SBB IS WORKING ON A NEW STUDIO ALBUM
SBB, a legend of Polish music scene, is working on a new studio album with the working title “Blue Trans”. The band, comprised of the phenomenal composer Józef Skrzek, the excellent guitarist Apostolis Anthimos, and the flawless drummer Gabor Nemeth, plans to release the new material in Autumn 2010 via Metal Mind Productions. They are currently working in ResRublica Studios in Lubrza, again with Sebastian Witkowski, who produced their previous album “Iron Curtain”. The album, released in January 2007, was highly acclaimed by both fans and music media. The trio offered a perfect blend of the sincerity of blues and the freedom of jazz. The music was mature and rich in emotions. It featured sophisticated ballads, perfect guitar solos, oriental and highland sounds, Moogs and Hammonds. SBB is no doubt a legend of Polish music scene. The band was formed in 1971 as Silesian Blues Band. Then, the musicians played for 2 years with Czeslaw Niemen in his group Niemen, to finally return as SBB in 1974. By 1980, Józef Skrzek, Apostolis Anthimos and Jerzy Piotrowski had recorded dozens of albums in Poland and abroad, they played hundreds of concerts all around Europe, sharing stages with Bob Marley (Roskilde Festival '78), Soft Machine, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Charles Mingus Dynasty, Jack Bruce Group, Thin Lizzy, Canned Heat, Omega and Klaus Szultze. In the early 90's they returned in an extended line-up after an almost 10-year break to play a series of concerts in USA. SBB started as a blues band but, fascinated with Mahavishnu Orchestra, soon began to search for new means of expression. Gradually, their music became more and more lyrical and the band started to combine wild, Hendrix-like energy with peaceful, gentle, calm moments. The band soon came up with their own idea of prog-rock, skillfully mixing elements of classical music and jazz-rock instrumental frenzy. The albums that followed showed the band's great evolution, featuring grand and marvelous music. "SBB - Anthology 1974-2004" box and "Lost Tapes, Vol. 1", "Lost Tapes, Vol.2" constituted a certain summary of their career up to that point. The 2004 releases, especially the anthology, were received with real enthusiasm. It was the final "pro" for recording a new album "New Century" and for organizing a worldwide tour. In March 2006, SBB headlined Baja Prog Festival, one of the most important progressive festivals in the world. In late August 2007, Metal Mind Productions released a 20-CD box with Skrzek's complete solo discography. The anthology includes electro-rock songs, film music etc. The year 2007 saw the release of SBB's new album "The Rock". Soon after that, SBB released “Four Decades” DVD. In January 2009, the band returned with a new fantastic album “Iron Curtain”. The band promoted the release on several gigs in Poland. The highlight of the tour took place at Wyspianski Theatre in Katowice, where SBB recorded the show for the “Behind The Iron Curtain” DVD (may 2009).    07/22/2010

HAWKWIND" ANNOUNCE DECEMBER UK TOUR & HAWKFEST
Legendary space rockers Hawkwind will embark on a major UK tour in December 2010 in support of their new studio album "Blood of the Earth". The nationwide tour consists of 13 dates. Tickets are priced at £20, are available from the National Credit Card Hotline 0871 2301101 or can be ordered from www.seetickets.com. The tour kicks off at the Holmfirth Picturedome on Friday Decemeber 3rd. Support for all dates comes from UK rockers "The Jokers". In addition to the UK tour, Hawkwind will appear at "HAWKFEST 2010" next month, which returns to Afton Farm on the Isle Of White. Curated by the members of Hawkwind, Hawkfest takes place between August 27th and 29th. Hawkfest originally came about after the breakdown of the free festival movement in the mid to late 1980's. The band felt that major festivals had lost what made them great. Gone was the intimate, carnival atmosphere and the colourful characters, only to be replaced with huge-scale commercialism. Wanting to get back to the roots of what made festivals so enjoyable, Hawkwind constructed a family friendly event where children could play and explore, whilst parents watched great music, safe in the knowledge that the kids would be safe. Tickets are priced at £70, for further info visit Hawkfest Home Page.. For a full list of dates, high-res images, and further check the link here.     07/22/2010

ANDRAGONIA LAUNCHS VIDEOCLIP FOR "UNDEAD"
Song is part of Secrets In The Mirror, the quintet's debut album. Andragonia, the progressive metal band formed by famous Brazilian music producers, is about to release its debut album. Titled Secrets In The Mirror, the record was officially presented to the Brazilian press during a closed event that happened back in June in Sao Paulo. The event, that was attended by guests and the main Brazilian music journalists, counted with a listening-session of the debut album and a acoustic pocket show, besides the premier of the band's first videoclip. Directed by Plínio Scambora for Pier 66 Produções the videoclip  for the song "Undead", track presented on the debut album, was produced by Daniel de Sá and Thiago Larenttes, ANDRAGONIA's drummer and guitar player, respectively. The recordings happened at Commune Theater, besides some external shootings at Rua da Consolação, one of the main streets in Sao Paulo. The "Undead" videoclip was already viewed by more than 2 thousand people in just 20 days. To watch it, click here. Secrets In The Mirror was recorded at GR Studio (Hori, Cine, Replace, Fake Number, Command6, etc) and brings the tracks "Life Inside", "Draining My Heart", "Shadowmaker", "The Choice", "In Company Of Silence", "Secrets In The Mirror", "Silent Screams", "Pull The Trigger", "Prison Without Walls" and the mentioned "Undead". The album will reach the stores before the end of 2010.    07/22/2010

IGGY/STOOGES AT THE ALL TOMORROW'S P. FESTIVAL - IN THE HANDS OF THE FANS VIDEO SERIES IS BORN
On Friday, September 3rd 2010, Iggy and the Stooges are putting themselves IN THE HANDS OF THE FANS... MVD Entertainment Group has launched the site www.InTheHandsOfTheFans.com to offer fans a once in a lifetime opportunity to film and interview Iggy and the Stooges performing the seminal punk rock masterpiece RAW POWER at the All Tomorrow's Parties Festival on September 3, 2010. Six lucky fans will be chosen by way of a video submission contest to join director Joey Carey on location at the Stardust Theater at Kutchers' Country Club in Monticello, NY. This marks the reunion between Iggy Pop and powerhouse guitarist James Williamson as well as original Stooges drummer Scott "Rock Action" Asheton. Also featuring Mike Watt on bass and Steve Mackay on saxophone. The contest is based on fans submitting short high definition video segments asking Iggy and the Stooges interview questions, or demonstrating why they should win the contest. Winners of the contest will film and interview Iggy and the Stooges at All Tomorrow's Parties. This fan shot footage, along with the contestant video submissions, will be crafted into a high definition longform program, which will be part concert film and part reality TV show about the journey of the fans. "Raw Power is one of the greatest, most dangerous albums in the history of rock and roll" says Ed Seaman, C.O.O. of MVD Entertainment Group.  "We are honored to enable the fans this connection with the band; this will be a dream come true for the winners." IN THE HANDS OF THE FANS will be sustainable as a series; MVD is already deep in discussions with a number of other artists and expects to have five more programs shot within the next six months with new announcements expected any day. The final program for Iggy and the Stooges IN THE HANDS OF THE FANS is expected to release on DVD, BluRay, digital download and broadcast by early 2011. All contestants will receive a special offer to purchase the film early along with some exclusive value added content. A commercial featuring Handsome Dick Manitoba (the Dictators, Little Steven's Underground Garage DJ) and Iggy has been recorded and will be distributed throughout the web via websites, social media networks, blogs, etc. Intro Clip: check here.   07/22/2010

AEON ZEN NEW ALBUM STUDIO COMMING SOON
They have finished recording all the guitars, bass, drums and keyboards and right now they are working on instrumental mixes of the album which they can then lay the vocals on and mix them into. THey have to say, We are extremely pleased so far, these songs are sounding like everything they had hoped for and then some! From the laid back parts, to the proggy crazy parts, to the headbanging parts, it's all sounding great! They've managed to get some pretty crushing guitar tones for the heavy parts and some really nice and pretty tones for cleans through the Line 6 POD XT and Peavy Revalver as well. For the guitars on this album they've actually used a mixture of the Ibanez Universe (as featured on the last Aeon Zen album "A Mind's Portrait") and their lovely new Caparison Dellinger 7 SE. The bass is actually DI'd into IK Multimedia's fantastic Ampeg SVX amp simulator plugin, so that's sounding great too, lots of low end while still retaining all the clarity, just like you would expect from any Ampeg amp. The drums are sounding as good and powerful as ever through the Roland TD-20KX, the dynamics on that kit are outstanding! They actually now have all the vocal tracks back from the singers to go on the album, Michael Eriksen (Circus Maximus), Jem Godfrey (Frost), Andi Kravljaca (Silent Call), Nick D'Virgilio (Spock's Beard), Jonny Tatum (Eumeria) have all contributed their amazing voices to this album, as well as the tracks that they are singing themself. So once they've done these instrumental mixes and got everything sounding nice and consistent there, they will get to work on making these vocals as awesome as they can possibly be. So everything is starting to take a very definite shape. They are very excited and they can't wait for us all to hear this! They hope to start putting up some "making-of the album" videos on youtube soon, so be sure to keep your eyes open for them. Also, there is a brand new Aeon Zen track, entitled Visions (with Andi Kravljaca on vocals) off the new album "The Face of the Unknown", being featured on the cover CD of the upcoming issue of Classic Rock Presents Prog Magazine (Prog 8), so be sure to pick up a copy for the first chance to hear this new, never before heard track. In the mean time, take a listen to this album preview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3A9mBECjqA.   07/22/2010

MAJESTIC NEW ALBUM IN PROGRESS
Late 2009 Majestic started working on a new CD and they are making substantial progress and hope to release this newest journey in the Summer of 2010.  They have brought few new musical guests onto the project, which has been an exciting adventure for them! They would like to introduce to us: Gregg Johns: (Slychosis) Gregg's work with Jeff on the Proximal Distance project proved so positive that they decided to bring him on board to guest on their new CD. Gregg is a gifted multi-instrumentalist and seems to intuitively know just what Majestic needs. Chris Nathe: - Drums. Chris has played drums in a variety of bands since the late 80's. After taking a long hiatus from playing, Chris joined the Majestic project in 2009, and plays an important role that Majestic has not had on its past projects.. a real drummer! They welcome him to their project! Jerry Swan: - Bass. Playing in several bands that vary from Blues to Death Metal, Jerry brings an eclectic aura to the Majestic project. They are happy to have him on board with them! John Wooten: - Drums. John is a professional drummer for hire and has worked with Jessica in the past on rock/metal collaborations. John has been a great supporter of Majestic, and they are excited to have him play on a couple of their songs! Jeremy Hamel: - Guitar. That undeniable Hamel talent flows through the veins of this their youngest guest performer! Jeremy undoubtedly has a wonderful raw talent and they are so proud to bring this young man onto their project!   07/22/2010

GLENN HUGHES ANNOUNCES AUTUMN UK TOUR
Iconic vocalist and bass guitarist, GLENN HUGHES, known to millions of hard rock fans as the undisputed "Voice of Rock" will embark on a 15-date UK tour in September. Formerly the lead singer and bassist of Trapeze, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, and the forthcoming rock supergroup Black Country Communion, Hughes' blistering near-on two hour live extravaganza will consist of an unforgettable career retrospective. "I'm thrilled to embark on the most extensive UK solo tour of my career," says Hughes. "I've just made an album that I am extremely proud of with Black Country Communion, and until that band goes out on the road, I'm channeling all the power and energy from the BCC experience, into these dates. I'm a lean, mean rock machine." Today's announcement coincides with the invitation for Hughes to sing with Heaven & Hell at London's High Voltage festival on Saturday July 24th, in a tribute to their front man, the late, great Ronnie James Dio. Lifelong friends, Ronnie often cited Glenn as his favourite male singer, so it is only fitting that the Voice of Rock will be singing in honour of the Voice of Metal. Read the full online press announcement and download high res photos here. Best known for his distinctive style that effortlessly blends the finest elements of hard rock, soul and funk, Hughes has worked with Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, the KLF, members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and more recently with Jason Bonham, Joe Bonamassa and Derek Sherinian for his new rock supergroup Black Country Communion.    07/22/2010

HELLISH WAR LIVE IN GERMANY FRONT COVER REVEALED
Album was recorded during the first European tour performed by the band in September of last year Live In Germany! This will be the title of the new HELLISH WAR album, the first live effort of the band's carreer.  The album will bring the tracks "Beyond", "Hellish War", "Metal Forever", "Defender Of Metal", "The Sign", "Son Of The King", "Destroyer" and "We Are Living For The Metal", which is already available for listening on the band's Myspace page. Live In Germany was recorded on 18th and 19th September 2009 during the two shows that the band did at "Razorblade Festival" in Datteln, Germany. Both shows were part of the "European First Assault Tour",  the first HELLISH WAR'S European Tour and that included eight dates in countries like Germany, Belgium and Switzerland, counting with two more festivals appearances: "Back To Rock Festival" in Switzerland and the mythical "SwordBrothers Festival", also in Germany. Live In Germany  was captured live by the german sound engineer Oliver Okunneck. The mixing and mastering was left to Vulcano, the band's guitar player. The cover of "Live In Germany" and throughout the booklet artwork was left to Fabio Castro from Tornhate Records, Art & Design. "Working on this project was very rewarding," says Fabio. "It's always an honor to support the national scene, especially when it is well represented outside the country. The material clearly shows charisma and dedication shown by Hellish War during the tour. I thank the entire team for the opportunity."  The credits for the photo on the cover goes to the talented German photographer Jörg Müller. Live In Germany will be released in Brazil until the end of the first semester of 2010.  For Further Information visit Hellish War Home Page.   07/22/2010

FRANK ZAPPA/ PAUL BUFF SUPER RARITIES, UNRELEASED TRACKS ABOUND ON CROSSFIRE’S PAL/ORIGINAL SOUND STUDIOS SERIES!
Crossfire Publications is in the process of releasing a 20-volume series of recordings from the pre-Mothers era, with many unreleased tracks featured. The most notable releases in the series come from Paul Buff, owner of Pal Studios in Cucamonga, California from 1957-1964. The initial six releases took place in March: The Bongo Teens' "Surfin’ Bongos" (mono and stereo), The Hollywood Persuaders' "Drums A-Go-Go" (mono and stereo) and "Singles &Rarities," and "Raw Tracks" featuring both groups. The Bongo Teens featured Buff and fellow Pal associate Dave Aerni (lead guitar), while Buff played nearly all the instruments on the Hollywood Persuaders releases. Crossfire's mammoth series is called "Paul Buff Presents The Pal And Original Sound Studio Archives." At Pal, Buff recorded numerous artists, with The Surfaris' "Wipe Out" as the studio's most known recording. Many other notable artists, including the late Frank Zappa, recorded their earliest work at Pal Studios. "Paul Buff Presents The Pal And Original Sound Studio Archives" will have many highly prized rarities and unreleased tracks drawn from Paul Buff's mixdown tapes and reference discs. The original records represented in the series literally cost hundreds of dollars apiece, reflecting the impressive historical and musical value of Crossfire's series. When the studio was not booked for artists on Buff's record labels (Pal, Emmy, Yukon, Plaza and Vigah!), a rotating crew of musicians, The Pal Studio Band, regularly laid down tracks with the hope of placing them with major record labels. The band featured regular appearances by young guitarist Frank Zappa, who learned recording studio operations from Paul Buff. Records cut by Buff and guitarist Ronnie Williams were issued on Buff's in-house Emmy label as by The Masters, with one track ("Breaktime") featuring overdubbed guitars by Zappa and Williams. Other releases with Zappa involvement from this period include The Penguins, The Hollywood Persuaders, The Tornadoes, Ron Roman, Baby Ray And The Ferns, Brian Lord &The Midnighters, Mr. Clean, The Heartbreakers, Ned And Nelda, Bob Guy, Conrad And The Hurricane Strings, The Cordells, The Rhythm Surfers and Johnny Barakat And The Vestells. Over a half dozen unreleased titles with Zappa as part of The Pal Studio Band will be covered in the series along with the aforementioned singles. Concurrent with his Pal activities, Paul Buff started working with Art Laboe, owner of Original Sound Records. After the sale of Pal Studios to Frank Zappa in August 1964, Buff became Original Sound's studio engineer. Besides recording many Original Sound artists, Buff made his own recordings for the label. This output started in 1963 as The Hollywood Persuaders, followed by The Bongo Teens, The Rotations, The Midnighters, Mr. Clean, The Catalinas, Lori Allison, The Buff Organization, The Friendly Torpedoes (with The Music Machine's Sean Bonniwell) and Ricky Dean. Non-Original Sound clients, such as the entire output of the All-American label (known for Strawberry Alarm Clock's "Incense And Peppermints") as well as Sugarloaf ("Green Eyed Lady"), were engineered by Buff. Three volumes in the Pal/Original Sound series have been released thus far. All in all, 35 albums from Paul Buff’s collection will be represented. In addition to the 20 Pal/Original Sound volumes and the six previously released Bongo Teens and Hollywood Persuaders titles, the following will be released: "Singles &Rarities" by The Masters, five albums of unreleased late '60s tracks by The Buff Organization, a 25-track collection of cuts from Dave Aerni's labels, and two volumes of big band recordings ("Paul Buff Presents Pal Studios' Early Years"). Releases will take place every other week for most of 2010. All of these Crossfire albums will be available through dozens of paid download services. Licensing inquiries for CD release are also being entertained. For more about please4 visit Crossfire Publications.   07/22/2010

JEFF BERLIN THE JAZZ LEGEND WHO WAS ASKED TO JOIN VAN HALEN (AND SAID NO) RELEASES NEW CD
Jeff Berlin is a legend of the electric bass, considered by many to be the finest electric bass player in the world. A true master of the bass, Jeff Berlin has played with the likes of Bill Bruford, George Benson, Allan Holdsworth, and even toured with original members of Yes (Anderson, Wakeman, Bruford, Howe) on only three days' notice. Much to the anticipation of his fans, Jeff is releasing a new jazz trio CD on his own MAJ Records label titled 'High Standards'. Along with Berlin on electric bass, the CD also features Woody Herman alumni Richard Drexler on piano and upright bass, and famed drummer Danny Gottlieb (best known for his work with Pat Metheny). "It is a standard jazz piano trio led by a former rock bass player playing jazz tunes, and soloing nothing like bass players usually solo," says Jeff. "Keith Jarrett is huge influence on me. I transcribed his solos and practiced them on bass. I wanted to try my hand at recording tunes that I have played for many years, which inspired me to record three guys in a room and let the session remain as they eventually turned out." Jeff Berlin's resume reads like the who's who of the higher echelon of music artists. Jeff Berlin was even asked to join Van Halen, an invitation that he actually turned down. "Eddie Van Halen was a fan of the band that I played in with Bill Bruford," Berlin recalls. "We met and started to hang out and jam together. He was a sweet terrific guy. One day he saw me play a gig with my group and then asked me if I would like to join Van Halen. After this, we rehearsed at David Lee Roth's house a couple of times. Ultimately, I said no to his gracious offer because when you join a band, you join the entirety of it, the life philosophy of its members and also the habits that they may be involved with. I felt that, in terms of activities and attitudes, I didn't mesh with their vision of things. I didn't wish to be mercenary and just take the job for money because it wouldn’t be fair to the band members. So, I just said no to the offer." Not only is Jeff Berlin a bass phenomenon in the jazz field, but rock players are constantly referring to him as one of their major influences. Jeff was voted Number 1 Jazz Bassist by the readers of Guitar Player Magazine. Carlos Santana called Jeff the "best bassist in the world", while Rush's Geddy Lee used the phrase "best bassist on the planet!" Members of Metallica call Jeff the number one bassist on Earth, and Slash considers him a "bass god". Actor/bass player Gary Sinise, of "Forrest Gump" and "CSI NY" fame called Jeff’s playing "unreal!" Even the late George Carlin was knocked out with Jeff's playing calling him a "great musician." Jeff is known as a major innovator through his incisive playing through recordings and performances for the last thirty years. The late legend of bass, Jaco Pastorius regarded Jeff as a better soloist than he was, and Miles Davis' bassist/producer Marcus Miller told people that he wanted to be the "Black Jeff Berlin". The founder of The Players School of Music in Clearwater, Florida Jeff started the school when his son got cancer at 5 years old. Jeff retired from playing to stay home with his son, and started The Players School of Music to make a living. (P.S. His son, now 17, was totally cured of the disease.) Jeff has also been at the front of music education for almost 30 years. His column in Guitar Player and Bass Player magazines were the most read columns due to their controversial content of music education. Jeff single handedly has re-vamped music education by dismissing popular methods of learning such as using electronic tuners, metronomes, handgrips, tablature, or any study method that does not include musical content Jeff has released six highly acclaimed solo records, Champion, Pump It!, Taking Notes, In Harmony's Way, Lumpy Jazz and Aneurythms. The Dean Guitar company builds a Jeff Berlin signature model electric bass, and Markbass amplifers built an amp that so impressed Jeff (who regularly turned down endorsement offers for years) that Jeff only plays through their amps in concert. In support of his new CD release, Jeff will be touring with his band that has featured Danny Gottlieb, Othello Molineaux (the greatest steel drummer in the world), Randy Brecker and Richard Drexler. He also tours with BX3, a bass conglomeration that includes the great bass players Stuart Hamm and Billy Sheehan. "Because instrumental music isn't popular anymore, not like it used to be, the amount of people interested in hearing players play simply to enjoy the music is less than it was in the past," Jeff explains. "This is an era where you will never hear another Jimi Hendrix, because, in a great part, the music industry won't allow it. This contempory music era is not interested in allowing a great player be hear or promoted. For this reason I jokingly refer about my shows that when I play, 'The Audient will always be on his foot!' and also regarding my CD, if Michael Jackson's CD's always went "Platinum", my CD will surely go "Wood!" Jeff Berlin's playing continues to influence a new generation of bass players. His teaching continues to inspire and advance players wishing to know about the language of their art. Jeff Berlin is a Master. 'High Standards' is available on CD Baby, Amazon, iTunes, www.audiophileimports.com and other online retailers.    07/22/2010

ANATHEMA AND "WERE HERE BECAUSE WERE HERE" THE LONG AWAITED NEW ALBUM.
Were Here Because Were Here, the long awaited new album from Anathema, is now available to pre-order from the Kscope store. A special mini-site is now online which features a free mp3, downloads, info and more. The album will be released on CD, as a limited 2disc set (CD + DVD-A) and on vinyl. The vinyl edition will be available exclusively from the Kscope store and will ship from May 17th (two weeks before CD release). Limited to 2,000 numbered units, the vinyl edition of the album comes on double 180gms black vinyl in a heavyweight gatefold sleeve with printed inner sleeves. The vinyl edition also comes with a special 'drop card' with a link to a digital download of the album. The album is the first collection of new material from the band since the 2003 album, A Natural Disaster. A multi-coloured, multi-layered work of unbridled emotion, passion, and intensity, the new album has been eagerly anticipated by their legions of fans around the globe. The album has been mixed by Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree), who has described it as definitely among the best albums I've ever had the pleasure to work on. The limited special 2 disc edition of the album comes packaged in a luxurious rigid digibook format and features the album on CD plus a DVD-A with the 5.1 surround sound mix. Both editions are also available as part of album + t-shirt bundles. For more about please visit Anathemas' Mini-Site.    04/27/2010

BO HANSSON SWEDISH KEYBOARD LEGEND PASSES AWAY
Bo Hansson the Swedish organist and composer has passed away at the age of 67. Hansson worked with Janne "Loffe" Karlsson in the duo Hansson & Karlsson in the late 1960s. Hannson & Karlsson were signed by Polydor, playing progressive Hammond organ based music and releasing three albums between 1967 and 1969. They became immensely popular in their home country and Europe, and even reached the ear of Jimi Hendrix, who took time out from his tour to jam with the duo, along with George Clemons on drums and Georg Wadenius on guitar, at the Klub Filips in Stockholm in late 1967. Hendrix went on to record a Hansson song, "Tax Free". The music can be defined as instrumental jazz-rock and psychedelia and the band setting was limited to the drums and organ, without vocals. Hansson is probably best known for his musical interpretation of Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings", entitled 'Music Inspired by Lord Of The Rings. Released on Charisma Records after gaining a cult following in Britain due to import copies filtering over from Sweden, the album was his biggest success, reaching the Top 20 on the UK Album Charts in 1972. Due to his pioneering work with both Hansson & Karlsson and his solo excursions into space rock, in recent years Hannson received the status of a living legend in his native Sweden. For more about click here.    04/27/2010

AFTER IS WORKING ON  NEW ALBUM
New album of After...? They're working even maybe on two CDs. So far They've composed 10 brand new tracks and they're close to finish the demo. Probably They'll release EP with rather quiet, mellow songs and also of course a full lenght album containing music of different character. It's too soon to say anything about the terms and details of our upcoming recordings. They're aching for the work in the studio and concerts. More info at After website.     04/27/2010

ALAN PARSONS RECORDING NEW ALBUM THIS YEAR
Legendary musician/engineer/producer Alan Parsons is still very active after a career that spans four decades. In addition to the release of a new live DVD/CD Eye To Eye ? Live In Madrid, in an interview with Long Live Rock (www.blogtalkradio.com/longliverock) Parsons said that he is considering recording a new studio album this year as well. "I think I probably will make an album over the next twelve months," Parsons told hosts Sterling Whitaker and Jeb Wright. He also divulged the name of one likely guest vocalist. "I think it almost goes without saying that if I make this album, I will definitely get Kip Winger involved in at least one track." The Winger leader has worked with the Alan Parsons Live Project in the past, and in his own interview with Long Live Rock he shared the story of writing a letter to Alan when he was just another young fan, and how he treasured the letter Parsons wrote back for years and years. When he finally got to work with Alan, Kip showed him the actual letter, a story Parsons confirmed. "Thank God I did write back to him," Parsons said with a laugh. "There were a lot of people I didn't write back to. Kip's a lovely guy and a great singer, and a great musical talent. I love him to death." In the meantime there's a new track called "All Our Yesterdays" included on Parsons' new 3 DVD project The Art and Science of Sound Recording, in which the legendary engineer - who began his career as an assistant engineer at Abbey Road working with The Beatles, and went on to score the first of ten Grammy nominations by engineering Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon - interviews many of the top engineers and producers in the world, from rock to country, on the subject of sound recording and production. The film documents the recording process for "All Our Yesterdays" from inception, right up to final mix.     04/27/2010

ROCK IN OPPOSITION 2010 - FRANCE EVENT
A new edition that will explore new directions and cover many genres: from Peter Brötzmann adventurous free jazz to Sleepytime Gorilla Museum's surrealistic metal and Gong's joyful mysticism. And that will feature a few exceptional acts: Art Bears Songbook in French exclusivity and Thierry Zaboïtzeff, a long-time awaited guest who was one of the masterminds behind Art Zoyd, a group that constitutes a reference for the promoters of the Festival. So, here it comes: the official program of the 2010 Rock In Opposition Festival! September 17th - 6.00 PM   OFFICIAL OPENING COCKTAIL (PROFESSIONNALS/PRESS/INSTITUTIONS), 7.00 PM   GENEVIEVE FOCCROULE plays ANTHONY BRAXTON (B), 9.00 PM   CASPAR BROTZMANN MASSAKER  (Germany), 11.00 PM   SLEEPYTIME GORILLA MUSEUM  (USA). September 18th - 3.30 PM   AQUASERGE (F), 5.30 PM   T. ZABOITZEFF  /Cross The Bridge (Austria / France), 8.30 PM   FULL BLAST (Broetzmann - Pliakas - Wertmueller - Williams), (Germany, Switzerland, USA), 10.30 PM   GONG  (UK / Australia / France). September 19th - 3.00 PM  MIRIODOR (Canada), 5.30 PM   THREE FRIENDS plays GENTLE GIANT  (UK), 8.15 PM   JANNICK TOP / INFERNAL MACHINA (France), 10.30 PM   ART BEARS SONGBOOK (UK / USA). Tickets can be booked online on RockTime Site.     04/27/2010

