---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Asia are set to release a comprehensive 10CD boxset of five live performances.
The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 will be released through BMG Records on 26th November; there will also be a digital album featuring a selection of 24 tracks taken from the full boxset, released the same day.
Pre-order here: https://asiaband.lnk.to/OLB1PR
The original and classic line-up of Asia - John Wetton (lead vocals, bass), Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitars), Carl Palmer (drums) and ), took the melodic rock world by storm with their eponymous debut album, globally the biggest-selling album of 1982.
The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 celebrates the huge appeal of the concert tours that followed Asia’s first two albums as well as the continued success enjoyed when the classic line-up reunited in 2006, subsequently delivering three more studio albums.
The slipcase boxset features 5 x 2CD concerts from 1982 (Buffalo), 1983 (Worcester, MA), 2007 (São Paulo), 2008 (Tokyo) and 2010 (London).
"This historical collection represents some of our finest and most defining live moments, from the very first Asia tour in 1982 and the Alpha tour the following year through three of our many Reunion shows" says Geoff Downes. "It was such a privilege to take Asia’s music to different continents and feel the warmth and support from fans all over the world."
This the first time these recordings have been made officially available by Asia, presented together in a superb collector’s edition boxset with original artwork by Roger Dean, who created all of Asia’s album artwork.
Leaving behind the original members’ progressive roots, Asia embraced the commercial FM rock sound that dominated US airwaves and took rock and AOR radio, and the then new MTV video channel, by storm.
The single 'Heat Of The Moment' was a world-wide smash and their eponymous 1982 debut album spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard chart. A second album, Alpha, was released in 1983.
The four original members reconvened in 2006 for a world tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of that original success; the reunion album Phoenix followed.
The four members reunited again to record Omega in 2010 and XXX in 2012.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 will be released through BMG Records on 26th November; there will also be a digital album featuring a selection of 24 tracks taken from the full boxset, released the same day.
Pre-order here: https://asiaband.lnk.to/OLB1PR
The original and classic line-up of Asia - John Wetton (lead vocals, bass), Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitars), Carl Palmer (drums) and ), took the melodic rock world by storm with their eponymous debut album, globally the biggest-selling album of 1982.
The Official Live Bootlegs Volume 1 celebrates the huge appeal of the concert tours that followed Asia’s first two albums as well as the continued success enjoyed when the classic line-up reunited in 2006, subsequently delivering three more studio albums.
The slipcase boxset features 5 x 2CD concerts from 1982 (Buffalo), 1983 (Worcester, MA), 2007 (São Paulo), 2008 (Tokyo) and 2010 (London).
"This historical collection represents some of our finest and most defining live moments, from the very first Asia tour in 1982 and the Alpha tour the following year through three of our many Reunion shows" says Geoff Downes. "It was such a privilege to take Asia’s music to different continents and feel the warmth and support from fans all over the world."
This the first time these recordings have been made officially available by Asia, presented together in a superb collector’s edition boxset with original artwork by Roger Dean, who created all of Asia’s album artwork.
Leaving behind the original members’ progressive roots, Asia embraced the commercial FM rock sound that dominated US airwaves and took rock and AOR radio, and the then new MTV video channel, by storm.
The single 'Heat Of The Moment' was a world-wide smash and their eponymous 1982 debut album spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard chart. A second album, Alpha, was released in 1983.
The four original members reconvened in 2006 for a world tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of that original success; the reunion album Phoenix followed.
The four members reunited again to record Omega in 2010 and XXX in 2012.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Multi-award-winning Southern rock, blues and country quartet The Kentucky Headhunters have just released their brand-new album That’s a Fact Jack!
The band have also released a kaleidoscopic styled lyric video version of the raw and rockin' title track to dovetail with, and promote, the album's release.
"Jon Lawhon did a great job," says co-founder, vocalist & rhythm guitarist Richard Young.
"He used a kaleidoscope effect, with swirling designs of the band and our album artwork to create a vibe of nervous tension yet at the same time, a feeling of childlike imagery, to mold the heaviness of the music and the song’s lyrical content."
The band have also released a kaleidoscopic styled lyric video version of the raw and rockin' title track to dovetail with, and promote, the album's release.
"Jon Lawhon did a great job," says co-founder, vocalist & rhythm guitarist Richard Young.
"He used a kaleidoscope effect, with swirling designs of the band and our album artwork to create a vibe of nervous tension yet at the same time, a feeling of childlike imagery, to mold the heaviness of the music and the song’s lyrical content."
As regards the new album, Richard Young explains "That's a Fact Jack!' is a dose of just what the doctor ordered, for the times our world at large has been enduring.
After a year and a half of live show cancellations, The Heads decided we had to do something to keep our live playing rigor from rusting over. Plain and simple, we we're determined to be the band we have been for most of our lives. Damn the torpedoes!"
That’s a Fact Jack! is also unique in that after 14 album releases in their decades-long career, this is the first album to ever be issued, as a standalone release, from the band's own label: Practice House Records, via BFD Distribution.
The Kentucky Headhunters' family story starts with brothers Fred and Richard Young along with cousins Greg Martin and Anthony Kenney forming the Southern blues-rock band Itchy Brother.
In 1986 the band became The Kentucky Headhunters; their 1989 debut album Pickin’ On Nashville surprised the world by selling over two million copies; it also won a Grammy Award, three Country Music Awards, an American Music Award and an Academy of Country Music Award.
It also garnered the band four consecutive Top 40 Country hits.
After a year and a half of live show cancellations, The Heads decided we had to do something to keep our live playing rigor from rusting over. Plain and simple, we we're determined to be the band we have been for most of our lives. Damn the torpedoes!"
That’s a Fact Jack! is also unique in that after 14 album releases in their decades-long career, this is the first album to ever be issued, as a standalone release, from the band's own label: Practice House Records, via BFD Distribution.
The Kentucky Headhunters' family story starts with brothers Fred and Richard Young along with cousins Greg Martin and Anthony Kenney forming the Southern blues-rock band Itchy Brother.
In 1986 the band became The Kentucky Headhunters; their 1989 debut album Pickin’ On Nashville surprised the world by selling over two million copies; it also won a Grammy Award, three Country Music Awards, an American Music Award and an Academy of Country Music Award.
It also garnered the band four consecutive Top 40 Country hits.
The Kentucky Headhunters haven’t survived this long by being a flash in the pan. Their ability to evolve and reinvent themselves and their sound – year after year – continues to hold their fans and gain them new ones around the globe.
As Billboard magazine acknowledged, "Somewhere along the way, amid personnel changes, heart attacks, and label shifts, the Kentucky HeadHunters have evolved into the great American rock 'n' roll band."
Purchase/ stream That’s a Fact Jack! here: https://orcd.co/kentuckyheadhuntersthatsafactjack
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As Billboard magazine acknowledged, "Somewhere along the way, amid personnel changes, heart attacks, and label shifts, the Kentucky HeadHunters have evolved into the great American rock 'n' roll band."
Purchase/ stream That’s a Fact Jack! here: https://orcd.co/kentuckyheadhuntersthatsafactjack
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hard rock outfit L.A. Guns have released a new the single Get Along; it’s the latest song to be lifted from Checkered Past, the band’s forthcoming new studio album, set for release on 12th November via Frontiers.
Checkered Past sees Tracii Guns, Phil Lewis and co continuing with the darker lyrical tone of their previous two studio albums The Devil You Know and The Missing Peace, while incorporating their classic rock influences (heavier songs are mixed with bluesier, boogie inducing tracks and dark, introspective ballads that hearken back to their first three records).
Checkered Past - arguably one of the most vital and exciting releases in the Chequered Career of L.A. Guns.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Checkered Past - arguably one of the most vital and exciting releases in the Chequered Career of L.A. Guns.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dark Americana star Amigo The Devil (aka Danny Kiranos) has just announced a set of UK, Irish and mainland European dates for March/April 2022, in promotion of current album Born Against.
Tickets are on sale now from www.amigothedevil.com/tour
The dates are the first opportunity for fans this side of the pond to witness the ‘Devil playing all his best tunes since the start of the global pandemic (the tour actually commences two years to the day since his last European trek ended).
Renowned for his macabre storytelling Born Against, featuring the single 'Quiet as a Rat' (the Official Music Video has garnered more than 200,000 YT views) sees Danny Kiranos expand his repertoire with romantic, philosophical and emotional narratives without sacrificing the genre-bending style that had already garnered him reams of praise and a passionate following.
Tickets are on sale now from www.amigothedevil.com/tour
The dates are the first opportunity for fans this side of the pond to witness the ‘Devil playing all his best tunes since the start of the global pandemic (the tour actually commences two years to the day since his last European trek ended).
Renowned for his macabre storytelling Born Against, featuring the single 'Quiet as a Rat' (the Official Music Video has garnered more than 200,000 YT views) sees Danny Kiranos expand his repertoire with romantic, philosophical and emotional narratives without sacrificing the genre-bending style that had already garnered him reams of praise and a passionate following.
Born Against is the follow up to Everything Is Fine, the 2018 debut by Amigo The Devil, which crossed musical boundaries by connecting with fans of rock, folk, Americana, country, metal and beyond.
Harnessing some of the world music he grew up on, with additional inspiration from master storytellers such as Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen and contemporaries like Fiona Apple and Father John Misty, ATD/ Kiranos’ songs are vivid, cinematic tales of flawed protagonists on the edge, desperately clinging to some sense of stability while following their heart’s chosen path.
"His debut was a starkly beautiful tapestry on which genres were seemingly picked from a tombola and emotions torn from the depths. He remains angular and brilliant on Born Against." CLASSIC ROCK
"Darkly romantic, hauntingly melodic and flecked with effective experimental embellishments, it stakes an early birthright for the year’s best-of lists, reinforcing the adage that the devil truly does have all the best tunes" FOLK RADIO UK
Amigo The Devil - European, UK and Irish dates 2022
04.03.22 COLOGNE (DE) Art Theatre
05.03.22 HAMBURG (DE) Nochtspeicher
07.02.22 STOCKHOLM (SE) Debaser
08.03.22 OSLO (NO) Blå
09.03.22 COPENHAGEN (DK) Hotel Cecil
10.03.22 BERLIN (DE) Badehaus
12.03.22 WARSAW (PL) Chmury
13.03.22 PRAGUE (CZ) Café V Lese
14.03.22 VIENNA (AT) Chelsea
17.03.22 BUDAPEST (HU) Durer-Kert
18.03.22 ZAGREB (HR) Culture Factory
19.03.22 MILAN (IT) Rock’N’Roll
21.03.22 BERN (CH) ISC Club
22.03.22 MUNICH (DE) Hansa 39
23.03.22 ANTWERP (BE) Trix
24.03.22 UTRECHT (NL) Helling
26.03.22 AMSTERDAM (NL) Melkweg
28.03.22 BRIGHTON (UK) Green Door Store
29.03.22 LONDON (UK) Omeara
31.03.22 BRISTOL (UK) Exchange
01.04.22 MANCHESTER (UK) Night & Day
02.04.22 LEEDS (UK) The Key Club
04.04.22 CORK (IE) Winthrop Avenue
05.04.22 DUBLIN (IE) Grand Social
06.04.22 BELFAST (UK) Ulster Sports Club
08.04.22 NEWCASTLE (UK) Cluny 2
09.04.22 GLASGOW (UK) Attic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harnessing some of the world music he grew up on, with additional inspiration from master storytellers such as Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen and contemporaries like Fiona Apple and Father John Misty, ATD/ Kiranos’ songs are vivid, cinematic tales of flawed protagonists on the edge, desperately clinging to some sense of stability while following their heart’s chosen path.
"His debut was a starkly beautiful tapestry on which genres were seemingly picked from a tombola and emotions torn from the depths. He remains angular and brilliant on Born Against." CLASSIC ROCK
"Darkly romantic, hauntingly melodic and flecked with effective experimental embellishments, it stakes an early birthright for the year’s best-of lists, reinforcing the adage that the devil truly does have all the best tunes" FOLK RADIO UK
Amigo The Devil - European, UK and Irish dates 2022
04.03.22 COLOGNE (DE) Art Theatre
05.03.22 HAMBURG (DE) Nochtspeicher
07.02.22 STOCKHOLM (SE) Debaser
08.03.22 OSLO (NO) Blå
09.03.22 COPENHAGEN (DK) Hotel Cecil
10.03.22 BERLIN (DE) Badehaus
12.03.22 WARSAW (PL) Chmury
13.03.22 PRAGUE (CZ) Café V Lese
14.03.22 VIENNA (AT) Chelsea
17.03.22 BUDAPEST (HU) Durer-Kert
18.03.22 ZAGREB (HR) Culture Factory
19.03.22 MILAN (IT) Rock’N’Roll
21.03.22 BERN (CH) ISC Club
22.03.22 MUNICH (DE) Hansa 39
23.03.22 ANTWERP (BE) Trix
24.03.22 UTRECHT (NL) Helling
26.03.22 AMSTERDAM (NL) Melkweg
28.03.22 BRIGHTON (UK) Green Door Store
29.03.22 LONDON (UK) Omeara
31.03.22 BRISTOL (UK) Exchange
01.04.22 MANCHESTER (UK) Night & Day
02.04.22 LEEDS (UK) The Key Club
04.04.22 CORK (IE) Winthrop Avenue
05.04.22 DUBLIN (IE) Grand Social
06.04.22 BELFAST (UK) Ulster Sports Club
08.04.22 NEWCASTLE (UK) Cluny 2
09.04.22 GLASGOW (UK) Attic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acclaimed and Grammy nominated blues & blues-rock singer-songwriter Beth Hart has confirmed crossover country-pop singer & guitarist Arielle as support on her upcoming five English dates.
Tickets are on sale via www.alttickets.com/beth-hart-tickets but Please Note the York Barbican show, on Halloween October 31st, is Sold Out.
Tickets are on sale via www.alttickets.com/beth-hart-tickets but Please Note the York Barbican show, on Halloween October 31st, is Sold Out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dan Reed Network have announced the release of their forthcoming studio album.
Entitled Let’s Hear it for the King, the band’s sixth studio album will be released on March 4th 2022 by Drakkar Entertainment.
On the album, the band’s first since 2018’s Origins, the band have come full circle to their original vison and statement - to challenge beliefs and smash down existing protocol.
"We are chomping at the bit to get out there and bring people what we genuinely believe is the heaviest, funkiest and most melodic DRN album to date," says Dan Reed. "These songs are the strongest representation of the band’s sound that we’ve ever created. You have been warned!"
The new album will include special/ limited editions such as Coloured Vinyl and Limited Edition box set (Dan Reed has created personalised, hand-written lyric sheets for each song from Let’s Hear It For The King that will be randomly placed inside the limited-edition sets).
Pre-order the album from https://danreednetwork.tmstor.es
The first single from the album, 'Starlight,' is available now.
The track was composed by Dan Reed after a long drive back from seeing AC/DC perform in Berlin, hence the homage to their style on the song.
"It's that constant heartbeat pulse of AC/DC that makes it the most infectious rock music on the planet" says the Network frontman.
Lyrically, 'Starlight' is about the social media generation's addiction to hunting for likes, followers, fame, and fortune - the question being will all that attention feed the ego only, or will you channel all the light shone upon you in a direction that feeds a bigger picture of feeding the collective soul?
Entitled Let’s Hear it for the King, the band’s sixth studio album will be released on March 4th 2022 by Drakkar Entertainment.
On the album, the band’s first since 2018’s Origins, the band have come full circle to their original vison and statement - to challenge beliefs and smash down existing protocol.
"We are chomping at the bit to get out there and bring people what we genuinely believe is the heaviest, funkiest and most melodic DRN album to date," says Dan Reed. "These songs are the strongest representation of the band’s sound that we’ve ever created. You have been warned!"
The new album will include special/ limited editions such as Coloured Vinyl and Limited Edition box set (Dan Reed has created personalised, hand-written lyric sheets for each song from Let’s Hear It For The King that will be randomly placed inside the limited-edition sets).
Pre-order the album from https://danreednetwork.tmstor.es
The first single from the album, 'Starlight,' is available now.
The track was composed by Dan Reed after a long drive back from seeing AC/DC perform in Berlin, hence the homage to their style on the song.
"It's that constant heartbeat pulse of AC/DC that makes it the most infectious rock music on the planet" says the Network frontman.
Lyrically, 'Starlight' is about the social media generation's addiction to hunting for likes, followers, fame, and fortune - the question being will all that attention feed the ego only, or will you channel all the light shone upon you in a direction that feeds a bigger picture of feeding the collective soul?
The release of the new album coincides with DRN’s Spring 2022 European Tour, which includes a nine-date co-headline UK run with Reckless Love featuring special guests Collateral.
DRN will also be playing a special headline show for their Facebook group The Networkers in a secret location in Newcastle on Sunday February 27th where the band promise to celebrate the album’s release in style.
"The new album snarls and bites and we wanted to cut its teeth alongside some young, high-energy bands, so who better than Reckless Love and Collateral. Those boys can rock.
Anyone who’s seen DRN live knows that’s where we come to life. We’re ready to deliver a lot of energy and give the audience a direct shot of funk n’ roll!"
Tickets for all Dan Reed Network concerts are available from www.danreed-network.com/tour
Tickets for the UK concerts are available from www.gigantic.com
DAN REED NETWORK – UK Tour Dates 2022
(Co-headline with Reckless Love; Special Guests: Collateral)
Engine Rooms, Southampton - Monday 28 February
Tramshed, Cardiff - Tuesday 1 March
Rock City, Nottingham - Thursday 3 March
Academy 2, Manchester - Friday 4 March
Grand Central Hall, Liverpool - Saturday 5 March
The Garage, Glasgow - Sunday 6 March
The Mill, Birmingham - Tuesday 8 March
The Warehouse, Leeds - Wednesday 9 March
Electric Ballroom, London - Thursday 10 March
Let’s Hear it for The King - Record at The Commune Studio. Portland, Oregon.
Produced by Rob Daiker & Dan Reed
Co-producer on Let’s Hear It For The King & I See Angels : Brion James
Mixed by: Rob Daiker. Mastered by Stephan Hawkes
Dan Reed: Vocals, Guitar, Synths; Brion James: Guitar, Vocals, Synths, Orchestration; Melvin Brannon II: Bass, Vocals; Dan Pred: Drums, Percussion; Rob Daiker: Keyboards, Vocals, Guitar
Track Listing
PRETTY KARMA; THE GHOST INSIDE; STARLIGHT; SUPERNOVA; LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE KING; I SEE ANGELS; HOMEGROWN; STUMBLE; JUST MIGHT GET IT; WHERE’S THE REVOLUTION; ARE YOU READY?; UNFUCK MY WORLD; LAST DAY ON SATURN (Bonus Track on CD Edition Only)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DRN will also be playing a special headline show for their Facebook group The Networkers in a secret location in Newcastle on Sunday February 27th where the band promise to celebrate the album’s release in style.
"The new album snarls and bites and we wanted to cut its teeth alongside some young, high-energy bands, so who better than Reckless Love and Collateral. Those boys can rock.
Anyone who’s seen DRN live knows that’s where we come to life. We’re ready to deliver a lot of energy and give the audience a direct shot of funk n’ roll!"
Tickets for all Dan Reed Network concerts are available from www.danreed-network.com/tour
Tickets for the UK concerts are available from www.gigantic.com
DAN REED NETWORK – UK Tour Dates 2022
(Co-headline with Reckless Love; Special Guests: Collateral)
Engine Rooms, Southampton - Monday 28 February
Tramshed, Cardiff - Tuesday 1 March
Rock City, Nottingham - Thursday 3 March
Academy 2, Manchester - Friday 4 March
Grand Central Hall, Liverpool - Saturday 5 March
The Garage, Glasgow - Sunday 6 March
The Mill, Birmingham - Tuesday 8 March
The Warehouse, Leeds - Wednesday 9 March
Electric Ballroom, London - Thursday 10 March
Let’s Hear it for The King - Record at The Commune Studio. Portland, Oregon.
Produced by Rob Daiker & Dan Reed
Co-producer on Let’s Hear It For The King & I See Angels : Brion James
Mixed by: Rob Daiker. Mastered by Stephan Hawkes
Dan Reed: Vocals, Guitar, Synths; Brion James: Guitar, Vocals, Synths, Orchestration; Melvin Brannon II: Bass, Vocals; Dan Pred: Drums, Percussion; Rob Daiker: Keyboards, Vocals, Guitar
Track Listing
PRETTY KARMA; THE GHOST INSIDE; STARLIGHT; SUPERNOVA; LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE KING; I SEE ANGELS; HOMEGROWN; STUMBLE; JUST MIGHT GET IT; WHERE’S THE REVOLUTION; ARE YOU READY?; UNFUCK MY WORLD; LAST DAY ON SATURN (Bonus Track on CD Edition Only)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
French rock-blues singer-guitarist Félix Rabin returns to the UK in November with an eleven-date tour to promote current mini-album/ extended EP Pogboy.
