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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer & Music Promotion
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer & Music Promotion
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Wayward Sons have announced a special EP entitled Score Settled, which will be released on Frontiers Records on 17th June.
The EP features three new songs recorded during the sessions for the band's excellent 2021 album Even Up The Score, three more that were only previously available on vinyl singles and a live studio version of a song previously released in Japan.
Pre-order the CD from the Frontiers Shop or pre-order CD with merch options at:
https://store.waywardsonsband.com/collections/score-settled
Fronted by vocalist/guitarist Toby Jepson, with Nic Wastell (bass), Phil Martini (drums) and Sam Wood (guitar), Wayward Sons perform energetic classic meets contemporary rock coupled with thoughtful, insightful lyrics.
The quartet create passionate, honest music that reflects inspirations from the 70s and 80s, but is very much of the here and now.
The return of former Little Angels singer Toby Jepson with Wayward Sons in 2017 was welcomed throughout the hard rock scene (following the success of Little Angels, with millions of sales that included a No. 1 album and numerous hit singles, Jepson had subsequently remained busy with movie work, performing with Fastway, Gun and Dio’s Disciples, and production credits (Saxon, Fastway, The Virginmarys, Toseland)).
However, Toby Jepson’s heart had always been in writing and performing; his new group Wayward Sons were introduced via debut album Ghosts Of Yet To Come, which was greeted with outstanding critical acclaim upon its release in 2017 (earning them a Best New Band gong at the Planet Rock awards; further successes came with follow-up The Truth Ain’t What It Used to Be and third album Even Up The Score.
Wayward Sons – Score Settled EP – Track listing:
Beaten to The Punch; Can’t Take It Anymore; Real Go-Getta; Standby Heart (from ‘Don't Wanna Go’ 12" picture disc); Radio Denial (from ‘Don't Wanna Go’ 12" picture disc); Totally Screwed (from ‘Totally Screwed’ 7" flexi-disc); Backslide (Live In the Studio) - live version of Japan bonus track on Ghosts Of Yet To Come).
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The EP features three new songs recorded during the sessions for the band's excellent 2021 album Even Up The Score, three more that were only previously available on vinyl singles and a live studio version of a song previously released in Japan.
Pre-order the CD from the Frontiers Shop or pre-order CD with merch options at:
https://store.waywardsonsband.com/collections/score-settled
Fronted by vocalist/guitarist Toby Jepson, with Nic Wastell (bass), Phil Martini (drums) and Sam Wood (guitar), Wayward Sons perform energetic classic meets contemporary rock coupled with thoughtful, insightful lyrics.
The quartet create passionate, honest music that reflects inspirations from the 70s and 80s, but is very much of the here and now.
The return of former Little Angels singer Toby Jepson with Wayward Sons in 2017 was welcomed throughout the hard rock scene (following the success of Little Angels, with millions of sales that included a No. 1 album and numerous hit singles, Jepson had subsequently remained busy with movie work, performing with Fastway, Gun and Dio’s Disciples, and production credits (Saxon, Fastway, The Virginmarys, Toseland)).
However, Toby Jepson’s heart had always been in writing and performing; his new group Wayward Sons were introduced via debut album Ghosts Of Yet To Come, which was greeted with outstanding critical acclaim upon its release in 2017 (earning them a Best New Band gong at the Planet Rock awards; further successes came with follow-up The Truth Ain’t What It Used to Be and third album Even Up The Score.
Wayward Sons – Score Settled EP – Track listing:
Beaten to The Punch; Can’t Take It Anymore; Real Go-Getta; Standby Heart (from ‘Don't Wanna Go’ 12" picture disc); Radio Denial (from ‘Don't Wanna Go’ 12" picture disc); Totally Screwed (from ‘Totally Screwed’ 7" flexi-disc); Backslide (Live In the Studio) - live version of Japan bonus track on Ghosts Of Yet To Come).
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YES have announced that due to current health issues Alan White will not be taking part on the forthcoming 50th Anniversary Close to the Edge UK & Eire Tour.
The veteran YES drummer was looking forward to playing live again and celebrating 50 years with Yes, having joined the band for the July 1972 Close to the Edge Tour, coming full circle in 2022.
Jay Schellen will be taking on drumming duties in Alan White’s place.
The Album Series Tour 2022 celebrates the 50th anniversary of YES’ iconic album Close to the Edge, performed in full. Other classic tracks from the YES catalogue will also feature.
This tour line-up will feature Steve Howe (guitars), Geoff Downes (keyboards), Jon Davison (lead vocals), Billy Sherwood (bass guitar, backing vocals) and Jay Schellen (drums, percussion).
The show will comprise full production and a high-definition video wall directed by Roger Dean who will also be joining the tour with an exhibition of YES related art.
For full details and to book tickets for all shows go to the venue websites or visit http://yesworld.com/live where you can also book Meet and Greets with the band.
The veteran YES drummer was looking forward to playing live again and celebrating 50 years with Yes, having joined the band for the July 1972 Close to the Edge Tour, coming full circle in 2022.
Jay Schellen will be taking on drumming duties in Alan White’s place.
The Album Series Tour 2022 celebrates the 50th anniversary of YES’ iconic album Close to the Edge, performed in full. Other classic tracks from the YES catalogue will also feature.
This tour line-up will feature Steve Howe (guitars), Geoff Downes (keyboards), Jon Davison (lead vocals), Billy Sherwood (bass guitar, backing vocals) and Jay Schellen (drums, percussion).
The show will comprise full production and a high-definition video wall directed by Roger Dean who will also be joining the tour with an exhibition of YES related art.
For full details and to book tickets for all shows go to the venue websites or visit http://yesworld.com/live where you can also book Meet and Greets with the band.
This tour, twice rescheduled due to the Covid pandemic was intended to showcase the classic YES 1974 album Relayer album but will now feature Close to the Edge (a full performance of the Relayer album will now be featured in a future UK tour). All UK tour dates are as previously announced and all tickets remain valid.
With sales of over 50 million records, the Grammy-award winning YES were inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017; in 2021 YES released their 22nd studio album, The Quest, which entered the Official UK Album Chart at No. 20.
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With sales of over 50 million records, the Grammy-award winning YES were inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2017; in 2021 YES released their 22nd studio album, The Quest, which entered the Official UK Album Chart at No. 20.
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Billy Idol has rescheduled The Roadside Tour 2022 with new dates now set for October.
All existing tickets are still valid for the revised dates. Tickets at: www.aegpresents.co.uk/billy-idol
Says Billy Idol: "This year has dealt me some health challenges which are nearly, but not quite resolved. While my recovery is almost complete, I have been given doctor’s orders to stay off the road until August; so it is with great frustration that we must reschedule the UK Tour for October of this year. These shows will be worth the wait!"
Billy’s touring band features his long-time guitarist and collaborator Steve Stevens along with Stephen McGrath (bass, backing vocals), Billy Morrison (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Trudeau (keyboards, backing vocals) and drummer Erik Eldenius.
All existing tickets are still valid for the revised dates. Tickets at: www.aegpresents.co.uk/billy-idol
Says Billy Idol: "This year has dealt me some health challenges which are nearly, but not quite resolved. While my recovery is almost complete, I have been given doctor’s orders to stay off the road until August; so it is with great frustration that we must reschedule the UK Tour for October of this year. These shows will be worth the wait!"
Billy’s touring band features his long-time guitarist and collaborator Steve Stevens along with Stephen McGrath (bass, backing vocals), Billy Morrison (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Trudeau (keyboards, backing vocals) and drummer Erik Eldenius.
Supporting Billy Idol, and replacing The Go-Go’s on the original dates, are very special guests Television, including original frontman Tom Verlaine.
Continues Billy Idol: "Television are one of my favourite bands from the original New York punk scene and an inspiration to me throughout my career. I will be honoured to share the stage with them and hope everyone will come early to enjoy their set!"
The global lockdown of 2020 gave Billy Idol time to reflect and thoughts turned to his near-fatal motorcycle accident of 1990, how he dealt with it and how it related to the current crisis.
"The motorcycle accident was the catharsis, the wake-up moment. A little bit of me got left by the side of that road. Maybe I left behind the irreverent, youthful Billy and opened the door for a more attentive father and more sensitive musician. Something did get left by the roadside, but it was not necessarily a bad thing in the end."
Idol's reflections are captured in the lyrics of 'Bitter Taste,' one of four tracks on his 2021 EP The Roadside, which was his first new music for seven years.
Continues Billy Idol: "Television are one of my favourite bands from the original New York punk scene and an inspiration to me throughout my career. I will be honoured to share the stage with them and hope everyone will come early to enjoy their set!"
The global lockdown of 2020 gave Billy Idol time to reflect and thoughts turned to his near-fatal motorcycle accident of 1990, how he dealt with it and how it related to the current crisis.
"The motorcycle accident was the catharsis, the wake-up moment. A little bit of me got left by the side of that road. Maybe I left behind the irreverent, youthful Billy and opened the door for a more attentive father and more sensitive musician. Something did get left by the roadside, but it was not necessarily a bad thing in the end."
Idol's reflections are captured in the lyrics of 'Bitter Taste,' one of four tracks on his 2021 EP The Roadside, which was his first new music for seven years.
For forty-five years Billy Idol has been one of the faces and voices of rock.
He first emerged as the camera-ready front man for Generation X, between 1977 and 1981, before embarking on a remarkable transatlantic/trans-genre solo career that integrated clubland throb, wide-screen depth and drama, rockabilly desperation, the bold and simple lines of punk and rock ‘n’ roll decadence.
Embracing the new MTV music channel, videos for 'White Wedding,' 'Rebel Yell' and 'Eyes Without a Face' established Idol as one of the iconic performers of his generation; a position he still holds today.
Television’s debut album Marquee Moon, released in February 1977, was hailed by critics as one of the most striking and original recording debuts in years. The scissory, cascading guitar lines, the jabbing vocals, and the "psychotic calypso" drumming demonstrated that there was nothing punky or muddled about Television.
Marquee Moon was ranked #128 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, #2 on Uncut magazine’s 100 Greatest Debut Records and #3 on Pitchfork Media’s list of the best albums of the 1970s.
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He first emerged as the camera-ready front man for Generation X, between 1977 and 1981, before embarking on a remarkable transatlantic/trans-genre solo career that integrated clubland throb, wide-screen depth and drama, rockabilly desperation, the bold and simple lines of punk and rock ‘n’ roll decadence.
Embracing the new MTV music channel, videos for 'White Wedding,' 'Rebel Yell' and 'Eyes Without a Face' established Idol as one of the iconic performers of his generation; a position he still holds today.
Television’s debut album Marquee Moon, released in February 1977, was hailed by critics as one of the most striking and original recording debuts in years. The scissory, cascading guitar lines, the jabbing vocals, and the "psychotic calypso" drumming demonstrated that there was nothing punky or muddled about Television.
Marquee Moon was ranked #128 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, #2 on Uncut magazine’s 100 Greatest Debut Records and #3 on Pitchfork Media’s list of the best albums of the 1970s.
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After a seven-year hiatus, celebrated Irish rockers The Answer are set to make their long awaited and highly anticipated return with an exclusive comeback performance at this year’s Planet Rockstock festival on December 3rd.
A new album, produced by rising British rock producer Dan Weller (Enter Shikari, Bury Tomorrow), has also been recorded and is set for release in 2023.
A fortuitous ‘how do you feel about writing again’ call from management in the Covid-stricken 2020 planted a seed that slowly gathered pace as the band started sharing new ideas.
The now completed collection of work displays all of the band’s trademark raw attitude and lack of compromise. In their own words "It felt like we were back at the beginning again, a total reset."
Says front man Cormac Neeson "We’ve been through a lot as a band; we’ve toured the world, made six great records, given our live shows everything and always done our best to make honest and timeless music that connects with rock fans and music fans in general. After six albums and a lot of road miles we felt we needed to step back from it all and reset. Whilst that wasn’t an easy decision, with retrospect it possibly the best decision we’ve ever made because the end result is the album we’ve been waiting to make our whole lives… we’re back and we’re ready to bring our best album ever to you!”
A new album, produced by rising British rock producer Dan Weller (Enter Shikari, Bury Tomorrow), has also been recorded and is set for release in 2023.
A fortuitous ‘how do you feel about writing again’ call from management in the Covid-stricken 2020 planted a seed that slowly gathered pace as the band started sharing new ideas.
The now completed collection of work displays all of the band’s trademark raw attitude and lack of compromise. In their own words "It felt like we were back at the beginning again, a total reset."
Says front man Cormac Neeson "We’ve been through a lot as a band; we’ve toured the world, made six great records, given our live shows everything and always done our best to make honest and timeless music that connects with rock fans and music fans in general. After six albums and a lot of road miles we felt we needed to step back from it all and reset. Whilst that wasn’t an easy decision, with retrospect it possibly the best decision we’ve ever made because the end result is the album we’ve been waiting to make our whole lives… we’re back and we’re ready to bring our best album ever to you!”
Emerging into the rock spotlight in 2005, The Answer’s debut single 'Keep Believin’' became the subject of critical acclaim and led to the Best New Band award at that year’s Classic Rock Awards.
The following year the band consolidated that early promise with Rise, a debut album that received universally great reviews. When the band released their second album, Everyday Demons, three years later, the world was ready to embrace The Answer on an even greater scale.
The ensuing years saw the band cement their reputation, both as an astonishing live band and as one of rock’s brightest hopes, securing high profile support slots with The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith and a two-year stint on AC/DC’s 2008 Black Ice tour, which took them around the world and into some of the biggest venues on the planet.
In 2019, long-time fan and label owner Mark Alexander-Erber fulfilled a life-long ambition by signing The Answer to his Golden Robot Records for what will be their seventh album.
With over 300,000 catalogue album sales under their belt and considered one of the forebearers of what is now colloquially known as the New Wave Of Classic Rock, The Answer are set to return in 2023 with an album they believe is, without doubt, their best yet.
https://www.theanswerrock.com
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The following year the band consolidated that early promise with Rise, a debut album that received universally great reviews. When the band released their second album, Everyday Demons, three years later, the world was ready to embrace The Answer on an even greater scale.
