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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & PR
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & PR
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Attention grabbing conteporary rockers The Now have released a new single and video 'Special Kind of Stupid.'
The song is lifted from their dynamic debut album Too Hot To Handle, which was released earlier in the year. It's available on CD, Vinyl and Digital platforms via Trew Music here: https://linktr.ee/Thenowuk
On the theme of the new single the band say "It’s about a friend's ex-girlfriend who was brazenly cheating on him in our home town. She was spending his money to go out on dates with other men, so we had to drag him out and help him get back on his feet after the embarrassment of what happened. We’re sure it’s happened to plenty of other people too!"
The song is lifted from their dynamic debut album Too Hot To Handle, which was released earlier in the year. It's available on CD, Vinyl and Digital platforms via Trew Music here: https://linktr.ee/Thenowuk
On the theme of the new single the band say "It’s about a friend's ex-girlfriend who was brazenly cheating on him in our home town. She was spending his money to go out on dates with other men, so we had to drag him out and help him get back on his feet after the embarrassment of what happened. We’re sure it’s happened to plenty of other people too!"
Too Hot To Handle, recorded at Real World Studios and produced by Grammy Award winning Oli Jacobs (Peter Gabriel, The 1975), was released in March this year to stellar reviews across the board:
"Great songs, intelligent writing, intuitive production" (Metaltalk)
"They genuinely do sound different to everyone else" (Emerging Rock Bands)
"One of the best releases of 2024" (Metalplanet Music)
"A fresh sounding band who are musically, lyrically, and wholly, in The Now" (FabricationsHQ)
Hailing from South Wales, the band’s kinetic energy ensures that not only will you see one of the best shows around, there’s a place for you to escape the mundane fallacies of day to day life.
Their hooky, instantly relatable music has been featured as a Planet Rock Track of The Week, on ITV, BBC Radio 2 Johnnie Walker Show and Sky Sports, to name a few.
The Now have supported Reef and Florence Black and shared the stage with the likes of Placebo, Noel Gallagher, Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes; they received a rapturous reception at The Isle of Wight Festival and a fantastic ovation at Planet Rockstock.
They also delivered a roof-raising performance at the Station 18 Festival in Swansea and were invited to play the main stage at the inaugural Rising Festival in Staffordshire.
The band will next play a special show at Karma Sanctum in Soho, September 25th, to showcase their debut album before venturing north to District in Liverpool, October 25th.
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"Great songs, intelligent writing, intuitive production" (Metaltalk)
"They genuinely do sound different to everyone else" (Emerging Rock Bands)
"One of the best releases of 2024" (Metalplanet Music)
"A fresh sounding band who are musically, lyrically, and wholly, in The Now" (FabricationsHQ)
Hailing from South Wales, the band’s kinetic energy ensures that not only will you see one of the best shows around, there’s a place for you to escape the mundane fallacies of day to day life.
Their hooky, instantly relatable music has been featured as a Planet Rock Track of The Week, on ITV, BBC Radio 2 Johnnie Walker Show and Sky Sports, to name a few.
The Now have supported Reef and Florence Black and shared the stage with the likes of Placebo, Noel Gallagher, Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes; they received a rapturous reception at The Isle of Wight Festival and a fantastic ovation at Planet Rockstock.
They also delivered a roof-raising performance at the Station 18 Festival in Swansea and were invited to play the main stage at the inaugural Rising Festival in Staffordshire.
The band will next play a special show at Karma Sanctum in Soho, September 25th, to showcase their debut album before venturing north to District in Liverpool, October 25th.
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Netherlands rock 'n' psychedelic soul blues trio DeWolff have announced their new studio album Muscle Shoals, which, as the title so proudly states, was recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, and legendary FAME studios, in Alabama.
The album will be released on 6th December via Mascot Records. Pre-Order here: https://lnk.to/DeWolff
The first taster of the album, the lead-off single 'In Love,' is out now.
A swirling, funky soul ode to cheating, 'In Love' "is about if you're with someone for a long time and you meet someone else, and they really turn your world upside down by challenging the promises you make to your partner when you have a long term relationship" says the band’s singer/ guitarist Pablo van de Poel. "There's a line that goes 'tell me babe why can't we meet, at the dark end of the street,' which is a reference to 'Dark End of the Street,' written by Muscle Shoals songwriter Dan Penn."
The album will be released on 6th December via Mascot Records. Pre-Order here: https://lnk.to/DeWolff
The first taster of the album, the lead-off single 'In Love,' is out now.
A swirling, funky soul ode to cheating, 'In Love' "is about if you're with someone for a long time and you meet someone else, and they really turn your world upside down by challenging the promises you make to your partner when you have a long term relationship" says the band’s singer/ guitarist Pablo van de Poel. "There's a line that goes 'tell me babe why can't we meet, at the dark end of the street,' which is a reference to 'Dark End of the Street,' written by Muscle Shoals songwriter Dan Penn."
When the opportunity arose for DeWolff to head to Muscle Shoals to record it was a dream come true. "Even before we were into southern rock, as a kid, Luka got an album of southern soul, and most of it was recorded at FAME." says Pablo of his brother. "Our introduction to soul didn't start with James Brown; we started with Wilson Pickett."
In May 2024, the band travelled to Muscle Shoals to record their tenth studio album between the two studios with Grammy Award-winning producer Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes).
"Right when we played our first notes there, I got goosebumps" says Pablo. "This was one of the best recording experiences we've ever had. The grand piano Leon Russell used was still there, just like the electric Wurlitzer piano that was used on 'I Never Loved a Man' by Aretha Franklin!"
Over the past eighteen months DeWolff have preached their Electric Gospel on a cruise, in a castle, numerous headline tours across Europe and transformed festival crowds into their own disciples.
They've toured with The Black Crowes and have previously played shows with Blues Pills, Deep Purple and TOTO. They can also count Seasick Steve as a fan.
Muscle Shoals follows last year’s studio album Love Death & In Between.
Between those albums DeWolff have celebrated an Edison Award nomination (The Dutch Grammys), released Live & Outta Sight III and received the live music award, the Gouden Notekraker.
In June 2023 they produced the world's fastest studio-to-store record 2 hours, 59 minutes, 38 seconds for 'Rosita Rápida,' beating the record previously held by Jack White.
Formed in Geleen in the Netherlands as teenagers, Pablo van de Poel, Luka van de Poel (drums/ vocals) and Robin Piso (Hammond/ Wurlitzer), have carved out a place for themselves as carefree musical adventurers; prolific in the studio and well-worn road-rovers.
"It sounds like a fantasy story," reflects Pablo. "Seventeen years ago, my mind would have never dared to think of all the things we’ve done and places we’ve seen."
April 2025 UK Headline Tour Dates
Tickets available at https://www.dewolff.nu/#/shows
12th April - Stereo, Glasgow
13th April - Deaf Institute, Manchester
15th April - Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
16th April - The Fleece, Bristol
17th April - O2 Academy, Oxford
18th April - Garage, London
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In May 2024, the band travelled to Muscle Shoals to record their tenth studio album between the two studios with Grammy Award-winning producer Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes).
"Right when we played our first notes there, I got goosebumps" says Pablo. "This was one of the best recording experiences we've ever had. The grand piano Leon Russell used was still there, just like the electric Wurlitzer piano that was used on 'I Never Loved a Man' by Aretha Franklin!"
Over the past eighteen months DeWolff have preached their Electric Gospel on a cruise, in a castle, numerous headline tours across Europe and transformed festival crowds into their own disciples.
They've toured with The Black Crowes and have previously played shows with Blues Pills, Deep Purple and TOTO. They can also count Seasick Steve as a fan.
Muscle Shoals follows last year’s studio album Love Death & In Between.
Between those albums DeWolff have celebrated an Edison Award nomination (The Dutch Grammys), released Live & Outta Sight III and received the live music award, the Gouden Notekraker.
In June 2023 they produced the world's fastest studio-to-store record 2 hours, 59 minutes, 38 seconds for 'Rosita Rápida,' beating the record previously held by Jack White.
Formed in Geleen in the Netherlands as teenagers, Pablo van de Poel, Luka van de Poel (drums/ vocals) and Robin Piso (Hammond/ Wurlitzer), have carved out a place for themselves as carefree musical adventurers; prolific in the studio and well-worn road-rovers.
"It sounds like a fantasy story," reflects Pablo. "Seventeen years ago, my mind would have never dared to think of all the things we’ve done and places we’ve seen."
April 2025 UK Headline Tour Dates
Tickets available at https://www.dewolff.nu/#/shows
12th April - Stereo, Glasgow
13th April - Deaf Institute, Manchester
15th April - Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
16th April - The Fleece, Bristol
17th April - O2 Academy, Oxford
18th April - Garage, London
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Samantha Fish has released 'Crowd Control (Alternate Version),' a three-song EP of reimagined live tracks; the songs featured are 'Crowd Control,' 'Faster' and 'Better Be Lonely.'
Recorded during a live performance video shoot in Nashville in 2021, all three tracks originally featured on Smantha Fish's Billboard Blues chart-topping album of that year, Faster.
Stream/ listen to all three tracks via https://found.ee/SFCrowdControlAlt
"Making albums is one of my favourite things to do, it’s an opportunity to reinvent myself and my sound," says Fish. "But the stage is where we go to really bring the songs to life. I feel like I connect the most with my audience from the stage. There is something so special about that kind of energy; it’s raw, no frills, no big fixes or edits. It’s what you can do with the moment; I think it’s important to attempt to bottle that"
Recorded during a live performance video shoot in Nashville in 2021, all three tracks originally featured on Smantha Fish's Billboard Blues chart-topping album of that year, Faster.
Stream/ listen to all three tracks via https://found.ee/SFCrowdControlAlt
"Making albums is one of my favourite things to do, it’s an opportunity to reinvent myself and my sound," says Fish. "But the stage is where we go to really bring the songs to life. I feel like I connect the most with my audience from the stage. There is something so special about that kind of energy; it’s raw, no frills, no big fixes or edits. It’s what you can do with the moment; I think it’s important to attempt to bottle that"
Samantha Fish teamed up with Outlaw Country icon Jesse Dayton to record 2023’s collaborative album Death Wish Blues. The Grammy-nominated record debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart and stayed there for three consecutive weeks, marking Fish's fifth chart-topping album.
2024 has been another standout year for the award-winning singer-songwriter-guitarist.
She kicked off with a performance alongside Eric Clapton at his Crossroads tour stop in Los Angeles, followed by a return to the New Orleans Jazz Fest in front of 30,000 fans.
Fish's momentum continued as she joined Slash on his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. tour before opening for the Rolling Stones during the final show of their North American tour.
Her relentless touring schedule continues with more US dates before she joins the Experience Hendrix tour in late September.
In October, Samantha Fish will take her band across the Atlantic for a month of shows in the UK and Europe.
Samantha Fish – Bulletproof UK Tour Dates
(with Special Guests The Zac Schulze Gang)
Birmingham, Town Hall - Friday 4th October
Brighton, Chalk - Saturday 5th October
London, Koko - Sunday 6th October
Norwich, Epic Studios - Monday 7th October
Cardiff, Tramshed - Tuesday 8th October
Bath, Komedia - Wednesday 9th October
Leeds, Project House - Thursday 10th October
Nottingham, Rock City - Friday 11th October
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Saturday 12th October
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Sunday 13th October
Tickets are on sale via:
https://www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.samanthafish.com/tour/
https://www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/36006066F7E6740F (Edinburgh show)
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2024 has been another standout year for the award-winning singer-songwriter-guitarist.
She kicked off with a performance alongside Eric Clapton at his Crossroads tour stop in Los Angeles, followed by a return to the New Orleans Jazz Fest in front of 30,000 fans.
Fish's momentum continued as she joined Slash on his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. tour before opening for the Rolling Stones during the final show of their North American tour.
Her relentless touring schedule continues with more US dates before she joins the Experience Hendrix tour in late September.
In October, Samantha Fish will take her band across the Atlantic for a month of shows in the UK and Europe.
Samantha Fish – Bulletproof UK Tour Dates
(with Special Guests The Zac Schulze Gang)
Birmingham, Town Hall - Friday 4th October
Brighton, Chalk - Saturday 5th October
London, Koko - Sunday 6th October
Norwich, Epic Studios - Monday 7th October
Cardiff, Tramshed - Tuesday 8th October
Bath, Komedia - Wednesday 9th October
Leeds, Project House - Thursday 10th October
Nottingham, Rock City - Friday 11th October
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Saturday 12th October
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Sunday 13th October
Tickets are on sale via:
https://www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.samanthafish.com/tour/
https://www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/36006066F7E6740F (Edinburgh show)
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The Milk Men, fresh – of course – from the success of their recent performance at the Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival in Colne, celebrate that success with brand new single ‘Misty Road.’
The song, which mixes the band’s trademark modern and hooky R’n’B with shades of peak-era Fleetwood Mac and a dash of country-rock, is led by a highly infectious riff that simply refuses to let go.
Stream/ Purchase the single here: https://themilkmen.hearnow.com/misty-road
Of the new single, Milk Men lead singer Jamie Smy says: "It's a song about the difficulties of life without the comfort of religion, and how you can draw comfort and guidance from the memory of people no longer with you. A song to your children to let them know whatever difficulties they face, they will always have your love for them, long after you are gone."
The song, which mixes the band’s trademark modern and hooky R’n’B with shades of peak-era Fleetwood Mac and a dash of country-rock, is led by a highly infectious riff that simply refuses to let go.
Stream/ Purchase the single here: https://themilkmen.hearnow.com/misty-road
Of the new single, Milk Men lead singer Jamie Smy says: "It's a song about the difficulties of life without the comfort of religion, and how you can draw comfort and guidance from the memory of people no longer with you. A song to your children to let them know whatever difficulties they face, they will always have your love for them, long after you are gone."
'Misty Road' is lifted from The Milk Men’s latest, and best to date album, Holy Cow!, which made #1 in both the Amazon Blues Charts and iTunes Blues Charts.
You can purchase Holy Cow! and other merch, including the band’s previous albums, here:
https://www.themilkmenmusic.com/uk-merchandise.html
The Milk Men have garnered a reputation as one of the most dynamic and enjoyable live acts on the circuit.
Comprising former Pirate Mike Roberts on drums, Lloyd Green (son of guitar legend Mick Green) on bass guitar, husky blues-hued singer Jamie Smy and the guitar prowess of Adam Norsworthy (also known for his work with The Mustangs and noted singer-songwriter solo career), The Milk Men bring a wealth of experience and musical pedigree to their latest offering.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, The Milk Men infuse Dr. Feelgood vibe'd R&B with a modern edge, characterized by their signature attack, energy, melody, bags of hooks and a sense of fun.
The band have also earned five nominations at the UK Blues Awards and were finalists in the UK Blues Challenge, solidifying their status as premier purveyors of British R’n’B talent.
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You can purchase Holy Cow! and other merch, including the band’s previous albums, here:
https://www.themilkmenmusic.com/uk-merchandise.html
The Milk Men have garnered a reputation as one of the most dynamic and enjoyable live acts on the circuit.
Comprising former Pirate Mike Roberts on drums, Lloyd Green (son of guitar legend Mick Green) on bass guitar, husky blues-hued singer Jamie Smy and the guitar prowess of Adam Norsworthy (also known for his work with The Mustangs and noted singer-songwriter solo career), The Milk Men bring a wealth of experience and musical pedigree to their latest offering.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, The Milk Men infuse Dr. Feelgood vibe'd R&B with a modern edge, characterized by their signature attack, energy, melody, bags of hooks and a sense of fun.
The band have also earned five nominations at the UK Blues Awards and were finalists in the UK Blues Challenge, solidifying their status as premier purveyors of British R’n’B talent.
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Canadian roots/ southern-tinged rock band The Commoners will release their new single 'Restless' on all streaming platforms on Friday September 13th.
The single, a poignant, life-on-the-road southern country blues, is the title track of their critically acclaimed, and third, studio album Restless, available from: www.thecommoners.ca/store/
The single, a poignant, life-on-the-road southern country blues, is the title track of their critically acclaimed, and third, studio album Restless, available from: www.thecommoners.ca/store/
The release of 'Restless' helps celebrate, and is in support of, The Commoners return to Europe & the UK in November through December as special guests to fellow countrymen, and purveyors of excellent retro-classic rock, The Sheepdogs, who have just released a new 5-track EP entitled Paradise Alone.
The Commoners will then round out the year with a coveted slot at Planet Rockstock Festival on December 1st. Tickets for all concerts are available from: www.thecommoners.ca/tour
The Commoners will then round out the year with a coveted slot at Planet Rockstock Festival on December 1st. Tickets for all concerts are available from: www.thecommoners.ca/tour
The Commoners (Chris Medhurst - lead vocals, guitar; Ross Hayes Citrullo - lead guitar; Miles Evans Branagh - keys; Adam Cannon - drums; Ben Spiller - bass) are experiencing great success with the release of their current album, Restless. The album’s lead singles 'Devil Teasin’ Me,' 'The Way I Am' and 'Shake You Off' all earned spots on Planet Rock’s main playlist.
Acclaim for Restless:
"A strong and purposeful offering from one of the best roots rock bands in the business."
– FabricationsHQ
"An impressive album that is both a tribute to their commitment to reviving a classic era and a step in the direction of solidifying the group as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary rock."
– Blues Rock Review
"An energetic set of classic-sounding, rocking, soulful numbers designed to be played on big stages."
– Blues In Britain
Riding high off the strength of their second album, Find A Better Way, the last two years have been a whirlwind for the band. From a UK tour with Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton in the fall of 2023, to headline & support dates across Europe and Britain this year, The Commoners are a must-see act.
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Acclaim for Restless:
"A strong and purposeful offering from one of the best roots rock bands in the business."
– FabricationsHQ
"An impressive album that is both a tribute to their commitment to reviving a classic era and a step in the direction of solidifying the group as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary rock."
– Blues Rock Review
"An energetic set of classic-sounding, rocking, soulful numbers designed to be played on big stages."
– Blues In Britain
Riding high off the strength of their second album, Find A Better Way, the last two years have been a whirlwind for the band. From a UK tour with Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton in the fall of 2023, to headline & support dates across Europe and Britain this year, The Commoners are a must-see act.
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Following the release of critically acclaimed debut EP At Dawn, touring as special guests to DeWolff and recent appearance at the Just Push Play Festival, up and coming vibrant rock and rollers Silveroller will be out on the road this month for their first headline tour of the UK.
It's also a chance for the fans and audiences to see and hear the new line-up; engaging frontman Jonnie Hodson and Joe Major drummer have since been joined by Joey Smith on guitar and Dylan Evans on bass.
"Joey and Dylan's work and efforts to get us back on our feet have been the driving force that has kept us focused on the task of getting Silveroller ready for our recent appearance at Just Push Play and preparing for our first headline tour," says Jonnie. We can't wait to get back out there and celebrate all that effort by playing our debut record and new music that we are working on"
It's also a chance for the fans and audiences to see and hear the new line-up; engaging frontman Jonnie Hodson and Joe Major drummer have since been joined by Joey Smith on guitar and Dylan Evans on bass.
"Joey and Dylan's work and efforts to get us back on our feet have been the driving force that has kept us focused on the task of getting Silveroller ready for our recent appearance at Just Push Play and preparing for our first headline tour," says Jonnie. We can't wait to get back out there and celebrate all that effort by playing our debut record and new music that we are working on"
Silveroller are hi-energy rock ‘n' roll played with heart and soul, with the kind of low slung, loose hipped swagger you just don't hear anymore. Their songs act as a rallying call for those that believe that the most important thing in life is the freedom to be free, with subtle undertones of protest songs from days gone by.
Purchase/ Download At Dawn EP here: https://silveroller.bandcamp.com/album/at-dawn
"At Dawn is a stand-out statement of intent to bring the best of rock and roll times back, connect, and have a bloody good time doing it" – FabricationsHQ
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Purchase/ Download At Dawn EP here: https://silveroller.bandcamp.com/album/at-dawn
"At Dawn is a stand-out statement of intent to bring the best of rock and roll times back, connect, and have a bloody good time doing it" – FabricationsHQ
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Danish roots-rocking & horns swinging octet Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, currently on a run of European dates, will play two UK shows in October.
The band, led by the deep and resonating voice of frontman Thorbjørn Risager, play the Pleasance Theatre in Edinburgh on the Saturday 12th October followed by an appearance at the Carlisle Rock and Blues Festival on Sunday 13th October.
The band have also released a new single entitled 'Long Time Ago' on the Provogue/Mascot Label Group.
The groove-driven, highly contemporary new single (which follows on from the swampy blues boogie romp of 'Already Gone') can be streamed here: https://lnk.to/Risager
The band, led by the deep and resonating voice of frontman Thorbjørn Risager, play the Pleasance Theatre in Edinburgh on the Saturday 12th October followed by an appearance at the Carlisle Rock and Blues Festival on Sunday 13th October.
The band have also released a new single entitled 'Long Time Ago' on the Provogue/Mascot Label Group.