Starting in Southampton at the 1865 on 11th November, the tour includes four headlining appearances, five co-headlining shows (with Italian blues rocker Eliana Cargnelutti), plus two festival slots (HRH Blues at Great Yarmouth, 12th November; The Lincoln Blues Rhythm and Rock Festival, 20th November, as headliner).
November Tour Dates
11th - 1865, Southampton
12th - HRH Blues, Great Yarmouth
14th - Mama Liz's, Stamford (afternoon show)
15th - The Cluny 2, Newcastle Upon Tyne
16th - Robin 2, Bilston
17th - Yardbirds Club, Grimsby
18th - Arts Club (Loft), Liverpool
19th - Studio 5, Keighley
20th - Lincoln Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival (headliner)
21st - The Green Hotel, Kinross
22nd - Bannermans, Edinburgh
Félix Rabin has wowed audiences and critics alike with his self-taught guitar virtuosity.
He has toured France and played several times at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland; he also toured the USA then, as his biog notes "looked for the blessing of the British. In the country of Pink Floyd and Michael Kiwanuka, he first played in a few small clubs, then step by step progressed to bigger stages, including Wishbone Ash inviting him to join them on their UK tour.”
Naming musicians such as John Mayer, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan as guitar inspirations as well as bands like Pink Floyd for sonic atmosphere, Rabin's style is nevertheless original, praised for adding inventive riffs and moody melodies to contemporary rock.
"As a French guy," says Felix, "I really can feel that music is much more into the culture of British people – I mean you can feel that Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Wishbone Ash and all the other great ones come from here.
For more than a year I wasn't able to perform in the UK, so I'm now more excited than ever to finally be back and perform my latest work, Pogboy, live on stage. I'm looking forward to meeting again with British audiences and to sharing more moments and experiences with them!"
Starting in Southampton at the 1865 on 11th November, the tour includes four headlining appearances, five co-headlining shows (with Italian blues rocker Eliana Cargnelutti), plus two festival slots (HRH Blues at Great Yarmouth, 12th November; The Lincoln Blues Rhythm and Rock Festival, 20th November, as headliner).
November Tour Dates
11th - 1865, Southampton
12th - HRH Blues, Great Yarmouth
14th - Mama Liz's, Stamford (afternoon show)
15th - The Cluny 2, Newcastle Upon Tyne
16th - Robin 2, Bilston
17th - Yardbirds Club, Grimsby
18th - Arts Club (Loft), Liverpool
19th - Studio 5, Keighley
20th - Lincoln Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival (headliner)
21st - The Green Hotel, Kinross
22nd - Bannermans, Edinburgh
Félix Rabin has wowed audiences and critics alike with his self-taught guitar virtuosity.
He has toured France and played several times at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland; he also toured the USA then, as his biog notes "looked for the blessing of the British. In the country of Pink Floyd and Michael Kiwanuka, he first played in a few small clubs, then step by step progressed to bigger stages, including Wishbone Ash inviting him to join them on their UK tour.”
Naming musicians such as John Mayer, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan as guitar inspirations as well as bands like Pink Floyd for sonic atmosphere, Rabin's style is nevertheless original, praised for adding inventive riffs and moody melodies to contemporary rock.
"As a French guy," says Felix, "I really can feel that music is much more into the culture of British people – I mean you can feel that Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Wishbone Ash and all the other great ones come from here.
For more than a year I wasn't able to perform in the UK, so I'm now more excited than ever to finally be back and perform my latest work, Pogboy, live on stage. I'm looking forward to meeting again with British audiences and to sharing more moments and experiences with them!"
After touring, Félix Rabin plans to start writing and recording again; probably for a full album.
He also notes that "I'll be back for a one-week tour at the end of January next year, including Giants of Rock, where we won the contest in 2020."
"If you want someone who is ploughing his own progressively tinged blues, rock, pop and soul furrow, Félix Rabin is your man. Vive la France; vive le Pogboy." - FabricationsHQ
"Félix’s six-track EP gushes forth some of the sweetest jazz infused blues rock I’ve heard in a long time… roll on the live shows!" - Powerplay
Check official website for further details and any updates: https://www.felixrabin.com/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
He also notes that "I'll be back for a one-week tour at the end of January next year, including Giants of Rock, where we won the contest in 2020."
"If you want someone who is ploughing his own progressively tinged blues, rock, pop and soul furrow, Félix Rabin is your man. Vive la France; vive le Pogboy." - FabricationsHQ
"Félix’s six-track EP gushes forth some of the sweetest jazz infused blues rock I’ve heard in a long time… roll on the live shows!" - Powerplay
Check official website for further details and any updates: https://www.felixrabin.com/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FM Keyboardist Jem Davis, under project name Pepperkid2, has released the first single from his forthcoming album Adventures In Pepperland.
'After the Rain,' a pulsating and weighty mid-tempo melodic rocker that features a purposeful vocal from Mike Dyer and guitar solo from Laurence Archer, is accompanied by a visually intense, kaleidoscopic styled video.
'After the Rain,' a pulsating and weighty mid-tempo melodic rocker that features a purposeful vocal from Mike Dyer and guitar solo from Laurence Archer, is accompanied by a visually intense, kaleidoscopic styled video.
The concept of the solo project came by way of a recent house move and an opportunity for some serious music writing during Lockdown, as Jem Davis elaborates:
"In the Summer of 2020, during Lockdown, I moved to a cottage near Lutterworth that came with an amazing, ready built Studio. Naming it Electric Pepperland I immersed myself in music, writing whatever inspired me.
It soon became clear there were many songs that didn’t fit the FM vibe, but I needed to get them out there somehow. So under the guise of a project I called Pepperkid2 I set to work!
Not being gifted in the vocal dept I asked my good friend Mike Dyer (Grand Slam) to be the main vocalist and co-writer. The album also features my fellow FM bandmates Jim Kirkpatrick (vocals and lead guitar on the title track), and the amazing voice of Steve Overland
(on the song 'Fools Lullaby').
My old friend Laurence Archer (Grand Slam) provides the guitar solo on After the Rain.
The album follows no genre restrictions so the styles are varied, but they all come from the mad world inside my head and from the heart!!"
Designed to be "genre-fluid" Adventures in Pepperland, which also features contribution from guitarist Nigel Spennewyn and backing vocals from Hayley Simones, escapes pigeonholing and offers listeners a rich, varied and joyful musical experience.
The album, released 12th November, is available for pre-order at http://www.pepperkid2.com/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"In the Summer of 2020, during Lockdown, I moved to a cottage near Lutterworth that came with an amazing, ready built Studio. Naming it Electric Pepperland I immersed myself in music, writing whatever inspired me.
It soon became clear there were many songs that didn’t fit the FM vibe, but I needed to get them out there somehow. So under the guise of a project I called Pepperkid2 I set to work!
Not being gifted in the vocal dept I asked my good friend Mike Dyer (Grand Slam) to be the main vocalist and co-writer. The album also features my fellow FM bandmates Jim Kirkpatrick (vocals and lead guitar on the title track), and the amazing voice of Steve Overland
(on the song 'Fools Lullaby').
My old friend Laurence Archer (Grand Slam) provides the guitar solo on After the Rain.
The album follows no genre restrictions so the styles are varied, but they all come from the mad world inside my head and from the heart!!"
Designed to be "genre-fluid" Adventures in Pepperland, which also features contribution from guitarist Nigel Spennewyn and backing vocals from Hayley Simones, escapes pigeonholing and offers listeners a rich, varied and joyful musical experience.
The album, released 12th November, is available for pre-order at http://www.pepperkid2.com/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Swedish metal-trio Nekromant have released a second track from their upcoming album Temple of Haal.
The new single, entitled 'Behind The Veil Of Eyes,' is, as described by the band, “a song that is cold as ice but at the same time warming. The lyrics convey a notion of hopelessness but acceptance before an impending doom. In short, a joyful little tune about darkness and death!”
The new single, entitled 'Behind The Veil Of Eyes,' is, as described by the band, “a song that is cold as ice but at the same time warming. The lyrics convey a notion of hopelessness but acceptance before an impending doom. In short, a joyful little tune about darkness and death!”
Standing on the shoulders of metal giants such as Black Sabbath and Pentagram, Nekromant (previously known as Serpent) are well versed in the art of crushing riffs and powerful melodies.
With a much-admired set of releases to their name, the three-piece from Vänersborg have been turning heads with their authentic, old school metal assault.
From a punishing percussive battery through to the Iommi-esque guitars, this power-trio understand that the riff is king, as demonstrated throughout their forthcoming album (the first fruits of their new deal with Swedish label Despotz Records).
Unashamedly old school heavy metal and full of crushing riffs and inescapable hooks, Temple of Haal embraces a typical Swedish darkness in amongst a desire to reject the notion of living life through social media and seeks to reconnect with the things that really matter.
Temple of Haal will be released 2nd December.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With a much-admired set of releases to their name, the three-piece from Vänersborg have been turning heads with their authentic, old school metal assault.
From a punishing percussive battery through to the Iommi-esque guitars, this power-trio understand that the riff is king, as demonstrated throughout their forthcoming album (the first fruits of their new deal with Swedish label Despotz Records).
Unashamedly old school heavy metal and full of crushing riffs and inescapable hooks, Temple of Haal embraces a typical Swedish darkness in amongst a desire to reject the notion of living life through social media and seeks to reconnect with the things that really matter.
Temple of Haal will be released 2nd December.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Dark Americana" artist Hannah Aldridge has just made available a digital only single release of 'Some Ghosts Don’t Make a Sound,' featuring former Godheads leader Jason Charles Miler.
The song will also feature as the B-side of the forthcoming 7" single release of her cover of Godhead’s 'Sinking.'
The song will also feature as the B-side of the forthcoming 7" single release of her cover of Godhead’s 'Sinking.'
Facing down demons of a life once lived from substance abuse to failed relationships and scars from an unforgiving bible belt Hannah Aldridge (raised in the extremely religious State of Alabama) has, since her early years, felt an affinity to the darkness found in Southern Gothic themes and a fondness for writing songs with darker elements.
A daughter of the American south and Muscle Shoals legend Walt Aldridge, Hannah Aldridge launched her career with her 2014 debut Razor Wire.
The debut album drew the attention of music critics and sent her touring across the world, visiting ten different countries across the next seven years.
Her second full-length studio album Gold Rush was released in 2017 followed by acclaimed live document Live in Black and White, which saw release in 2020 just before the global pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.
Mixing her personal life and the sounds of her hometown, Hannah Aldridge takes influences from across the rock genre. Working with one foot in country music and the other in rock has given Aldridge a fresh, Southern rock style mixed with Southern Gothic storytelling.
Hannah Aldridge – UK Tour December 2021
(with Gustav Sjödin and special guest Jason Charles Miller)
Dec 4 – Dinton, nr Aylesbury, Dinton Parish Church
Dec 5 - Manchester, The Rose and Monkey
Dec 6 - London, The Half Moon Putney
Dec 7 - Edinburgh, The Voodoo Rooms
Dec 8 - Glasgow, The Glad Cafe
Dec 9 - Aberdour, The Woodside Hotel
Dec 10 - Bewdley, Music in the Halls
Dec 11 - York, 45 Vinyl
"Hannah Aldridge is one of the very best young songwriters around and you really can spend your money and not feel short-changed." - No Depression
"Musically Hannah Aldridge sits in a place that some call Dark Americana - and it covers her songs about the dark side pretty well." - Blues Matters
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A daughter of the American south and Muscle Shoals legend Walt Aldridge, Hannah Aldridge launched her career with her 2014 debut Razor Wire.
The debut album drew the attention of music critics and sent her touring across the world, visiting ten different countries across the next seven years.
Her second full-length studio album Gold Rush was released in 2017 followed by acclaimed live document Live in Black and White, which saw release in 2020 just before the global pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.
Mixing her personal life and the sounds of her hometown, Hannah Aldridge takes influences from across the rock genre. Working with one foot in country music and the other in rock has given Aldridge a fresh, Southern rock style mixed with Southern Gothic storytelling.
Hannah Aldridge – UK Tour December 2021
(with Gustav Sjödin and special guest Jason Charles Miller)
Dec 4 – Dinton, nr Aylesbury, Dinton Parish Church
Dec 5 - Manchester, The Rose and Monkey
Dec 6 - London, The Half Moon Putney
Dec 7 - Edinburgh, The Voodoo Rooms
Dec 8 - Glasgow, The Glad Cafe
Dec 9 - Aberdour, The Woodside Hotel
Dec 10 - Bewdley, Music in the Halls
Dec 11 - York, 45 Vinyl
"Hannah Aldridge is one of the very best young songwriters around and you really can spend your money and not feel short-changed." - No Depression
"Musically Hannah Aldridge sits in a place that some call Dark Americana - and it covers her songs about the dark side pretty well." - Blues Matters
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
British southern-tinged rockers Bad Touch continue their classic cover releases with new single, their take on The Allman Brothers Band classic, 'Midnight Rider.'
The single has been released as promotion toward their Better Late Than Never November & December UK tour, with Special Guests Piston (all shows except Gravesend; see tour poster below).
Tickets are available from www.badtouchrocks.co.uk/gigs-tours
Produced by Chris Sheldon (Foo Fighters, Gun, Feeder) at the new Marshall Studio in Bletchley, the Norfolk based quintet’s rendition stays faithful to the tempo and verse harmonies of the original but with thicker riffed, blues-rock guitar weight.
"The original is one of mine and Chris Sheldon’s all-time favourite songs; I’m thrilled with how our version came out. It’s got harmonies out the wazoo, it’s heavy, dirty and Rob Glendinning’s guitar solo is a belter!
It might bother the Allman Brothers purists, but hopefully everyone loves it one eighth of as much as I do!"
The single has been released as promotion toward their Better Late Than Never November & December UK tour, with Special Guests Piston (all shows except Gravesend; see tour poster below).
Tickets are available from www.badtouchrocks.co.uk/gigs-tours
Produced by Chris Sheldon (Foo Fighters, Gun, Feeder) at the new Marshall Studio in Bletchley, the Norfolk based quintet’s rendition stays faithful to the tempo and verse harmonies of the original but with thicker riffed, blues-rock guitar weight.
"The original is one of mine and Chris Sheldon’s all-time favourite songs; I’m thrilled with how our version came out. It’s got harmonies out the wazoo, it’s heavy, dirty and Rob Glendinning’s guitar solo is a belter!
It might bother the Allman Brothers purists, but hopefully everyone loves it one eighth of as much as I do!"
Bad Touch were one of the first bands to enter the new Marshall Studio to record a number of tracks.
A state-of-the-art recording facility located at Marshall Amplification’s global headquarters in Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, the console is built around a 70s Neve 8048, heavily modified and customised for Marshall by Neve specialist Blake Devitt.
"After such an awful 18 months for the music business, to be invited to such a space was a real gift," continues Stevie Westwood. "We thank Chris Sheldon for making the songs sound interstellar!"
You can also view the recently released 20 minute film documentary on Bad Touch’s time at Marshall Studio here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhiA4rBwNoQ
Purchase/ stream the single here: https://found.ee/badtouch_midnightrider
Bad Touch are Stevie Westwood (vocals), Rob Glendinning & Daniel Seekings (guitars), Michael Bailey (bass), George Drewry (drums).
A state-of-the-art recording facility located at Marshall Amplification’s global headquarters in Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, the console is built around a 70s Neve 8048, heavily modified and customised for Marshall by Neve specialist Blake Devitt.
"After such an awful 18 months for the music business, to be invited to such a space was a real gift," continues Stevie Westwood. "We thank Chris Sheldon for making the songs sound interstellar!"
You can also view the recently released 20 minute film documentary on Bad Touch’s time at Marshall Studio here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhiA4rBwNoQ
Purchase/ stream the single here: https://found.ee/badtouch_midnightrider
Bad Touch are Stevie Westwood (vocals), Rob Glendinning & Daniel Seekings (guitars), Michael Bailey (bass), George Drewry (drums).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London based soul-bluesman Mississippi MacDonald has released a second single from his forthcoming new album Do Right, Say Right, which will be released 19th November.
The smooth, mid-tempo blues guitar, horns and Hammond of 'It Can't Hurt Me' tells an archetypal Blues tale of suspected infidelity, but with an modern angle shake-it-off optimism, as Mississippi MacDonald explains:
"Everybody needs a little help from their friends, however, it’s the plight of the Blues singer that they always seem to get the kind of 'outside help' that they could well do without… But, you know, when bad luck and trouble come knocking there's always a song in there somewhere.
And you've got to keep on going: you must never give up. So, if those lights are on way past midnight, and if something doesn't look right, whatever is happening… well, It Can't Hurt Me!"
The smooth, mid-tempo blues guitar, horns and Hammond of 'It Can't Hurt Me' tells an archetypal Blues tale of suspected infidelity, but with an modern angle shake-it-off optimism, as Mississippi MacDonald explains:
"Everybody needs a little help from their friends, however, it’s the plight of the Blues singer that they always seem to get the kind of 'outside help' that they could well do without… But, you know, when bad luck and trouble come knocking there's always a song in there somewhere.
And you've got to keep on going: you must never give up. So, if those lights are on way past midnight, and if something doesn't look right, whatever is happening… well, It Can't Hurt Me!"
Do Right, Say Right is Mississippi MacDonald’s seventh album, continuing the line from Devil's Chain, American Accent and Dress For The Money (all with The Cottonmouth Kings), 2017’s Mississippi MacDonald and Steve Bailey With The Soul Fixers, 2018’s Shake ‘Em On Down (with Steve Bailey) and last year’s This Is How It Is.
Dress For The Money and American Accent reached #1 and #3 respectively in the UK IBBA Blues Charts.
Mississippi MacDonald and Steve Bailey With The Soul Fixers was one of the IBBA Top 12 Picks of 2017; the album also garnered significant airplay, including on BBC Radio 2’s The Paul Jones Show, with Jones described it as "a really, really excellent album."
With Do Right, Say Right Mississippi MacDonald forges further ahead on his musical journey.
Fans of classic Blues and soul and original talent will find rich pickings within.
“It’s modern; it’s not musical archaeology. It’s authentic and celebrates a rich, fantastic tradition.
It’s soul-blues and you’ve got to put your best into it."
- Mississippi MacDonald
'It Can’t Hurt Me' is available on all digital platforms:
https://linktr.ee/mississippimacdonald
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dress For The Money and American Accent reached #1 and #3 respectively in the UK IBBA Blues Charts.
Mississippi MacDonald and Steve Bailey With The Soul Fixers was one of the IBBA Top 12 Picks of 2017; the album also garnered significant airplay, including on BBC Radio 2’s The Paul Jones Show, with Jones described it as "a really, really excellent album."
With Do Right, Say Right Mississippi MacDonald forges further ahead on his musical journey.
Fans of classic Blues and soul and original talent will find rich pickings within.
“It’s modern; it’s not musical archaeology. It’s authentic and celebrates a rich, fantastic tradition.
It’s soul-blues and you’ve got to put your best into it."
- Mississippi MacDonald
'It Can’t Hurt Me' is available on all digital platforms:
https://linktr.ee/mississippimacdonald
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sweet, featuring fifty-year band veteran, guitarist Andy Scott, have just released a new single entitled 'Everything 2021.' Stream and download the single from https://bfan.link/everything-2021
Of the re-recording of the band's 2002 full-harmonies rock ballad, Andy Scott says "During the rehearsals for Sweet’s forthcoming Hellraiser Tour we were trying out various songs from our back catalogue that could be added to the set list. As soon as I heard (singer) Paul Manzi and (bassist) Lee Small’s vocals on the song Everything, I knew that we needed to get it down and record it as our new single!"
'Everything 2021' is a totally new recording of the song that originally featured on the album Sweetlife, released in 2002.
"I think the new version is a far superior production," continues Andy Scott. "It’s much closer to how I envisaged it when I co-wrote the song."
Of the re-recording of the band's 2002 full-harmonies rock ballad, Andy Scott says "During the rehearsals for Sweet’s forthcoming Hellraiser Tour we were trying out various songs from our back catalogue that could be added to the set list. As soon as I heard (singer) Paul Manzi and (bassist) Lee Small’s vocals on the song Everything, I knew that we needed to get it down and record it as our new single!"
'Everything 2021' is a totally new recording of the song that originally featured on the album Sweetlife, released in 2002.
"I think the new version is a far superior production," continues Andy Scott. "It’s much closer to how I envisaged it when I co-wrote the song."
Sweet are a now fifty year-old British rock and roll institution; they have sold 55 million albums and had 34 number #1 hit singles.