MYSTERY AND "ONE AMONG THE LIVING" THEIR NEW ALBUM
The new MYSTERY CD 'One Among the Living' will be available on Unicorn Digital on May 1st 2010 and available everywhere else on June 1st 2010. You can pre-order your copy now. Orders will start shipping on April 26th. The new album contains 69 minutes of brand new mysterious progressive rock including the 22 minutes suite Through Different Eyes. For One Among the Living, Mystery is joined by Daryl Stuermer (Genesis Phil Collins), Oliver Wakeman (Yes, The Strawbs,), John Jowitt (Frost*, IQ, Arena), Antoine Fafard (Spaced Out), Claire Vezina and Richard Lanthier. The new CD will be released as a digipak with a 28 page booklet. After the success of the 2007 release Beneath the Veil of Winter?s Face, and last year release of the 10th anniversary edition of Destiny? MYSTERY is back with their 6th studio album. One Among the Living track list is: Among the Living, Wolf, Between Love and Hate, Till the Truth Comes Out, Kameleon Man, Through Different Eyes, i) When Sorrow turns to Pain, ii)Apocalyptic Visions of Paradise, iii)So Far Away, iv)The Point of No Return, v)The Silent Scream, vi) Dancing with Butterflies, One Among the Living, The Falling Man, Sailing on a Wing. One Among the Living can be ordered from the Mystery website.     04/27/2010

MYSTERY AND HAMADRYAD ALBUM LAUNCH AT THE OLYMPIA
Montreal-based Mystery, featuring Benoit David, the current lead singer of Yes, along with Hamadryad, will both officially launch their latest releases with a double-bill show on Saturday, May 22 2010 at the Olympia de Montréal (1004 St-Catherine Street East, Montréal ? 514-845-3524). For Mystery, One Among the Living is their 5th studio album, and for Hamadryad, their 4th release is entitled Intrusion. These two québécois bands have been part of the prog rock scene for the past decade and both have a style that is very much their own. Mystery's music has evolved over the years just like a fine wine. The various lineup changes have brought together all the parts that make of them one of the most respected symphonic prog rock bands. With their clever mix of art rock and classic rock, Hamadryad adds a touch of energetic motion, transporting the listeners into an exceptional musical adventure. This show will also celebrate Mystery's return from their highly anticipated gig at RoSFest 2010 in Gettysburg, PA, and Hamadryad's upcoming European tour scheduled to begin in August 2010 where they will headline the prestigious Crescendo festival in France. Both bands will also promote the release of their new albums and will tour throughout Quebec in 2010. The members of both bands will welcome fans to the album launch party before the show, starting at 5:30 PM. Tickets are on sale at the Olympia boxoffice and through Admission and cost $39 / $49.    04/27/2010

MYSTERY LIVE AT  ROSFEST 2010
RoSfest is extremely pleased to announce Montreal-based band Mystery as part of the Rosfest 2010 friday night lineup. Mystery was founded in 1986 by Michel St-Père as a studio project; the project gradually turned into a fully fledged band which successfully toured through Quebec and released several albums which were favorably reviewed by several magazines and websites all over the world. In 1995, Michel founded Unicorn Records to help promote the music of Mystery; the label later became a driving force in progressive rock, highlighting some of the finest bands from inside and outside Canada. After the departure of lead singer Gary Savoie in 1999, St-Père convinced Benoit David, who was then already singing Yes material in a tribute band, to join the band. Besides Michel St-Pere (guitar/bass/keyboards) and Benoit David (vocals), Mystery's lineup onsists of Steve Gagné (drums), Benoit Dupuis (keyboards), Dean Baldwin (guitar/keys) and Francois Fournier (bass). The band released their 5th studio album ?Beneath the Veil of Winter's Face' in 2007, and is currently working on a new release that should be released prior RoSfest 2010. Mystery recently opened the 4th annual FMPM in Montreal with a stellar performance; we expect Mystery to provide a longer and even better performance next spring at RoSfest 2010!     04/27/2010

THE PINEAPPLE THIEF'S SOMEONE HERE IS MISSING PLUS NEW KSCOPE PODCAST
Special edition CD, vinyl and bundles now available to pre-order. Someone Here Is Missing, the new album from The Pineapple Thief, is now available to pre-order from the Kscope store and the album mini-site which also features a free mp3, downloads, info and more. Someone Here Is Missing is the follow up to Tightly Unwound, the critically acclaimed album which launched the Kscope label In April 2008. Bruce Soord, the bands frontman has described it as a record of dark edges, full of love and regret, my life in the last eighteen months pretty much. The nine tracks mark another step forward in the bands progression, as Bruces songwriting continues to evolve and the band grow ever tighter. The album features artwork created by the legendary designer Storm Thorgerson, famous for creating some of the most recognisable artwork of the last 30 years including albums by Pink Floyd (Dark Side Of The Moon, Division Bell, Pulse), Muse, Led Zeppelin, Biffy Clyro and many more. The limited special edition CD of the album comes packaged in a luxurious rigid digibook format and features two bonus tracks. Limited to 2000 numbered units, the vinyl edition of the album come on 180gms black vinyl in a heavyweight gatefold sleeve with an art print on 250gms Tintoretto Gesso Paper and is supplied in a PVC wallet. The vinyl edition also comes with a special 'drop card' with a link to a digital download of the album. The first 250 orders will also come with a pad of exclusive Someone Here is Missing post-it notes which echo the album's artwork. Both editions are also available as part of album + t-shirt bundles (long or short sleeve). "The Pineapple Thief are primed to become an overnight success". For more information, audio samples, videos, downloads and more, go to the mini-site at The Pineapple Thief.    04/11/2010

MOTHERJANE - WINNERS OF BEST INTERNATIONAL ROCK ACT 2009
India's prog rock sensation Motherjane, who took home the Asia Voice Independent Music Award for Best International Rock Act in 2009 are nominated in three AVIMA categories in 2010. This year they are up for Best Rock Band, Best Rock Vocalist and Most Mind Blowing Video for their song 'Broken'. AVIMA 2010 is the world's largest independent music awards even with over 20 countries taking part. For more information and Motherjane audio samples go to the band's official MySpace page, or check the band's official website.     04/11/2010

CRAIG MAHER AND THEIR STYLE “COSMIC CONTEMPORARY"
A fixture in the Metropolitan rock scene for the past ten years, Craig Maher coins his music, “Cosmic Contemporary”; a style that simply draws from his diverse musical background and influences that range from the Cosmic:  the best of the 60's and the early 70's rock scene and its ties to Eastern music, Mysticism, and spirituality; and the Contemporary:  anthemic rock championed by artists such as U2, David Bowie and Lenny Kravitz. Propel is an impressive rock record with concise and hook-heavy songs led by Maher’s tasteful guitar riffs and vocals.  Songs like “Propel” and “Where I Belong” showcases Maher’s keen ability to bridge modern influences with memorable rock hooks and classic song structures that embed Eastern tonality and mystical leanings.  Maher also sheds light on some of his musical inspirations with a triumphant reworking of Nazz’s (Todd Rundgren)“Open My Eyes.”  This album should appeal to fans of the major guitar rock zeniths from the last four decades, ranging from the psychedelic explosion of the Woodstock era, the progressive monoliths of the 70s, to the riff-oriented glam and grunge scenes of the late 80s and early 90s, all with a contemporary edge that sits fittingly in the modern rock landscape. For more about his music please visit Craig Maher Home page.    04/11/2010

LONGSHANKS RELEASE OF THE LAST SONG FOR THEIR ALBUM
They released the last song for their upcoming CD, the 5:08 minutes 'road song' "I Love the Road". It's an up-tempo rock song that'll make you want to push the pedal to the metal! Now onwards to the release of the CD, which is set for April 24th... Read more on their Longshanks news-page, or surf directly to the page containing the new song.    04/11/2010

L.A. GUNS AND SHRINKING VIOLET
If you're Guns-shy, cup your ears and head for the nearest bomb shelter, because L.A.'s hottest pistols have returned - louder and more ferocious than ever! L.A. Gun's "Shrinking Violet" is the debut signing of guitar virtuoso, Steve Vai's Favored Nation's newest Hard Rock/Metal division, Favored Nations/Jibboom. This "Shrinking Violet" Deluxe Reissue also includes live, never before heard bonus tracks, featuring some of the bands biggest hits including "Rip And Tear," "Never Enough," "One More Reason" and "The Ballad of Jayne", completely repackaged with smokin' new artwork. Over a year ago, Vai brought industry vet Dean Schachtel on board as Favored Nations Entertainment's GM. With Schachtel's Hard Rock and Metal background, it made perfect sense to start a new division at the company for Hard Rock and Metal artists. The tech-savvy Schachtel soon established a Facebook page for the label, which led to a correspondence with Tracii Guns and eventually the signing of L.A. Guns to Favored Nations/Jibboom. L.A. Guns may possibly be the first band signed through Facebook! Born in Hollywood, Tracii Guns cut his teeth on Jimmy Page. Only six when he heard "Whole Lotta Love" on the radio, Guns parlayed his Zeppelin-inspired zest into what would become a legendary career. At twelve, an age when most guys are just discovering their equipment, Tracii already formed his first band, which morphed ultimately into L.A. Guns. Many ears, years and lineup changes later, L.A. Guns would go on to sell millions of copies worldwide of their albums "L.A. Guns" and "Cocked and Loaded." The band line-up is Tracii Guns (guitar), Jizzy Pearl (vocals), Jeremy Guns (bass) and drummer Chad Stewart. The original L.A. Guns line-up featured a certain Axl Rose as vocalist, and shortly after he left the band to form Hollywood Rose, Tracii agreed to join him, merging the two bands into Guns 'N' Roses. However, Tracii's tenure with G 'N' R was short-lived, and he returned to his first love, finalizing what is widely regarded as the classic L.A. Guns line-up. L.A. Guns went on to sell more than 6,000,000 albums worldwide entrenching them as one of the most successful glam-metal bands of the era. However, L.A Guns have endured long past those heady days in the 80's and early 90's and, unlike many long since forgotten contemporaries (and a cavalcade of more recent imitators) L.A. Guns are the real deal, accept-no substitutions! L.A. Guns will kick off their world tour in support of the Deluxe Re-issue of Shrinking Violet at the Key Club in Los Angeles, on June 10th. For more about the band and album, please visit L.A. Guns Home page.    04/11/2010

INTENTIONS REBORN WITH NEW KEYBOARDPLAYER
André de Vries, one of the founders of Intentions, has left the band to pursue other passions besides music. The band was sad to see him go, but says the his departure was not unexpected. It became apparent that André no longer wished to keep up with the increasing number of performances and pressure due to the international demand for their debut 'Place in Time'. Intentions has luckily found a worthy replacement with Dirk v/d Plas, who played in several bands including Brooklyn and Screaming Turtles. The footage from the first show with Dirk v/d Plas in 'the Spieghel' in Groningen can be viewed on their Youtube Channel.More about the band and their history please visit Intentions Home Page.    04/11/2010

DEVENTTER AMONG 'THE BEST OF THE YEAR' AND SHOW AT WACKEN METAL BATTLE
Band was largely voted as 'Best of 2009' in the various categories of elections promoted by Brazilian websites and magazines. Progressive, alternative, grunge, thrash metal. For the DEVENTTER musicians, no matter how to sort your music. What really counts is the ability of the band to transmute influences in creative fuel, and make music the purest expression of their feelings, values and philosophy of life. And this musical truth of the band has taken phenomenal effects! The band has often been cited as one of 'most innovative and creative' that have emerged in recent years in the Brazilian scene. Regarding this, the facts are not few! Mike Portnoy, the charismatic Dream Theater drummer, pointed DEVENTTER as one of the biggest revelations from Brazil in the last years! If not enough, DEVENTTER's new album, "Lead... On", was voted "Best National Album" of 2009 by editors and journalists of Metal Club! The album also appears on the readers poll of the same site. In the election promoted among readers of the biggest rock/metal Brazilian magazine, Roadie Crew, Deventter appears as "Best Of The Year" in six categories: Best Vocal, Best Bassist, Best Keyboardist, Best Drummer, Best Cover and Best Album! These various indications as 'Best of 2009' are beginning to bear fruit. DEVENTTER was selected to participate of the Brazilian editon of 'Wacken Metal Battle', the contest that will elect a Brazilian band to perform in Germany in August during the 2010 edition of Wacken Open Air, the largest heavy metal festival in the world! DEVENTTER and four other bands will play on May, 2th at Sebastian Bar in Campinas/SP. The winner will play the semi-finals in Sao Paulo with other regional winners. Lead... On is the second DEVENTTER's album, sucessor of the high acclaimed The 7th Dimension (2007). The album was recorded in São Paulo/SP at Norcal Studios (Dr. Sin, Almah, Andreas Kisser, Astafix, etc) and brings the tracks "O.M.T"; "6000"; "Bunkers & Bankers"; "Reflected"; "All Rights  Removed"; "Transcendence Inc."; "..."; "This Grace"; "Losing Track Of Time"; "Down To The Apex" and "Lead...Off". Lead... On was officialy presented to the Brazilian press in August 2009 during a listening-session organized at a charming art gallery in São Paulo called Coletivo Galeria. It was attended by journalists and critics of the most important Brazilian music vehicles. For Further Information visit Deventter Home Page.    04/11/2010

MIKE CORRADO AND HIS NEW ALBUM COMMING SOON
The new album Stand is almost done. It features brand new songs and includes contributions from artists and friends such as Edwin McCain, Spencer Rush, Larry Chaney, Ronald Radford (Marshall Tucker, Randy Travis), Scotty Hawkins and produced by Noel Golden (Edwin McCain, matchbox twenty, Willie Nelson, Lee Ann Womack and more). In preparation for the release of "Stand" all albums, digital and hard copy, are available for $5.99 or less at CD Baby now through release date. You can see them all at CDBABY. For current updates, sign up as a fan on Facebook Site.    04/11/2010

CIRCLE OF FATE TO RECORD NEW ALBUM
Last years break-out CD by Chicago's own melodic rock band Circle of Fate has captured the attention of the music public at large and the response has been no less than astounding. Described as "Pop rock with metal undertones", Circle of Fate's latest CD 'Back To Life' is an amalgamation of catchy melodies and hooky rhythms. Produced by Larry Sturm, who has worked with top music artists such as Destiny's Child, Mary J. Blige and Disturbed, and who has said of Circle of Fate's new single, " 'My Religion' has all of the ingredients of a hit song!" With the airplay the song has been receiving, Larry Strum was right on the mark! "The reviews to the CD are phenomenal!," says lead vocalist Michele Caruso. "I knew the songs were awesome but you never know in the music industry what the critics are going to say. It is very humbling to hear such great reviews from your peers and since the reviews were so good, I can't wait to let them hear our next one! It has justified to me that we as a band can write great songs that hit home with our fans and now with the critics. Circle of Fate is a band to look out for!" "It's very exciting," adds guitarist Danny Charatin. "We had a feeling when we recorded it that the CD sounded really good but it's never fully tested until you put it out there and wait for a response. The response has been great and we've been gaining new fans around the world!" Circle of Fate features: Michele Caruso: Lead Vocals - Michele has done jingle work for Chicago’s hit radio station B-96, and has also been an extra on a Bud Light commercial. Michele was model/dancer for the New York Creatures Video in MTV Europe, and was also be heard on the Gateway Chevrolet commercial on T.V. and radio. On top of all that, Michele was on the Howard Stern show, singing one of her original songs. The show was also aired on live radio, CBS, and E-Entertainment. She has has performed jingles for Chicago’s rock station Q101 and Mancow's Morning Madhouse where she sang the Gateway Chevrolet song live on the air. Danny Charatin: Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals - Danny has been playing the guitar now for about 22 years. Danny's past bands include Destiny, Moriah, Latent Fury and Ion Vein. Danny has also done some studio work in the past. He has played shows out of state to fill in for other bands and has a blues influence in his playing. He also enjoys playing classical pieces. He quotes..."My ideas and style fit perfectly with Michele's melodies and style. Together it's the perfect combination for real music that comes from the soul".  Jeff Barker: Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals - Jeff has been playing in numerous musical projects over the years; everything from original material to cover songs. While he has been the bassist in the majority of the projects he was involved with, he also plays guitar, keyboards and sings lead and backing vocals. His past projects have included a wide variety of music that ranges from rock and roll and the blues, heavy metal, industrial, speed metal, and jazz. He also has been involved in over twenty studio projects with numerous artists, and he has played in 500+ shows in the Chicago-land area, throughout the mid-west states and on the East Coast. Jeff was a nominee and finalist for Best Musician Bass Guitar in Chicago Nightlife Magazine's Best of the Burbs Contest 2009. Ken Kreis: Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals - With influences such as Neil Peart, John Bonham and Mike Portnoy you would understand how Ken developed the chops he has. Ken has been in the music scene for many years and has an energetic stage presence. Ken quotes "With time comes experience, with experience comes knowledge, and with knowledge comes wisdom." Ken brings a new element of life to the band and if you haven't seen him slam the skins don't miss a chance to when Circle of Fate is in your area. For the last 11 years Circle of Fate has been captivating audiences all over the world. Michele describes Circle of Fate's music as, "A break from the mundane. Our music kicks ass! Our music has great melodies and it’s in your face rock. Our music tells a story and leaves you wanting more." Andrew Dodge of Blog Critics touts, "This is quite simply driving metal that is done with lots of feeling and ability. It will strike no one listening as a surprise that they have been kicking around for 11 years. If you are into good metal delivered well, then check this lot out soonest, you will be glad you did!" Much to the elation of fans around the world, Circle of Fate has ventured back into the studio to record a new album slated for release this June. "The new material we are recording will be our 5th CD for original members Danny and I," explains Michele "With two new members on this CD, Jeff Barker on Bass and Ken Kreis on Drums, we are very excited that this will give COF a fresh 'edge' in the music scene while keeping our own unique style. This extra 'edge' will keep Circle of Fate in the public eye and our fans wondering, 'What will this band do next?' This new CD will cross new thresholds for our band and will take us to the next level." "In my opinion, the new material sort of goes back to our 'Inner Sanctum' album," adds Danny, "which really focuses on melodies and amazing vocal lines, but this time with a punchy edge to it. We were able to blend Michele's melodies and vocals with punctuating dynamics and edgy guitar riffs. The new material is also a touch more commercial than 'Back to Life' with its melodies and vocals but still maintains an edge with the dynamic drums and bass and in your face guitar riffs." Producer extraordinaire Eric Greedy, who has worked with such music legends as Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Elton John, Steven Tyler, Brian Wilson, Rage Against The Machine, Guns &Roses (the list goes on and on), produced two songs on the new CD. Also, formerly from Slash's Snakepit, Matt Laug played drums on the two tracks. Both cuts wre mastered by industry legend Big Bass Brian, who's impressive list of clients include the likes of Alice Cooper, Black Eyed Peas, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Grateful Dead, Hall &Oates and Kiss, just to name a few. Circle of Fate have recently been working with renown Chicago photographer Dan Machnik, who has taken photos of such notable musicians as Scott Ian of Anthrax, Sonny Mayo of Sevendust, Benji Madden of Good Charlotte, Dope, CJ Pierce of Drowning Pool. Greg Tribbett of Mudvayne/Hell Yeah, Ty Tabor of Kings, Dan Donegan of Disturbed, Broken Vegas, Joe Trohman of Fall Out Boy and many more. In support of Circle of Fate's previous release 'Back To Life' the band has been performing extensively over the past year. The group has recently signed with Almost Famous Booking and are planning a major US tour upon release of their new album this summer. COF's next show is on May 1st at Tiger O'stylies in Berwyn, IL. For more information visit the band's official Circle of Fate website,    04/11/2010

PETER BRADLEY ADAMS WAS FORMERLY ONE HALF OF THE DUO
Peter Bradley Adams was formerly one half of the duo, Eastmountainsouth, signed by Robbie Robertson (of The Band) to DreamWorks Records in 2002. Peter co-produced their debut album with Mitchell Froom, and the duo toured extensively opening for Lucinda Williams, Tracy Chapman, and performed their final show at the Hollywood Bowl opening for Lyle Lovett and Shelby Lynn. Since then, Adams has released three solo records: "Gather Up", "Leavetaking", and his most recent, "Traces", in October 2009 on Sarathan Records. Peter's music has appeared in 40+ films and television shows including recent placements in CBS' "The Mentalist" , CW's "One Tree Hill", ABC's "Brothers and Sisters" as well as the Miramax Film, film "Everbody's Fine" starring Robert De Niro. "Adams is fast developing as a songwriter who both inspires and questions" - Nic Harcourt / Los Angeles Times Magazine - Jan 2010. XM Satellite Radio's "The Loft" named him "Notable New Artist of The Year" in 2006. And the The Wall Street Journal named Peter in November of 2008 one of the "21st-century writers whose songs are worth exploring." Peter Bradley Adams - About this projectI'm making a new record, and unlike the last two, I've chosen to do this one without the backing of a record label... SO... I'm asking you wonderful people to help me fund it. AND by doing this, I'm hoping to involve all of you in the actual madness of making this record... so if you pledge, you'll immediately begin to receive exclusive updates and video footage from the studio, as well as the chance to hear songs in progress before mixing begins... a great opportunity to watch me generally freaking out about all sorts of things.....and of course, you will receive a free download of the completed record, and/or a signed copy mailed to you..... and other cool rewards, including me possibly showing up at your house to play a show. All the money received will go to pay for the recording, mixing, mastering, and production of the record. If you have any questions, please ask them and visit Peter Bradley Adams Home Page.    04/11/2010

CAMINO NEWS - NEW ANTHONY PHILLIPS 2CD REMASTERED REISSUE 'SIDES'
The next Anthony Phillips double-CD remastered reissue 'Sides' is now available for PRE-order (scheduled release date: 5th April 2010). Originally released in 1979, Sides has been remastered from the original master tapes by Simon Heyworth and includes the extra non-album track 'Souvenir' on CD1 (featuring John Hackett on flute). CD2 has variations and alternate mixes plus the edited single version of 'Um & Aargh' (previously unavailable on CD). Musicians include drummer Mike Giles (co-founder of King Crimson) & bassist John G Perry (ex-Caravan). There's also new liner notes with contributions from producer Rupert Hine & vocalist Dale Newman together with Ant's own memories of the album. For more info and PRE-ordering go Camino Records Home Page.    04/11/2010

PORCUPINE TREE - ANESTHETIZE - NEW LIVE FILM TO PREMIERE AT LONDON'S LEICESTER SQUARE
Anesthetize, a new live film from Porcupine Tree is to be premiered at a special screening in the Prince Charles Cinema at London's Leicester Square on Thursday May 20th at 7pm. The screening will be introduced by the band and filmmaker. Members of the band will also be available to sign copies of the film, which is being released on Kscope as 2disc set (DVD + Blu-Ray), following the screening. A limited number of tickets for this special evening are available to purchase from the cinema (www.princecharlescinema.com / 0870 811 2559) for only £10 (plus 75p booking fee). Anesthetize follows the band's latest album The Incident which was released last year to massive critical acclaim.  The album marked another step forward in the incredible journey of the band from a solo studio project created by Steven Wilson in the late eighties to a grammy nominated act and one of the world's most revered live bands, currently selling out arenas across the globe and wowing fans with their incredible performances. This 130 minute film captures the power of band's live show. Directed by long-time collaborator Lasse Hoile, the film was recorded in high definition on multi-cameras over two nights at 013 venue in Tilburg, Holland in October 2008. The concerts featured tracks from throughout the band's career until that point including a complete performance of the Fear Of A Blank Planet album. Anesthetize collects the highlights from the two shows and presents them on both DVD and on Blu-Ray. It is only the band's second DVD release and will be available on Kscope in May 2010 as either a 2-disc set (DVD + Blu-Ray) or as a single disc (DVD) release. A limited 4-disc (DVD, Blu-Ray + 2CD) special edition version will also be available exclusively through the band's website (www.porcupinetree.com). The special edition will take the form of a cloth bound hard back 120 page book featuring live photography of the band taken over the last 5 years. The CDs of the soundtrack also include one bonus track not featured in the film. More info and a preview of the film is now online at KSCOPE MUSIC SITE.    04/11/2010

CARAVAN ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THEIR BOX SET RELEASE
Delighted to announce the release of a 4 CD Caravan box set covering the years of 1968-1976. The project was compiled for Universal Music by Mark Powell with Phil Smees' always gorgeous artwork and Paschal Byrne (mastering engineer on the earlier reissues) as mastering engineer. "Of all the groups to emerge from the "Canterbury Scene", none were quite so original and proved so enduring as Caravan'- Mark Powell- 'Where But for Caravan Would I' 2001. This new anthology includes BBC sessions, and tracks from the live Caravan And The New Symphonia (1974) recorded at London's Drury Lane theatre. For long terms fans, there is a real bonus in two lengthy unreleased tracks "The Love In Your Eye" (an early version of one of Caravan's most popular songs) and "Any Advance On Carpet?', both recorded in the early 70s. One of the best groups to emerge from the British underground scene of the late sixties, Caravan deserve a place along side the best " Family, Traffic, Pink Floyd and Soft Machine - evolving out of the same Canterbury scene as Soft Machine and, specifically a group called the Wilde Flowers. The Wilde Flowers included both Robert Wyatt and Kevin Ayers along side the founder members of Caravan: Pye Hastings, vocals/guitar; cousins David and Richard Sinclair (keyboards and bass respectively) and drummer Richard Coughlan. At long last, Caravan get the boxed set treatment they deserve, this four disc set spanning their self titled 1968 debut album for Verve, six albums for Decca/Deram and 1976's Blind Man at St Dunstan's for the BTM labelled. The group continued into the 80s and reformed successfully in the early 90s but this new anthology focuses on their acknowledged 'classic' period 1968-76. Despite changes of personnel, only Hastings and Couglan remained throughout, while the Sinclairs departed (Richard to Matching Mole, David to form Hatfield & the North) and eventually came back again, the group's signature sound stayed in tact, a blend of melodious wistfulness and more avant-garde improvisation that later (especially after electric violin/viola player Geoffrey Richardson joined in 1972 when David Sinclair left) embracing a more orchestral approach. Caravan never attained the commercial success of many their contemporaries or the degree of critical standing that Soft Machine earned but instead were a hugely popular college draw in this era, and remained charmingly inventive throughout their history. This trait extended from their music to albums titles like For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night (1973) and Cunning Stunts (1975) which saw them break through in America. The World Is Yours draws freely from all Caravan's albums up to 1976 with key selections from their debut, their two most widely acknowledged classics - If I Could Do It Again, I'd Do It All Over You ((1970) and In The Land Of The Grey And Pink (1971), plus the underrated Waterloo Lily (1972) on which Richard Sinclair was replaced by jazz-rock keyboardist Steve Miller. Caravan never appeared to take themselves as seriously as Canterbury cohorts Soft Machine with their increasing forays into more complex jazz or more virtuoso progressive outfits like Yes and King Crimson. Caravan's witty songs were no less imaginative, but more playful improvisation was their particular forte - all in all one of the most singular groups of the late 60s and early 70s. One of the great British groups to marry 60s psychedelia with the more progressive direction of the 70s, Caravan were never victims of excess. Somehow, Caravan remained grounded by a strong sense of melody and endless charm which is no less resonant today.    04/11/2010

