Dates:
Bristol, The Fleece - Sunday 2nd September
Bilston, Robin 2 - Monday 3rd September
London, Islington Assembly Hall - Tuesday 4th September
Newcastle, Riverside - Thursday 6th September
Leeds, Brudenell Social Club - Friday 7th September
Manchester, Academy 3 - Saturday 8th September
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Glenn Hughes, known to millions of music fans as the 'Voice of Rock,' a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with Deep Purple and front man for rock super group Black Country Communion, has announced he will be performing Deep Purple only material with his "Glenn Hughes Performs Classic Deep Purple Live" show when he plays the UK in October.
The nine October dates, preceded by two Irish shows in September in Belfast (Waterfront, 29th) and Dublin (Olympia, 30th), promise to be a dynamic, turn-back-the-clocks homage to Hughes' tenure in the MK III and MK IV incarnations of Deep Purple, one of music history’s most seminal and influential rock and roll groups.
"I'm excited to be touring the Classic Deep Purple Live in the UK this October. I first toured Classic Deep Purple Live in Australia and New Zealand last year and it went down like a storm. We’re also touring the show throughout South America in April, and festivals throughout the summer. By the time we tour the UK in October, we’ll be on fire!" -- Glenn Hughes
GLENN HUGHES PERFORMS CLASSIC DEEP PURPLE LIVE – OCTOBER 2018 UK TOUR
Tickets: 08444 780 898 (24HR Box Office) www.thegigcartel.com All Tickets £27.50 (Except London: £30.00)
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The nine October dates, preceded by two Irish shows in September in Belfast (Waterfront, 29th) and Dublin (Olympia, 30th), promise to be a dynamic, turn-back-the-clocks homage to Hughes' tenure in the MK III and MK IV incarnations of Deep Purple, one of music history’s most seminal and influential rock and roll groups.
"I'm excited to be touring the Classic Deep Purple Live in the UK this October. I first toured Classic Deep Purple Live in Australia and New Zealand last year and it went down like a storm. We’re also touring the show throughout South America in April, and festivals throughout the summer. By the time we tour the UK in October, we’ll be on fire!" -- Glenn Hughes
GLENN HUGHES PERFORMS CLASSIC DEEP PURPLE LIVE – OCTOBER 2018 UK TOUR
Tickets: 08444 780 898 (24HR Box Office) www.thegigcartel.com All Tickets £27.50 (Except London: £30.00)
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Following last year’s highly successful Classic (and new) Hackett and Genesis Revisited tour, renowned guitarist, prog icon and former Genesis member Steve Hackett has announced a special eight date tour of the UK for this October.
The shows will once again treat fans to many favourite Genesis and Steve Hackett numbers, but this time with Hackett and his band accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra.
The decision to undertake this tour was cemented following the critical success of last year’s one-off US performance of the Genesis Revisited music with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Bradley Thachuk.
The performance went down a storm with the audience and, with the orchestra adding its own texture and colour to these classic tracks, it solidified Hackett’s thoughts on wanting to perform more orchestrated shows.
Additionally, such was the gusto and verve brought to the performance by the charismatic Bradley Thachuk that he will fly over to the UK to conduct the October shows.
"I always hoped that the Genesis music would one day involve an orchestra and I'm proud to say I'll now be able to make that dream a reality on my next British tour, involving my own extraordinary rock band alongside a full-sized orchestra."
Steve Hackett.
The show will feature some of the best-loved songs from the Genesis catalogue (including 'Supper’s Ready,' 'Dancing with the Moonlit Knight' and 'Firth of Fifth') but Steve Hackett will not be neglecting his remarkable solo repertoire; a number of classic Hackett tracks will be included such as 'Shadow of the Hierophant,'
'El Niño' and 'The Steppes.'
Tickets are available from https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett and venue box offices; please note the London Festival Hall show on the 4th of October has already sold out.
Joining Steve Hackett on the orchestrated tour are his regular musicians Roger King (keyboards), Gary O’Toole (drums/percussion), Rob Townsend (saxophones/flutes) with Nad Sylvan on vocals.