Sweet – Hellraiser Nov-Dec 2021 UK Tour with Special Guests Limehouse Lizzy
(tickets: www.thegigcartel.com 24 Hr Box Office : 08444 780 898)
Brighton, Chalk - Thursday 25 November
Southampton, 1865 - Friday 26 November
Frome Cheese & Grain - Saturday 27 November
London, Islington Assembly Hall - Sunday 28 November
Birmingham, Town Hall - Thursday 2 December
Shrewsbury, The Buttermarket - Friday 3 December
Bexhill, De La Warr Pavillion - Saturday 4 December
Norwich, The Waterfront - Sunday 5 December
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Wednesday 8 December
Glasgow, The Garage - Thursday 9 December
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Friday 10 December
Holmfirth, Picturedrome - Saturday 11 December
Cardiff, University SU - Friday 17 December
Manchester, Academy - Saturday 18 December
Nottingham, Rock City - Sunday 19 December
Bury St Edmunds, Apex - Monday 20 December
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sweet – Hellraiser Nov-Dec 2021 UK Tour with Special Guests Limehouse Lizzy
(tickets: www.thegigcartel.com 24 Hr Box Office : 08444 780 898)
Brighton, Chalk - Thursday 25 November
Southampton, 1865 - Friday 26 November
Frome Cheese & Grain - Saturday 27 November
London, Islington Assembly Hall - Sunday 28 November
Birmingham, Town Hall - Thursday 2 December
Shrewsbury, The Buttermarket - Friday 3 December
Bexhill, De La Warr Pavillion - Saturday 4 December
Norwich, The Waterfront - Sunday 5 December
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Wednesday 8 December
Glasgow, The Garage - Thursday 9 December
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Friday 10 December
Holmfirth, Picturedrome - Saturday 11 December
Cardiff, University SU - Friday 17 December
Manchester, Academy - Saturday 18 December
Nottingham, Rock City - Sunday 19 December
Bury St Edmunds, Apex - Monday 20 December
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Legendary singer and performer Dion has released a brand new single entitled 'Angel in the Alleyways.'
The single, with accompanying video, features Patti Scialfa on backing & harmony vocals and Bruce Springsteen guesting on harmonica and guitar.
Written by Dion and Mike Aquilina 'Angel in the Alleyways' is the third song to be released that will feature on Dion’s forthcoming album Stomping Ground, released November 19th through Joe Bonamassa’s Keeping The Blues Alive (KTBA) Records.
Dion has long been known as a man of faith and 'Angel in the Alleyways' reflects that in terms of its lyric and accompanying video, which was shot at the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux (the eleventh century Spanish monastery fell into disuse in the 1830s and was ultimately shipped, in pieces, to Miami where it was reconstructed in 1950s).
The song’s theme of belief also carries a 'guiding line' that underscores Dion’s dedication to the blues:
"Who guides the hand that comes to play? Like BB King and Stevie Ray.
Who takes the pain we didn't choose? Turns it into Chicago Blues."
The single, with accompanying video, features Patti Scialfa on backing & harmony vocals and Bruce Springsteen guesting on harmonica and guitar.
Written by Dion and Mike Aquilina 'Angel in the Alleyways' is the third song to be released that will feature on Dion’s forthcoming album Stomping Ground, released November 19th through Joe Bonamassa’s Keeping The Blues Alive (KTBA) Records.
Dion has long been known as a man of faith and 'Angel in the Alleyways' reflects that in terms of its lyric and accompanying video, which was shot at the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux (the eleventh century Spanish monastery fell into disuse in the 1830s and was ultimately shipped, in pieces, to Miami where it was reconstructed in 1950s).
The song’s theme of belief also carries a 'guiding line' that underscores Dion’s dedication to the blues:
"Who guides the hand that comes to play? Like BB King and Stevie Ray.
Who takes the pain we didn't choose? Turns it into Chicago Blues."
Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen previously worked with Dion on 'Hymn To Him,' a track from the singer's 2020 Blues With Friends album.
Dion sent Patti Scialfa only the most basic guitar & vocal track on which to lay her vocal; she returned with 64 tracks fully arranged. As Dion quipped, "64 tracks is more than I’ve used on all my records combined!
"I gave Patti a simple demo of Angel in the Alleyways; what you’ll hear now is what Patti made of it. There are five verses, and she treated each of them in a unique way. Her husband then contributed the right tones on guitar and harmonica. They are my dream team."
Stomping Ground, produced by Wayne Hood and Dion, features noted guest contributors on each track including the luminary likes of Mark Knopfler, Eric Clapton, Peter Frampton, Billy F Gibbons, Keb’ Mo, Sonny Landreth, Rickie Lee Jones, Bonamassa and Boz Scaggs.
The album also includes original liner notes by Pete Townshend.
Stomping Ground will be available on CD, Double Vinyl, Digitally and to Stream.
Pre-order Stomping Ground / stream 'Angel In The Alleyways' at https://bit.ly/DionAlleyways
Official merch store for Stomping Ground and Blues With Friends: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/dion-dimucci
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dion sent Patti Scialfa only the most basic guitar & vocal track on which to lay her vocal; she returned with 64 tracks fully arranged. As Dion quipped, "64 tracks is more than I’ve used on all my records combined!
"I gave Patti a simple demo of Angel in the Alleyways; what you’ll hear now is what Patti made of it. There are five verses, and she treated each of them in a unique way. Her husband then contributed the right tones on guitar and harmonica. They are my dream team."
Stomping Ground, produced by Wayne Hood and Dion, features noted guest contributors on each track including the luminary likes of Mark Knopfler, Eric Clapton, Peter Frampton, Billy F Gibbons, Keb’ Mo, Sonny Landreth, Rickie Lee Jones, Bonamassa and Boz Scaggs.
The album also includes original liner notes by Pete Townshend.
Stomping Ground will be available on CD, Double Vinyl, Digitally and to Stream.
Pre-order Stomping Ground / stream 'Angel In The Alleyways' at https://bit.ly/DionAlleyways
Official merch store for Stomping Ground and Blues With Friends: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/dion-dimucci
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Award-Winning, smoky-voiced roots-blues singer-songwriter and bandleader Elles Bailey has released a new single entitled Sunshine City.
The song is lifted from forthcoming studio album Shining in the Half Light, which will be released next year.
The pacey 'Sunshine City’ is one of Elles Bailey's rockiest releases, as the singer confirms:
"I guess you could say it's the polar opposite to my last single Cheats & Liars - Sunshine City doesn't take itself seriously in any way! It's my 'throw your hair back, laugh out loud, put your foot down, drive faster' kind of a tune!"
The song is lifted from forthcoming studio album Shining in the Half Light, which will be released next year.
The pacey 'Sunshine City’ is one of Elles Bailey's rockiest releases, as the singer confirms:
"I guess you could say it's the polar opposite to my last single Cheats & Liars - Sunshine City doesn't take itself seriously in any way! It's my 'throw your hair back, laugh out loud, put your foot down, drive faster' kind of a tune!"
Elles Bailey co-wrote every track on the new album with a rich array of collaborators both in the UK and over the Atlantic in Nashville. However, unlike her last records — both recorded Stateside — this is her first UKrecorded offering. She and her touring band headed to Devon to Middle Farm Studios in December of last year to record the album in isolation, with new producer Dan Weller.
The new album title reflects the positivity that Elles Bailey she was determined to pay forward in dark times:
"It's called Shining in the Half Light because there we all were, in this time of complete uncertainty, fear, worry and isolation, and yet artists were still putting themselves on a screen, warts and all, and that brought people together, breaking down barriers and creating a special connection.
That to me is what the album is about. Being inspired in a time that was quite frankly, really uninspiring."
Elles Bailey is also issuing a special, limited-edition 4-track CD: The Sunshine City EP.
This includes ‘Sunshine City,' ‘Woman Like Me,' ‘Walk Away’ & ‘Love is Gonna Win’. The CD will be available at Elles’ shows over her tour. However, she’s also been able to make a very small amount available via the store on her website. These are sure to get snapped up fast, so act fast to get this exclusive, limited-edition physical release by ordering from her store or grabbing a copy at her forthcoming shows.
'Sunshine City' is now available to download & stream on all digital platforms:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ellesbailey/sunshine-city
The new album title reflects the positivity that Elles Bailey she was determined to pay forward in dark times:
"It's called Shining in the Half Light because there we all were, in this time of complete uncertainty, fear, worry and isolation, and yet artists were still putting themselves on a screen, warts and all, and that brought people together, breaking down barriers and creating a special connection.
That to me is what the album is about. Being inspired in a time that was quite frankly, really uninspiring."
Elles Bailey is also issuing a special, limited-edition 4-track CD: The Sunshine City EP.
This includes ‘Sunshine City,' ‘Woman Like Me,' ‘Walk Away’ & ‘Love is Gonna Win’. The CD will be available at Elles’ shows over her tour. However, she’s also been able to make a very small amount available via the store on her website. These are sure to get snapped up fast, so act fast to get this exclusive, limited-edition physical release by ordering from her store or grabbing a copy at her forthcoming shows.
'Sunshine City' is now available to download & stream on all digital platforms:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ellesbailey/sunshine-city
Photo by Alan Dunkley
Elles Bailey will be back in her other "home" - that of the road - in late October and November for her 15-date Sunshine City tour of the UK.
Ticket purchasing: https://www.ellesbailey.com/tour
Oct 28 : Newbury, Arlington Arts (SOLD OUT)
Oct 29 : Kirton in Lindsay, Town Hall (SOLD OUT)
Nov 3 : Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
Nov 4 : Manchester, Night and Day
Nov 5 : Liverpool, Philharmonic (LAST TICKETS)
Nov 12 : Greystones, Sheffield
Nov 19 : Shoreham, Ropetackle Art (LAST TICLKETS)
Nov 21 : Exeter, Phoenix
Nov 23 : Cambridge, Junction 2
Nov 26 : Bewdley, Music in the Hall (SOLD OUT)
Nov 27 : Lichfield, Guildhall (LAST TICKETS)
Nov 28 : Fleet, The Harlington (MORE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE)
Dec 4 : Bath, Chapel Arts (SOLD OUT)
Dec 9 : Glasgow, King Tuts
Dec 11 : Gateshead, Sage
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ticket purchasing: https://www.ellesbailey.com/tour
Oct 28 : Newbury, Arlington Arts (SOLD OUT)
Oct 29 : Kirton in Lindsay, Town Hall (SOLD OUT)
Nov 3 : Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
Nov 4 : Manchester, Night and Day
Nov 5 : Liverpool, Philharmonic (LAST TICKETS)
Nov 12 : Greystones, Sheffield
Nov 19 : Shoreham, Ropetackle Art (LAST TICLKETS)
Nov 21 : Exeter, Phoenix
Nov 23 : Cambridge, Junction 2
Nov 26 : Bewdley, Music in the Hall (SOLD OUT)
Nov 27 : Lichfield, Guildhall (LAST TICKETS)
Nov 28 : Fleet, The Harlington (MORE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE)
Dec 4 : Bath, Chapel Arts (SOLD OUT)
Dec 9 : Glasgow, King Tuts
Dec 11 : Gateshead, Sage
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On the southern tailored coattails of Robert Jon & The Wreck’s just-completed and well received UK tour, which included sold out concerts in Manchester, Nottingham, London and Edinburgh, the Northern Californian quintet have announced a 12 date return to the UK in May 2022 (tour date poster below).
Planet Rock are now running an exclusive 48-hour ticket pre-sale from Wednesday October 13th via:
www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
Tickets will then go on general sale at 9am on Friday October 15th via:
www.alttickets.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets
The 2022 tour will, as the successful 2021 dates have just done, support and promote the band’s excellent, recently released new album Shine a Light On Me Brother.
The album features the infectious southern style rock and roll anthems 'Shine a Light On Me Brother' and 'Everyday' which, as singles, garnered airplay on a number of UK radio stations including Planet Rock, BBC Radio 2, Radio Caroline, The Max and Total Rock, among many others.
Planet Rock are now running an exclusive 48-hour ticket pre-sale from Wednesday October 13th via:
www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
Tickets will then go on general sale at 9am on Friday October 15th via:
www.alttickets.com/robert-jon-the-wreck-tickets
The 2022 tour will, as the successful 2021 dates have just done, support and promote the band’s excellent, recently released new album Shine a Light On Me Brother.
The album features the infectious southern style rock and roll anthems 'Shine a Light On Me Brother' and 'Everyday' which, as singles, garnered airplay on a number of UK radio stations including Planet Rock, BBC Radio 2, Radio Caroline, The Max and Total Rock, among many others.
Shine a Light on Me Brother is available on CD, vinyl, limited edition deluxe coloured vinyl and limited edition bundles including signed deluxe edition vinyl, limited edition t-shirt, signed CD, retro California vanity plates and signed limited edition photos of the band:
https://robertjonandthewreck.com/collections/eu-uk-store
https://robertjonandthewreck.com/collections/usa-store
Robert Jon & The Wreck are:
Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, backing vocals), Steve Maggiora (keyboards, backing vocals), Henry James (lead guitar, backing vocals), Warren Murrel (bass, backing vocals).
https://robertjonandthewreck.com/collections/eu-uk-store
https://robertjonandthewreck.com/collections/usa-store
Robert Jon & The Wreck are:
Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, backing vocals), Steve Maggiora (keyboards, backing vocals), Henry James (lead guitar, backing vocals), Warren Murrel (bass, backing vocals).
"With Shine a Light On Me Brother Robert Jon & The Wreck have delivered the Southern California comfort of ten songs that hit that southern soul, country and rock 'n' roll spot."
- FabricationsHQ
"Robert Jon & The Wreck delivers a barnstorming night out."
- Rock at Night
"Shine A Light On Me Brother is a striking ten-track barn burner."
– Rock and Blues Muse
"It’s like hearing the Blues Brothers and Blackberry Smoke doing Proud Mary in the desert."
– Classic Rock
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- FabricationsHQ
"Robert Jon & The Wreck delivers a barnstorming night out."
- Rock at Night
"Shine A Light On Me Brother is a striking ten-track barn burner."
– Rock and Blues Muse
"It’s like hearing the Blues Brothers and Blackberry Smoke doing Proud Mary in the desert."
– Classic Rock
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Derby based alt-rock girl trio MuddiBrooke will release their debut EP, Lunacy, on the 22nd October 2021.
Formed in 2020, MuddiBrooke – "Brooke" (Harriet McDonnell) - lead vocals, guitar; Anna Melidone - bass, backing vocals; Mary Prince - drums – have previously released two singles, receiving airplay on Kerrang! Radio and garnering a Track of the Week choice on BBC Introducing.
The songs and stories on the 5 track Lunacy ask the question "What does it feel like to be one of society’s rejects?" We all fall down from time to time and it’s important to pick ourselves up again.
We must first own that rejection, accept it and then understand that it is fine to be your own true self.
MuddiBrooke express themselves clearly by owning their past and the angst of identity; the EP songs help deliver the message of self-acceptance, being your own person and to wear that proudly.
MuddiBrooke also discovered opportunities in challenging Covid times of forced separation.
Songs such as 'Fake It' for example speak about daily struggles and the things we need to do to get through, while 'Liverpool Guy' tells a tale of celebrating your inner party animal and enjoying life’s freedoms to the full…
Formed in 2020, MuddiBrooke – "Brooke" (Harriet McDonnell) - lead vocals, guitar; Anna Melidone - bass, backing vocals; Mary Prince - drums – have previously released two singles, receiving airplay on Kerrang! Radio and garnering a Track of the Week choice on BBC Introducing.
The songs and stories on the 5 track Lunacy ask the question "What does it feel like to be one of society’s rejects?" We all fall down from time to time and it’s important to pick ourselves up again.
We must first own that rejection, accept it and then understand that it is fine to be your own true self.
MuddiBrooke express themselves clearly by owning their past and the angst of identity; the EP songs help deliver the message of self-acceptance, being your own person and to wear that proudly.
MuddiBrooke also discovered opportunities in challenging Covid times of forced separation.
Songs such as 'Fake It' for example speak about daily struggles and the things we need to do to get through, while 'Liverpool Guy' tells a tale of celebrating your inner party animal and enjoying life’s freedoms to the full…
"We love to be able to play together, bringing our songs to life and hearing them as we first imagined, it’s always the best feeling for us. You can plan beforehand but songs truly take another shape when you plug in together and hear them, they’re supposed to be loud and that’s what we’re here to do!"
- Brooke
Lunacy was produced and mixed at Snug Recording Co in Nottingham by the band, Robin Newman and Richard Collins; it was mastered by Joe Caithness.
The EP is available for pre-order now at: https://www.muddibrooke.com
Track listing:
Devil; Liverpool Guy; Straight Jacket; Turn To Dust; Fake It
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Brooke
Lunacy was produced and mixed at Snug Recording Co in Nottingham by the band, Robin Newman and Richard Collins; it was mastered by Joe Caithness.
The EP is available for pre-order now at: https://www.muddibrooke.com
Track listing:
Devil; Liverpool Guy; Straight Jacket; Turn To Dust; Fake It
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Matt Patershuk has announced the release of his new album An Honest Effort.
The album will be released on November 19th on Black Hen Music.
Accompanied by Steve Dawson (guitar, pedal steel, Weissenborn), Jeremy Holmes (bass, mandolin) Gary Craig (percussion), Keri Latimer (additional vocals) and Fats Kaplin (fiddle, ukulele, banjo, harmonica), An Honest Effort is also Matt Patershuk’s best record to date.
An Honest Effort is just that; earthy, honest music and equally honest storytelling about folks trying, in the face of unfavourable odds, to give it a good old-fashioned go.
Much like the years 2020 and 2021, results vary, but all are better off for the attempt.
A singer and songwriter first, Matt Patershuk values simplicity but with small details that bring the story of a song to life; said songs aren’t devoid of metaphor, but you’ll always know what the song is about.
'Turn the Radio Up' for example is about life together in middle age ("it’s more difficult than it was when you were young, but it’s still just as good") while 'Afraid to Speak Her Name,' a song with no chorus, is akin to a little painting that describes a small scene (Steve Dawson paints the same picture with his Weissenborn after Matt Patershuk has finished singing).
The album will be released on November 19th on Black Hen Music.
Accompanied by Steve Dawson (guitar, pedal steel, Weissenborn), Jeremy Holmes (bass, mandolin) Gary Craig (percussion), Keri Latimer (additional vocals) and Fats Kaplin (fiddle, ukulele, banjo, harmonica), An Honest Effort is also Matt Patershuk’s best record to date.
An Honest Effort is just that; earthy, honest music and equally honest storytelling about folks trying, in the face of unfavourable odds, to give it a good old-fashioned go.
Much like the years 2020 and 2021, results vary, but all are better off for the attempt.
A singer and songwriter first, Matt Patershuk values simplicity but with small details that bring the story of a song to life; said songs aren’t devoid of metaphor, but you’ll always know what the song is about.
'Turn the Radio Up' for example is about life together in middle age ("it’s more difficult than it was when you were young, but it’s still just as good") while 'Afraid to Speak Her Name,' a song with no chorus, is akin to a little painting that describes a small scene (Steve Dawson paints the same picture with his Weissenborn after Matt Patershuk has finished singing).
An Honest Effort will be available on CD, as download and Streaming
www.mattpatershuk.com
"Waylon and Kris spring to mind when comparing Patershuk’s music, and to make that comparison isn’t fanciful." - Americana-UK
"Matt Patershuk writes country music for the thinking man, blues for the hopeful one, and soul for those who haven’t lost theirs yet." - The Big Takeover
"…a massive talent and an incredible songwriter… Matt Patershuk has been flying under the radar for far too long." - Country Music People
"…every nuance drips with sincerity and every syllable rings with the truth... you should listen and explore the heart of a poet." - Maverick
Matt Patershuk lives near the hamlet of La Glace in Alberta, Canada with his wife, two daughters, several dogs, cats, horses and sheep.
While not blessed with an abundance of natural ability in his endeavours, he’s always willing to give things a good try, and never lets a lack of experience or formal training get in his way.
He applies the same ethic to his self-taught song writing and music as he does to fixing a furnace, installing a stock waterer, building a jewellery box, or taking a picture.
And, as can be heard on his albums, he loves words as much as he does music.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
www.mattpatershuk.com
"Waylon and Kris spring to mind when comparing Patershuk’s music, and to make that comparison isn’t fanciful." - Americana-UK
"Matt Patershuk writes country music for the thinking man, blues for the hopeful one, and soul for those who haven’t lost theirs yet." - The Big Takeover
"…a massive talent and an incredible songwriter… Matt Patershuk has been flying under the radar for far too long." - Country Music People
"…every nuance drips with sincerity and every syllable rings with the truth... you should listen and explore the heart of a poet." - Maverick
Matt Patershuk lives near the hamlet of La Glace in Alberta, Canada with his wife, two daughters, several dogs, cats, horses and sheep.
While not blessed with an abundance of natural ability in his endeavours, he’s always willing to give things a good try, and never lets a lack of experience or formal training get in his way.
He applies the same ethic to his self-taught song writing and music as he does to fixing a furnace, installing a stock waterer, building a jewellery box, or taking a picture.
And, as can be heard on his albums, he loves words as much as he does music.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Power blues-rock guitarist singer-songwriter Troy Redfern might be in line for a busiest and most productive (and certainly one of the most noticed/ seen) musician in the UK 2021 award.
Having recently released his excellent new solo album ...The Fire Cosmic! (featuring latest single 'Stone,' below), just come off the Robert Jon & The Wreck UK tour as Special Guest support and three further notable Special Guest tours upcoming, the slide guitar maestro has now signed an endorsement deal with the world's leading guitar strings manufacturer, Ernie Ball.