The ensuing years saw the band cement their reputation, both as an astonishing live band and as one of rock’s brightest hopes, securing high profile support slots with The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith and a two-year stint on AC/DC’s 2008 Black Ice tour, which took them around the world and into some of the biggest venues on the planet.
In 2019, long-time fan and label owner Mark Alexander-Erber fulfilled a life-long ambition by signing The Answer to his Golden Robot Records for what will be their seventh album.
With over 300,000 catalogue album sales under their belt and considered one of the forebearers of what is now colloquially known as the New Wave Of Classic Rock, The Answer are set to return in 2023 with an album they believe is, without doubt, their best yet.
https://www.theanswerrock.com
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Pre-eminent funk outfit Lettuce will release their new album, Unify, on 3rd June.
Pre-order here: https://orcd.co/lettuceunify
The eighth studio record in total by the Boston based sextet, Unify completes a loose trilogy that began with the Grammy-nominated Elevate (2019) and continued with Resonate (2020).
On Unify there’s plenty of the ultra-funky, soulful and largely instrumental tracks that Lettuce have always been known for, but in the tightest form they have ever taken.
This time around they have also received the stamp of approval from one of the genre’s legendary icons, Bootsy Collins, who can be heard on the new single 'Keep That Funk Alive.'
Not so much a passing of the torch as it is a welcoming with open arms, Bootsy and the Boston-based sextet of Lettuce all join hands in honour of, as the title suggests, keeping the Funk alive.
"Linking up with Bootsy, one of the inventors of funk, still feels like a dream," says Lettuce drummer Adam Deitch. "Bootsy wants to keep funk alive and we wholeheartedly agree with that statement. This is one of our greatest accomplishments as a band!"
Sax player Ryan Zoidis concurs, adding that "KTFA is a dream come true and a collaboration we have imagined since we were teenage funksters. It came together beautifully with Bootsy's far-out and groovy vocals and multiple space-bass layers."
Pre-order here: https://orcd.co/lettuceunify
The eighth studio record in total by the Boston based sextet, Unify completes a loose trilogy that began with the Grammy-nominated Elevate (2019) and continued with Resonate (2020).
On Unify there’s plenty of the ultra-funky, soulful and largely instrumental tracks that Lettuce have always been known for, but in the tightest form they have ever taken.
This time around they have also received the stamp of approval from one of the genre’s legendary icons, Bootsy Collins, who can be heard on the new single 'Keep That Funk Alive.'
Not so much a passing of the torch as it is a welcoming with open arms, Bootsy and the Boston-based sextet of Lettuce all join hands in honour of, as the title suggests, keeping the Funk alive.
"Linking up with Bootsy, one of the inventors of funk, still feels like a dream," says Lettuce drummer Adam Deitch. "Bootsy wants to keep funk alive and we wholeheartedly agree with that statement. This is one of our greatest accomplishments as a band!"
Sax player Ryan Zoidis concurs, adding that "KTFA is a dream come true and a collaboration we have imagined since we were teenage funksters. It came together beautifully with Bootsy's far-out and groovy vocals and multiple space-bass layers."
A totally collaborative effort, Unify is full of exciting cuts with lyrics and arrangements by vocalist/ keyboardist Nigel Hall and fiery horn parts from trumpeter Eric ‘Benny’ Bloom, while bassist Erick ‘Jesus' Coomes observes that "we’re just getting tighter and tighter. These have been the first records made with the six of us as a team, and it’s the best the band has ever been: live and in the studio; the funkiest and the most fun."
"Dealing with the pandemic, being in separate places, trying to survive without our best friends, without touring, not to mention the political divide in this country... we really needed to unify," says Adam Deitch by way of explaining the album title, while Ryan Zoidis recalls that "the album somehow came together at a time when we were away from each other longer than we had been in years."
(Although the group members were able to write in their respective home studios, they had not been in the same room or on stage together since a European tour in the early spring of 2020 was cut short by lockdown).
Lettuce are: Adam Deitch – drums; Ryan Zoidis – saxophone; Adam ‘Shmeeans’ Smirnoff – guitar;
Erick ‘Jesus’ Coomes – bass; Nigel Hall - keyboards, vocals; Eric ‘Benny’ Bloom – trumpet
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"Dealing with the pandemic, being in separate places, trying to survive without our best friends, without touring, not to mention the political divide in this country... we really needed to unify," says Adam Deitch by way of explaining the album title, while Ryan Zoidis recalls that "the album somehow came together at a time when we were away from each other longer than we had been in years."
(Although the group members were able to write in their respective home studios, they had not been in the same room or on stage together since a European tour in the early spring of 2020 was cut short by lockdown).
Lettuce are: Adam Deitch – drums; Ryan Zoidis – saxophone; Adam ‘Shmeeans’ Smirnoff – guitar;
Erick ‘Jesus’ Coomes – bass; Nigel Hall - keyboards, vocals; Eric ‘Benny’ Bloom – trumpet
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Photo by Kit Wood
KTBA Records have announced the worldwide release of Joanne Shaw Taylor’s Blues From The Heart Live on June 10th.
The live performance will be available as a CD/DVD and CD/Blu-Ray package; it includes a collectible 24-page CD booklet.
Pre-order now at https://bit.ly/JSTblues.
The live album was recorded and filmed at The Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee on January 20th of this year; it features guest performances from Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Mike Farris, and Joe Bonamassa.
The concert was Joanne Shaw Taylor’s first live performance in two years, in the company of Rob McNelley (guitar), Steve Mackey (bass), Jimmy Wallace (keyboards), Nick Buda (drums) and Devonne Fowlkes & Kim Fleming (backing vocals).
'Can't You See What You're Doing To Me,' featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd, has been released as a single.
It's available to stream here.
The live performance will be available as a CD/DVD and CD/Blu-Ray package; it includes a collectible 24-page CD booklet.
Pre-order now at https://bit.ly/JSTblues.
The live album was recorded and filmed at The Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee on January 20th of this year; it features guest performances from Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Mike Farris, and Joe Bonamassa.
The concert was Joanne Shaw Taylor’s first live performance in two years, in the company of Rob McNelley (guitar), Steve Mackey (bass), Jimmy Wallace (keyboards), Nick Buda (drums) and Devonne Fowlkes & Kim Fleming (backing vocals).
'Can't You See What You're Doing To Me,' featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd, has been released as a single.
It's available to stream here.
Blues From the Heart Live - Track Listing
Stop Messin’ Round; If That Ain’t A Reason; Keep On Lovin’ Me; If You Gotta Make A Fool Of Somebody; Can’t You See What You’re Doing To Me (featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd); Let Me Down Easy; Two Time My Lovin’; I Don’t Know What You’ve Got (featuring Mike Farris); Three Time Loser; Dyin’ To Know; Just Another Word; I’ve Been Loving You Too Long; I’m In Chains; Don’t Go Away Mad (featuring Joe Bonamassa); Summertime (featuring Joe Bonamassa); Only You Know And I Know (featuring Joe Bonamassa)
Bonus DVD + Blu-Ray Features
All Access Pass : Behind The Scenes; Bonus Track: 'I’m No Angel'
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Stop Messin’ Round; If That Ain’t A Reason; Keep On Lovin’ Me; If You Gotta Make A Fool Of Somebody; Can’t You See What You’re Doing To Me (featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd); Let Me Down Easy; Two Time My Lovin’; I Don’t Know What You’ve Got (featuring Mike Farris); Three Time Loser; Dyin’ To Know; Just Another Word; I’ve Been Loving You Too Long; I’m In Chains; Don’t Go Away Mad (featuring Joe Bonamassa); Summertime (featuring Joe Bonamassa); Only You Know And I Know (featuring Joe Bonamassa)
Bonus DVD + Blu-Ray Features
All Access Pass : Behind The Scenes; Bonus Track: 'I’m No Angel'
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Internationally renowned rock guitarist Orianthi will release ‘Live From Hollywood’ in album and long-form video format on 15th July.
Pre-order/ Save at orcd.co/orianthilive
The performance, recorded in January 2022 at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood, California, sees the Australian musician and her band on fine form, playing songs such as her first hit 'According To You' and cuts from her recent studio album O (2020), including lead -off track 'Contagious.'
Pre-order/ Save at orcd.co/orianthilive
The performance, recorded in January 2022 at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood, California, sees the Australian musician and her band on fine form, playing songs such as her first hit 'According To You' and cuts from her recent studio album O (2020), including lead -off track 'Contagious.'
Available on CD/DVD and Blu-ray, Live From Hollywood serves as an appetizer for Orianthi's forthcoming new studio record, which is scheduled for late 2022.
Orianthi’s first major solo artist success as a singer-songwriter-guitarist was with ‘According To You’, which is RIAA-Certified Platinum and has almost 30 million streams on Spotify alone.
Orianthi has also performed with various members of rock royalty including Alice Cooper, Carlos Santana and Steve Vai, while the posthumous release of the Michael Jackson This Is It documentary showcased her masterful playing, creativity and collaboration.
Her many accolades include being named one of the Greatest Female Electric Guitarists by Elle magazine, Breakthrough Guitarist of the Year by Guitar International and one of Gibson Guitars’ Top 10 Female Guitar Players of All Time.
Orianthi – Live From Hollywood – track listing:
Contagious; Sinners Hymn; Heaven In This Hell; Think Like A Man; You Don't Wanna Know; What's It Gonna Be; Courage; Blow; Impulsive; Blues Won't Leave Me Alone; According To You; How Do You Sleep
Orianthi - guitar, vocals; Nick Mayfield – guitar; Carmen Vandenberg – guitar; Justin Andres – bass; Michael Bearden – keyboards; Glen Sobel - drums
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Orianthi’s first major solo artist success as a singer-songwriter-guitarist was with ‘According To You’, which is RIAA-Certified Platinum and has almost 30 million streams on Spotify alone.
Orianthi has also performed with various members of rock royalty including Alice Cooper, Carlos Santana and Steve Vai, while the posthumous release of the Michael Jackson This Is It documentary showcased her masterful playing, creativity and collaboration.
Her many accolades include being named one of the Greatest Female Electric Guitarists by Elle magazine, Breakthrough Guitarist of the Year by Guitar International and one of Gibson Guitars’ Top 10 Female Guitar Players of All Time.
Orianthi – Live From Hollywood – track listing:
Contagious; Sinners Hymn; Heaven In This Hell; Think Like A Man; You Don't Wanna Know; What's It Gonna Be; Courage; Blow; Impulsive; Blues Won't Leave Me Alone; According To You; How Do You Sleep
Orianthi - guitar, vocals; Nick Mayfield – guitar; Carmen Vandenberg – guitar; Justin Andres – bass; Michael Bearden – keyboards; Glen Sobel - drums
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Rapidly rising blues-rock band Kira Mac have released a second single, the hard hitting ‘Dead Man Walking,’ along with accompanying video.
Described by Planet Rock as "rock n roll livewires" Kira Mac’s debut single ‘One Way Ticket’ was Planet Rock’s Track of the Week within two weeks of release. The single then leapt to the Planet Rock A-playlist.
Both songs will feature on the band’s full studio debut album Chaos is Calling, due for release in Autumn 2022.
Described by Planet Rock as "rock n roll livewires" Kira Mac’s debut single ‘One Way Ticket’ was Planet Rock’s Track of the Week within two weeks of release. The single then leapt to the Planet Rock A-playlist.
Both songs will feature on the band’s full studio debut album Chaos is Calling, due for release in Autumn 2022.
Kira Mac is a musical collective made up, as the band proudly proclaim, of "misfits from different corners of the country," from Stoke to Hull, who met by chance in Manchester back in 2018.
Named after their eponymous frontwoman (herself an established writer and vocalist), Kira Mac are built on straight-up, old school blues rock with a modern edge and a double shots of rock ‘n’ roll.
Of the forthcoming album, front woman Kira Mac says, "It’s been in the making from 2015 when (guitarist) Joe Worrall and I met. It’s been a really long time coming - and we've had such an incredible time writing and making it on its little journey - that we hope everyone loves listening as much as we loved making it!
But above everything else, it’s us, and it’s honest."
Kira Mac are:
Kira Mac (lead vocals), Joe Worrall (guitars), Alex Novakovic (guitars), Bret Barnes (bass), Cal Casey (drums)
Kira Mac Live Dates 2022
19th May - Booking Hall, Dover
(supporting Ricky Warwick)
21ST May - Queens Hall, Nuneaton (supporting Ricky Warwick)
22nd May - Picturedrome, Holmfirth (supporting Ricky Warwick)
2nd July - Waterloo Music Bar, Blackpool (supporting Bad Touch and Revival Black).
29th July - Steelhouse Festival
20th Nov - Bannermans, Edinburgh
22nd Nov - Trillians, Newcastle
23rd Nov - Yardbirds, Grimsby
24th Nov - Waterloo, Blackpool
25 Nov - Rigger, Stoke
26th Nov - Asylum, Birmingham
27th Nov - Patriot, Crumlin
29th Nov - Nightrain, Bradford
30th Nov - Bullingdon, Oxford
2nd December - Planet Rockstock, Trecco Bay Holiday Park, South Wales.
Website: http://www.kiramac.com/
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Named after their eponymous frontwoman (herself an established writer and vocalist), Kira Mac are built on straight-up, old school blues rock with a modern edge and a double shots of rock ‘n’ roll.
Of the forthcoming album, front woman Kira Mac says, "It’s been in the making from 2015 when (guitarist) Joe Worrall and I met. It’s been a really long time coming - and we've had such an incredible time writing and making it on its little journey - that we hope everyone loves listening as much as we loved making it!
But above everything else, it’s us, and it’s honest."
Kira Mac are:
Kira Mac (lead vocals), Joe Worrall (guitars), Alex Novakovic (guitars), Bret Barnes (bass), Cal Casey (drums)
Kira Mac Live Dates 2022
19th May - Booking Hall, Dover
(supporting Ricky Warwick)
21ST May - Queens Hall, Nuneaton (supporting Ricky Warwick)
22nd May - Picturedrome, Holmfirth (supporting Ricky Warwick)
2nd July - Waterloo Music Bar, Blackpool (supporting Bad Touch and Revival Black).