The band will be joined for this tour by Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings) on bass.
Meanwhile, with Steve Hackett having begun his North American tour (starting with Cruise To The Edge), Hackett has celebrated the tour by rerecording GTR’s hit US single 'When The Heart Rules The Mind,' which is now available as a purchasable download via Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon and all other digital services.
Of the rerecording Steve Hackett explains: "I always loved the track When the Heart Rules the Mind. I think it is the strongest thing Steve Howe and I wrote together and I always wanted to do a version where I would sing it myself with the use of today's production techniques. I'm also very pleased to have my friend Steve Rothery on board doing additional guitar."
The shows will once again treat fans to many favourite Genesis and Steve Hackett numbers, but this time with Hackett and his band accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra.
The decision to undertake this tour was cemented following the critical success of last year’s one-off US performance of the Genesis Revisited music with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Bradley Thachuk.
The performance went down a storm with the audience and, with the orchestra adding its own texture and colour to these classic tracks, it solidified Hackett’s thoughts on wanting to perform more orchestrated shows.
Additionally, such was the gusto and verve brought to the performance by the charismatic Bradley Thachuk that he will fly over to the UK to conduct the October shows.
"I always hoped that the Genesis music would one day involve an orchestra and I'm proud to say I'll now be able to make that dream a reality on my next British tour, involving my own extraordinary rock band alongside a full-sized orchestra."
Steve Hackett.
The show will feature some of the best-loved songs from the Genesis catalogue (including 'Supper’s Ready,' 'Dancing with the Moonlit Knight' and 'Firth of Fifth') but Steve Hackett will not be neglecting his remarkable solo repertoire; a number of classic Hackett tracks will be included such as 'Shadow of the Hierophant,'
'El Niño' and 'The Steppes.'
Tickets are available from https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett and venue box offices; please note the London Festival Hall show on the 4th of October has already sold out.
Joining Steve Hackett on the orchestrated tour are his regular musicians Roger King (keyboards), Gary O’Toole (drums/percussion), Rob Townsend (saxophones/flutes) with Nad Sylvan on vocals.
The band will be joined for this tour by Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings) on bass.
Meanwhile, with Steve Hackett having begun his North American tour (starting with Cruise To The Edge), Hackett has celebrated the tour by rerecording GTR’s hit US single 'When The Heart Rules The Mind,' which is now available as a purchasable download via Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon and all other digital services.
Of the rerecording Steve Hackett explains: "I always loved the track When the Heart Rules the Mind. I think it is the strongest thing Steve Howe and I wrote together and I always wanted to do a version where I would sing it myself with the use of today's production techniques. I'm also very pleased to have my friend Steve Rothery on board doing additional guitar."
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Geoff Carne and the Hatz (the live performance duo of rock/ blues singer-guitarist Geoff Carne and long-time musical partner, drummer Mick Hatz) have released a new EP entitled 4 Play.
4 Play follows on from the rock and garage blues stylings of the duo’s 2016 album Get Close, which garnered favourable review from the likes of Liverpool Sound and Vision and Pete Feenstra for Get Ready To Rock!; Geoff Carne’s 2014 solo album, One To One, also received favourable review, including from FabricationsHQ.
On the EP the Carne and Hatz team are joined by Paul Mex (producer, mixer, bass guitar, piano).
As regards the direction of the 4 Play material and the differences between Geoff Carne and the Hatz as a live duo and the three-piece heard on 4 Play, Geoff Carne explained to FabricationsHQ that "on the EP we moved more into a riff and 12 bar blues route for the first three songs ('Down and Out,' 'Maybe Someday,' 'Medicine Man') before finishing with a piano mix of the rock ballad 'Forgiven,' which was a single last summer.
Our producer Paul Mex plays piano on the track and added some subtle bass lines all to the songs, making them more radio friendly.
Live, we remain the vocal, guitar and drums two-piece outfit Geoff Carnes and the Hatz!"
4 Play follows on from the rock and garage blues stylings of the duo’s 2016 album Get Close, which garnered favourable review from the likes of Liverpool Sound and Vision and Pete Feenstra for Get Ready To Rock!; Geoff Carne’s 2014 solo album, One To One, also received favourable review, including from FabricationsHQ.