"When I first started playing guitar at age thirteen the very first set of strings I bought were Ernie Ball along with my first electric guitar," says Troy Redfern, continuing "All of my guitar heroes were using them, the 'who's who' of the world's leading guitarists, and there's a reason why - Ernie Ball strings are the best, most consistent, comfortable strings out there. They just feel like home to me, especially after using them for over thirty years.
I'm totally honoured to now be endorsed by a company that I've loved for my whole guitar playing career."
Having recently released his excellent new solo album ...The Fire Cosmic! (featuring latest single 'Stone,' below), just come off the Robert Jon & The Wreck UK tour as Special Guest support and three further notable Special Guest tours upcoming, the slide guitar maestro has now signed an endorsement deal with the world's leading guitar strings manufacturer, Ernie Ball.
"When I first started playing guitar at age thirteen the very first set of strings I bought were Ernie Ball along with my first electric guitar," says Troy Redfern, continuing "All of my guitar heroes were using them, the 'who's who' of the world's leading guitarists, and there's a reason why - Ernie Ball strings are the best, most consistent, comfortable strings out there. They just feel like home to me, especially after using them for over thirty years.
I'm totally honoured to now be endorsed by a company that I've loved for my whole guitar playing career."
Following his Special Guest slot on the recent Robert Jon & The Wreck UK tour, Troy Redfern and his band will be back out on the road supporting The Quireboys in October & November (as well as January & June 2022, see poster below), Wille & The Bandits (March & April 2022) and When Rivers Meet (April & May 2022).
Tour Dates and features on Wille & The Bandits and When Rivers Meet can be found further down this News Page.
Official Troy Redfern website: www.troyredfern.com
Tour Dates and features on Wille & The Bandits and When Rivers Meet can be found further down this News Page.
Official Troy Redfern website: www.troyredfern.com
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Photo by Brian Arris
John Lodge, bassist, songwriter and co-vocalist of the legendary Moody Blues (and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer with The Moodies), will release a new live album entitled The Royal Affair and After in December.
The album encompasses the songs that John Lodge describes as being the soundtrack to his life and the continuation of his deeply-felt quest to "keep the Moody Blues music alive."
The album, primarily recorded in Las Vegas on the multi-band Royal Affair Tour, with additional tracks recorded on subsequent US dates, can be pre-ordered here:
https://www.johnlodge.com/the-royal-affair-and-after
During the summer of 2019 John Lodge was part of The Royal Affair Tour with YES, Carl Palmer, Arthur Brown and ASIA; it also doubled as a unique opportunity for Lodge to bring his show to both long established fans and to those new to the Moody Blues.
The Royal Affair and After comprises many of the Moodies hits penned by John Lodge, including classics such as 'Gemini Dream,' 'Isn’t Life Strange' and 'Steppin’ in a Slide Zone' plus the wonderful and celebratory 'Saved by the Music' from the 1975 Justin Hayward & John Lodge album, Blue Jays).
Also included is a tribute to John's dear friend, the late Ray Thomas ('Legend of a Mind'), a new recording of the poem 'Late Lament' by Moody Blues drummer Graeme Edge (specially re-recorded by Edge for John Lodge) and a tribute to Mike Pinder in the shape of Pinder’s 'Sunset' (the new version captures the mystical tone of Pinder’s original).
Jon Davison of YES also appears on the album; he joins the band on lead vocals for the iconic 'Nights in White Satin' and features on encore number 'Ride My See-Saw.'
"When we first put together the set list my thoughts were on how I could continue to keep the Moody Blues music alive’ for the fans. I wanted to bring them the experience that they have loved for so long, and try and give them that full band concert feel with harmonies and orchestration. But this was before Covid and touring being shut down for 18 months. Now, when I think about the album, it has an even deeper meaning for me.
I only hope the fans will enjoy the album and give them a moment to imagine themselves back in an audience at their favourite venue, surrounded by the music that is the soundtrack of my life, and it will help pass the time before we can all be back together on the road.
The fans truly are the heart of the Moody Blues. They have travelled a long time with us, and I hope will continue to do so." - John Lodge
The album encompasses the songs that John Lodge describes as being the soundtrack to his life and the continuation of his deeply-felt quest to "keep the Moody Blues music alive."
The album, primarily recorded in Las Vegas on the multi-band Royal Affair Tour, with additional tracks recorded on subsequent US dates, can be pre-ordered here:
https://www.johnlodge.com/the-royal-affair-and-after
During the summer of 2019 John Lodge was part of The Royal Affair Tour with YES, Carl Palmer, Arthur Brown and ASIA; it also doubled as a unique opportunity for Lodge to bring his show to both long established fans and to those new to the Moody Blues.
The Royal Affair and After comprises many of the Moodies hits penned by John Lodge, including classics such as 'Gemini Dream,' 'Isn’t Life Strange' and 'Steppin’ in a Slide Zone' plus the wonderful and celebratory 'Saved by the Music' from the 1975 Justin Hayward & John Lodge album, Blue Jays).
Also included is a tribute to John's dear friend, the late Ray Thomas ('Legend of a Mind'), a new recording of the poem 'Late Lament' by Moody Blues drummer Graeme Edge (specially re-recorded by Edge for John Lodge) and a tribute to Mike Pinder in the shape of Pinder’s 'Sunset' (the new version captures the mystical tone of Pinder’s original).
Jon Davison of YES also appears on the album; he joins the band on lead vocals for the iconic 'Nights in White Satin' and features on encore number 'Ride My See-Saw.'
"When we first put together the set list my thoughts were on how I could continue to keep the Moody Blues music alive’ for the fans. I wanted to bring them the experience that they have loved for so long, and try and give them that full band concert feel with harmonies and orchestration. But this was before Covid and touring being shut down for 18 months. Now, when I think about the album, it has an even deeper meaning for me.
I only hope the fans will enjoy the album and give them a moment to imagine themselves back in an audience at their favourite venue, surrounded by the music that is the soundtrack of my life, and it will help pass the time before we can all be back together on the road.
The fans truly are the heart of the Moody Blues. They have travelled a long time with us, and I hope will continue to do so." - John Lodge
With The Moody Blues no longer touring, John Lodge is passionate about "Keeping the Moody Blues Music Alive."
John and his 10,000 Light Years band (named from his 2015 solo album 10,000 Light Years Ago) provide a unique opportunity to continue to experience the magic of the Moody Blues.
Further touring is being planned for 2022 with a number of US dates already confirmed for March.
Check here for continually updated details: https://www.johnlodge.com/tour
The Royal Affair and After.
Released December 3rd (CD and Digital) and January 28th 2022 (limited edition Blue Vinyl).
Track listing (all formats):
Steppin’ in a Slide Zone; Saved by the Music; Legend of a Mind; Sunset; Late Lament (with Graeme Edge); Nights in White Satin (with Jon Davison); Gemini Dream; Isn’t Life Strange; I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band); Ride My See-Saw (with Jon Davison)
John Lodge & The 10,000 Light Years Band:
John Lodge (lead vocals, bass); Alan Hewitt (music director, Keyboards); Billy Ashbaugh (drums); Duffy King (guitars); Jason Charboneau (cello)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
John and his 10,000 Light Years band (named from his 2015 solo album 10,000 Light Years Ago) provide a unique opportunity to continue to experience the magic of the Moody Blues.
Further touring is being planned for 2022 with a number of US dates already confirmed for March.
Check here for continually updated details: https://www.johnlodge.com/tour
The Royal Affair and After.
Released December 3rd (CD and Digital) and January 28th 2022 (limited edition Blue Vinyl).
Track listing (all formats):
Steppin’ in a Slide Zone; Saved by the Music; Legend of a Mind; Sunset; Late Lament (with Graeme Edge); Nights in White Satin (with Jon Davison); Gemini Dream; Isn’t Life Strange; I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band); Ride My See-Saw (with Jon Davison)
John Lodge & The 10,000 Light Years Band:
John Lodge (lead vocals, bass); Alan Hewitt (music director, Keyboards); Billy Ashbaugh (drums); Duffy King (guitars); Jason Charboneau (cello)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The UK's critically acclaimed blues rock band King King start their seven date UK tour on Friday October 15th; the tour travels to Leeds, Liverpool, Exeter, Bexhill-on-Sea, Wolverhampton, Cambridge and Edinburgh.
Special guests on the October 2021 dates is When Rivers Meet, who recently won four awards at the UK Blues Awards (and Best New Band at Planet Rock's The Rocks Awards).
Following an appearance at The WinterStorm Rock Weekender in Troon, 25th-26th November, King King will then undertake a second leg of their UK tour from February 10th through to the 24th, 2022, with Canada’s psychedelic blues rock outfit The Damn Truth as Special Guests.
The Damn Truth's latest album, Now or Nowhere, has met with great critical acclaim.
Tickets for the October 2021 and February 2022 shows are available from:
www.kingking.co.uk www.thegigcartel.com www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
Special guests on the October 2021 dates is When Rivers Meet, who recently won four awards at the UK Blues Awards (and Best New Band at Planet Rock's The Rocks Awards).
Following an appearance at The WinterStorm Rock Weekender in Troon, 25th-26th November, King King will then undertake a second leg of their UK tour from February 10th through to the 24th, 2022, with Canada’s psychedelic blues rock outfit The Damn Truth as Special Guests.
The Damn Truth's latest album, Now or Nowhere, has met with great critical acclaim.
Tickets for the October 2021 and February 2022 shows are available from:
www.kingking.co.uk www.thegigcartel.com www.planetrocktickets.co.uk
On tour King King will be performing songs from their fifth and latest studio album Maverick for the very first time as well as KK classics from their back catalogue, including fan favourites from 2017 album Exile & Grace
Maverick is available from www.kingking.co.uk
King King are:
Alan Nimmo (vocals, guitar), Stevie Nimmo (guitar, back. vocals), Jonny Dyke (organ, piano, back. vocals), Zander Greenshields (bass, back. vocals) and Andrew Scott (drums).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maverick is available from www.kingking.co.uk
King King are:
Alan Nimmo (vocals, guitar), Stevie Nimmo (guitar, back. vocals), Jonny Dyke (organ, piano, back. vocals), Zander Greenshields (bass, back. vocals) and Andrew Scott (drums).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Following the release and subsequent success of Bernie Marsden’s outstanding blues covers album KINGS (#1 in the Amazon Blues Chart; #18 in the UK OCC Album Sales Chart; critically acclaimed in review) Conquest Music have announced the release of Marsden’s follow-up album, CHESS.
The 12-track CHESS, scheduled for a 26th November release, will be available on all digital platforms along with a Special Limited Edition Digipak CD accompanied by a 16-page booklet.
CHESS is the second album in Bernie Marsden’s Inspiration Series, where he chooses and crafts his own interpretation of the iconic artists and songs that helped inspire and shape his musical style and taste.
The Inspirations Series is more than a carefully curated homage to the music and artists that mean so much to Bernie Marsden however; you’ll hear Marsden’s own, nuanced guitar tones and vocals, along with the synergy created with top-tier musicians, putting a stamp on the songs while still remaining faithful to the classics they are (CHESS features 10 tracks originally released on Chess by greats such as Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, Howlin’ Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson, Muddy Waters & Elmore James).
As was the case with KINGS, two Bernie Marsden-penned instrumentals will also feature as bonus tracks.
A founder member and integral piece of the original Whitesnake (co-writing the band’s global smash, 'Here I Go Again') Bernie Marsden is also undeniably one of Britain’s premier blues guitarists, praised by B.B. King for both his musicianship and innate understanding of the soul and feel of the blues.
The 12-track CHESS, scheduled for a 26th November release, will be available on all digital platforms along with a Special Limited Edition Digipak CD accompanied by a 16-page booklet.
CHESS is the second album in Bernie Marsden’s Inspiration Series, where he chooses and crafts his own interpretation of the iconic artists and songs that helped inspire and shape his musical style and taste.
The Inspirations Series is more than a carefully curated homage to the music and artists that mean so much to Bernie Marsden however; you’ll hear Marsden’s own, nuanced guitar tones and vocals, along with the synergy created with top-tier musicians, putting a stamp on the songs while still remaining faithful to the classics they are (CHESS features 10 tracks originally released on Chess by greats such as Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, Howlin’ Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson, Muddy Waters & Elmore James).
As was the case with KINGS, two Bernie Marsden-penned instrumentals will also feature as bonus tracks.
A founder member and integral piece of the original Whitesnake (co-writing the band’s global smash, 'Here I Go Again') Bernie Marsden is also undeniably one of Britain’s premier blues guitarists, praised by B.B. King for both his musicianship and innate understanding of the soul and feel of the blues.
CHESS – Track Listing:
Just Your Fool; Back In The USA; Grits Ain’t Groceries; I’m Ready; You Can’t Judge a Book; I Can’t Hold Out; Won’t Be Hanging Around; Fattening Frogs For Snakes; That’s Alright; Who’s Been Talking; Lester; Johnny
Featuring: Bernie Marsden - guitars & vocals; John Gordon - bass; Jim Russell - drums; Bob Haddrell - keys; Alan Glen - harmonica.
The Inspirations Series is an ongoing sequence of albums by Bernie Marsden; sessions for the next Inspirations album, which will see release in 2022, have already begun.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just Your Fool; Back In The USA; Grits Ain’t Groceries; I’m Ready; You Can’t Judge a Book; I Can’t Hold Out; Won’t Be Hanging Around; Fattening Frogs For Snakes; That’s Alright; Who’s Been Talking; Lester; Johnny
Featuring: Bernie Marsden - guitars & vocals; John Gordon - bass; Jim Russell - drums; Bob Haddrell - keys; Alan Glen - harmonica.
The Inspirations Series is an ongoing sequence of albums by Bernie Marsden; sessions for the next Inspirations album, which will see release in 2022, have already begun.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter-guitarist JD Simo has released a second single, entitled 'That's When You Know That You're Down,' from forthcoming album Mind Control, which will be released 5th November on Crows Feet.
Pre-order the album: https://orcd.co/mindcontrol
Digital services for 'That' When You Know That You're Down': https://orcd.co/thatswhen
Of the new single and its message, JD Simo says "I wrote the song late one night after listening to a bunch of Captain Beefheart and it has definitely got a lot of his influence. The riff itself is a take on an old Magic Sam kind of thing. It’s a meld of those two worlds, I suppose, but I love how it turned out."
Pre-order the album: https://orcd.co/mindcontrol
Digital services for 'That' When You Know That You're Down': https://orcd.co/thatswhen
Of the new single and its message, JD Simo says "I wrote the song late one night after listening to a bunch of Captain Beefheart and it has definitely got a lot of his influence. The riff itself is a take on an old Magic Sam kind of thing. It’s a meld of those two worlds, I suppose, but I love how it turned out."
JD Simo, who has just embarked on a massive 60 date North American tour with the highly touted GA-20 (continuing through to January 2022) has garnered praise and bolstered his fan-base on both sides of the Atlantic since splitting his band SIMO in 2017 and going solo.
Issuing two studio albums and logging hundreds of live shows in that time, JD has also collaborated with the likes of Jack White, Tommy Emmanuel, Luther Dickinson, Dave Cobb and Blackberry Smoke (he has also spent time as part of Grateful Dead founder Phil Lesh’s Phil & Friends).
JD Simo’s well-received 2019 solo debut Off At 11 and self-titled 2020 follow-up connected the missing link between Woodstock and Motown; a fusion of fluid and fiery fretwork and vital yet vulnerable vocals.
With Mind Control the music boundary breaking musician delivers his most unique and rawest album yet, the genesis of which began in lockdown when he started cutting tracks in his makeshift studio at home, joined by long-time collaborator Adam Abrashoff (drums) and old friend Adam Bednarik (bass).
A near inexhaustible supply of shared influences has informed the sounds laid down by the trio, including the hill country trance blues of Junior Kimbrough, RL Burnside and Asie Payton, the hypnotic Afrobeat of Fela Kuti and Tony Allen, the warped psychedelia of Captain Beefheart and Funkadelic, the old school blues of John Lee Hooker, Earl Hooker and Lightnin' Hopkins and the rawer rock of The Stooges and Nirvana.
"It is a lot!" laughs JD Simo, "but the idea of the lockdown, and after fighting Covid, it just all came naturally from us. We literally did what we know to cope and that is what I am most proud of on this record.
I hope that what resonates for people is, of course, the music, but also the vibe of the record which is a positive theme of growth, self-help and struggles with addiction and mental health baked inside a haunting, low-down musical landscape. It's raw, funky and real."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issuing two studio albums and logging hundreds of live shows in that time, JD has also collaborated with the likes of Jack White, Tommy Emmanuel, Luther Dickinson, Dave Cobb and Blackberry Smoke (he has also spent time as part of Grateful Dead founder Phil Lesh’s Phil & Friends).
JD Simo’s well-received 2019 solo debut Off At 11 and self-titled 2020 follow-up connected the missing link between Woodstock and Motown; a fusion of fluid and fiery fretwork and vital yet vulnerable vocals.
With Mind Control the music boundary breaking musician delivers his most unique and rawest album yet, the genesis of which began in lockdown when he started cutting tracks in his makeshift studio at home, joined by long-time collaborator Adam Abrashoff (drums) and old friend Adam Bednarik (bass).
A near inexhaustible supply of shared influences has informed the sounds laid down by the trio, including the hill country trance blues of Junior Kimbrough, RL Burnside and Asie Payton, the hypnotic Afrobeat of Fela Kuti and Tony Allen, the warped psychedelia of Captain Beefheart and Funkadelic, the old school blues of John Lee Hooker, Earl Hooker and Lightnin' Hopkins and the rawer rock of The Stooges and Nirvana.
"It is a lot!" laughs JD Simo, "but the idea of the lockdown, and after fighting Covid, it just all came naturally from us. We literally did what we know to cope and that is what I am most proud of on this record.
I hope that what resonates for people is, of course, the music, but also the vibe of the record which is a positive theme of growth, self-help and struggles with addiction and mental health baked inside a haunting, low-down musical landscape. It's raw, funky and real."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Legendary artist and studio maestro Alan Parsons has announced a 5th November release date for a new live album entitled The NeverEnding Show : Live In The Netherlands.
It will be available as a 2CD+DVD, Blu-ray and 3LP (Black, Crystal or Blue Transparent (the latter is a Frontiers Webstore exclusive). Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/parsonslive
The NeverEnding Show : Live In The Netherlands was recorded at a performance in Utrecht by the Alan Parsons Live Project on 5th May 2019 at the Tivoli venue.
As a bonus, the album includes the brand new studio song 'The Never Ending Show,' with an accompanying video on the DVD and Blu-ray formats.
'The Never Ending Show' also offers a taste of the new studio album that Alan Parsons is currently working on for release in 2022.
It will be available as a 2CD+DVD, Blu-ray and 3LP (Black, Crystal or Blue Transparent (the latter is a Frontiers Webstore exclusive). Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/parsonslive
The NeverEnding Show : Live In The Netherlands was recorded at a performance in Utrecht by the Alan Parsons Live Project on 5th May 2019 at the Tivoli venue.
As a bonus, the album includes the brand new studio song 'The Never Ending Show,' with an accompanying video on the DVD and Blu-ray formats.
'The Never Ending Show' also offers a taste of the new studio album that Alan Parsons is currently working on for release in 2022.
Alan Parsons' current studio album, The Secret, was released on Frontiers Records a fortnight before the recording of the Live in the Netherlands show. The Secret can be streamed or purchased at: radi.al/AlanParsonsTheSecret
The Alan Parsons Live Project – The NeverEnding Show : Live In The Netherlands; CD Track listing:
CD1: One Note Symphony; Damned If I Do; Don't Answer Me; Time; Breakdown + The Raven (Medley); I Wouldn't Want To Be Like You; Psychobabble; Luciferama
CD2: Don't Let It Show; I Robot; Limelight; Standing On Higher Ground; As Lights Fall; I Can't Get There From Here; Prime Time; Sirius + Eye In The Sky (Medley); Old And Wise; (The System Of) Dr. Tarr And Professor Fether; Games People Play; The Never Ending Show (new studio track)
Alan Parsons - lead & backing vocals, acoustic guitar, keyboards
P.J. Olsson - lead vocals, acoustic guitar, percussion
Todd Cooper - vocals, sax, recorder, acoustic guitar, percussion
Jeff Kollman - guitars, vocals
Tom Brooks - keyboards, vocals
Dan Tracey - guitars, vocals
Guy Erez - bass, vocals
Danny Thompson - drums, vocals
Jordan Asher Huffman - guest vocals
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Alan Parsons Live Project – The NeverEnding Show : Live In The Netherlands; CD Track listing:
CD1: One Note Symphony; Damned If I Do; Don't Answer Me; Time; Breakdown + The Raven (Medley); I Wouldn't Want To Be Like You; Psychobabble; Luciferama
CD2: Don't Let It Show; I Robot; Limelight; Standing On Higher Ground; As Lights Fall; I Can't Get There From Here; Prime Time; Sirius + Eye In The Sky (Medley); Old And Wise; (The System Of) Dr. Tarr And Professor Fether; Games People Play; The Never Ending Show (new studio track)
Alan Parsons - lead & backing vocals, acoustic guitar, keyboards
P.J. Olsson - lead vocals, acoustic guitar, percussion
Todd Cooper - vocals, sax, recorder, acoustic guitar, percussion
Jeff Kollman - guitars, vocals
Tom Brooks - keyboards, vocals
Dan Tracey - guitars, vocals
Guy Erez - bass, vocals
Danny Thompson - drums, vocals
Jordan Asher Huffman - guest vocals
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The world’s favourite Rebel ‘n’ Rock yeller Billy Idol will head out on The Roadside Tour next year with some new music, a stack of classics and his long-time lead guitarist and collaborator Steve Stevens by his side.