29th July - Steelhouse Festival
20th Nov - Bannermans, Edinburgh
22nd Nov - Trillians, Newcastle
23rd Nov - Yardbirds, Grimsby
24th Nov - Waterloo, Blackpool
25 Nov - Rigger, Stoke
26th Nov - Asylum, Birmingham
27th Nov - Patriot, Crumlin
29th Nov - Nightrain, Bradford
30th Nov - Bullingdon, Oxford
2nd December - Planet Rockstock, Trecco Bay Holiday Park, South Wales.
Website: http://www.kiramac.com/
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Following in the wake of critically acclaimed 2020 debut album Flown, Norwegian art rock trio Dim Gray return with the follow-up, Firmament.
Consisting of twelve vivid, melody-driven songs, Firmament makes for an engaging and constantly surprising journey, weaving a route from strings-infused chamber pop, through evocative indie-folk and lush electronics and into grandiose art rock.
Thematically, it explores further the landscape of melancholy and longing that was introduced on Flown, now juxtaposed against romanticised ideas of simpler times through childhood memories interspersed with myths and superstition.
The album will be available on CD, LP (via Plane Groovy) and all digital services, with the physical formats available to pre-order now via Burning Shed: burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings
The first single from the record is ‘Mare’, which was originally written by guitarist Håkon Høiberg in 2016. Singer/ keyboardist Oskar Holldorff explains that "we decided not to include it on Flown but when Håkon attempted to rearrange it in the style of Brian Wilson, circa Pet Sounds, the result sounded inspired.
The lyric, reworked right up until the recording, is about trying to break free of invisible shackles and the yearning for something more."
Consisting of twelve vivid, melody-driven songs, Firmament makes for an engaging and constantly surprising journey, weaving a route from strings-infused chamber pop, through evocative indie-folk and lush electronics and into grandiose art rock.
Thematically, it explores further the landscape of melancholy and longing that was introduced on Flown, now juxtaposed against romanticised ideas of simpler times through childhood memories interspersed with myths and superstition.
The album will be available on CD, LP (via Plane Groovy) and all digital services, with the physical formats available to pre-order now via Burning Shed: burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings
The first single from the record is ‘Mare’, which was originally written by guitarist Håkon Høiberg in 2016. Singer/ keyboardist Oskar Holldorff explains that "we decided not to include it on Flown but when Håkon attempted to rearrange it in the style of Brian Wilson, circa Pet Sounds, the result sounded inspired.
The lyric, reworked right up until the recording, is about trying to break free of invisible shackles and the yearning for something more."
Firmament will be released on English Electric Recordings, the label run by UK prog titans Big Big Train. Gregory Spawton of BBT states: "Until now, the label has just been a vehicle for Big Big Train and outside projects of BBT band members. We have been interested in expanding the label’s activities for some time but only wanted to do so when we came across a truly exciting band that we felt had something new to offer.
When we were introduced to Dim Gray, we saw that the band has enormous potential and were very keen to sign them."
Oskar Holldorff will be touring as part of Big Big Train for a set of already announced dates in September 2022, deputising for BBT keyboard player Carly Bryant.
DIM GRAY:
Oskar Holldorff (vocals, keyboards), Håkon Høiberg (guitars, vocals), Tom Ian Klungland (drums, vocals)
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When we were introduced to Dim Gray, we saw that the band has enormous potential and were very keen to sign them."
Oskar Holldorff will be touring as part of Big Big Train for a set of already announced dates in September 2022, deputising for BBT keyboard player Carly Bryant.
DIM GRAY:
Oskar Holldorff (vocals, keyboards), Håkon Høiberg (guitars, vocals), Tom Ian Klungland (drums, vocals)
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The Quireboys have re-scheduled four dates on their June 2022 UK tour, supported by Troy Redfern.
The dates are Oxford, Bullingdon (June 10th), Southend, Chinnerys (June 11th), Bristol, Thekla (June 17th, and Nottingham, Rescue Rooms (June 18th).
All tickets remain valid. Tickets are available from www.quireboys.com/gigs, seetickets.com, skiddle.com and alttickets.com
Hailed as Britain’s King of slide guitar, Hereford-based singer songwriter-guitarist Troy Redfern and his three-piece band will support The Quireboys at all shows. performing songs from his critically acclaimed album The Fire Cosmic ("Troy Redfern is one of the country’s best players and writers… the album is a blast from start to finish" - MusicNews.com)
The Quireboys will be performing songs from their rich back catalogue including songs from A Bit Of What You Fancy, the iconic debut album that launched their distinctive gypsy rock and roll sound.
A re-recorded/ 30th Anniversary Edition of A Bit of What You Fancy is available on CD with bonus tracks, as well as on Digital and limited-edition vinyl.
Purchase at www.offyerrocka.com/product-category/artists/the-quireboys
The dates are Oxford, Bullingdon (June 10th), Southend, Chinnerys (June 11th), Bristol, Thekla (June 17th, and Nottingham, Rescue Rooms (June 18th).
All tickets remain valid. Tickets are available from www.quireboys.com/gigs, seetickets.com, skiddle.com and alttickets.com
Hailed as Britain’s King of slide guitar, Hereford-based singer songwriter-guitarist Troy Redfern and his three-piece band will support The Quireboys at all shows. performing songs from his critically acclaimed album The Fire Cosmic ("Troy Redfern is one of the country’s best players and writers… the album is a blast from start to finish" - MusicNews.com)
The Quireboys will be performing songs from their rich back catalogue including songs from A Bit Of What You Fancy, the iconic debut album that launched their distinctive gypsy rock and roll sound.
A re-recorded/ 30th Anniversary Edition of A Bit of What You Fancy is available on CD with bonus tracks, as well as on Digital and limited-edition vinyl.
Purchase at www.offyerrocka.com/product-category/artists/the-quireboys
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Celebrated Montreal rock ’n’ roll band The Damn Truth are returning to the UK for 11 dates through October.
The band will support Planet Rock’s Rocktober shows at Bristol O2 Academy (Oct 15th) and Sheffield O2 Academy (Oct 22nd), followed by three dates supporting King King in Northampton (Oct 16th), Southampton (Oct 20th) and Liverpool (Oct 21st).
In addition to the above, the band will headline their own shows at Norwich Waterfront Studio (Oct 18th), Chester Live Rooms (Oct 23rd), Newcastle Cluny (Oct 25th), Glasgow Stereo (Oct 26th), York Fulford Arms (Oct 27th) and London’s Black Heart (Oct 28th).
Tickets are available from www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/The-Damn-Truth.htm
The tour announcement dovetails with the band’s latest single 'Look Innocent,' which is taken from their critically acclaimed album Now or Nowhere, available from www.thedamntruth.com
The band will support Planet Rock’s Rocktober shows at Bristol O2 Academy (Oct 15th) and Sheffield O2 Academy (Oct 22nd), followed by three dates supporting King King in Northampton (Oct 16th), Southampton (Oct 20th) and Liverpool (Oct 21st).
In addition to the above, the band will headline their own shows at Norwich Waterfront Studio (Oct 18th), Chester Live Rooms (Oct 23rd), Newcastle Cluny (Oct 25th), Glasgow Stereo (Oct 26th), York Fulford Arms (Oct 27th) and London’s Black Heart (Oct 28th).
Tickets are available from www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/The-Damn-Truth.htm
The tour announcement dovetails with the band’s latest single 'Look Innocent,' which is taken from their critically acclaimed album Now or Nowhere, available from www.thedamntruth.com
"We’re looking forward to touring the UK again" says lead singer and guitarist, Lee-la Baum. "Last time we played the UK was earlier this year when we supported King King on their February tour. We had a fantastic time, and we can’t wait to return for more fun and excitement. UK audiences are the best!"
"The Damn Truth are a fresh revivalism of the psyche music scene from the mid 60’s; critics and fans alike praise their regeneration of the hard rock sound and values." - Jeff Laufer, Rock Bands of LA website.
The Damn Truth are:
Lee-La Baum (vocals, guitar), Tom Shemer (guitar), PY Letellier (bass), Dave Traina (drums).
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"The Damn Truth are a fresh revivalism of the psyche music scene from the mid 60’s; critics and fans alike praise their regeneration of the hard rock sound and values." - Jeff Laufer, Rock Bands of LA website.
The Damn Truth are:
Lee-La Baum (vocals, guitar), Tom Shemer (guitar), PY Letellier (bass), Dave Traina (drums).
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The life, work and legacy of the late Keith Emerson is to be documented in a lavish and fully illustrated book in which family, friends, colleagues, and fans talk to author Chris Welch about the virtuoso keyboard legend.
This official celebration will tell the tale of Keith Emerson’s musical evolution, his personal relationships and the creation of his astounding musical legacy that includes The Nice, prog supergroup giants ELP, 3 and The Keith Emerson Band.
The book, which can be pre-ordered now, includes new interviews with Keith Emerson’s children, ex-wife, close personal friends and the luminary likes of Carl Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Lee Jackson, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, Alan White, Dave Kilminster, Marc Bonilla and Geoff Downes, among many others.
The book also draws on the private Emerson family archives for photographs of Keith Emerson at home, at work and play.
Keith Emerson played the Hammond organ like a lead guitarist; he introduced the European classical music tradition to rock fans with The Nice and helped create the template for prog-rock with the very first Moog synthesizers with ELP.
He wrote movie soundtracks, performed with world-renowned jazz musicians and toured the world as a solo artist.
All of the above and more is explored in this deluxe book, which comes in two versions – the Classic Edition and a Limited Signature Edition; the latter is signed by Chris Welch and Aaron Emerson, comes in a clamshell box and includes an archival quality art print portrait of Keith Emerson, a CD of an unheard interview and specially created sheet music of Keith’s first ever original composition 'Quatermass Boogie Woogie,' which was a hand-written score by the then 12-year-old, in 1956.
In a poignant family connection, Keith Emerson's grandson Ethan Emerson can be seen in the video below playing 'Quatermass Boogie Woogie' on his grandfather's upright Steinway – on which Keith taught Ethan to play.
This official celebration will tell the tale of Keith Emerson’s musical evolution, his personal relationships and the creation of his astounding musical legacy that includes The Nice, prog supergroup giants ELP, 3 and The Keith Emerson Band.
The book, which can be pre-ordered now, includes new interviews with Keith Emerson’s children, ex-wife, close personal friends and the luminary likes of Carl Palmer, Rick Wakeman, Lee Jackson, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, Alan White, Dave Kilminster, Marc Bonilla and Geoff Downes, among many others.
The book also draws on the private Emerson family archives for photographs of Keith Emerson at home, at work and play.
Keith Emerson played the Hammond organ like a lead guitarist; he introduced the European classical music tradition to rock fans with The Nice and helped create the template for prog-rock with the very first Moog synthesizers with ELP.
He wrote movie soundtracks, performed with world-renowned jazz musicians and toured the world as a solo artist.
All of the above and more is explored in this deluxe book, which comes in two versions – the Classic Edition and a Limited Signature Edition; the latter is signed by Chris Welch and Aaron Emerson, comes in a clamshell box and includes an archival quality art print portrait of Keith Emerson, a CD of an unheard interview and specially created sheet music of Keith’s first ever original composition 'Quatermass Boogie Woogie,' which was a hand-written score by the then 12-year-old, in 1956.
In a poignant family connection, Keith Emerson's grandson Ethan Emerson can be seen in the video below playing 'Quatermass Boogie Woogie' on his grandfather's upright Steinway – on which Keith taught Ethan to play.
Registering & Pre-ordering at www.keithemersonbook.com will ensure a special discount with your pre-order, as well as allowing for your name to be printed in the book as part of this unique project.
The book is due for publication in Autumn 2022.
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The book is due for publication in Autumn 2022.
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Melodic rock and blues songstress Rebecca Downes has just released a brand new single 'Hold On.'
The song a purposeful slice of lyrically positive rock-blues, was written by Rebecca Downes and her songwriting partner & guitarist Steve Birkett.
'Hold On' is also the first track to be previewed from the next Rebecca Downs album, which will be released later in 2022.
Of the single and album, Rebecca Downes says "All these songs are always close to out hearts, but with the songs on this new album it’s even more so, because it was written during a really bad time for all of us – but it’s an album of hope, much like the single, Hold On, is."
The song a purposeful slice of lyrically positive rock-blues, was written by Rebecca Downes and her songwriting partner & guitarist Steve Birkett.
'Hold On' is also the first track to be previewed from the next Rebecca Downs album, which will be released later in 2022.
Of the single and album, Rebecca Downes says "All these songs are always close to out hearts, but with the songs on this new album it’s even more so, because it was written during a really bad time for all of us – but it’s an album of hope, much like the single, Hold On, is."
'Hold On' is released on Mad Hat Records by Rebecca Downes Music Ltd.
Rebecca Downes - lead vocals; Steve Birkett - guitars, electric piano, backing vocals; Neil Ablard - drums; Nigel Darvil - Hammond; Vince Yarrington - bass guitar
Hold On video by Neil Ablard
Rebecca Downes’ latest album Stripped Back is available at https://lnk.to/zhB3lnLO
On-line Shop: https://www.rebeccadownes.com/shop
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Rebecca Downes - lead vocals; Steve Birkett - guitars, electric piano, backing vocals; Neil Ablard - drums; Nigel Darvil - Hammond; Vince Yarrington - bass guitar
Hold On video by Neil Ablard
Rebecca Downes’ latest album Stripped Back is available at https://lnk.to/zhB3lnLO
On-line Shop: https://www.rebeccadownes.com/shop
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Asia have announced the release of Asia In Asia Live At The Budokan Tokyo 1983 as a Deluxe box set containing 2LP, 2xCD, 40 page 12” book, Blu-ray video, printed memorabilia and Asia pin badge.
Released through BMG Records on 10th June, it will also be available on 2LP Gatefold, CD and Digital.
Pre-order here: https://asiaband.lnk.to/budokanPR
Asia, featuring Geoff Downes, Steve Howe and Carl Palmer, with special guest Greg Lake, visited Japan at the end of two years of touring to promote their phenomenally successful eponymous debut album (1982) and follow-up Alpha (1983).