The groove-driven, highly contemporary new single (which follows on from the swampy blues boogie romp of 'Already Gone') can be streamed here: https://lnk.to/Risager
Long Time Ago is the second release from the band's yet to be announced and much-anticipated new album.
The song offers a fresh, modern take on the blues, channelling the vibes of contemporary giants like The Black Keys and My Baby (or a modern JJ Cale) while staying true to their deep blues roots.
"Long Time Ago is a song about searching," says Thorbjørn Risager. "Everybody’s searching for something. Maybe you’re searching for true love or lost youth, maybe you’re searching for something and you don’t even know what it is."
Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have become one of the most respected names in modern blues. With over 60,000 physical albums sold, 20 million streams and a dedicated following that continues to grow, the band show no signs of slowing down.
Twenty years on since debut album Live 2004, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have picked up numerous awards blazed a trail across the world, captivating crowds with a sound that fuses soul Chicago blues, boogie, and rock 'n' roll with a voice where Ray Charles, Van Morrison and Billy Gibbons meet in the middle.
They've even picked up a fan in Elwood Blues himself, Dan Aykroyd, who hailed their "hot rhythm and blues!"
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The song offers a fresh, modern take on the blues, channelling the vibes of contemporary giants like The Black Keys and My Baby (or a modern JJ Cale) while staying true to their deep blues roots.
"Long Time Ago is a song about searching," says Thorbjørn Risager. "Everybody’s searching for something. Maybe you’re searching for true love or lost youth, maybe you’re searching for something and you don’t even know what it is."
Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have become one of the most respected names in modern blues. With over 60,000 physical albums sold, 20 million streams and a dedicated following that continues to grow, the band show no signs of slowing down.
Twenty years on since debut album Live 2004, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado have picked up numerous awards blazed a trail across the world, captivating crowds with a sound that fuses soul Chicago blues, boogie, and rock 'n' roll with a voice where Ray Charles, Van Morrison and Billy Gibbons meet in the middle.
They've even picked up a fan in Elwood Blues himself, Dan Aykroyd, who hailed their "hot rhythm and blues!"
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TOTO, aka The Dogz of Oz, will undertake a European tour, taking in ten countries, in the spring of 2025.
The band will also play four shows in the UK in February – Glasgow OVO Hydro (1st); Birmingham BP Pulse LIVE (2nd); Manchester AO Arena (4th); London OVO Arena Wembley (5th).
Tickets for the UK dates will be available via general sale commencing Friday 13th September:
https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/toto/
Special Guest across all European and UK dates will be Christopher Cross.
Joining Steve Lukather (guitar/ vocals) and Joseph Williams (vocals) are Greg Phillinganes (keys/ vocals), Shannon Forrest (drums), John Pierce (bass), Warren Ham (horns/ percussion/ vocals) and Dennis Atlas (keys/ vocals).
Dovetailing with the tour announcement is news that TOTO have achieved a milestone accomplishment with their iconic song 'Africa,' which has been certified Diamond (sales of more than 10M in the US) by the RIAA.
Additionally, the band’s first hit 'Hold The Line' has been certified triple platinum, while 'Rosanna' has been certified double platinum.
Cumulative album sales now exceed 50M.
(Individually and collectively, the band’s family tree can be heard on an astonishing five thousand albums; together they amass a sales history of a half a billion albums).
TOTO/ The Dogz of Oz also have plans to return to South America this coming November to play in Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Puerto Rico and a special appearance in Mexico City as one of the headliners of Corona Capital.
Special Guest on the tour, Christopher Cross, burst onto the music scene in 1980 with his self-titled debut album, which won five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, for 'Sailing.'
In a career spanning more than four decades, Cross has gone on to sell more than 12 million albums.
As well as his five Grammys, he has had five Top 10 singles, won an Oscar and a Golden Globe, and been nominated for an Emmy.
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The band will also play four shows in the UK in February – Glasgow OVO Hydro (1st); Birmingham BP Pulse LIVE (2nd); Manchester AO Arena (4th); London OVO Arena Wembley (5th).
Tickets for the UK dates will be available via general sale commencing Friday 13th September:
https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/toto/
Special Guest across all European and UK dates will be Christopher Cross.
Joining Steve Lukather (guitar/ vocals) and Joseph Williams (vocals) are Greg Phillinganes (keys/ vocals), Shannon Forrest (drums), John Pierce (bass), Warren Ham (horns/ percussion/ vocals) and Dennis Atlas (keys/ vocals).
Dovetailing with the tour announcement is news that TOTO have achieved a milestone accomplishment with their iconic song 'Africa,' which has been certified Diamond (sales of more than 10M in the US) by the RIAA.
Additionally, the band’s first hit 'Hold The Line' has been certified triple platinum, while 'Rosanna' has been certified double platinum.
Cumulative album sales now exceed 50M.
(Individually and collectively, the band’s family tree can be heard on an astonishing five thousand albums; together they amass a sales history of a half a billion albums).
TOTO/ The Dogz of Oz also have plans to return to South America this coming November to play in Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Puerto Rico and a special appearance in Mexico City as one of the headliners of Corona Capital.
Special Guest on the tour, Christopher Cross, burst onto the music scene in 1980 with his self-titled debut album, which won five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, for 'Sailing.'
In a career spanning more than four decades, Cross has gone on to sell more than 12 million albums.
As well as his five Grammys, he has had five Top 10 singles, won an Oscar and a Golden Globe, and been nominated for an Emmy.
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Luminary guitarist Steve Hackett, who will bring his Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo tour to the UK for sixteen dates in October (including a prestigious final night show at the Royal Albert Hall) has now sold out ten of those sixteen shows (see tour poster below).
The last tickets remaining are for Portsmouth, Birmingham, Cardiff, Stoke, Nottingham and the Royal Albert Hall show.
Any available tickets canbe obtained via: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett
To mark the 50th anniversary of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway, Steve Hackett is including a selection of highlights from this iconic Genesis album.
Steve Hackett’s guitar-work was woven throughout Genesis’ classic 70’s catalogue of albums.
In recent years he and his outstanding touring line-up of Roger King (keys), Nad Sylvan (vocals), Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, keys) and Craig Blundell (drums) have brought many of these albums back to the concert hall to great acclaim.
Special guest, Amanda Lehmann will be joining the whole of the UK tour on guitar and vocals.
"“I'’m excited that several shows have already sold out for my UK tour Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo. “The whole band are on fire playing this thrilling set. It’s great to have Amanda Lehmann with us for the whole of this tour too, with John Hackett, Steve Rothery and Ray Wilson also joining for the Royal Albert Hall show. I so much look forward to this special celebratory tour!”" - Steve Hackett
The last tickets remaining are for Portsmouth, Birmingham, Cardiff, Stoke, Nottingham and the Royal Albert Hall show.
Any available tickets canbe obtained via: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett
To mark the 50th anniversary of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway, Steve Hackett is including a selection of highlights from this iconic Genesis album.
Steve Hackett’s guitar-work was woven throughout Genesis’ classic 70’s catalogue of albums.
In recent years he and his outstanding touring line-up of Roger King (keys), Nad Sylvan (vocals), Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, keys) and Craig Blundell (drums) have brought many of these albums back to the concert hall to great acclaim.
Special guest, Amanda Lehmann will be joining the whole of the UK tour on guitar and vocals.
"“I'’m excited that several shows have already sold out for my UK tour Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo. “The whole band are on fire playing this thrilling set. It’s great to have Amanda Lehmann with us for the whole of this tour too, with John Hackett, Steve Rothery and Ray Wilson also joining for the Royal Albert Hall show. I so much look forward to this special celebratory tour!”" - Steve Hackett
After leaving Genesis at the end of 1977, Steve Hackett’s solo career, which now spans more than thirty albums, has demonstrated his extraordinary versatility with both electric and acoustic guitar – Hackett is renowned as both an immensely talented and innovative rock musician and a virtuoso classical guitarist and composer, recognised in 2010 when he was inducted into the Rock And Rock Hall Of Fame.
More recently/ post pandemic, Steve Hackett and his band returned to touring with Genesis Revisited : Seconds Out + More! (2021) and Genesis Revisited : Foxtrot At Fifty (2022).
Subsequently, the live album Genesis Revisited : Seconds Out + More!, released in 2022, became Hackett’s most successful-ever live album, reaching #28 in the UK Album Chart and achieving highest-ever chart positions in several European countries.
The live album from the 2022 tour, Foxtrot at Fifty + Hackett Highlights : Live in Brighton was also a well-received success.
In January of this year Steve Hackett released his latest studio album The Circus and The Nightwhale to critical acclaim.
Further great news for the fans is the recently announced reissues and remastered versions of Steve's classical catalogue, available on black and limited edition coloured vinyl, digipack, and CD.
Bay of Kings and Momentum are both available now, with more to come.
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More recently/ post pandemic, Steve Hackett and his band returned to touring with Genesis Revisited : Seconds Out + More! (2021) and Genesis Revisited : Foxtrot At Fifty (2022).
Subsequently, the live album Genesis Revisited : Seconds Out + More!, released in 2022, became Hackett’s most successful-ever live album, reaching #28 in the UK Album Chart and achieving highest-ever chart positions in several European countries.
The live album from the 2022 tour, Foxtrot at Fifty + Hackett Highlights : Live in Brighton was also a well-received success.
In January of this year Steve Hackett released his latest studio album The Circus and The Nightwhale to critical acclaim.
Further great news for the fans is the recently announced reissues and remastered versions of Steve's classical catalogue, available on black and limited edition coloured vinyl, digipack, and CD.
Bay of Kings and Momentum are both available now, with more to come.
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Bulgarian rock band SEVI, fronted by powerful vocalist Svetlana Bliznakova, will play their first UK shows in the UK in November & December.
The band will be performing at Planet Rockstock in Porthcawl, Wales, and the WinterStorm Festival in Troon, Scotland, before a show at The Robin in Wolverhampton (see dates further below).
Additionally, in dovetailing good news, the band’s latest single 'World That Doesn’t Fit' has been entered, and considered, for a 2025 Grammy nomination by the Recording Academy (The 67th Grammy ceremony will air live February 2nd 2025 on CBS, plus live stream; SEVI and their fans will find out in November if the song goes forward for nomination).
Growing quickly in popularity and catching the attention of rock fans all over the world, 'World That Doesn’t Fit,' from latest album Genesis, has been praised by many vloggers and ‘reaction video’ creators on YouTube.
The band will be performing at Planet Rockstock in Porthcawl, Wales, and the WinterStorm Festival in Troon, Scotland, before a show at The Robin in Wolverhampton (see dates further below).
Additionally, in dovetailing good news, the band’s latest single 'World That Doesn’t Fit' has been entered, and considered, for a 2025 Grammy nomination by the Recording Academy (The 67th Grammy ceremony will air live February 2nd 2025 on CBS, plus live stream; SEVI and their fans will find out in November if the song goes forward for nomination).
Growing quickly in popularity and catching the attention of rock fans all over the world, 'World That Doesn’t Fit,' from latest album Genesis, has been praised by many vloggers and ‘reaction video’ creators on YouTube.
SEVI have captured the attention with a contemporary sound led by Svetlana Bliznakova’s vocals and their melodically shaped rock-metal songs, many of which topped the charts on national rock radio stations.
The band have played numerous shows in Europe and are appreciated by the likes of Johnny Gioeli (who guests on a track on Genesis), Thomas Vikstrom (Therion), Jen Majura (Evanesence), Luca Princiotta (Doro Pesch), and classic era Scorpions producer Dieter Dierks.
SEVI have also opened for Europe, Hollywood Vampires, Black Stone Cherry, EPICA, Tom Keifer, Nightwish and Evanesence.
SEVI UK dates:
Thursday 28th November – Graham Harding Stage, Planet Rockstock, Porthcawl, South Wales
Ticket Link: https://www.aloud.com/article/planet-rockstock/
Saturday 30th November – WinterStorm Festival, Concert Hall, Troon, Scotland
Ticket Link: https://www.winterstorm.co.uk/tickets-and-packages-2024
Sunday 1st December – The Robin, Bilston, Wolverhampton
Ticket Link: https://therobin.co.uk/js_events/sevi/
SEVI’s latest album Genesis is out now on CD, Download and Streaming Services
Bandcamp: https://seviband.bandcamp.com/album/genesis
Physical copies via the band’s website: www.seviband.com
SEVI are:
Svetlana Bliznakova - vocals; Rally Velinov - bass; Stone Angel - guitars; Peter Petrov - drums
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The band have played numerous shows in Europe and are appreciated by the likes of Johnny Gioeli (who guests on a track on Genesis), Thomas Vikstrom (Therion), Jen Majura (Evanesence), Luca Princiotta (Doro Pesch), and classic era Scorpions producer Dieter Dierks.
SEVI have also opened for Europe, Hollywood Vampires, Black Stone Cherry, EPICA, Tom Keifer, Nightwish and Evanesence.
SEVI UK dates:
Thursday 28th November – Graham Harding Stage, Planet Rockstock, Porthcawl, South Wales
Ticket Link: https://www.aloud.com/article/planet-rockstock/
Saturday 30th November – WinterStorm Festival, Concert Hall, Troon, Scotland
Ticket Link: https://www.winterstorm.co.uk/tickets-and-packages-2024
Sunday 1st December – The Robin, Bilston, Wolverhampton
Ticket Link: https://therobin.co.uk/js_events/sevi/
SEVI’s latest album Genesis is out now on CD, Download and Streaming Services
Bandcamp: https://seviband.bandcamp.com/album/genesis
Physical copies via the band’s website: www.seviband.com
SEVI are:
Svetlana Bliznakova - vocals; Rally Velinov - bass; Stone Angel - guitars; Peter Petrov - drums
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Photo by Rob Blackham
Blues singer guitarist songwriter Bex Marshall has added an additional show to her run of headline UK dates through September (plus an October show and a January 2025 date).
Marshall and her band will now also play Whistle Binkies in Edinburgh, on Friday 27th September (see full list of dates further below).
Joined by a band of stellar musicians (Toby Baker - keys, Richie Stevens - drums, Rudyard Burley - bass), Bex Marshall will perform a mixture of intimate headline club shows and festival appearances commencing Friday 13th September at Cleveland Bay, Stockton on Tees.
During the dates, Marshall will also feature in a BBC Radio 2 Live session With Cerys Matthews on Monday 16th September.
Bex Marshall's first UK headline tour is in promotion of her latest, critically acclaimed album Fortuna, which was released earlier in the year on Dixiefrog Records.
Fortuna is an album of soulful rock blues with funky undertones, touches of gospel and roots; it was engineered, co-produced and mastered by Nick Hunt (Dave Stewart, Boy George, Placebo, George Clinton), who also worked on Bex Marshall’s previous album House of Mercy.
Fortuna has been nominated in Blues Blast Magazine’s 2024 Rock Blues Album category.
In addition, Bex Marshall’s 63 Hummingbird guitar was featured in the August 2024 edition of Vintage Guitar Magazine.
Marshall and her band will now also play Whistle Binkies in Edinburgh, on Friday 27th September (see full list of dates further below).
Joined by a band of stellar musicians (Toby Baker - keys, Richie Stevens - drums, Rudyard Burley - bass), Bex Marshall will perform a mixture of intimate headline club shows and festival appearances commencing Friday 13th September at Cleveland Bay, Stockton on Tees.
During the dates, Marshall will also feature in a BBC Radio 2 Live session With Cerys Matthews on Monday 16th September.
Bex Marshall's first UK headline tour is in promotion of her latest, critically acclaimed album Fortuna, which was released earlier in the year on Dixiefrog Records.
Fortuna is an album of soulful rock blues with funky undertones, touches of gospel and roots; it was engineered, co-produced and mastered by Nick Hunt (Dave Stewart, Boy George, Placebo, George Clinton), who also worked on Bex Marshall’s previous album House of Mercy.
Fortuna has been nominated in Blues Blast Magazine’s 2024 Rock Blues Album category.
In addition, Bex Marshall’s 63 Hummingbird guitar was featured in the August 2024 edition of Vintage Guitar Magazine.
Bex Marshall – Headline UK Tour Dates
Friday 13th September – Cleveland Bay, Stockton on Tees
Sunday 15th September – Darlington Blues Festival, Main Stage (Supporting The Blockheads)
Monday 16th September - BBC Radio 2 Live Session With Cerys Matthews
Wednesday 18th September – The Water Rats, London
Sunday 22nd September – Hot Box, Chelmsford, Essex
Thursday 26th September – The Cluny, Newcastle upon Tyne
Friday 27th September – (New Date) Whistle Binkies, Edinburgh
Saturday 28th September – Barnoldswick Music and Arts Centre, Barnoldswick
Sunday 29th September –Temperance Bar, Leamington Spa
Monday 30th September – Midnight Special Blues Club, The Cabin, Camberley, Surrey
Tuesday 22nd October – The Wrotham Arms, Broadstairs. Kent
Friday 17th January – Wemsfest 2025, St James’ Church Parish Hall, Emsworth, Hampshire
Bex Marshall website: http://www.bexmarshall.com
"Bex Marshall commands recognition with her spit and sawdust vocals and fluid resonator guitar licks."
– Classic Rock Magazine
"Bex Marshal has been keeping her powder dry for too long, but Fortuna is packed full and it fires straight and true" – Blues In Britain Magazine
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Friday 13th September – Cleveland Bay, Stockton on Tees
Sunday 15th September – Darlington Blues Festival, Main Stage (Supporting The Blockheads)
Monday 16th September - BBC Radio 2 Live Session With Cerys Matthews
Wednesday 18th September – The Water Rats, London
Sunday 22nd September – Hot Box, Chelmsford, Essex
Thursday 26th September – The Cluny, Newcastle upon Tyne
Friday 27th September – (New Date) Whistle Binkies, Edinburgh
Saturday 28th September – Barnoldswick Music and Arts Centre, Barnoldswick
Sunday 29th September –Temperance Bar, Leamington Spa
Monday 30th September – Midnight Special Blues Club, The Cabin, Camberley, Surrey
Tuesday 22nd October – The Wrotham Arms, Broadstairs. Kent
Friday 17th January – Wemsfest 2025, St James’ Church Parish Hall, Emsworth, Hampshire
Bex Marshall website: http://www.bexmarshall.com
"Bex Marshall commands recognition with her spit and sawdust vocals and fluid resonator guitar licks."
– Classic Rock Magazine
"Bex Marshal has been keeping her powder dry for too long, but Fortuna is packed full and it fires straight and true" – Blues In Britain Magazine
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South-east London based James O'Hurley, a modern-day troubadour who mixes a contemporary sound with blues, folk, nu-country and dark Americana influences, has released a new single entitled 'Maria.'
Of the new single and its meaning, James O'Hurley says "'Maria' started life as an idea based around a girl I knew who moved to Camden and just lived for the weekend. She didn't hold back how she felt about people and was a tough, confident, celestial, angelic, perhaps somewhat flawed, North London girl.
I always wanted to pay tribute to her and how, as a friend, she just needed someone to look out for her, as her magnetic energy would attract the wrong types of 'wolves and thieves'.
We didn't get to say goodbye to her all those years ago but in a brief but beautiful life, 'Maria' was a shining light of pure joy! I know I will smile every time I play this song, which pretty much wrote itself.
For You, Cassie x"
Of the new single and its meaning, James O'Hurley says "'Maria' started life as an idea based around a girl I knew who moved to Camden and just lived for the weekend. She didn't hold back how she felt about people and was a tough, confident, celestial, angelic, perhaps somewhat flawed, North London girl.
I always wanted to pay tribute to her and how, as a friend, she just needed someone to look out for her, as her magnetic energy would attract the wrong types of 'wolves and thieves'.
We didn't get to say goodbye to her all those years ago but in a brief but beautiful life, 'Maria' was a shining light of pure joy! I know I will smile every time I play this song, which pretty much wrote itself.
For You, Cassie x"
'Maria' follows in the footseteps of the darkly impacting 'Evil' and the melodic, modern Americana of 'Red.'
The latter reached across radio stations globally and achieved streaming stats of over 25k; no small feat for an independant singer-songwriter.
All three singles will feature on James O’Hurley’s forthcoming debut album, which at one point looked like never happening, given that only 12 months ago O’Hurley was ready to hang up his guitar and walk away from music forever...
After a decade of touring and performing in various different bands and working in the live events industry, James O’Hurley was at a crossroads, musically and personally.
However, in one final act of love for the instrument that had been his companion for most of his life, he "just started playing and let what was in me come out."
In a single session he penned two songs, 'Wolves' and 'Evil.' The following day he sat down with the guitar again and more songs flowed out of him.
Now, with the backing of Top Floor Music, formed by Pete Briley (of 'Heavygrass' trio The Outlaw Orchestra) and Mike Hughes with a Mission Statement to ensure independent artists can remain sustainable as just that – fully independent – James O’Hurley should finally realise his artistic potential.
Praise for James O'Hurley:
"Atmospheric rather than flashy... the kind of songs you can imagine soundtracking something disconcerting on film or TV." - Rockfiend
"No such thing as dark acousticana, nor even such as word as acousticana? Well, there is now."