The six arena dates in June of 2022 will be Billy Idol’s first live shows in the UK since 2018 - tickets go on sale at 9am on Thursday 30th September from www.aegpresents.co.uk/billy-idol
Supporting on the dates will be very special guests The Go-Go’s, making their first UK appearance for 26 years.
With restrictions lifted, Billy Idol is touring Stateside through the autumn of 2021 before returning to Britain next year; joining Idol and Steve Stevens are Stephen McGrath (bass, backing vocals), Billy Morrison (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Trudeau (keyboards, backing vocals) and drummer Erik Eldenius.
The global lockdown of 2020 gave Billy Idol time to reflect.
While writing the new music that would become his latest release, The Roadside EP, Idol’s thoughts turned to his near-fatal motorcycle accident of 1990, how he dealt with it and how it related to the current crisis.
"It seemed quite logical and natural to write something about my motorcycle accident" states Idol, continuing "I may have been saying, well, this is what people go through when they are in trouble. Certainly, the motorcycle accident was the catharsis, the wake-up moment. 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."
Such reflections are captured in the lyrics of 'Bitter Taste,' one of four tracks on the new EP The Roadside, Billy Idol’s first new music for seven years.
The six arena dates in June of 2022 will be Billy Idol’s first live shows in the UK since 2018 - tickets go on sale at 9am on Thursday 30th September from www.aegpresents.co.uk/billy-idol
Supporting on the dates will be very special guests The Go-Go’s, making their first UK appearance for 26 years.
With restrictions lifted, Billy Idol is touring Stateside through the autumn of 2021 before returning to Britain next year; joining Idol and Steve Stevens are Stephen McGrath (bass, backing vocals), Billy Morrison (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Trudeau (keyboards, backing vocals) and drummer Erik Eldenius.
The global lockdown of 2020 gave Billy Idol time to reflect.
While writing the new music that would become his latest release, The Roadside EP, Idol’s thoughts turned to his near-fatal motorcycle accident of 1990, how he dealt with it and how it related to the current crisis.
"It seemed quite logical and natural to write something about my motorcycle accident" states Idol, continuing "I may have been saying, well, this is what people go through when they are in trouble. Certainly, the motorcycle accident was the catharsis, the wake-up moment. 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."
Such reflections are captured in the lyrics of 'Bitter Taste,' one of four tracks on the new EP The Roadside, Billy Idol’s first new music for seven years.
For forty-five years, Billy Idol has been one of the faces and voices of rock ‘n’ roll, first as the front man for Generation X, before embarking in 1982 on a remarkable transatlantic/trans-genre solo career that integrated clubland throb, wide-screen drama, rockabilly punk and rock and 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.
Formed in California in 1978, The Go-Go’s became the first all-female band writing their own material and playing their own instruments to top the US Billboard album chart with multi-platinum debut, Beauty And The Beat.
The Go-Go’s recently released the single 'Club Zero,' their first new recording in nearly 20 years.
The band’s critically acclaimed documentary, The-Go-Go’s, captures them working on an early version of the song and is available as a 2-Disc set (DVD + Blu-ray) or download via Polygram/UMe.
With the successful run of their musical Head Over Heels on Broadway in 2018 and upcoming induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Charlotte Caffey, Belinda Carlisle, Gina Schock, Kathy Valentine and Jane Wiedlin continue to blaze trails for female fronted bands everywhere.
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.
Formed in California in 1978, The Go-Go’s became the first all-female band writing their own material and playing their own instruments to top the US Billboard album chart with multi-platinum debut, Beauty And The Beat.
The Go-Go’s recently released the single 'Club Zero,' their first new recording in nearly 20 years.
The band’s critically acclaimed documentary, The-Go-Go’s, captures them working on an early version of the song and is available as a 2-Disc set (DVD + Blu-ray) or download via Polygram/UMe.
With the successful run of their musical Head Over Heels on Broadway in 2018 and upcoming induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Charlotte Caffey, Belinda Carlisle, Gina Schock, Kathy Valentine and Jane Wiedlin continue to blaze trails for female fronted bands everywhere.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joe Bonamassa has released the widescreen epic title track of his forthcoming studio album Time Clocks as a single; the latest taster from his broad scoped & boundary pushing new album comes on the back of the confirmation of a return to the UK in 2022 for his first British shows in three years.
Time Clocks will be released on Friday October 29th via Provogue/Mascot Label Group in the UK and Europe, and by J&R Adventures throughout North America. The album will be available on CD, Vinyl and digital.
UK and European fans can pre-order the album here: www.mascotlabelgroup.com/collections/joe-bonamassa
Fans in North America can pre-order the album here: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/time-clocks
The title track, written by Joe Bonamassa & Kevin Shirley, is a seven-minute, poignant sweep across time and memories, with accompanying Official Music Video.
Time Clocks will be released on Friday October 29th via Provogue/Mascot Label Group in the UK and Europe, and by J&R Adventures throughout North America. The album will be available on CD, Vinyl and digital.
UK and European fans can pre-order the album here: www.mascotlabelgroup.com/collections/joe-bonamassa
Fans in North America can pre-order the album here: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/time-clocks
The title track, written by Joe Bonamassa & Kevin Shirley, is a seven-minute, poignant sweep across time and memories, with accompanying Official Music Video.
Album artwork by Hugh Syme
In support of the album, Joe Bonamassa and his celebrated band will perform five concerts in the UK in April and May of 2022, including two nights at the legendary Royal Albert Hall (see Tour Dates further below).
Tickets are on sale from www.jbonamassa.com/tour-dates and www.ticketmaster.co.uk
Time Clocks is a testament to the credentials of Joe Bonamassa and a toast to his long-time fans.
"What started out with the intentions of being a trio record turned into probably my most adventurous and involved record to date!" confirms Joe Bonamassa.
The renowned guitarist and his long-time producer Kevin Shirley brought in the legendary Bob Clearmountain to mix the tracks, with Clearmountain declaring that "this is one of the best albums I've mixed in years."
The album, recorded in New York City at Germano Studios/The Hit Factory, features Anton Fig (drums, percussion), Steve Mackey (bass), Lachy Doley (piano), Bunna Lawrie (didgeridoo) and Bobby Summerfield (perc), along with Mahalia Barnes, Juanita Tippins & Prinnie Stevens on backing vocals.
The artwork on the album was created by famous graphic artist Hugh Syme (Rush, Aerosmith, Whitesnake).
Time Clocks will also be Joe Bonamassa’s first album mixed to utilize spatial audio with Dolby Atmos and available for fans on Apple Music.
Having recently completed a short summer tour in the US, Joe Bonamassa will be back on tour for the autumn season with further shows across the country before heading out to sea for his Keeping The Blues Alive At Sea VII cruise, sailing from Miami to Ocho Rios in Jamaica through February 21st to 25th.
Tickets are on sale from www.jbonamassa.com/tour-dates and www.ticketmaster.co.uk
Time Clocks is a testament to the credentials of Joe Bonamassa and a toast to his long-time fans.
"What started out with the intentions of being a trio record turned into probably my most adventurous and involved record to date!" confirms Joe Bonamassa.
The renowned guitarist and his long-time producer Kevin Shirley brought in the legendary Bob Clearmountain to mix the tracks, with Clearmountain declaring that "this is one of the best albums I've mixed in years."
The album, recorded in New York City at Germano Studios/The Hit Factory, features Anton Fig (drums, percussion), Steve Mackey (bass), Lachy Doley (piano), Bunna Lawrie (didgeridoo) and Bobby Summerfield (perc), along with Mahalia Barnes, Juanita Tippins & Prinnie Stevens on backing vocals.
The artwork on the album was created by famous graphic artist Hugh Syme (Rush, Aerosmith, Whitesnake).
Time Clocks will also be Joe Bonamassa’s first album mixed to utilize spatial audio with Dolby Atmos and available for fans on Apple Music.
Having recently completed a short summer tour in the US, Joe Bonamassa will be back on tour for the autumn season with further shows across the country before heading out to sea for his Keeping The Blues Alive At Sea VII cruise, sailing from Miami to Ocho Rios in Jamaica through February 21st to 25th.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UK contemporary prog act Novena released their debut album Eleventh Hour in March of 2020.
However, like so many fellow musicians across the globe, their plans to promote it were curtailed by the pandemic and enforced lockdowns (ironically stopping a concept album about time and mortality in its tracks).
With the restrictions, the band started work on a series of 'Live From Home' performances, culminating in the Live From Home EP released in July of this year.
Now comes a brand new 3-track EP The Stopped Clock, which will be released on 1st October.
Pre-order here: https://orcd.co/stoppedclock
The EP features Novena’s striking cover of Billie Eilish’s 'Bury a Friend.'
However, like so many fellow musicians across the globe, their plans to promote it were curtailed by the pandemic and enforced lockdowns (ironically stopping a concept album about time and mortality in its tracks).
With the restrictions, the band started work on a series of 'Live From Home' performances, culminating in the Live From Home EP released in July of this year.
Now comes a brand new 3-track EP The Stopped Clock, which will be released on 1st October.
Pre-order here: https://orcd.co/stoppedclock
The EP features Novena’s striking cover of Billie Eilish’s 'Bury a Friend.'
Novena are:
Ross Jennings & Gareth Mason – vocals; Dan Thornton – guitars; Cameron Spence – drums; Moat Lowe – bass; Harrison White – guitars, keyboards.
Musically Novena move from the profound to the profane, the fragile to the unforgiving, and from the introspective to the utterly destructive, exploring different genres along the way.
The band initially established themselves on the UK and international prog scenes in 2016 with their widely praised Secondary Genesis EP.
Novena will host a much-delayed album release show for Eleventh Hour at the Boston Music Room in north London on 30th October.
Tickets and information: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/novena-album-re-launch-show-tickets-166203588407
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ross Jennings & Gareth Mason – vocals; Dan Thornton – guitars; Cameron Spence – drums; Moat Lowe – bass; Harrison White – guitars, keyboards.
Musically Novena move from the profound to the profane, the fragile to the unforgiving, and from the introspective to the utterly destructive, exploring different genres along the way.
The band initially established themselves on the UK and international prog scenes in 2016 with their widely praised Secondary Genesis EP.
Novena will host a much-delayed album release show for Eleventh Hour at the Boston Music Room in north London on 30th October.
Tickets and information: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/novena-album-re-launch-show-tickets-166203588407
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Desperately sorry and sad to hear of the recent passing of Steve Strange at only 53.
I never knew Steve (other than a backstage handshake, hello and good to see you at WinterStorm 2018 when Irish melodic rockers No Hot Ashes played the event with Steve on the drum stool) but I most certainly knew of his tireless, passionate and well-respected work as a music and booking agent these last 30 years, working with the likes of Eminem, Snow Patrol and Coldplay, to name but three of a truly worldly list (as well as championing Northern Irish music, it’s venues and its acts/ artists).
That he also received an Outstanding Contribution to Music award in 2019 is of no surprise (and thoroughly deserved) but perhaps more significant and telling is No Hot Ashes front man Eamon Nancarrow’s comment that there was "not a BS bone in his body;" a welcomed rarity in an industry where so many these days seem to feel that BS, false ingratiation or a reimagining of the facts is the promotional way forward.
Fair to say the boy from Carrickfergus done good.
Steve Strange (1968-2021)
I never knew Steve (other than a backstage handshake, hello and good to see you at WinterStorm 2018 when Irish melodic rockers No Hot Ashes played the event with Steve on the drum stool) but I most certainly knew of his tireless, passionate and well-respected work as a music and booking agent these last 30 years, working with the likes of Eminem, Snow Patrol and Coldplay, to name but three of a truly worldly list (as well as championing Northern Irish music, it’s venues and its acts/ artists).
That he also received an Outstanding Contribution to Music award in 2019 is of no surprise (and thoroughly deserved) but perhaps more significant and telling is No Hot Ashes front man Eamon Nancarrow’s comment that there was "not a BS bone in his body;" a welcomed rarity in an industry where so many these days seem to feel that BS, false ingratiation or a reimagining of the facts is the promotional way forward.
Fair to say the boy from Carrickfergus done good.
Steve Strange (1968-2021)
Image: Ash/ Twitter
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Singer, songwriter and guitarist Adam Norsworthy has brought together some of the finest & most respected musicians from the UK’s blues rock scene to back him on his forthcoming new solo album, Infinite Hotel.
For his fourth solo album, which will be released on March 4th, 2022, the versatile musician (front man & primary songwriter of The Mustangs; guitarist & songwriter in the highly regarded Milk Men; critically acclaimed singer-songwriter solo artist) is backed by a high-quality 'supergroup' band of Oli Brown (bass, guitar), Bennett Holland (keys), Rich Young (piano, synth) and Wayne Proctor (drums, production, mixing).
Infinite Hotel, a big sounding record that blends rock, blues, pop & folk, is preceded by the first single to be lifted from the album, the epic sounding blues ballad 'In Time I Will Forget You.'
For his fourth solo album, which will be released on March 4th, 2022, the versatile musician (front man & primary songwriter of The Mustangs; guitarist & songwriter in the highly regarded Milk Men; critically acclaimed singer-songwriter solo artist) is backed by a high-quality 'supergroup' band of Oli Brown (bass, guitar), Bennett Holland (keys), Rich Young (piano, synth) and Wayne Proctor (drums, production, mixing).
Infinite Hotel, a big sounding record that blends rock, blues, pop & folk, is preceded by the first single to be lifted from the album, the epic sounding blues ballad 'In Time I Will Forget You.'
Of the new single Adam Norsworthy says "I felt the song was almost like a bluesy James Bond theme tune, so I wanted one of those Bond dancing-girl silhouettes in the video.
The rest of the visuals are true to the lyrics... how the passing of deep time will one day distinguish everything that has ever grown or been built, everything that has ever been created, felt or thought.
Some people may feel that this is a depressing thought, I know others find it oddly comforting. I'm undecided myself, so I just make as much music as I can before the decay begins!"
The songs on Infinite Hotel explore themes of love, loss, mortality, the environment, and the human need to explore the cosmos and find not only meaning to life, but a new home – perhaps even a series of ‘hotel’ planets to be inhabited, one after the other, until the universe itself dies.
"There are such big themes on this album that it needed
a big sound, and we have got that," continues Adam,
"but it still boils down to the essential essence of a voice, a story and a guitar; critically, the intimacy is still there amidst the huge soundscapes of the songs."
The Mustangs, featuring Adam Norsworthy, are four-time British Blues Award nominees and one of the most-established and respected blues rock bands in the UK.
The Milk Men recently had national chart success when their latest album Deliverance broke into the Top 40 albums on The Amazon Chart.
Adam Norsworthy’s solo work, showcasing a more reflective side of the multi-faceted artist, has seen huge critical acclaim.
His 2016 album Rainbird was named singer-songwriter album of the year by various music websites including FabricationsHQ.
'In Time I Will Forget You' is available now to download or stream on all digital platforms.
More information about the artist at: www.adamnorsworthy.co.uk
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The rest of the visuals are true to the lyrics... how the passing of deep time will one day distinguish everything that has ever grown or been built, everything that has ever been created, felt or thought.
Some people may feel that this is a depressing thought, I know others find it oddly comforting. I'm undecided myself, so I just make as much music as I can before the decay begins!"
The songs on Infinite Hotel explore themes of love, loss, mortality, the environment, and the human need to explore the cosmos and find not only meaning to life, but a new home – perhaps even a series of ‘hotel’ planets to be inhabited, one after the other, until the universe itself dies.
"There are such big themes on this album that it needed
a big sound, and we have got that," continues Adam,
"but it still boils down to the essential essence of a voice, a story and a guitar; critically, the intimacy is still there amidst the huge soundscapes of the songs."
The Mustangs, featuring Adam Norsworthy, are four-time British Blues Award nominees and one of the most-established and respected blues rock bands in the UK.
The Milk Men recently had national chart success when their latest album Deliverance broke into the Top 40 albums on The Amazon Chart.
Adam Norsworthy’s solo work, showcasing a more reflective side of the multi-faceted artist, has seen huge critical acclaim.
His 2016 album Rainbird was named singer-songwriter album of the year by various music websites including FabricationsHQ.
'In Time I Will Forget You' is available now to download or stream on all digital platforms.
More information about the artist at: www.adamnorsworthy.co.uk
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Multi-disciplined musician, composer and producer/ director David Minasian has just released a Double
A sided single coupling the tracks 'Room With Dark Corners' & S'ummer's End.'
Following the 2020 release of his progressive art-rock album
The Sound of Dreams (featuring a who’s who of progressive rock royalty) David Minasian will release Random Dreams: The Very Best of David Minasian Vol. 1 later this year on Golden Robot Records.
A taster of the forthcoming Very Best Of first came via the remixed double-A sided single 'The Sound of Dreams' & 'Masquerade' and, now the 2021 remixes of 'Room With Dark Corners' & 'Summer’s End' (available on all digital platforms).
David Minasian enlisted the talents of Moody Blues vocalist Julie Ragins and Pentagram drummer Geof O’Keefe to help with the recording of 'Room With Dark Corners,' which originally featured on The Sound of Dreams.
One of the most compelling tracks from David Minasian’s 2010 symphonic rock masterpiece, Random Acts of Beauty, is 'Summer’s End,' featuring the emotive guitar work of David’s son Justin who delivered one of the album’s most powerful performances.
A sided single coupling the tracks 'Room With Dark Corners' & S'ummer's End.'
Following the 2020 release of his progressive art-rock album
The Sound of Dreams (featuring a who’s who of progressive rock royalty) David Minasian will release Random Dreams: The Very Best of David Minasian Vol. 1 later this year on Golden Robot Records.
A taster of the forthcoming Very Best Of first came via the remixed double-A sided single 'The Sound of Dreams' & 'Masquerade' and, now the 2021 remixes of 'Room With Dark Corners' & 'Summer’s End' (available on all digital platforms).
David Minasian enlisted the talents of Moody Blues vocalist Julie Ragins and Pentagram drummer Geof O’Keefe to help with the recording of 'Room With Dark Corners,' which originally featured on The Sound of Dreams.
One of the most compelling tracks from David Minasian’s 2010 symphonic rock masterpiece, Random Acts of Beauty, is 'Summer’s End,' featuring the emotive guitar work of David’s son Justin who delivered one of the album’s most powerful performances.
David Minasian is a keyboardist, vocalist, composer and producer who began classical piano training at the age of five. His critically acclaimed 2010 album Random Acts of Beauty became one of the biggest progressive rock releases of the year and featured a rare guest appearance by legendary guitarist Andrew Latimer of the English progressive rock band Camel.
As a motion picture producer, director and writer David Minasian has over 150 credits to his name.
He has worked alongside the likes of Mel Gibson and Martin Landau, as well as many musical icons including Elton John, The Moody Blues, Alan Parsons, Kris Kristofferson and Three Dog Night.
Listen / purchase Room With Dark Corners / Summer's End here.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a motion picture producer, director and writer David Minasian has over 150 credits to his name.
He has worked alongside the likes of Mel Gibson and Martin Landau, as well as many musical icons including Elton John, The Moody Blues, Alan Parsons, Kris Kristofferson and Three Dog Night.
Listen / purchase Room With Dark Corners / Summer's End here.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Semi-legendary garden machinery obsessed thrash (or perhaps thresh?) merchants Lawnmower Deth are heading back to the studio shed for their first album in nearly thirty years.
Off the back of their Bloodstock 2021 headline appearance (described as "a perfect ninety minutes of utter stupidity" by one reviewer) Lawnmower Deth return to the music fold with their first album since 1993’s Billy.
The forthcoming Blunt Cutters is guaranteed to tears through the weeds and reignite the oddball and irreverently thrash-punk sound of the band as made (in)famous with by the likes of Ooh Crikey, It’s…Lawnmower Deth (1990) and Return of the Fabulous Metal Bozo Clowns (1992).
Formed in Nottingham in 1987, the band split in 1994 after three albums.
Reuniting after being asked to support Bullet for My Valentine at Alexandra Palace in 2008, that supposed one-off gig became a permanent fixture – the band have since graced Download six times, Bloodstock three and sightings at Hammerfest, Wildfire, Damnation and more.
Lawnmower Deth are also known for their Christmas single 'F U Kristmas' and enduring cover of the Kim Wilde classic 'Kids In America,' which they performed together, with two other quick-fire songs, at Download 2016: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rSK_MnDOXs
(Whether Kim appears on Blunt Cutters, you’ll have to wait and see/ hear).