CRYSTAL EYES STILL ALIVE AND WRITING NEW SONGS
They've been getting a lot of questions lately about the status of Crystal Eyes so here it is: They're still alive and somewhere in the middle of the songwriting process for the 7th album. It's far too early to talk about release dates but since the speed and the Halford screams are back in the new songs it will be worth the wait =). If you want to see Crystal Eyes live don't miss the gig in Borås in Sweden on the 24th of April. (more info on the Crystal Eyes' On Stage page) We're hoping to announce some more dates soon.     04/11/2010

MILWAUKEE SIXTIES MUSIC LEGENDS THE TYGERS REUNITE
Much to the anticipation of music aficionados around the world, Milwaukee sixties music legends The Tygers have reunited! After a 40 year hiatus, The Tygers have released their follow-up album aptly titled 'Second Album'. "Releasing a solid debut album is one of the tougher accomplishments in the music industry," says Drew Olson of OnMilwaukee.com "The only thing more difficult, it seems, is making a good sophomore disc. The old saying in the recording industry holds that bands have 'a lifetime to make the first record and six weeks to make the second.' The Tygers broke that mold ... and it only took 40 years!" The tale of The Tygers is one of the great "one that got away" rock 'n' roll stories of all time. Back in 1967 Tony’s Tygers, comprised of five Milwaukee teenagers (Tony Dancy, Craig Fairchild, Dennis Duchrow, Fred Euler and Dave Kuck) entered and won the Wisconsin State Battle of the Bands, sponsored by the Jaycees. As a result, local pop music impresario Jon Hall became their manager. The Tygers went on to Boston to compete in the National Battle of the Bands, where one of the judges was Les Paul. He immediately took an interest in the group and decided to visit them in their hotel room. He played for them on Tony’s Gretsch Country Gentleman guitar, and exclaimed to the band, “I haven’t been this excited about a band since I saw The Young Rascals when they were starting out in New Jersey.” Les Paul invited Tony and the boys to come and stay at his home in Mahwah, New Jersey, where he wanted to produce a record with them. The Tygers placed 3rd in the nation and soon after their return to Milwaukee, Les Paul came to town and met with the band at Tony’s house. He made his pitch to the band members' parents and to Jon Hall, but Jon, realizing that he had a hot property, refused to give anything up or make any sort of deal with Les. Reportedly, Les Paul confessed that he couldn’t work with the band's manager in any event. Likewise, the parents were indecisive. Sadly the whole thing eventually fell through. Why did the parents and the band allow such a golden opportunity to slip away' We’ll never know. In early 1968 The Tygers ventured into RCA Studios in Chicago and recorded “Little By Little” and another Dancy-Duchrow composition, “Days and Nights”, in two hours. Jon Hall released the record locally on his Teen Town label and with the support of WOKY’s Bob Barry, the number one disc jockey in Wisconsin (the guy that brought The Beatles to Milwaukee), the record soared up the charts to #2. Only The Monkees “Valleri” prevented the song from hitting #1 in March of 1968. Upon the success of The Tygers new single, Herb Alpert, head of A&M Records, bought the master and released the single on A&M, making it a national record. In the March 2, 1968 issue of Billboard magazine, “Little By Little” was picked as a Spotlight Single. The write-up declared: “A hot master out of Milwaukee, purchased by A&M, features the third place winners in the nationwide Battle of the Bands contest. The easy-beat rocker is aimed right at the teen market and should spread fast nationally.” Jack Devaney of Record World magazine raved in his Coast Capers column on March 16, 1968: " 'Little By Little” A&M’s Tony’s Tygers will take the nation by storm.” In order to “strike while the iron is hot”, The Tygers rushed to create a debut album but did so without the services of their lead arranger and singer Tony, who was ill. The album failed to gain traction and the record deal evaporated. Duchrow left for the Vietnam War, two other members left for personal reasons and the remaining four members - Tony Dancy, Craig Fairchild, Lanny Hale and Fred Euler - kept up the fight for a few years, only to find frustration. Hale was accepted into medical school and became a cutting-edge ophthalmologist. Euler left to pursue a very successful career in hotel management. Dancy and Fairchild headed for California, where they created music for "The Brady Bunch" and "The Flintstones." Dancy reformed The Tygers, with new and old members, for shows in the 1980s and '90s. About a year ago, Dancy and Fairchild gathered at Hale's home studio and began working on the long-awaited follow-up record, 'Second Album'. "It wasn’t easy to have a hit record in Milwaukee back in the 60s, not even locally. The music charts were dominated by the East and West Coasts and the British invaders. The Tygers were one of the few local groups to make the charts. When I appeared on stage with The Tygers back in the '60s and '70s we had a lot of fun. Now that we’re older, does that mean we can’t have that same fun again' It’s about time we bring all of those good times back with 'The Tygers Second Album'. Then is now, yesterday is today. The music we enjoyed then we can enjoy today, only it’s brand new. However I say it guys and gals, moms and dads, grandpas and grandmas …THIS IS OUR MUSIC! - “Beatle” Bob Barry on The Tygers new album And why a reunion now' "It really wasn’t a 'reunion," says Lanny Hale, "it was a break in the timing of our lives and a burning desire to create new music for ourselves and a generation of people who really had nothing but 'oldies' to listen to. We believed the time was right for a 'neo-retro' movement, a term we first heard from our mastering engineer Gary Tanin after he had mastered the album. It was also fulfilling a need to complete some of the things we had come so close to many years ago, like produce a real hit record. We didn’t believe our age should present a barrier to that goal." The Tygers today feature: Tony Dancy - vocals, guitars and keyboards, Lanny Hale - vocals and guitar, and Craig Fairchild - vocals, piano and B3 organ. The Tygers 'Second Album' showcases an array of musical styles and intelligent themes throughout, with lush vocal harmonies, catchy hooks, and exciting arrangements and performances, all wrapped in a top notch production by the band. The influence of many of The Tygers contemporaries, like CSN&Y, Poco, Buffalo Springfield and Simon &Garfunkle, can be heard throughout the band's music, whether by conscious effort or not. The pedal steel featured on “How Long Does It Take” is by Kenny Knoll, who has toured with such greats as Faron Young, Ferlin Husky, The Browns, Carl Smith, Crystal Gayle, Marty Robbins and Dottie West. The sophisticated horn arrangements were by Joe Turano, who was a Tyger in the 1960s along with Tony, Craig and Lanny. Joe went on to tour with Michael Bolton for a number of years and is currently musical director for Al Jarreau. Joe replaced some of Tony’s synthetic horn arrangements with live horns and created fresh arrangements for other songs. The finely-crafted songs were penned mainly by Lanny and Tony: "There are many things that inspire one to write a song," says Tony Dancy, "but the songs on our CD were inspired by one thing: the project itself. When we came up with the idea of being the first group of 60 year old guys to start a new band and have a hit record, it became necessary to write some new songs. The idea was so revolutionary and exciting that the inspiration came easily. As for the message that we're trying to transmit to our audience, the music IS the message. We want to show people that they don't have to pack their dreams away just because they've reached a certain, arbitrary age. If we can do this, so can you. So can anyone.” The Tygers Second Album CD can be obtained through iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, eMusic, Napster and soon on CD Baby, as well as the band's official website. A limited vinyl edition of the new CD is also available through the band's website. For more information visit The Tyguers Home page.     04/11/2010

DWEEZIL ZAPPA A TOUR, CD/DVD RELEASE
Dweezil Zappa has a busy summer coming up with festival performances, a tour, CD/DVD release and his musical boot camp DWEEZILLA.  The unique 4-day, 5-night camp in upstate NY allows both amateur and professional musicians alike to be surrounded by Dweezil and his core band including Joe Travers, Pete Griffin, Scheila Gonzales, Jamie Klime and Billy Hulting. Have you ever wanted to drastically improve your musical skills in a short period of time? Or wanted to learn to improvise like a professional?  DWEEZILLA is the opportunity for you! DWEEZILLA is a 4-day, 5-night music boot camp designed to expand the harmonic horizons of both amateur and professional musicians alike. This musical exploration and development camp will occur in the heart of the "Forever Wild" Catskill Forest Preserve in Big Indian, New York at the Full Moon Resort from Sunday, June 20th to Friday, June 25th 2010. Disconnected from the busy chaos of the outside world, your days at DWEEZILLA will include gourmet meals provided by Full Moon Resort with master classes from Dweezil Zappa, Joe Travers, Pete Griffin, Scheila Gonzales, Jamie Klime and Billy Hulting. Private performances, intimate jam sessions, campfires, film screenings, and of course, the study of Frank Zappa's brilliant approach to music, his career, and legacy. Use your time at DWEEZILLA to get advice from the masters, perfect your sound, learn about life on the road, master improvisation, and much more! "I decided to create a diverse music boot camp for people of all skill levels hoping to increase their musical prowess. It would make me very happy if I could help a fellow musician take their skills to the next level."  - Dweezil Zappa. Accommodations, as well as campsites, are available at the Full Moon Resort and the nearby Alpine Inn.  All DWEEZILLA activities will be held on-site at Full Moon Resort. Acres of fields, meadows, forests and streams provide a natural backdrop for a wonderful and memorable experience. Create an account on Dweezil Zappa's website and fill out the DWEEZILLA Musical Boot Camp Questionnaire.    04/11/2010

NEW CD RELEASE BY GERMAN MUSIC LEGENDS AMON DUUL 2 NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
Experimental music pioneers Amon Duul 2, whose music defined the German progressive rock scene of the 1970's, are back with a new album Bee As Such. Currently only available by download through the band's website, the CD marks the first new album by the legendary group in several years. Amon Duul 2 reveal on their website: "Recorded April 2009 at Dreamscape Studio, Amon Duul 2 celebrated a highly sensitive performance, of finding back to the roots - not in the past, but essentially - seeking the new sounds and contents at the same time. No 'kraut', no '70s', but the music of the new millenium. This sound painting is one more of our unique works, containing the spirit of our time." "Amon Duul never used to present the same style on their albums," explains guitarist John Weinzierl "We like to develop our music into all kinds of directions and sometimes we don´t even know where it´s gonna lead us. We don't follow a pattern only because it is successful. Since 2000 we´ve used lots of elements of world music, we had eastern influences, ethnological sounds, and of course we never forgot 'sound painting'." When asked if there was a concept behind this new album? Weinzierl expounded, "Avoiding industry music, heading for new frontiers." Formed in Munich in 1968, Amon Duul 2 rapidly excelled to the forefront of German avant garde music along side notable peers Can, Faust and Tangerine Dream. Amon Duul 2 quickly distinguished themselves from these other ensembles with their use of pop elements interspersed with eclectic songwriting and arrangements along with deft musicianship and the sweet voice of female vocalist Renate Knaup-Krotenschwanz. The band's influences ranged from jazz and classical to Zappa and Syd's Pink Floyd, although the music has remained so original these past 30 years it's difficult to tell who the band's influences are! "That's because Germany culture-wise has no rhythm and blues influence," explains Renate. "We have classical music and traditional music, so we just experimented with what we had. To copy rhythm and blues or rock and roll would be silly because they are not our roots." By 1979 and many critically acclaimed, pioneering LPs later, Amon Duul 2 went their separate ways, only to reunite in the 1990s, and most recently in the mid-2000s. The current line-up includes original members: Chris Karrer (guitar, violin, vocals), John Weinzierl (guitars, synth, vocals), Renate Knaup-Krotenschwanz (vocals), Danny Fichelscher (drums), Lother Meid (bass, vocals) and neo-Duul Jan Kahlert (percussion, vocals). And where did the name Amon Duul 2 come from? "We didn't want to have an anglophonic name, because in those days everybody was called Rattles, or Beatles, or some other english name," explained John Weinzierl. "We didn't wanna have a German name either, that's why we went into a long period of finding an appropriate name. At some point the band had a different name with every other concert that was played. Finally it was AMON DUUL. Amon referres to the Egypt sun god Amon-Re. Duul (with the "Umlaut" dots, that your computer can't print out) comes from a Canadian group's album called Tanjet, that we used to listen to a lot. On this album there was a self-constructed mythology with a part called Dyyl. This eventually was transformed into Duul and the Umlauts gave it this slight German touch. Since then many groups started having fantasy names, or even using Umlaut dots like in Motorhead. Understand? (of course you have to imagine the Umlaut dots, cause your computer can't...)  And I shall never answer this question any more now." Yet one question still remains; It has been 40 years since the incarnation of Amon Duul 2, what has kept the band together all these years? "As we are not just a band, but a music commune, a social experiment, and a work of art, it's just natural to stay together, and of course: it must be love, or something close enough...." Amon Duul 2 - Bee As Such will be released on CD and DVD later this year. It is currently available for download at  Amon Duul 2 Home Page.    03/15/2010

DRUID "FLUID" AND "TOWARD THE SUN" AVAILABLE DIGITALLY
Progressive rock band Druid released two albums on EMI in the 70s; their debut Toward The Sun (1975) produced by Bob Harris of The Old Grey Whistle Test fame & second album Fluid Druid (1976). Both albums are now available digitally for the first time. Click here to buy Fluid Druid from itunes, or click here to buy Toward The Sun from itunes.    03/15/2010

CARAVAN ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THEIR BOX SET RELEASE
Delighted to announce the release on March 22nd of a 4 CD Caravan box set covering the years of 1968-1976. The project was compiled for Universal Music by Mark Powell with Phil Smees' always gorgeous artwork and Paschal Byrne (mastering engineer on the earlier reissues) as mastering engineer. "Of all the groups to emerge from the "Canterbury Scene", none were quite so original and proved so enduring as Caravan'- Mark Powell- 'Where But for Caravan Would I' 2001. This new anthology includes BBC sessions, and tracks from the live Caravan And The New Symphonia (1974) recorded at London's Drury Lane theatre. For long terms fans, there is a real bonus in two lengthy unreleased tracks "The Love In Your Eye" (an early version of one of Caravan's most popular songs) and "Any Advance On Carpet?', both recorded in the early 70s.     03/15/2010

PINK FLOYD WIN COURT BATTLE OVER ONLINE SALES
Pink Floyd have won a High Court battle to stop their record label EMI selling individual songs online. The rock legends, signed to EMI since 1967, said their contract meant their albums could not be split up without their permission. A judge agreed, saying the contract contained a clause to “preserve the artistic integrity of the albums”. You can read the full story at Pink Floyd Home Page.    03/15/2010

LA NUOVA RACCOMANDATA RICEVUTA DI RITORNO, THE LEGEND IS BACK!
After more than 30 years Raccomandata Ricevuta di Ritorno is back and hits the streets with an astounding record with even more astounding guests. Apart from original members Luciano Regoli (Ritratto di Dorian Gray, RRR, Samadhi, DGM), Nanni Civitenga (RRR, Samadhi), Roberto Gardin (RRR, Ritratto di Dorian Gray), Walter Martino (RRR, Goblin, Ritratto di Dorian Gray), this record features real italian prog legends like Claudio Simonetti (Goblin, Ritratto di Dorian Gray), Lino Vairetti (Osanna), Nicola di Staso (Lybra) and even Carl Verheyen of Supertramp. The result is a progressive killer! Modern, yet full of reminiscences of the past, the record is an ever changing shift of moods, dominated by the stunning still intact voice of Luciano Regoli supported by the incredible skills of the involved musicians. They are not afraid to say that for them this is by far the best Italian progressive reunion ever! In order to celebrate this release the record will be sold in different versions: a) Deluxe papersleeve CD edition, whereas the first 666 copies will contain a unique lithography of Luciano Regoli, numbered and hand signed by the master himself, b) Standard black 180 gram deluxe gatefold LP, limited to 300 copies, c) Special limited 66 copies handmade, stamped and signed "Raccomandata collector edition parcelbox", featuring the multi color LP version, a deluxe book by Luciano Regoli, a photograph from RRR taken in 1971, a promotional DVD, the papersleeve CD and a unique oil painting made on ship wood by Luciano Regoli. Every one of these boxes will contain a different painting, which can be recognized  on the stamp on the front side of the box. On sale on exhibits only. For further enquiries, please contact BTF and/or Luciano Regoli.   03/15/2010

ULYSSES ENDS TOUR WITH ANDROMEDA ON EASTER
Next April the Dutch progrock formation Ulysses will end their "Tour of a Decade" with the Swedish formation Andromeda. For three days they will travel through the lowlands and do three live-shows. With their latest album "The Gift of Tears" Ulysses has proven to be a serious player in the world of prog. The numerous reviews they received for the CD aswell as the liveshows prove that they do great in the studio and on stage. Swedish Andromeda recently release their 5th studio album "The Immunity Zone". They are a big player in the scene. Together these bands will make the three shows an unforgettable experience. After the shows Ulysses will continue working on their new album, so don't miss this opportunity to see them live. To support the upcoming shows Ulysses has released their first official videoclip on the web. The footage was shot by John Vis on their "Tour of a Decade" last november and editted by Michael Hos. Check out the latest tourupdates and the videoclip on Ulysses home page.   03/15/2010

WELSH PROG ROCK BAND MAN GUITARIST MICKY JONES DIES
TAKE FROM NEWS BBC WEBSITE - Micky Jones played with Man from its formation in 1968 until ill health in 2002. Guitarist and singer Micky Jones, one of the founders of Welsh prog rock band, Man, has died aged 63. With Merthyr Tydfil-born Jones, the band had four Top 40 UK albums from the late 1960s and toured across Europe and America, where admirers included Frank Zappa. Friend and former colleague Phil Little said Jones had a "command of melody" and was "the most humble guy". Jones, who had been fighting a brain tumour, died at a care home in Swansea. Mr Little, who played with Jones in the 1980s with the London-based The Flying Pigs, said Frank Zappa once described Jones as "one of the 10 best guitarists in the world". He said: "I did hundreds of gigs with him and I never saw him have a cross word with anybody. He had maximum respect from all the musicians. "He had great command of melody. He would improvise fantastically. He also have a very pure and soulful voice." Jones' first band The Bystanders, was a Merthyr-based close harmony five-piece formed in the early 1960s, with BBC Wales radio presenter Owen Money, who was calling himself Gerry Braden, on vocals. Money said he was "devastated" at the loss of someone who was a family friend as well as an artistic collaborator. He said: "We came up together, we shared our life together. I know it was an inevitability but words can't express what I'm feeling at the moment. "He taught me to play the guitar. His first job was as a hairdresser. He cut my hair. "He was a fantastic musician. He had a "Frankie Valli" voice. We were set apart from any band in Wales at the time - we could do songs others could not do - because of his high falsetto voice. The women loved him so much, especially in the 60s. There we girls screaming and always three times as many screaming for Micky than anyone else. He was a good looking boy." In 1968, after Money had moved on, the Bystanders added Deke Leonard, Jones' guitar partner for some three decades, embraced the counterculture and became Man. They had four albums in the UK Top 40 between 1973 and 1976 and toured on continental Europe and America. Music journalist Michael Heatley, who ran a Man fans newsletter for 20 years, said the band reached "the upper second division of British rock" but had been overlooked in the history of rock. He said: "Man were a live band. People would go and see them because they knew that the live performance was going to be much better than the record. For more about the band please visit MAN home page.   03/15/2010

SILENT LAPSE AND THEIR ALBUM FOR FREE DOWNLOAD
Their album is now FREE and can be downloaded by visiting the Discography and Merch pages! There will be a $2.63 charge to cover shipping and shipping materials if you choose to have a CD sent to you. They love this album and really believe in it. They don't want a $10 charge to stand in the way of you hearing an album that they think is one of the best! Need more convincing? Please read their 9/10 review on The Metal Observer, Birthright Review and the Ytsejam.com. For more about the band and their album please visit Silent Lapse Home Page.    03/15/2010

KINGCROW, "PHLEGETHON", THE NEW CONCEPT ALBUM OF THE BAND HAS FINALLY MASTERED
"Phlegethon" is the new concept album of the band has finally mastered at "20Hz20Khz" in Naples by Davide Barbarulo. For a taste of things to come check out at their official MySpace. "Evasion" and two Samples of "Fading Out PT.III" and "Numb (incipit, climax & coda)". Release date and label will be revealed soon. For more about please check out Kingcrow Home Page.   03/15/2010

JEBO NEW ALBUM 'SETTLE UP OR SETTLE DOWN' IS FINISHED!
Again produced by John Burns (Genesis, Jethro Tull, John Martyn and others) and mixing engineer Ben Findlay (Realworld Studios, Jeff Beck, Goldfrapp). This will be the bands 2nd album and is due for release in April. It will be available from the bands Website, Amazon and iTunes plus other sites to numerous to mention. Early indications already look good: "The new JEBO album has songwriting, musicianship and production of the very highest quality that stands head & shoulders above the rest, JEBO remain a world class band" - Bristol Rocks. The band will be doing some shows around release time and details can be found at Jebo Home Page. Also click here to listen to some tracks.   03/15/2010

FLASH RANGE NEW MUSIC VIDEO IS OUT NOW
They are excited to tell us that their new music video is out! Please check it out at Youtube Flash Range - Follow Me Now (official music video),    03/15/2010

FILM TRACING THE LINEAGE OF FRANK ZAPPA'S INFLUENCES TO THE RECORDINGS AND PERFORMANCES OF ZAPPA HIMSELF
MVD Visual are proud to announce the DVD release of Frank Zappa "The Freak Out List" on April 20, 2010. When an artist, regardless of his significance, lists his favorite musicians and performers it is usually met with little fanfare, as over time the names mentioned are almost certainly going to change. But when Frank Zappa did likewise, and actually published a record of his most important influences on the inside cover of his debut album, it became a road map to the music he was to make over the following forty years. Even in the early 1990s, when asked about his most-loved composer's, musicians and artists, he would repeat names from this, by then legendary, index. This film explores the musical roots of Frank Zappa by putting "The Freak Out List" under the microscope and tracing the lineage from the most pivotal names therein to the recordings and performances of the man himself. Featuring rare footage of Zappa and the Mothers plus archive film of Freak Out List artists, exclusive interviews with The Mothers Of Invention's Ian Underwood, Don Preston and George Duke, 1950s Doo Wop legends, The Cadillacs, contributions from Zappa biographers Ben Watson and Greg Russo, Edgar Varese biographer Alan Clayson, experimental modern music historian Professor David Nicholls, soul and R'n'B expert Robert Pruter and many others. Also features numerous seldom seen photographs, news archive, radio spots and a host of other features which all together make for a uniquely fascinating program.  03/15/2010

PROGRESSIVE METAL GROUP BY BLOOD ALONE TO PLAY SELECT EAST COAST ENGAGEMENTS
Much to the anticipation of fans and music press alike, 5-piece progressive metal band By Blood Alone will be playing select dates on the east coast this April. Though critics praise the band, who hail from Portland Maine, for their complex-but-seamless song writing, determination to dodge stylistic cliches and all-around gothic grandeur, that’s not what makes By Blood Alone unique. The key element that sets this band apart is its approach and attitude. One never feels as though By Blood Alone are truly content with the body of their work, but always reaching into the murky darkness before them for what mystery lies ahead. You’ll not see a head-banging, raucous crowd at stage-front of a By Blood Alone show: instead, you’ll find a captivated audience unmoving and silent – locked into the moment. "If you're new to By Blood Alone, you'll get 45 minutes of breathtakingly dark progressive rock, unlike anything you've heard before. If you HAVE seen us previously, you know to expect the unexpected," says guitarist John Graveside. "For some reason when we are onstage people really study our music. They watch very quietly and only make a sound when they cheer at the end of songs. It's sort of like a classical concert or a scene from 'Monterrey Pop', and after 5 years in the band still a tad unnerving." "Everyone in the band is clearly an accomplished musician in their own right and demonstrates imagination and creativity, but the rhythm section possesses two qualities which are rare to find at the same time in a metal band; precision and finesse. With the powerfully tasteful guitar compositions of John Graveside and the powerful, emotive vocals of Cruella it would seem that By Blood Alone have everything in place for launching a very successful career." - Komodo Rock. Formed in 2004, By Blood Alone proudly sound like no one else in their hometown, and few elsewhere. By virtue of association, they might be compared to the likes of Finland’s operatic Nightwish or Florida’s decidedly progressive Kamelot, and though that is certainly good company to be in, such comparisons are somewhat inaccurate. The songs on By Blood Alone’s 2007 CD Seas of Blood possess a cinematic quality, brought to life by keyboard tones that bring to mind classic horror and 1950's science fiction films that sit alongside crucial sections of dramatic orchestration. At any given moment you are as likely to hear a solitary piano delicately underscoring vocalist Cruella’s quiet whispers as you are a relentless guitar/bass/drums gallop of bone-crunching verses propelling her wail of contempt. A sultry mix of bitter loss, inglorious defeat and even a bit of gallows humor can all be culled from the furious aural denouement unleashed upon the audience before them. These are not simply encores – they are epilogues. 2005 saw By Blood Alone map out their path with the debut EP Eternally. Ambitious in scope, it set the stage for what is clearly their pinnacle achievement, Seas of Blood. Amongst accolades from numerous press outlets, Portland’s primary arts weekly The Phoenix has twice placed By Blood Alone on their year-end Top-10 list, in 2007 for Seas of Blood and in 2005 for Eternally. These achievements can be added to a string of stunning live performances across New England with the likes of Joey Belladonna of Anthrax, Metal Blade Recording artists Goatwhore, as well as former Misfits vocalist Michale Graves and countless other local and regional acts. "As a whole, I think By Blood Alone has only scratched the surface of where they could take their music. The band has all of the tools to take their music to the next level. Stephen King may have put Portland, Maine on the map as far as pop culture goes, with the right producer and a little bit of luck, By Blood Alone could carry this town’s legacy well into the future.” - Hard Rock Hideout. Along with the band's special blend of progressive metal, the artwork for the new CD is nothing less than spectacular. "Cruella is a visual artist, and I am a graphic designer, so the packaging was very important to us," says Graveside. "We licensed the painting from a museum in the UK, and I 'doctored' it a bit and did the overall layout. The cover is getting lots of compliments. I see a lot of indie CDs with very mediocre artwork, and as a graphic designer it pains me to look at some of them. Even though the world is moving away from CDs to downloadable files, artwork is still an important point of expression for any band, and usually a dull cover means a dull band. And if there’s no artwork at all…well, you get the point." Cruella adds, "Artwork is extremely important. I didn’t want it to be an afterthought with the album. I am constantly thinking and creating with pictures, so when it came to choosing an image for the cd I already had tons of ideas. Luckily, Graveside and I were on the same page." "This is a scrumpious blend of gothic and heavy metal. Unlike most, this band does not sacrifice anything from either catagory to make its sound. It has all of the darkness, beauty and drama of the gothic category, but it also rocks socks and trades licks like the best of the metal bands. In a pit or on a stage, this band could stand up there with Judas Priest or Iron Maiden." - NeoZine, As far as the future goes for By Blood Alone, the band plans on releasing a new CD in the Fall of 2010. "These are all the songs we wrote during or after Cruella's breast cancer battle in the fall of 2007," John Graveside explains. "It was a pretty trying time for both her and the rest of us, and it shows in the music. As soon as she started chemo I was determined to have the bulk of the next disc written in the next few months, and after I got done with writing each one the band started fleshing them out while Cruella wrote lyrics at home. So, I got 5 songs done (all about 8 minutes each), and a few months after we started gigging again I wrote a sixth song and Runtt brought in a song, so we now have 7, about 50-55 minutes of material. We're laying down basic tracks in our new studio as we speak (and hopefully we will be done with basics before the tour starts.) So far everything is coming out great and we're hoping to release the disc in the Fall." By Blood Alone will also be performing at the Furfright Festival in Connecticut this coming October. For more information visit By Blood Alone's official website.  03/15/2010