The second of three shows at the historic Budokan arena in Tokyo, the 6th December 1983 show made history as the first live broadcast between Japan and MTV in America (this historic performance has previously only been available on VHS).
Released through BMG Records on 10th June, it will also be available on 2LP Gatefold, CD and Digital.
Pre-order here: https://asiaband.lnk.to/budokanPR
Asia, featuring Geoff Downes, Steve Howe and Carl Palmer, with special guest Greg Lake, visited Japan at the end of two years of touring to promote their phenomenally successful eponymous debut album (1982) and follow-up Alpha (1983).
The second of three shows at the historic Budokan arena in Tokyo, the 6th December 1983 show made history as the first live broadcast between Japan and MTV in America (this historic performance has previously only been available on VHS).
Following the sudden departure of John Wetton in September 1983, Greg Lake stepped in at short notice for the December Japanese dates; despite a short period for Lake to learn the songs, and some changes to the arrangements to accommodate his vocal range, the Japanese shows were a great success.
"Greg Lake did a great job jumping into John’s shoes. So many songs to sing, and he did it so well. It was impressive." - Carl Palmer
"The show was an important global commitment, so we had to rise to the occasion, which we did, with Greg’s help. We couldn't have done it without him, for sure." - Steve Howe
"It was a grand and sumptuous affair; I think we pulled it off admirably in the end.
There were some good people behind us: crew, lighting designers, cameramen and backing singers, it was quite a production and it deserves its place in the Asia catalogue; it demonstrates the level of professionalism that we have always striven to bring to the Asia name." - Geoff Downes
The newly packaged Asia In Asia box set includes:
Exclusive new artwork by Roger Dean.
Colour vinyl 2LP and 2xCD of original 6th December 1983 (US Time) MTV Telecast concert audio, remixed 2022 from the master tapes by Matt Wiggins and Rick Nelson.
Live at The Budokan Arena, Tokyo, Japan, previous night’s show (Japanese Time), remixed 2022 from the master tapes by Hiroki Furutani.
Audio-visual Blu-ray of restored original broadcast concert with 2022 remixed audio plus restored original concert laserdisc featuring alternate camera angles.
40 page, deluxe 12” book with rare and unseen band photos, memorabilia and new sleeve notes & quotes from the original band members. New metal and enamel Asia logo pin badge
Printed memorabilia; 2xnew Roger Dean artwork A3 posters; 2xReproduced live broadcast concert tickets; Replicated of original matt laminated AAA backstage pass; Original concert VHS advert; 3 rare band photos.
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"Greg Lake did a great job jumping into John’s shoes. So many songs to sing, and he did it so well. It was impressive." - Carl Palmer
"The show was an important global commitment, so we had to rise to the occasion, which we did, with Greg’s help. We couldn't have done it without him, for sure." - Steve Howe
"It was a grand and sumptuous affair; I think we pulled it off admirably in the end.
There were some good people behind us: crew, lighting designers, cameramen and backing singers, it was quite a production and it deserves its place in the Asia catalogue; it demonstrates the level of professionalism that we have always striven to bring to the Asia name." - Geoff Downes
The newly packaged Asia In Asia box set includes:
Exclusive new artwork by Roger Dean.
Colour vinyl 2LP and 2xCD of original 6th December 1983 (US Time) MTV Telecast concert audio, remixed 2022 from the master tapes by Matt Wiggins and Rick Nelson.
Live at The Budokan Arena, Tokyo, Japan, previous night’s show (Japanese Time), remixed 2022 from the master tapes by Hiroki Furutani.
Audio-visual Blu-ray of restored original broadcast concert with 2022 remixed audio plus restored original concert laserdisc featuring alternate camera angles.
40 page, deluxe 12” book with rare and unseen band photos, memorabilia and new sleeve notes & quotes from the original band members. New metal and enamel Asia logo pin badge
Printed memorabilia; 2xnew Roger Dean artwork A3 posters; 2xReproduced live broadcast concert tickets; Replicated of original matt laminated AAA backstage pass; Original concert VHS advert; 3 rare band photos.
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Atmospheric harmony-progressives The Blackheart Orchestra (featuring the talents of multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn (who also features as lead vocalist) and Rick Pilkington, who adds dovetailing harmony and backing vocals) have just released a new single Under The Headlights.
You can download, view or add the single to your playlists at https://linktr.ee/theblackheartorchestra
The song, as detailed by the band, is "about all those anxieties that keep us awake at night and learning to let go of these; surrendering to what is and realising that even though we may be just small specks of flickering lights we are all part of something bigger, we all matter and deserve to be seen."
The song also features the voice of 1960’s British philosopher Alan Watts, from one of his famous lectures, Myth of Myself.
The video was shot in two very differing locations – London, and only a few feet from the edge of the high cliffs at Birling Gap, South Downs.
The latter is, sadly, Britain’s third most popular suicide location, which brings even more poignancy and considered reflection to the song.
You can download, view or add the single to your playlists at https://linktr.ee/theblackheartorchestra
The song, as detailed by the band, is "about all those anxieties that keep us awake at night and learning to let go of these; surrendering to what is and realising that even though we may be just small specks of flickering lights we are all part of something bigger, we all matter and deserve to be seen."
The song also features the voice of 1960’s British philosopher Alan Watts, from one of his famous lectures, Myth of Myself.
The video was shot in two very differing locations – London, and only a few feet from the edge of the high cliffs at Birling Gap, South Downs.
The latter is, sadly, Britain’s third most popular suicide location, which brings even more poignancy and considered reflection to the song.
The Blackheart Orchestra are currently touring the UK
May 25 LONDON Grace
May 26 MANCHESTER Gullivers
May 28 FALMOUTH The Tolmen Centre
May 29 ST.AUSTELL Arts Centre
June 1 SHEFFIELD Greystones
June 9 HALIFAX Square Chapel
Tickets https://www.theblackheartorchestra.com/shows/
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May 25 LONDON Grace
May 26 MANCHESTER Gullivers
May 28 FALMOUTH The Tolmen Centre
May 29 ST.AUSTELL Arts Centre
June 1 SHEFFIELD Greystones
June 9 HALIFAX Square Chapel
Tickets https://www.theblackheartorchestra.com/shows/
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Canadian heavy metal stalwarts Anvil have just released their brand-new studio album, Impact Is Imminent, via AFM Records.
The band will also play ten dates in the UK in October.
Anvil, one of the most distinctive and recognisable bands in heavy metal, are cited as having influenced such notable acts as Slayer, Megadeath, Metallica and Anthrax.
After forty years in the music industry, from touring the world to garnering critical acclaim for Anvil! The Story Of Anvil – the Number 1 music documentary for metalheads – the iconic band returns with their nineteenth album.
On Impact Is Imminent, Anvil fire off their trademark and merciless riff attacks, relentless drums and incessant bass grooves, complemented by vocals and lyrics that are geared to drill themselves into the listener’s aural tract.
As always, Steve "Lips" Kudlow (vocals, guitar) and Robb Reiner (drums) are the epicentre of the Anvil metal sound, supported these past eight years by Chris Robertson (bass, backing vocals).
The new album has been preceded by, first, pedal to the (heavy) metal lead-off single 'Ghost Shadow,' and now a second single, 'Take a Lesson,' complete with 'Dave Groh intro' on the Official Music Video...
The band will also play ten dates in the UK in October.
Anvil, one of the most distinctive and recognisable bands in heavy metal, are cited as having influenced such notable acts as Slayer, Megadeath, Metallica and Anthrax.
After forty years in the music industry, from touring the world to garnering critical acclaim for Anvil! The Story Of Anvil – the Number 1 music documentary for metalheads – the iconic band returns with their nineteenth album.
On Impact Is Imminent, Anvil fire off their trademark and merciless riff attacks, relentless drums and incessant bass grooves, complemented by vocals and lyrics that are geared to drill themselves into the listener’s aural tract.
As always, Steve "Lips" Kudlow (vocals, guitar) and Robb Reiner (drums) are the epicentre of the Anvil metal sound, supported these past eight years by Chris Robertson (bass, backing vocals).
The new album has been preceded by, first, pedal to the (heavy) metal lead-off single 'Ghost Shadow,' and now a second single, 'Take a Lesson,' complete with 'Dave Groh intro' on the Official Music Video...
As regards the album itself, Anvil’s iconic front-man continues:
"None of our previous albums blends music and lyrics into as tight a unit as Impact Is Imminent’ Everything comes together homogeneously and as a result, the new material sounds monolithic, down to the last detail, both in terms of rhythm and harmonies.
In the past, our studio sessions were sometimes like a little like jumping in at the deep end, with us having to improvise a lot and making decisions at short notice, but there was plenty of time for the song writing process in the run-up to recording this album."
Like its three predecessors Anvil Is Anvil (2016), Pounding The Pavement (2018) and Legal At Last (2019), Impact Is Imminent was produced by Martin “Mattes” Pfeiffer and Jörg Uken at Uken’s Soundlodge studios
For album pre-ordering and info on all formats (CD, Vinyl, Digital formats) head to:
https://shop.afm-records.de/anvil/
Anvil UK 2022 Tour Dates:
3rd Oct, The Parish, Huddersfield
4th Oct, The Live Rooms, Chester
6th Oct, The Robin 2, Wolverhampton
7th Oct, The Key Club, Leeds
11th Oct, The Crew/Queens Hall, Nuneaton
12th Oct, The Waterfront Studio, Norwich
13th Oct, O2 Islington, London
16th Oct, The Cobblestones, Bridgewater
18th Oct, The 1865, Southampton
19th Oct, The Anvil, Bournemouth
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"None of our previous albums blends music and lyrics into as tight a unit as Impact Is Imminent’ Everything comes together homogeneously and as a result, the new material sounds monolithic, down to the last detail, both in terms of rhythm and harmonies.
In the past, our studio sessions were sometimes like a little like jumping in at the deep end, with us having to improvise a lot and making decisions at short notice, but there was plenty of time for the song writing process in the run-up to recording this album."
Like its three predecessors Anvil Is Anvil (2016), Pounding The Pavement (2018) and Legal At Last (2019), Impact Is Imminent was produced by Martin “Mattes” Pfeiffer and Jörg Uken at Uken’s Soundlodge studios
For album pre-ordering and info on all formats (CD, Vinyl, Digital formats) head to:
https://shop.afm-records.de/anvil/
Anvil UK 2022 Tour Dates:
3rd Oct, The Parish, Huddersfield
4th Oct, The Live Rooms, Chester
6th Oct, The Robin 2, Wolverhampton
7th Oct, The Key Club, Leeds
11th Oct, The Crew/Queens Hall, Nuneaton
12th Oct, The Waterfront Studio, Norwich
13th Oct, O2 Islington, London
16th Oct, The Cobblestones, Bridgewater
18th Oct, The 1865, Southampton
19th Oct, The Anvil, Bournemouth
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Robert Jon & The Wreck have released a new single entitled 'Waiting For Your Man' on Joe Bonamassa’s KTBA Records.
The single is available to stream here:
https://bit.ly/wfymsingle
The song, a raucous 'relationship' boogie, dovetails with the band’s 12-date UK tour which is currently running.
See poster below for full venue & date listings.
Tickets are available from:
https://www.alttickets.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets and
www.gigantic.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets.
Special Guest on the tours is Welsh singer songwriter Laura Evans.
Born in the valleys of south Wales, Laura Evans’ love of country, soul and blues music started early when she listened to records by Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, Bonnie Raitt and Faith Hill.
Laura's debut album State of Mind will be released on 1st July. Her new single 'I'm Alright' is out now
(the Official Music Video for 'I'm Alright' can be viewed here)
The 2022 UK tour follows the release of the band’s critically acclaimed studio album Shine A Light On Me Brother. The album features the uplifting, feel-good title track and 'Everyday;' both received airplay on UK rock radio including Planet Rock, BBC Radio 2, The Max, Total Rock, MMH Radio, ERB Radio, and Radio Caroline.
Shine A Light On Me Brother is available from www.robertjonandthewreck.com
The single is available to stream here:
https://bit.ly/wfymsingle
The song, a raucous 'relationship' boogie, dovetails with the band’s 12-date UK tour which is currently running.
See poster below for full venue & date listings.
Tickets are available from:
https://www.alttickets.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets and
www.gigantic.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets.
Special Guest on the tours is Welsh singer songwriter Laura Evans.
Born in the valleys of south Wales, Laura Evans’ love of country, soul and blues music started early when she listened to records by Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, Bonnie Raitt and Faith Hill.
Laura's debut album State of Mind will be released on 1st July. Her new single 'I'm Alright' is out now
(the Official Music Video for 'I'm Alright' can be viewed here)
The 2022 UK tour follows the release of the band’s critically acclaimed studio album Shine A Light On Me Brother. The album features the uplifting, feel-good title track and 'Everyday;' both received airplay on UK rock radio including Planet Rock, BBC Radio 2, The Max, Total Rock, MMH Radio, ERB Radio, and Radio Caroline.
Shine A Light On Me Brother is available from www.robertjonandthewreck.com
RJ&TW has received numerous accolades, including many Best Rock and Best Blues nominations and winning the title of Best Live Band at the Orange County Music Awards in 2013.
The have been praised as "classic and fresh at the same time" (Rock The Best Music), "Raising the bar for the Southern genre" (Blues Rock Review) and "keeping the history of classic 60’s and 70’s rock alive for newer generations" (Joe Bonamassa).
Robert Jon & The Wreck have supported a veritable whos who of rock & blues, including the likes of Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, Eric Gales, Living Colour, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Walter Trout, Rival Sons, The Cadillac Three, Black Stone Cherry and the Devon Allman Band
The have been praised as "classic and fresh at the same time" (Rock The Best Music), "Raising the bar for the Southern genre" (Blues Rock Review) and "keeping the history of classic 60’s and 70’s rock alive for newer generations" (Joe Bonamassa).
Robert Jon & The Wreck have supported a veritable whos who of rock & blues, including the likes of Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, Eric Gales, Living Colour, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Walter Trout, Rival Sons, The Cadillac Three, Black Stone Cherry and the Devon Allman Band
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Florida based Canadian rock and roll legend Pat Travers, one of the most indomitable guitar slingers of his generation, has returned with a rockin' new single.