As regards the Chris Clancy (Massive Wagons, Those Damn Crows) produced album, tracks such as 'Into The Pit,' 'I Don’t Want To' and 'Deth! Maim! Kill!' are about as thrash as you can get without wanting to sue for whiplash, while songs like 'Swarfega,' 'Space Herpes' and 'Good Morning Phil' are genuinely funny (proof the band have lost none of their sense of humour).
Blunt Cutters. May tour chosen God have mercy on your souls. Oh, and fetch the compost.
Lawnmower Death – Blunt Cutters (Cherry Red Records/ Dissonance Productions).
Released on CD & Digital/ Streaming January 28th 2022
Limited Edition Transparent Green Vinyl available June 24th 2022
Track listing:
Into the Pit; I Don’t Want To; Botheration; Swarfega; Bastard Squad; Now He’s a Priest; Good Morning, Phil; Bobblehead; Raise Your Snails; Deth! Maim! Kill!; Christ Options; Hell’s Teeth; Blunt Cutters; Space Herpes; Nothing But Noise; Goodnight, Bob; Power Bagging; Agency of C.O.B.
Lawnmower Deth play the Garage in London on Saturday 18th December; more live dates are expected to be announced soon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Off the back of their Bloodstock 2021 headline appearance (described as "a perfect ninety minutes of utter stupidity" by one reviewer) Lawnmower Deth return to the music fold with their first album since 1993’s Billy.
The forthcoming Blunt Cutters is guaranteed to tears through the weeds and reignite the oddball and irreverently thrash-punk sound of the band as made (in)famous with by the likes of Ooh Crikey, It’s…Lawnmower Deth (1990) and Return of the Fabulous Metal Bozo Clowns (1992).
Formed in Nottingham in 1987, the band split in 1994 after three albums.
Reuniting after being asked to support Bullet for My Valentine at Alexandra Palace in 2008, that supposed one-off gig became a permanent fixture – the band have since graced Download six times, Bloodstock three and sightings at Hammerfest, Wildfire, Damnation and more.
Lawnmower Deth are also known for their Christmas single 'F U Kristmas' and enduring cover of the Kim Wilde classic 'Kids In America,' which they performed together, with two other quick-fire songs, at Download 2016: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rSK_MnDOXs
(Whether Kim appears on Blunt Cutters, you’ll have to wait and see/ hear).
As regards the Chris Clancy (Massive Wagons, Those Damn Crows) produced album, tracks such as 'Into The Pit,' 'I Don’t Want To' and 'Deth! Maim! Kill!' are about as thrash as you can get without wanting to sue for whiplash, while songs like 'Swarfega,' 'Space Herpes' and 'Good Morning Phil' are genuinely funny (proof the band have lost none of their sense of humour).
Blunt Cutters. May tour chosen God have mercy on your souls. Oh, and fetch the compost.
Lawnmower Death – Blunt Cutters (Cherry Red Records/ Dissonance Productions).
Released on CD & Digital/ Streaming January 28th 2022
Limited Edition Transparent Green Vinyl available June 24th 2022
Track listing:
Into the Pit; I Don’t Want To; Botheration; Swarfega; Bastard Squad; Now He’s a Priest; Good Morning, Phil; Bobblehead; Raise Your Snails; Deth! Maim! Kill!; Christ Options; Hell’s Teeth; Blunt Cutters; Space Herpes; Nothing But Noise; Goodnight, Bob; Power Bagging; Agency of C.O.B.
Lawnmower Deth play the Garage in London on Saturday 18th December; more live dates are expected to be announced soon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Montreal-based retro-styled rock quartet The Damn Truth have released 'Tomorrow' as a single with accompanying and seriously cool music video.
'Tomorrow' is lifted from the band’s outstanding third album Now Or Nowhere, which garnered Feature Album Review (album of the month choice) on FabricationsHQ earlier in the year:
http://www.fabricationshq.com/the-damn-truth---now-or-nowhere.html
The anthemic song, complete with big earworm chorus, is accompanied by cleverly woven "time-spanning" video (a visual performance journey through the 60s, 70s & 90s; each era being a major influences on the band) directed by Ariel Levesque and Ben Gelfand at I/O Studio in Montreal.
'Tomorrow' is lifted from the band’s outstanding third album Now Or Nowhere, which garnered Feature Album Review (album of the month choice) on FabricationsHQ earlier in the year:
http://www.fabricationshq.com/the-damn-truth---now-or-nowhere.html
The anthemic song, complete with big earworm chorus, is accompanied by cleverly woven "time-spanning" video (a visual performance journey through the 60s, 70s & 90s; each era being a major influences on the band) directed by Ariel Levesque and Ben Gelfand at I/O Studio in Montreal.
The 'Tomorrow' video was as real for the band as a time travelling visual could produce – "we time travelled to some of our favourite musical eras and what a trip it was!" commented singer & guitarist Lee-La Baum, while the guys in the band actually did shave off their facial hair for the '60s' scenes, once all other sequences were shot.
"With a reputation like ours; cleaning up was a challenge" confirms drummer Dave Traina – "my upper lip hadn't seen the light of day in over a decade!"
The Damn Truth will embark on a 13-date UK tour in February 2022 as Special Guests to King King.
In addition, the band will headline their own shows at Leek Foxlowe Arts (Feb 13), Leeds Lending Room (Feb 15), Bristol Exchange (Feb 16), and Southampton 1865 (Feb 25).
Tickets are available from www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/The-Damn-Truth.htm
“We’re looking forward to touring the UK,” says lead singer and guitarist, Lee-la Baum. “Last time we played the UK was a one-night banger in London that left us wanting for more. We cannot wait to come back and hit the road in the UK!”
The Damn Truth - Special Guests to King King, February 2022
(* The Damn Truth Headline date)
York, Grand Opera House - Thursday 10th February
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Friday 11th February
Glasgow, O2 Academy - Saturday 12th February
* Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Sunday 13th February
* Leeds, Lending Room - Tuesday 15th February
* Bristol, Exchange - Wednesday 16th February
Manchester, Academy - Thursday 17th February
Sheffield, Leadmill - Saturday 19th February
Cardiff, Y Plas - Sunday 20th February
Birmingham, Town Hall - Tuesday 22nd February
Bury St Edmunds, The Apex Arts Centre - Wednesday 23rd February
London, Electric Ballroom - Thursday 24th February
* Southampton, The 1865 - Friday 25th February
https://linktr.ee/thedamntruth www.thedamntruth.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"With a reputation like ours; cleaning up was a challenge" confirms drummer Dave Traina – "my upper lip hadn't seen the light of day in over a decade!"
The Damn Truth will embark on a 13-date UK tour in February 2022 as Special Guests to King King.
In addition, the band will headline their own shows at Leek Foxlowe Arts (Feb 13), Leeds Lending Room (Feb 15), Bristol Exchange (Feb 16), and Southampton 1865 (Feb 25).
Tickets are available from www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/The-Damn-Truth.htm
“We’re looking forward to touring the UK,” says lead singer and guitarist, Lee-la Baum. “Last time we played the UK was a one-night banger in London that left us wanting for more. We cannot wait to come back and hit the road in the UK!”
The Damn Truth - Special Guests to King King, February 2022
(* The Damn Truth Headline date)
York, Grand Opera House - Thursday 10th February
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Friday 11th February
Glasgow, O2 Academy - Saturday 12th February
* Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Sunday 13th February
* Leeds, Lending Room - Tuesday 15th February
* Bristol, Exchange - Wednesday 16th February
Manchester, Academy - Thursday 17th February
Sheffield, Leadmill - Saturday 19th February
Cardiff, Y Plas - Sunday 20th February
Birmingham, Town Hall - Tuesday 22nd February
Bury St Edmunds, The Apex Arts Centre - Wednesday 23rd February
London, Electric Ballroom - Thursday 24th February
* Southampton, The 1865 - Friday 25th February
https://linktr.ee/thedamntruth www.thedamntruth.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rootsy, genre bending singer-guitarist Samantha Fish will embark on a nine concert tour of the UK through January 30th to February 8th, 2022.
The tour will include a show at London’s iconic venue Shepherd’s Bush Empire.
Special guest at all shows are Wille & The Bandits.
Tickets are available from www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.samanthafish.com/tour and, for the Wolverhampton show, www.kkssteelmill.co.uk
"It was strange (and ambitious) announcing a tour because we were all locked down fighting this virus.
We’re still fighting! We’ve had to amend some dates along with a couple of new shows for our January and February 2022 UK tour, in some amazing venues. I can’t wait to get out there and play for you all"
- Samantha Fish
The tour is in support of Samantha Fish’s latest album Faster, which was released by Rounder Records on September 10th.
The album includes the singles 'Twisted Ambition,' 'Better Be Lonely' and latest offering, the driving by and checking out heavy-pop blues of 'Faster.'
The tour will include a show at London’s iconic venue Shepherd’s Bush Empire.
Special guest at all shows are Wille & The Bandits.
Tickets are available from www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets, www.samanthafish.com/tour and, for the Wolverhampton show, www.kkssteelmill.co.uk
"It was strange (and ambitious) announcing a tour because we were all locked down fighting this virus.
We’re still fighting! We’ve had to amend some dates along with a couple of new shows for our January and February 2022 UK tour, in some amazing venues. I can’t wait to get out there and play for you all"
- Samantha Fish
The tour is in support of Samantha Fish’s latest album Faster, which was released by Rounder Records on September 10th.
The album includes the singles 'Twisted Ambition,' 'Better Be Lonely' and latest offering, the driving by and checking out heavy-pop blues of 'Faster.'
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."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fact that US rock outfit Enuff Z’Nuff are rather fond of The Beatles has been well documented over the years.
Now, led by co-founder Chip Z'Nuff, the band have finally decided to go all in on their fandom with the release of Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite, a covers album featuring interpretations of seven of their favourite Fab Four songs and three post-Beatles tracks.
One of the latter, the band's version of ‘Cold Turkey,’ by the Plastic Ono Band, has been released as both a single and taster of what to expect when the album is released on 12th November.
Now, led by co-founder Chip Z'Nuff, the band have finally decided to go all in on their fandom with the release of Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite, a covers album featuring interpretations of seven of their favourite Fab Four songs and three post-Beatles tracks.
One of the latter, the band's version of ‘Cold Turkey,’ by the Plastic Ono Band, has been released as both a single and taster of what to expect when the album is released on 12th November.
In the late 80s Enuff Z’Nuff were acclaimed power-pop princes in glam-metal clothing; described as the Beatles and Cheap Trick combined and reinvented for the US hard rock landscape at that time.
Now centred around vocalist and bassist Chip Z’Nuff, the band continue to deliver their patented power-pop melded with hard rock stylings.
Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite - Track Listing:
Magical Mystery Tour; Cold Turkey; Eleanor Rigby; Live And Let Die; Dear Prudence; Helter Skelter; Jet; Revolution; Back In The U.S.S.R.; With A Little Help From My Friends
Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/hardrock
Enuff Z’Nuff
Chip Z’Nuff – vocals, bass, guitar
Tony Fennell – rhythm & lead guitars, vocals, key, strings
Tory Stoffregen - lead & slide guitars
Daniel Benjamin Hill – drums & percussion
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Now centred around vocalist and bassist Chip Z’Nuff, the band continue to deliver their patented power-pop melded with hard rock stylings.
Enuff Z’Nuff’s Hardrock Nite - Track Listing:
Magical Mystery Tour; Cold Turkey; Eleanor Rigby; Live And Let Die; Dear Prudence; Helter Skelter; Jet; Revolution; Back In The U.S.S.R.; With A Little Help From My Friends
Pre-order link: https://orcd.co/hardrock
Enuff Z’Nuff
Chip Z’Nuff – vocals, bass, guitar
Tony Fennell – rhythm & lead guitars, vocals, key, strings
Tory Stoffregen - lead & slide guitars
Daniel Benjamin Hill – drums & percussion
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
British prog-blues rock trio The Mentulls will release their third studio album Recipe For Change on 22nd October on ProgBlues Music.
The first single, the hooky pop and classy rock-craft of 'Easy To Walk Away,' is out now.
The first single, the hooky pop and classy rock-craft of 'Easy To Walk Away,' is out now.
Recipe For Change follows 2015’s critically acclaimed and multi-faceted Reflections, a well-crafted blend of progressively arranged, 70s influenced blues rock, classic rock, melodic rock and impressive instrumentalism.
The new album is also the first to feature vocalist and multi-instrumentalist David Neil Crabtree, who joins founder members and brothers Andrew and Jamie Pipe (guitars and keyboards, respectively).
Crabtree, who’s own work as a singer/songwriter is highly acclaimed, is a fine fit alongside the Pipe brothers (Andrew Pipe was one of the youngest ever British Blues Awards nominees, two years running; Jamie Pipe continues to work with a multitude of top artists outside of The Mentulls).
Recipe For Change offers up more of The Mentulls trademark progressive-yet-hooky, accessible songcraft, much as artists like Genesis, Toto, Peter Gabriel, Journey and Rush all did in the late 70s and early 80s.
However this is no Reflections sequel, as the Recipe For Change title suggests – this is also the next chapter for The Mentulls and a subtle shift in style.
Written over the course of four years (and including three songs co-written with respected songwriter John P Taylor) and recorded during the various lockdown/s, Recipe For Change features a group of songs based around the story of a person who yearns for the countryside and a simpler way of living, after becoming weary of everyday city life and all its pressures.
Recipe For Change was produced by Wayne Proctor (who also plays drums on the album) and Andrew Pipe; it also features Raven Eye’s Oli Brown on backing vocals.
“Recipe For "Change has taken many hours of work and dedication from everyone involved and we are all incredibly proud of this record. It’s a dream album for us, in many ways.
This is definitely an album for anyone who loves melodic rock music, with intricate, progressive instrumental sections, big choruses and heartfelt lyrics."
- The Mentulls
Pre order the album (CD and Vinyl) and check out the various bundle offers here:
https://themerchdesk.com/shop/index.php?route=product/manufacturer/info&manufacturer_id=108
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The new album is also the first to feature vocalist and multi-instrumentalist David Neil Crabtree, who joins founder members and brothers Andrew and Jamie Pipe (guitars and keyboards, respectively).
Crabtree, who’s own work as a singer/songwriter is highly acclaimed, is a fine fit alongside the Pipe brothers (Andrew Pipe was one of the youngest ever British Blues Awards nominees, two years running; Jamie Pipe continues to work with a multitude of top artists outside of The Mentulls).
Recipe For Change offers up more of The Mentulls trademark progressive-yet-hooky, accessible songcraft, much as artists like Genesis, Toto, Peter Gabriel, Journey and Rush all did in the late 70s and early 80s.
However this is no Reflections sequel, as the Recipe For Change title suggests – this is also the next chapter for The Mentulls and a subtle shift in style.
Written over the course of four years (and including three songs co-written with respected songwriter John P Taylor) and recorded during the various lockdown/s, Recipe For Change features a group of songs based around the story of a person who yearns for the countryside and a simpler way of living, after becoming weary of everyday city life and all its pressures.
Recipe For Change was produced by Wayne Proctor (who also plays drums on the album) and Andrew Pipe; it also features Raven Eye’s Oli Brown on backing vocals.
“Recipe For "Change has taken many hours of work and dedication from everyone involved and we are all incredibly proud of this record. It’s a dream album for us, in many ways.
This is definitely an album for anyone who loves melodic rock music, with intricate, progressive instrumental sections, big choruses and heartfelt lyrics."
- The Mentulls
Pre order the album (CD and Vinyl) and check out the various bundle offers here:
https://themerchdesk.com/shop/index.php?route=product/manufacturer/info&manufacturer_id=108
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As debut shows go, none-too-shabby…
"They might be described as 'alt-rockers from Bournemouth' but from the outset of strong debut album 'Don’t Turn Out The Lights,' and that very track, it’s clear the ball-park of Skinny Knowledge (given studio birth by songwriter & drummer turned front man Andy L Smooth) is big, anthemic crowd-pleaser numbers."
– FabricationsHQ
"They might be described as 'alt-rockers from Bournemouth' but from the outset of strong debut album 'Don’t Turn Out The Lights,' and that very track, it’s clear the ball-park of Skinny Knowledge (given studio birth by songwriter & drummer turned front man Andy L Smooth) is big, anthemic crowd-pleaser numbers."
– FabricationsHQ
Purchase the debut album from Skinny Knowledge, Don't Turn Out the Lights, here:
https://skinnyknowledge.co.uk/product/dont-turn-out-the-lights-cd/
https://skinnyknowledge.co.uk/product/dont-turn-out-the-lights-cd/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London based guitarist-singer-songwriter Jack J Hutchinson will embark upon his largest UK tour to date through October & November.
The tour dates will be an opportunity for fans and gig goers to hear new songs from the forthcoming studio album from Jack J Hutchinson, which will be released next year.
"It’s been a long time coming!" enthuses Hutchinson.
"The response we’ve had playing festivals this year since things started opening up again has been unreal - people singing the words back to new songs halfway through, crazy!
We can’t wait to bring everyone a hard rocking show and have a good time - that's what it’s all about for me; pulling the guitar on, adjusting the hat and getting up on stage playing for people."
Punctuating this tour will be the pre-order/pre-save for new album The Hammer Falls, due for release early in 2022 and distributed by EyeSore Merch.
The heavily guitar driven album was recorded at Momentum Studios, Devon, mixed by Josiah J Manning (Inglorious, Kris Barras Band, Moriaty, Wille and The Bandits) and mastered by the Grammy award winning Stardelta (Noel Gallagher).
Jack J Hutchinson has now released the first single from the album, 'Call Of the Wild.'
The track is available on strictly limited edition split red and black 7" vinyl and digital, exclusively through Eyesore Merch, who recently released exclusives by Blackberry Smoke, Mason Hill and Wayward Sons.
The tour dates will be an opportunity for fans and gig goers to hear new songs from the forthcoming studio album from Jack J Hutchinson, which will be released next year.
"It’s been a long time coming!" enthuses Hutchinson.
"The response we’ve had playing festivals this year since things started opening up again has been unreal - people singing the words back to new songs halfway through, crazy!
We can’t wait to bring everyone a hard rocking show and have a good time - that's what it’s all about for me; pulling the guitar on, adjusting the hat and getting up on stage playing for people."
Punctuating this tour will be the pre-order/pre-save for new album The Hammer Falls, due for release early in 2022 and distributed by EyeSore Merch.
The heavily guitar driven album was recorded at Momentum Studios, Devon, mixed by Josiah J Manning (Inglorious, Kris Barras Band, Moriaty, Wille and The Bandits) and mastered by the Grammy award winning Stardelta (Noel Gallagher).
Jack J Hutchinson has now released the first single from the album, 'Call Of the Wild.'
The track is available on strictly limited edition split red and black 7" vinyl and digital, exclusively through Eyesore Merch, who recently released exclusives by Blackberry Smoke, Mason Hill and Wayward Sons.
Jack J Hutchinson October/ November UK Tour dates.
21st October – The Brickmakers, Norwich*
22nd October – The Patriot, Crumlin*
23rd October – The Tivoli, Buckley***
24th October – Bannermans, Edinburgh*
27th October – Nightrain, Bradford*
28th October – The Asylum 2, Birmingham*
29th October – Trillians, Newcastle
5th November – Chelmsford City Football Club
6th November – Leo’s Red Lion, Gravesend**
7th November – Esquires, Bedford*
17th November – The Black Heart, London*
20th November – St Austell Band Club, St Austell
27th November – Mad Hatters, Inverness
* Firekind special guests
** Loz Campbell & Verity White special guests
*** Verity White special guest
Tickets: https://jackjhutchinsonmusic.com/2021/01/15/uk-tour-2021/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21st October – The Brickmakers, Norwich*
22nd October – The Patriot, Crumlin*
23rd October – The Tivoli, Buckley***
24th October – Bannermans, Edinburgh*
27th October – Nightrain, Bradford*
28th October – The Asylum 2, Birmingham*
29th October – Trillians, Newcastle
5th November – Chelmsford City Football Club
6th November – Leo’s Red Lion, Gravesend**
7th November – Esquires, Bedford*
17th November – The Black Heart, London*
20th November – St Austell Band Club, St Austell
27th November – Mad Hatters, Inverness
* Firekind special guests
** Loz Campbell & Verity White special guests
*** Verity White special guest
Tickets: https://jackjhutchinsonmusic.com/2021/01/15/uk-tour-2021/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wille & The Bandits are the latest band to announce a rescheduling of a UK tour in light of the pandemic.
All previously scheduled dates will now take place in March and April of 2022; Special Guest on all dates will be Troy Redfern. Tickets are available via: www.willeandthebandits.com
The tour will showcase songs from the band's forthcoming studio album When The World Stood Still (the tour will follow the release of the highly anticipated album).