- FabricationsHQ
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The latter reached across radio stations globally and achieved streaming stats of over 25k; no small feat for an independant singer-songwriter.
All three singles will feature on James O’Hurley’s forthcoming debut album, which at one point looked like never happening, given that only 12 months ago O’Hurley was ready to hang up his guitar and walk away from music forever...
After a decade of touring and performing in various different bands and working in the live events industry, James O’Hurley was at a crossroads, musically and personally.
However, in one final act of love for the instrument that had been his companion for most of his life, he "just started playing and let what was in me come out."
In a single session he penned two songs, 'Wolves' and 'Evil.' The following day he sat down with the guitar again and more songs flowed out of him.
Now, with the backing of Top Floor Music, formed by Pete Briley (of 'Heavygrass' trio The Outlaw Orchestra) and Mike Hughes with a Mission Statement to ensure independent artists can remain sustainable as just that – fully independent – James O’Hurley should finally realise his artistic potential.
Praise for James O'Hurley:
"Atmospheric rather than flashy... the kind of songs you can imagine soundtracking something disconcerting on film or TV." - Rockfiend
"No such thing as dark acousticana, nor even such as word as acousticana? Well, there is now."
- FabricationsHQ
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Montreal’s retro rock 'n' roll band The Damn Truth have released a new single entitled 'Love Outta Luck.'
The barnstorming rocker is the second single to be lifted from their highly anticipated, and self-titled, fourth studio album, to be released during the first quarter of 2025.
You can stream 'Love Outta Luck' on all DSP’s at https://music.spectramusique.com/loveouttaluck
The new single coincides with The Damn Truth’s first Canadian tour in five years (due, in large part, to constantly touring the UK & Europe).
The band’s home soil dates will be followed by a return to the UK in November for seven shows including festival appearances at WinterStorm and Planet Rockstock.
Tickets for all shows (listed further below) are available from www.thedamntruth.com
The barnstorming rocker is the second single to be lifted from their highly anticipated, and self-titled, fourth studio album, to be released during the first quarter of 2025.
You can stream 'Love Outta Luck' on all DSP’s at https://music.spectramusique.com/loveouttaluck
The new single coincides with The Damn Truth’s first Canadian tour in five years (due, in large part, to constantly touring the UK & Europe).
The band’s home soil dates will be followed by a return to the UK in November for seven shows including festival appearances at WinterStorm and Planet Rockstock.
Tickets for all shows (listed further below) are available from www.thedamntruth.com
Fronted by singer/guitarist Lee-la Baum, The Damn Truth’s music celebrates a kaleidoscope of modern re-imaginings of classic/ psychedelic rock ideals.
The forthcoming album also marks the next level in the band’s relationship with renowned producer Bob Rock (Metallica, Motley Crue, Skid Row, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi).
Rock pushed the band in all areas of playing, writing, and refining The Damn Truth
signature sound, most evident in the power of Lee-la Baum’s vocals.
The singer recalls the Bob Rock phone call that started it all:
"3am in the heart of London. The adrenaline from an epic show supporting Glen Hughes
still courses through my veins as I collapse into my hotel room. Just as I start to unwind, my
phone jolts me awake. It’s Bob Rock! The same Bob Rock I’d sent our demos to just hours
earlier. Anticipation fills the air as I answer the call.
‘Hello?’
‘Hi there, it’s Bob!’
‘How are you, Bob?’ I reply, barely able to contain my excitement.
‘I’m great! I listened to the new songs first thing this morning and I just had to call you right
away. It’s awesome! Probably the best songs you guys have ever written. I’m excited to see
you guys in a few weeks. Let’s make a record!’"
The forthcoming album also marks the next level in the band’s relationship with renowned producer Bob Rock (Metallica, Motley Crue, Skid Row, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi).
Rock pushed the band in all areas of playing, writing, and refining The Damn Truth
signature sound, most evident in the power of Lee-la Baum’s vocals.
The singer recalls the Bob Rock phone call that started it all:
"3am in the heart of London. The adrenaline from an epic show supporting Glen Hughes
still courses through my veins as I collapse into my hotel room. Just as I start to unwind, my
phone jolts me awake. It’s Bob Rock! The same Bob Rock I’d sent our demos to just hours
earlier. Anticipation fills the air as I answer the call.
‘Hello?’
‘Hi there, it’s Bob!’
‘How are you, Bob?’ I reply, barely able to contain my excitement.
‘I’m great! I listened to the new songs first thing this morning and I just had to call you right
away. It’s awesome! Probably the best songs you guys have ever written. I’m excited to see
you guys in a few weeks. Let’s make a record!’"
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Metallic sheened French alt-rockers Storm Orchestra, who have been making a name for themselves in the underground Paris music scene over the last few years, have released a new single entitled 'Drummer.'
The new single, which follows on from the shimmerig metallic alt-rock of 'Bright Soul,' can be streamed here: https://lnk.to/stormorchestra
Of the song, singer-guitarist Maxime Goudard says, "This is a fun one we wrote a few years ago.
It's inspired by some antics and stories from friends, and our own drummer, Loïc Fouquet. The drum parts were written with a simple take: we want this song to be the first one you want to learn on drums!
It's really fun to play, with a bit of challenge on the bridge though!
"We also wanted to do something around drums that shows the more fun aspect of our music, and our personalities. It's a way to pay tribute to some of the greatest rock drummers that have influenced us, and the best excuse to have Loïc wearing wigs! We took it seriously though, and Loïc tried to mimic the playing style of his favourite drummers."
The new single, which follows on from the shimmerig metallic alt-rock of 'Bright Soul,' can be streamed here: https://lnk.to/stormorchestra
Of the song, singer-guitarist Maxime Goudard says, "This is a fun one we wrote a few years ago.
It's inspired by some antics and stories from friends, and our own drummer, Loïc Fouquet. The drum parts were written with a simple take: we want this song to be the first one you want to learn on drums!
It's really fun to play, with a bit of challenge on the bridge though!
"We also wanted to do something around drums that shows the more fun aspect of our music, and our personalities. It's a way to pay tribute to some of the greatest rock drummers that have influenced us, and the best excuse to have Loïc wearing wigs! We took it seriously though, and Loïc tried to mimic the playing style of his favourite drummers."
Having known each other since childhood, Maxime Goudard (vocals, guitar), Adrien Richard (bass) and Loïc Fouquet (drums) are bound together by the struggles and triumphs that have taken them to this moment.
"First and foremost, we stand for packing people in a room and making them have the best time, altogether, with loud music. But we also have social concerns, and stand for equality, the environment and the voices of the people" says the band.
Such themes were explored on their debut album What A Time To Be Alive.
Released in 2023 when still an unsigned band, Storm Orchestra went on to pick up an impressive combined 4M streams, ending the year in a triumphant fashion as the Artist to Watch in 2024 by Spotify France, celebrities in the Top of the Rock: Best of 2023, Deezer's 2023 Rock playlists and, now, signed to the Mascot Label.
"Signing to Mascot is the biggest opportunity in our career. Making music professionally has been a dream and a goal for many years. In the last few months, Mascot has been an incredible supportive force to help us make new music and reach new goals."
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"First and foremost, we stand for packing people in a room and making them have the best time, altogether, with loud music. But we also have social concerns, and stand for equality, the environment and the voices of the people" says the band.
Such themes were explored on their debut album What A Time To Be Alive.
Released in 2023 when still an unsigned band, Storm Orchestra went on to pick up an impressive combined 4M streams, ending the year in a triumphant fashion as the Artist to Watch in 2024 by Spotify France, celebrities in the Top of the Rock: Best of 2023, Deezer's 2023 Rock playlists and, now, signed to the Mascot Label.
"Signing to Mascot is the biggest opportunity in our career. Making music professionally has been a dream and a goal for many years. In the last few months, Mascot has been an incredible supportive force to help us make new music and reach new goals."
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Heavygrass exponents The Outlaw Orchestra will release their long-awaited third full-length studio album, La Familia on October 18th.
The new album, which has been preceded by the singles 'Bag of Bones,' 'Born To Be a Thief' and 'Holy Ground,' teeters a little more towards the classic rock sound than the country band many have mistaken them for in the past.
La Familia has also seen a change of studio and production for the band, with Rogue Studios’ very own Alessio Garavello at the forefront of production engineering.
Indeed, with Garavello’s exceptional ear for music and experiences as a touring musician with A New Tomorrow and vocalist for Dragon Force, this was never going to be a country album, as singer/ guitarist Dave Roux explains:
"La Familia has a harder rock edge to it, but also a lot of subtlety, mixed with a little angst and rebellion. It’s taken twelve months to come together, but it’s still a photograph in time of where you were and the mindset you were in; this album reflects this feeling."
Alessio Garavello’s role, along with drummer Ryan Smith’s love of complex percussion and rhythm parts, Dave Roux’s latin rock feel, and multi-instrumentalist Pete Briley’s plethora of unusual instruments (which brings the 'Orchestra' of these musical Outlaws to the fore), have all combined to take the band’s sound a little south of the border.
There are also echoes of 70s rock influences such as The Who, Santana, and Fleetwood Mac, but the essence remains unmistakably The Outlaw Orchestra.
And as regards the album’s title?
"In nutshell it describes all live music fans. It is a salute to those who go to live shows, play an instrument, own a venue, the soundmen and roadies who help the musician get their sound and setup.
It’s all of us who see each other every weekend across the country, and fellow bands we see on the road; one big family who love the camaraderie. La Familia."
A fourth single, 'Rotten Apples' (a quintessential Outlaw Orchestra number, with cigar box guitars providing the essence of the band's 'heavygrass' roots rock 'n' roll), will be released concurrently with the album as a dovetailing promotion.
The Outlaw Orchestra are renowned for bringing highly energetic performances to live stages across the UK, including notable festival appearance including WinterStorm, Planet Rockstock and Maid of Stone, to name but three.
The band has also amassed a range of followers from the Stetson-wearing country crowd to leather-clad rock fans - the latter due, in so small part, to their decidedly Outlaw take of of Motörhead's 'Iron Fist.'
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The new album, which has been preceded by the singles 'Bag of Bones,' 'Born To Be a Thief' and 'Holy Ground,' teeters a little more towards the classic rock sound than the country band many have mistaken them for in the past.
La Familia has also seen a change of studio and production for the band, with Rogue Studios’ very own Alessio Garavello at the forefront of production engineering.
Indeed, with Garavello’s exceptional ear for music and experiences as a touring musician with A New Tomorrow and vocalist for Dragon Force, this was never going to be a country album, as singer/ guitarist Dave Roux explains:
"La Familia has a harder rock edge to it, but also a lot of subtlety, mixed with a little angst and rebellion. It’s taken twelve months to come together, but it’s still a photograph in time of where you were and the mindset you were in; this album reflects this feeling."
Alessio Garavello’s role, along with drummer Ryan Smith’s love of complex percussion and rhythm parts, Dave Roux’s latin rock feel, and multi-instrumentalist Pete Briley’s plethora of unusual instruments (which brings the 'Orchestra' of these musical Outlaws to the fore), have all combined to take the band’s sound a little south of the border.
There are also echoes of 70s rock influences such as The Who, Santana, and Fleetwood Mac, but the essence remains unmistakably The Outlaw Orchestra.
And as regards the album’s title?
"In nutshell it describes all live music fans. It is a salute to those who go to live shows, play an instrument, own a venue, the soundmen and roadies who help the musician get their sound and setup.
It’s all of us who see each other every weekend across the country, and fellow bands we see on the road; one big family who love the camaraderie. La Familia."
A fourth single, 'Rotten Apples' (a quintessential Outlaw Orchestra number, with cigar box guitars providing the essence of the band's 'heavygrass' roots rock 'n' roll), will be released concurrently with the album as a dovetailing promotion.
The Outlaw Orchestra are renowned for bringing highly energetic performances to live stages across the UK, including notable festival appearance including WinterStorm, Planet Rockstock and Maid of Stone, to name but three.
The band has also amassed a range of followers from the Stetson-wearing country crowd to leather-clad rock fans - the latter due, in so small part, to their decidedly Outlaw take of of Motörhead's 'Iron Fist.'
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Award-winning and critically acclaimed Canadian blues rock "one-man band," guitarist and singer-songwriter, Steve Hill, will release his brand new studio album Hanging On A String on Friday 1st November. The album is available to pre-order from http://lnk.to/stevehill
The lead-off single from the album, 'World Gone Insane' will be available on all streaming platforms from Friday 6th September. Pre-save the single here https://lnk.to/WGI
Raw, live and real, 'World Gone Insane' is an angry rebuttal to social media's alternate truths and the lack of meaning in "a world that's getting harder to understand, leaving you wanting to disconnect, get rid of every technological tool and go live in a cabin in the woods..."
The lead-off single from the album, 'World Gone Insane' will be available on all streaming platforms from Friday 6th September. Pre-save the single here https://lnk.to/WGI
Raw, live and real, 'World Gone Insane' is an angry rebuttal to social media's alternate truths and the lack of meaning in "a world that's getting harder to understand, leaving you wanting to disconnect, get rid of every technological tool and go live in a cabin in the woods..."
Recorded in Los Angeles at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606, produced by 10 time Grammy Award winner Darrell Thorp (Foo Fighters, Radiohead, Paul McCartney) and Brian Loudenslager, and mastered by 6 time Grammy winner Michael Romanowski, Steve Hill’s latest batch of songs are based on a hard working musician's own successes and failures, and the life lessons learned from them.
Even though the songs on Hanging on A String weren’t written with a concept in mind, it feels like a concept album, where the protagonist is the musician, Steve Hill, delivering themes that are both very personal and universal.
It's about a one-man blues-rock band trying to make a living and dealing with accidents and bumps in the road and forging ahead no matter what;, it's about the life of a musician as it gets harder to tour in these post-pandemic times, hanging on a string, whilst having to deal with new challenges like being replaced by artificial intelligence.
Example of those challenges?
The album starts with the title track and the line "Woke up in a house on fire," which is a factual event – Steve had just finished a tour in Western Canada and was sleeping in a friend's basement when he woke up surrounded by smoke.
Like the song says, "I got my buddy out of there. Good thing I generally have a hard time sleeping…!"
Even though the songs on Hanging on A String weren’t written with a concept in mind, it feels like a concept album, where the protagonist is the musician, Steve Hill, delivering themes that are both very personal and universal.
It's about a one-man blues-rock band trying to make a living and dealing with accidents and bumps in the road and forging ahead no matter what;, it's about the life of a musician as it gets harder to tour in these post-pandemic times, hanging on a string, whilst having to deal with new challenges like being replaced by artificial intelligence.
Example of those challenges?
The album starts with the title track and the line "Woke up in a house on fire," which is a factual event – Steve had just finished a tour in Western Canada and was sleeping in a friend's basement when he woke up surrounded by smoke.
Like the song says, "I got my buddy out of there. Good thing I generally have a hard time sleeping…!"
Photo by Jean-Sébastien Désilets
Flash forward to a few days later and Brian Loudenslager has booked Darrell Thorp and the Foo Fighter's Studio 606 to record Steve Hill's next album.
Steve then had 90 days prior to heading for the studio to write an album's worth of material, and learn how to play it live (he recorded every instrument, at the same time, in the studio).
But those bumps in the road continued – literally…
Flying into LA, Steve’s friend, fellow musician and songwriting partner Johnny Pilgrim picked him up at the airport, only to be hit by a car 20 minutes later.
Broken ribs postponed the recording, but perfecting the songs for another three months paid dividends – with only six days to record the album, he did it in five, with no more than three takes required for each song (many are first or second takes).
"This is the music I’ve been wanting to do and never thought I could ever perform as a one-man band. Raw, in your face and straight to the point. This record is about perseverance, resilience in the face of adversity and my never-ending love for guitar music. I truly believe this to be my best work so far and I hope you enjoy it, too." – Steve Hill
A concept album by accident perhaps, but what is no accident is just how raw, real and relevant Hanging On A String is.
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Steve then had 90 days prior to heading for the studio to write an album's worth of material, and learn how to play it live (he recorded every instrument, at the same time, in the studio).
But those bumps in the road continued – literally…
Flying into LA, Steve’s friend, fellow musician and songwriting partner Johnny Pilgrim picked him up at the airport, only to be hit by a car 20 minutes later.
Broken ribs postponed the recording, but perfecting the songs for another three months paid dividends – with only six days to record the album, he did it in five, with no more than three takes required for each song (many are first or second takes).
"This is the music I’ve been wanting to do and never thought I could ever perform as a one-man band. Raw, in your face and straight to the point. This record is about perseverance, resilience in the face of adversity and my never-ending love for guitar music. I truly believe this to be my best work so far and I hope you enjoy it, too." – Steve Hill
A concept album by accident perhaps, but what is no accident is just how raw, real and relevant Hanging On A String is.
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Kentucky based rockers Mojo Thunder have released a new single entitled 'Coming Back To You.'
The uplifting, contemporary rock number is the fourth to be lifted as a single from brand-new studio album The Infinite Hope, which can be purchased on vinyl, CD & digital here.
'Coming Back To You' is a fun, funkily styled number that lyrically reads like a love letter written from a distance, with honest conviction.
There's a lot of tropes in rock and roll where artists indulge in this toxic machismo, says the band's lead guitarist Bryson Willogughy, who also wrote the song. "But I wanted to say something real. Something that showed my relationship the respect it deserves, and above all else, was truthful."
The uplifting, contemporary rock number is the fourth to be lifted as a single from brand-new studio album The Infinite Hope, which can be purchased on vinyl, CD & digital here.
'Coming Back To You' is a fun, funkily styled number that lyrically reads like a love letter written from a distance, with honest conviction.
There's a lot of tropes in rock and roll where artists indulge in this toxic machismo, says the band's lead guitarist Bryson Willogughy, who also wrote the song. "But I wanted to say something real. Something that showed my relationship the respect it deserves, and above all else, was truthful."
The Infinite Hope, produced by Duane Lundy (Ringo Starr, Justin Wells, Sturgill Simpson), explores topics such as activism, tragedy, the dark side of the American south, love, and the search for truth.
Further, having cultivated a community built around acceptance, there is a sense of belonging in the music and, as the album title suggests, a call for hope.
To support the album, the band performed a select run of Kentucky concerts leading up to its release; they will embark on a month-long European tour starting on the 20th September.
Full list of dates and tickets from: www.mojothunder.com
Mojo Thunder are Bryson Willoughby (lead guitar), Sean Sullivan (vocals, guitar), Andrew Brockman (bass) and Zac Shoopman (drums).
With influences that range from Kings of Leon and the Black Crowes to an unwavering respect for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin, the band hit the road in 2018 with live performances that quickly gained attention.
Following two singles and an EP entitled Loose Lips, the band released their full length debut, Hymns from the Electric Church, in 2021 ("a sun-dappled potpourri of everything good and true about American rock 'n' roll, from hard rock to soulful blues, from breezy cosmic Americana to summertime arena-rock anthems"
– Classic Rock Magazine)
In 2023 the band released the live album Alive, with Friends. It features guest appearances, extended versions of songs spanning from the first single through to Hymns from the Electric Church, and a couple of choice covers, including a hi-energy Who medley ('Baba O'Riley'/'Who Are You').
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Further, having cultivated a community built around acceptance, there is a sense of belonging in the music and, as the album title suggests, a call for hope.
To support the album, the band performed a select run of Kentucky concerts leading up to its release; they will embark on a month-long European tour starting on the 20th September.
Full list of dates and tickets from: www.mojothunder.com
Mojo Thunder are Bryson Willoughby (lead guitar), Sean Sullivan (vocals, guitar), Andrew Brockman (bass) and Zac Shoopman (drums).
With influences that range from Kings of Leon and the Black Crowes to an unwavering respect for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin, the band hit the road in 2018 with live performances that quickly gained attention.
Following two singles and an EP entitled Loose Lips, the band released their full length debut, Hymns from the Electric Church, in 2021 ("a sun-dappled potpourri of everything good and true about American rock 'n' roll, from hard rock to soulful blues, from breezy cosmic Americana to summertime arena-rock anthems"
– Classic Rock Magazine)
In 2023 the band released the live album Alive, with Friends. It features guest appearances, extended versions of songs spanning from the first single through to Hymns from the Electric Church, and a couple of choice covers, including a hi-energy Who medley ('Baba O'Riley'/'Who Are You').
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RUSHfest Scotland, the annual fan convention that celebrates the music and legacy of rock giants RUSH while ensuring all profits go to charity (over £134,000 donated since 2014), will shortly release the latest, and fifth, of their Tributes series of albums.
Honouring the memory of drummer Neil Peart, who sadly passed in January 2020, the Tributes – Songs For Neil album series (approved by the Estate of Neil Peart) feature a vast array of artists and bands covering Rush songs from across the band’s entire career, many with different arrangements or fresh approaches to classic songs and deeper cuts.
The results make for true collector’s items for the Rush faithful as well as ensuring further charitable donations to a deserving cause – all profits go to FundingNeuro.com, who seek treatments and cures for all neurological conditions and cancers.