On the EP the Carne and Hatz team are joined by Paul Mex (producer, mixer, bass guitar, piano).
As regards the direction of the 4 Play material and the differences between Geoff Carne and the Hatz as a live duo and the three-piece heard on 4 Play, Geoff Carne explained to FabricationsHQ that "on the EP we moved more into a riff and 12 bar blues route for the first three songs ('Down and Out,' 'Maybe Someday,' 'Medicine Man') before finishing with a piano mix of the rock ballad 'Forgiven,' which was a single last summer.
Our producer Paul Mex plays piano on the track and added some subtle bass lines all to the songs, making them more radio friendly.
Live, we remain the vocal, guitar and drums two-piece outfit Geoff Carnes and the Hatz!"
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Good to see and hear Belfast based rock outfit Baleful Creed starting to make a noise (and a heavy, weighty one at that) with second album Seismic Shifter.
On the latest album the band – Fin Finlay (vocals, guitar), John Allen (guitar), Davy Greer (bass, vocals) and Dave Jeffers (drums) – mix stoner rock and more contemporary influences with the purposeful riffage of Black Sabbath while lyrically shunning the usual suspects for weightier, real life subjects (the album’s title reflects the changing political landscapes, nationally and globally, and not the ground shaking volume of the music within).
Baleful Creed have already picked up some solid recognition through dedicated rock radio stations on both sides of the pond and more lately featured on Planet Rock; on the strength of Seismic Shifter the band’s debut album (a remixed and remastered package of earlier EP releases) is now close to selling out in its hard copy/ CD form.
On the latest album the band – Fin Finlay (vocals, guitar), John Allen (guitar), Davy Greer (bass, vocals) and Dave Jeffers (drums) – mix stoner rock and more contemporary influences with the purposeful riffage of Black Sabbath while lyrically shunning the usual suspects for weightier, real life subjects (the album’s title reflects the changing political landscapes, nationally and globally, and not the ground shaking volume of the music within).
Baleful Creed have already picked up some solid recognition through dedicated rock radio stations on both sides of the pond and more lately featured on Planet Rock; on the strength of Seismic Shifter the band’s debut album (a remixed and remastered package of earlier EP releases) is now close to selling out in its hard copy/ CD form.
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It's always an ears-pricked-up pleasure when something or somebody comes out of left field to pique your musical interest or adds a different colour to what you perceived to be their chosen pallette.
Making very different musical marks from previous or current endeavours are two Scottish musicians by the names of Edward Mackay and Fraser Clark.
With the greatest respect Ed Mackay is not a name that will be familiar to those outside of the Ayrshire music scene or Gourock, where he now resides.
Ed was a member of Ayrshire based band Rose Parade, a group whose indie-folk and quirky, melodic charm should have got them well beyond the Radio One airplay and FabricationsHQ page space they received and on to the wider alt-pop appeal they deserved, but destined never to achieve.
Ed Mackay’s latest venture, under the name Point Cove (inspired by the Isle of Lewis where Mackay grew up) is, at this stage, a collection of four home/ computer recorded tracks known collectively as the They Don’t Make Them Like They Used To EP.
Ed is now actively seeking routes toward making Point Cove and the debut EP a distributor based or self-released realisation.
Based on a mixture of computer created rhythms, post-rock, string effects, pop and the use of vintage, spoken word recordings the four tracks link to themes about our relationship with, and discovery of, sound through technology.
'Written in Wax' is about the original vinyl record; 'I Am the Edison Phonograph' declares itself just that; 'From Any Place at Any Time' heralds the advent of radio; 'Hear Me Speak' features some of the earliest recordings of peoples' voices.
The results are a mini-work that remind of Bill Nelson’s similarly themed instrumental-with-spoken-word creations that pepper his vast solo catalogue (an exceptionally creative artist whose pop & rock-art stylings mean his mainstream, rock star days are decades behind him, Nelson manages a successful and satisfying (but small scale) cottage industry career).