The album was recorded at Sawmills recording studios with producer John Cornfield; a coupling that has produced some of the most ground-breaking albums of the last thirty years including Fools Gold (Stone Roses), Definitely Maybe (Oasis), In it For the Money (Supergrass) and Showbiz (Muse).
The album documents a moment in time that the whole world will never forget, a time where each person on the planet has felt repercussions in one way or another. Each of Wille’s songs tell their own stories, but there is also a cohesion between the tracks that tells a bigger story of "When the World Stood Still."
All previously scheduled dates will now take place in March and April of 2022; Special Guest on all dates will be Troy Redfern. Tickets are available via: www.willeandthebandits.com
The tour will showcase songs from the band's forthcoming studio album When The World Stood Still (the tour will follow the release of the highly anticipated album).
The album was recorded at Sawmills recording studios with producer John Cornfield; a coupling that has produced some of the most ground-breaking albums of the last thirty years including Fools Gold (Stone Roses), Definitely Maybe (Oasis), In it For the Money (Supergrass) and Showbiz (Muse).
The album documents a moment in time that the whole world will never forget, a time where each person on the planet has felt repercussions in one way or another. Each of Wille’s songs tell their own stories, but there is also a cohesion between the tracks that tells a bigger story of "When the World Stood Still."
Wille & the Bandits, a band that cannot truly be pigeonholed (venturing from blues-soul, rock and funkier grooves to Zeppelin-esque riffs and Floyd-scapes), are lauded for their live performances and impressive musicianship.
In addition to the lead guitar, lap steel guitar and lead vocals of Wille Edwards, the sound of the band is bolstred by a dynamic and brand-new rhythm section composed of Tom Gilkes (drums, percussion) and Harry Mackaill (bass, keyboards). The band now also features multi-instrumentalist Matthew Gallagher (Hammond organ, guitar, percussion) making for a bigger sounding four-piece.
"I’m very excited by the new line-up," says Wille Edwards. "Our music was starting to have layers within it that were beginning to be impossible to do justice to as a trio. With a band of multi-instrumentalists and a drummer who is technically outstanding, yet plays to what the song needs, we are able to achieve live what I thought might only be possible in the studio."
In addition to the lead guitar, lap steel guitar and lead vocals of Wille Edwards, the sound of the band is bolstred by a dynamic and brand-new rhythm section composed of Tom Gilkes (drums, percussion) and Harry Mackaill (bass, keyboards). The band now also features multi-instrumentalist Matthew Gallagher (Hammond organ, guitar, percussion) making for a bigger sounding four-piece.
"I’m very excited by the new line-up," says Wille Edwards. "Our music was starting to have layers within it that were beginning to be impossible to do justice to as a trio. With a band of multi-instrumentalists and a drummer who is technically outstanding, yet plays to what the song needs, we are able to achieve live what I thought might only be possible in the studio."
Wille & the Bandits have toured with the likes of Deep Purple, Status Quo, Joe Bonamassa and Warren Haynes. In 2014 they were voted in the Top Ten Bands to see at Glastonbury Festival (they have also payed at the Isle of Wight festival, Rambln' Man Fair, Steelhouse and the London Olympics; they were also invited to perform at the world-famous Iridium venue in NYC.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Award winning British husband and wife blues-rock duo When Rivers Meet – Grace Bond (lead vocals, mandolin, violin) & Aaron Bond (guitar, vocals) – have announced details of their highly anticipated sophomore album Saving Grace and news of a Headline UK tour in 2022.
Saving Grace will be released by One Road Records on Friday 19th November; it will be available on Coloured Vinyl, CD and Digital.
A first single, 'Testify,' has now been released with accompanying music video.
Saving Grace will be released by One Road Records on Friday 19th November; it will be available on Coloured Vinyl, CD and Digital.
A first single, 'Testify,' has now been released with accompanying music video.
Saving Grace is the follow-up to the band’s critically acclaimed debut album We Fly Free, released in 2020, and their previous two EPs, The Uprising and Innocence of Youth.
Earlier this year WRM became the first-ever artist or band to win four awards at the UK Blues Awards (Blues Band of the Year; Blues Album of the Year; Emerging Blues Artist of the Year; Most Inspirational Online Performance of the Year).
WRM were also voted Best New Band by the listeners of Planet Rock at the radio station’s The Rocks Awards.
With Saving Grace, WRM have set out to produce a blues rock album with a more upbeat, punchy, and exciting sound, as confirmed by Aaron Bond:
"We wanted the album to have more of an upbeat rock feel. We knew exactly what we wanted before we set off to record Saving Grace. We’re so pleased with the result and just hope everyone else loves it as much as we do!"
"Although we wanted to do something different from our previous work, we still wanted all the same elements that make our music distinctive and recognisable as When Rivers Meet," continues Grace Bond, adding that "we also wanted to keep a live, authentic vibe to the new album to retain the energetic feel in the music."
As with their previous album and EPs, Saving Grace was recorded at the Boathouse in Suffolk with producer & engineer Adam Bowers, who also contributes additional instrumentation (drums, bass, keys and trumpet on specific songs).
WRM will undertake a Headline UK tour in support of the album through April & May of 2022.
Special Guest on all dates will be Troy Redfern and his band.
Tickets are now on general sale via The Gig Cartel and See Tickets
https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/When-Rivers-Meet.htm
https://www.seetickets.com/search?q=when+rivers+meet
Earlier this year WRM became the first-ever artist or band to win four awards at the UK Blues Awards (Blues Band of the Year; Blues Album of the Year; Emerging Blues Artist of the Year; Most Inspirational Online Performance of the Year).
WRM were also voted Best New Band by the listeners of Planet Rock at the radio station’s The Rocks Awards.
With Saving Grace, WRM have set out to produce a blues rock album with a more upbeat, punchy, and exciting sound, as confirmed by Aaron Bond:
"We wanted the album to have more of an upbeat rock feel. We knew exactly what we wanted before we set off to record Saving Grace. We’re so pleased with the result and just hope everyone else loves it as much as we do!"
"Although we wanted to do something different from our previous work, we still wanted all the same elements that make our music distinctive and recognisable as When Rivers Meet," continues Grace Bond, adding that "we also wanted to keep a live, authentic vibe to the new album to retain the energetic feel in the music."
As with their previous album and EPs, Saving Grace was recorded at the Boathouse in Suffolk with producer & engineer Adam Bowers, who also contributes additional instrumentation (drums, bass, keys and trumpet on specific songs).
WRM will undertake a Headline UK tour in support of the album through April & May of 2022.
Special Guest on all dates will be Troy Redfern and his band.
Tickets are now on general sale via The Gig Cartel and See Tickets
https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/When-Rivers-Meet.htm
https://www.seetickets.com/search?q=when+rivers+meet
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The legendary Vanilla Fudge, the original line-up of Mark Stein, Carmine Appice, Vincent Martel and the late Tim Bogert, are together one final time to take listeners on a psychedelically-tinged journey through their fully fudged up, six-minute version of The Supremes classic 'Stop In The Name Of Love,' dedicated to "The Legacy Of Tim Bogert."
Back in 2019, vocalist & keyboardist Mark Stein put together an idea for Vanilla Fudge to do an arrangement for 'Stop In The Name Of Love,' hoping to capture the lightning in a bottle that happened with the band’s classic arrangement of The Supremes 'You Keep Me Hangin’ On' back in 1967 (a track that has remained current decades after its release thanks to TV and film placements such as The Sopranos finale and Once Upon A Time In Hollywood respectively).
While the Fudge was out on tour later in 2019 they went into the studio and laid down tracks that would be the foundation of this new release, as Mark Stein explains:
"In mid-2019 I put together a blueprint for an arrangement for Stop in the Name of Love; later that year we went into the studio and recorded the track. We planned to complete it but there were delays and then the pandemic put everything on hold."
By the time they got around to completing the song, renowned bassist Tim Bogert was very ill, but he managed to record his parts at Jorgen Carlsson’s (the bass player for Gov't Mule) studio in LA.
Tim Bogert sadly passed away in January of this year.
"It was very cool that we were able to get Timmy on the track" adds guitarist Vince Martel; "he gave me a great template to build on with my guitar. I created an East Indian raga intro in the spirit of our early albums and rocked out at the end. Hold on tight everybody, cause here comes The Fudge!"
'Stop In The Name Of Love' is available now via Golden Robot Records.
Vanilla Fudge Official Website: www.vanillafudge.com
While the Fudge was out on tour later in 2019 they went into the studio and laid down tracks that would be the foundation of this new release, as Mark Stein explains:
"In mid-2019 I put together a blueprint for an arrangement for Stop in the Name of Love; later that year we went into the studio and recorded the track. We planned to complete it but there were delays and then the pandemic put everything on hold."
By the time they got around to completing the song, renowned bassist Tim Bogert was very ill, but he managed to record his parts at Jorgen Carlsson’s (the bass player for Gov't Mule) studio in LA.
Tim Bogert sadly passed away in January of this year.
"It was very cool that we were able to get Timmy on the track" adds guitarist Vince Martel; "he gave me a great template to build on with my guitar. I created an East Indian raga intro in the spirit of our early albums and rocked out at the end. Hold on tight everybody, cause here comes The Fudge!"
'Stop In The Name Of Love' is available now via Golden Robot Records.
Vanilla Fudge Official Website: www.vanillafudge.com
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blues rock & British folk outfit The Starlite Campbell Band, featuring husband and wife duo Suzy Starlite-Campbell and Simon Campbell, will release their new album The Language of Curiosity on 4th November; the album is the follow-up to the band’s critically acclaimed and European award nominated debut, Blueberry Pie.
You can pre-order the album here: https://shop.starlite-campbell.com/ and purchase new Starlite Campbell Band apparel at: https://shop.starlite-campbell.com/collections/apparel
The Language of Curiosity, like the band, continues to push boundaries and creatively melt and fuse genres, inspired by production techniques of late 60s to early 70s British rock and blues with a sprinkling of psychedelia, as immortalised by Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac, Cream, the Yardbirds, Small Faces, Faces, early Led Zeppelin and Free.
The album has been preceded by three singles - the slow and soulful 'Lay it Out On Me,' the 'Free'-styled sound of 'Stone Cold Crazy' and now 'Gaslight,' an old-school rock and roll number that channels the Stones and The Faces but with a contemporary twist and a Gaslighting lyricism that points to the manipulative, perception changing attempts by the powers that be to alter truth and facts to their own benefit.
You can pre-order the album here: https://shop.starlite-campbell.com/ and purchase new Starlite Campbell Band apparel at: https://shop.starlite-campbell.com/collections/apparel
The Language of Curiosity, like the band, continues to push boundaries and creatively melt and fuse genres, inspired by production techniques of late 60s to early 70s British rock and blues with a sprinkling of psychedelia, as immortalised by Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac, Cream, the Yardbirds, Small Faces, Faces, early Led Zeppelin and Free.
The album has been preceded by three singles - the slow and soulful 'Lay it Out On Me,' the 'Free'-styled sound of 'Stone Cold Crazy' and now 'Gaslight,' an old-school rock and roll number that channels the Stones and The Faces but with a contemporary twist and a Gaslighting lyricism that points to the manipulative, perception changing attempts by the powers that be to alter truth and facts to their own benefit.
The Starlite Campbell Band will be out on the road in the UK & Europe in October and November in support of The Language of Curiosity (see tour dates poster below); further details (more dates are expected to be added) and ticket information can be found at: https://starlite-campbell.com/gigs
Additionally, the duo are writing and recording a new British folk album, The Coat, at their Supertone Records recording studio near Lisbon, Portugal.
The album, which will feature instrumentation such as Suzy Starlite’s King John acoustic bass and Simon Campbell’s Touchstone walnut mandolin, is set for release in early 2022.
Additionally, the duo are writing and recording a new British folk album, The Coat, at their Supertone Records recording studio near Lisbon, Portugal.
The album, which will feature instrumentation such as Suzy Starlite’s King John acoustic bass and Simon Campbell’s Touchstone walnut mandolin, is set for release in early 2022.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Australian teenage rocker Cassidy Paris has released a new single, 'Wannabe.'
The song is lifted from her forthcoming 5-track EP FLIRT, which will be released 1st September
Pre-order here: https://www.ecwid.com/store/store14194061/
The rocky punk-pop of 'Wannabe' sees Cassidy Paris delivering a song based on personal experience about society’s obsession with popularity through lyrical finger pointing at fakery and celebrity.
"The song focuses on the obsession today’s youth has on popularity and how they are willing to sacrifice their friendships and integrity for it" says Cassidy Paris, continuing: "they all want to be Tik Tok or YouTube Stars. I have never really understood how people can fake friendships; talentless people are trying to become famous for doing nothing at all."
The song is lifted from her forthcoming 5-track EP FLIRT, which will be released 1st September
Pre-order here: https://www.ecwid.com/store/store14194061/
The rocky punk-pop of 'Wannabe' sees Cassidy Paris delivering a song based on personal experience about society’s obsession with popularity through lyrical finger pointing at fakery and celebrity.
"The song focuses on the obsession today’s youth has on popularity and how they are willing to sacrifice their friendships and integrity for it" says Cassidy Paris, continuing: "they all want to be Tik Tok or YouTube Stars. I have never really understood how people can fake friendships; talentless people are trying to become famous for doing nothing at all."
'Wannabee' follows on from 2020 single 'Like I Never Loved You,' which received rave reviews worldwide.
'Like I Never Loved You' will also feature on the EP.
Inspired by female rockers such as Lzzy Hale, Joan Jett, Pink, Pat Benatar & Avril Lavigne, the fiercely determined Cassidy Paris is on a mission to inspire a new generation of younger fans to not only listen to Rock n Roll, but pick up a guitar instead of a phone.
From early on, Cassidy Paris wanted to deliver a strong message through her music.
In 2018 she released the ballad 'Stand,' a heartfelt song about standing up for yourself as a young woman. She continues to deliver that message by promoting anti-bullying through performances at many schools around Melbourne; she is also an active campaigner for the worldwide Metalheads Against Bullying organisation.
Musically, Cassidy Paris’s talents have not gone unnoticed – Fender have joined forces with her as an endorsee of Fender Squier Guitars and she made the semi-finals of the International Songwritng Competition (ISC) for Best Rock Song and Best Unsigned Artist.
Cassidy Paris recently joined Polestar’s roster of bands, which will see her tour the UK in 2022.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'Like I Never Loved You' will also feature on the EP.
Inspired by female rockers such as Lzzy Hale, Joan Jett, Pink, Pat Benatar & Avril Lavigne, the fiercely determined Cassidy Paris is on a mission to inspire a new generation of younger fans to not only listen to Rock n Roll, but pick up a guitar instead of a phone.
From early on, Cassidy Paris wanted to deliver a strong message through her music.
In 2018 she released the ballad 'Stand,' a heartfelt song about standing up for yourself as a young woman. She continues to deliver that message by promoting anti-bullying through performances at many schools around Melbourne; she is also an active campaigner for the worldwide Metalheads Against Bullying organisation.
Musically, Cassidy Paris’s talents have not gone unnoticed – Fender have joined forces with her as an endorsee of Fender Squier Guitars and she made the semi-finals of the International Songwritng Competition (ISC) for Best Rock Song and Best Unsigned Artist.
Cassidy Paris recently joined Polestar’s roster of bands, which will see her tour the UK in 2022.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nashville based (but far from traditionally Nashville sounding) duo The Bloody Nerve have returned five years on from their noted debut album Taste (a creative blend of Delta meets the Rolling Stones (had they been from Nashville) 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 guitarist/ singer Stacey Blood, the album itself will be conceptually serialised and released "episodically" (and by "Act," via four EPs) like a Netflix series.
The first act of three episodes/ tracks, Act 1, is out now, as is 'Episode 3 : Roads' as a single, with accompanying video.
Of the song, Bloody Nerve vocalist Laurie Anne Layne says "A lot of the album was written over a few years but Roads was written right before the pandemic - ‘‘Clean up, you’re contagious,” right?
Coming from November of 2019, that’s been a pretty spooky lyric lying around.
The song is about the culture wars of the 21st Century, but who knew an actual contagion would be flashing shades of that in our world just a few months later? Yeah, pretty spooky!"
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 guitarist/ singer Stacey Blood, the album itself will be conceptually serialised and released "episodically" (and by "Act," via four EPs) like a Netflix series.
The first act of three episodes/ tracks, Act 1, is out now, as is 'Episode 3 : Roads' as a single, with accompanying video.
Of the song, Bloody Nerve vocalist Laurie Anne Layne says "A lot of the album was written over a few years but Roads was written right before the pandemic - ‘‘Clean up, you’re contagious,” right?
Coming from November of 2019, that’s been a pretty spooky lyric lying around.
The song is about the culture wars of the 21st Century, but who knew an actual contagion would be flashing shades of that in our world just a few months later? Yeah, pretty spooky!"
'Roads,' a radio broadcast styled call top arms over an uncompromising and anarchic post-punk soundscape, follows on from the grunge 'n' roll of 'Episode 2 : What’s It Say? (About You)' and last year’s ear catching (courtesy of Laurie Ann Layne’s powerful vocal performance) 'Episode 1 – A Million Arms.'
All three tracks make up Act 1, which is available now on all digital platforms and a limited edition CD.
CD link: https://thebloodynerve.com/product/all-blood-no-treasure-act-i/
Website: https://thebloodynerve.com/
"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
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All three tracks make up Act 1, which is available now on all digital platforms and a limited edition CD.
CD link: https://thebloodynerve.com/product/all-blood-no-treasure-act-i/
Website: https://thebloodynerve.com/
"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
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marillion will embark upon their The Light At The End of The Tunnel 10 date UK tour in November, which culminates with two shows in London at the Eventim Apollo Hammersmith.
One lucky fan can also win a pair of tickets for EVERY show on the tour (see details further below).
Of the tour and forthcoming new album, Marillion vocalist Steve Hogarth says:
"No, it isn’t a train coming the other way, it is in fact, The Light at the End of the Tunnel!
We spent our time in the tunnel writing our twentieth studio album; when we tour the UK in November, we’ll debut one or two new tracks along with what we feel is the best of our huge catalogue.
Our fans are legendary creatures of faith and enthusiasm - some say obsession - so we can’t wait for that feeling of reunification as we return from the wilderness, to the stage. The light is gonna feel good!
From Tuesday 31st August until Friday 3rd September, via the official website, there is the opportunity for someone to win tickets to the whole The Light At The End of The Tunnel UK Tour - the band will be revealing the initials of the new album and asking fans to guess the title before revealing it on the 3rd September.
Website: www.marillion.com
Tickets for the tour are available from www.myticket.co.uk/artists/marillion
PLEASE NOTE the Apollo Hammersmith shows will be one night seated (26th Nov) and one night standing (27th Nov).
One lucky fan can also win a pair of tickets for EVERY show on the tour (see details further below).
Of the tour and forthcoming new album, Marillion vocalist Steve Hogarth says:
"No, it isn’t a train coming the other way, it is in fact, The Light at the End of the Tunnel!
We spent our time in the tunnel writing our twentieth studio album; when we tour the UK in November, we’ll debut one or two new tracks along with what we feel is the best of our huge catalogue.
Our fans are legendary creatures of faith and enthusiasm - some say obsession - so we can’t wait for that feeling of reunification as we return from the wilderness, to the stage. The light is gonna feel good!
From Tuesday 31st August until Friday 3rd September, via the official website, there is the opportunity for someone to win tickets to the whole The Light At The End of The Tunnel UK Tour - the band will be revealing the initials of the new album and asking fans to guess the title before revealing it on the 3rd September.
Website: www.marillion.com
Tickets for the tour are available from www.myticket.co.uk/artists/marillion
PLEASE NOTE the Apollo Hammersmith shows will be one night seated (26th Nov) and one night standing (27th Nov).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scottish band The Outfit, originally formed around bass legend Chris Glen (most famously a mainstay of The Sensational Alex Harvey Band and Michael Schenker Group alumni member), have reintroduced themselves post lockdown and following last year’s livestream, with a new original number, 'You Move My Heart.'
Featuring Chris Glen, vocalist Chris Aylward, guitarist Peter Higgins (Chris Slade's Timeline, Glen-White-McManus) and drummer John Clelland (Thundercloud, Eden’s Curse, Code Of Silence) 'You Move My Heart' is a chunky slice of hard melodic rock that recalls the likes of Thunder, Brian Howe led Bad Company and late 80s/ early 90s ‘hook’ rock.
Featuring Chris Glen, vocalist Chris Aylward, guitarist Peter Higgins (Chris Slade's Timeline, Glen-White-McManus) and drummer John Clelland (Thundercloud, Eden’s Curse, Code Of Silence) 'You Move My Heart' is a chunky slice of hard melodic rock that recalls the likes of Thunder, Brian Howe led Bad Company and late 80s/ early 90s ‘hook’ rock.
The single can be purchased now at https://theoutfitscotland.bandcamp.com/track/you-move-my-heart
It will also be available soon on all major digital streaming platforms.
Recorded at Substation Studio, Rosyth. Sound recording, mixing & mastering – Michael Brennan.
Additional keyboards – Stuart Clyde (Stillmarillion, Glasgow), on Hammond and Wurlitzer.