Songs for Neil Volume 5, produced by Steve Brown of premier Rush tribute band Moving pictures, is set for release on 12th September, Neil Peart's birthday.
Advance orders can be placed now via Bandcamp for the digital download of the album, limited edition double turquoise vinyl, double CD and art prints.
As has been the case with all previous releases, the cover imagery is by long-time Rush artist Hugh Syme, who always excels himself in these Tributes endeavours.
For more details about the album and a link to stream the first/ taster track (a gorgeously atmospheric arrangement of the poignant 'Bravado' by John Mitchell and Leoni Jane Kennedy) head to the Bandcamp page or www.RUSHfestScotland.co.uk/album, where you can read more about all previous Tributes releases (you can also pre-order from that webpage via email).
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Honouring the memory of drummer Neil Peart, who sadly passed in January 2020, the Tributes – Songs For Neil album series (approved by the Estate of Neil Peart) feature a vast array of artists and bands covering Rush songs from across the band’s entire career, many with different arrangements or fresh approaches to classic songs and deeper cuts.
The results make for true collector’s items for the Rush faithful as well as ensuring further charitable donations to a deserving cause – all profits go to FundingNeuro.com, who seek treatments and cures for all neurological conditions and cancers.
Songs for Neil Volume 5, produced by Steve Brown of premier Rush tribute band Moving pictures, is set for release on 12th September, Neil Peart's birthday.
Advance orders can be placed now via Bandcamp for the digital download of the album, limited edition double turquoise vinyl, double CD and art prints.
As has been the case with all previous releases, the cover imagery is by long-time Rush artist Hugh Syme, who always excels himself in these Tributes endeavours.
For more details about the album and a link to stream the first/ taster track (a gorgeously atmospheric arrangement of the poignant 'Bravado' by John Mitchell and Leoni Jane Kennedy) head to the Bandcamp page or www.RUSHfestScotland.co.uk/album, where you can read more about all previous Tributes releases (you can also pre-order from that webpage via email).
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Following the release of Live at The Scala Theatre earlier this year, blues troubadour Eric Bibb is set to follow that intimate acoustic performance with his latest studio album, In The Real World.
Recorded at Peter Gabriel’s iconic Real World Studios and produced, arranged and mixed by Glen Scott, the new album is a vivid representation of Bibb's musical and personal evolution.
"There’s a wholeness about In The Real World that deeply moves me," Bibb reflects. "It feels like Glen Scott and I have reached a milestone on our collaborative journey.
Musically, the album feels like a self-portrait because it truly represents my influences."
In The Real World wil be released on October 18th; the first single from the album, 'Roll On Buddy,' is available now.
Recorded at Peter Gabriel’s iconic Real World Studios and produced, arranged and mixed by Glen Scott, the new album is a vivid representation of Bibb's musical and personal evolution.
"There’s a wholeness about In The Real World that deeply moves me," Bibb reflects. "It feels like Glen Scott and I have reached a milestone on our collaborative journey.
Musically, the album feels like a self-portrait because it truly represents my influences."
In The Real World wil be released on October 18th; the first single from the album, 'Roll On Buddy,' is available now.
With a career spanning five decades, three Grammy nominations and numerous Blues Foundation awards, Eric Bibb has solidified his legacy as a legendary figure in the blues and roots genre.
"In The Real World is deeply rooted in the storytelling tradition of the blues. It really tells me where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’m headed," Bibb explains. "Thematically, it’s about the you-me-we connection. It’s about the world we’ve created for ourselves and the world we long for."
As regard the recording of the album, Bibb says "If I had to describe the sessions in one word, it would be 'flow.' What’s particularly enjoyable for me, listening to this album, is the prominence of my guitar.
Glen Scott’s arrangements and production are a joy to hear. All the musicians involved made great contributions. Robbie McIntosh’s outstanding playing, in particular, is a treat. Every track is a favorite, and the duet with Lily James (the album's final track, 'Victory Voices') is a gift to my soul."
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"In The Real World is deeply rooted in the storytelling tradition of the blues. It really tells me where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’m headed," Bibb explains. "Thematically, it’s about the you-me-we connection. It’s about the world we’ve created for ourselves and the world we long for."
As regard the recording of the album, Bibb says "If I had to describe the sessions in one word, it would be 'flow.' What’s particularly enjoyable for me, listening to this album, is the prominence of my guitar.
Glen Scott’s arrangements and production are a joy to hear. All the musicians involved made great contributions. Robbie McIntosh’s outstanding playing, in particular, is a treat. Every track is a favorite, and the duet with Lily James (the album's final track, 'Victory Voices') is a gift to my soul."
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Robert Jon & The Wreck, the outstanding southern/ roots rock & roll collective from Southern California, will be back in the UK in November to support recently released, excellent new album, Red Moon Rising.
You can read FabricationsHQ's review of the album here.
Tickets for the shows (see poster below) are on sale from: ROBERTJONANDTHEWRECK.COM, GIGANTIC
and ALTTICKETS.COM
The band have also released a brand new single from the album.
'Rager' is Robert Jon & The Wreck's most intense and rock-driven offering yet, as lead guitarist Henry James Schneekluth expands upon:
"What started as a loose, improvised jam turned into an atomic bomb of sonic fury! This track was inspired by the glory days of 70s hard rock and features heavy, gritty organ & synth as well as a funky and raucous drum groove & bass line. We present to you a new level of heaviness to get wrecked to - Rager!"
You can read FabricationsHQ's review of the album here.
Tickets for the shows (see poster below) are on sale from: ROBERTJONANDTHEWRECK.COM, GIGANTIC
and ALTTICKETS.COM
The band have also released a brand new single from the album.
'Rager' is Robert Jon & The Wreck's most intense and rock-driven offering yet, as lead guitarist Henry James Schneekluth expands upon:
"What started as a loose, improvised jam turned into an atomic bomb of sonic fury! This track was inspired by the glory days of 70s hard rock and features heavy, gritty organ & synth as well as a funky and raucous drum groove & bass line. We present to you a new level of heaviness to get wrecked to - Rager!"
Since forming in 2011, Robert Jon & The Wreck – Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, backing vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar, backing vocals), Warren Murrel (bass) and recently joining as an official member, Jake Abernathie (keys) – have consistently grown, both in musical prowess and fanbase.
In addition to the release of last years's studio album Ride Into The Light, 2023 also saw RJTW release their first-ever concert film, Live At The Ancienne Belgique - the live CD/DVD set captured the Wreck amid their longest-ever tour (67 performances in 75 days across 9 countries).
In addition to the release of last years's studio album Ride Into The Light, 2023 also saw RJTW release their first-ever concert film, Live At The Ancienne Belgique - the live CD/DVD set captured the Wreck amid their longest-ever tour (67 performances in 75 days across 9 countries).
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Italian progressive alt-rock/metal band KLOGR will release their new album Fractured Realities via Zeta Factory on 31st October.
The new release, which has been preceded by the singles 'The Twisted Art' (feat. Albert Eno) and 'Unspoken Words,' ties in with their special guest appearance supporting Evergrey on their Emptiness Over Europe tour through November and December. The tour includes seven UK shows (see dates further below).
The new release, which has been preceded by the singles 'The Twisted Art' (feat. Albert Eno) and 'Unspoken Words,' ties in with their special guest appearance supporting Evergrey on their Emptiness Over Europe tour through November and December. The tour includes seven UK shows (see dates further below).
After a seven-year hiatus following last album Keystone, KLOGR return with Fractured Realities.
Initiated during the lockdown, the album faced several delays due to personal challenges among the band members, but was finally completed in June 2024.
Fractured Realities also marks a new chapter for the band, characterised by resilience and innovation, as guitarist and front man Gabriele "Rusty" Rustichelli explains:
"It wasn’t easy to get back on the scene after producing our album Keystone with David Bottrill; the pandemic forced us to pause everything. Once things returned to normal, additional challenges emerged that further slowed our work. Fortunately, we managed to restart, refocus, and complete the studio work.
Teamwork was crucial in finishing the production and delivering what I consider to be the band’s best album."
Fractured Realities sees KLOGR evolving their sound by incorporating electronics and synthesizers, propelling their alt rock/ metal sound into a contemporary domain.
The album is a journey through various emotional challenges and disorders fuelled by a society more focused on profit than on the physical and mental well-being of individuals.
From singles 'The Twisted Art' and 'Unspoken Words,' through to album highlights 'One of Eight' and closing epic 'Whale Fall,' Fractured Realities paints a portrait of human emotion, manipulation, and our quest for understanding and acceptance in an age of digital overwhelm.
In conjunction with the album’s release, KLOGR will introduce a visual edition of Fractured Realities, which includes music videos for each track directed by former band members who intimately understand the album’s vision.
These videos will play a prominent role during their forthcoming tour with Evergrey, offering fans an immersive multi-sensory experience.
Evergrey - Emptiness Over Europe tour, with Special Guests KLOGR.
UK Dates:
14th December - LONDON, The Dome
15the December - BOURNEMOUTH, The Old Fire Station
16the December - MANCHESTER, Rebellion
17th December - SHEFFIELD), Network 2
18th December - GLASGOW, Cathouse
19th December - DUBLIN, Opium
20th December - COLCHESTER, Arts Centre
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Initiated during the lockdown, the album faced several delays due to personal challenges among the band members, but was finally completed in June 2024.
Fractured Realities also marks a new chapter for the band, characterised by resilience and innovation, as guitarist and front man Gabriele "Rusty" Rustichelli explains:
"It wasn’t easy to get back on the scene after producing our album Keystone with David Bottrill; the pandemic forced us to pause everything. Once things returned to normal, additional challenges emerged that further slowed our work. Fortunately, we managed to restart, refocus, and complete the studio work.
Teamwork was crucial in finishing the production and delivering what I consider to be the band’s best album."
Fractured Realities sees KLOGR evolving their sound by incorporating electronics and synthesizers, propelling their alt rock/ metal sound into a contemporary domain.
The album is a journey through various emotional challenges and disorders fuelled by a society more focused on profit than on the physical and mental well-being of individuals.
From singles 'The Twisted Art' and 'Unspoken Words,' through to album highlights 'One of Eight' and closing epic 'Whale Fall,' Fractured Realities paints a portrait of human emotion, manipulation, and our quest for understanding and acceptance in an age of digital overwhelm.
In conjunction with the album’s release, KLOGR will introduce a visual edition of Fractured Realities, which includes music videos for each track directed by former band members who intimately understand the album’s vision.
These videos will play a prominent role during their forthcoming tour with Evergrey, offering fans an immersive multi-sensory experience.
Evergrey - Emptiness Over Europe tour, with Special Guests KLOGR.
UK Dates:
14th December - LONDON, The Dome
15the December - BOURNEMOUTH, The Old Fire Station
16the December - MANCHESTER, Rebellion
17th December - SHEFFIELD), Network 2
18th December - GLASGOW, Cathouse
19th December - DUBLIN, Opium
20th December - COLCHESTER, Arts Centre
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Italian progressive rock-metal outfit DGM will release of their new studio album, Endless, on October 18th via Frontiers Music Srl. Pre-order Endless here: https://ffm.to/dgmendless
The album is preceded by lead-off single 'The Great Unknown.'
The new single is the perfect trailblazer and bridge between the tradition of the band’s sound and the new path taken on Endless, as guitarist Simone Mularoni explains:
"Endless is the band's first real concept album and first to include more dynamic and acoustic moments than the past. Until now we have always pushed on the accelerator and on the power; this time we have chosen to include more reflective moments, mixing classic progressive rock with parts that are typically DGM in style."
The album is preceded by lead-off single 'The Great Unknown.'
The new single is the perfect trailblazer and bridge between the tradition of the band’s sound and the new path taken on Endless, as guitarist Simone Mularoni explains:
"Endless is the band's first real concept album and first to include more dynamic and acoustic moments than the past. Until now we have always pushed on the accelerator and on the power; this time we have chosen to include more reflective moments, mixing classic progressive rock with parts that are typically DGM in style."
Endless, the band’s twelfth album, is the second of two outstanding releases to be released in a relatively short time frame, albeit a substantial sonic departure from the acclaimed Life, released in late 2023.
Endless chronicles one man's imaginative journey to understand the choices that shaped his life.
Through vivid storytelling, the album explores the eternal question - how might life be different if I had taken another path?
The first part of the album represents the protagonist's self reflection on his current circumstances; the middle section looks back on some pivotal moments where, with the clarity of hindsight, the character imagines alternative timelines springing from hypothetical choices.
In the final act, now older and wiser, he remains plagued by the inexplicable why of life's meandering road; fate and free will collide in the album's lingering last notes.
Musically, Endless offers a different side of the band, one that exposes a lot of influences ranging from 70s progressive rock (Kansas, YES, Jethro Tull) to Italian progressive rock (think Banco or PFM).
In short, an album that is the band’s most mature, relevant and best yet.
DGM are:
Simone Mularoni – guitars, keyboards; Marco Basile – vocals; Emanuele Casali – keyboards, flute; Fabio Costantino – drums; Andrea Arcangeli – bass
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Endless chronicles one man's imaginative journey to understand the choices that shaped his life.
Through vivid storytelling, the album explores the eternal question - how might life be different if I had taken another path?
The first part of the album represents the protagonist's self reflection on his current circumstances; the middle section looks back on some pivotal moments where, with the clarity of hindsight, the character imagines alternative timelines springing from hypothetical choices.
In the final act, now older and wiser, he remains plagued by the inexplicable why of life's meandering road; fate and free will collide in the album's lingering last notes.
Musically, Endless offers a different side of the band, one that exposes a lot of influences ranging from 70s progressive rock (Kansas, YES, Jethro Tull) to Italian progressive rock (think Banco or PFM).
In short, an album that is the band’s most mature, relevant and best yet.
DGM are:
Simone Mularoni – guitars, keyboards; Marco Basile – vocals; Emanuele Casali – keyboards, flute; Fabio Costantino – drums; Andrea Arcangeli – bass
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Photo by Anne-Marie Forker
In August and September 2023, Norwegian art-rock/ post-progressive quintet Dim Gray undertook their first extensive tour of the UK and Europe, playing 15 dates across nine countries with Big Big Train.
The band recorded each show and have now picked out a selection of songs that will form a live digital EP to be released in the autumn.
The EP will contain live versions of songs from both Dim Gray albums to date, as well as recent single, 'Murals.'
The latest track to be issued from the forthcoming EP is '52~,' the original version of which can be found on the band’s second album, Firmament.
"52~ is a lockdown song," explains vocalist/ keyboardist Oskar Holldorff. "I started writing it just as the world had closed down and we were living inside our own bubbles with minimal real contact with other people.
I think writing it was a subconscious attempt for me to cope with the pandemic, because it's about hiding from the outside world, or from a memory, or a feeling – seeking a temporary refuge from reality, submerged in a lonely ocean.
The title refers to the 52-hertz whale, which is thought of as one of the world’s loneliest animals since it communicates at a frequency too high for other whales to register."
The band recorded each show and have now picked out a selection of songs that will form a live digital EP to be released in the autumn.
The EP will contain live versions of songs from both Dim Gray albums to date, as well as recent single, 'Murals.'
The latest track to be issued from the forthcoming EP is '52~,' the original version of which can be found on the band’s second album, Firmament.
"52~ is a lockdown song," explains vocalist/ keyboardist Oskar Holldorff. "I started writing it just as the world had closed down and we were living inside our own bubbles with minimal real contact with other people.
I think writing it was a subconscious attempt for me to cope with the pandemic, because it's about hiding from the outside world, or from a memory, or a feeling – seeking a temporary refuge from reality, submerged in a lonely ocean.
The title refers to the 52-hertz whale, which is thought of as one of the world’s loneliest animals since it communicates at a frequency too high for other whales to register."
'52~' follows the June release of 'The Wave We Thought We’d Ride Forever' and 'Ashes' in July.
Dim Gray was formed in Oslo by the original core trio of Oskar Holldorff (vocals, keyboards), Håkon Høiberg (guitar, vocals) and Tom Ian Klungland (drums), issuing debut album Flown in 2020 to rave reviews.
Subsequently signing to English Electric Recordings, they released Firmament in 2022 to similar acclaim.
Milad Amouzegar (guitar, keyboards) and Kristian Kvaksrud (bass) joined as permanent group members in 2023.
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Dim Gray was formed in Oslo by the original core trio of Oskar Holldorff (vocals, keyboards), Håkon Høiberg (guitar, vocals) and Tom Ian Klungland (drums), issuing debut album Flown in 2020 to rave reviews.
Subsequently signing to English Electric Recordings, they released Firmament in 2022 to similar acclaim.
Milad Amouzegar (guitar, keyboards) and Kristian Kvaksrud (bass) joined as permanent group members in 2023.
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Canadian prog/alt metal and ambient musician Devin Townsend will release a new studio album, PowerNerd, on the 25th October.
The album has been preceded by the title track as lead-off single; you can stream the track and pre-order the album here: https://devin-townsend.lnk.to/PowerNerd
Unlike most of his previous work, whether solo, as the Devin Townsend Project or leader of Strapping Young Lad, Townsend has chosen to streamline and accelerate his working and songwriting methods for the new album, for which the music was written in just eleven days.
"And that was a conscious thing," says Townsend. "I thought, 'I’ve spent so much time overthinking every aspect of my work – what would happen if I didn’t?' Maybe I would have the opportunity to be a bit more direct with what it is that I’m trying to do. I really wanted to see if I could cut through some of the meanderings."
The power-down no fuss, no frills title track (featuring a guest spot from American metal singer Jamey Jasta and accompanied by a suitably nerdy video), certainly nods to those comments...
The album has been preceded by the title track as lead-off single; you can stream the track and pre-order the album here: https://devin-townsend.lnk.to/PowerNerd
Unlike most of his previous work, whether solo, as the Devin Townsend Project or leader of Strapping Young Lad, Townsend has chosen to streamline and accelerate his working and songwriting methods for the new album, for which the music was written in just eleven days.
"And that was a conscious thing," says Townsend. "I thought, 'I’ve spent so much time overthinking every aspect of my work – what would happen if I didn’t?' Maybe I would have the opportunity to be a bit more direct with what it is that I’m trying to do. I really wanted to see if I could cut through some of the meanderings."
The power-down no fuss, no frills title track (featuring a guest spot from American metal singer Jamey Jasta and accompanied by a suitably nerdy video), certainly nods to those comments...
The power, pace and aggression of 'PowerNerd' the song doesn’t tell the whole musical story of PowerNerd the album, however – 'Dreams of Light' is an evocative four-minute ballad; 'Younger Lover' calms down from an explosive opening to lush verses of synths and singing; 'Falling Apart' and 'Jainism' add texture after texture to their acoustic introductions.
And while the music for PowerNerd was written in less than a fortnight, the lyrics were refined over a far longer period, forming a narrative about strength, healing and positivity.
Such uplifting messaging even plays into the record’s title.
"I would say that a PowerNerd would be somebody that society has deemed weak or not valuable, whether that’s empathy or being an insular person or an introvert, and turns that into a type of personal power." continues Townsend. "It’s like, 'yeah, I’m sensitive to this, that and the other thing, but I am going to pull through! I am going to do things with that sensitivity that are rooted in strength'."
PowerNerd will be available on several different formats, including a Limited 2CD+Blu-ray Artbook (featuring the album, bonus tracks and Devin Townsend’s first-ever Dolby Atmos mix), Limited 2CD Digipak in O-card, Standard CD, Gatefold 2LP & Digital Album.
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And while the music for PowerNerd was written in less than a fortnight, the lyrics were refined over a far longer period, forming a narrative about strength, healing and positivity.
Such uplifting messaging even plays into the record’s title.
"I would say that a PowerNerd would be somebody that society has deemed weak or not valuable, whether that’s empathy or being an insular person or an introvert, and turns that into a type of personal power." continues Townsend. "It’s like, 'yeah, I’m sensitive to this, that and the other thing, but I am going to pull through! I am going to do things with that sensitivity that are rooted in strength'."
PowerNerd will be available on several different formats, including a Limited 2CD+Blu-ray Artbook (featuring the album, bonus tracks and Devin Townsend’s first-ever Dolby Atmos mix), Limited 2CD Digipak in O-card, Standard CD, Gatefold 2LP & Digital Album.
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Bryan Adams has released a video to accompany his upcoming new single 'War Machine.'
The song, released on his newly launched independent record label Bad Records, follows the previously released 'Rock And Roll Hell;' both songs were co-written by Adams, Jim Vallance and Gene Simmons for the 1982 KISS album Creatures of the Night.
Bryan Adams was eager to share his version of 'War Machine,' noting that the current global climate makes it a fitting time for its release.
"I’d been collaborating with CGI director Ben Ib on a peace-themed video entitled ‘What If There Were No Sides At All’. To contrast the peace message of that video, I proposed to Ben that we develop the War Machine video showcasing chaos and destruction. In the video, the tyrant that is leading the war ultimately faces consequences for his actions."
The song, released on his newly launched independent record label Bad Records, follows the previously released 'Rock And Roll Hell;' both songs were co-written by Adams, Jim Vallance and Gene Simmons for the 1982 KISS album Creatures of the Night.