APOCALYPSE ANNOUNCES THEIR NEW DRUMMER
On the next Friday, March 5th, the Brazilian Progressive/Classic rock legend APOCALYPSE will play at the National Grape Party in Caxias do Sul, south of Brazil. This will be the first show of the new drummer of the band, Fábio Schneider. He joins the band in substitution of the old drummer, Chico Fasoli, that was in the band for 26 years, since 1984! Chico decided to leave the band to have more time with family and other professional projects. Fábio Schneider is one of the most respected and famous drummers in Brazil. He has his own drums institute, "Instituto Musical Fábio Schneider", with more than 20 years of activities. He is always story of the most popular drums magazines and endorsee of international drums brands such as Pearl, C.Ibañez, Orion Cymbals, Urban Boards, Staff Drum, Power Click, etc. "Apocalypse is one of the most respected bands in Brazil!", says Fábio Schneider. "Join a band like that is a big responsibility. Even greater responsibility is to replace Chico Fasoli, which in my opinion is one of the most competent progressive drummer of Brazil, and longtime friend. "I feel honored to be invited and reminded to face this challenge in Apocalypse". The band has an affinity and strong musical maturity, fruit of more than 25 years of existence. The preparatory rehearsals to his debut show has been very professional and exciting. Indeed, the show on the National Grape Festival also marks my entry into the team of Pearl Brazil. The Director of International Marketing of the company will attend the event". About APOCALYPSE: In 26 years of career, APOCALYPSE has become one of the biggest names in Brazilian progressive rock scene. Its vast discography includes 10 albums released in Brazil, Europe, USA and Asia - including a double album recorded live in the United States during the first international tour of the band. At this time, APOCALYPSE promotes it's latest effort, The Bridge Of Light, released in Brazil in 2008 by Free Mind Records and in Europe and Asia by Musea Records. In researchs sponsored by the specialized  press as Whiplash and Roadie Crew, The Bridge Of Light won several indications as Best of 2008: Best Album, Best Cover, Best Show and Best Keyboardist to Eloy Fritsch. In early 2009, Eloy Fritsch also received the "Azorean Music Award - Honorable Mention" for his contribution to the south Brazilian music scene and APOCALYPSE received the trophy Vasco Prado in honor of it's 25 years career. Two videos have been produced for The Bridge Of Light. The latest is for the track "Welcome Outside" that got exposure on Brazilian MTV. The video can be watched in this link on Youtube. Last year, APOCALYPSE has already done two tours in promotion to The Bridge Of Light. The first happened in April and included shows in the state of Sao Paulo. The second and most recent occurred in September and included shows in the states of Sao Paulo and Parana. In addition to touring, the band performs with frequency in Rio Grande do Sul, its home state. APOCALYPSE is formed by Gustavo Demarchi (vocals, flute), Eloy Fritsch (keyboards), Ruy Fritsch (guitar), Magoo Wise (bass) and Fábio Schneider (drums). For Further Information please visit Apocalypse Home Page.  03/15/2010

LOU REED RE-MASTERS "METAL MACHINE MUSIC"
Lou Reed has finalised details of the digitally re-mastered edition of his seminal 1975 album "Metal Machine Music."  Reed will release the ground breaking album in the UK on April 19th on his independent label "Sister Ray" in the following three formats " double gatefold vinyl in quadraphonic sound, audio DVD and Blu-ray. The album coincides with Lou Reed"s Metal Machine Trio UK concerts at the Cambridge Junction (April 17), Oxford O2 Academy (April 18) and London Royal Festival Hall (April 19, part of the Ether Festival). Lou did the digital re-mastering from the original multi-tracks with the help of world-renowned mastering guru, Scott Hull. This is a new and improved re-mastered version, and is different from all previous releases on the RCA, Buddha and Sony affiliated labels. Further info about the Metal Machine Music Re-mastered. Says Reed, "The out of print "Quad" release has been replicated for all formats, including a perfect vinyl version playable on your stereo turntable with the original rear sections moved to the center of the front left/right speakers. It"s worth getting a turntable to hear this. We worked from digital transfers (95k 24bit) made from the original analogue masters. The original label supplied us with these files and photo copies of the analogue reels including copies of Bob Ludwig"s mastering notes." Although the Metal Machine Music album will be reissued just in time for Reed"s Metal Machine Trio UK concerts, MM3 will not perform music from the legendary album, but instead will perform music loosely based on, and inspired by, the 1975 album.  Please visit  Lou Reed Home Page.  03/15/2010

VIOLET SUN IS FINALLY COMPLETED THEIR DEBUT ALBUM "LONELINESS IN SUPREMACY"
The Line up is composed by - Alessandra Amata: Lead Vocals & Piano, Alex Grillo: Drum & Percussions and Dario Grillo: Guitars, Vocals, Bass, Keyboards, Backing vocals , Orchestral scores and production. Guest Musicians: Giuseppe Finocchiaro: Sax, Opera Choir: Biagio Lentini, Roberto Mauro, Ignazio Gervasi, Alex Grillo. Massimo Grillo. Monica Benevento, Alessia Grillo, Loredana Aureli, Giovanni Palanica, Fabrizio Nocera, Lorencè Brahem: oriental instruments. Mika Jussila mastered the album in the early days of January at Finnivox Studios (Nightwish, Him, Stratovarious, Masterplan etc.) You can listen to two short samples through the Violet Sun website.  03/15/2010

CYNIC  - QUALITY PERFORMANCE FOOTAGE OF NEW SONG AVAILABLE
Quality fan-filmed live footage of the reunited progressive rock/metal band CYNIC performing a new song, "Wheels Within Wheels", on January 31, 2010 at the Trocadero in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania can be viewed below (courtesy of "impaledonafence1"). The track is expected to appear on the group's forthcoming EP, which is due later in the year. In addition to "Wheels Within Wheels", the EP will reportedly contain reinterpretations of four tracks from CYNIC's latest album, "Traced In Air". "Traced in Air" was released in North America on November 25, 2008 via Season of Mist. The CD's first run was a limited-edition hardcover digipack with the cover artwork embossed to further showcase the beautiful cover by renowned artist Robert Venosa, as well as eight original pieces of art paired with the eight songs found on the album. Venosa created the unmistakable cover and visuals for 1993's groundbreaking "Focus" album. This limited edition also featured a poster of the cover art. Also released the same day was the "Traced in Air" collector's box, which was only available for order online and limited to 1,000 copies. Returning from the "Focus" era for the new eight-song, 35-minute effort are founding members Paul Masvidal (guitar, vocals) and Sean Reinert (drums) along with Sean Malone (bass), and joining the band in the studio was newcomer Tymon Kruidenier (guitars/growls). The band recorded the effort at a California studio with producer Warren Riker (DOWN, SANTANA). For a list of upcoming CYNIC shows, visit the band's MySpace page.  03/15/2010

DUTCH PROGRESSIVE ROCK ENSEMBLE MANGROVE RECEIVE INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM WITH "BEYOND REALITY"
When you think of Dutch progressive rock, bands like Focus, Supersister, Kayak and Earth & Fire immediately come to mind. Now with the release of their 5th CD, Dutch prog ensemble Mangrove can proudly be added to this prestigious list. Touted by as "essential listening" by Jerry Ewing of Classic Rock Presents Prog magazine, Mangrove's latest CD masterpiece 'Beyond Reality' has been garnering international praise since its release this past June. "We are very excited about the great reviews out there," says Chirs Jonker who plays keyboards with the band. "They come from all over the world, which is truely amazing! Most reviewers are stunned and excited about the the big step forward we made in comparison with the previous albums.We are also very happy that our latest album has been nominated for the 'Italian Prog Awards', for best artwork, best recording and best foreign record. Its predessor 'Facing The Sunset' already got the IO Pages Prog Award in 2005 for best prog album of that year in The Netherlands." On June 27th 2009 Mangrove released the long expected and stunning new studio album ‘Beyond Reality’. The title seems to fit the great expectations of the band very well. On this album the development of a professional approach, songwriting capabilities and the moments of virtuosity are clearly showcased. Beside the epic tracks like "Daydreamer’s Nightmare" and the vivacious "Voyager", there is the title track "Beyond Reality" which exhibits elements of classic rock suitable for a wide music loving audience. Together with the beautiful modesty of "Love and Beyond", the 18-minute epic "Time Will Tell" and the instrumental powerplay of "Reality Fades", an enormous variety is presented to the listener. With this new album, Mangrove intends to make a clear statement: pushing the limits in an amazing way. Driven by where it all started with: passion for the music. "All we try to say to our fans and potential fans is captured inside our music: people who like it to be carried away on a musical journey, will be satisfied from beginning to end," explains Chris Jonker. "We try to bring the sensation of seventies giants like Pink Floyd, Genesis, Yes and King Crimson back to life, even though we add our own distinctive Mangrove sound." "Brilliant, fantastic and amazing work, highly recommendable!" - Progressive Rock BR. The recordings were made in a professional studio and a considerable amount of time was spent on mixing and mastering the album to give attention to every detail. This production process and the hard work has led to the desired result: a crystal clear top-notch sound in which a perfect balance between power and definition has been achieved. Mangrove can definitely be reckoned as one of the top bands in the progressive genre. ‘Beyond Reality‘ is the impressive proof. Power, emotion, virtuosity and modesty, this album has it all. Together with the superb artwork this is the ultimate masterpiece of Mangrove. "Although it's not a real concept album, the songs refer to the same kind of theme," Chris Jonker explains. "It's a bundle of observations of human behavior when dealing with time / space related issues. It's all about here and there, me and you, now and then, in short the ingredients of human pie". "Once the album has gotten under your skin, it stays there and draws you into a wonderful and versatile sound universe that is well defined and emotional." - Power of Metal. Driven by the passion for writing exciting music and longing for the stages to show their ability to perform it with an almost touchable intensity Roland van der Horst (guitars, vocals) and Joost Hagemeijer (drums, vocals) felt in 1998 that the time was right to form a band and bring their project ‘Brainstorm’ to life. The first demo recording “Massive Hollowness” was the first achievement by these passionate musicians, who renamed the group Mangrove. The year 2001 secured the perfect band: some months after Pieter Drost (bass) completed the rhythm section with his distinctive bass sound, Chris Jonker (keyboards) completed the sonic palette with the keys. Writing sessions started and resulted in the rather successful release ‘Touch Wood’ in 2004. The foundation for the typical Mangrove sound was built. But it was the 2005 concept album ‘Facing The Sunset’ which grabbed the attention of many fans of pure progressive rock within the scene. Beside the stage favorite "There Must Be Another Way", this album with four long tracks ends up with the climax of the exciting 21-minute epic "Hidden Dreams". Mangrove onstage is a synonym for emotion, passion and intensity but surely also for exploding energy. The interaction with the audience perfectly applies to the charismatic front man Roland van der Horst. His contagious stage performance gets the attention of the fans and the press. All of these elements helped to gain an excellent live reputation throughout the years. The music is characterized by the variety in tempo and dynamics, with modest passages but also heavy symphonic eruptions. The 2006 double live album ‘Coming Back To Live’ summarizes a brilliant Mangrove period with a cross-section of the first three albums. And now with Mangrove's fourth release the band has reached a new plateau in their career. "With this album Mangrove have continued to build on their past work while at the same time they have taken giant strides towards creating a unique sound that is truly their own," says Simon Hill of New Horizon's. "From a musical point of view there honestly is nothing I failed to like about this album, my only concern now is where on earth can the band go from here? I don't know the answer to that question but I sure look forward to finding out in the fullness of time!" "We built up a strong live reputation the last few years and we just love it to perform live," says Chris Jonker. "Next May we will do some great gigs in The Netherlands and Germany. We are especially excited about some special gigs: in May we will perform 'unplugged' for the first time in our 9-years existence. It will be a great experiment: what would progressive rock sound like on a grand piano, acoustic guitars, etc. in a theatre? Furthermore, we are very excited about doing our first headliner gig at 'De Boerderij', Zoetermeer (NL). This 750-capacity venue is well known for having presented many great progressive rock bands and artists from all over the world. We have performed in different countries in Europe (Germany, Belgium, Poland, UK, Switzerland) and we plan to come back more often there. Of course we would also like to let the people in the USA enjoy our performances. Nothing planned there yet. But if the demand is also there, of course we will consider this..." For purchasing information of Mangrove's 'Beyond Reality' CD as well as up to date information on the group check out the official Mangrove website.  03/15/2010

MANGROVE AND DRUMMER JOOST HAGEMEIJER HAVE ENDED THEIR COLLABORATION
Progressive rockband Mangrove and drummer Joost Hagemeijer have ended their collaboration. There is a common conclusion that a productive co-operation is not desired anymore. Manager Henri Heijink: "It was a far reaching decision for us all, but in the end an inevitable one. The band is striving for further growth and we are convinced that no musical challenge in whatever form it could appear may be ruled out. The foundation for that is an absolute commitment of the complete band." The remaining bandmembers Roland van der Horst (guitars, vocals), Pieter Drost (bass) and Chris Jonker (keyboards) are pleased to announce that all scheduled gigs will take place as planned. During the upcoming series of gigs in May drummer Remco Engels will take place behind the drumkit. Remco has many years of experience in different bands and is most of all known for his drumming in `Genesis Project' and the symphonic/progressive coverband `Knight of the Progs'. Chris Jonker: "Recently we witnessed Remco's drumming when he performed with 'Knight of the Progs'. We were impressed by his playing of the drums and his enthusiastic way of performing. I am sure that he will be able to add a tremendous value to the Mangrove live shows." During the theatre show on 21st of May in the `Gigant' venue (Apeldoorn, NL) drummer Aldert Glass has offered his availability. The foundation of his own school for drums and percussion called `Multipercussion' (www.multipercussion.com) was based upon his passion for these instruments. Aldert is very experienced in the music business: he did instruction for many different percussion groups, he was drummer and percussionist in many Big Bands and jazz ensembles and he is regularly employed as a freelance percussionist in classical orchestras and in accompaniment of musicals. In this way Mangrove has filled up the available position of the drums for the upcoming concert series in May. Nevertheless the band does not want to withold interested drummers from contacting the band. Last year Mangrove released the critically acclaimed new album `Beyond Reality'. Besides the other mentioned concerts the band is headlining `De Boerderij' venue in Zoetermeer (NL) with a special show on 20th November 2010. More information visit Mangrove Home Page.  03/15/2010

BRAZIL'S GAROTAS SUECAS ANNOUNCE U.S TOUR & SXSW DATES, SIGN TO U.S. LABEL
"Garotas Suecas shouldn't merely be listened to or witnessed; they should be absorbed." - Carrie Brownstein, NPR's Monitor Mix / Sleater-Kinney. "When temperatures rise, we itch for some steamy tropicilia. Brazil's Garotas Suecas fits our needs like a pair of pink Havaianas. With scorching guitar solos, horns and ass shaking rhythms, the São Pauloans give us the closest thing to a fantasy '60s jam between Them and Os Mutantes" -Time Out Chicago. One of Spin Magazine's 20 Must-Hear Artists from SXSW 2009. Garotas Suecas come raging from Sao Paolo, Brazil - five boys and a girl playing fuzzed-out, psychedelic garage rock nu-Tropicalia. Influences range from Otis Redding to Os Mutantes. Imagine ? and the Mysterians jamming it out with Gilberto Gil, and you might have an idea how fun this band can be. Better yet, listen to the music. Better better yet, see them tear it up live. Garotas Suecas (Swedish Girls in Portuguese) comprises Guilherme Saldanha (vocals and harmonica), Irina Bertolucci Chermont (organ), Perdido (bass), Sesa (guitar) and the Paoliello brothers, Nico (drums) and Tomaz (guitar). With six members, the band's sound is fiery, funky and full-bodied: an infectious and danceable organ-drenched brew. Their live show burns dance floors wherever they take it. Already MTV Video Award winners in their native Brazil have just completed a brand new music video for fiery "Bugalu". Garotas Suecas are now primed to take the States on at full gallop. American Dust is releasing the crackling "Codinome Dinamite" b/w "Ghostwriter" 7" single March 16, to coincide with two weeks of US dates the band is playing that month, including their second annual expectations-smashing appearance at SXSW in Austin. (Full list of dates below.) The new 7" precedes an album of all-new material to be released this fall, in conjunction with another Stateside tour. Would you like to know more about the band please visit Garotas Suecas Home Page.  03/15/2010

EDENBRIDGE ARE LOOKING FOR A NEW BASS PLAYER
Simon Holzknecht has left Edenbridge due to personal reasons ! Edenbridge wish him all the best for the future! Passion, personality, live experience and of course playing technique. If you think you can bring all this, you should not hesitate to apply for the vacant bass player position in Edenbridge! Send informations with photo to info@edenbridge.org.  03/15/2010

SHOOTER JENNINGS – SUMMER OF RAGE VIDEO
This Tuesday, Shooter Jennings released the epic, conspiracy theory fueled concept album BLACK RIBBONS! Now have your first look at the official video for SUMMER OF RAGE, directed by Shooter and his wife, Drea de Matteo. On March 25th, Shooter will appear at The Grammy Museum at LA Live as part of their public program series, “The Drop”. You can also catch Shooter performing at this year’s Coachella Fest in Indio, CA. Any attention you can give this video would be greatly appreciated! Summer of Rage - Video.  03/15/2010

SHOOTER JENNINGS AND HIS NEW ALBUM BLACK RIBBONS
The GRAMMY Museum will host singer-songwriter Shooter Jennings as he discusses his new album, Black Ribbons (Black Country Rock/Rocket Science Ventures), just days after its release. “As a Museum dedicated to the study of the creative process, we are thrilled to welcome the creators of such a high concept album to our stage,” said Executive Director Robert Santelli. “Black Ribbons contains some fascinating ideas, so we’re excited to offer fans one of the first opportunities to hear Jennings illuminate his songwriting and instrumentation in such a personal way.” The acclaimed singer-songwriter kicks off a bold new chapter in his career with new band Hierophant and Black Ribbons, a mind-blowing 70-minute opus that completely obliterates genre distinctions. On this unprecedented work, twanging dobros coexist with Nintendo chipsets; brutally assaultive passages alternate with moments of unabashed tenderness, and surreal Floydian soundscapes float above smoking slabs of whiskey-soaked southern soul. It’s an electrifying thrill ride across a dense, dark and gloriously decadent musical landscape, bound together with alchemical deftness by acclaimed novelist Stephen King, who provides the voice of Will O’ The Wisp, a late-night talk-radio host who is in the last hour of his final broadcast before the airwaves are overtaken by “government-approved and regulated transmissions.” In retaliation for his muzzling, he speaks his mind like never before, punctuating his rants with selections from the discography of Hierophant. Throughout the album’s 14 songs, Will O’ The Wisp flits in and out, painting an apocalyptic picture of what America could become in the not-so-distant future, while offering his loyal listeners—from whom he is about to be permanently cut off—the unvarnished truth. The Los Angeles Times compared Black Ribbons to works by Nine Inch Nails and Pink Floyd; the Washington Post praised the album for being “audacious” and called it “a sprawling, 20-track concept album bristling with end-times paranoia and a labyrinth of unexpected left turns.” AOL Music wrote: “It's very early in 2010, far too early to be making grandiose statements about bests of the year. But though it's only March it'd be hard to imagine a more ambitious record than Shooter Jennings' 'Black Ribbons.’” For more information, check out at Shooter Jennings home page. Before an intimate audience of 200 in the Museum’s GRAMMY Sound Stage, Jennings will answer questions about the inspirations noteworthy collaboration, and master craftsmanship that went into the genre-bending Black Ribbons.  He’ll be joined by the album’s producer, Dave Cobb. GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares Vice President Scott Goldman will moderate.  Following the interview, Jennings will take questions from the audience and sign copies of the album. The GRAMMY Museum launched its newest public program series, “The Drop,” last summer with critically-acclaimed artists Nanci Griffith, Rhett Miller, Mandy Moore, Marshall Crenshaw, Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs, Todd Snider, and more.  The series will regularly feature musicians live and onstage discussing their most recent albums and musical projects.  Taking place in the Museum’s state-of-the-art theatre, which screens exhibit-related films during regular Museum hours, the program provides guests the unprecedented opportunity to be among the first to hear from artists about their newest work in a unique and intimate setting. “The Drop: Shooter Jennings” will take place at 8pm in the GRAMMY Sound Stage, on the second floor of The GRAMMY Museum.  Doors open at 7:30pm.  All proceeds benefit The GRAMMY Museum.  Tickets are $12 ($10 for Museum Members).  Tickets can be purchased in-person at the Museum Box Office, through Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 213.745.3000.  For more information, call 213.765.6800 or visit Grammy Museum Home Page. The GRAMMY Museum is located at 800 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite A245, Los Angeles, CA 90015. With an entrance off of Figueroa Street, the Museum resides within the L.A. LIVE campus, at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles.  03/15/2010

CELESTE AND "THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS (1969-1977)"
"Finally on a 4CD-box, the complete works of Celeste, starting from Il Sistema to Saint Tropez! Many records in this box were out of print for a long time! Stunning bonus tracks included! Apart from the classic and seminal recordings of Il Sistema (including one track that would later become 'Zarathustra' of Museo Rosenbach and originally was featured only on the vinyl version of Viaggio Senza Andata), this deluxe box set features their symphonic magnum opus 'Principe Di Un Giorno', but also the haunting 'Celeste 2' and the follow-up project 'Saint Tropez'. All tracks have been carefully remastered by Celeste's Ciro Perrino. But the most incredible bonus is the original and complete demo recording for the Celeste debut called 'Prince Of One Day', recorded with a female singer and with English lyrics. A stunning historical document! This limited oversized deluxe box-set also features a huge, glossy 44-page book with the complete history of Celeste and the Liguria prog-scene with more than 100 rare pictures, directly from Ciro Perrino's archive. A must-have!" For more about check here.   03/15/2010

PROFUNA OCEAN RELEASED THEIR FIRST OFFICIAL VIDEO CLIP
They're very proud that they may announce their first official videoclip, directed by the very talented film and videoproduction company Framecat. They choose for Lost Inside (The Landscape) for this production, one of the tracks of their album 'Watching The Closing Sky'. Lost Inside (The Landscape) was chosen as semi-finalist at the UK Songwriting Contest out of 6000 candidate songs. Please let them know in the comments if you like the clip or not and if you like it: please forward the link to all your friends and ask them to look at the clip as well. On April 10 Profuna Ocean will play the finals of the Beachbattle in Saturnus, Scheveningen. They're very keen to win this battle because it will give them some money to spent on new projects to enjoy you. But... part of the game is a voting by the audience and they need lots of votes to make a chance to become winner of this battle. So be there on April 10 with your whole family and all your friends to support us and vote on Profuna Ocean. THey want a record deal. They planned to release their new album in 2011 and they want to create an album that's much better then 'Watching The Closing Sky', only this costs loads of money. In the first place they want to try to get a record deal and have the album paid by the record company. If they can't work this out they have to find other sources to acquire the money to do it by theirselves. Unfortunately record companies today don't care if we're a talented band, the only thing that counts is if you can prove you have a big audience. As tool for this they look at the number of friends you have at the social networks and how many times your clips on Youtube are viewed. So they need higher numbers everywhere and only can reach this with your help: - Sent the link of their clip on Youtube to your whole family and all your friends and ask them to have a look at the clip. - If you have a Hyves, Myspace or Facebook account: invite all your friends overthere to become a friend of Profuna Ocean and also advise them to look at the Youtube clip. Special request for their friends from outside of The Netherlands. They also like to play in many countries as soon as possible. In Germany and in the surrounding of London in UK they especially can come over for a single gig on a Saturday, in the other countries they can come over if they can do a short tour with 4-5 shows a week and for festivals and the payment will cover the transportation costs and lodging. Maybe we are in the position to arrange gigs or support slots for big acts, please let us know. THey also wiil be pleased with our input with names of festivals and bookers for prog rock acts. You can sent all your information to Chris and Profuna Ocean and check clips at Youtube.  03/15/2010

NEMESIS A FINNISH BAND AND ORIGO SOUND RELEASES NEW CD "GIGAHERZ"
The Finnish group Nemesis feels they cannot continue to "rape the Earth" and has thus created Gigaherz, a 77-minute musical journey through the evolution of life and mankind up until our present impact on Mother Nature. The Finnish electronic music group Nemesis has made music since the mid 90s (although band members worked together a decade before that) and this month they released their 7th studio album, Gigaherz, on Origo Sound. The album is a 77-minute musical journey through the evolution of life and mankind up until our present impact on Mother Nature. The album is inspired by recent environmental changes and is dedicated to the change in global temperature. Gigaherz contains electronic and ambient music composed mostly in 1996-97 and recorded over a period of years, and mixed, remixed and expanded for this release. The musical style is, according to the label's press release, epic symphonic electronica, ambient techno and broad soundscapes with touches of contemporary IDM and musique concrete, and falls somewhere between Jean Michel Jarre, The Orb and Biosphere. Gigaherz is a concept album that musically, via titles and in the artwork describes the evolution of Earth and of humans, up until mankind's possible extinction. Says founding member Ami Hassinen about the theme of the album; "The nature is a very important issue to all of us. And the recent developments concerning the changes in climate makes one think quite a bit. Actually, I have no worries about the fate of the planet, as everything finds its balance in due course, but will there be any human beings left to witness it? I don't know. For the mankind, I am sure that the next 100 years will be an increasingly challenging time. After that I think people will be already adapted to the constant change, more or less, but there's surely hard times ahead for most countries in the world. Hopefully we'll learn something in the process? Musically, this inspired us to tell a story about the Earth in audio format." The album's artwork is designed by the Finnish graphic artist Kimmo Heikkilä, who created conceptual artwork based on the musical theme of the album. Sinking pyramids, the Eiffel Tower drowning, and a planet in the shape of a human skull convey the message that Nemesis wants to promote. Heikkilä explains; "When Ami and I started to design the cover art, somehow all my schetches contained the water element. So we decided to connect the artwork to the change in climate. And I think that if we continue to rape our home planet, it might become a dead skull planet quite soon. Coincidentally, this skull image is well known in electronic music circles because of Jean Michel Jarre's album Oxygene, with which Gigaherz shares this ecology outlook." Nemesis is Ami Hassinen (synths, guitar, bass, sound effects), Jyrki Kastman (synths, keyboards, effects) and Joni Virtanen (keyboards, synths - he joined after the recording of this album). Ami and Jyrki started making music together in the mid-80s, after having been exposed to science fiction, astronomy and the music of certain artists. In 1994 they secured their first record deal; Xcelsior became the first electronic / ambient record from Finland to be released internationally. Joni joined the band in 2001. Nemesis is inspired by nature, science, astronomy, childhood stories about UFOs and ghosts, science fiction movies, visual art, and of course other musicians and bands, such as Kraftwerk, Can, Tangerine Dream, Neu, Jean Michel Jarre, Jimi Hendrix, Beatles, Hawkwind, Brian Eno, Robert Rich, Steve Roach and others. Gigaherz is Nemesis' first release on Origo Sound, and is also the label's first original album since 2004. Origo Sound is Norway's oldest still running electronic music record label. Founded in 1990, it released the first few albums of Biosphere, a series of albums by Erik Wøllo and highly acclaimed albums by Neural Network, Circular, Current, Green Isac and others. Please for more about the album visit Planet Origo Home Page.  03/15/2010

FEN SIGNS RECORD DEAL
They have just signed a deal with California-based indie label Ripple Music. It is run by two avuncular guys who go by Racer and Pope JTE. They first learned about Fen through their award-winning blog The Ripple Effect, which gave their album Congenital Fixation the best write-up its ever had (http://ripplemusic.blogspot.com/2009/09/fen-congenital-fixation.html). They asked for a follow up interview, which was published several weeks later (http://ripplemusic.blogspot.com/2009/10/sunday-conversation-with-fen.html). Then they emailed them with more questions, and finally, an invitation to join their roster. They are bursting at the seams to release Trails out of Gloom, and will be making an announcement of the date very soon. In the meantime, they're moving their email list to Reverbnation, and they hope that we will click on the following link to confirm our willingness to stay abreast of all things Fen.  03/15/2010