Video Direction and Production – Graham "Gebs" Gebbie. Additional Video Recording – Mike Drew
Video recorded at Berkeley2 Studios, Glasgow.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It will also be available soon on all major digital streaming platforms.
Recorded at Substation Studio, Rosyth. Sound recording, mixing & mastering – Michael Brennan.
Additional keyboards – Stuart Clyde (Stillmarillion, Glasgow), on Hammond and Wurlitzer.
Video Direction and Production – Graham "Gebs" Gebbie. Additional Video Recording – Mike Drew
Video recorded at Berkeley2 Studios, Glasgow.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It’s fair to say multi-talented composer, performer and blues rock musician Mike Ross has kept himself musically busy through lockdowns and lack of live performance.
Having recently released his new album The Clovis Limit : Tennessee Transition (an acoustic companion piece to the critically acclaimed The Clovis Limit Pt 1 and Pt 2 albums), and on the back of a successfully funded remix & restoration project for previously unreleased album Lay it Bare by Taller Than (Mike Ross’s old band; click here to read FabricationsHQ's review), the multi-faceted musician has now completed another successful funding campaign for Origin Story, an album of new recordings of old songs.
The chosen tracks, sourced from the Mike Ross archive of cassette and DAT tapes, CD-Rs and 1/2" tape masters (most of which have lain undisturbed since 1997) will showcase Ross’s 1990s career history from his time in Afterglow (1994-1996) and Mother Sugar (1996-1997), and on to forming the power trio Taller Than in 1998.
Four songs from each band (including some very rare tracks from the Taller Than repertoire), newly
re-recorded, will form the album.
The newly re-recorded 'Seabird' (originally performed by Afterglow) has been released as a Video Single.
Having recently released his new album The Clovis Limit : Tennessee Transition (an acoustic companion piece to the critically acclaimed The Clovis Limit Pt 1 and Pt 2 albums), and on the back of a successfully funded remix & restoration project for previously unreleased album Lay it Bare by Taller Than (Mike Ross’s old band; click here to read FabricationsHQ's review), the multi-faceted musician has now completed another successful funding campaign for Origin Story, an album of new recordings of old songs.
The chosen tracks, sourced from the Mike Ross archive of cassette and DAT tapes, CD-Rs and 1/2" tape masters (most of which have lain undisturbed since 1997) will showcase Ross’s 1990s career history from his time in Afterglow (1994-1996) and Mother Sugar (1996-1997), and on to forming the power trio Taller Than in 1998.
Four songs from each band (including some very rare tracks from the Taller Than repertoire), newly
re-recorded, will form the album.
The newly re-recorded 'Seabird' (originally performed by Afterglow) has been released as a Video Single.
If that's not enough Mike Ross (who has clearly found a way to get 25 hours into his day), bolstered by the crowd funded success of both Lay it Bare and Origin Story, is now also working on an instrumental project.
Entitled Peach Jam, the project is built upon the back of the aforementioned Origin Story.
A pre-order link for Peach Jam (which will be in the form of a highly collectable 12" Picture Disc with accompanying CD) is now available on Mike Ross's website:
https://shop.mikerossmusic.co.uk/product/peach-jam-12-album-picture-disc-pre-order
Of the proposed instrumental album, which has a scheduled release of January 2022, Mike Ross says:
"It's influenced by classic US jam bands like The Grateful Dead &The Allman Brothers and 70's Krautrock artists such as Nectar and Agitation Free.
I've been working on it alongside the Origin Story material and it's going to be really special - somewhat similar to the instrumental 'Unforgiven' from my album 'The Clovis Limit Pt.2' but with many many more twists and turns! You can learn more about it by watching the following video."
Entitled Peach Jam, the project is built upon the back of the aforementioned Origin Story.
A pre-order link for Peach Jam (which will be in the form of a highly collectable 12" Picture Disc with accompanying CD) is now available on Mike Ross's website:
https://shop.mikerossmusic.co.uk/product/peach-jam-12-album-picture-disc-pre-order
Of the proposed instrumental album, which has a scheduled release of January 2022, Mike Ross says:
"It's influenced by classic US jam bands like The Grateful Dead &The Allman Brothers and 70's Krautrock artists such as Nectar and Agitation Free.
I've been working on it alongside the Origin Story material and it's going to be really special - somewhat similar to the instrumental 'Unforgiven' from my album 'The Clovis Limit Pt.2' but with many many more twists and turns! You can learn more about it by watching the following video."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Runrig, the acclaimed and highly successful Scottish Celtic rock and who disbanded in 2018 after a 45 year history, will tell the story of that rock and folk history when the anticipated documentary There Must Be A Place is released on Friday 29th October.
With unprecedented access to the band’s personal archives the film is the definitive story of one of Scotland’s most popular and iconic bands.
The 100-minute music documentary, created in partnership with Screen Scotland, is available to pre-order from Cherry Red Records at www.cherryred.co.uk/artist/runrig/
A deluxe coffee table book edition of the documentary includes a standard and Blu-ray DVD edition of the feature-length documentary together with a wealth of exclusive photographs.
Fans can also pre-order limited editions of There Must Be A Place T-Shirt, film print and postcards.
European fans can pre-order the film from Sony Music Entertainment Germany in DVD format, Blu-ray and a limited edition boxset.
Runrig’s story is an emotional tale of ups and downs, tearful twists and joyful turns.
From humble beginnings as a ceilidh band started by two brothers and a friend from the Isle of Skye in 1973, they grew to become one of Scotland’s best-loved groups, selling out concerts across from the dance halls of the Scottish Highlands and Islands to New York’s Times Square.
With lead singer Donnie Munro they went from a young band chasing a dream to signing a major record deal with Chrysalis Records and playing an iconic gig at Loch Lomond in 1991 in front of 50,000 fans.
After Donnie Munro left to pursue a career in politics in 1997 the band, via a chance discovery of singer Bruce Guthro, gained a new leased of musical life, leading to further chart success and European tours.
Runrig’s journey ended in 2018 with two emotional farewell concerts under Stirling’s historic castle, where 50,000 fans sang, cried and danced out their memories.
Produced by Steven Little and BAFTA award-wining digital entertainment company Blazing Griffin and directed by Grierson and multiple BAFTA winner Jack Cocker, the film features 54 songs, including rousing renditions of 'Loch Lomond' and 'Hearts of Olden Glory,' capturing the close emotional connection between the band and their loyal fans.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With unprecedented access to the band’s personal archives the film is the definitive story of one of Scotland’s most popular and iconic bands.
The 100-minute music documentary, created in partnership with Screen Scotland, is available to pre-order from Cherry Red Records at www.cherryred.co.uk/artist/runrig/
A deluxe coffee table book edition of the documentary includes a standard and Blu-ray DVD edition of the feature-length documentary together with a wealth of exclusive photographs.
Fans can also pre-order limited editions of There Must Be A Place T-Shirt, film print and postcards.
European fans can pre-order the film from Sony Music Entertainment Germany in DVD format, Blu-ray and a limited edition boxset.
Runrig’s story is an emotional tale of ups and downs, tearful twists and joyful turns.
From humble beginnings as a ceilidh band started by two brothers and a friend from the Isle of Skye in 1973, they grew to become one of Scotland’s best-loved groups, selling out concerts across from the dance halls of the Scottish Highlands and Islands to New York’s Times Square.
With lead singer Donnie Munro they went from a young band chasing a dream to signing a major record deal with Chrysalis Records and playing an iconic gig at Loch Lomond in 1991 in front of 50,000 fans.
After Donnie Munro left to pursue a career in politics in 1997 the band, via a chance discovery of singer Bruce Guthro, gained a new leased of musical life, leading to further chart success and European tours.
Runrig’s journey ended in 2018 with two emotional farewell concerts under Stirling’s historic castle, where 50,000 fans sang, cried and danced out their memories.
Produced by Steven Little and BAFTA award-wining digital entertainment company Blazing Griffin and directed by Grierson and multiple BAFTA winner Jack Cocker, the film features 54 songs, including rousing renditions of 'Loch Lomond' and 'Hearts of Olden Glory,' capturing the close emotional connection between the band and their loyal fans.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Photo by Laurence Harvey
Award-winning South African blues-rock singer-songwriter-guitarist, Dan Patlansky, will make a welcome return to British shores when he undertakes a 10-date UK tour in March & April 2022 in support of what will be his forthcoming, and tenth, studio album.
Special guest on all shows (except at The Deaf Institute, Manchester) is American singer-songwriter and Brian May guitar protégé Arielle.
Arielle, who has just released her excellent new studio album Analog Girl in a Digital World (a collection of well-crafted melodic Americana and contemporary pop rock 'n' roll), has opened for the likes of Joe Bonamassa, Vince Gill, Eric Johnson and Greg Allman.
The talented old-school artist (she truly is an analog girl in a digital world) also recently released her own signature guitar with Brian May Guitars in March 2021.
For Dan Patlansky, the 2022 UK dates will be his first since his Perfection Kills UK tour in 2018.
The following year, Patlansky constantly wrote for what will be his forthcoming studio album, to be released in early 2022.
"I recorded the new record mid 2019 in my hometown of Pretoria; I was unhappy with the result though so recorded most of the album end of 2019" says Dan Patlansky, continuing: "Covid 19 put the brakes on any touring and release options for 2020 so that gave me the opportunity to really refine the album, with a rewrite of a few songs, and re-record of a few tracks, in early 2021.
Additionally I’ve spent the last year building up a following on my Patreon page, which is a subscription-based platform where I release weekly guitar tuition material and content."
Lockdown also provided Patlansky with the rare opportunity to work on many aspects of his music and craft:
"I feel have really made big strides in my playing and singing style, as well as writing, arranging and production that will be evident on the release of the new record."
On the forthcoming album Dan Patlansky played only one guitar, his newest, a Masterbuilt Jason Smith Fender Strat.
"It’s a replica of my three Strats I’ve played for years; the neck of the 62, the body of the 64 and the colour of the partocaster. It’s the best sounding guitar I’ve ever owned and I’m looking forward to playing it when I tour the UK in 2022!"
Dan Patlansky’s 2018 album Perfection Kills was the follow up to the critically acclaimed Introvertigo, which was voted #1 Blues Rock Album in 2016 by Blues Rock Review.
Tickets for the 2022 UK shows (below) are on sale now via
www.thegigcartel.com and www.danpatlansky.com/shows
Special guest on all shows (except at The Deaf Institute, Manchester) is American singer-songwriter and Brian May guitar protégé Arielle.
Arielle, who has just released her excellent new studio album Analog Girl in a Digital World (a collection of well-crafted melodic Americana and contemporary pop rock 'n' roll), has opened for the likes of Joe Bonamassa, Vince Gill, Eric Johnson and Greg Allman.
The talented old-school artist (she truly is an analog girl in a digital world) also recently released her own signature guitar with Brian May Guitars in March 2021.
For Dan Patlansky, the 2022 UK dates will be his first since his Perfection Kills UK tour in 2018.
The following year, Patlansky constantly wrote for what will be his forthcoming studio album, to be released in early 2022.
"I recorded the new record mid 2019 in my hometown of Pretoria; I was unhappy with the result though so recorded most of the album end of 2019" says Dan Patlansky, continuing: "Covid 19 put the brakes on any touring and release options for 2020 so that gave me the opportunity to really refine the album, with a rewrite of a few songs, and re-record of a few tracks, in early 2021.
Additionally I’ve spent the last year building up a following on my Patreon page, which is a subscription-based platform where I release weekly guitar tuition material and content."
Lockdown also provided Patlansky with the rare opportunity to work on many aspects of his music and craft:
"I feel have really made big strides in my playing and singing style, as well as writing, arranging and production that will be evident on the release of the new record."
On the forthcoming album Dan Patlansky played only one guitar, his newest, a Masterbuilt Jason Smith Fender Strat.
"It’s a replica of my three Strats I’ve played for years; the neck of the 62, the body of the 64 and the colour of the partocaster. It’s the best sounding guitar I’ve ever owned and I’m looking forward to playing it when I tour the UK in 2022!"
Dan Patlansky’s 2018 album Perfection Kills was the follow up to the critically acclaimed Introvertigo, which was voted #1 Blues Rock Album in 2016 by Blues Rock Review.
Tickets for the 2022 UK shows (below) are on sale now via
www.thegigcartel.com and www.danpatlansky.com/shows
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Midlands based, rock 'n' soul-inspired quartet Rainbreakers are returning to the fray with impressive new material that will see the light of day on their forthcoming new album, to be released later this year.
The band’s return, which follows their seriously impressive 2018 full-length debut album Face To Face, was celebrated first by the single 'Ashes,' and now by the follow-up 'Light Me Up' and its accompanying Official Video (directed, filmed and edited by Morgan Tedd at Erase Creative, assisted by Joel Seccombe).
The band’s return, which follows their seriously impressive 2018 full-length debut album Face To Face, was celebrated first by the single 'Ashes,' and now by the follow-up 'Light Me Up' and its accompanying Official Video (directed, filmed and edited by Morgan Tedd at Erase Creative, assisted by Joel Seccombe).
You can purchase the new single (in limited edition 7" vinyl), previous single 'Ashes' and pre-order the new album (plus various merch bundle offers) at the band's on-line shop: https://www.therainbreakers.com/shop
The Rainbreakers are:
Ben Edwards (vocals); Charlie Richards (guitar); Ash Milburn (bass), Sam Edwards (drums).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rainbreakers are:
Ben Edwards (vocals); Charlie Richards (guitar); Ash Milburn (bass), Sam Edwards (drums).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
They’re gonna put me in the movies (soundtrack)... or how an icy road led to a gritty sounding supergroup known as the L.A. Rats...
When Big Machine Label Group founder and entrepreneur Scott Borchetta was tasked with helming the soundtrack to Liam Neeson’s upcoming Netflix thriller The Ice Road, and knowing he wanted a rocking psycho-billy track to anchor an eclectic collection of songs, he called his friend and bassist Nikki Sixx about a collaboration with vocalist Rob Zombie.
Eschewing the possibility of a new song, the now four-piece group – Nicki Sixx, Rob Zombie, Zombie’s guitarist John 5 and drummer Tommy Clufetos – chose to pick out the oft-covered and later Johnny Cash classic 'I’ve Been Everywhere' (a song that was always earmarked as potential inclusion).
Fair to say they made it their own…
When Big Machine Label Group founder and entrepreneur Scott Borchetta was tasked with helming the soundtrack to Liam Neeson’s upcoming Netflix thriller The Ice Road, and knowing he wanted a rocking psycho-billy track to anchor an eclectic collection of songs, he called his friend and bassist Nikki Sixx about a collaboration with vocalist Rob Zombie.
Eschewing the possibility of a new song, the now four-piece group – Nicki Sixx, Rob Zombie, Zombie’s guitarist John 5 and drummer Tommy Clufetos – chose to pick out the oft-covered and later Johnny Cash classic 'I’ve Been Everywhere' (a song that was always earmarked as potential inclusion).
Fair to say they made it their own…
"This song is so rock & roll, is so country, is so all of it – the traveling circus, city to city, riff to riff, greasy cheeseburger, rinse and repeat; poetry based on reality – it’s something every one of us has lived!
We wanted to bring that fire that’s Johnny Cash, but it’s also how do we flip it? John 5 and I brought in this Zeppeliny half-time thing from the beginning with Rob talking on the outro.
But I also did some stuff that suggested the original, like those big walks through the guitar parts upright player style. We all had that freedom to go other places, and we did!" - Nikki Sixx
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We wanted to bring that fire that’s Johnny Cash, but it’s also how do we flip it? John 5 and I brought in this Zeppeliny half-time thing from the beginning with Rob talking on the outro.
But I also did some stuff that suggested the original, like those big walks through the guitar parts upright player style. We all had that freedom to go other places, and we did!" - Nikki Sixx
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'Walking Free,' the first single release from trad/roots-blues Scottish duo Sister Gavin and the Gator (aka singer Adele Gavin and highly expressive blues-slide guitarist Iain Donald), couldn’t be better timed.
At the heart of the song’s pleaful and evocative vocal, slide and handclaps arrangement is a traditionally framed, delta meets gospel blues; but it also doubles as an uplifting, soulful cry to remain positive in the current state of global affairs and the hope we can, indeed, all be walking free from pandemic and political divide in a future yet to be realised.
Strong as the song is, it becomes even more the story-telling number when set within the accompanying Lyric Video...
At the heart of the song’s pleaful and evocative vocal, slide and handclaps arrangement is a traditionally framed, delta meets gospel blues; but it also doubles as an uplifting, soulful cry to remain positive in the current state of global affairs and the hope we can, indeed, all be walking free from pandemic and political divide in a future yet to be realised.
Strong as the song is, it becomes even more the story-telling number when set within the accompanying Lyric Video...
Singer-songwriter Adele Gavin and guitarist Iain Donald formed a musical partnership in 2019 when the two friends played together at a jam session and brought new life to each other’s music.
During the first Covid Lockdown the duo isolated together in order to stream live music through the
Covid-19 Charity Page they had set up to help musicians raise money for local charities in Scotland and encourage people to remain hopeful whilst at home; they continue to perform live-steam concerts during the second lockdown.
An otherwise unavailable and longer version of 'Walking Free' (a more "fife & drum" arrangement featuring drummer Dave Cantwell) can be purchased via the duo's Bandcamp page: https://sistergavinandthegator.bandcamp.com/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
During the first Covid Lockdown the duo isolated together in order to stream live music through the
Covid-19 Charity Page they had set up to help musicians raise money for local charities in Scotland and encourage people to remain hopeful whilst at home; they continue to perform live-steam concerts during the second lockdown.
An otherwise unavailable and longer version of 'Walking Free' (a more "fife & drum" arrangement featuring drummer Dave Cantwell) can be purchased via the duo's Bandcamp page: https://sistergavinandthegator.bandcamp.com/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Photo by Kevin McCollum
The pandemic and associated lockdowns may have curtailed live gigs but it hasn’t stopped many an artist getting on with recording or adding further strings to their bows – or in the case of Ali Ferguson, his guitar.
An ambient focussed composer, Scottish guitarist-singer-producer-solo artist Ali Ferguson is also known for his touring and recording time with fellow Scot, singer Ray Wilson (Stiltskin, Genesis/Calling All Stations), 80s hitmakers Red Box and Scottish folk legend legend Dougie Maclean.
More recently however Ali Ferguson stepped in as a radio guest-host when he presented The Prog Show on Radio Mix 106.
Given the musician’s penchant for atmospheric and melodic soundscapes (his own work combines spoken word, samples, beautiful Gilmour-esque guitar and electronica) his playlisting wasn’t, refreshingly, all about the usual prog suspects or songs; instead the likes of Sigur Ros, Ashra and Tycho shared ambient space with deeper cuts from Peter Gabriel and Pink Floyd.
Additionally, with touring still some way off, Ali Ferguson has rejoined the ranks of GuitarGuitar Edinburgh as part of their sales team.
Even better news for fans of Ali Ferguson and his music was the recent announcement that four of the eight tracks that will make up the Edinburgh based artist’s third solo album, The Contemplative Power Of Water, have now been completed.
The tracks are being mixed by Graeme Hughes, who also mixed Ferguson’s previous album, 2016’s A Sequence Of Moments, which featured ethereal soundscapes such as 'Out Of the Dark.'
An ambient focussed composer, Scottish guitarist-singer-producer-solo artist Ali Ferguson is also known for his touring and recording time with fellow Scot, singer Ray Wilson (Stiltskin, Genesis/Calling All Stations), 80s hitmakers Red Box and Scottish folk legend legend Dougie Maclean.
More recently however Ali Ferguson stepped in as a radio guest-host when he presented The Prog Show on Radio Mix 106.
Given the musician’s penchant for atmospheric and melodic soundscapes (his own work combines spoken word, samples, beautiful Gilmour-esque guitar and electronica) his playlisting wasn’t, refreshingly, all about the usual prog suspects or songs; instead the likes of Sigur Ros, Ashra and Tycho shared ambient space with deeper cuts from Peter Gabriel and Pink Floyd.
Additionally, with touring still some way off, Ali Ferguson has rejoined the ranks of GuitarGuitar Edinburgh as part of their sales team.
Even better news for fans of Ali Ferguson and his music was the recent announcement that four of the eight tracks that will make up the Edinburgh based artist’s third solo album, The Contemplative Power Of Water, have now been completed.
The tracks are being mixed by Graeme Hughes, who also mixed Ferguson’s previous album, 2016’s A Sequence Of Moments, which featured ethereal soundscapes such as 'Out Of the Dark.'
Work on the remaining four tracks that will make up The Contemplative Power of Water is expected to commence soon; the pre-order/ crowdfunder for the album will also be announced shortly.
Meanwhile you can check out and/ or purchase Ali Ferguson’s previous albums and other songs on his bandcamp page: https://aliferguson.bandcamp.com/music
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile you can check out and/ or purchase Ali Ferguson’s previous albums and other songs on his bandcamp page: https://aliferguson.bandcamp.com/music
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"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