Bryan Adams was eager to share his version of 'War Machine,' noting that the current global climate makes it a fitting time for its release.
"I’d been collaborating with CGI director Ben Ib on a peace-themed video entitled ‘What If There Were No Sides At All’. To contrast the peace message of that video, I proposed to Ben that we develop the War Machine video showcasing chaos and destruction. In the video, the tyrant that is leading the war ultimately faces consequences for his actions."
'War Machine' and 'Rock And Roll Hell' mark the official launch of Bad Records, with a special 7" vinyl single out August 30th (the same date that 'War Machine' will become available on all streaming platforms).
The 7" single, along with other merch, is available to pre-order ahead of its release here.
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The 7" single, along with other merch, is available to pre-order ahead of its release here.
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Nashville inspired artist Toria Richings will release a new EP entitled Bend and Break on the 17th September.
The EP follows hot on the heels of her hugely successful debut tour of the UK in June, which gave audiences a first taste of the new songs. In July, the title song of the EP was released as a taster-single.
The EP follows hot on the heels of her hugely successful debut tour of the UK in June, which gave audiences a first taste of the new songs. In July, the title song of the EP was released as a taster-single.
Born in the UK and living in Sydney, Australia, Toria Richings is now making most of her records in Nashville under the watchful eye of legendary producer Bill Wence, who boasts four self-penned & self-released Billboard singles under his own name (and a series of Billboard cuts with artists such as Ronnie McDowell, Cristy Lane, Bobby G. Rice and Orion).
Bend and Break, which proudly wears those Nashville country and cowboy stylings on its musical sleeve, dovetails with forthcoming live dates in the US, Canada and Australia, all confirmed before the end of the year; there is also a likely return to the UK in 2025.
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Bend and Break, which proudly wears those Nashville country and cowboy stylings on its musical sleeve, dovetails with forthcoming live dates in the US, Canada and Australia, all confirmed before the end of the year; there is also a likely return to the UK in 2025.
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Grammy-nominated, powerhouse blues singer-songwriter Beth Hart has announced her new studio album, You Still Got Me, is to be released on 25th October via Provogue/ Mascot Label Group.
Pre-order here: https://lnk.to/Bethhart
The album, which features appearances by Eric Gales (groove-laden funk number 'Suga N My Bowl') and Slash (soaring rocker 'Savior With a Razor'), has been preceded by 'Little Heartbreak Girl,' the title track and now 'Wonderful World,' as taster-singles.
Piano ballad Wonderful World "was written for and about my beautiful niece," says Beth Hart.
"As time has gone by, I see that it’s really written for the lineage of the women in my family, all the way down the line; my great grandma, my grandma, my mom, my sisters, my niece and her daughter.
So it's the lineage, and how imperative it is for me to see that; and what a gift to finally see that."
Pre-order here: https://lnk.to/Bethhart
The album, which features appearances by Eric Gales (groove-laden funk number 'Suga N My Bowl') and Slash (soaring rocker 'Savior With a Razor'), has been preceded by 'Little Heartbreak Girl,' the title track and now 'Wonderful World,' as taster-singles.
Piano ballad Wonderful World "was written for and about my beautiful niece," says Beth Hart.
"As time has gone by, I see that it’s really written for the lineage of the women in my family, all the way down the line; my great grandma, my grandma, my mom, my sisters, my niece and her daughter.
So it's the lineage, and how imperative it is for me to see that; and what a gift to finally see that."
You Still Got Me is Beth Hart's eleventh studio album.
Her most recent albums, A Tribute To Led Zeppelin (2022) and War In My Mind (2019), became her highest charting UK and US releases to date, whilst also making the Top 10 in Germany, France. Sweden, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, and The Netherlands.
Selling out shows worldwide, her recent travels have taken her across the US, Canada, Europe, and all the way to India, Morocco, and Australia.
Beth Hart will also be playing the UK on 28th November (the Lighthouse, Poole) and 30th November (the Dome, Brighton). She will return in 2025 to play on 18th February (the Beacon, Bristol), 20th February (Eventim Apollo, London) and 22nd February (the Arts Centre, Warwick).
Tickets are available here.
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Her most recent albums, A Tribute To Led Zeppelin (2022) and War In My Mind (2019), became her highest charting UK and US releases to date, whilst also making the Top 10 in Germany, France. Sweden, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, and The Netherlands.
Selling out shows worldwide, her recent travels have taken her across the US, Canada, Europe, and all the way to India, Morocco, and Australia.
Beth Hart will also be playing the UK on 28th November (the Lighthouse, Poole) and 30th November (the Dome, Brighton). She will return in 2025 to play on 18th February (the Beacon, Bristol), 20th February (Eventim Apollo, London) and 22nd February (the Arts Centre, Warwick).
Tickets are available here.
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Progressive, psychedelic rock pioneers Gong have announced a new special edition of their highly praised 2023 release Unending Ascending.
The new release, a digipak CD package with an 8-page booklet and 6 previously unreleased bonus tracks (recorded live from the band’s 2024 show at Edinburgh’s Summerhall), will be released on Kscope on 20th September. Pre-order here: https://gong.lnk.to/UA_special_edition
The release coincides with Gong’s extensive late-2024 North American & European tour which will see them play shows across the USA (including the ProgStock festival in New Jersey), Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Poland, among others.
Full tour listings and tickets at: https://www.gongband.com/shows/
The new release, a digipak CD package with an 8-page booklet and 6 previously unreleased bonus tracks (recorded live from the band’s 2024 show at Edinburgh’s Summerhall), will be released on Kscope on 20th September. Pre-order here: https://gong.lnk.to/UA_special_edition
The release coincides with Gong’s extensive late-2024 North American & European tour which will see them play shows across the USA (including the ProgStock festival in New Jersey), Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Poland, among others.
Full tour listings and tickets at: https://www.gongband.com/shows/
The universe of Gong began in 1969 when visionary Daevid Allen was inspired by a profound psychedelic vision. A founder member of Soft Machine, Allen incorporated his spiritual and metaphysical leanings into an evolving collective.
Gong went on to establish itself as one of the most unique, innovative, and experimental rock groups of the seventies, through an exploratory mix of rock, jazz and psychedelia with elements of mysticism and surrealism, unafraid to deliver its messages directly, obliquely or whimsically.
The current incarnation, put together by Daevid Allen for his swansong album with Gong, I See You, honour his intention that Gong do not die with him, urging the band to "carry it on into new unknown heights and depths far beyond anything I could ever imagine myself."
The current lineup of Kavus Torabi (vocals, guitar), Dave Sturt (bass, vocals), Fabio Golfetti (guitar, vocals), Ian East (sax, flute) and Cheb Nettles (drums, percussion, vocals) is the most stable in Gong's history, having written, recorded and toured together for eight years since Allen's passing.
A dynamic, powerful and explosive live band, their music draws from the credo of the original Gong while remaining committed to pushing the composition, performances and message into new realms, paying no mind to nostalgia.
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Gong went on to establish itself as one of the most unique, innovative, and experimental rock groups of the seventies, through an exploratory mix of rock, jazz and psychedelia with elements of mysticism and surrealism, unafraid to deliver its messages directly, obliquely or whimsically.
The current incarnation, put together by Daevid Allen for his swansong album with Gong, I See You, honour his intention that Gong do not die with him, urging the band to "carry it on into new unknown heights and depths far beyond anything I could ever imagine myself."
The current lineup of Kavus Torabi (vocals, guitar), Dave Sturt (bass, vocals), Fabio Golfetti (guitar, vocals), Ian East (sax, flute) and Cheb Nettles (drums, percussion, vocals) is the most stable in Gong's history, having written, recorded and toured together for eight years since Allen's passing.
A dynamic, powerful and explosive live band, their music draws from the credo of the original Gong while remaining committed to pushing the composition, performances and message into new realms, paying no mind to nostalgia.
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Vancouver based rock quartet Lions In The Street have released a new single entitled 'Moving Along.'
The song, a 70s Rolling Stones meets harmonica blowin' blues rocker, is the lead-off title track of their upcoming album, to be released 8th November.
Pre-order the digital edition of the album here. Pre-order the album in CD and Vinyl formats here.
The song, a 70s Rolling Stones meets harmonica blowin' blues rocker, is the lead-off title track of their upcoming album, to be released 8th November.
Pre-order the digital edition of the album here. Pre-order the album in CD and Vinyl formats here.
'Moving Along,' which will also be featured in upcoming Paramount film Cassino in Ischia, has had quite the remarkable journey, as has the band…
Featuring brothers Chris (vocals, guitar) and Jeff (drums) Kinnon, Sean Casey (lead guitar) and Enzo Figliuzzi (bass), Lions In The Street has played with everybody from garage legends such as the Dirtbombs to arena stars Kings of Leon.
Between 2006 and 2013 they released two EPs and a full-length album (from where the original version of 'Moving Along' hails), but a run of ensuing unforeseen circumstances, label and management issues, an unfinished album, serious health concerns and near fatal car accident led to nothing short of obscurity.
Even hanging with the likes of Todd Rundgren and Bob Ezrin (producers cited at one point to work with the band) Rolling Stones' legendary manager Andrew Loog Oldham and R.E.M.’s Peter Buck couldn’t renew the band’s fortunes.
Now, however, a decade on from the band’s last EP offering, and in an age where streaming platforms can give an artist a new lease of life, Lions in the Street have both a musical rebirth and a new audience.
The results are Moving Along, a mix of largely unheard, finally finished music, and remixed & remastered nuggets from their earlier releases.
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Featuring brothers Chris (vocals, guitar) and Jeff (drums) Kinnon, Sean Casey (lead guitar) and Enzo Figliuzzi (bass), Lions In The Street has played with everybody from garage legends such as the Dirtbombs to arena stars Kings of Leon.
Between 2006 and 2013 they released two EPs and a full-length album (from where the original version of 'Moving Along' hails), but a run of ensuing unforeseen circumstances, label and management issues, an unfinished album, serious health concerns and near fatal car accident led to nothing short of obscurity.
Even hanging with the likes of Todd Rundgren and Bob Ezrin (producers cited at one point to work with the band) Rolling Stones' legendary manager Andrew Loog Oldham and R.E.M.’s Peter Buck couldn’t renew the band’s fortunes.
Now, however, a decade on from the band’s last EP offering, and in an age where streaming platforms can give an artist a new lease of life, Lions in the Street have both a musical rebirth and a new audience.
The results are Moving Along, a mix of largely unheard, finally finished music, and remixed & remastered nuggets from their earlier releases.
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Spanish singer guitarist & songwriter Susan Santos will be out on the UK road in October to promote her latest album Sonora, which was released earlier this year.
The tour comprises seven headline gigs, including two in Scotland, and Special Guest to Brave Rival at the Tree House in Frome. See poster below for full listings.
Sonora is a blues-rock album of tales from the dusty road. An album of the desert, and the desert people. The songs tell stories ranging from survival, thirst, outlaws, escape and freedom against a backdrop of scorpions, lizards and roadrunners. Before listening, it is highly recommended to embark on your road journey with a full tank - and don’t pick up any hitchhikers!
The tour comprises seven headline gigs, including two in Scotland, and Special Guest to Brave Rival at the Tree House in Frome. See poster below for full listings.
Sonora is a blues-rock album of tales from the dusty road. An album of the desert, and the desert people. The songs tell stories ranging from survival, thirst, outlaws, escape and freedom against a backdrop of scorpions, lizards and roadrunners. Before listening, it is highly recommended to embark on your road journey with a full tank - and don’t pick up any hitchhikers!
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Swedish rockers Eclipse have announced the release of their new studio album Megalomanium II.
The album will be issued on September 20th via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-order Megalomanium II here: https://ffm.to/eclipsemegalomaniumii
The band have now issued a further taster in the shape of new single 'Still My Hero,' of which frontman Erik Mårtensson comments: "When I wrote this song I had the phrase 'still my hero' on my original scrap demo. The only hero I've ever had was my dad, so I made the whole song about him. He sadly passed away much too young in 2014. This is a tribute to a great man."
The album will be issued on September 20th via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-order Megalomanium II here: https://ffm.to/eclipsemegalomaniumii
The band have now issued a further taster in the shape of new single 'Still My Hero,' of which frontman Erik Mårtensson comments: "When I wrote this song I had the phrase 'still my hero' on my original scrap demo. The only hero I've ever had was my dad, so I made the whole song about him. He sadly passed away much too young in 2014. This is a tribute to a great man."
Eclipse, renowned for their signature sound of massive hooks and stellar musicianship, have become one of Sweden's largest heavy rock bands with well over 100 million streams on various platforms.
Following on from the release of Megalomanium last September and, more recently, exclusive 7" vinyl track 'Apocalypse Blues' and the singles 'Falling To My Knees' and 'The Spark,' the band's trajectory to craft memorable anthems is intact and up-front on Megalomanium II.
"If you thought the title of our previous record was proof of us suffering from delusions of grandeur, then you’re absolutely right!" jokes Mårtensson.
"So, the only way we could top it was to make another one. Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you, Megalomanium II."
"This band is on a continuous journey trying to find new avenues to explore," adds guitarist Magnus Henriksson. "Having said that, Megalomanium II is probably closer to what people associate Eclipse with; it’s filled to the brim with large choruses, beautiful melodies and some amazing guitar playing. I’m totally unbiased, by the way," laughs Henriksson.
Eclipse have been making increasingly larger waves on the European and American rock scene over the last years.
With tours ranging from South America to Australia and Japan, the band have become a force to be reckoned with, as festival goers of Wacken, Alcatraz, and Summer Breeze, to name but three, are very well aware.
Eclipse are:
Erik Mårtensson – Vocals; Magnus Henriksson – Guitars; Philip Crusner – Drums; Victor Crusner – Bass
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Following on from the release of Megalomanium last September and, more recently, exclusive 7" vinyl track 'Apocalypse Blues' and the singles 'Falling To My Knees' and 'The Spark,' the band's trajectory to craft memorable anthems is intact and up-front on Megalomanium II.
"If you thought the title of our previous record was proof of us suffering from delusions of grandeur, then you’re absolutely right!" jokes Mårtensson.
"So, the only way we could top it was to make another one. Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you, Megalomanium II."
"This band is on a continuous journey trying to find new avenues to explore," adds guitarist Magnus Henriksson. "Having said that, Megalomanium II is probably closer to what people associate Eclipse with; it’s filled to the brim with large choruses, beautiful melodies and some amazing guitar playing. I’m totally unbiased, by the way," laughs Henriksson.
Eclipse have been making increasingly larger waves on the European and American rock scene over the last years.
With tours ranging from South America to Australia and Japan, the band have become a force to be reckoned with, as festival goers of Wacken, Alcatraz, and Summer Breeze, to name but three, are very well aware.
Eclipse are:
Erik Mårtensson – Vocals; Magnus Henriksson – Guitars; Philip Crusner – Drums; Victor Crusner – Bass
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Blues rock band The Cold Stares have released a new single entitled 'Mortality Blues,' the latest single from their highly anticipated seventh studio album, The Southern, released September 6th via Mascot Records. Pre-order The Southern here - https://lnk.to/TheColdStares
An eerie, modern Delta blues track played on singer-guitarist Chris Tapp’s resonator guitar, the haunting 'Mortality Blues' is infused with Southern imagery and thematics, drawing on the mythos of legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson.
'Mortality Blues,' along with previous single 'Horse To Water,' are the tasters to a slate of new, southern slanted material that will be herard on Southern, as Chris Tapp explains:
"After touring the world the last few years, we kept getting the tag 'southern' attached to our music in interviews and press. Being 'southern' was never something we intentionally did or tried to interject, but since being labelled as such, I decided to write a series of songs that exemplified what that term meant to me."
An eerie, modern Delta blues track played on singer-guitarist Chris Tapp’s resonator guitar, the haunting 'Mortality Blues' is infused with Southern imagery and thematics, drawing on the mythos of legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson.
'Mortality Blues,' along with previous single 'Horse To Water,' are the tasters to a slate of new, southern slanted material that will be herard on Southern, as Chris Tapp explains:
"After touring the world the last few years, we kept getting the tag 'southern' attached to our music in interviews and press. Being 'southern' was never something we intentionally did or tried to interject, but since being labelled as such, I decided to write a series of songs that exemplified what that term meant to me."
The release of The Southern in Sptember follows on from 2022’s studio album Voices, an exploration of the band's evolving rock blues sound and lineup as they expanded from the original duo of Chris Tapp and drummer Brian Mullins to include bassist Bryce Klueh.
Forming in 2009 and releasing their debut album Cold Wet Night And a Howling Wind in 2012, the band have gone on to release a series of acclaimed albums and a clutch of EPs that feature a heady and contemporary take on the rock blues genre.
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Forming in 2009 and releasing their debut album Cold Wet Night And a Howling Wind in 2012, the band have gone on to release a series of acclaimed albums and a clutch of EPs that feature a heady and contemporary take on the rock blues genre.
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I’m Just Like You, the forthcoming new album from UK based international singer/ songwriter/ guitarist Sunjay, will be released on 11th November.
The album will be available to pre-order from Friday 20th September on Mighty Tight Records via:
www.sunjay.tv
The first single, 'Link Of Chain,' will be simultaneously released on album pre-order day.
I’m Just Like You, produced by Sunjay and Josh Clark at Get Real Studios in Bath, is the second in a set of three releases inspired during the pandemic period and lockdown livestreams, as Sunjay explains:
"Instead of just playing my regular set (in different orders!) I decided to do a series of themed livestreams – the first was on Valentine’s Day with a 'love' theme.
I did other themes specific to previous albums, including a night of the blues, which inspired 2022’s Black & Blues Revisited (the first of the three releases) and tribute livesteams to inspirational artists."
One of those was 'Sunjay Sings Chris Smither,' which in turn inspired the new album I’m Just Like You, although it wasn’t originally intended for commercial release.
"I was inspired by Chris from an early age" continues Sunjay. "The first time I watched him on YouTube at the age of sixteen I was transfixed. Soon after, I went to see Chris perform at The Luminaire in London.
By chance I happened to be staying in the same place as Chris and ran into him at the bar. We spent some time talking and the next day played a guitar together, a testimony to Chris’ natural generous nature."
"The next time I saw Chris live, he asked the venue promoter if I could do three songs to open the show. Since then, I’ve opened for Chris several times and had the pleasure of getting to know him."
Sunjay is also keen to point out that the collection of 15 Chris Smither songs are "faithful representations of the originals; I’ve kept the guitar parts the same as Chris’ original recordings, adding my flavour with the arrangements and production (apart from one line I changed in Leave The Light On – you’ll understand why when you get there!).
I thought this would be a nice little birthday present/ tribute but somewhere along the way, I decided I wanted people to hear it, so it will now be released on Chris’ 80th Birthday."
There’s also a reason why Sunjay’s recorded output has been primarily covers or tributes, as he is only now able to tell…
"I misguidedly signed a 10 year publishing contract that I’ve only just started telling people about.
Let’s just say it was the wrong career move and since, I’ve been forced to release mostly covers albums, as I didn’t want to give 50% of my royalties away for nothing.
I’m out of contract now but I’ve got one more card to play in my covers deck before I release my first originals album. I know that people have been waiting to hear what I really have to say and I’m looking forward to satiating that appetite!
Following the album’s release Sunjay and his band will be out on tour through November, with a final date in December.
The album will be available to pre-order from Friday 20th September on Mighty Tight Records via:
www.sunjay.tv
The first single, 'Link Of Chain,' will be simultaneously released on album pre-order day.
I’m Just Like You, produced by Sunjay and Josh Clark at Get Real Studios in Bath, is the second in a set of three releases inspired during the pandemic period and lockdown livestreams, as Sunjay explains:
"Instead of just playing my regular set (in different orders!) I decided to do a series of themed livestreams – the first was on Valentine’s Day with a 'love' theme.
I did other themes specific to previous albums, including a night of the blues, which inspired 2022’s Black & Blues Revisited (the first of the three releases) and tribute livesteams to inspirational artists."
One of those was 'Sunjay Sings Chris Smither,' which in turn inspired the new album I’m Just Like You, although it wasn’t originally intended for commercial release.
"I was inspired by Chris from an early age" continues Sunjay. "The first time I watched him on YouTube at the age of sixteen I was transfixed. Soon after, I went to see Chris perform at The Luminaire in London.
By chance I happened to be staying in the same place as Chris and ran into him at the bar. We spent some time talking and the next day played a guitar together, a testimony to Chris’ natural generous nature."
"The next time I saw Chris live, he asked the venue promoter if I could do three songs to open the show. Since then, I’ve opened for Chris several times and had the pleasure of getting to know him."
Sunjay is also keen to point out that the collection of 15 Chris Smither songs are "faithful representations of the originals; I’ve kept the guitar parts the same as Chris’ original recordings, adding my flavour with the arrangements and production (apart from one line I changed in Leave The Light On – you’ll understand why when you get there!).
I thought this would be a nice little birthday present/ tribute but somewhere along the way, I decided I wanted people to hear it, so it will now be released on Chris’ 80th Birthday."