'Push Yourself' is a horn-backed rock n roll swinger of a song, one that lyricises the need for motivation, as Travers himself confirms: "Push Yourself is a mantra I use when I need to get my ass in gear and get stuff done. Pretty simple!"
You can stream the new single at: https://orcd.co/pat_travers_push_yourself
The Official Music Video for 'Push Yourself' features recent live footage of Pat Travers and his band intercut with scenes from the 2020 Lynyrd Skynyrd dramatization Street Survivors: The True Story Of The Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash.
'Push Yourself' is a horn-backed rock n roll swinger of a song, one that lyricises the need for motivation, as Travers himself confirms: "Push Yourself is a mantra I use when I need to get my ass in gear and get stuff done. Pretty simple!"
You can stream the new single at: https://orcd.co/pat_travers_push_yourself
The Official Music Video for 'Push Yourself' features recent live footage of Pat Travers and his band intercut with scenes from the 2020 Lynyrd Skynyrd dramatization Street Survivors: The True Story Of The Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash.
In addition to the single being available on all digital platforms, it has also been pressed on limited edition Red and Silver coloured 7" vinyl, backed by another new cut 'Full Spectrum.'
Order here: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/pat-travers-push-yourself-limited-edition-colored-7-vinyl/
'Push Yourself' and 'Full Spectrum' are set to feature on Pat Travers’ long awaited new studio album, coming later this year on Cleopatra Records.
The new album will be the first of all-new material from Pat Travers since Retro Rocket in 2015 and first studio release since his mini-album of rocked up jump-jive covers, Swing!, in 2019.
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Order here: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/pat-travers-push-yourself-limited-edition-colored-7-vinyl/
'Push Yourself' and 'Full Spectrum' are set to feature on Pat Travers’ long awaited new studio album, coming later this year on Cleopatra Records.
The new album will be the first of all-new material from Pat Travers since Retro Rocket in 2015 and first studio release since his mini-album of rocked up jump-jive covers, Swing!, in 2019.
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London based hard blues rock guitarist, singer & songwriter Jack J Hutchinson has announced an autumn 2022 UK headline tour (plus three festival appearance) in support of his forthcoming EP What Doesn’t Kill You, mixed by legendary producer Kevin Shirley (The Black Crowes, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin, Joe Bonamassa).
As Jack J Hutchinson enthusiastically comments, "This autumn marks five years since my debut solo album, and we will be celebrating with a set that features highlights from my whole back catalogue.
I’ve somehow clocked up seven records in that time, so it will be a mix between the heavier stuff from my recent album The Hammer Falls, plus some of the blues material I first became known for.
We’ll also be playing new material from my forthcoming EP What Doesn’t Kill You, which will be released later this year."
Hutchinson’s latest and current full length release, The Hammer Falls, which includes the weighty, guitar-driven title track, was a highly and widely received release by listeners and press alike:
"The songcraft remains magnetic and nimble" (Classic Rock Magazine)
"A feeling of soul and grit in his souped up blues" (Powerplay Magazine)
"The Hammer Falls, the reverberating impact is heard" (FabricationsHQ)
As Jack J Hutchinson enthusiastically comments, "This autumn marks five years since my debut solo album, and we will be celebrating with a set that features highlights from my whole back catalogue.
I’ve somehow clocked up seven records in that time, so it will be a mix between the heavier stuff from my recent album The Hammer Falls, plus some of the blues material I first became known for.
We’ll also be playing new material from my forthcoming EP What Doesn’t Kill You, which will be released later this year."
Hutchinson’s latest and current full length release, The Hammer Falls, which includes the weighty, guitar-driven title track, was a highly and widely received release by listeners and press alike:
"The songcraft remains magnetic and nimble" (Classic Rock Magazine)
"A feeling of soul and grit in his souped up blues" (Powerplay Magazine)
"The Hammer Falls, the reverberating impact is heard" (FabricationsHQ)
"The Hammer Falls album contains the heaviest music I have ever written, with big riffs and choruses that are perfect for live shows. It’s also my most personal record to date, one that ultimately leaves the listener with a positive energy, which so many listeners have commented on." - Jack J Hutchnson
Jack J Hutchinson – Autumn UK Headline Tour + Festival Dates
Click here for ticket information
7th October – The Railway, Winchester
8th October – The Brickmakers, Norwich
9th October – The Crauford Arms, Milton Keynes
14th October – The Thunderbolt, Bristol
19th October – Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
20th October – The Waterloo, BlackpooL
21st October – Trillians, Newcastle
22nd October – HRH Blues V Crows, Liverpool
12th November – St Austell Band Club
19th November – Whitby Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival
2th December – Looe Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival
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Jack J Hutchinson – Autumn UK Headline Tour + Festival Dates
Click here for ticket information
7th October – The Railway, Winchester
8th October – The Brickmakers, Norwich
9th October – The Crauford Arms, Milton Keynes
14th October – The Thunderbolt, Bristol
19th October – Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
20th October – The Waterloo, BlackpooL
21st October – Trillians, Newcastle
22nd October – HRH Blues V Crows, Liverpool
12th November – St Austell Band Club
19th November – Whitby Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival
2th December – Looe Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival
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Swedish hard melodic rockers H.E.A.T have announced the forthcoming release of their new studio album Force Majeure on earMusic.
The album, released on August 5th, will be available in the following formats: CD Digipak, 2LP Gatefold and Limited Edition Coloured 2LP (Yellow). Pre-order here: https://Heat.lnk.to/ForceMajeure
The last two years have been marked by exactly what has given H.E.A.T’s new album its name; but such forces haven’t stopped H.E.A.T returning with a new album as well as the return of vocalist Kenny Leckremo.
The band’s original singer was seen and heard fronting the band once again on lead-off single, and accompanying video, for 'Nationwide' and now new single 'Back to the Rhythm.'
Additionally, for the Official Music Videos (and album artwork) the vibrant, fictional world of H.E.A.T City has been built; on 'Back to the Rhythm' it lays the foundation for the upcoming release of Force Majeure.
The album, released on August 5th, will be available in the following formats: CD Digipak, 2LP Gatefold and Limited Edition Coloured 2LP (Yellow). Pre-order here: https://Heat.lnk.to/ForceMajeure
The last two years have been marked by exactly what has given H.E.A.T’s new album its name; but such forces haven’t stopped H.E.A.T returning with a new album as well as the return of vocalist Kenny Leckremo.
The band’s original singer was seen and heard fronting the band once again on lead-off single, and accompanying video, for 'Nationwide' and now new single 'Back to the Rhythm.'
Additionally, for the Official Music Videos (and album artwork) the vibrant, fictional world of H.E.A.T City has been built; on 'Back to the Rhythm' it lays the foundation for the upcoming release of Force Majeure.
Play/ stream the new single at https://Heat.lnk.to/BackToTheRhythm
Following the band’s Scandinavian dates the band will undertake a full European tour, including five UK dates in October. Tickets: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/h-e-a-t
H.E.A.T UK Dates (with special guests Mason Hill and Collateral)
Leeds, Warehouse - Friday 14th October
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Saturday 15th October
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Sunday 16th October
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Monday 17th October
London, Electric Brixton - Tuesday 18th October
H.E.A.T are:
Kenny Leckremo – Lead Vocals; Dave Dalone – Guitars; Jona Tee – Keyboards; Jimmy Jay – Bass
Don Crash – Drums
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Following the band’s Scandinavian dates the band will undertake a full European tour, including five UK dates in October. Tickets: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/h-e-a-t
H.E.A.T UK Dates (with special guests Mason Hill and Collateral)
Leeds, Warehouse - Friday 14th October
Wolverhampton, KK’s Steel Mill - Saturday 15th October
Swansea, Patti Pavilion - Sunday 16th October
Nottingham, Rescue Rooms - Monday 17th October
London, Electric Brixton - Tuesday 18th October
H.E.A.T are:
Kenny Leckremo – Lead Vocals; Dave Dalone – Guitars; Jona Tee – Keyboards; Jimmy Jay – Bass
Don Crash – Drums
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Riff based blues-rock-soul trio Blue Nation have released a brand-new single, 'I Feel Low.'
The single, available via all streaming services, is a moody, thick riffed and heavy soul blueprint of what can be expected from the Birmingham based band in 2022; 'I Feel Low introduces' itself as the first single from, and taster of, forthcoming EP Echoes, which will be released later in the year.
Of the song, the band's singer-guitarist Neil Murdoch says "it’s about a friend of mine who crossed a line with not only me but the band. It’s the conversations we had together and how eventually we fell out and never spoke again; the only thing to do was to write about it and let the emotion go that was dragging me down.
The work that Trevor Gibson (recording/ production/ mixing) put in, the class bass lines from Luke Weston and the amazing drumming of Ben Brannelly just blows my head off!"
The single, available via all streaming services, is a moody, thick riffed and heavy soul blueprint of what can be expected from the Birmingham based band in 2022; 'I Feel Low introduces' itself as the first single from, and taster of, forthcoming EP Echoes, which will be released later in the year.
Of the song, the band's singer-guitarist Neil Murdoch says "it’s about a friend of mine who crossed a line with not only me but the band. It’s the conversations we had together and how eventually we fell out and never spoke again; the only thing to do was to write about it and let the emotion go that was dragging me down.
The work that Trevor Gibson (recording/ production/ mixing) put in, the class bass lines from Luke Weston and the amazing drumming of Ben Brannelly just blows my head off!"
Blue Nation, who released the half-acoustic/ half-electric Live From The Front Room on all download and streaming sites in 2021, fuse their classic meets contemporary rock-blues-soul sound from a reservoir of influences including the Beatles, Cream, Zeppelin, 90s Brit Pop and, more recently, Rival Sons and Vintage Trouble.
All such influences, and the stylish Blue Nation sound, were heard to fine effect on the band’s last, and to date best, 2018 studio album The Kaftan Society.
Blue Nation have played top venues in the major cities of the UK as well as further afield, including two tours of NYC’s Greenwich Village and Manhattan.
Prestigious performances include the Main Music Stage @ F1 British Grand Prix Silverstone (twice), main support to Toploader @ Rhuddfest and tours with the likes of Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey’s Alive & Dangerous, Von Hertzen Brothers, King King and Kris Barras, to name but six.
The band’s quirkiest performance to date was an acoustic set at The Tramlines Festival, Sheffield - on a moving Tram!
Blue Nation have been featured by Planet Rock as "Ones to Watch" and were Winners of The Introducing Stage at the Great British Rock & Blues Festival 2022.
Live From The Front Room, a weekly acoustic Facebook, YouTube, Twitch & Twitter live stream, has now notched up over 100 shows. As it moved into its second year it had raised over £1250 for Mind and The NHS.
Website: https://www.bluenation.co.uk/
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All such influences, and the stylish Blue Nation sound, were heard to fine effect on the band’s last, and to date best, 2018 studio album The Kaftan Society.
Blue Nation have played top venues in the major cities of the UK as well as further afield, including two tours of NYC’s Greenwich Village and Manhattan.
Prestigious performances include the Main Music Stage @ F1 British Grand Prix Silverstone (twice), main support to Toploader @ Rhuddfest and tours with the likes of Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey’s Alive & Dangerous, Von Hertzen Brothers, King King and Kris Barras, to name but six.
The band’s quirkiest performance to date was an acoustic set at The Tramlines Festival, Sheffield - on a moving Tram!
Blue Nation have been featured by Planet Rock as "Ones to Watch" and were Winners of The Introducing Stage at the Great British Rock & Blues Festival 2022.
Live From The Front Room, a weekly acoustic Facebook, YouTube, Twitch & Twitter live stream, has now notched up over 100 shows. As it moved into its second year it had raised over £1250 for Mind and The NHS.
Website: https://www.bluenation.co.uk/
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Making the most of an unforeseen opportunity.
Earlier in April Jack Mylchreest, a singer-songwriter musician from the north east of England, stepped in to play a set when it was announced Dan Reed was unable to make it to Whitby for his solo show.
The crowd asked if Mylchreest would do the gig, having seen him get up to sing a song with Danny Vaughn at Vaughan's own show the night before. Jack Mylchreest vlogged the sequence of events and put a ten minute synopsis including live clips on his YouTube channel (below).
Whether it helps the genuinely talented Jack Mylchreest get another rung up the ladder or help get more exposure for his current single, the country-tinged guitar jangle & harmonies of 'Safe With You' (and earlier, contemporary rock-blues styled 3-track EP Pushing The Limit) remains to be seen, but no matter what the future brings it's going to be one of those moments you never forget as an aspiring musician.
Earlier in April Jack Mylchreest, a singer-songwriter musician from the north east of England, stepped in to play a set when it was announced Dan Reed was unable to make it to Whitby for his solo show.
The crowd asked if Mylchreest would do the gig, having seen him get up to sing a song with Danny Vaughn at Vaughan's own show the night before. Jack Mylchreest vlogged the sequence of events and put a ten minute synopsis including live clips on his YouTube channel (below).
Whether it helps the genuinely talented Jack Mylchreest get another rung up the ladder or help get more exposure for his current single, the country-tinged guitar jangle & harmonies of 'Safe With You' (and earlier, contemporary rock-blues styled 3-track EP Pushing The Limit) remains to be seen, but no matter what the future brings it's going to be one of those moments you never forget as an aspiring musician.
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Old school guitar rock quintet Burnt Out Wreck, fronted by and featuring Gary Moat, will release their as yet untitled third album toward the end of the year.
The new album, the follow-up to 2019’s well received This is Hell, features new guitarist Richard Upson, who join Gary Moat (lead vocals, songwriter), Paul Gray (drums), Alex Carmichael (bass) and guitarist Andy McLaughlan, who will be part of the band for upcoming live work.
Additionally, the band have just celebrated their return to Bonfest, where McLaughlan and Upson made their BOW debuts.
Burnt Out Wreck also recently confirmed their gig at Bannermans in Edinburgh has been rescheduled from March 19th to December 2nd.
Click here for ticket info.
The band’s confirmed dates for 2022 are listed below; more festival slots are expected to be announced shortly.