ASIA NEW ALBUM TITLED "OMEGA" WILL BE RELEASED BY FRONTIERS RECORDS
ASIA, rock’s first important super-group of the 80s - featuring members from Yes, Emerson Lake & Palmer, King Crimson and The Buggles – will release Omega, its highly anticipated new album of original material. The record is due in the spring of 2010 on Frontiers Records. Geoffrey Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, the four original Asia members, reunited in 2006, twenty-three years after all four had last played together. The much publicised reunion resulted in highly successful world tours, a double live LP and DVD (entitled Fantasia: Live In Tokyo) and an acclaimed studio album Phoenix in 2008 which debuted at number 73 in the Billboard charts in the USA and entered the top 100 in several European countries. Formed at the dawn of the MTV era, Asia’s first release was the best selling album in the world in 1982 and sat at the number 1 spot in the USA for 9 weeks, powered by the classic rock anthem, “Heat Of The Moment,” and four other radio hits.  Asia’s 1983 sophomore  album, Alpha, also went multi-platinum  and enjoyed several hit singles, including the #1 smash, “Don’t Cry”. During the recording of its third disc, the band splintered, and by the 1990s, only Geoff Downes remained from the original line-up. The reunion came to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band, but morphed itself into an ongoing endeavour. In 2008, they returned with the first new studio album, Phoenix, which  had been strongly influenced by the fusion of talents and heritages that the band excited the music world with back in 1982. Omega shows a new renaissance for this amazing group of musicians, which seem to live up to a joie-de-vivre that stands the test of time. Begun during the summer 2009, the writing and recording sessions of Omega, immediately showed inspiration and good feelings. “We were looking to create something different with Omega,” says keyboardist Geoff Downes. “Of course, the sound of the 4 band members of Asia will always have a certain hallmark when we play together. That's a given. But we approached the song writing with a mind to getting a degree of variety into these compositions. Hence, you will hear areas of textures where arguably we have never gone before.” Adds lead vocalist/bassist/guitarist John Wetton: “Asia is an English prog-rock band with a pop edge, always has been, and hopefully always will be. Accessible, melodic, anthemic songs with great playing, luxuriating in a bed of lush orchestration, with lyrics that strike a sympathetic chord in even the most cynical heart. There you have it, Omega is a themed album in Asia's fine tradition, without the millstone of a concept.” Steve Howe adds that “the whole recording process has been inspiring and rewarding, and I’m very excited about the result”.  “I would say these are all strong individual songs” says drummer Carl Palmer. “It was a very smooth experience, and arguably one of our best records.” For the first time since the debut album, ASIA worked with an outside producer, Mike Paxman (Uriah Heep, Status Quo) who managed to create a truly special sounding album with the highs, lows and lots of dynamics. He helped the band to put together a tapestry of sound, which demonstrates the rich strata of Asia's music.  Paxman was able to achieve this through the  songs which spun real stories of actual  events and experiences in locations around the globe. “The songs always have a message, hopefully positive,” says Wetton. “My songs are almost always autobiographical, so there is hope and experience in there, too. The lyric will never leave you on a negative thought." As with the most popular of ASIA releases, the cover art specifically designed for the project by acclaimed artist Roger Dean. The concept of the title (Omega), and the 'Year of the Tiger' referencing of the cover art underline the fact that this is real Asia. John Wetton explains: “The title 'Omega', as any fan of the band will tell you, is 'very Asia' (as is the album, by the way). It no more means 'final' than 'Alpha' means 'the first' (which it wasn't). It's a great sounding/looking word, and a bookend to 'Alpha'. In many ways, musically and conceptually, the two albums share commonality.” “We are embarking on our European tour around the middle of April, then straight in to Japan for the middle of May” says  Downes. “It's going to be fun working out the new setlist because obviously we have another album under our belt now with Omega.” For All Things about the band, please visit Asia Home Page,  03/15/2010

AUSTIN'S BLACK BONE CHILD TO RELEASE TWO CDS SIMULTANEOUSLY
Austin, TX - Austin's most talked about music duo Black Bone Child, whose debut album from last year garnered rave reviews worldwide from fans and critics alike, are back with not one but two new CDs scheduled for release on March 9th. The partnership of Donny James and Kenneth M has yeilded a fusion of styles that has been captivating audiences across the US. Between an exciting fresh take on slide guitar and driving distorted bass lines, this energetic and rhythmically based rock is sure to keep the dance floors packed and listeners hanging on every note. And now Black Bone Child has done it again with their two new albums. The first of the two entitled 'Alligator,' is a swampy, sweaty, and sexy celebration of rock as it should be. Fully electric and ready to party, 'Alligator' delivers the same carefree vibe as the debut, but with a higher dose of energy. The other half of BBC's two disc release entitled 'Take You Blind,' is a complete departure from the fully electric sound. Stripped down to just acoustic, harmonica, percussion, and vocals 'Take You Blind' is sparse sonicly, but hardly lacking. Songs like "Baby Baby" and "By My Hand" exemplify the vibe of this stripped down fun and groove oriented album. The albums together, although very different from each other, maintain a cohesive sound that is undeniably Black Bone Child. "Our first of the two records 'Take You Blind' is bit of a departure from our regular rock-n-roll electric sound," says Kenneth M. "It's stripped down but still full. We wanted to capture the 'porch' sound of us just sitting outside playing these songs acoustically to just bring a whole new perspective on what it is that we do. Our biggest fear in doing this was that it would turn out to be just a boring album of acoustic versions done poorly, but the new format has breathed a fresh air onto some older songs as well as fresh interpretations of songs from our other new record 'Alligator.' On the contrary to 'Take You Blind,' 'Alligator' is a fully electric album more from the vain of our first album, but more guitar driven and 'rocked out.'  We tried to capture the more live element of the band with this record. We tracked the album live in the studio with our live band, which didn't exist during the sessions for our first album. The result has been a more explosive, energized performance which translated to the other side of the microphone and into the final product. People should look for a no holds, electric, enegized, example of rock and roll in its purest form. We are pretty proud of both, and to present them together shows a diversity in us that many bands today haven't shown yet. It's an exciting release for us." "We spent the majority of the winter in the studio," adds Donny James. "The two records were recorded pretty much during the month of November.  The goal was to have a recording that represented what the live band sounds like and have one that went into other areas that we hadn't touched on before." "Black Bone Child, flat out rocks! Killer guitars, big beat, V-8 American rock 'n roll..." - Bryan Beck (93.3 KGSR - Austin, TX) In the spring of 2008 Black Bone Child self-produced their eponymous debut album at White Door Studios in Austin. The result is a product that showcases not only BBC’s songwriting and playing abilities, but also their talents from the other side of the microphone as engineers and producers with even their eye for graphic design. With the acquisition of Steve Hudson (live drums) and Jason King (live guitar), Black Bone Child hit the live music scene in Austin in the fall of 2008. Within 2009, the band established themselves as one of the premier Rock bands in Austin. Touring incessantly, playing over 100 dates, multiple regional tours, and two national tours has chiseled the band into a live force to be reckoned with; with 2010 showing no signs of slowing down. "Black Bone Child is an exciting new group and one of my favorite discoveries of the summer. A little Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, a little Black Keys, a little blues, and still distinctive, dynamic, and original.” - Shadoe Stevens (CaboWaboRadio.net - Los Angeles, CA) "I still love the first record that we did," says Donny. "It was so exciting because it was so new.  I love the fact that we didn't come out with two new albums that sound exactly the same as the first one. The thing I enjoy most about the new stuff is that it shows diversity and gives our fans something new, a fresh look at what they know as Black Bone Child. Both records are light-hearted and energetic, open up the cover to 'Alligator' and you'll get the picture." "If the first album is the toe tap, 'Alligator' is the fist pump, and 'Take You Blind' is the hand clap," adds Kenneth. "If that makes any sense at all." In support of the two new Black Bone Child releases, Kenneth, Donny, Steve and Jason will be performing several select dates. "The live band is in top form, we are putting on our most energetic, tight shows of our career, and just having a blast," says Kenneth. "We all just love doing this and I think it shows when we play." And what does the future hold for Black Bone Child? "We are all looking forward to getting out on the road again and representing this release in multiple cities," says Kenneth. "After all we are a band and the best thing bands do are play. It is great to be in the studio and put out a physical representation, but the band belongs on the road performing it." "We are all dying to hit the road again and deliver a good old fashion rock 'n' roll show from Austin to the rest of the Nation," Donny concludes. Black Bone Child's 'Alligator' and 'Take You Blind' CDs are available through the band's website, iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon MP3 and many other on and off-line vendors. For more information please visit Black Bone Child Home Page.  03/15/2010

NEW NICK MAGNUS ALBUM FEATURING STEVE HACKETT/JOHN HACKETT/PETE HICKS + OTHERS!
Just a quick update to let you know that PRE-orders are now being taken for Nick Magnus' new album 'Children Of Another God' (provisional release date: 15th March). Nick is a composer, producer, keyboard player & long-time Steve Hackett collaborator. A strong narrative and music of cinematic breadth and intensity make Children Of Another God a concept album that will appeal to any lover of Symphonic Progressive Rock. Guest artists include: - Steve Hackett, - John Hackett, - Pete Hicks (former Steve Hackett Band vocalist), - Tony Patterson (ReGenesis vocalist), - Glenn Tollett (formerly of The Enid). Videos for some of the tracks can be accessed via the product page on Camino Records site. For more info, videos & PRE-orders, go to Camino Records Home Page.  03/15/2010

NEARFESTNEWS TICKET DAY APPROACHETH AND STUFF
Just a quick reminder to you all that the general ticket sale for NEARfest 2010 will take place on Saturday, March 20th at 10:00AM. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Zoellner box office 420 E. Packer Ave. Bethlehem, PA, by phone at 610-758-2787 ext. 0 using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express and online from Zoellner Arts Center Online Tickets Website. Any remaining tickets for Alumni Friday featuring Riverside and Steve Hackett will go on sale on March 27th. Go to Nearfest Home Page for the particulars, come to the box office for tickets, coffee and donuts.   03/15/2010

PSICODREAMICS WILL CELEBRATE 20 YEARS
In a few years the ambient-new age music project Psicodreamics will celebrate 20 years and they want to take a look into the past and introduce new fans and newcomers the origins of Psicodreamics rediscovering the earliest albums, works and collaborations. Surely Azhdark Passion is one of the less know albums of the discography of Psicodreamics and perhaps it deserves another opportunity to seduce a wide number of fans. During this year he will post curiosities, news, reviews and more information about this album. They hope us enjoy this idea and discover something more about the music world of Psicodreamics. Secondly inform that the album of Psicodreamics "Fantasynth" was qualified for the Zone Music Reporter Music Awards of 2009 in the categories of Best Electronic Album, Best Ambient Album and Best Cover Art although unfortunately it was not nominated, however Fantasynth was included in the TOP 100 airplay chart of Zone Music Reporter (ZMR) for 2009 (over 2338 albums reported). They want to thank all the broadcasters and friends around the world for their support to this album.   03/15/2010

APOCALYPSE BAND FEATURE ON BRAZILIAN MTV
Even after more than a year of it's release,The Bridge Of Light, the latest APOCALYPSE's studio album, the tenth of their career, is still allowing new achievements to the band. The videoclip for "Welcome Outside", one of the tracks of the album, is now on the Brazilian MTV! The video can now be watched on the site of the station and has received several accolades from viewers and Internet users. To watch the video, check here. Released in Brazil in 2008 by Free Mind Records and in Europe and Asia by Musea Records, The Bridge Of Light won several indications as Best of 2008: "Best Album", "Best Cover", "Best Show" and "Best Keyboardist" to Eloy Fritsch. In early 2009, APOCALYPSE also received the trophy Vasco Prado in honor of it's 25 years career and Eloy Fritsch received the "Azorean Music Award - Honorable Mention" for his contribution to the south Brazilian music scene. For the second consecutive year, the keyboardist and composer Eloy Fritsch is also indicated as "National Best Keyboardist" in 2009 by the renowned Brazilian rock site Whiplash. The vote is still being held. At this time, APOCALYPSE focuses on producing material for their next album to be released in 2010. The band also performs at the 'Grape Festival' of Caxias do Sul/RS on 05 March. For Further Information please visit Apocalypse Home Page.   02/21/2010

TOKYO ROSENTHAL ANNOUNCES NEW RELEASE AND NORTHEAST TOUR 
Rock and Sock Records recording artist, Tokyo Rosenthal, announced today that his new album, 'Ghosts' will be released on January 18. This will be Rosenthal’s latest studio album since the highly acclaimed 'Love Won Out' which broke into four different music charts. 'Ghosts' features the previously released single, “Mister Tell Me ‘Bout The Great Depression ”, the riveting, hard rocking tune that tells the tale of the present economic downturn. Also already getting attention and advance airplay is the bi-lingual ballad “Still She Thanks God”. While “Toke’s” genre is clearly Americana, his eclectic nature takes this record into some other “neighborhoods” such as jazz on the 5/4 track “Feelings Don’t Know Any Age” . And some listeners might feel Stephane Grappelli in the room while listening to “Goin’ On Saturday”. But country is theme of the day on the very western “And Then You Sang”. And dare we forget Toke’s love of the “Tex-Mex” sound that he ventures back into on the title track, “Ghosts”. Rosenthal is joined once again by an all star lineup to accompany him on his original material and his own multi instrument recording. Featured artists include Al Perkins on pedal steel guitar, Chris Stamey on bass, Peter Holsapple on accordion, Bobby Britt on fiddle, Jim Steinberg on banjo, Tim Rae on drums and Lisa Lacheau on flute. Rosenthal chimes in on rhythm and lead guitar, piano, drums, harmonica and mandolin as well as all vocals. The album was produced by Rosenthal with additional production by Stamey. 'Ghosts' will be available at most on-line outlets including CD Baby, iTunes, HMV and Amazon.com. It will also have retail distribution via Dynasty Records in the US and Europe. “It was great to be back in the studio, especially with some of the great people I got to work with again and for the first time,” said Rosenthal. “Now I look forward to touring and playing my new material all around the world.” “Toke’s” first tour behind 'Ghosts' will be in the Northeast US kicking off at the world famous and legendary music venue, The Bitter End, on February 10. This will followed with dates up the east coast to Boston and points north. In March Tokyo will embark on one of his patented radio station car tours beginning in his home territory of North and South Carolina and hitting clubs along the way too. “After that I will go wherever they send me, likely to Texas and points west,” Rosenthal added. In late April Rosenthal returns to the UK where he just finished a successful two week tour. Also in the works is Rosenthal’s first tour of Scandinavia and Belgium. Joining Toke on tour will be lead guitarist and mandolin player Charlie Chamberlain. For more information tour dates and CDs visit Tokyo Rosenthal’s Home Page.   02/21/2010

TODD RUNDGREN TO RELEASE “WIZARD” EUROPEAN CONCERTS ON USB STICK
Todd Rundgren, the legendary rock musician and record producer, who has worked with everyone from Patti Smith, Meatloaf and the New York Dolls, today announced that his February 2010 London and Amsterdam “A Wizard A True Star” concerts will be released on USB stick. The European AWATS concerts will take place at the HMV London Hammersmith Apollo on Friday 6th February, followed by the Paradiso, Amsterdam on Sunday 8th February.  Fans who attend the concerts will be able to buy the entire two hour concert on USB stick at the merchandise stand directly after the shows. Fans can pre-order both concerts on USB stick from Todd Rundgren Home Site.  The Rundgren “Wizard” USB concert sticks are the brainchild of Cologne-based live recording entertainment company Concert Online whose live recording concert USB stick roster includes KISS, Simply Red, Madness, Foreigner and Simple Minds. The Rundgren “Wizard” USB concert stick will include two hours of live performance audio, including  “Todd Rundgren’s Johnson”; a 45-minute set of Rundgren performing Robert Johnson songs, followed by a 75-minute set of the highly anticipated “A Wizard A True Star” album performed in it’s entirety. The all-star line-up for the forthcoming European AWATS concerts includes former Utopia band members Ralph Schuckett (keyboards, vocals) and Kasim Sulton (bass, vocals), plus former Cars member Greg Hawkes (keyboards, vocals), Jesse Gress (guitar, vocals), Bobby Strickland (saxophone, vocals) and Tubes founder Prairie Prince (drums, vocals). In addition to his being a multi-talented musician and singer/songwriter and performer, Rundgren is also regarded as one of the best record producers of all time (XTC, Meat Loaf, Patti Smith Group, XTC, Grand Funk Railroad).  02/21/2010

RPWL ARE RECORDING THE ACOUSTIC SIDE OF THEIR NEW ALBUM
The Release of "The Gentle Art of Music" is coming near! Right now they are recording the acoustic side of their upcoming double album in their Farmlands Studios. Several VIP guests will be visiting them during the next weeks: Tom Norris (London Symphonic Orchestra) is coming over and will record the orchestra string parts of the album. As a little Highlight they will also have an old friend on their side: Ray Wilson (Roses) will support them with his voice on the new album. A highlight, which they are highly looking forward to! Furthermore, the preparations for their tour in March are at full speed. Be prepared, this will be a gorgeous Anniversary - Tour. They're hoping that all of we are looking forward to their huge birthday - Party in March and April.   02/21/2010

MEMOIRA FINDS NEW VOCALIST KATI RANTALA
They are very happy to announce that Kati Rantala is the new vocalist of Memoira. The band was blown away by her vocal abilities and work ethic! Memoira had received a lot of contacts from all around the world and they would like to thank everyone and wish you all good luck! The band say's..."We are excited and really looking forward to hit the studio after we have finished the song-writing process!"   02/21/2010

RENAISSANCE ANNOUNCED FOR ROSFEST 2010
Renaissance are an English progressive rock band that rose from the ashes of the Yardbirds, with Annie Haslam and Michael Dunford joining at the dawn of the 1970s to define their work with folk rock and classical fusions, including quotations from/allusions to such composers as Bach, Chopin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff. The band is most notable for their 1978 UK top 10 hit "Northern Lights" and progressive rock classics like "Mother Russia" and "Ashes Are Burning." Throughout the 70s/80s, progressive rock FM stations across the USA, such as WNEW (New York), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (DC), were turning America onto Renaissance, while the band was thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in New York City to the Royal Albert Hall in London. Records released throughout the 70s by Renaissance placed in the top-half of the Billboard Hot 100 Album Charts including Ashes Are Burning, Scheherazade and Other Stories, Live at Carnegie Hall and Novella, among others. Led by Haslam and Dunford, the voice and principal songwriter of the band's most popular lineup, Renaissance reunited in October 2009 to celebrate their 40th anniversary. The band embarked on a highly successful nine-city East Coast tour of theaters and performing arts centers which inspired them to consider additional engagements for 2010. Joining Haslam and Dunford in the latest incarnation of Renaissance are keyboardist Rave Tesar and bassist-vocalist David J. Keyes, both of whom were previous members of Renaissance and the Annie Haslam Band, in addition to keyboardist-vocalist Tom Brislin Yes, Debbie Harry, Meat Loaf, Francis Dunnery) and drummer-percussionist Frank Pagano (Bruce Springsteen, Smashing Pumpkins, Bette Midler, Barry Manilow). Together, these world class musicians are revisiting the symphonic textures, stunning vocals and poetic lyrics that embody the band's haunting and compelling international themes, with fresh interpretations of the most admired compositions from Renaissance's most prolific period (1972-78). Now, Renaissance begins an exciting new chapter, while honoring its beloved body of vintage work. Haslam and Dunford promise that the new six-piece lineup will perform the band's timeless classics with the same care with which the material was originally crafted, while utilizing technological advances to reproduce the music's original symphonic textures like never before. They're also enthusiastic about introducing the music to a new generation of listeners as well as longtime fans. "I'm thrilled to be performing these songs again, and to be performing them with Michael Dunford and a great group of musicians," Haslam states. "These songs are a big part of my life, so I'll be singing my heart out." "We're very excited to be playing for American audiences again," adds Dunford. "With these great musicians, I'm expecting the songs to sound better than ever, and I'm looking forward to it with great anticipation." They are so honored to have Renaissance perform at our 2010 festival.  02/21/2010

NEARFEST ANNOUNCES IT'S ULTIMATE 2010 SUNDAY HEADLINER
It is with great pleasure and an even greater sense of excitement for all of us at the home offices of NEARfest to welcome Eddie Jobson - The Ultimate Zero Project to the stage in Baker Hall this June. The Ultimate Zero Project is primarily an instrumental lineup and features a revolving list of virtuoso musicians. The project performs music from Eddie's latest project UKZ, his solo work and also delves into his back catalog with the many projects and acts he has been a part of and helped create. For those of you who may not know Eddie Jobson's history here is a quick synopsis for you. From his childhood in Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees, England Eddie started playing piano at age seven and violin at eight. By the time he was 17 he joined Curved Air and from there he stepped in to take the reins from Brian Eno in Roxy Music. In 1976 Eddie became a member of Frank Zappa's band. Then in 1977 the mighty UK was born. Joining Eddie in this monstrous band were Bill Bruford, John Wetton and Allan Holdsworth with Terry Bozzio replacing Bruford for the second and third releases. The band broke up in 1980 and solo work ensued. Shortly after Eddie was asked if he would participate on Ian Anderson's solo album which would ultimately become the Jethro Tull release called A. Two solo releases followed in the 1980's, Zinc-The Green Album and Theme of Secrets. Throughout the next 15-20 years Eddie became one the more sought after soundtrack composers in the television and movie industry. Thankfully for us Eddie made his return to the band format and the live setting starting with the 2007 formation of UKZ. Since this time many variations of Eddie's band and music have made there way back to the stage and with that a visit to NEARfest 2010. Please join them in welcoming one of the finest musicians and artists the world over, progressive or otherwise, and his outstanding band - Eddie Jobson - The Ultimate Zero Project as they headline NEARfest 2010 Sunday.   02/21/2010

THE GAK OMEK NEW VÍDEO FOR THE SONG
A new video from The Gak Omek for the song "Alien Television" is now available on YouTube for your viewing and listening pleasure. The song is from the forthcoming new CD "Nonrenormalizability" which will be released within the next few weeks.  02/21/2010

LILLIAN AXE WITH RANDY JACKSON: A BENEFIT FOR THE HARD ROCK HALL OF FAME
"The Hard Rock Hall Of Fame will host its first benefit event on Friday, March 19, 2010 at 9:00 p.m. at the Howlin Wolf in New Orleans.  Steve Blaze and Lillian Axe will perform as well as Randy Jackson of Zebra.  What a great combination for our first event.  Some of Louisiana's best musicians coming together to help the Hard Rock Hall Of Fame get started."  02/21/2010

TOMMY BONES THE TEXAS METAL RENEGADE, RECORDING NEW CD
Upon the heels of his critically acclaimed self-released EP, Texas metal renegade Tommy Bones has ventured back into the recording studio to work on his next full length CD. His recent EP release has garnered rave reviews worldwide, not to mention receiving solid airplay in many pockets of the world. "For releasing a EP, the response was very good," says Bones. "We got alot of positive responses. Really good responses came from the people that actually understood the style and what I was trying to do with that album. It was a very different style of music for the time we are in and that's what I wanted to do. I'm not going to jump on the bandwagon just to sell music... I want to make music the Tommy Bones way and only the Tommy Bones way, straight forward METAL". A native of Iowa, Tommy Bones started in 2006 as a solo project. The guitarist/vocalist recorded a 10-song CD titled 'Scarred', which combined a mixture of Rock, Alternative and Blues. After the CD was released Tommy Bones began receiving substantial airplay around the world. Because 'Scarred', which is available today at iTunes, Best Buy, Amazon, Target, etc, began selling tremendously, Tommy relocated to Dallas, Texas to get a new band started. Consequently, Tommy?s song "Alone" is featured on 'Dallas Rockers For Life' album, which is awareness against drunk driving. The upcoming CD promises to deliver a powerful dose of ear shattering metal delivered in Tommy Bones idiosyncratic style. "The new album is currently being recorded," Tommy explains. "It is alot more drum driven, something the first album I think was missing. We are taking a lot more time on this album on little details and production. The music itself is more aggressive and powerful. Yet, I still have that Tommy Bones drive and groove". Here's what the press has been saying about the Tommy Bones EP: "This is pure classic heavy metal with a touch of Texas for good measure. If you are into finding great bands before everyone gets wind of them, then check this lot out. Think Panteraat their best, then up the quality and that is what you get with this lot." Blog Critics. "If you like your metal white hot, then this newly released EP might run through your veins appreciatively like a quick jolt of adrenaline." Music Tap. "Tommy Bones is one of the best original metal bands to come out of Texas since Pantera." Extreme Full Throttle Radio. Along with completing the new CD, Tommy plans on touring in support of the upcoming release. For more info and a listen to a sample of the new album visit Tommy Bones MySpace Site.  02/21/2010

SUMMER CAMP FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES SECOND ROUND OF ARTIST ADDITIONS!
Jay Goldberg Events & Entertainment and Jam Productions, Ltd. are proud to announce the second round of artist announcements for Summer Camp 2010 Music Festival for May 28, 29 & 30, 2010 at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL. The 3-day tickets are currently $150 for a 3-day pass including primitive camping. A limited number of tickets will be sold at this price, and once the allotment is sold out, the price may go up without notice. This will be the 10th Annual Summer Camp Music Festival and will feature over 55 bands on 5 stages over the course of 3 days. Taking place at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL (just 20 miles north of Peoria), the festival also features a kid's camp, an extensive representation of non-profit organizations, on-site camping, lots of unique arts & craft artisans, a variety of good food and plenty of ice cold beer. New artists for Summer Camp 2010 Music Festival include: STS9, Pretty Lights, Steel Pulse, Victor Wooten, Railroad Earth, The Hood Internet, ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra), Hot Buttered Rum, My Dear Disco, That 1 Guy, Zach Deputy, The Macpodz, Papadosio, Steez, The Bridge, Dangermuffin, Heatbox, Waterstreet and Chicago Farmer. Already confirmed for the Summer Camp 2010 Music Festival: moe. (3 days!), Umphrey's McGee (3 days!), Gov't Mule, Yonder Mountain String Band, The Avett Brothers, Keller Williams, Bassnectar, EOTO, Cornmeal, Family Groove Company, Backyard Tire Fire, Dumpstaphunk, Kinetix, The Ragbirds and Brainchild. Tickets are on sale by phone at 1-800-514-ETIX or online at www.summercampfestival.com. This year's Early Bird Tickets sold out in just over a week, so buy early and save some money! Tickets are also available now for Thursday Pre-Party passes, electric & primitive RV spots. Information on VIP Upgrade tickets will be available soon. Check the website for more info.   02/21/2010