There’s also a reason why Sunjay’s recorded output has been primarily covers or tributes, as he is only now able to tell…
"I misguidedly signed a 10 year publishing contract that I’ve only just started telling people about.
Let’s just say it was the wrong career move and since, I’ve been forced to release mostly covers albums, as I didn’t want to give 50% of my royalties away for nothing.
I’m out of contract now but I’ve got one more card to play in my covers deck before I release my first originals album. I know that people have been waiting to hear what I really have to say and I’m looking forward to satiating that appetite!
Following the album’s release Sunjay and his band will be out on tour through November, with a final date in December.
I’m Just Like You Tour 2024 (tickets: www.sunjay.tv )
3rd NOV – Twickfolk, TWICKENHAM
8th NOV - Woodman Folk Club, KINGSWINFORD
9th NOV – Finstock Village Hall, CHIPPING NORTON
10th NOV Balmoral Club, SALTBURN
11th NOV – White Horse Folk, Club, BEVERLEY
13th NOV – Cramlington Folk Club, CRAMLINGTON
15th NOV – Stables 2, MILTON KEYNES
19th NOV - Tuesday Night Music Club, LONDON
20th NOV - Atherstone Folk Club, WARWICKSHIRE
26th NOV – Dartford Folk Club, DARTFORD
28th NOV – Wren, STONE
14th DEC – St. Georges Hall, BEWDLEY
Drawing from a rich, musical, and cultural background, Sunjay, with a style that has that natural drift between folk and blues, has quickly become recognised as one of the UK’s rising stars.
"One of the best young pickers and singers around."
– Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
"One of the UK’s finest young Blues stars." – Iain Anderson, BBC Radio Scotland
"A very accomplished and dynamic guitarist… echoes of a young Ralph McTell." – RNR Magazine
"Talents way beyond his years. A soothing, natural sound… definitely destined for bigger things."
– Maverick Magazine
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3rd NOV – Twickfolk, TWICKENHAM
8th NOV - Woodman Folk Club, KINGSWINFORD
9th NOV – Finstock Village Hall, CHIPPING NORTON
10th NOV Balmoral Club, SALTBURN
11th NOV – White Horse Folk, Club, BEVERLEY
13th NOV – Cramlington Folk Club, CRAMLINGTON
15th NOV – Stables 2, MILTON KEYNES
19th NOV - Tuesday Night Music Club, LONDON
20th NOV - Atherstone Folk Club, WARWICKSHIRE
26th NOV – Dartford Folk Club, DARTFORD
28th NOV – Wren, STONE
14th DEC – St. Georges Hall, BEWDLEY
Drawing from a rich, musical, and cultural background, Sunjay, with a style that has that natural drift between folk and blues, has quickly become recognised as one of the UK’s rising stars.
"One of the best young pickers and singers around."
– Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
"One of the UK’s finest young Blues stars." – Iain Anderson, BBC Radio Scotland
"A very accomplished and dynamic guitarist… echoes of a young Ralph McTell." – RNR Magazine
"Talents way beyond his years. A soothing, natural sound… definitely destined for bigger things."
– Maverick Magazine
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Multi-instrumentalist Pete Briley, a member of southern-tinged "heavygrass" rockers The Outlaw Orchestra and part of the Top Floor Music team, has followed up 2023’s acclaimed solo debut Album #1 with a brand new single entitled 'Colour (California).'
Telling the story of a trip to the American state, 'Colour (California)' is the perfect up-tempo, soundtrack to the summer; it’s also another upbeat collaboration with Jonny Moody (Mood Market Studios).
With the four-bar pattern of the Indie-pop track having a different number of beats in each bar, and a lyric referencing the Kerouac and Beat poets, the time-signature and lyrics combine to make a perfectly off-kilter paring, transporting the listener to Pete Briley’s adventures hanging out in the old haunts, bookshops and bars of the Beat Generation.
Telling the story of a trip to the American state, 'Colour (California)' is the perfect up-tempo, soundtrack to the summer; it’s also another upbeat collaboration with Jonny Moody (Mood Market Studios).
With the four-bar pattern of the Indie-pop track having a different number of beats in each bar, and a lyric referencing the Kerouac and Beat poets, the time-signature and lyrics combine to make a perfectly off-kilter paring, transporting the listener to Pete Briley’s adventures hanging out in the old haunts, bookshops and bars of the Beat Generation.
Colour (California) follows an impressive ‘track’ record of previous singles being showcased through BBC Introducing, as well as a number of ‘Track of the Week’ and ‘Tracks of the Year’ choices in 2023.
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North Carolina southern rock 'n' rollers Preacher Stone recently released their good time/ summer vibed new single 'Rain or Shine.'
Of the song, lifted from their highly acclaimed new album V, frontman Ronnie Riddle says:
"As a band, we live in this world where if we’re OK with you and you’re OK with us, then we should all get along; the more folk that do that the better, and to not pay attention to the garbage out there.
Rain or Shine points a stern finger at the mixed messages the media gives us, but it’s definitely one to play loud, traveling down the freeway to have fun with your family and friends at a BBQ, of which the video shows!"
Of the song, lifted from their highly acclaimed new album V, frontman Ronnie Riddle says:
"As a band, we live in this world where if we’re OK with you and you’re OK with us, then we should all get along; the more folk that do that the better, and to not pay attention to the garbage out there.
Rain or Shine points a stern finger at the mixed messages the media gives us, but it’s definitely one to play loud, traveling down the freeway to have fun with your family and friends at a BBQ, of which the video shows!"
This first half of 2024 has seen this band of musical brothers face adversity in the sad passing of keyboard player Johnny Webb and, most recently, founding member and lead guitarist Marty Hill.
"It was a shock losing Johnny," comments Ronnie Riddle, "but Marty knew what he was up against and made preparations. We had our orders to carry on, so there was no question or intention of giving up.
We owe it to all who our music means something to and we honour them every day; the outpouring of love and support from folk around the world was incredible and not lost on us."
Latest album V was recorded at the legendary Gat3 Studios in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Produced & engineered by the multiple Grammy winning Glenn Tabor (Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Kid Rock), the album received stellar reviews across the board.
"Authentic to their very core" – Maximum Volume Music
"An album that demands attention" – Metal talk
"Enjoy a proper rock and roll party!" – Emerging Rock Bands
"Their best album yet, V keeps the southern flag flying, Preacher Stone style" – FabricationsHQ
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"It was a shock losing Johnny," comments Ronnie Riddle, "but Marty knew what he was up against and made preparations. We had our orders to carry on, so there was no question or intention of giving up.
We owe it to all who our music means something to and we honour them every day; the outpouring of love and support from folk around the world was incredible and not lost on us."
Latest album V was recorded at the legendary Gat3 Studios in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Produced & engineered by the multiple Grammy winning Glenn Tabor (Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Kid Rock), the album received stellar reviews across the board.
"Authentic to their very core" – Maximum Volume Music
"An album that demands attention" – Metal talk
"Enjoy a proper rock and roll party!" – Emerging Rock Bands
"Their best album yet, V keeps the southern flag flying, Preacher Stone style" – FabricationsHQ
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The UK’s own Southern Rockers, Sons of Liberty, have announced a 10th anniversary UK tour with special guests Kit Trigg. See dates further below.
The tour takes in some of the band’s favourite grass roots venues that have seen them thrill audiences and gain new fans over the years. Tickets are on sale now at https://sonsoflibertyband.com/shows
The tour announcement follows on from the release of the song 'Tertulia Time' as their very own summer single.
Of the song, which is lifted from the band's latest album The Detail Is In The Devil, the band say:
"Tertulia Time is a party song inspired by warm nights under the stars with friends around an open fire, talking about everything, sometimes nonsense, a little drunk, a few songs and a lot of laughing.
The Spanish name (Tertulia is a word meaning a social gathering with literary or artistic overtones) felt right with the warmth of being with good friends, and the uplifting feel of the music."
The tour takes in some of the band’s favourite grass roots venues that have seen them thrill audiences and gain new fans over the years. Tickets are on sale now at https://sonsoflibertyband.com/shows
The tour announcement follows on from the release of the song 'Tertulia Time' as their very own summer single.
Of the song, which is lifted from the band's latest album The Detail Is In The Devil, the band say:
"Tertulia Time is a party song inspired by warm nights under the stars with friends around an open fire, talking about everything, sometimes nonsense, a little drunk, a few songs and a lot of laughing.
The Spanish name (Tertulia is a word meaning a social gathering with literary or artistic overtones) felt right with the warmth of being with good friends, and the uplifting feel of the music."
2024 has seen the Bristol based Sons Of Liberty tipped for success by Classic Rock Magazine, featuring in their 'Hot List' of artists with latest album The Detail Is In The Devil, which received exemplary reviews across the board.
The band have established themselves as one of the most popular live acts on the current original hard rock scene, gracing the stages of both UK and European festivals in Planet Rock Winter’s End, Call Of The Wild, Maid of Stone, Bully-On-The-Rocks and many more.
Joining the 10th Anniversary party are young and incendiary rock-trio Kit Trigg, who write classic rock for the present day.
The band, who have received airplay on Planet Rock, deliver a high-energy and captivating live show, making them the perfect special guests.
SONS OF LIBERTY UK DATES
10th Oct - The Victoria, Swindon
11th Oct - Parish, Huddersfield
12th Oct - The Motorsport Lounge, Llandudno
17th Oct - The 1865, Southampton
18th Oct - Leo’s Red Lion, Gravesend
19th Oct - The Electric Banana, Weston-Super-Mare
24th Oct - The Giffard Arms, Wolverhampton
25th Oct - Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
26th Oct - HMV Live, Glasgow (acoustic afternoon in-store)
27th Oct - Backstage At The Green, Kinross
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The band have established themselves as one of the most popular live acts on the current original hard rock scene, gracing the stages of both UK and European festivals in Planet Rock Winter’s End, Call Of The Wild, Maid of Stone, Bully-On-The-Rocks and many more.
Joining the 10th Anniversary party are young and incendiary rock-trio Kit Trigg, who write classic rock for the present day.
The band, who have received airplay on Planet Rock, deliver a high-energy and captivating live show, making them the perfect special guests.
SONS OF LIBERTY UK DATES
10th Oct - The Victoria, Swindon
11th Oct - Parish, Huddersfield
12th Oct - The Motorsport Lounge, Llandudno
17th Oct - The 1865, Southampton
18th Oct - Leo’s Red Lion, Gravesend
19th Oct - The Electric Banana, Weston-Super-Mare
24th Oct - The Giffard Arms, Wolverhampton
25th Oct - Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
26th Oct - HMV Live, Glasgow (acoustic afternoon in-store)
27th Oct - Backstage At The Green, Kinross
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Kentucky rock 'n' rollers Otis have released a new single entitled 'Last Fool In The Line.'
The song, the band’s first original music for seven years, follows on from previous single, a cover of the Betty Harris soul classic 'There’s a Break In The Road.'
Of the new number, frontman/ guitarist Boone Froggett says "It tells the tale of a hard luck guy that never seems to learn his lesson. I think we all know someone like this, or have been in his shoes a time or two!
Musically this song is a love letter to the things we loved about the late 60s era. It's kind of like the Southern Soul of Stax and Atlantic Records meets the English rock of Humble Pie and The Faces."
The song, the band’s first original music for seven years, follows on from previous single, a cover of the Betty Harris soul classic 'There’s a Break In The Road.'
Of the new number, frontman/ guitarist Boone Froggett says "It tells the tale of a hard luck guy that never seems to learn his lesson. I think we all know someone like this, or have been in his shoes a time or two!
Musically this song is a love letter to the things we loved about the late 60s era. It's kind of like the Southern Soul of Stax and Atlantic Records meets the English rock of Humble Pie and The Faces."
While it would be easy to categorise the Otis sound as southern rock, their musical palette is clearly much broader – Boone Froggett, John Seeley (bass), Alex Wells (guitar) and Dale Myers (drums) stay connected to their homegrown roots, having been around traditional instruments from a young age and brought up on deep-diving record collections.
They also have some seriously famous fans – a chance meeting with Billy F Gibbons led to the legendary ZZ Top man listening, and becoming a fan of the band, even handing their albums off to the likes of Buddy Guy and Jeff Beck.
Previous US/UK tours have included sharing bills with such noted acts as ZZ Top, The Kentucky Headhunters, and Blackberry Smoke; they also recently played world famous venues the Allman Brothers Big House in Macon, Georgia and The Iridium in New York.
With this new original release and the new line-up firmly established, expect a heap more to come from the story-telling, southern blues rockin' and soulfully groovin' Otis.
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They also have some seriously famous fans – a chance meeting with Billy F Gibbons led to the legendary ZZ Top man listening, and becoming a fan of the band, even handing their albums off to the likes of Buddy Guy and Jeff Beck.
Previous US/UK tours have included sharing bills with such noted acts as ZZ Top, The Kentucky Headhunters, and Blackberry Smoke; they also recently played world famous venues the Allman Brothers Big House in Macon, Georgia and The Iridium in New York.
With this new original release and the new line-up firmly established, expect a heap more to come from the story-telling, southern blues rockin' and soulfully groovin' Otis.
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Danish-Swedish contemporary rock/ progressive metal quartet VOLA have released a new single entitled 'I Don’t Know How We Got Here.'
The hypnotic, rhythmic and atmospheric song is taken from their forthcoming, and fourth, studio album Friend of a Phantom, which will be released via Mascot Records on 1st November.
Pre-Order the album here: https://lnk.to/Vola-MLG
Of the new single, vocalist-guitarist Asger Mygind says: "I Don’t Know How We Got Here interweaves stories about tragic events in society with a story about a relationship slowly dying out. It seeks to portray the feeling of disbelief that follows when something valuable vanishes right in front of us."
The hypnotic, rhythmic and atmospheric song is taken from their forthcoming, and fourth, studio album Friend of a Phantom, which will be released via Mascot Records on 1st November.
Pre-Order the album here: https://lnk.to/Vola-MLG
Of the new single, vocalist-guitarist Asger Mygind says: "I Don’t Know How We Got Here interweaves stories about tragic events in society with a story about a relationship slowly dying out. It seeks to portray the feeling of disbelief that follows when something valuable vanishes right in front of us."
VOLA will be playing festivals over the summer before undertaking their headline Friend of a Phantom European & UK tour, which will begin on album release day, 1st November.
The tour will call through Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the UK, and The Netherlands.
Full list of dates and tickets are available here https://its.volaband.com/eutour24
The UK dates are:
22 Nov - London, Heaven
23 Nov - Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
24 Nov - Glasgow, G2
25 Nov - Manchester, Club Academy
26 Nov - Bristol, SWX
It has been three years since the release of VOLA's defining album, Witness, which was followed by two tours of the US where several venues had to be upgraded due to demand, including sold out shows in New York, Chicago and the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles.
Their first tour of Canada resulted in sold-out shows in Toronto and Montreal; they also played South American shows in Mexico, Brazil, and a sold-out show in Chile.
Talking about their evolution since Witness, drummer Adam Janzi comments:
"We have had time to internalise Witness, which has shaped how we approached Friend Of A Phantom. Our personal tastes have changed, the way we approach our instruments and songwriting has changed, our lives have changed; time has passed, and adventures have been had.
Whatever piece of melancholy Witness had has grown and become a central part of this new album; I feel that VOLA has reached a new moment in its life."
The album has been preceded by earlier singles 'Break My Lying Tongue,' an intricate and powerful soundscape of light and shade, and 'Paper Wolf,' which mixed melodic choruses with old-school metal atmospheres.
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The tour will call through Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the UK, and The Netherlands.
Full list of dates and tickets are available here https://its.volaband.com/eutour24
The UK dates are:
22 Nov - London, Heaven
23 Nov - Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
24 Nov - Glasgow, G2
25 Nov - Manchester, Club Academy
26 Nov - Bristol, SWX
It has been three years since the release of VOLA's defining album, Witness, which was followed by two tours of the US where several venues had to be upgraded due to demand, including sold out shows in New York, Chicago and the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles.
Their first tour of Canada resulted in sold-out shows in Toronto and Montreal; they also played South American shows in Mexico, Brazil, and a sold-out show in Chile.
Talking about their evolution since Witness, drummer Adam Janzi comments:
"We have had time to internalise Witness, which has shaped how we approached Friend Of A Phantom. Our personal tastes have changed, the way we approach our instruments and songwriting has changed, our lives have changed; time has passed, and adventures have been had.
Whatever piece of melancholy Witness had has grown and become a central part of this new album; I feel that VOLA has reached a new moment in its life."
The album has been preceded by earlier singles 'Break My Lying Tongue,' an intricate and powerful soundscape of light and shade, and 'Paper Wolf,' which mixed melodic choruses with old-school metal atmospheres.
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Croatian blues/rock band Voodoo Ramble, featuring singer-guitarist Boris Zamba, recently released a new single entitled 'Midnight Ride.'
The soulfully paced, southern blues influenced number features lyrics from Pete Feenstra and special guest Muddy Manninen (Wishbone Ash/ Black Pearl) on additional guitar, lap steel solos and fills.
The song is also the second advance single from the band’s forthcoming fifth album In The Heart of The City, which mirrors Boris Zamba’s love of bluesy, southern rock.
Of the song Boris Zamba says: "We started with Pete’s evocative lyrics, which I call 'unearthly,' as they create an experience even without the music. So, when it came to actually building the music round the narrative, it was a real joy."
"For me, this is the perfect example of when lyrical imagery magically turns into music" adds Pete Feenstra. I had this nebulous film noir idea set in old Victorian era docks with creaking boats and the need to escape, before Boris and Muddy magically transformed it into a Southern rock biker anthem."
The soulfully paced, southern blues influenced number features lyrics from Pete Feenstra and special guest Muddy Manninen (Wishbone Ash/ Black Pearl) on additional guitar, lap steel solos and fills.
The song is also the second advance single from the band’s forthcoming fifth album In The Heart of The City, which mirrors Boris Zamba’s love of bluesy, southern rock.
Of the song Boris Zamba says: "We started with Pete’s evocative lyrics, which I call 'unearthly,' as they create an experience even without the music. So, when it came to actually building the music round the narrative, it was a real joy."
"For me, this is the perfect example of when lyrical imagery magically turns into music" adds Pete Feenstra. I had this nebulous film noir idea set in old Victorian era docks with creaking boats and the need to escape, before Boris and Muddy magically transformed it into a Southern rock biker anthem."
European Blues Challenge finalists Voodoo Ramble are known for guitar-led songs that create vivid imagery and a groove laden style that incorporates rock, blues and soulful Southern rock influences; all of which will be heard to fine effect on In The Heart Of The City.
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Former Iron Maiden vocalist and frontman Paul Di’Anno will release a newly remastered collection plus previously unreleased tracks entitled The Book of The Beast via Conquest Music on September 27th.
The album, available in Blood Red, Virgin White and Cold Steel coloured double vinyl and as a 2-disc CD/DVD with five previously unreleased tracks, features a carefully curated collection of songs that distils some of the best moments from Di’Anno’s career.
The CD/DVD also includes rare live, promotional, and acoustic video footage.
For the release, deep cuts from albums going back to Paul Di’Anno’s Battlezone, Killers and solo days have been re-mastered along with some rare acoustic, rehearsal and demo recordings.
There are also reworkings of two Iron Maiden classics, with a dark twist – 'Remember Tomorrow' and 'Wrathchild' feature Di’Anno duetting alongside Tony Martin (Black Sabbath), ZP Theart (Dragonforce) and Lidya Balaban (Crowley).
"It might sound like an unusual combination, but Lidya has got a brilliant voice!" enthuses Di’Anno.
The vinyl albums feature the duet with Lydia Balaban while the ZP Theart & Tony Martin duets are on CD/DVD, and Digital.
"I’ve never felt my albums were given the promotion they deserved, and record labels just didn’t take me seriously" continues Di’Anno.
"But the guys at Conquest Music are really on the case, so I hope more people will get to hear my music now."
With a CV that includes Battlezone, Killers, Di’Anno (the band), Praying Mantis, The Almighty Inbredz, Warhorse and metal supergroup Gogmagog, Paul Di’Anno is one of the most colourful and controversial characters in hard rock and heavy metal.
He is also, of course, best known for having fronted Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981, appearing on the band’s first two, now iconic albums, Iron Maiden and Killers.
Paul Di’Anno’s voice gave the band and those albums a rawer, punky edge than would be present on subsequent releases.
For that reason, Maiden’s first two albums still inspire strong reactions. Though the band became bigger than ever after his exit, in later years Di’Anno met members of Metallica, Pantera and Sepultura who all respectfully told him how much those first two LPs had influenced them.
"That’s always bloody brilliant to hear," he enthuses. "It’s nice to know that you are worth something in the grand scheme of things."
Pre-Order the album, along with various merch, at https://pauldianno.tmstor.es/
Paul Di’Anno will be touring the UK & Europe from 21st August through to mid-December.
For more info head to www.pauldianno.co.uk
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The album, available in Blood Red, Virgin White and Cold Steel coloured double vinyl and as a 2-disc CD/DVD with five previously unreleased tracks, features a carefully curated collection of songs that distils some of the best moments from Di’Anno’s career.