Winsterfest – Greenview Farm, Pikehall, Derbyshire; 27th - 30th May (BOW 27th)
HRH Sleaze - Sheffield; 27th & 28th August (BOW 28th)
Alva, Clackmannanshire; 3rd September
Bannermans, Edinburgh; 2nd December
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The new album, the follow-up to 2019’s well received This is Hell, features new guitarist Richard Upson, who join Gary Moat (lead vocals, songwriter), Paul Gray (drums), Alex Carmichael (bass) and guitarist Andy McLaughlan, who will be part of the band for upcoming live work.
Additionally, the band have just celebrated their return to Bonfest, where McLaughlan and Upson made their BOW debuts.
Burnt Out Wreck also recently confirmed their gig at Bannermans in Edinburgh has been rescheduled from March 19th to December 2nd.
Click here for ticket info.
The band’s confirmed dates for 2022 are listed below; more festival slots are expected to be announced shortly.
Winsterfest – Greenview Farm, Pikehall, Derbyshire; 27th - 30th May (BOW 27th)
HRH Sleaze - Sheffield; 27th & 28th August (BOW 28th)
Alva, Clackmannanshire; 3rd September
Bannermans, Edinburgh; 2nd December
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We’re in the era where the giants, icons and greats of music, in whatever genre, are "of an age."
The inevitable consequence of which is those of us who support, promote and write about music, and such greats, are writing more obituary or musical memorial pieces than ever before – to the degree that pieces on the loss of an artist who had entertained us for decades are starting to catch up on pieces on new releases by artists who are still performing after those same decades.
And then there’s the tragedy of those gone too young, whether by accident, fate of illness or, whether people choose to accept it or not, self-inflicted design.
The loss of Taylor Hawkins at 50 years old was one such tragedy, and a musician who more than earned the thousands of epitaphs written to his career and memory these last few days (although the “loss of a brother” bandwagon jumping epistles by some, who had never even met the man, was disheartening to say the least; an attempt to up one’s profile while loved ones and family members are arranging a funeral).
And then there’s the inconceivable, numbing and truly unfair.
I’m not going to pretend to have been any sort of fan of The Wanted but the passing of Tom Parker, whose only crime was to be in a relatively short-lived but well-loved boy band who sold 12 million albums worldwide before going solo and making appearances on a number of TV shows and documentaries, is a tragedy beyond any musical value (or commodity) or measure.
In October 2020 Tom Parker confirmed he had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour; In January of 2021, the singer posted that his tumour had been "significantly reduced" while continuing treatments. In November of that same year he confirmed the tumour was "stable."
Tom Parker, who was positive and upbeat throughout, suffered a sudden deterioration; he died at the age of 33 on Wednesday 30th March. He leaves a wife, Kelsey Hardwick, and two young children.
Of his loss, Kelsey said “we can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.”
Raise a glass and mourn all the rock ‘n’ roll greats lost in recent years, months just passed and last few days – but take a moment to remember Tom Parker while you're at it.
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The inevitable consequence of which is those of us who support, promote and write about music, and such greats, are writing more obituary or musical memorial pieces than ever before – to the degree that pieces on the loss of an artist who had entertained us for decades are starting to catch up on pieces on new releases by artists who are still performing after those same decades.
And then there’s the tragedy of those gone too young, whether by accident, fate of illness or, whether people choose to accept it or not, self-inflicted design.
The loss of Taylor Hawkins at 50 years old was one such tragedy, and a musician who more than earned the thousands of epitaphs written to his career and memory these last few days (although the “loss of a brother” bandwagon jumping epistles by some, who had never even met the man, was disheartening to say the least; an attempt to up one’s profile while loved ones and family members are arranging a funeral).
And then there’s the inconceivable, numbing and truly unfair.
I’m not going to pretend to have been any sort of fan of The Wanted but the passing of Tom Parker, whose only crime was to be in a relatively short-lived but well-loved boy band who sold 12 million albums worldwide before going solo and making appearances on a number of TV shows and documentaries, is a tragedy beyond any musical value (or commodity) or measure.
In October 2020 Tom Parker confirmed he had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour; In January of 2021, the singer posted that his tumour had been "significantly reduced" while continuing treatments. In November of that same year he confirmed the tumour was "stable."
Tom Parker, who was positive and upbeat throughout, suffered a sudden deterioration; he died at the age of 33 on Wednesday 30th March. He leaves a wife, Kelsey Hardwick, and two young children.
Of his loss, Kelsey said “we can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.”
Raise a glass and mourn all the rock ‘n’ roll greats lost in recent years, months just passed and last few days – but take a moment to remember Tom Parker while you're at it.
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Multi-award winning Northern Irish blues guitarist Dom Martin has released his sophomore studio album A Savage Life.
A second’s single, 'Echoes,' has now been released from the album; the song provides delicate contrast to the gritty slide boogie of preceding single '12 Gauge.'
Recorded in one take and featuring Dom Martin in beautifully melancholic acoustic mode, 'Echoes' is just that – an emotive an echo to the past and poignant memories, as Dom Martin elaborates:
"It’s a song about loss and finding things that used to belong to souls that have passed on.
It’s sort of a Celtic mystical piece. I guess it was inspired by me returning to Belfast after periods away during difficult times in my life but primarily it’s for my late father and my mother."
A second’s single, 'Echoes,' has now been released from the album; the song provides delicate contrast to the gritty slide boogie of preceding single '12 Gauge.'
Recorded in one take and featuring Dom Martin in beautifully melancholic acoustic mode, 'Echoes' is just that – an emotive an echo to the past and poignant memories, as Dom Martin elaborates:
"It’s a song about loss and finding things that used to belong to souls that have passed on.
It’s sort of a Celtic mystical piece. I guess it was inspired by me returning to Belfast after periods away during difficult times in my life but primarily it’s for my late father and my mother."
Dom Martin has been nominated for five awards at the UK Blues Awards 2022 including Blues Album of the Year (Live at The Harlington); in 2021 he won the Acoustic Blues Act of The Year at the UK Blues Awards.
He will also represent the UK at The International Blues Challenge in Memphis (May 6-9) and support Eric Gales in the UK from June 2nd to 8th.
In early November Martin will tour to promote A Savage Life, as well as making some festival appearances.
Produced by Grammy nominated Chris O’Brien, and Graham Murphy, A Savage Life was recorded in Belfast and Dublin during the second half of 2021.
The new album features Dom Martin (vocals, guitars, all songs & arrangements), Dave Thompson (bass) and Laurence McKeown (drums).
"A Savage Life is a mixture of acoustic solo and electric just like the first album, Spain to Italy," says Martin.
"However, on this new one, I really wanted to keep this album under-produced so I can reproduce the tracks in a live setting. I think I’ve got that under-produced sound I wanted. Many of the tracks were just one take and that’s the way I like it. Similarly, to the Spain to Italy album, the tracks on A Savage Life are mostly based on my own life experiences."
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He will also represent the UK at The International Blues Challenge in Memphis (May 6-9) and support Eric Gales in the UK from June 2nd to 8th.
In early November Martin will tour to promote A Savage Life, as well as making some festival appearances.
Produced by Grammy nominated Chris O’Brien, and Graham Murphy, A Savage Life was recorded in Belfast and Dublin during the second half of 2021.
The new album features Dom Martin (vocals, guitars, all songs & arrangements), Dave Thompson (bass) and Laurence McKeown (drums).
"A Savage Life is a mixture of acoustic solo and electric just like the first album, Spain to Italy," says Martin.
"However, on this new one, I really wanted to keep this album under-produced so I can reproduce the tracks in a live setting. I think I’ve got that under-produced sound I wanted. Many of the tracks were just one take and that’s the way I like it. Similarly, to the Spain to Italy album, the tracks on A Savage Life are mostly based on my own life experiences."
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Nashville based (but far from traditionally Nashville sounding) duo The Bloody Nerve (featuring the vocal talents of Laurie Ann Layne and singer/guitarist Stacey Blood) have returned five years on from their noted debut album Taste (a creative blend of Delta meets the Rolling Stones meet alt-pop blues) with a bigger, bolder and rockier statement that will be second album, All Blood, No Treasure.
The new album is a two-fold concept; while the songs tell "the story about the battle of individualism and collectivism that is somehow still raging on today" as outlined by Stacey Blood, the album itself will be conceptually serialised and released "episodically" (and by "Act," via four EPs) like a Netflix series.
The Act I EP (containing the first three episodes) is now followed by Act II : Reckoning, which is available on digital platforms and as a limited-edition CD.
The final track of Act II, the sinewy blues-grunge of 'Doin' All Day,' is available now, with accompanying video.
"Episode 6 is the fork in the road," says Laurie Ann Layne. "It's truly the inner struggle: do we descend further with resentment or begin redemption with courage and faith?"
"’Doin' All Day’ is prison slang for a life sentence," explains guitarist and singer Stacey Blood, "So we're using these optics to describe how we find ourselves more and more cuffed to new cultural pressures that don't come naturally to the human spirit. There's a new warden every day, each less forgiving than the one before."
The new album is a two-fold concept; while the songs tell "the story about the battle of individualism and collectivism that is somehow still raging on today" as outlined by Stacey Blood, the album itself will be conceptually serialised and released "episodically" (and by "Act," via four EPs) like a Netflix series.
The Act I EP (containing the first three episodes) is now followed by Act II : Reckoning, which is available on digital platforms and as a limited-edition CD.
The final track of Act II, the sinewy blues-grunge of 'Doin' All Day,' is available now, with accompanying video.
"Episode 6 is the fork in the road," says Laurie Ann Layne. "It's truly the inner struggle: do we descend further with resentment or begin redemption with courage and faith?"
"’Doin' All Day’ is prison slang for a life sentence," explains guitarist and singer Stacey Blood, "So we're using these optics to describe how we find ourselves more and more cuffed to new cultural pressures that don't come naturally to the human spirit. There's a new warden every day, each less forgiving than the one before."
Elaborating on the larger episodic narrative, Laurie Ann Layne continues: "Act II is called Reckoning because we always end up here; we can't make up our rules, as it turns out. To protect that machine, things get more forceful and more ridiculous until it implodes."
"All Blood, No Treasure ain’t going to be no flash in the pan. It will be a slow-burner (lots of mileage), and like all good television series, there will be lots of cliff-hangers along the way!" - Stacey Blood
Website: https://thebloodynerve.com/
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"All Blood, No Treasure ain’t going to be no flash in the pan. It will be a slow-burner (lots of mileage), and like all good television series, there will be lots of cliff-hangers along the way!" - Stacey Blood
Website: https://thebloodynerve.com/
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Great to be able to report that Aussie Hammond & Whammy Clav wizard Lachy Doley has had his cover (and tribute to Gary Brooker) of the Procul Harum classic Whiter Shade of Pale released as a single.
It's available now on all streaming sites here: https://songwhip.com/lachydoley/a-whiter-shade-of-pale
"This tune is one of my favourite tunes of all time. Not just that it's a great song but also for the fabulous Hammond Organ work played by Matthew Fisher. It was one of the very first tunes I learnt to play on the Hammond and I still adore it.
Gary Brooker had such an incredible voice. A voice that had such depth and story to it. I've tried to pay as much homage to the original as I could." - Lachy Doley
It's available now on all streaming sites here: https://songwhip.com/lachydoley/a-whiter-shade-of-pale
"This tune is one of my favourite tunes of all time. Not just that it's a great song but also for the fabulous Hammond Organ work played by Matthew Fisher. It was one of the very first tunes I learnt to play on the Hammond and I still adore it.
Gary Brooker had such an incredible voice. A voice that had such depth and story to it. I've tried to pay as much homage to the original as I could." - Lachy Doley
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With the Dan Reed double-headliner tour of the UK with Reckless Love having been rescheduled (due to the pandemic and restrictive governance of the time) to August & September, the band, keen to get back out on the road as soon as possible, have announced four headline concerts in the UK this June (see poster below).
Tickets are on sale/ available via www.danreed-network.com/tour
"As soon as we were made aware that our shows with Reckless Love were going to be rescheduled again it became imperative to find a way to get back on the road as soon as possible," states Dan Reed.
"We have an album that we know is going to deliver and we are desperate to get out there and play it live for everyone! We’re delighted that we were able to arrange these headlines shows around the album’s release date so we can celebrate that properly."
The short tour includes a special guest performance at the HRH AOR Festival at 02 Ritz in Manchester on Sunday June 19th, before the band head to Hamburg for an album release party show hosted by their record label, Drakkar Entertainment.
Tickets are on sale/ available via www.danreed-network.com/tour
"As soon as we were made aware that our shows with Reckless Love were going to be rescheduled again it became imperative to find a way to get back on the road as soon as possible," states Dan Reed.
"We have an album that we know is going to deliver and we are desperate to get out there and play it live for everyone! We’re delighted that we were able to arrange these headlines shows around the album’s release date so we can celebrate that properly."
The short tour includes a special guest performance at the HRH AOR Festival at 02 Ritz in Manchester on Sunday June 19th, before the band head to Hamburg for an album release party show hosted by their record label, Drakkar Entertainment.
The band’s new album Let’s Hear It For The King, originally slated for March 4th release, has been moved to the new release date of June 17th. You can pre-order the album from https://danreednetwork.tmstor.es/
The album, cited by the band as their heaviest/ rockiest to date, has been preceded by two singles, most lately 'Pretty Karma' and its accompanying Music Video.
The album, cited by the band as their heaviest/ rockiest to date, has been preceded by two singles, most lately 'Pretty Karma' and its accompanying Music Video.
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The Graham Bonnet Band have released a brand new studio album, Day Out In Nowhere.
The album, available on Frontiers Records, includes the single 'Imposter.'
On the album Graham Bonnet is joined by his regular bandmates Beth-Ami Heavenstone (bass) and Conrado Pesinato (guitar), along with keyboardist Alessandro Bertoni and drummer Shane Gaalaas.
Day Out In Nowhere also features guest performance and
co-writing appearances from the likes of Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy, Nevermore), John Tempesta (The Cult, White Zombie), Mike Tempesta (Powerman 5000), Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickinson) and Don Airey (Deep Purple, Rainbow).