REBEL INC. BLENDS POLITICAL PROTEST WITH KICKASS ROCK
Rebel inc. may be the twenty-first century answer to Rage Against the Machine, but don't think this Baltimore-based hard rock/ alternative band will let one comparison pin them down.  With their explosive, in-your-face sound, the razor-sharp political commentary of their lyrics, and their high-energy live shows, rebel inc. is a band that defies simple assessments or categorizations.  But one thing is for sure: to really experience the raw power, passion and intensity of this band, you?ll have to check them out for yourself. The foundation for rebel inc. was laid in Detroit, Michigan in 2001, when vocalist Adam ('Strong') and guitarist/ backing vocalist Kevin ('K-Dubbs') began writing music together as a way to vent their anger. In 2006, Kevin moved to Baltimore, Maryland for work, and finally discovered the perfect drummer for his project: Brian ('B-Lock'), a childhood friend who'd also relocated to Baltimore.  Just a few months later, Adam quit his job in Michigan and moved to Baltimore so the band could get serious.  They wrote and performed furiously for the next nine months, and in July 2008, they snapped up bassist Kenny Lee to complete their group.  Just two weeks after Kenny joined the group, they were invited to join the State of the Union Base Tour sponsored by Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW) and performed at four of the most heavily deployed military bases across the U.S.; they also earned the distinction of sharing a sponsor with Rage Against the Machine, who was sponsored by IVAW at the Democratic National Convention in 2008. After the IVAW tour, rebel inc. headed straight to the studio and recorded a 6-song, self-titled EP, self-released on March 15, 2009, while continuing to perform regularly in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Most of rebel inc.'s music, which the band describes as a blend of hard rock, alternative, rap, and heavy metal, is written by Kevin and Adam. Kevin also puts together most guitar riffs, drum beats, and bass lines, although all four band members take part in developing the songs.  Adam and Kevin also write the band's powerful lyrics focused on human rights, oppression, and political protest; although the Rage comparison is clear here, Kevin notes that unlike RATM, rebel inc.'s lyrics focus on domestic problems listeners can relate to.  As Adam says, rebel inc's purpose isn't to draw attention to themselves as musicians; it's to motivate people to pay attention to larger issues and work toward positive changes.  And judging by the enthusiastic response and exposure rebel inc.'s already received, people are definitely listening. Since the release of their self-titled EP, rebel inc. has received radio play in six U.S. states, Canada and Australia, as well as several internet radio stations; the band's tunes are also in general rotation on Jango.com.  And the critics like them too: Vince Anderson, who interviewed the band for Shockwave Magazine, said that after listening to rebel inc., 'I just feel compelled to do something.' Radio DJ Gary Schmaltz expressed a similar sentiment, calling their music 'a call to action' and the CD 'a national treasure.'  Many reviewers noted the band's powerful live performances: Mike Knarr, reporting for the Polygraph Radio Truth Tour, said rebel inc. 'blew the roof off the building,' while radio DJ Stash called them 'an intense live band.' John Mullins, director of performing rights organization SESAC, said of rebel inc.'s blend of explosive energy and political activism, 'we need this in our music today more than ever.' There's no doubt about it: rebel inc. is a twenty-first century battle cry demanding to be heard. For more about the band please visit Rebel inc. Home Page.  02/21/2010

PHOENIX AND THE TURTLE AND SWALLOW UP THE MOON
Swallow Up The Moon is a new destination on Phoenix and the Turtle's musical journey. Much like the changing emotions and experiences in life, the band shifts and shape their sound from desolate empty wastelands to towering crescendos. It is an aggressively dynamic record where the violin lines, keys are on run with vicious guitars and drums at a full gallop. The fusion of instrumental rock and classical strings, while incorporating sparse vocals, lends to the uniqueness of this California quartet's sound. Inland Empire Weekly describes their music as 'delicately weaves an intricate aural web of haunting melody and ambiance served up on an epic scale.' Also their music is called 'a somber journey through perfectly aligned trees, gaping wounds and haunted gardens.' There are some moments when the dynamism gives its place to peace as in the atmospheric romance of the third track, Stuart Drives A Comfortable Car. Written at the apex of two lovers parting, Swallow Up The Moon is four song introduction on Phoenix and the Turtle's fruitful dreamlands. Cahn Curtis from the band says 'This is the most complete thing we have done yet'. 'Nothing we have done before comes close.' adds Bill Barrington. The band was formed in 2003 as a collaboration for a friend's funeral. The debut album, Sundays are a Good Day for Relaxing was created shortly after in 2004. After expanding to a greater audience, Phoenix and the Turtle released their second critically acclaimed full-length, Asleep in America. They have been signed to Fluttery Records since 2009. In their new release from the label, Swallow Up the Moon (EP), Phoenix and the Turtle are prepared to break down more walls with more sonically sound foundations and compositions. For more about please visit FLUTTERY RECORDS Home Page.  02/21/2010

HALCYON WAY HAS COMPLETED THE TRACKING FOR THEIR NEW CD
Halcyon Way complete tracking for new album Atlanta progressive metal band Halcyon Way has completed the tracking for their new CD, to be released late Spring by Nightmare Records. The album was produced by Lasse Lammert (Alestorm, Svartsot) and guitarist Jon Bodan. Drums were engineered by Mike Froedge (doubleDrive, Bloodsimple, Speed X) at Open Sky Studios in Atlanta. Lammert is mixing the album at his studio, LSD-Tonstudio in Germany. The new release is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed debut by the band, A Manifesto For Domination. It features the debut of new vocalist Steve Braun (Ashent, Siloam), as well as a guest appearance by Pamela Moore of Queensryche fame. “We’re incredibly excited about the new material,” said guitarist Jon Bodan. “This album is a quantum leap forward for Halcyon Way – the material is both heavier and more aggressive, but it also is far catchier and more melodic at the same time than Manifesto. The guys in the band all stepped their in dividual games up, and the material is better for it. Lasse did a great job on the production, and we expect the mixdown and mastering process to be completed by the end of February.” Halcyon Way has appeared live with many bands such as Helloween, Strapping Young Lad, TYR, Kamelot, Symphony X, Doro Pesch, Cathedral, Virgin Black, Samael, Vicious Rumors, Seven Witches, and many others. In addition they have appeared at ProgPower USA on two occasions, and at Rocklahoma 2008 and 2009. For more information, visit Nightmare Records Home Page.   02/21/2010

FROM.UZ, “SEVENTH STORY” THE BRAND NEW FULL LENGTH ALBUM WILL BE RELEASE ON 10T RECORDS
10T Records is proud to announce the release of the brand new full length CD release by FROM.UZ, entitled “Seventh Story” on February 15, 2010.  This will be the Uzbekistan-based band’s 3rd official release on 10T Records. FROM.UZ lit up the prog and fusion scene with their previous two releases, consistently garnering spots on critics’ top 10 lists and drawing comparisons to such stalwarts as Mahavishnu Orchestra, Weather Report and Liquid Tension Experiment. Reenergized with a fresh new lineup of world-class musicians, FROM.UZ returns with a new selection of intensely melodic hard prog-rock fusion. On “Seventh Story”, FROM.UZ continues in the musical direction they have already established, while simultaneously stretching into adventurous new territory. Vitaly Popeloff (guitars) and Albert Khalmurzaev (keyboards), the compositional core of the original band, remain on board to guide the musical direction. New are Igor Elizov (grand piano & keyboards), Ali Izmailov (percussion) and Sur'at Kasimov (bass). The music has become broader in its dimension through both new instrumentation (grand piano, xylophone & tubular bells), and the addition of vocals for the first time, supplied by Popeloff himself, with Elizov and Khalmurzaev singing backing vocals. “FROM.UZ is a band with whom we are honored to be associated,” says label president Steve Carroll.  “Anyone who enjoyed either of their previous releases will be thrilled by this new material. The core FROM.UZ sound is in full force, but with an epic sweep and melodicism that exceeds their previous efforts.” Selected tracks from “Seventh Story” are immediately available to preview in their entirety on the following 10T Records. Additionally, “Seventh Story” is available for immediate shipping to distributors and pre-sales are now being taken.  All pre-sales will ship prior to the official release date of February 9, 2010.  After February 9, “Overlook” will be available at your favorite retail outlet for immediate purchase. For more about the band and releases please visit FROM.UZ Home Page.   01/26/2010

FLASH, THE RETURN OF BRITISH PROGROCKERS
The band has reformed with original members, Ray Bennett and Colin Carter, and are currently in rehearsals. Flash created quite a stir in '71 when Capitol Records decided they were their 'darlings' and sent them on tour around the world.  They had the original "Yes" guitarist, a Billboard top 40 hit, "Small Beginnings" (a true rarity in progrock) and though their three albums are still on the market after numerous reissues (most recently in '08) -- an amazing thing in itself -- they became noted and remembered equally well for their phenomenal, high-energy live shows.  Many of the fans who are just now finding them online and discovering Flash has reunited are people who remember seeing them live as a thrilling experience, and never forgot them! Unfortunately, the band's (ex-Yes) lead guitarist was 'difficult', and they broke up after only two and a half short, whirlwind years of successful touring. Now, after so many years, it's gratifying to see Flash pick up where they left off - with their great bass player, Ray Bennett taking over on lead guitar, and very distinctive vocalist, Colin Carter -- carrying on better than ever. For more about the band and info, new tracks, and pics visit Flash Home Page.   01/26/2010

ANTHONY PHILLIPS PRIVATE PARTS & PIECES VOLUMES I & II REMASTERED REISSUE
Private Parts & Pieces Volumes I & II Remastered Reissue (Anthony Phillips), now available for PRE-order (scheduled release date: 15th February 2010). Anthony had kindly agreed to sign ALL PRE-orders! The first 2 albums in the Private Parts & Pieces series - 'Private Parts & Pieces' & 'Back To The Pavilion' - newly remastered in a 2CD set (retailing at single CD price!). Private Parts & Pieces features an extra track (in addition to the 2 extra tracks included on the album's previous CD release). For more info and PRE-ordering go Camino Records.   01/26/2010

SLEEPWALKER SUN NEW ALBUM "STRANGER IN THE MIRROR"
Sleepwalker Sun second album, Stranger In The Mirror, is out now by Masque Records. With 7 new songs, in a deluxe digipack, Stranger In The Mirror ipresents the brazilian band in its best, after the critically acclaimed debut album. Get to hear some mp3 excerpts at Band´s MySpace Site  and YouTube Site. For more about please visit Sleepwalker Sun Home Page.    01/26/2010

PETER GABRIEL'S NEW STUDIO ALBUM "SCRATCH MY BACK"
Peter Gabriel's new studio album - featuring original arrangements of other artist's songs. Peter describes this as a very personal record with 12 songs performed only with orchestral instruments and voice. The album's richly diverse sounds include the sparse romance of Lou Reed's 'The Power of the Heart', the powerful musical journey of Elbow's 'Mirrorball' and an epic arrangement of Arcade Fire's 'My Body Is A Cage'. To help craft his recording Peter enlisted former Durutti Column member John Metcalfe as composer/arranger and the expertise of producer Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd's 'The Wall', Lou Reed's 'Berlin') and engineer, mixer and producer Tchad Blake (Suzanne Vega, Sheryl Crow, Tom Waits). 2 different CD editions are available, first one is a Standard Edition: Single CD with 12 tracks, the second is 2CD Deluxe Edition: CD1 with 12 tracks (as per standard edition) + CD2 with 4 bonus tracks. Also included are codes that allow access to FLAC files of the tracks on CD1. FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec, an audio format similar to MP3, but lossless, meaning that audio is compressed in FLAC without any loss in quality. You can play back compressed FLAC files in a supported player just like you would an MP3 file. For more info visit FLAC files site. It's expected that the FLAC files will be downloadable and higher audio quality than CD. For more info on 'Scratch My Back' and PRE-ordering visit Camino Recoprds WebSite.   01/26/2010

NOSOUND PLUS WOODEN QUARTET LIVE IN ROME
Nosound are to play a special one off gig in Rome on February 12th. For this concert the band will be joined by the Wooden String Quartet and shall play their new album A Sense Of Loss in its entirety. Following this the band will play a second set featuring classic tracks from their earlier albums plus another couple of surprises. Tickets cost just €10 (plus €1.50 booking fee) and a limited number of special ticket packages are now available from Greenticket (site is in Italian, English, German). The package includes: - reserved seat in the first rows, - early access for soundcheck and to meet the band, - free download of the track Fading Silently, - special printed badge personalized for the evening. To access the offer it's needed to buy ticket online and send an email with name and ticket number to xroadsliveclub@yahoo.it. In addition there will be exclusive merchandise available including new A Sense Of Loss t-shirts, the last few copies of the Sol29 album and more. This special night takes place at Xroads Live Club and there are easy and cheap accommodation solutions near the venue should you need them (email nosound@mac.com if you need more info). Also, A Sense Of Loss is available to order from the Kscope store. For more about please visit Nosound Home Page.   01/26/2010

FLYING CIRCUS AND FORTHCOMING ALBUM TITLED AS 'FORTH'
The Flying Circus website has been completely relaunched. Most important update is we can now hear first samples from the forthcoming album 'Forth' in the 'MUSIC' section. You will of course also find some sound snippets from the bonus CD 'Back' (containing rerecordings of early Flying Circus compositions from the years 1989 to 1995 hitherto unavailable on CD) which will be part of the deluxe edition of 'Forth'. Additonally, they added the lyrics for the albums due to be released on January in the 'Lyrics' section. As usual, you will also get an impression of the new CD's artwork, as guitarist Lorenz Gelius-Laudam has once again graced the CD booklet with some great illustrations which have been combined with current photo portraits of the Flying Circus band members. These pictures of the band and the press photos were shot by Antje Görnig who already was responsible for the photos in the 'Pomp' artwork. Visit Flying Circus home page and enjoy the new website and new sound samples and pictures!   01/26/2010

DEEEXPUS - CRS' BEST NEW BAND OF 2009
They are very happy to announce that on January 16th, British band DeeExpus received “Best New Band of 2009” at the Classic Rock Society’s Band of the Year Awards!! This prestigious award summarizes the band’s hard work on getting a recognition both by music fans and press in the past year. Andy Ditchfield: "We are incredibly proud and honoured to have won //Best New Band// of 2009 at the Classic Rock Societies Band of the Year Awards and would really like to thank all who voted for us. We are made up :) 2009 has been their first full year as a band and what a baptism of fire it’s been. They played their first ever gig on 24th Jan 2009 and in Feb were whisked off to shoot a DVD in Poland where they played with RPWL. They've played Cambridge Rock Festival with Manning and Tinyfish (and Asia, The Quireboys, Uriah Heep, Touchstone etc) Rotherham Rocks with Pendragon, toured with Touchstone and have been confirmed to play Rosfest 2010 in May. They've had review after review of "Half Way Home" and "Far From Home" all of which have been amazingly positive and sometimes positively amazing!! This talented band from Durham has so far released one studio album entitled "Half Way Home" but with their superb performance at the first edition of Prog Rock Festival at the Wyspianski Theatre in Katowice, Poland (released in mid 2009 on “Far From Home” DVD), they proved that they do have much to say on the prog rock scene. Currently, the band is writing and recording the follow up to their debut album. The new material entitled "King of Number 33" is scheduled for the release later this year. DeeExpus first DVD "Far From Home" was released by Metal Mind Productions in July 2009 in 3 different formats: DVD, limited DVD+CD edition, including bonus audio CD with songs recorded during the gig at the theatre, and CD digipak. For full info please go to Deeexpus Home Page.   01/26/2010

RUA IS BEST DESCRIBED AS STONER-METAL AND THEIR DIGITAL RELEASE ALBUM
RUA's sound is best described as stoner-metal, although it’s a mix of different styles; rock, metal, punk, hardcore, funk and psychedelic. Influences of favourite acts such as Nina Hagen, Tool, Helmet, QOTSA, Faith No More and Meshuggah are audible in RUA's unique pounding sound. Nici's extremely raw voice and the stoner, grunge and metal drenched guitar riffs make RUA also sound like a counter-reaction to the often heavily stylized ‘Female Fronted Metal’. Thin female voices and violin clouds make way for fat driving groovy riffs, raw aggressive vocals and pumping drums and bass. RUA's first recordings quickly drew attention from producer Holger Schwedt (Anouk, Within Temptation) and mastering icon Sander van der Heide (Rammstein, Guano Apes), who subsequently mixed and mastered the track “Pretty”. Together with eight other tracks, “Pretty” appears on RUA's debut album “00:41:00”, which has been realeased on the acclaimed Rusty Cage Records label in January 2010. For more abou the band please visit RUA Home Page.   01/26/2010

ROGER MILLER'S MUSIC HAS MULTIPLE INFLUENCES
Roger Miller is 20 years old and a Tennessee native. He has been writing music and playing guitar for almost 5 years. All his songs are original; composed by Him, and his music falls under the genre of Contemporary Christian Acoustic. It has a Soft Rock/Alternate feel to it as well, with strong emphasis on guitars and lead vocal. Roger Miller's music has multiple influences that range from Switchfoot, to Jars of Clay. Also Relient K, Josh Groban, Jack Johnson, Andrew Peterson, Bebo Norman, Death Cab for Cutie, The Beach Boys, Third Day, and Chris Rice. Roger has worked with studio musicians via Studiopros to produce his debut album, which is now available, (titled Crayons). Roger Miller's songs focus on the human condition; their relationship to God, to other people, and the knowledge of theirselves. The music is simple in melody and sound, yet invokes strong emotions of self-awareness, faith, our heart, and hope. Roger Miller especially focuses on making music that has its unique sound and variety in song styles. Roger Miller wants to make his music and career something more than himself, so he's donating 50% of the revenue from this debut album to the worldwide mission non-profit organization ADRA, which supports the poverty stricken and people who are in need of food or housing. Please help support Roger Miller's music, and change the way people view Christian music, and help Change this world for the better. I´d like to invite you to visit Roger Miller Home Page.     01/26/2010

RETROSPECT RECORDS RELEASES 80S U.S. METAL BAND ALIAS’ DEBUT ALBUM
Retrospect Records, one the largest Hard Rock and Metal re-issue labels on the planet, has announced a licensing agreement to release 80s U.S. metal band ALIAS’ debut album. ALIAS’ self-titled debut album, released on August 14, 1987, has been digitally re-mastered and is available for the first time ever on CD. The Sarasota, Florida based band was formed in the early 1980s, released 2 albums and featured vocalist Len Jarrell (Unleashed Power, Surgeon), guitarist Mark Severns (Tyger Tyger, Jeff Austin Project), bassist Dirk Van Tilborg (Attakk, Crimson Glory, Kamelot) and drummer Phil Arnt. The CD is available worldwide at Retrospect Records and through various international distributors. Track Listing: 1. (You Can't) Take My Youth 04:06, 2. Authority 03:04, 3. Prisoner Of Dreams 03:53, 4. Take The Light 04:27, 5. Knight Of The Realm 03:38, 6. The System 02:35, 7. King Of The New Order 03:24, 8. Listen To The Rain 02:39, 9. So You're A Star 02:57 and 10. Emerald Eyes 03:12. Founded in 2003, Retrospect Records is a leading Hard Rock and Metal re-issue label. The company has released over 300 albums – many on CD for the first time ever. For additional information, please visit  Retrospect Records Home Page.    01/26/2010

HOLLOW BRANCHES ALBUM FOR FREE DOWNLOAD
Hollow Branches, one of the many projects in which Robert Hunter, Marius Sjøli (Formloff, Self Spiller), and Jason Walton (Agalloch, Self Spiller), are involved, have just released their new ep. Thematically inspired by dreams, insomnia, nostalgia and morning, “Anchored in Sleep” finds Hollow Branches expanding their sound with elements of progressive and post rock, as well as glitch. Drawing from a variety of influences including, David Sylvian, Landberk and Porcupine Tree, this ep is perfect for the cold winter days ahead. "Anchored in Sleep" is now available for free download at the following sites: http://www.strixrecords.com, http://www.last.fm/music/Hollow+Branches, and streaming at httpwww.myspace.com/hollowbranches.    01/26/2010

BYRON NEMETH GROUP TO RECORD "SLIP OF THE TONGUE" FOR WHITSNAKE TRIBUTE ALBUM
Byron Nemeth Group has been asked by FnA Records/Nashville to be part of a Whitesnake Tribute Album to be released in March 2010. Executive Producer Steve Samson personally picked Byron Nemeth Group as one of the bands to be involved in this project. BNG will be doing the classic title track from the 1989 Whitesnake "Slip Of The Tongue" album that featured Steve Vai on guitar. "Slip Of The Tongue" is being recorded by BNG at Pacifica Studios and will be finished by 02.14.10. This will be the first recording introducing new vocalist Ray Richter into BNG and the band transitioning from instrumental to having vocals along with all the heavy guitar, melodies, and progressive complexities that BNG is known for. Steve Samson & FnA Records takes pride in its relationships with quality musicians the world over and will release high-end, professionally mastered and recorded albums. Just some of the artists on the roster are Dirty Looks, Black & Blue, Tora Tora and now FnA is looking expand with Progressive Rock acts like BNG. For more about visit Byron Nemeth Group home page and for Whitsnake Tribute Album visit FnA Records.     01/26/2010

GAZPACHO AND THE PREORDERS FROM THE DVD/CD
Preorders from the DVD/CD “A Night at Loreley” will start shipping January 2010. As the free offer for “Tick Tock” Shirts (for men) went out extremely fast, their manager has offered to throw in “the Night of the Prog” shirt, for the remaining male fans that ordered at a later date. They’re informed there still are some ladies shirts left. This Live DVD/CD was recorded on the 10th of July at the IV. Night of the Prog Festival in Loreley, Germany. A magical night for both fans and Gazpacho, they were fortunate to get this caught on tape. DVD was recorded with 9 cameras and edited by concert film. For more informations please visit Gazpacho Home Page.     01/26/2010

SLAVES TO FASHION FREE MUSIC VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
Norwegian hard rock band Slaves To Fashion has made a music video for the song ”Mrs. Hero”. The video was filmed at one of the support gigs for Jorn in May and also features clips from Hollywood film noir movies from the 1940s. The song is taken from the band’s self titled EP that was recently released on iTunes.
Check out the video at YouTube.     01/26/2010

FINAL CONFLICT RE-RELEASE OF THE "STAND UP" ALBUM
Good news for the fans of Final Conflict! This progressive rock band from Midlands, UK is currently in the studio working on two new releases. The first one is their long awaited 6th full length studio album “The Return of the Artizan”. The second one is a re-release of the very successful album “Stand Up”. They are proud to announce that “Stand Up” re-issue will be released by Metal Mind Productions in early 2010. "Stand Up” is the band’s third album which includes such classic FC’s tracks like “Stand Up”, “Miss D Meanour” or “Stop”. Originally released in 1997 by German Angular Records the album got sold out in 2003. Ever since then, the band wanted to re-release this title. Andy Lawton (vocal, guitar) says: “A re-release of ‘Stand Up’ has always been a desire. However, the record company owned the recording rights to the album for a period of 5 years so our hands were tied. Also the original artwork and master recording had gone missing from the record company so they were forced to shelve any re-release plans until further notice. Album releases followed, and ‘Hindsight’ and ‘Simple’ were very successful in their own right. Throughout this period, a burning desire to re-release ‘Stand Up’ was never far away and they always harboured hope that somewhere along the line it would happen. 2008 saw Final Conflict play a hugely successful live concert in Poland with the subsequent release of a live DVD and CD – “Another Moment in Time” - helping to further enhance their reputation as a live band playing accessible progressive rock music. In 2009, Metal Mind Productions asked for permission to re-release ‘Stand Up’ on their own label. Final Conflict agreed to remaster the original soundtrack.” As part of the deal it was agreed that bonus tracks be added to the album in order to help the first recording maintain its originality whilst offering new tracks. Brian Donkin (vocal, guitar) explains: “With the re-release of  the album it was decided by the band that three bonus tracks should be added. Firstly, we would re-record “A Moment in Time”. The inspiration behind this idea was the energy behind the new rhythm section of Henry Rogers (drums) and Barry Elwood (bass), which allowed the band to give this song more depth, feeling and power. So like true musicians they locked ourselves away in the studio and got down to some serious work and before they knew it we had completely changed the feel and mood of the song yet still keeping with the original arrangement (almost). Listening to the finished project, they are all very happy with the outcome and hope that we will be too. The next decision was to write a brand new Acoustic track. So, as before, the doors were locked in the Studio and they sat down (as you do when you get older) to start the task of writing lyrics. After many discussions on different topics, they got onto the subject of gambling and the many aspects that this conjured up, they then set about writing the lyrics based upon the many dilemmas that gambling can bring, thus naming the track “Losing it all”. This then inspired them to base the acoustics around a more dark and haunting rhythm, though in true FC spirit, they still kept the FC trademark sounds. The re-release of “Stand Up” promises to be a brilliant new album and they are just so excited to get it out there!!” With all of the bonus tracks written and recorded now, the work on the re-release of Final Conflict's “Stand Up” album is gradually drawing to an end. Henry Rogers (drums): “We are moving along quickly at the moment, getting really stuck into the work that we have at hand, we are so excited to finish and hear the results of our work!” The remastered edition of “Stand Up”, enriched in 3 bonus tracks, will be released by Metal Mind Productions in early 2010. Full details to be announced soon. For more about re-release and informations please visit Final Conflict Home Page.     01/26/2010

MASK FEATURING SONJA KRISTINA (CURVED AIR) AND MARVIN AYRES TO RELEASE SECOND ALBUM 'TECHNOPIA'
MASK are releasing their second album 'Technopia 'on r.a.r.e (Repertoire) Jan 2010 and will be performing in UK and Europe in April - May 2010. This is MASK's first release since their UK Top 20 Club hit single 'Waking The Dream'. MASK are actress/singer Sonja Kristina (Curved Air) and modern classical composer/producer/Cellist Marvin Ayres. Both established innovators in music and performance. Marvin Ayres's album Cellosphere (Mille Plateaux) established him as a groundbreaking composer/producer. Sonja Kristina has been touring with the reformed Curved Air in support of the band's recent CD release Reborn (featuring two of Marvin's productions) and incorporating music from the first three classic Warner Bros Curved Air Top 20 albums, Air Conditioning, Second Album and Phantasmagoria. In the summer of 2010 Marvin Ayres will be performing/touring his latest composition 'Harmogram' using 3D sound design, in association with Martyn Ware (Heaven 17/Human League), at major international festivals. Accompanied by their band, this will be a rare opportunity for audiences to enjoy MASK's Technopia tour on their first European dates since 2005, playing London, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Stockholm and Moscow along with other towns in the UK, France, Germany and Italy. Imagine a post apocalyptic futurustic barren terrain, in which the MASK protaganists Jack and Virginia (from MASK's 1st album 'Heavy Petal') are ghostly lovers who reunite to revisit their darkly passionate relationship from the last volatile years of their past lives. Combining a musical sensibility of Bjork/Elbow/Sigur Ros/Bat For Lashes/Massive Attack, with the macabre darkness of Tim Burton, this theatrical and dramatic performance of MASK's music laced with stunning visual (Quadratura) and sonic effects will bring to life the land and love that is...'Technopia'. For more information visit Mask MySpace Site.     01/26/2010

EDENBRIDGE AND THEIR NEW ALBUM COMMING SOON
They are inmdist the vocal recordings for their 7th studio album and Sabine is doing some fantastic vocal takes. All the instruments are finally recorded and the orchestra parts are also finished. Dennis Ward is currently recording backing vocals and choirs in his studio. At the end of November Robby Valentine will do his backing vocals and choirs. Anthony Clarkson is currently working on the cover artwork. In January Lanvall will fly to England to mix the new CD together with Karl Groom at Thin Ice Studio. Lanvall and Dominik have both signed an endorsement deal with Ibanez Guitars as Max signed a deal with Tama Drums. Lanvall: "Ibanez guitars are not just only guitars for me, they are the perfect instruments for the realization of my playing and my tone". Dominik: "I may proudly announce, that a short time ago I signed an endorsement deal with Ibanez guitars. That means that I use Ibanez electric guitars exclusively. And this I do with great pleasure!" Max: "Tama drums are produced with high quality and are therefore the perfect tool in the studio and live, to let the hits of my sticks sound brilliantly. There is no moving or loosening. Stability is the right term !" And finally they have again a big Christmas sale in their shop ! You will find a lot of shirts to reduced prices and of course our complete back catalogue. For more about the band and their history, please feel free to visit Edenbridge Home Page.    11/25/2009