The CD/DVD also includes rare live, promotional, and acoustic video footage.
For the release, deep cuts from albums going back to Paul Di’Anno’s Battlezone, Killers and solo days have been re-mastered along with some rare acoustic, rehearsal and demo recordings.
There are also reworkings of two Iron Maiden classics, with a dark twist – 'Remember Tomorrow' and 'Wrathchild' feature Di’Anno duetting alongside Tony Martin (Black Sabbath), ZP Theart (Dragonforce) and Lidya Balaban (Crowley).
"It might sound like an unusual combination, but Lidya has got a brilliant voice!" enthuses Di’Anno.
The vinyl albums feature the duet with Lydia Balaban while the ZP Theart & Tony Martin duets are on CD/DVD, and Digital.
"I’ve never felt my albums were given the promotion they deserved, and record labels just didn’t take me seriously" continues Di’Anno.
"But the guys at Conquest Music are really on the case, so I hope more people will get to hear my music now."
With a CV that includes Battlezone, Killers, Di’Anno (the band), Praying Mantis, The Almighty Inbredz, Warhorse and metal supergroup Gogmagog, Paul Di’Anno is one of the most colourful and controversial characters in hard rock and heavy metal.
He is also, of course, best known for having fronted Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981, appearing on the band’s first two, now iconic albums, Iron Maiden and Killers.
Paul Di’Anno’s voice gave the band and those albums a rawer, punky edge than would be present on subsequent releases.
For that reason, Maiden’s first two albums still inspire strong reactions. Though the band became bigger than ever after his exit, in later years Di’Anno met members of Metallica, Pantera and Sepultura who all respectfully told him how much those first two LPs had influenced them.
"That’s always bloody brilliant to hear," he enthuses. "It’s nice to know that you are worth something in the grand scheme of things."
Pre-Order the album, along with various merch, at https://pauldianno.tmstor.es/
Paul Di’Anno will be touring the UK & Europe from 21st August through to mid-December.
For more info head to www.pauldianno.co.uk
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The Bootleg Beatles will undertake a special 12-date UK tour of the UK in the Autumn, including a night at the legendary London Palladium where the Fab Four performed in 1963
Tickets are available now from the venues or at: https://bootlegbeatles.com/gigs/
The iconic mop tops and Chelsea boots, the Vox amps and Chesterfield suits… it’s all here, as are each tiny vocal inflection and witty Beatles quip, all meticulously studied on this Magical Mystery trip and multi-media show that is an absolute must-see for Beatle fans of all ages.
"Less a Tribute more a reincarnation"
- The Daily Telegraph
"Mind-bogglingly authentic"
- The Mail on Sunday
"Entirely Convincing" - The Times
Tickets are available now from the venues or at: https://bootlegbeatles.com/gigs/
The iconic mop tops and Chelsea boots, the Vox amps and Chesterfield suits… it’s all here, as are each tiny vocal inflection and witty Beatles quip, all meticulously studied on this Magical Mystery trip and multi-media show that is an absolute must-see for Beatle fans of all ages.
"Less a Tribute more a reincarnation"
- The Daily Telegraph
"Mind-bogglingly authentic"
- The Mail on Sunday
"Entirely Convincing" - The Times
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Welsh melodic rock band Mojo have released a new single entitled 'Y Cariad Sy'n Dal yn Gryf' ('The Love is Still as Strong').
The song, the second to be released from the band’s forthcoming new album (scheduled for release toward the end of the year) is about how love can grow and stay strong through the ups and downs of life.
With its summertime vibe, lyrical positivity and special guest Keith Donald (Moving Hearts) on saxophone, the new single proves Mojo are still as strong as the love espoused on the song.
The song, the second to be released from the band’s forthcoming new album (scheduled for release toward the end of the year) is about how love can grow and stay strong through the ups and downs of life.
With its summertime vibe, lyrical positivity and special guest Keith Donald (Moving Hearts) on saxophone, the new single proves Mojo are still as strong as the love espoused on the song.
Mojo are: Bedwyr Morgan (lead & backing vocals, guitars), Gerallt Williams (guitars, backing vocals, programming), Peter Elias Jones (drums/percussion), Huw Smith (keyboards), Tony Parisella (bass).
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Following the recent release of double live album Fire In The Night, British rock band CATS in SPACE have announced the release of their highly anticipated new studio album, Time Machine.
Available on CD, Vinyl, Download & Streaming from October 25th via Cherry Red Records’ Esoteric Antenna label, the 15 (on CD) new tracks promise to delight CATS fans with their 70s-infused classic rock and power-pop sound, building on the success of their previous albums.
"After the success of our double live album, we knew we had to deliver something extraordinary," says guitarist Greg Hart. "Time Machine offers an upbeat, positive message with grandiose production and unexpected musical twists!"
Time Machine encapsulates the band’s heady, harmony-laden blend of classic rock, power pop, and glam rock. Fans will revel in the rich harmonies, melodic guitar riffs and anthemic choruses that hark back to the 1970s and 1980s, drawing inspiration from legends such as Queen, ELO, Supertramp, Styx and Cheap Trick. In short, a nostalgic yet contemporary rock experience that is both fresh and timeless.
Track Listing:
1 Time Machine; 2 My Father’s Eyes; 3 Crashing Down; 4 Occam’s Razor (Not the End of the World); 5 Forever and Ever; 6 Ivory Anthem; 7 Run for Your Life; 8 This Velvet Rush;
9 Yesterday’s Sensation; 10 Immortal; 11 When Love Collides
CD Edition Bonus tracks:
12 No Regrets; 13 Music; 14 How Does it Feel; 15 This Velvet Rush (Ghost mix)
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Available on CD, Vinyl, Download & Streaming from October 25th via Cherry Red Records’ Esoteric Antenna label, the 15 (on CD) new tracks promise to delight CATS fans with their 70s-infused classic rock and power-pop sound, building on the success of their previous albums.
"After the success of our double live album, we knew we had to deliver something extraordinary," says guitarist Greg Hart. "Time Machine offers an upbeat, positive message with grandiose production and unexpected musical twists!"
Time Machine encapsulates the band’s heady, harmony-laden blend of classic rock, power pop, and glam rock. Fans will revel in the rich harmonies, melodic guitar riffs and anthemic choruses that hark back to the 1970s and 1980s, drawing inspiration from legends such as Queen, ELO, Supertramp, Styx and Cheap Trick. In short, a nostalgic yet contemporary rock experience that is both fresh and timeless.
Track Listing:
1 Time Machine; 2 My Father’s Eyes; 3 Crashing Down; 4 Occam’s Razor (Not the End of the World); 5 Forever and Ever; 6 Ivory Anthem; 7 Run for Your Life; 8 This Velvet Rush;
9 Yesterday’s Sensation; 10 Immortal; 11 When Love Collides
CD Edition Bonus tracks:
12 No Regrets; 13 Music; 14 How Does it Feel; 15 This Velvet Rush (Ghost mix)
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YES guitarist Steve Howe will release his new solo album Guitarscape on 27th September on his own HoweSound label.
The album, which will be available on CD, Vinyl and Digitally as Dolby Atmos, can be pre-ordered here: https://lnk.to/hkKdov
Guitarscape marks a new chapter for Steve Howe as a solo artist as he presents what amounts to a guitar masterclass of fourteen new instrumental tracks written and produced by Howe, from rock through to acoustic and classical.
On the album Steve plays acoustic, electric, steel and bass guitars and keyboards; the featured drummer is Steve’s son, Dylan.
"This album has given me the opportunity to do something different," says Steve How.
"I bought a Novatron Summit keyboard and found that it had a wealth of inspiring sounds. It gave me a golden opportunity to create chordal movements and keyboard structures that I thought were a bit different. I’ve utilised most of the colours, as I like to I think of my styles, and I’m always pleased when I hear them running through and it moves from a steel, maybe, to a Spanish guitar.
Because it’s a different sort of album I’m not using terribly conventional chord sequences, but things that give me a fresh feeling and opportunities to improvise and stretch out, as well as be melodic."
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The album, which will be available on CD, Vinyl and Digitally as Dolby Atmos, can be pre-ordered here: https://lnk.to/hkKdov
Guitarscape marks a new chapter for Steve Howe as a solo artist as he presents what amounts to a guitar masterclass of fourteen new instrumental tracks written and produced by Howe, from rock through to acoustic and classical.
On the album Steve plays acoustic, electric, steel and bass guitars and keyboards; the featured drummer is Steve’s son, Dylan.
"This album has given me the opportunity to do something different," says Steve How.
"I bought a Novatron Summit keyboard and found that it had a wealth of inspiring sounds. It gave me a golden opportunity to create chordal movements and keyboard structures that I thought were a bit different. I’ve utilised most of the colours, as I like to I think of my styles, and I’m always pleased when I hear them running through and it moves from a steel, maybe, to a Spanish guitar.
Because it’s a different sort of album I’m not using terribly conventional chord sequences, but things that give me a fresh feeling and opportunities to improvise and stretch out, as well as be melodic."
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Following hot on the heels of his recently released and best to date album Darkness Before Dawn (click here for FabricationsHQ's Feature Review), Nu-Blues singer-songwriter-guitarist Ben Hemming has released a new song entitled 'Thorns,' which itself follows previous single, the brooding and lyrically self-empowering 'The One.'
Of the new single, which lyrically cries to "looking for epiphany," Ben Hemming says:
"When I first came up with the riff for this one I knew I’d written a banging track; the song starts from a powerful electric guitar riff then explodes into life and takes the lister on a journey from rock to grunge then back again."
Of the new single, which lyrically cries to "looking for epiphany," Ben Hemming says:
"When I first came up with the riff for this one I knew I’d written a banging track; the song starts from a powerful electric guitar riff then explodes into life and takes the lister on a journey from rock to grunge then back again."
'Thorns' was recorded at Masterlink Productions in rural Send just outside of Woking, where Ben Hemming worked once again with regular collaborator and producer James Welsh.
"I feel I’ve found a fantastic working environment," continues Ben. "It enables me to have the confidence to push what I do, as well as providing security and familiarity in the working process."
'Thorns' and 'The One' will feature on Ben Hemming's next album, currently scheduled for May of next year.
"A unique musical identity" (The Blues Magazine)
"Songs of bleak beauty" (Blues Blast Magazine)
"This is a new Blues" (Americana U.K.)
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"I feel I’ve found a fantastic working environment," continues Ben. "It enables me to have the confidence to push what I do, as well as providing security and familiarity in the working process."
'Thorns' and 'The One' will feature on Ben Hemming's next album, currently scheduled for May of next year.
"A unique musical identity" (The Blues Magazine)
"Songs of bleak beauty" (Blues Blast Magazine)
"This is a new Blues" (Americana U.K.)
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Noted contemporary hard rockers Stone Broken have released a new single entitled 'Remedy,' which featured in the band’s recent short run of UK summer headline shows.
(Further UK tour dates, as special guests to Delain, will follow in November).
Released on their new label 7Hz Recordings/ ADA, 'Remedy' is a typically hi-energy and sonically bristling Stone Broken anthem.
It also signals a re-energized spark from Stone Broken, heralding a new chapter for a band that has risen from humble beginnings to touring the US and across Europe with many high-profile rock luminaries, as well as gracing major rock festival along the way.
For the single, the band once again worked with award-winning producer Dan Weller (Enter Shikari, Holding Absence, Bury Tomorrow).
"We teamed up again with Dan to create the next chapter of Stone Broken, and whilst in the studio we seem to have captured the perfect storm," says vocalist/ guitarist Rich Moss.
"Remedy delves in to the struggles and pressures that life can bring" continues Rich. "I’ve been quite open about the fact I have had struggles myself when we have played live shows recently; sometimes opening up about something is the hardest thing to do, it’s even harder to admit to yourself that you are not okay, we just want people to know that they are not alone."
(Further UK tour dates, as special guests to Delain, will follow in November).
Released on their new label 7Hz Recordings/ ADA, 'Remedy' is a typically hi-energy and sonically bristling Stone Broken anthem.
It also signals a re-energized spark from Stone Broken, heralding a new chapter for a band that has risen from humble beginnings to touring the US and across Europe with many high-profile rock luminaries, as well as gracing major rock festival along the way.
For the single, the band once again worked with award-winning producer Dan Weller (Enter Shikari, Holding Absence, Bury Tomorrow).
"We teamed up again with Dan to create the next chapter of Stone Broken, and whilst in the studio we seem to have captured the perfect storm," says vocalist/ guitarist Rich Moss.
"Remedy delves in to the struggles and pressures that life can bring" continues Rich. "I’ve been quite open about the fact I have had struggles myself when we have played live shows recently; sometimes opening up about something is the hardest thing to do, it’s even harder to admit to yourself that you are not okay, we just want people to know that they are not alone."
'Remedy' is now available on all streaming services.
Order here: https://ada.lnk.to/StoneBroken
Stone Broken - Special Guests to Delain:
15th November - The Garage, Glasgow
16th November - KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton
18th November - The Limelight 2, Belfast
19th November - The Academy, Dublin
21st November - New Century, Manchester
22nd November - SWX, Bristol
23rd November - Electric Ballroom, London
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Order here: https://ada.lnk.to/StoneBroken
Stone Broken - Special Guests to Delain:
15th November - The Garage, Glasgow
16th November - KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton
18th November - The Limelight 2, Belfast
19th November - The Academy, Dublin
21st November - New Century, Manchester
22nd November - SWX, Bristol
23rd November - Electric Ballroom, London
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UK based singer-songwriter Kay Iris, accompanied by accomplished instrumentalist and songwriter Matt Patmore, has released a new single entitled 'Dead Man Walking.'
The song, which follows previous single 'A Tale of Fate,' is a story driven, contemporary Americana styled number with a cinematic vibe inspired by Quentin Tarantino soundtracks and the Spaghetti Western scores of Sergio Leone.
Lyrically the song tells the tale of the last days of a remorseful outlaw running from justice.
The song, which follows previous single 'A Tale of Fate,' is a story driven, contemporary Americana styled number with a cinematic vibe inspired by Quentin Tarantino soundtracks and the Spaghetti Western scores of Sergio Leone.
Lyrically the song tells the tale of the last days of a remorseful outlaw running from justice.
Taking inspiration from Joni Mitchell, The Doobie Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band and Fleetwood Mac, singer-songwriter, guitarist and activist Kay Iris, along with instrumentalist Matt Patmore, aim to inspire and empower through their music.
Their signature sound incorporates folk, country, Americana and rock, accompanied by ethereal vocals, memorable riffs and thought-provoking lyrics.
Previous single 'A Tale of Fate' was inspired by the Greek story myth of Zeus splitting soul mates in two, fearful of their power together.
The sound and subject matter of the song combine dreamy, ethereal vocals with groovy, jazz-inflected instrumentation, as the narrator navigates the eternal question: Is love a Tale of Fate?
Creating sounds for sustainability, the pair intend to use their musical platform to help promote sustainable and ethical lifestyle choices.
Past projects include their One Tank One Tree tour, in which they partnered with Tree Nation to donate trees to reforestation projects, based on how far they travelled.
Looking forward, they hope to attain a line of sustainable and ethically sourced merchandise, perform at ecofriendly festivals such as The Vegan Campout, Into The Wild and Black Deer Festival, and support conservational charities and venues.
"Kay captivates with her incomparable voice and stellar writing" - Pete Smith, Producer (Sting, Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker)
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Their signature sound incorporates folk, country, Americana and rock, accompanied by ethereal vocals, memorable riffs and thought-provoking lyrics.
Previous single 'A Tale of Fate' was inspired by the Greek story myth of Zeus splitting soul mates in two, fearful of their power together.
The sound and subject matter of the song combine dreamy, ethereal vocals with groovy, jazz-inflected instrumentation, as the narrator navigates the eternal question: Is love a Tale of Fate?
Creating sounds for sustainability, the pair intend to use their musical platform to help promote sustainable and ethical lifestyle choices.
Past projects include their One Tank One Tree tour, in which they partnered with Tree Nation to donate trees to reforestation projects, based on how far they travelled.
Looking forward, they hope to attain a line of sustainable and ethically sourced merchandise, perform at ecofriendly festivals such as The Vegan Campout, Into The Wild and Black Deer Festival, and support conservational charities and venues.
"Kay captivates with her incomparable voice and stellar writing" - Pete Smith, Producer (Sting, Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker)
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Guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso has released a brand new song entitled 'Paul Position,' in honour of American rock guitarist, Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big, Racer X, solo).
Talking about the song and its influences, Sicilian native Mancuso says "I wrote it some days after receiving this wonderful Baritone Guitar (as seen on the video) from Bacci. It's called 'Paul Position' because I was inspired by one of my favourite players, Mr. Paul Gilbert. You may recognize some of his signature licks in the solo section!"
Recorded four years ago during lockdown, the song also features Stefano India (bass) and Giuseppe Bruno (drums).
Talking about the song and its influences, Sicilian native Mancuso says "I wrote it some days after receiving this wonderful Baritone Guitar (as seen on the video) from Bacci. It's called 'Paul Position' because I was inspired by one of my favourite players, Mr. Paul Gilbert. You may recognize some of his signature licks in the solo section!"
Recorded four years ago during lockdown, the song also features Stefano India (bass) and Giuseppe Bruno (drums).
The extraordinarily talented Matteo Mancuso released his outstanding and critically acclaimed debut album, The Journey, in 2023.
The YouTube sensation has adorned the front cover of magazines such as Guitar Techniques ("The Hottest Guitarist on the Planet") and Total Guitar ("The World's Hottest Virtuoso").
He has picked up plaudits from some of the world's most iconic players including Steve Vai, Al Di Meola, Dweezil Zappa, Joe Bonamassa and Tosin Abasi.
In January of this year Mancuso completed a sold-out tour of the US and recently opened for the legendary Marcus Miller.
He has performed with Tommy Emmanuel in Palermo, shared the stage with Al Di Meola on classical guitar (at the closing night of the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival), played the Lugano Jazz Festival in Switzerland (as a guest with prog-rockers PFM), and performed at the New Ross Guitar Festival in Ireland.
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The YouTube sensation has adorned the front cover of magazines such as Guitar Techniques ("The Hottest Guitarist on the Planet") and Total Guitar ("The World's Hottest Virtuoso").
He has picked up plaudits from some of the world's most iconic players including Steve Vai, Al Di Meola, Dweezil Zappa, Joe Bonamassa and Tosin Abasi.
In January of this year Mancuso completed a sold-out tour of the US and recently opened for the legendary Marcus Miller.
He has performed with Tommy Emmanuel in Palermo, shared the stage with Al Di Meola on classical guitar (at the closing night of the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival), played the Lugano Jazz Festival in Switzerland (as a guest with prog-rockers PFM), and performed at the New Ross Guitar Festival in Ireland.
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Some of the biggest names on the UK Blues scene are coming together in a special one-day festival to celebrate the history of British Blues and raise money for a great, charitable cause.
The legendary Dr Feelgood, Paul Jones, Mollie Marriott, and many others will be performing as part of MILKFEST '25 at the Indigo at The O2 on Sunday 23rd February next year, all to raise money for the Brain Tumour Charity.
The concert is the idea of UK blues band The Milk Men, who will open the festival; Manfred Mann legend Paul Jones will compere the event, as well as performing with his blues buddy Dave Kelly.
Also on the bill will be UK Top 10 albums act When Rivers Meet, the Cinelli Brothers and Jo Harman, who will perform an exclusive tribute to the women in UK blues, soul and more.
Other names and surprise guests will be added to the bill.
Milkfest will run from 3pm to 11pm, with a special readmission policy allowing ticketholders to pass in and out of the venue leaving them free to enjoy the O2's restaurants, bars and shops throughout the day.
Milk Men guitarist and event organiser Adam Norsworthy said "The British Blues scene is very healthy and vibrant at the moment. We want to celebrate the music in all its different forms by bringing together some of the best acts we have seen and played with over the years, for a good cause.
Brain Tumour funding is criminally low for a disease which is tragically taking more lives – many of them under 40. We are keen to raise awareness of this issue at the same time as celebrating this wonderful music."
The legendary Dr Feelgood, Paul Jones, Mollie Marriott, and many others will be performing as part of MILKFEST '25 at the Indigo at The O2 on Sunday 23rd February next year, all to raise money for the Brain Tumour Charity.
The concert is the idea of UK blues band The Milk Men, who will open the festival; Manfred Mann legend Paul Jones will compere the event, as well as performing with his blues buddy Dave Kelly.
Also on the bill will be UK Top 10 albums act When Rivers Meet, the Cinelli Brothers and Jo Harman, who will perform an exclusive tribute to the women in UK blues, soul and more.
Other names and surprise guests will be added to the bill.
Milkfest will run from 3pm to 11pm, with a special readmission policy allowing ticketholders to pass in and out of the venue leaving them free to enjoy the O2's restaurants, bars and shops throughout the day.