"In a similar way to the first two GBB albums, this new record reflects different eras of my career, but with a contemporary twist," states Graham Bonnet.
"I’m also delighted to be playing with original band members Beth-Ami Heavenstone, who has been my constant partner on and off stage since we met in 2012, plus Conrado Pesinato, whose musical style elicits some of my best songwriting."
The 'Imposter' single (and cleverly constructed video) lyrically touches on those reflections of Graham Bonnet’s near fifty-five year career, which has included stints with Rainbow, MSG, Alcatrazz and Impellitteri as well as a lengthy and ongoing solo history.
The album, available on Frontiers Records, includes the single 'Imposter.'
On the album Graham Bonnet is joined by his regular bandmates Beth-Ami Heavenstone (bass) and Conrado Pesinato (guitar), along with keyboardist Alessandro Bertoni and drummer Shane Gaalaas.
Day Out In Nowhere also features guest performance and
co-writing appearances from the likes of Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy, Nevermore), John Tempesta (The Cult, White Zombie), Mike Tempesta (Powerman 5000), Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickinson) and Don Airey (Deep Purple, Rainbow).
"In a similar way to the first two GBB albums, this new record reflects different eras of my career, but with a contemporary twist," states Graham Bonnet.
"I’m also delighted to be playing with original band members Beth-Ami Heavenstone, who has been my constant partner on and off stage since we met in 2012, plus Conrado Pesinato, whose musical style elicits some of my best songwriting."
The 'Imposter' single (and cleverly constructed video) lyrically touches on those reflections of Graham Bonnet’s near fifty-five year career, which has included stints with Rainbow, MSG, Alcatrazz and Impellitteri as well as a lengthy and ongoing solo history.
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Aussie hard rockers Massive have released a new single, 'Reset;' it coincides with the news that the band have added further dates to their upcoming and long (pandemic) delayed tour of the UK, along with follow-on European and Australian dates.
The new single is a short n' sharp slice of upbeat rock and punky roll that belies the darker, end of the world shaped lyricism.
The band, who were living in different countries during the pandemic, have not been in the same room together for an astonishing 901 days. 'Reset' was therefore written, recorded and released without any of the four members of Massive ever playing in the same room.
"This song is a whole heap of mixed emotions for us, it's meant to sound upbeat and hopeful while also discussing the end of the world" says singer Brad Marr. "We wanted to keep writing and making music through the pandemic even though we couldn't physically get in a room together. We started recording this track a year ago and with every breaking news event, the song seemed to become more and more relevant."
The new single is a short n' sharp slice of upbeat rock and punky roll that belies the darker, end of the world shaped lyricism.
The band, who were living in different countries during the pandemic, have not been in the same room together for an astonishing 901 days. 'Reset' was therefore written, recorded and released without any of the four members of Massive ever playing in the same room.
"This song is a whole heap of mixed emotions for us, it's meant to sound upbeat and hopeful while also discussing the end of the world" says singer Brad Marr. "We wanted to keep writing and making music through the pandemic even though we couldn't physically get in a room together. We started recording this track a year ago and with every breaking news event, the song seemed to become more and more relevant."
To promote the new single Massive have announced several festival and headline shows in the UK and Europe, plus an Australian tour alongside hard rock heavyweights Buckcherry and Fozzy.
Massive have also been working on their fourth album, slated for release later in the year.
Massive are:
Brad Marr: vocals, guitar; Ben Laguda: lead guitar, vocals; Brenton Kewish: bass; Andrew Greentree: drums
Massive – July & August UK Tour Dates
30.7 - Just Push Play festival - Bury UK
31.7 - Brickmakers - Norwich UK
2.8 - Salutation Inn - Nottingham UK
3.8 - Gullivers - Manchester UK
4.8 - Trillians - Newcastle UK
5.8 - Ivory Blacks - Glasgow UK
6.8 - Corporation - Sheffield UK
7.8 - Waterloo - Blackpool UK
10.8 - Fuel - Cardiff UK
11.8 - Cavern - Exeter UK
12.8 - Hope N Ruin - Brighton UK
13.8 - Nozfest - Southampton UK
28.8 - Stonedead Festival - Newark UK
Website https://www.massiveoz.com
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Massive have also been working on their fourth album, slated for release later in the year.
Massive are:
Brad Marr: vocals, guitar; Ben Laguda: lead guitar, vocals; Brenton Kewish: bass; Andrew Greentree: drums
Massive – July & August UK Tour Dates
30.7 - Just Push Play festival - Bury UK
31.7 - Brickmakers - Norwich UK
2.8 - Salutation Inn - Nottingham UK
3.8 - Gullivers - Manchester UK
4.8 - Trillians - Newcastle UK
5.8 - Ivory Blacks - Glasgow UK
6.8 - Corporation - Sheffield UK
7.8 - Waterloo - Blackpool UK
10.8 - Fuel - Cardiff UK
11.8 - Cavern - Exeter UK
12.8 - Hope N Ruin - Brighton UK
13.8 - Nozfest - Southampton UK
28.8 - Stonedead Festival - Newark UK
Website https://www.massiveoz.com
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Complicated, the eighth official studio album by noted multi-styled rock vocalist Jeff Scott Soto, has just been released on Frontiers Records.
As with his previous album of all new material, 2020’s Wide Awake (In My Dreamland), Jeff Scott Soto has teamed up with producer and songwriter Alessandro Del Vecchio for Complicated, an album that will be heard as arguably the singer’s best since Damage Control a decade ago.
The album contains moments reminiscent of Jeff Scott Soto’s work with Talisman in the earlier part of his career and more recently as part of hard melodic rock supergroup W.E.T.
As with his previous album of all new material, 2020’s Wide Awake (In My Dreamland), Jeff Scott Soto has teamed up with producer and songwriter Alessandro Del Vecchio for Complicated, an album that will be heard as arguably the singer’s best since Damage Control a decade ago.
The album contains moments reminiscent of Jeff Scott Soto’s work with Talisman in the earlier part of his career and more recently as part of hard melodic rock supergroup W.E.T.
Jeff Scott Soto has dozens of albums, collaborations and recordings under his belt.
A well-established performer with effervescent energy, Soto can deliver across genres ranging from metal and hard rock to progressive rock and funk, interspersed with powerful rock ballads.
Jeff Scott Soto's career began as the vocalist for guitar virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen in 1984 before fronting bands such as Talisman, Soul SirkUS, a stint with Journey, W.E.T., SOTO, Sons of Apollo and an ongoing membership in Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
In 1995 Soto released his debut solo album Love Parade; it was followed by the acclaimed Prism (2002), Lost In The Translation (2005), Beautiful Mess (2009), Damage Control (2012), Retribution (2017) and Wide Awake (In My Dreamland) (2020).
He also issued The Duets Collection Vol. 1 in 2021.
Complicated – Track Listing
Last To Know; Disbelieving; Home Again; Love Is The Revolution; Until I See You Again; Complicated; Don't Look Back; New Horizon; Back To The Beginning; Thank You; Obsession
Featuring:
Jeff Scott Soto - lead & backing vocals; Fabrizio Sgattoni – guitars; Alessandro Del Vecchio - bass, keys, backing vocals; Edu Cominato – drums
Formats: CD, LP, Digital Released 6th May on Frontiers Records
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Photo by Laurence Harvey
After their successful post-lockdown UK tour at the end of 2021 (read the review of their excellent Glasgow gig here), Sweet will embark on an end-of-year return to UK stages when they undertake their 15 date Unlock the Rock tour through November and December.
Tickets will be available to purchase from 10am on Friday 4th March via www.thegigcartel.com and 24 Hour Box Office 08444 780 898
Sweet, featuring guitarist Andy Scott, will "Blitz The Hitz" on stage, including such classics as 'Fox on the Run,' 'Blockbuster,' 'Hellraiser,' 'Little Willy,' 'Love Is Like Oxygen' and, of course, 'Ballroom Blitz' (and many more).
Sweet are a British rock and roll institution, having sold 55 million albums worldwide and had 34 number #1 hit singles across many countries.
Hailed by many as a national treasure with a loyal fanbase, their dazzling arsenal of hard rock, glam rock and pop-rock music stands the test of time.
The songs and the "Sweet Sound" are as fresh and relevant today as they were more than fifty years ago when Sweet first hit the UK Charts in 1971.
Tickets will be available to purchase from 10am on Friday 4th March via www.thegigcartel.com and 24 Hour Box Office 08444 780 898
Sweet, featuring guitarist Andy Scott, will "Blitz The Hitz" on stage, including such classics as 'Fox on the Run,' 'Blockbuster,' 'Hellraiser,' 'Little Willy,' 'Love Is Like Oxygen' and, of course, 'Ballroom Blitz' (and many more).
Sweet are a British rock and roll institution, having sold 55 million albums worldwide and had 34 number #1 hit singles across many countries.
Hailed by many as a national treasure with a loyal fanbase, their dazzling arsenal of hard rock, glam rock and pop-rock music stands the test of time.
The songs and the "Sweet Sound" are as fresh and relevant today as they were more than fifty years ago when Sweet first hit the UK Charts in 1971.
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Steve Vai has announced that his Inviolate World Tour will begin with a full European leg through June and July; the tour will start in the UK with a show at the o2 Academy in Glasgow on the 4th of June.
Full Europeans leg tour dates are below.
Later in the year the renowned virtuoso rock guitarist will play 52 dates across the US, from the 28th September (in El Cajon, CA) through to 3rd December, when he returns to the west coast (Los Angeles).
For tickets and a variety of EVO Experience VIP bundles, head to: https://www.vai.com/tourdates/
To celebrate the tour, very limited Red/Black Marble Tour Edition Vinyl copies of Steve Vai’s latest album Inviolate will be made available through the Mascot Label Store and the official Steve Vai store.
A restricted number will also be available to buy at the shows.
Inviolate Red/Black Marble Tour Edition Vinyl
Limited to 1000 copies, via 100 available in the Mascot US store; 100 available in the Mascot EU store; 80 available in the official Steve Vai artist store; 720 available at the shows. Released June 4th.
https://lnk.to/InviolateTourVinyl
A standard Black Vinyl Edition will also be available from March 18th.
https://smarturl.it/steve_vai
Released in January, Inviolate features Steve Vai’s new custom-built Ibanez three-neck Hydra guitar on the track 'Teeth of the Hydra.'
Full Europeans leg tour dates are below.
Later in the year the renowned virtuoso rock guitarist will play 52 dates across the US, from the 28th September (in El Cajon, CA) through to 3rd December, when he returns to the west coast (Los Angeles).
For tickets and a variety of EVO Experience VIP bundles, head to: https://www.vai.com/tourdates/
To celebrate the tour, very limited Red/Black Marble Tour Edition Vinyl copies of Steve Vai’s latest album Inviolate will be made available through the Mascot Label Store and the official Steve Vai store.
A restricted number will also be available to buy at the shows.
Inviolate Red/Black Marble Tour Edition Vinyl
Limited to 1000 copies, via 100 available in the Mascot US store; 100 available in the Mascot EU store; 80 available in the official Steve Vai artist store; 720 available at the shows. Released June 4th.
https://lnk.to/InviolateTourVinyl
A standard Black Vinyl Edition will also be available from March 18th.
https://smarturl.it/steve_vai
Released in January, Inviolate features Steve Vai’s new custom-built Ibanez three-neck Hydra guitar on the track 'Teeth of the Hydra.'
Steve Vai – Inviolate Wold Tour European Leg
04 June Glasgow, UK - o2 Academy
05 June Manchester, UK - The Ritz
07 June London, UK - Palladium
09 June Bristol, UK - o2 Academy
10 June Dublin, Ireland - Academy
11 June Belfast, Ireland - The Limelight
13 June Paris, France - Le Trianon
14 June Strasbourg, France - Laiterie
16 June Oslo, Norway - Rockefeller
17 June Bergen, Norway - USF Verftet
18 June Gothenburg, Sweden - Pustervik
19 June Stockholm, Sweden - Fållan
20 June Copenhagen, Denmark - Amager Bio
22 June Lille, France - Splendid
24 June Bordeaux-Cenon, France - Rocher de Palmer
25 June Nimes, France - Paloma
26 June Lyon, France - Transbordeur
28 June Nuremberg, Germany - Hirsch
29 June Linz, Austria - Postof
01 July Udine, Italy - Castello
02 July Macerata, Italy - Sferisterio
03 July Bari, Italy - Teatro Petruzzelli
04 July Firenze, Italy - Ultravox Arena
05 July Gardon Riviera, Italy - Anfiteatro del Vittoriale
06 July Zurich, Switzerland - Komplex
08 July Berlin, Germany - Columbia Theatre
09 July Weert, Netherlands - Bospop Festival
10 July Antwerp, Belgium - Open Air Amphitheater
12 July Toulouse, France - Le Bikini
14 July Sancti Petri, Spain - Concert Music Festival
15 July San Javier, Spain - San Javier Jazz Festival
16 July Valencia, Spain Jardin de Viveros
17 July Vigo, Spain Auditorio Mardo Vigo
19 July Barcelona, Spain Festival de la Guitarra
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04 June Glasgow, UK - o2 Academy
05 June Manchester, UK - The Ritz
07 June London, UK - Palladium
09 June Bristol, UK - o2 Academy
10 June Dublin, Ireland - Academy
11 June Belfast, Ireland - The Limelight
13 June Paris, France - Le Trianon
14 June Strasbourg, France - Laiterie
16 June Oslo, Norway - Rockefeller
17 June Bergen, Norway - USF Verftet
18 June Gothenburg, Sweden - Pustervik
19 June Stockholm, Sweden - Fållan
20 June Copenhagen, Denmark - Amager Bio
22 June Lille, France - Splendid
24 June Bordeaux-Cenon, France - Rocher de Palmer
25 June Nimes, France - Paloma
26 June Lyon, France - Transbordeur
28 June Nuremberg, Germany - Hirsch
29 June Linz, Austria - Postof
01 July Udine, Italy - Castello
02 July Macerata, Italy - Sferisterio
03 July Bari, Italy - Teatro Petruzzelli
04 July Firenze, Italy - Ultravox Arena
05 July Gardon Riviera, Italy - Anfiteatro del Vittoriale
06 July Zurich, Switzerland - Komplex
08 July Berlin, Germany - Columbia Theatre
09 July Weert, Netherlands - Bospop Festival
10 July Antwerp, Belgium - Open Air Amphitheater
12 July Toulouse, France - Le Bikini
14 July Sancti Petri, Spain - Concert Music Festival
15 July San Javier, Spain - San Javier Jazz Festival
16 July Valencia, Spain Jardin de Viveros
17 July Vigo, Spain Auditorio Mardo Vigo
19 July Barcelona, Spain Festival de la Guitarra
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Firekind and Loz Campbell, two of the most exciting up and coming artists on the UK rock scene, will unite for a co-headline of six dates across the UK this summer.