KRAFTWERK HAVE RELEASED DIGITALLY REMASTERED VERSIONS
Electro pioneers Kraftwerk have released digitally remastered versions of eight astounding albums on Mute. Kraftwerk have upgraded their original Kling Klang masters with the latest studio technology and these eight magnificent recordings still sound like nothing else in the history of music. Released as individual CDs and Digital Downloads, the CDs are presented in special slipcases, with newly restored and expanded artwork, including many previously unseen images. On November Kraftwerk release The Catalogue on heavweight vinyl and as a Deluxe 8-CD Box Set featuring exclusive 'mini-vinyl' style, card wallet packaging with individual large format booklets. Order the Vinyl LPs or Box Set from HMV. Order the Vinyl LPs. Order the Box Set.   11/25/2009

KAYAK DRUMER PIM KOOPMAN HAS PASSED AWAY
To our great distress Kayak drummer Pim Koopman has unexpectedly passed away on Monday, morning, November 23, 2009, 56 years of age. Their thoughts are with Pim’s family. Pim (1953) profits from the musical talent that runs in the family. His father was a classical percussionist in the Radio Chamber Orchestra, and became, unsurprisingly, Pim’s first musical teacher. Pim soon developed as a real multi-instrumentalist, because besides being an excellent drummer he is a fine piano- and guitar player as well. From 1967 to 1976 his and Ton Scherpenzeel’s musical careers ran parallel. Pim and Ton both played in bands like Balderdash and High Tide Formation, and both wrote the music for these bands. In 1972 they founded Kayak. Four years later Pim had to leave the band due to health problems and a manager related allergy. He got offered a job as record producer by Kayak’s former record company EMI, and he produced giant hits for them with artists such as Maywood and Pussycat. In 1979 he emerged with a new band called Diesel, that had a hit single in the USA with ‘Sausalito Summernight’. Another project of Pim’s that eventually took on the form of a band was called The President (1983-1985). Some more recent remarkable productions were albums for Robbie Valentine and Valensia, an act that not only made it to #1 in Holland, but was also very succesful in Japan. Pim also recorded a new CD with the re-emerged Diesel in the summer of 2000. Today Pim still works as a record producer (recently the very succesful Petra Berger albums that went gold in Holland) and lends his voice to many film productions.   11/25/2009

PHOENIX RISES FROM THE ASHES OF ARGENT
One of rock's lost classic band's Phoenix, featuring ex-Argent members John Verity, Bob Henrit and Jim Rodford, rises once again with a CD release by premier reissue label Renaissance Records, in conjunction with itsaboutmusic.com. A power trio with a style akin to Grand Funk, Boston, Starcastle and Argent, the short-lived band released two critically acclaimed albums 'Phoenix' and 'In Full View'. Both albums have been painstakingly remastered from the master tapes to insure ultimate sound quality, making this the definitive CD reissue (both albums are available on one CD). In 1973 Rod Argent was looking for new lead vocalist for Argent following the departure of Russ Ballard. John Verity eventually joined Argent later that year and there followed a period of intense recording and touring until the band decided to retire from the road in 1976. It was during Argent's final tour of America that lead vocalist/ guitarist John Verity, drummer Bob Henrit, and bassist Jim Rodford decided to form a new band. The Argent split was amicable and out of its ashes arose Phoenix. A management deal was struck with Trident in London, who also had a studio in London's West End where many major artists recorded, including The Beatles. "Our intrepid 'Power Trio' was very soon burning the midnight oil, recording tracks for their first album; now under the watchful eye of CBS Records," recalled Verity. The new band was orginally to be called 'H.R.V' - Henrit, Rodford, Verity. The album title was to be along the lines of: 'HRV like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of Argent' but the record company and the media soon latched onto the name 'Phoenix' so the band quickly changed the name. The album was released in 1976 and the band was soon touring Europe as special guests to headliners 'Aerosmith'. A second album recorded for CBS remains unreleased although a couple of singles, including a version of 'Time of the Season', were issued. 'In Full View' was the third and final Phoenix album recorded for Charisma Records without Jim Rodford who had left to join The Kinks. At this time the band also recorded a number of Russ Ballard songs including the original version of 'I Surrender', which subsequently became a hit for Rainbow. Phoenix eventually turned into the band Charlie for one album on RCA records: 'Good Morning America' before Bob joined Jim in The Kinks and John Verity turned to record production and working on a solo album: 'Interrupted Journey' which featured Bob Henrit on drums. Never far apart, the pair were soon working together playing heavy blues/rock as the John Verity Band. Since then, in addition to his work with the Band, John has been gigging and working in recording studios throughout the world, producing, playing guitar, or singing with acts including Motorhead, Tank, Ringo Starr, Russ Ballard, Colin Blunstone, Mike Berry, Dave Berry, Brian Connolly, John Parr, John Coghlan, The Searchers, Mike Rutherford (of Genesis), Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, Zombies, and Michael Schenker - just to mention a few... Phoenix - s/t and 'In Full View' CD will be available from Amazon, iTunes and your local retailer on November 10th. Other titles scheduled for release by Renaissance Records includes Graham Parker & The Rumour 'Live In San Francisco 1979', Network - s/t and 'Nightwork', Fran King 'My Sweet Elixir', City Boy 'It's Personal', Duke Jupiter - 'White Knucle Ride', Unicorn - 'Blue Pine Trees', 'Too Many Crooks' (prod. by David Gilmour), Nick Gravenites 'Bluestar' and Roxy Music 'Manifesto Alive' (live 1979). For more information visit It's About Music.   11/25/2009

RED MASQUE NEW LIVE ALBUM AVALIABLE NOW
The new download-only live album by Philadelphia avant rock band Red Masque and signed to RER USA, "Stars Fall On Me" is now available through iTunes, eMusic, rerusa.com and other online distributors. It will also be available to sites like amazon.com imminently...... Please note, there was a typo made by the aggregator and the album is being billed as "Stars FELL On Me" not "Stars FALL On Me" but we are working to correct this..... ;) The live album was recorded on Nov. 1, 2008 at Orion Sound Studios in Baltimore and features a mix of songs spanning the course of three albums: "Carbon 14", "Das Snail", "Passage", "House of Ash", "The Spider is the Web", "Birdbrain", an Improvisation and "Tidal". Front cover and back cover artwork (featuring credits and photo) are available for download at The Red Marque Home Page.   11/25/2009

SCOTT MCGILL THERE ARE A FEW NEW TUNES UP ON MYSPACE
There are a few new tunes up on the Scott McGill page on MySpace from his latest solo disc "Symptom Imperative" and the iTunes Rhapsody Napster disc "Debut" with Ritchie DeCarlo and Percy Jones of Brand X. Enjoy and let us know what you think. News on the upcoming disc with Percy and Ritchie with special guest Markus Reuter (Pat Mastelotto) on Warr Guitar will be forthcoming shortly and a second FreakZoid disc is in the can as well. Scott McGill's incredible guitar book "The Guitar Arpeggio Compendium" is available here at www.scottmcgill.com and please also check out his monthly instructional column in the U.K. based international magazine "Guitar Techniques" representing The Brighton Institute of Modern Music. As always thank you for your continued support and they look forward to hearing from you at Scott McGill Home Page.   11/25/2009

NEARFESTNEWS STEVE HACKETT TO HEADLINE NEARFEST ALUMNI-NIGHT FRIDAY
NEARfest is honored to present in a sophomore appearance, Steve Hackett and his band. There is very little that Prog fans don't know about the legacy of Steve Hackett. He is a renowned, iconic and immensely talented and innovative rock musician. He was lead guitarist with Genesis as part of their classic lineup with Gabriel, Collins, Banks and Rutherford that produced acclaimed albums such as Nursery Cryme and Selling England by the Pound (a favorite of John Lennon). From the post Gabriel era came the classics, A Trick of the Tail and Wind and Wuthering. With Steve's extraordinary versatility in both his electric guitar playing and his composing, he involves influences from many genres, including Jazz, World Music and Blues. His classical albums include renditions of pieces by composers from Bach to Satie, as well as his own stellar acoustic and classical guitar compositions. With Genesis, Steve's guitar playing produced some of the most memorable moments, from the sensitivity of his acoustic sound on Horizons and Blood on the Rooftops to the dramatic rock guitar solos of Firth of Fifth and Fountain of Salmacis. As he embarked on his solo career he developed his exceptional range, pushing musical boundaries into exciting areas, inventing new sounds and also techniques such as `tapping'. Steve's solo career as well as his collaboration with fellow guitar icon Steve Howe in GTR, gained favorable momentum in the 1980's. After GTR, Steve worked further with many renowned musicians such as Paul Carrick, Bonny Tyler, John Wetton and Brian May, who has credited Steve as an early influence. He went on record Genesis Revisited and even further back to his roots with Blues with a Feeling, whilst continuing to challenge his own `horizons' with an amazingly eclectic mix of sounds, genres and a sense of the exotic that excites his many followers to this day. Recent albums have possessed a high level of sophistication, along with an ever-present powerful dynamic, from the dramatic and atmospheric darkness of Darktown and Wild Orchids to the colorful voyage through time and space of To Watch the Storms. Steve's live electric gigs take his fans on an extraordinary journey that embodies his Genesis days right through to the present, all woven together with his exceptionally unique and distinctive rock guitar sound. With a new album entitled, "Out of the Tunnel's Mouth," Steve is poised to continue his legacy of creating excitement through his music. His return to the NEARfest stage will be a fantastic journey; from classic tunes to Steve's most recent material. A big NEARfest round of applause is in order for Steve Hackett and his band as they grace our stage on Friday, June 18th for an Alumni-Night aural feast.    11/25/2009

RIVERSIDE AND METAL MIND PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS THE FIRST DVD
Metal Mind Productions proudly presents the first DVD of one of the most important progressive rock bands - Riverside! Riverside, the band hailing from Warsaw, Poland, can best be described as a stylistic blend of atmospheric rock and metal elements, resulting in a sound similar to that of Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree, Opeth, Dream Theater, and Tool, while still maintaining an identity of their own. Since the release of their debut album, Riverside have built a solid fan base in progressive rock genre. In May 2008, the band went on a mini-tour across Poland. The most significant date of the tour was May, 17th when Riverside played a special, over-two-hour gig in Toya Studios in Lódz. The show was treated as a summary of the “Reality Dream Trilogy” (Out Of Myself – 2003, Second Life Syndrome – 2005 & Rapid Eye Movement - 2007). Apart from the great performance of the most important songs from the band’s three big releases, the band also prepared the best lighting in their live history with a few screens that showed some special visuals. The concert in Lódz was recorded and, so far, it was available in a limited audio only edition during their “Reality Dream Tour” in December 2008. Today, the fans of Riverside have a chance to see that special performance in its full glory as it is released as a double DVD. Apart from the complete performance in Lódz, “Reality Dream” DVD also includes a selection of live performances in various places around the world, including Canada, Germany and Holland, plus a documentary “Behind the Curtain – A film by John Vis” and a photo gallery. The graphic design was, once again, handled by Travis Smith (painter for such bands as Opeth, Anathema, and Devin Townsend). "Reality Dream" 2 DVD will be available on 7th December 2009 in Europe (except for France - 11th January 2010) and 23rd February 2010 in USA (via MVD). Riverside was founded by guitarist Piotr Grudzinski, drummer Piotr Kozieradzki and vocalist/bassist Mariusz Duda in 2001. Soon after the recording of their debut album, “Out Of Myself”, keyboardist Michal Lapaj joined the band, completing the line-up which has impressed fans and media alike with their great technical skills. The band’s most recent fourth full-length album “Anno Domini High Definition” was released in mid 2009. The album sees Riverside take another step in the evolution of their extremely significant sound, showing a total focus on the here and now. “We don’t want to be one of those living-in-the-past prog bands,” Mariusz Duda (vocal/bass) points out. “We feel that we have something new to say, and lots of moments on this album feature a fresh approach to some things. First of all, our main influence – our lives, or to be more precise, the speed of our lives. That’s why we had to cut an extremely dynamic and pretty short record, which suits the times we live in.” Experts have called Riverside a stylistic mix of Tool, Porcupine Tree and Dream Theater, but Mariusz Duda reckons that other influences are more dominant on "Anno Domini High Definition": “We wanted to reflect the energy of the early 70's and combine it with modern sounds. Now I think there is more of a Rush, Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple sound. But at the end of the day, this record ultimately sounds like Riverside.” Line-up: Piotr Grudzinski (Guitar), Mariusz Duda (Vocals, Bass), Piotr Kozieradzki (Drums), Michal Lapaj (Keyboards). Tracklist: DVD 1: 1. Intro, 2. The Same River, 3. Out Of Myself, 4. Volte – Face, 5. Rainbow Box, 6. 02 Panic Room, 7. Reality Dream III, 8. I Turned You Down, 9. Dance With The Shadow, 10. Parasomnia, 11. Second Life Syndrome and 12. The Curtain Falls. DVD 2: Encores: 1. Before, 2. Ultimate Trip, Live Performances: 3. Beyond The Eyelids (Unna, Germany 2007), 4. Loose Heart (Unna, Germany 2007), 5. Back To The River (Montreal, Canada 2008), 6. Conceiving You (Montreal, Canada 2008), 7. I Believe (Aschaffenburg, Germany 2007), 8. Lucid Dream IV (Fulda, Germany 2008), 9. Reality Dream II (Baarlo, Holland 2006) Bonus features: Behind the Curtain – A Film by John Vis, Photo gallery, Credits. For more about please visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page.   11/18/2009

FRENCH MUSIC LEGENDS MAGMA TO RELEASE FINAL INSTALLMENT OF EPIC TRILOGY - ËMËHNTËHTT-RÉ
"At the doors of immortality, dreams the Great Servant of Ptah, God of creation drifting infinitely within his own mind, as he tries to awaken Him." 11/9/2009 - Paris, France - One of music's most innovative and eclectic ensembles, Magma, will be releasing the final installment to their most recent epic trilogy. Titled Ëmëhntëhtt-Ré, Magma's new opus will be released internationally on November 5, 2009 on Seventh Records. This marks the second trilogy by the legendary French band, the first being Theusz Hamtaahk. Magma was founded in Paris in 1969 by drummer Christian Vander, who derived his inspiration from a "vision of humanity's spiritual and ecological future" that profoundly disturbed him. Vander was a self-taught musician, who received some tips from drum legend Elvin Jones. In the course of Magma's first album, the band tells the story of a group of people fleeing a doomed Earth to settle on the planet Kobaïa. Later, conflict arises when the Kobaïans, who are descendants of the original colonists, encounter other Earth refugees. A distinguished aspect of Magma's music is that Vander actually invented a constucted language, Kobaïan, in which most lyrics are sung. Later albums told different stories set in more ancient times; however the Kobaïan language remained an integral part of the music. "In its message, as in its genesis and its making, Ëmëhntëhtt-Ré is an intimate epic, an occult stride forward, a quest for the sublime. Initiated in 1975, its composition beholds its whole fulfillment after more than three decades. It is the testimony of an unwaveringly timeless inspiration, of which the expectant present asserts itself beyond history. Connecting wide and contrasted scenes, it sets its coherence within its very dynamics, playing with chiaroscuro, between choral splendor, operatic jubilation and hurricane of spirits beyond graves. As much a seraphic liturgy as it is a telluric opera, Ëmëhntëhtt-Ré comes as the final closure to a second trilogy, following upon that of Theusz Hamtaahk, in Christian Vander’s corpus. This is a music reaching out from a time before man time. Born at the heart of nebulas, fed on mineral glow, and riding crypts capped with a cosmic vault." Bruno Heuzé. When asked if the name Magma is part of Kobaian or does it refer to lava? Christian Vander replied, "Yes, it refers directly to lava. Back in 1966, I had written a piece and I was already in a band with Bernard Paganotti, who became a bass player. Already, I was searching for the right word. The tune I wrote back then was called Nogma. I was looking for the word Magma, but didn't know it was what I was looking for. One day the band didn't have a name at the time, and they were standing in fornt of a fairly well-known club in Paris. The club management told me if you don't have a name, you can't come and play tonight. So we went for coffee, at the shop next door. I thought deeply, you know, and the word Magma came out. At the same time, I founded Univeria Zekt. I wrote this down on the receipt from the coffee shop and kept it." When asked where the music of Magma is derived, Christian explained to George Allen and Robert Pearson that "the music and the lyrics come up at the same time. If I am singing, and if it has to be in Kobaian, they come up in Kobaian. Sometimes there is a word that is maybe French or English and I leave it in because it is there, and it's natural. The lyrics come at the same time, parallel to the music. For pieces like Mekanik, they were not written in one shot or one session. I had to run a tape recorder to be able to capture it instantly- it goes very fast. I sing with new words that I don't know, and when I am improvising further, the same words come back, even though I don't know them. But I didn't learn them, they impose themselves on me." Considered by many to be musically pioneering and imaginative, Magma makes extensive use of the choral format, their album Mekanïk Destruktïw Kommandöh being particularly reminiscent of the classical composer Carl Orf, while ?urdah Ïtah reveals connections to Béla Bartók's piano music and "Les Noces" by the Russian composer Igor Stravinsky. Reportedly, Christian Vander is also highly influenced by the work of jazz legend John Coltrane. "I am always listening and attentive to what they do," says Vander. "I am open to listen to what they do. But for my work, it is still Coltrane who actually gives me the real material to work on, to be able to move on." Magma's new CD also comes with a 57-minute DVD, "Phases", as a testimonial to the intensity of the ensemble's work during its recording. Featuring: Stella Vander vocals, percussions, Isabelle Feuillebois vocals, Hervé Aknin vocals, Benoît Alziary vibraphone, James Mac Gaw guitare, Bruno Ruder Fender Rhodes, Philippe Bussonnet bass, piccolo bass, Christian Vander drums, vocals , piano, Fender Rhodes, keybords, percussions, also featuring : Emmanuel Borghi : piano - Himiko Paganotti, Antoine Paganotti , Claude Lamamy, Marcus Linon, Pierre-Michel Sivadier : backing vocals. For more information on the band visit Magma at MySpace.   11/18/2009

DEEEXPUS REVEALS THE TITLE OF NEW ALBUM
British band DeeExpus revealed the title of the follow up to their highly acclaimed debut album “Half Way Home”. The New Album, entitled "King of Number 33", is planned to be released around May 2010 to coincidence with the band’s first ever gig in USA at ROSfest 2010. Andy Ditchfield: “Writing and production has begun in earnest and will feature all members of the band. At present we have two songs almost completed alongside a multitude of recorded ideas, riffs and passages. As we did with Half Way Home, we are hoping to post one or two videos on YouTube during the course of the albums production, so stay tuned for those.” You can already have a sneak preview of "King of Number 33" as one of the new tracks - “Me And My Downfall” - was recorded at soundcheck during the band’s most recent tour with Touchstone. Tony Wright explains the lyrical concept behind the forthcoming album: "The King of Number 33 is a tale based loosely on a local eccentric from my childhood. This man used to sit behind the driver on the local rural bus all day, every day, for several years - never saying a word to anyone, never going anywhere- just backwards and forwards between the two towns until the route finished for the night and he would go home and wait for the morning journey. One day he disappeared and rumours abounded amongst the local youth as to what happened to him. It transpired that Social Services became involved after a complaint from a member of the public that he'd made her feel uneasy. He hadn’t done anything, she was just ignorant. Anyway, he was subsequently refused travel on the bus and proceeded to have psychotic episodes culminating in his being sectioned under the mental health act. The King of Number 33 is my take on his story..." DeeExpus are: Tony Wright, Henry Rogers, Andy Ditchfield, Marc Jolliffe, Ian Raine, Stevie Wright. DeeExpus first DVD "Far From Home" was released by Metal Mind Productions in early July in 3 different formats: DVD, limited DVD+CD edition, including bonus audio CD with songs recorded during the gig at the theatre, and CD digipak (limited to 1000 copies). For full info please go to Deeexpus.   11/18/2009

MARILLION'S STEVE ROTHERY RESURRECTS THE WISHING TREE
2009 release from The Wishing Tree, an acoustic side project from Marillion guitarist Steve Rothery and British vocalist Hannah Stobart. Nearly 10 years after their debut album, the duo are back with a new collaboration, co-written by Steve and Hannah, with Steve playing all instruments except the drums, as well as producing and engineering it. Rothery and Stobart are joined by Paul Craddick who plays the drums, on material which Rothery describes as a cross between Portishead and Alanis Morissette. Stobart has a lovely ethereal quality to her voice, which shows in the whole recording, and features some delicate and ghostly harmonies, some mandolin and understated guitars providing a backdrop to the vocals. Ostara is a melodic and charming album which will attract fans of Tori Amos, Pentangle, Portishead and obviously, Marillion. EAR. It has been ten years since progressive rock band The Wishing Tree released their debut album, Carnival of Souls. On January 19, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release their lush and evocative new album Ostara. Marillion guitarist Steve Rothery founded The Wishing Tree. Formed in 1996, Rothery's desire to start an acoustic music project with a female vocalist led him to British singer Hannah Stobart. The two started writing together, crafting a wistful, gorgeous sound that is both haunting and soothing. This new CD, produced and engineered by Rothery, not only boasts eight original songs, but two bonus live tracks, "Fly" and "Ostara". Unique in its conception, Ostara was written and recorded on opposite sides of the world, with Stobert working from her home in California and Rothery in his home studio in Buckinghamshire, England. Joined by drummer Paul Craddick (of Enchant, and Hannah's husband), Ostara is the perfect marriage of Stobart's angelic, lilting vocals and Rothery's superb guitar work. A master at his craft, his harmonies are understated when necessary, allowing Stobart's vocals to take precedence, yet when given the chance, his trademark solos truly sing out in the mix of this enchanting blend. The delicate, ghostly harmonies, executed on mandolin as well as guitar, paired with Stobart's soaring melodies, result in artwork that is truly a listening experience. Fans of Steve Rothery will also enjoy Marillion's latest CD Less Is More, released December 8 via Eagle Rock Entertainment. Track Listing: 1.) Ostara, 2.) Easy, 3.) Hollow Hills, 4.) Seventh Sigh, 5.) Falling, 6.) Fly, 7.) Kingfisher, 8.) Soldier. Bonus Tracks: 1.) Fly (live), 2.) Ostara (live). For more about the band and the album please visit The Wishing Tree website.   11/18/2009

LONGSHANKS RELEASE A NEW SONG FOR THE ALBUM "IN DREAMS"
Finelly they release the penultimate song for their upcoming CD, the 6:47 minutes ballad "In Dreams". In this song they take a different approach to their theme 'setting out on a journey' they will journey in their dreams... Read more (e.g. on an additional band member...) on their Home Page.   11/18/2009

FROM.UZ IS NOW WORKING ON A STUDIO RECORDING OF THE SET LIST
In September 2008, FROM.UZ played for two nights at the State Youth Theater of Uzbekistan to a full house. The new material, entitled "Seventh Story" was filmed and recorded live. The band is now working on a studio recording of the set list, which we hope to release by mid-year 2009. Something new on the new album is the addition of vocals by Vitaly Popeloff. The set list includes: Perfect Love, Influence of Time, Taken, Bell of teh Earth, Desert Circle, Parallels and Perfect Place. For more about please visit FROM.UZ Home Page.  11/18/2009

RUSH LIVE ALBUM 'WORKING MEN'
Anthem Entertainment has announced the release of Working Men, the first 'best of' live performance compilation from renowned rock trio Rush. Released in the UK on Monday November 16th, this outstanding live collection is released on CD and digital download by Atlantic Records. Culled from Anthem Entertainment and Zoë Vision's three other Rush releases - Rush in Rio, R30 & Snakes & Arrows Live - the Working Men album features live recordings of the band's greatest hits as well as one previously unreleased track, One Little Victory (see track listing listed below). RUSH, comprised of Geddy Lee (vocals, bass, keyboards), Alex Lifeson (guitar, vocals), and Neil Peart (drums and percussion), are, without question, one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history, equally famed for both their virtuoso musicianship and provocative songwriting. Just last year, a career-chronicling Rolling Stone feature praised the band for its continuing artistic vitality, noting that, "It's true that Rush doesn't mean today what it did in '76 or even '96. It may mean more." The sentiment was echoed in subsequent pieces published in North America earlier this year in Entertainment Weekly and Spin. Rush's enduring pop culture relevance is perhaps best evidenced by a pair of high-profile appearances - a rare national television performance and interview on Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" in 2008 (the band's first TV appearance since 1975), and a pivotal role in the storyline of the hit comedy film, I Love You, Man. Released this past spring, the band made a cameo in the film, which starred Paul Rudd and Jason Segal.  Since releasing their self-titled debut album in 1974, Rush has achieved worldwide sales exceeding 35 million units, including such acclaimed works as 1976's "2112," 1981's Moving Pictures, 1996's Test For Echo, and 2002's Vapor Trails. The band's most recent studio collection, 2007's Snakes & Arrows, made a triumphant debut on the Billboard 200 upon its initial release, entering the chart in the #3 spot. The album's success marked Rush's highest chart debut since 1993, as well as the group's eleventh top ten album in the U.S. Track Listing: 1. Limelight (S&A live), 2. The Spirit of Radio (R30), 3. 2112 (Rush in Rio), 4. Freewill (S&A live), 5. Dreamline (R30), 6. Far Cry (S&A live), 7. Subdivisions (R30), 8. One Little Victory (previously unreleased, R30), 9. Closer To The Heart (Rush in Rio),  10. Tom Sawyer (S&A live), 11. Working Man (R30), 12. YYZ (Rush in Rio). For more about you must vist Rush Website.  11/18/2009

SIX RED CARPETS FREE TRACKS ON THEIR FACEBOOK PROFILE
The Six Red Carpets will post some unreleased songs on their FACEBOOK profile. This is a gift for all the FB fans of the band. Every week they'll upload a track ... all you have to do is to get on their Facebook space and become a fan! For more about please visit The Six Red Carpets Home Page.    11/18/2009

SLAVES TO FASHION DOWNLOAD THEIR NEW EP ON ITUNES
The new EP from Norwegian melodic hard rock band Slaves To Fashion is now available on iTunes. The EP is called ”Slaves To Fashion” and it features four tracks. ”Mrs. Hero” (local radio single) and ”Left Out In The Cold” are both showcasing the trademark Slaves To Fashion sound: dark modern guitars, catchy melodies and progressive twists. ”The Garden” is a remix from the band’s critically acclaimed debut album ”Crossing Over” that was released under the name P:O:B in 2007. ”Out Of Here” is a moody and experimental song showing another side of the band. Tracklist: 1. Mrs. Hero, 2. Left Out In The Cold, 3. The Garden (remix) and 4. Out Of Here. The EP is released by the band’s own label, FishFarm Records, and is a taste of what to expect of the next full length Slaves To Fashion album. Check out the new songs and everything about the band at Slaves To Fashion Home Page.     11/18/2009

THE ENID TO PERFORM AT NEARFEST 2010
NEARfest is proud to be able to present for the first time in the U.S, the enigma that is THE ENID. Called by many as THE band that actually DID 'Rock the Classics' at a time which saw the rise of Punk music in Britain, this band were bringing in audiences up and down the UK by the thousands compared to the few hundreds that the Sex Pistols were attracting. Yet outside the UK they were and staggeringly largely remain virtually unknown. "The biggest cult band in Europe," "banned by Glastonbury" and "feared by record companies;" just some of what has been said of The Enid. Formed in 1974 by keyboard player Robert John Godfrey who eschewed a possible career as a concert pianist, The Enid fused rock based music with the power, dynamics and scale of symphonic classical music. Godfrey had stopped hanging around the Royal Festival Hall and started hanging around the Roundhouse, where he met and joined the young Barclay James Harvest, living and working with them over a three-year period in a farmhouse on the Yorkshire Moors. The Enid signed first to BUK records, a tiny label which was then a part of EMI, and in 1976 released their first album, "In the Region of the Summer Stars", based on the Tarot sequence and on the writings of Charles Williams. Comparisons to any other bands were pointless; Progressive rock it wasn't, although in many ways it was what prog rock should have been. The most "indie" of the "indie bands", The Enid and their fan base took direct control of all aspects of their career, from recording to mastering, artwork to distribution ? decades before Marillion adopted the same ideas. With no less than 12 albums under their belt, The Enid are poised to continue further into the 21st century, culminating with their introduction to the U.S. courtesy of your friends at NEARfest. With band leader Godfrey at the helm, current members Jason Ducker, Max Read and Dave Storey are ready to unleash their insanity onto the NEARfest stage. Join us by welcoming U.S. first timers The Enid, as they prepare to bring their music to the NEARfest 2010 faithful. More about the band please visit The Enid Home Page.    11/18/2009