Milk Men guitarist and event organiser Adam Norsworthy said "The British Blues scene is very healthy and vibrant at the moment. We want to celebrate the music in all its different forms by bringing together some of the best acts we have seen and played with over the years, for a good cause.
Brain Tumour funding is criminally low for a disease which is tragically taking more lives – many of them under 40. We are keen to raise awareness of this issue at the same time as celebrating this wonderful music."
Claire Howells from the Brain Tumour Charity added: "Some incredible performers are throwing their musical weight behind Milkfest '25 and we’re extremely grateful for their support.
Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of the under 40s and, unlike other cancers, survival rates have not improved over the last 40 years. We are leading the way in changing this.
Through the efforts of all those working towards Milkfest we can change these shocking statistics in the future and bring hope to the thousands of people who are diagnosed with a brain tumour every year."
Richard Dunning from the UK Blues Federation says of the event: "Once again the UK blues community comes together to show their commitment to doing good.
The UK Blues Federation are delighted to be involved in this event and for such a worthy cause."
Every two hours someone in the UK is diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Brain tumours continue to kill more children and people under 40 than any other cancer, yet brain tumour research represents just 1.37% of national spend on cancer.
Tickets are on sale now, available from the venue and the following link:
https://www.eventim.co.uk/event/milkfest-25-indigo2-18892377/?affiliate=3AA
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Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of the under 40s and, unlike other cancers, survival rates have not improved over the last 40 years. We are leading the way in changing this.
Through the efforts of all those working towards Milkfest we can change these shocking statistics in the future and bring hope to the thousands of people who are diagnosed with a brain tumour every year."
Richard Dunning from the UK Blues Federation says of the event: "Once again the UK blues community comes together to show their commitment to doing good.
The UK Blues Federation are delighted to be involved in this event and for such a worthy cause."
Every two hours someone in the UK is diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Brain tumours continue to kill more children and people under 40 than any other cancer, yet brain tumour research represents just 1.37% of national spend on cancer.
Tickets are on sale now, available from the venue and the following link:
https://www.eventim.co.uk/event/milkfest-25-indigo2-18892377/?affiliate=3AA
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Australian Hammond & Whammy Clavinet maestro Lachy Doley has released the first single from forthcoming Live In Paris album, which will be released later this year.
'Downtown Smalltown,' originally from The Lachy Doley Group’s 2015 album Conviction and extended here in the live environment, features bassist Joel Burton and drummer Jackie Barnes hitting a serious groove while Doley is in full bodied and full throated attack on the driving, funk-infused blues rocker.
You can check out the single below/ on YouTube, or listen to the song on other platforms by clicking here.
'Downtown Smalltown,' originally from The Lachy Doley Group’s 2015 album Conviction and extended here in the live environment, features bassist Joel Burton and drummer Jackie Barnes hitting a serious groove while Doley is in full bodied and full throated attack on the driving, funk-infused blues rocker.
You can check out the single below/ on YouTube, or listen to the song on other platforms by clicking here.
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Canadian roots, rock and soul band Bywater Call have released a new single entitled 'Everybody Knows.'
Stream the single here: https://linktr.ee/bywatercall
The new single, recorded & mixed by Bywater Call drummer Bruce McCarthy at BeatFarm in Toronto, is a southern rock, soul and gospel number that sees singer Meghan Parnell channel her inner Arthetha Franklin.
"Told in three vignettes, connected by the chorus of 'everybody knows the bed they sleep in,' this song is about how you can tell yourself whatever you want to hear, whatever makes you feel better," says guitarist Dave Barnes, "but ultimately, the truth is always waiting for you at the end of the day."
Stream the single here: https://linktr.ee/bywatercall
The new single, recorded & mixed by Bywater Call drummer Bruce McCarthy at BeatFarm in Toronto, is a southern rock, soul and gospel number that sees singer Meghan Parnell channel her inner Arthetha Franklin.
"Told in three vignettes, connected by the chorus of 'everybody knows the bed they sleep in,' this song is about how you can tell yourself whatever you want to hear, whatever makes you feel better," says guitarist Dave Barnes, "but ultimately, the truth is always waiting for you at the end of the day."
The new single follows the 2023 single releases 'Sweet Maria,' and 'For All We Know, and this year's offerings 'Holler,' 'Roll, and 'As If.'
All six songs feature on the band's new album Shepherd, which was released on the 9th of August.
Bywater Call’s music is a rootsy journey through human experience, incorporating influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly And The Family Stone, and New Orleans, Mississippi & Delta blues.
Bywater Call will be on tour in the UK through October, when they will also headline Blues Power Live at Dingwalls in London on the 25th. The event also features These Wicked Rivers and Lauern Housley & The Nothern Cowboys.
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Bywater-Call.htm and https://bywatercall.com/
Blues Power Live: https://thegigcartel.seetickets.com/event/bywater-call/dingwalls/2963164
Full October Dates Listing:
Manchester, Academy 3 - Wednesday 16th
Cardiff, Globe - Thursday 17th
Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Friday 18th
Leeds, Brudenell - Saturday 19th
Glasgow, Oran Mor - Sunday 20th
Newcastle, The Cluny - Tuesday 22nd
Sheffield, Corporation - Wednesday 23rd
Norwich, Waterfront Studios - Thursday 24th
London, Dingwalls - "Blues Power Live,"
(with special guests These Wicked Rivers and Lauren Housley & The Northern Cowboys) -
Friday 25th
Newbury, Arlington Arts - Saturday 26th
Sittingbourne, Bourne Music Club - Sunday 27th
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All six songs feature on the band's new album Shepherd, which was released on the 9th of August.
Bywater Call’s music is a rootsy journey through human experience, incorporating influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly And The Family Stone, and New Orleans, Mississippi & Delta blues.
Bywater Call will be on tour in the UK through October, when they will also headline Blues Power Live at Dingwalls in London on the 25th. The event also features These Wicked Rivers and Lauern Housley & The Nothern Cowboys.
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Bywater-Call.htm and https://bywatercall.com/
Blues Power Live: https://thegigcartel.seetickets.com/event/bywater-call/dingwalls/2963164
Full October Dates Listing:
Manchester, Academy 3 - Wednesday 16th
Cardiff, Globe - Thursday 17th
Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Friday 18th
Leeds, Brudenell - Saturday 19th
Glasgow, Oran Mor - Sunday 20th
Newcastle, The Cluny - Tuesday 22nd
Sheffield, Corporation - Wednesday 23rd
Norwich, Waterfront Studios - Thursday 24th
London, Dingwalls - "Blues Power Live,"
(with special guests These Wicked Rivers and Lauren Housley & The Northern Cowboys) -
Friday 25th
Newbury, Arlington Arts - Saturday 26th
Sittingbourne, Bourne Music Club - Sunday 27th
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The Georgia Thunderbolts have released a new lyric video for their song 'Crawling My Way Back To You.' The song is lifted from their new album Rise Above It All, which was released on August 23rd via Mascot Records.
Talking about 'Crawling My Way Back To You,' singer TJ Lyle says "This song could be about a lot of different things but everyone will gravitate toward a relationship, naturally. I remember when I wrote this song, I was in a bad place mentally. Didn’t want to get out of bed; couldn’t live in the moment for thinking about what needed to be done in the future.
To me the song is honest and open about my relationships with music and other life-changing experiences. Like a love hate thing. I had lost myself and my fire to be honest. This song gave me the inspiration to keep digging and find out more about my creative and personal side. Maybe it can do that for someone else."
Talking about 'Crawling My Way Back To You,' singer TJ Lyle says "This song could be about a lot of different things but everyone will gravitate toward a relationship, naturally. I remember when I wrote this song, I was in a bad place mentally. Didn’t want to get out of bed; couldn’t live in the moment for thinking about what needed to be done in the future.
To me the song is honest and open about my relationships with music and other life-changing experiences. Like a love hate thing. I had lost myself and my fire to be honest. This song gave me the inspiration to keep digging and find out more about my creative and personal side. Maybe it can do that for someone else."
New album Rise Above It All features the band's signature blend of Southern rock, blues, and heartfelt Americana, while also capturing the emotional and artistic growth fostered by their years on the road, which has led them to being hailed as the new torchbearers of Southern rock.
But that road hasn’t been as glamorous as you might imagine for The Georgia Thunderbolts – it wasn’t that many years ago that the guys busked at gas stations, fumbled through covers, and drove four hours to Alabama to play to a bartender and a three-legged dog sitting on a barstool.
These days, however, the Rome, Georgia-based quintet – singer TJ Lyle, Zach Everett (bass, classical guitar, vocals), Bristol Perry (drums), Logan Tolbert & Riley Couzzourt (guitars) – are a critically acclaimed, international touring band that have toured or shared the stage with the likes of Black Stone Cherry, Deep Purple, The Marshall Tucker Band, the Allman Betts Band, Blackberry Smoke, The Kentucky Headhunters, The Steel Woods and The Outlaws.
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But that road hasn’t been as glamorous as you might imagine for The Georgia Thunderbolts – it wasn’t that many years ago that the guys busked at gas stations, fumbled through covers, and drove four hours to Alabama to play to a bartender and a three-legged dog sitting on a barstool.
These days, however, the Rome, Georgia-based quintet – singer TJ Lyle, Zach Everett (bass, classical guitar, vocals), Bristol Perry (drums), Logan Tolbert & Riley Couzzourt (guitars) – are a critically acclaimed, international touring band that have toured or shared the stage with the likes of Black Stone Cherry, Deep Purple, The Marshall Tucker Band, the Allman Betts Band, Blackberry Smoke, The Kentucky Headhunters, The Steel Woods and The Outlaws.
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Guitar virtuoso Orianthi has released a new single entitled 'Ghost.'
The song, a soulful, gospel-tinged power-ballad that adds a new texture to the Australian born, Los Angeles based musician's repertoire, follows previous single (and first release since signing to Woodward Avenue Records) 'First Time Blues,' which featured longtime friend Joe Bonamassa.
Of the new single, Orianthi says "Ghost is about a love that didn’t last long, but the memories haunt every time you feel love again, thinking it will leave you out of nowhere.
I guess we have all felt that… when you look back you realize all the signs were there but didn’t pay attention to intuition, which is our strongest life compass."
The song, a soulful, gospel-tinged power-ballad that adds a new texture to the Australian born, Los Angeles based musician's repertoire, follows previous single (and first release since signing to Woodward Avenue Records) 'First Time Blues,' which featured longtime friend Joe Bonamassa.
Of the new single, Orianthi says "Ghost is about a love that didn’t last long, but the memories haunt every time you feel love again, thinking it will leave you out of nowhere.
I guess we have all felt that… when you look back you realize all the signs were there but didn’t pay attention to intuition, which is our strongest life compass."
Orianthi began playing professionally when she was 13; she has since performed and toured with Carlos Santana, Steve Vai, Alice Cooper, Richie Sambora and Dave Stewart.
She was hired by Michael Jackson for his This Is It Tour before his untimely death (she appeared in Jackson’s documentary concert film This Is It), accompanied Carrie Underwood during a Grammy Awards telecast, and performed on American Idol.
She was also a member of supergroup Hollywood Vampires, featuring Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp and Tommy Henriksen.
Orianthi’s has issued six solo albums to date (five studio albums and one live release), the latest of which is 2022’s Rock Candy.
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She was hired by Michael Jackson for his This Is It Tour before his untimely death (she appeared in Jackson’s documentary concert film This Is It), accompanied Carrie Underwood during a Grammy Awards telecast, and performed on American Idol.
She was also a member of supergroup Hollywood Vampires, featuring Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp and Tommy Henriksen.
Orianthi’s has issued six solo albums to date (five studio albums and one live release), the latest of which is 2022’s Rock Candy.
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UK Traditional Blues Artist of the Year 2024 Mississippi MacDonald has got Memphis on his mind, as well as in his musical heart and soul.
Since his standout 2023 album Heavy State Loving Blues, MacDonald has been cultivating new roots in the blues capital; spending time in the city and working with writers and producers in two key studios, Royal and Ecko.
The first fruit was a session with Benny Turner at Ecko Records recording studio, resulting in a brand-new single entitled 'Hard Luck And Trouble,' written by Ecko owner and music producer John Ward.
Since his standout 2023 album Heavy State Loving Blues, MacDonald has been cultivating new roots in the blues capital; spending time in the city and working with writers and producers in two key studios, Royal and Ecko.
The first fruit was a session with Benny Turner at Ecko Records recording studio, resulting in a brand-new single entitled 'Hard Luck And Trouble,' written by Ecko owner and music producer John Ward.
Mississippi MacDonald and John Ward spent an afternoon at Ecko last July 2023 talking records, heroes and music; MacDonald subsequently returned to London clutching a newly created song demo.
"Phil Dearing at L Sound and I got straight to work, combining the sounds of the Mississippi and Thames Deltas into our arrangement of the song," says MacDonald. "We've got something fresh, vital and exciting here to go with our hard luck, trouble, and bad signs… as bluesmen, we've got it all!"
"I first encountered Mississippi MacDonald in the studio in Memphis and was immediately impressed by his first rate singing and guitar playing. His first pick from my demos was Hard Luck And Trouble; he really brought the song to life, giving it the full Mississippi MacDonald treatment." - John Ward
'Hard Luck And Trouble' is available now on all digital/ streaming platforms.
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"Phil Dearing at L Sound and I got straight to work, combining the sounds of the Mississippi and Thames Deltas into our arrangement of the song," says MacDonald. "We've got something fresh, vital and exciting here to go with our hard luck, trouble, and bad signs… as bluesmen, we've got it all!"
"I first encountered Mississippi MacDonald in the studio in Memphis and was immediately impressed by his first rate singing and guitar playing. His first pick from my demos was Hard Luck And Trouble; he really brought the song to life, giving it the full Mississippi MacDonald treatment." - John Ward
'Hard Luck And Trouble' is available now on all digital/ streaming platforms.
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Birmingham based blues-rock soul trio Blue Nation (Neil Murdoch - guitar, vocals; Luke Weston - bass, backing/ harmony vocals; Oli Jefferson - drums, percussion) explore the depths of human experience with new single 'Time is a Thief.'
The song, featuring a soulfully focussed vocal from Neil Murdoch and complementary harmonies from Luke Weston, lyrically faces the reality of a loved one battling a life-threatening illness, with a narrative running from fear and despair to acceptance and relief.
Never has a song title been more apt. Time is a Thief, but enduring love can never be taken away.
The song, featuring a soulfully focussed vocal from Neil Murdoch and complementary harmonies from Luke Weston, lyrically faces the reality of a loved one battling a life-threatening illness, with a narrative running from fear and despair to acceptance and relief.
Never has a song title been more apt. Time is a Thief, but enduring love can never be taken away.
Blue Nation, who recently did an interview with CNN to over 20 million viewers, has graced the Main Music Stage at the F1 British Grand Prix in Silverstone, not once but twice.
Their musical journey includes tours and gigs alongside giants such as Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy), Dom Martin and Laurence Jones, to name but five.
Notable accolades include their victory on The Introducing Stage at The Great British Rock & Blues Festival, spotlighted as Ones to Watch by Planet Rock and securing a top five finalist position in the UK Blues Awards Emerging Act of the Year 2023 category.
2018's The Kaftan Society was an excellent, classic meets contemporary fusion of the rock-blues-soul sound, but the band’s pledge to take themselves, and their songs, to the next level is bearing fruit with recent EPs Echoes and Reflections, and, now, the poignant 'Time is a Thief.' - FabricationsHQ
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Their musical journey includes tours and gigs alongside giants such as Steve Conte (NY Dolls), Skid Row, Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy), Dom Martin and Laurence Jones, to name but five.
Notable accolades include their victory on The Introducing Stage at The Great British Rock & Blues Festival, spotlighted as Ones to Watch by Planet Rock and securing a top five finalist position in the UK Blues Awards Emerging Act of the Year 2023 category.
2018's The Kaftan Society was an excellent, classic meets contemporary fusion of the rock-blues-soul sound, but the band’s pledge to take themselves, and their songs, to the next level is bearing fruit with recent EPs Echoes and Reflections, and, now, the poignant 'Time is a Thief.' - FabricationsHQ
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Acclaimed Swiss based, French singer-songwriter & guitarist Félix Rabin has just released a brand new single, a cover of Bruce Springsteen's 'Dancing In The Dark.'
Of the song, on which he has put his own, distinctive Euro-rock stamp, Rabin says: "About three to four years ago friend introduced me to Springsteen's music. Despite knowing his name and some of his popular songs, I had only scratched the surface of his work and career. Since then, I've immersed myself in his albums, had the privilege of seeing him perform live and began playing and singing some of his songs for myself.
Eventually, Dancing In The Dark found its way into my setlists, often becoming an encore over the past two years.
Upon realising that this iconic track would turn 40 on May 9th, 2024, I felt inspired to record a cover of it."
Of the song, on which he has put his own, distinctive Euro-rock stamp, Rabin says: "About three to four years ago friend introduced me to Springsteen's music. Despite knowing his name and some of his popular songs, I had only scratched the surface of his work and career. Since then, I've immersed myself in his albums, had the privilege of seeing him perform live and began playing and singing some of his songs for myself.
Eventually, Dancing In The Dark found its way into my setlists, often becoming an encore over the past two years.
Upon realising that this iconic track would turn 40 on May 9th, 2024, I felt inspired to record a cover of it."
Félix Rabin will also be releasing a new EP later this year, the long-awaited follow-up to his previous, well received EP, Pogboy.
The forthcoming EP represents a pivotal moment for Rabin, who emphasizes that the songs that make up the EP stretched him as a songwriter, spending considerable time crafting melodies, rhythms and meanings that would best express the ideas and emotions of each track.
'Dancing in the Dark is available now on all digital platforms: https://orcd.co/felixrabinditd
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The forthcoming EP represents a pivotal moment for Rabin, who emphasizes that the songs that make up the EP stretched him as a songwriter, spending considerable time crafting melodies, rhythms and meanings that would best express the ideas and emotions of each track.
'Dancing in the Dark is available now on all digital platforms: https://orcd.co/felixrabinditd
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To coincide with the band's fiftieth anniversary, as celebrated last year, is a new, and long overdue, definitive account of American rock band Journey.
Written and meticulously researched by David Hamilton Golland, Livin' Just To Find Emotion: Journey And The Story Of American Rock, which includes a foreword by San Francisco based music critic & author Joel Selvin, is available now.
Since exploding on the scene in the late 70s, Journey has inspired generations of fans with 'Don’t Stop Believin’' and other hits. Celebrating the band’s fiftieth anniversary, David Hamilton Golland unearths the band’s true and complete story, incorporating exclusive interview material and exhaustive research sources.
A professional historian and Journey fan, Golland dives deep into Journey’s complex biography, dispelling rehashed myths while also showing how race in popular music contributed to their breakout success.
As the economy collapsed and as people abandoned the spirit of Woodstock in the late 70s, Journey used the rhythm of Soul and Motown to speak to the darkness in primarily white teenagers’ lives and inspire them to hope for a better future.
Decades later, the band and their signature song remain classics, and a Filipino lead singer has given a new twist to the ongoing story.
Journey fan Dr. David Hamilton Golland Ph.D. is Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of History at Monmouth University.
He holds a PhD from the City University of New York and an MA from the University of Virginia.
His books, Constructing Affirmative Action: The Struggle for Equal Employment Opportunity (2011) and A Terrible Thing to Waste: Arthur Fletcher and the Conundrum of the Black Republican (2019), have garnered positive reviews in the American Historical Review, the Journal of American History, and the Journal of Southern History, among others.
Purchase direct from the Publisher here or at Amazon US or Amazon UK
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Written and meticulously researched by David Hamilton Golland, Livin' Just To Find Emotion: Journey And The Story Of American Rock, which includes a foreword by San Francisco based music critic & author Joel Selvin, is available now.
Since exploding on the scene in the late 70s, Journey has inspired generations of fans with 'Don’t Stop Believin’' and other hits. Celebrating the band’s fiftieth anniversary, David Hamilton Golland unearths the band’s true and complete story, incorporating exclusive interview material and exhaustive research sources.
A professional historian and Journey fan, Golland dives deep into Journey’s complex biography, dispelling rehashed myths while also showing how race in popular music contributed to their breakout success.
As the economy collapsed and as people abandoned the spirit of Woodstock in the late 70s, Journey used the rhythm of Soul and Motown to speak to the darkness in primarily white teenagers’ lives and inspire them to hope for a better future.
Decades later, the band and their signature song remain classics, and a Filipino lead singer has given a new twist to the ongoing story.
Journey fan Dr. David Hamilton Golland Ph.D. is Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of History at Monmouth University.
He holds a PhD from the City University of New York and an MA from the University of Virginia.
His books, Constructing Affirmative Action: The Struggle for Equal Employment Opportunity (2011) and A Terrible Thing to Waste: Arthur Fletcher and the Conundrum of the Black Republican (2019), have garnered positive reviews in the American Historical Review, the Journal of American History, and the Journal of Southern History, among others.
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"A language works best when we have something interesting to say. Many music teachers never find out what their students have to say; we only tell them what they are supposed to say." - Victor Wooten