Hailing from Devon, Firekind fuse soaring vocals and guitar melodies with powerful drums and bass.
Their debut album What I Have Found Is Already Lost Deluxe Edition, which featured songs such as the driving and semi-anthemic 'Sound of Rain,' was a well-received and highly praised self-release in 2020, leading to an invite to be special guests to Kris Barras at his annual Christmas show and a slot at Planet Rock Winter’s End. The high octane live act will release new music this year.
The Yorkshire based Loz Campbell recently released her hard-hitting new single 'Bad Girl,' which is available now on all platforms.
Delivering fiery live shows playing with such legends as Mungo Jerry and Zal Cleminson's Sin Dogs, Loz Campbell and her band have graced a number of iconic stages including London’s 100 Club and O2 Academy Islington.
Tickets are on sale now from www.seetickets.com
Please note the Newcastle show is Free Entry; the York date includes support from Healthy Junkies
Hailing from Devon, Firekind fuse soaring vocals and guitar melodies with powerful drums and bass.
Their debut album What I Have Found Is Already Lost Deluxe Edition, which featured songs such as the driving and semi-anthemic 'Sound of Rain,' was a well-received and highly praised self-release in 2020, leading to an invite to be special guests to Kris Barras at his annual Christmas show and a slot at Planet Rock Winter’s End. The high octane live act will release new music this year.
The Yorkshire based Loz Campbell recently released her hard-hitting new single 'Bad Girl,' which is available now on all platforms.
Delivering fiery live shows playing with such legends as Mungo Jerry and Zal Cleminson's Sin Dogs, Loz Campbell and her band have graced a number of iconic stages including London’s 100 Club and O2 Academy Islington.
Tickets are on sale now from www.seetickets.com
Please note the Newcastle show is Free Entry; the York date includes support from Healthy Junkies
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Hot on the heels of their successful and now running to a conclusion February UK tour dates, King King have announced further concerts in the UK during July and October 2022 (see poster adjacent).
Tickets are now on sale from www.thegigcartel.com with the exception of the Liverpool show, where tickets will be available from www.ticketweb.uk
Yo can also check all tour dates and order tickets at: https://www.kingking.co.uk/tour
King King’s current and critically acclaimed studio album Maverick, available from www.kingking.co.uk and featuring the singles 'Never Give In' and 'I Will Not Fall,' showcases the band's new line-up of Alan Nimmo (vocals, guitar),
Stevie Nimmo (guitar), Jonny Dyke (organ, piano),
Zander Greenshields (bass) and Andrew Scott (drums).
Tickets are now on sale from www.thegigcartel.com with the exception of the Liverpool show, where tickets will be available from www.ticketweb.uk
Yo can also check all tour dates and order tickets at: https://www.kingking.co.uk/tour
King King’s current and critically acclaimed studio album Maverick, available from www.kingking.co.uk and featuring the singles 'Never Give In' and 'I Will Not Fall,' showcases the band's new line-up of Alan Nimmo (vocals, guitar),
Stevie Nimmo (guitar), Jonny Dyke (organ, piano),
Zander Greenshields (bass) and Andrew Scott (drums).
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Rootsy, genre bending singer-guitarist Samantha Fish has rescheduled her upcoming UK tour for October; the rescheduling has also allowed for the addition of extra dates in Oxford (Academy 2), Glasgow (St Luke’s) and Southampton (The Brook).
Special guest at all shows are Wille & The Bandits.
All original tickets are still valid; tickets are available from www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.samanthafish.com/tour and https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/samantha-fish-tickets/artist/1833264
"Once again due to the nature of the pandemic and the different restrictions imposed across Europe, I’ve reluctantly had to reschedule my February 2022 dates to October 2022. We’ve added three more shows in Oxford, Glasgow, and Southampton to the tour, so I’ll be able to play for even more of you. We’re working on the European dates, and I hope to have some news on those for you soon. In the meantime, stay safe, take care of yourselves as well as each other. See you in October.!" - Samantha Fish
The tour is in support of Samantha Fish’s latest album Faster, which was released by Rounder Records in September of last year.
The album includes the ear-catching single (and eye catching video 'Twisted Ambition.'
Special guest at all shows are Wille & The Bandits.
All original tickets are still valid; tickets are available from www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.samanthafish.com/tour and https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/samantha-fish-tickets/artist/1833264
"Once again due to the nature of the pandemic and the different restrictions imposed across Europe, I’ve reluctantly had to reschedule my February 2022 dates to October 2022. We’ve added three more shows in Oxford, Glasgow, and Southampton to the tour, so I’ll be able to play for even more of you. We’re working on the European dates, and I hope to have some news on those for you soon. In the meantime, stay safe, take care of yourselves as well as each other. See you in October.!" - Samantha Fish
The tour is in support of Samantha Fish’s latest album Faster, which was released by Rounder Records in September of last year.
The album includes the ear-catching single (and eye catching video 'Twisted Ambition.'
Faster, the follow-up to 2019's acclaimed Kill or Be Kind, marks Samantha Fish's first collaboration with producer Martin Kierszenbaum (Lady Gaga, Sting), who co-wrote eight of the album's twelve songs and helped the multi-dimensional artist strike out into further, new sonic territory.
Never doing the same album twice is very much part of Samantha Fish’s musical modus operandi; this is a powerful live performer who has released a series of acclaimed albums that have shown her restless spirit consistently taking new musical directions.
"I'm never going be a traditional blues artist, because that's not who I am; but it's all the blues for me. When Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf came out, what they were doing didn't sound like anything that had been done in blues before. You've got to keep that kind of fire and spirit. I'm never going to do Muddy Waters better than Muddy Waters, so I have to be who I am and find my best voice."
Never doing the same album twice is very much part of Samantha Fish’s musical modus operandi; this is a powerful live performer who has released a series of acclaimed albums that have shown her restless spirit consistently taking new musical directions.
"I'm never going be a traditional blues artist, because that's not who I am; but it's all the blues for me. When Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf came out, what they were doing didn't sound like anything that had been done in blues before. You've got to keep that kind of fire and spirit. I'm never going to do Muddy Waters better than Muddy Waters, so I have to be who I am and find my best voice."
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Photo by David Clay
Hot on the heels of his most successful solo tour ever, Steve Hackett has announced his Genesis Revisited : Foxtrot at Fifty + Hackett Highlights tour for 2022.
The tour will mark the 50th anniversary of the legendary Genesis album Foxtrot which, in 1972, was pivotal in establishing the band as a major force in British rock.
Tickets are available from 10am on Friday 10th December via myticket.co.uk
"I think Foxtrot was a terrific achievement for Genesis at that time," says Steve Hackett; "I think there is not one weak track on the album; they all have their strong points.
We were a young, struggling band at that time. By the time we were doing Foxtrot, the band was becoming more ambitious. Foxtrot is a must for fans of the early Genesis work.
Fifty years ago? It doesn’t feel like those ideas are fifty years old because it was-genre defining, rather than following trends. It still sounds current, now."
Foxtrot was critically acclaimed and became the first Genesis album to make the UK album charts.
The first track, the sci-fi influenced 'Watcher of the Skies,' became a fan favourite while the album’s highlight, the 23-minute 'Supper’s Ready,' remains a concert favourite (a feature of Hackett’s recent Second’s Out tour).
Steve Hackett was lead writer of 'Can-Utility and the Coastliners,' featuring some particularly strong musical ideas; he also contributed his classically-inspired solo piece, 'Horizons,' in a perhaps unexpected form…
"The original version was a rough mix but there was something about it. A rough monitor mix can have things that something more considered won’t necessarily possess. I liked the sound of the rough mix, so we went with that!"
The tour will mark the 50th anniversary of the legendary Genesis album Foxtrot which, in 1972, was pivotal in establishing the band as a major force in British rock.
Tickets are available from 10am on Friday 10th December via myticket.co.uk
"I think Foxtrot was a terrific achievement for Genesis at that time," says Steve Hackett; "I think there is not one weak track on the album; they all have their strong points.
We were a young, struggling band at that time. By the time we were doing Foxtrot, the band was becoming more ambitious. Foxtrot is a must for fans of the early Genesis work.
Fifty years ago? It doesn’t feel like those ideas are fifty years old because it was-genre defining, rather than following trends. It still sounds current, now."
Foxtrot was critically acclaimed and became the first Genesis album to make the UK album charts.
The first track, the sci-fi influenced 'Watcher of the Skies,' became a fan favourite while the album’s highlight, the 23-minute 'Supper’s Ready,' remains a concert favourite (a feature of Hackett’s recent Second’s Out tour).
Steve Hackett was lead writer of 'Can-Utility and the Coastliners,' featuring some particularly strong musical ideas; he also contributed his classically-inspired solo piece, 'Horizons,' in a perhaps unexpected form…
"The original version was a rough mix but there was something about it. A rough monitor mix can have things that something more considered won’t necessarily possess. I liked the sound of the rough mix, so we went with that!"
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Celebrated singer-songwriter Howard Jones will undertake a 13-date Acoustic Trio UK tour in October.
The tour will start at The Forum in Bath on 14th October and end in New Brighton at the Floral Pavilion on 30th October (see tour poster further below).
The tour, which will showcase a stripped-down trip through Howard Jones’ colourful 30-year music career (including a rare and intimate opportunity for the audience to hear first-hand about the inspiration behind the songs), will feature Jones on electric piano, guitarist Robin Boult (Roger Daltrey, Dave Stewart, Fish) and Nick Beggs (Steven Wilson, Steve Hackett, Kajagoogoo, Belinda Carlisle, John Paul Jones) on chapman stick.
Tickets are on sale now at www.thegigcartel.com
Tickets are priced £27.50, £30.00 and £100 VIP.
The latter allows the ticket purchaser to pick the best available seats in the theatre, have a meet and greet* prior to the performance with Howard Jones and a signed souvenir package.
There are a limited number of VIP tickets allocated to each show, so booking early is advised.
(*Subject to government guidance on social contact).
The tour will start at The Forum in Bath on 14th October and end in New Brighton at the Floral Pavilion on 30th October (see tour poster further below).
The tour, which will showcase a stripped-down trip through Howard Jones’ colourful 30-year music career (including a rare and intimate opportunity for the audience to hear first-hand about the inspiration behind the songs), will feature Jones on electric piano, guitarist Robin Boult (Roger Daltrey, Dave Stewart, Fish) and Nick Beggs (Steven Wilson, Steve Hackett, Kajagoogoo, Belinda Carlisle, John Paul Jones) on chapman stick.
Tickets are on sale now at www.thegigcartel.com
Tickets are priced £27.50, £30.00 and £100 VIP.
The latter allows the ticket purchaser to pick the best available seats in the theatre, have a meet and greet* prior to the performance with Howard Jones and a signed souvenir package.
There are a limited number of VIP tickets allocated to each show, so booking early is advised.
(*Subject to government guidance on social contact).
Hailed by many as an electronic music pioneer, Howard Jones has been a constant presence on the international touring scene for the past three decades, playing live in several configurations including intimate solo shows and dates with his full high-tech band set-up.
"I am really excited about the trio tour we have planned for 2022," says Howard Jones.
"Nick and Robin are dear friends and world class musicians and I love performing with them. After touring the trio in America, I thought the time was right for us to bring the fun of this acoustic show back home. I will play a range of songs from the HoJo canon including the hits old and new as well as some deep cuts and fan favourites."
Howard Jones, who has sold over eight million albums worldwide, burst upon the music scene in 1983 with his song-writing and pioneering synthesized pop.
His first two albums Human’s Lib and Dream into Action were worldwide hits; Human’s Lib, a #1 chart success in 1984 in the UK, featured the hits 'New Song' and 'What Is Love?'
1985’s Dream into Action became a Top 10 Platinum album in North America; the album featured the hit singles 'Things Can Only Get Better,' 'Life In One Day,' 'No One Is To Blame' and 'Like To Get To Know You Well.'
Howard Jones' most recent album, Transform, is his first new studio album in nearly a decade; released in 2019 to critical acclaim, Transform features several collaborations with electronica luminary BT.
Jones also recently performed on NBC’s top-rated morning and night-time television shows Today and The Tonight Show, the latter hosted by Jimmy Fallon.
"I am really excited about the trio tour we have planned for 2022," says Howard Jones.
"Nick and Robin are dear friends and world class musicians and I love performing with them. After touring the trio in America, I thought the time was right for us to bring the fun of this acoustic show back home. I will play a range of songs from the HoJo canon including the hits old and new as well as some deep cuts and fan favourites."
Howard Jones, who has sold over eight million albums worldwide, burst upon the music scene in 1983 with his song-writing and pioneering synthesized pop.
His first two albums Human’s Lib and Dream into Action were worldwide hits; Human’s Lib, a #1 chart success in 1984 in the UK, featured the hits 'New Song' and 'What Is Love?'
1985’s Dream into Action became a Top 10 Platinum album in North America; the album featured the hit singles 'Things Can Only Get Better,' 'Life In One Day,' 'No One Is To Blame' and 'Like To Get To Know You Well.'
Howard Jones' most recent album, Transform, is his first new studio album in nearly a decade; released in 2019 to critical acclaim, Transform features several collaborations with electronica luminary BT.
Jones also recently performed on NBC’s top-rated morning and night-time television shows Today and The Tonight Show, the latter hosted by Jimmy Fallon.
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"A language works best when we have something interesting to say. Many music teachers never find out what their students have to say; we only tell them what they are supposed to say."
Victor Wooten
Victor Wooten