The point (cove) being, if you’re compared to Bill Nelson, you’re doing something right – and creative.
Making very different musical marks from previous or current endeavours are two Scottish musicians by the names of Edward Mackay and Fraser Clark.
With the greatest respect Ed Mackay is not a name that will be familiar to those outside of the Ayrshire music scene or Gourock, where he now resides.
Ed was a member of Ayrshire based band Rose Parade, a group whose indie-folk and quirky, melodic charm should have got them well beyond the Radio One airplay and FabricationsHQ page space they received and on to the wider alt-pop appeal they deserved, but destined never to achieve.
Ed Mackay’s latest venture, under the name Point Cove (inspired by the Isle of Lewis where Mackay grew up) is, at this stage, a collection of four home/ computer recorded tracks known collectively as the They Don’t Make Them Like They Used To EP.
Ed is now actively seeking routes toward making Point Cove and the debut EP a distributor based or self-released realisation.
Based on a mixture of computer created rhythms, post-rock, string effects, pop and the use of vintage, spoken word recordings the four tracks link to themes about our relationship with, and discovery of, sound through technology.
'Written in Wax' is about the original vinyl record; 'I Am the Edison Phonograph' declares itself just that; 'From Any Place at Any Time' heralds the advent of radio; 'Hear Me Speak' features some of the earliest recordings of peoples' voices.
The results are a mini-work that remind of Bill Nelson’s similarly themed instrumental-with-spoken-word creations that pepper his vast solo catalogue (an exceptionally creative artist whose pop & rock-art stylings mean his mainstream, rock star days are decades behind him, Nelson manages a successful and satisfying (but small scale) cottage industry career).
The point (cove) being, if you’re compared to Bill Nelson, you’re doing something right – and creative.
Coming from an entirely different musical angle, but one that is equally creative, is the From The Depths EP by Fraser Clark, a keyboard player whose name will be familiar to anyone who follows the UK’s blues rock scene and the "soul-deep rhythm and blues" outfit Redfish (who recently opened the main day of the returning Carlisle Blues Festival).
Fraser Clark’s highly animated on stage persona and bluesified keyboard remarks have been exchanged for a far calmer and contemporary solo venture – his piano instrumental offering are about as far removed from the Redfish brand of rhythm and blues as you could imagine – but his nu classical / semi-progressive piano pieces are imagined very well indeed.
Opening with the slightly sinister 'From The Depths' (not so much "look out behind you" as "look out below you") the space between the notes (reflecting what lies hidden beneath the surface) adds atmosphere to the EP's title track.
'Broken' adds traditional, yet still contemporary, melancholic contrast before the eight minute 'Glacier' acts as a slow moving soundtrack to the much slower moving icy giant.
The delicate 'Dust' and brighter allegro of 'Silver' close out what could be described as a Redfish out of Water but, like Ed Mackay and Point Cove, From the Depths is artistic passion over musical fashion – and that’s the kind of melody that will always appeal to, and be supported by, FabricationsHQ.
Fraser Clark’s highly animated on stage persona and bluesified keyboard remarks have been exchanged for a far calmer and contemporary solo venture – his piano instrumental offering are about as far removed from the Redfish brand of rhythm and blues as you could imagine – but his nu classical / semi-progressive piano pieces are imagined very well indeed.
Opening with the slightly sinister 'From The Depths' (not so much "look out behind you" as "look out below you") the space between the notes (reflecting what lies hidden beneath the surface) adds atmosphere to the EP's title track.
'Broken' adds traditional, yet still contemporary, melancholic contrast before the eight minute 'Glacier' acts as a slow moving soundtrack to the much slower moving icy giant.
The delicate 'Dust' and brighter allegro of 'Silver' close out what could be described as a Redfish out of Water but, like Ed Mackay and Point Cove, From the Depths is artistic passion over musical fashion – and that’s the kind of melody that will always appeal to, and be supported by, FabricationsHQ.
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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, musician
"What Victor said."
Ross Muir, FabricationsHQ
Victor Wooten, musician
"What Victor said."
Ross Muir, FabricationsHQ