IONA TO PLAY NEARFEST 2010
NEARfest is proud to announce the addition of Iona to the 2010 lineup! Hailing from England, Celtic symphonic progressive rock band Iona was formed in 1989 by multi-instrumentalists David Fitzgerald and Dave Bainbridge and joined soon after by lead vocalist Joanne Hogg. The inspiration for the band and its name came from a visit that Fitzgerald made to the serene and beautiful Scottish island of Iona the year prior. By the time Iona released their self-titled debut album in 1990, Nick Beggs (bass), Fiona Davidson (Celtic harp), Peter Whitfield (strings), Troy Donockley (Uillean pipes) and Frank Van Essen (drums, violin) had joined the band. In 1992, the band released "The Book of Kells," a concept album based on the legendary Irish tome . Terl Bryant took over on drums and percussion for this album after the departure of Frank Van Essen. Fitzgerald also left the band to pursue a degree in music. The band's third album, "Beyond These Shores" (1993), which included guest musician Robert Fripp, was loosely based on the voyage of St. Brendan. "Journey into the Morn" (1995) was a more straight-forward release inspired by the hymn "Be Thou My Vision," which bookends the album in Gaelic and features Máire Brennan, lead singer of Celtic/New Age band Clannad. After two live albums, Bryant left the band and Van Essen returned to play drums on 2000's "Open Sky," which was followed in 2002 by a boxed set called "The River Flows," the first release on the band's own label. The box contains their then-out-of-print first three albums remastered, as well as a fourth disc of unreleased tracks. After six years without a new studio album, the band released the gorgeous "The Circling Hour" in 2006 as well as a 2-disc live DVD "Iona: Live in London," featuring a 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround mix. Since then, the band has continued to play live shows across Europe to enthusiastic crowds. The band has also returned to the studio to begin work on a new album which will see the light in 2010 to coincide with their 20th anniversary. In helping to celebrate the band's milestone, NEARfest is very pleased to welcome Iona to the stage to treat us to their wonderful stylistic weave of Celtic music and symphonic rock. For more about please visit Iona website.   11/18/2009

KARNATAKA STRICTLY LIMITED EDITION (1000) ALBUM "THE GATHERING LIGHT"
Karnataka are very pleased to announce the forthcoming album "The Gathering Light". Strictly Limited Edition (1000), signed gatefold digipak available to pre-order from the on-line shop. Standard jewel case CD release will be available early in 2010 from all good record shops (major and independent) and on-line retailers. Track listing: The Calling, State Of Grace, Your World, Moment In Time, Serpent And The Sea, Forsaken (Forsaken, Glowing Embers, Distant Echo), Tide to Fall and The Gathering Light. The album will initially only be available as a limited edition signed gatefold digipak. This version will not be available in the shops or from any other on-line retailer. The album is currently being mixed/mastered and further details will be announced soon. For more about the band and release, please visit Karnataka Home Page.    11/18/2009

NEMESYZ AND THEIR THE FIRST EP IS FINISHED
It took them some time, but after many hours of hard work and dedication the first EP from NeMesyz is finished! The disc will see the light of day on the 30th of November through Layered Reality Productions and it will be available for sale through the band and the label. The EP will hold 4 song and a music video and all that will be placed in a well designed Digipack. So if you consider the fact that this package will only cost you €7,50/$11,00 there really is no reason not to buy it, now is there? Anyway, no more shameless selfpromotion, the only thing they want to say is “Buy this record and enjoy it and if you don’t you’ll only deprive yourself of something good”. For more about the band and their release visit NeMesyz at MySpace.    11/18/2009

THE BIG BIG TRAIN ALBUM "THE UNDERFALL" ARRIVING SOON
The new Big Big Train CD, The Underfall Yard will be released on 15th December. From today until the release date, the album can be pre-ordered here for an introductory price of just £8, which includes worldwide shipping. It will not be available from any other source before the 15th December. Pre-orders will be shipped so that the CD arrives on, or slightly before, the release date. The Underfall Yard is the first Big Big Train album to feature our new singer David Longdon. Across the 60 minutes of the album there are also powerful performances from Nick D’Virgilio, Francis Dunnery, Jem Godfrey and Dave Gregory. They have made all 23 minutes of the title track available for free download in high quality audio here. Even if you don't want to buy any Big Big Train music at the moment, please download the track and listen to what we think is an important contribution to progressive music. If you are new to Big Big Train, you can read about us here. If you want to buy a CD but are not sure which one(s) to splash out on, a beginner's guide to our CD's is here. Our shop, where you can buy CD's securely, is here. On the shop page, there is a music player where another song from The Underfall yard can be listened to (plus some songs from earlier albums.) The Underfall Yard is a collection of songs which tell stories, some old and some new.  The listener will travel through the tunnels made by the great Victorian engineers in England’s chalkhills, will hear the mournful laments of coastal villages lost to the sea on storm-filled nights, will meet the grand architect of castles, and hear the tale of the man who saved a great cathedral from collapse by diving under its flooded foundations. We hope you enjoy our new music. If you want to know mora about the album and the band, please visit Big Big Train Home Page.    11/18/2009

THE SYN, HAS JUST BECOME VISUAL THANKS TO PETER MCGUINESS
The extraordinary music from the legendary 60s psychedelic band, The Syn, has just become visual thanks to Peter Mcguiness, an independent film director from Sydney, Australia.  The result is the remarkable 'New Reality' video made from a track off of the The Syn's new album, 'Big Sky' and now screening across the Web in 3 separate and unique versions. The inspiration for this project came about when Steve Nardelli, lead vocalist and writer of The Syn, met up with Peter Mcguiness on the All Good People music discussion forum. "We are always looking to collaborate with quality musicians, performance artists, composers and theatre companies to create unique music film," said Mcguiness. The synergy between Nardelli's song writing and Mcguiness' creative film making resulted in a signature Mcguiness music video. "Peter is a true independent of mind and it is evident in his productions. Working without the MTV gloss, Peter delivers well-crafted, thought-provoking and unique music films. With "New Reality," we have a visual interpretation presenting an important message related to the times we are living," said Nardelli. About The Syn: While THE SYN has their eyes firmly focused on the future of progressive rock, their roots go back to the 1960s. One of the precursors of prog rock and adorned with some of the most important musicians of the genre across its remarkable history, The Syn today are a band that operate intently in the modern day world, focused on pushing the envelope of modern progressive rock and moving it in new directions. Their Big Sky core lineup of Steve Nardelli, Francis Dunnery and Tom Brislin may have only been a musical machine since 2008, but this is a band with a long and storied history of constantly exploring new musical soundscapes. As a follow up to the successful Big Sky tour shows, The Syn is preparing the release of the live CD recording of their acclaimed performance at RosFest and a live video/documentary of their benefit shows and workshops at the Gloucester High School in Virginia. If you want to know more please visit The Syn Home Page.  11/18/2009

SHAMALL ALBUM "IS THIS HUMAN BEHAVIOR" IS COMING SOON
On his more recent albums "who do they think they are" to "questions of life" Shamall dealed with dishonest politics or with questions of the meaning of life. With the new concept album "is this human behavior" Shamall addresses himself to social coldness and superficialty of the society. The 65-minute title theme of the first cd "is this human behavior" shows in a familiar, multi-faceted way with different tension curves, that Norbert Krueler feels musically at home in the psychedelic- progressive era of the seventies and eighties, but without sounding ancient. But it's not the music itself, which reminds of the well-known musicians of the 70's and 80's - rather the sounds used by Shamall and his inspired way of playing conveys this feeling. The title theme of the second cd "living incommunicado" goes on with the first cd, but with different melodies and soli. The whole album is another proof, that Shamall is not tired to perfect the work on his musical project. However, Shamall's 12th album is anything but musical fastfood, which you could listen to only by the way. And as no meaningful speech goes without pathos, Shamall's music is intrinsically tied to pathos as well. But if one likes this kind of music and goes in for musical long tracks, with this album you'll get one's money's worth. Guest musicians on some tracks are - as on previous shamall releases - Matthias Mehrtens on guitar and Mike Bach on drums. For more about please visit Shamall site to pre-order the new album.   11/18/2009

APOCALYPSE RECEIVES TROPHY VASCO PRADO
In the last October 30th, during it's presentation at the '13th Jornada Nacional de Literatuda de Passo Fundo (RS)' (National Day of Literature), APOCALYPSE received the trophy Vasco Prado in honor of it's 25 years career. The presentation of the Classic Rock/Progressive group attended by an audience of over 2 thousand people and was broadcast live on local television for the entire region of Passo Fundo. The group played classical songs from your European CDs such as "Cut" and "Refuge", and the compositions "Ocean Soul", "Follow The Bridge", "Not Like You" and "Last Paradise", all present in the new album of the band, The Bridge of Light. The '13th Jornada Nacional de Literatura de Passo Fundo' is one of the most important cultural events in Brazil. This year the event happened at the Passo Fundo University and had the presence of big names in the international literary scene as the Mexican Guillermo Arriaga, the Dutchman Wim Veen, the Italian Carlo Frabetti and the Angolan José Eduardo Agualusa. Representing the Brazilian literature, attended Moacyr Scliar, Ignacio de Loyola Brandão, Fernando Bonassi, Lucia Santaella and Marcello Dantas. "We are really excited about this honor", celebrated APOCALYPSE's keyboardist, Eloy Fritsch, who received the trophy on behalf of the band. "The event was really excellent and the organization is to be congratulated for prioritizing the art and culture. We would like to thank all the affection and attention."  In addition to the performance with APOCALYPSE, Eloy Fritsch also participated in the event during the debate 'Literature, theater, music and new technologies'. About APOCALYPSE: In 25 years of career, APOCALYPSE has become one of the biggest names in Brazilian progressive rock scene. Its vast discography includes 10 albums released in Brazil, Europe, USA and Asia - including a double album recorded live in the United States during the first international tour of the band. At this time, APOCALYPSE promotes it's latest effort, The Bridge Of Light, released in Brazil in 2008 by Free Mind Records and in Europe and Asia by Musea Records. In researchs sponsored by the specialized  press as Whiplash and Roadie Crew, The Bridge Of Light won several indications as Best of 2008: Best Album, Best Cover, Best Show and Best Keyboardist to Eloy Fritsch. In early 2009, Eloy Fritsch also received the "Azorean Music Award - Honorable Mention" for his contribution to the south Brazilian music scene. Two videos have been produced for The Bridge Of Light. The latest is for the track "Welcome Outside" and can be  watched in the link.  Just this year of 2009, APOCALYPSE has already done two tours in promotion to The Bridge Of Light. The first happened in April and included shows in the state of Sao Paulo. The second and most recent occurred in September and included shows in the states of Sao Paulo and Parana. In addition to touring, the band performs with  frequency in Rio Grande do Sul, its home state. Apocalypse is formed by Gustavo Demarchi (vocals, flute), Eloy Fritsch (keyboards), Ruy Fritsch (guitar), Magoo Wise (bass) and Chico Fasoli (drums). For Further Information please visit Apocalypse Home Page.   11/18/2009

ALDO PINELLI RELEASED HIS SECOND SOLO ALBUM
Aldo Pinelli, the musician from Hábitat (Argentina), has released his second solo cd titled "Mantos y Tapices Sobrepuestos: Otra Selección de Viejas Canciones” (Superposed Shrouds and Tapestries: Another Selection of Old Songs”), An instrumental classical-antique music-celtic fussion. Now plus acoustic progressive details. For more about the musician please visit Aldo Pinelli Home Page.  11/18/2009

WISHBONE ASH PLEASE WILL THE REAL STAND UP
Founding member of the legendary classic rock band Wishbone Ash, Andy Powell, is setting the record straight about the recent controversy surrounding the ownership and usage of the group's name. A band fronted by another founding member, Martin Turner, is also being promoted as Wishbone Ash, creating confusion among fans and press. “It’s local promoters taking advantage of the good work this band has been doing,” said Powell. Most recently, Martin Turner’s German shows have been promoted under the Wishbone Ash moniker, prompting Powell to seek legal recourse. “Myself and the band’s business partners—people who have worked for years to keep the band treading the boards and keeping the recorded catalog current—see it as a raiding party,” said Powell. “I am now taking legal action in respect of this infringement of my trade mark. It’s time to stop this nonsense.” Powell, a guitar legend in his own right, and the only remaining founding member, has recorded and toured exclusively under the Wishbone Ash banner since 1969--more than 40 years. In the last 20 years alone, Wishbone Ash has released 15 CDs (including nine studio releases) and five DVDs. None of these has featured Martin Turner. The band’s most recent release, The Power of Eternity, has garnered rave reviews from the music press internationally.  During the band’s early history, the lineup changed several times, with founding members leaving and rejoining. When, in 1993, Powell became the sole remaining original member, there was no thought of calling it a day. Powell later registered the trade mark Wishbone Ash in 1998. He has maintained the mark since then, producing numerous DVDs and CDs of new material. In addition to being co-writer on the majority of the recorded works, he’s performed around 4,000 Ash shows worldwide. "My mandate was to simply carry forward with the band," Powell said, "as has always been the case since 1974 when the first member to leave, Ted Turner, tendered his resignation. This continuity has overwhelmingly always been what the fans have wanted, and they proved that in the early 1990s by backing our recording and promotion of the album Illuminations. At no time did I consider the band dead; we'd been through worse”. In recent years Martin Turner registered www.wishboneash.co.uk . He then tentatively resurfaced using the name 'Wishbone featuring Martin Turner' performing Wishbone Ash songs from the very early part of the band's career. All was fine for a year or so until the name of Martin Turner’s band was changed to Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash. His ".co.uk" website started pushing the Wishbone Ash aspect of the name firmly to the fore. Then, making matters worse, some Turner gigs were actually being promoted as ‘Wishbone Ash’ concerts. Fans who turned up expecting the long-running Powell-fronted band were disappointed and confused. Journalists who were unaware of the band’s history sometimes wrote about Turner’s band as if it actually were Wishbone Ash. Inevitably, this sparked claims of ‘passing off ’ from Wishbone Ash and its business partners. "Over the years, band members had left in a piecemeal fashion to pursue solo careers and other ventures," said Powell. "Anyone who has followed the band knows that Martin Turner, for example, quit in 1980 and again in 1991 after a brief three-year reunion.” After leaving in '91 Martin produced a solo album. “His own website says that he'd 'moved on' from Wishbone Ash, using the name Martin Turner and calling the CD Walking the Reeperbahn,” said Powell. “This had nothing to do with Wishbone Ash and seemed to be a move on Martin Turner's part to distance himself from the band and take his career in another direction. His website actually at one point admitted that I was a continuous member of the one true band and that he was not." Founded in England in 1969, WishboneAsh has released more than 30 albums to date, and has been touted as one of the first dual-guitar rock bands. Rolling Stone magazine counted Ash guitarists Andy Powell and Ted Turner among the world’s top 20 best of all time. The group’s 1972 classic release, Argus, was voted Album Of The Year by readers of UK’s Melody Maker and NME. It was remixed and reissued in 2002 as a special 30th anniversary edition and consequently was the fastest selling reissue in MCA’s history. Powell’s name is synonymous with the Gibson Flying V. Over the years, he has been prominently featured in such notable publications as Guitar, Guitarist and, most recently, Vintage Guitar. He has also recorded with the likes of George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Stewart Copeland and Renaissance. Wishbone Ash’s current line-up also features former Gringos Locos guitarist Jyrki “Muddy” Manninen, a five-year Ash veteran who brings a rootsy style to the band with his slide playing. Bassist Bob Skeat has been in Wishbone Ash for 12 years and has also in the past, worked with everyone from Colin Blunstone, Gilbert O’Sullivan and Chris Farlowe to Princess Stephanie of Monaco. Interestingly, he worked with Ash’s other 1970s guitar titan, Laurie Wisefield, in Brian May’s musical hit “We Will Rock You.” Drummer Joe Crabtree has worked with the likes of King Crimson's David Cross and Pendragon. Wishbone Ash has embarked on an intensive tour plan taking the band 'round to next July in celebration of its 40th anniversary. The October tour of the UK began on the 2nd and ends the first week of November. Then in January 2010 the band hits the road again for the Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia. Canada's blues prodigy, Jimmy Bowskill, will be opening for the band on this six-week tour. For a complete list of tour dates and venues, visit Wishbone Ash Tour Dates. In addition, the band will revisit Warsaw and Poznan in Poland, along with the Czech Republic. A USA East Coast tour is in the final booking stages, planned for March 2010. Italy and Switzerland will also be visited this time around, just prior to the usual spring UK tour. A USA West Coast tour and a possible Far East visit are being discussed for June. The new DVD Wishbone Ash 40 - Live in London was released in Europe on Oct. 10. This 40th anniversary show from Shepherd's Bush Empire was produced by RCN TV, the same team who made the highly acclaimed Wishbone Ash Live in Hamburg DVD. For more information visit the official Wishbone Ash website.      11/18/2009

BANDA DO SOL NEW ALBUM'S COVER REVEALED
The Brazilian progressive rock veteran group, BANDA DO SOL finished recording Tempo, the new album that marks the return of the band to the studios after 27 years. The album was mixed in California/USA by none other than Billy Sherwood. Also known for being YES guitarist, Billy signs an extensive discography as a producer, including albuns from bands like Motörhead, Toto, Ratt, Paul Rodgers and YES itself. Billy Sherwood also relased some solo works and two albuns with CONSPIRACY, a side-project with the YES bassist Chris Squire. Currently, Billy leads CIRCA, a new band formed by other YES heroes such us the drummer Alan White and the keyboardist Tony Kaye. Besides Billy's signature on the mixing, Tempo was mastered in USA by the legendary sound engineer Joe Gastwirt. High-level profissional, Joe Gastwirt has mastered albums from people like Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Ramones, Talking Heads, The Beach Boys, Pearl Jam, Santana, Grateful Dead, Neil Young, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Miles Davis and even Michael Jackson! While the album is not released, BANDA DO SOL finished the front cover and the complete artwork of the new album. The responsable for the creation was Robson Piccin, renowed Brazillian artist who already worked with bands like Apocalypse, Lumina, Laudany, Hevilan, Lothlöryen, etc. Tempo will bring the tracks "Som do Sol", "Tempo", "Prana", "Mahavishnu", "Sinal da Liberdade", "Yes Blues", "Praça da Paz", "Voar", "Quem Eu Sou?", "Fabito", "Maya" and "Janavatar". The album is expected to reach the stores in January/2010. For Further Information visit Banda do Sol at MySpace.    11/18/2009

CHICKENFOOT NAMED 'BEST NEW BAND' AT CLASSIC ROCK AWARDS
Classic Rock Magazine last night named "Chickenfoot" as 2009's 'Best New Band' at their annual awards ceremony that took place at London's Park Lane Hotel. While unable to attend the London ceremony, the band recorded a personalized video acceptance speech which played out to rapturous applause. The star studded event was attended by such legends as Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Pete Townshend of The Who, Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones,  Brian May of Queen, Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Jeff Beck, Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, Iggy Pop, Slash of Guns N? Roses, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Joey Tempest of Europe, Ginger Baker of Cream, Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders, Carl Palmer of ELP and members of Iron Maiden,  Anthrax, Anvil, Marillion, ZZ Top, Uriah Heep and Mott the Hoople. The prestigious award follows a successful year for the band, including sold out concerts and their debut album going Gold in America. The band will also release a new Deluxe Edition of their eponymous debut album in the UK on Monday November 9th, available through the earMUSIC label. Comprised of drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), bassist Michael Anthony (ex-Van Halen), guitarist Joe Satriani and vocalist Sammy Hagar (ex-Van Halen), Chickenfoot have been hailed as one of the most exciting rock and roll bands in recent years and this limited edition 2-Disc Deluxe set will include a bonus DVD disc featuring over 60 minutes of exclusive live footage, behind the scenes interviews and the official promotional videos for the singles 'Oh Yeah' and 'Soap On A Rope'. Read the full official online Chickenfoot Deluxe Edition announcement here.    11/18/2009

LOST DAVID GILMOUR PRODUCED UNICORN ALBUMS SEE THE LIGHT
Pink Floyd fanatics rejoice with the first time release of two rare David Gilmour produced albums by UK country rock band Unicorn! The CDs 'Blue Pine Trees' and 'Too Many Crooks' will be released by premier reissue label Renaissance Records in conjunction with ItsAboutMusic.com on November 11th. When you think of 'country rock' band's like Firefall, Pure Praire League, Poco, Flying Burrito Bros probably come to mind first, but one band that could well be called the godfathers of the genre actually came from England. The meeting between Unicorn and Pink Floyd's renown guitarist is a curious one. Early in 1973 Unicorn played at the wedding reception for Transatlantic publicist Ricky Hopper. One of the guests was David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, who at the end of the evening got up and jammed with Unicorn on Neil Young's "Heart of Gold". Afterwards Gilmour told the band that he really liked Country Rock. A week later the Pink Floyd guitarist phoned the band to say that he had just installed a studio at his country retreat and asked if they wanted to demo some songs there. The band immediately accepted. A few days later they travelled up to Essex to Gilmour's estate. He showed them into the studio and said there was no need to bring any of their gear in from the van. Hanging on the walls was his collection of vintage Fender, Gibson, Rickenbacker and Martin guitars and underneath them Fender amplifiers and a Premier drum kit. They recorded three songs and Dave added some Fender Pedal Steel Guitar which he had just brought on his last American tour and was learning to play. They were invited back on several occasions to record. "Unicorn were playing at the wedding reception of an old friend of mine, Rick Hopper," related David Gilmour, "when I first saw them and while I was impressed by their vocal harmonies, their tightness and the fact that it was the drummer that sang the lead vocals, it was the songs themselves that I liked the best. Ken Baker's songs, while firmly seated in the American country rock genre had a very original and unusual wry English feel in the stories he told. The one that really made me notice was 'Sleep Song', about a trip to the dentist. Not a common subject for the popular song. Largely on the strength of this I invited them to my tiny home studio in Essex to record some demos. This was the start of an association that was to cover two and a half albums over the next couple of years." Things started to happen from then on when Gilmour offered to put up the money to record an album of Unicorn songs. Unicorn soon signed with Pink Floyds manager Steve O'Rourke's EMKA organization, and Ricky Hopper who had introduced them to Dave became their tour manager. Ricky would later discover Kate Bush, then called Kathy Bush. Pete and Pat from Unicorn played on her first demo recordings at Gilmour's studio. Unicorn's first album was recorded in Olympic Studios in Barnes in London. David Gilmour was producing, by his own admission, for the first time. The performances would wind up as the album 'Blue Pine Trees' and parts of the second album 'Too Many Crooks'. The album was mixed at George Martin's Air Studios in London. The engineer was John Middleton and the tape operators were the sons of Spike Milligan and Peter Sellers. Steve O'Rourke took about a week to secure a deal with Charisma Records in the UK, with Capitol Records in the US and EMI International for the rest of the world. In November 1974 Unicorn set off on their first US tour. At the time Capitol records tour manager, Alan Fry, told them that 'Blue Pine Trees' was number one in the FM action charts (a chart based on the frequency of FM airplay). The first night Unicorn performed at the Whiskey a Go Go on Sunset Strip, where they played in front of what seemed to be the entire Capitol Records staff. Unicorn was the headline band that night and was supported by, a then little known, Patti Smith. On that first tour the band supported bands like Fleetwood Mac, Manfred Mann's Earth Band, Climax Blues Band, Billy Joel, Linda Ronstadt and the Doobie Brothers. At the end of their first US tour Unicorn flew home via New York to return to play at the Marquee club in London with the Sutherland Brothers and Quiver with David Gilmour sitting in. The following year, 1975, was mainly spent recording the second album 'Too Many Crooks' (Released in America as 'Unicorn 2'). It was recorded in Air Studios at Oxford Circus with some additional tracks at Olympic at Barnes. This album included some of Unicorn's best studio performances. The most notable song was "No Way Out of Here" which was later recorded by Dave Gilmour for his first solo album. His version was the most played album track in the US for several weeks. "Listening to the best of their output from before, during and after my own involvement with the band," says Gilmour, "has reminded me of the many great songs and great moments in the studio that we shared all those years ago. It's been a long time coming, but it has been worth the wait." Unicorn - 'Blue Pine Trees', 'Too Many Crooks' (prod. by David Gilmour), will be available from Amazon, iTunes and your local retailer on November 10th. Other titles scheduled for release by Renaissance Records include Graham Parker &The Rumour 'Live In San Francisco 1979', Network - s/t and 'Nightwork', Duke Jupiter 'White Knuckle Ride', Fran King 'My Sweet Elixir', City Boy 'It's Personal', Phoenix - s/t and 'In Full View' (ex-Argent), Nick Gravenites 'Bluestar', and Roxy Music 'Manifesto Alive' (live 1979). For more information please visit It´s About Music Site.    11/18/2009

BOSCH’S EAR TUNNELING DEBUT A 13 TRACK WARP SPEED FLIGHT
Over the course of 48 hours in the studio, Bosch members Christopher Brown, Charles Greenleaf and Kevin Sims created their thirteen track, eponymously titled first release, Bosch.  Planning was utterly simple:  Sims arrived via car from Athens, Georgia with a carload of instruments, Greenleaf arrived via plane from Athens, and Brown, proprietor of northern Illinois’ Studio Roadnoise, set up a mix template to accommodate their many instruments. What you hear on this CD is pure and serious play as three creative and talented musicians abandon all orthodoxy and, like the flocking of birds, allow natural and organic organizing principles to govern the structure and evolution of their play. The schedule was intense, with four recording sessions over 48 hours.  The trio replenished themselves between recordings with food, swimming and viewing DVDs on such subjects as Harry Partch and Glen Gould and an array of Adult Swim episodes.  Each of the recording sessions seemed to improve on the previous one.  By the end, they felt confident they had a CD in the hard drive. From Andrew Rieger of Elf Power: "…somewhat reminiscent of moods evoked on Laurie Anderson's classic “Big Science” album, yet far more murky." "…creating a mood somewhat akin to that of German art rockers Faust." "This is where I close my eyes…about two seconds into the first track.  I’ve listened back to these recordings numerous times since they were imprinted, sometimes to tape, sometimes to digital ones and zeroes.  Always the same…somehow never repeated… the eyelids pulled by gravity – awaiting the various colors and changing scenes.  'Dreaming of Daybreak', 'A Long Way From Home' and 'Savor the Fall' all seem to bring to life the images of the triptych of the (possible – though not quite sure) namesake, H. Bosch.  There are sounds enveloped, crushed, shimmering, swallowed, blessed and cursed within this album.  Before I know it I am hearing the hallucinogenic fairground that is 'No Carnival Complete'.  Where did I end up?  In Turkey with a snake charmer conducting a whirling waltz spiraling out of control until it diminishes…..?  This time, yes…..next time, who knows.  It was quite a transcendental experience to create this music with these others.  You have to let go to gain control.  Destination reached by wanderlust.  I don't take the playback lightly until I’m able to let go….about two seconds in." - Charles Greenleaf. "I didn't know what to expect the first time Charles and I played music with Chris.  After a few seconds of listening, I decided to play the first thing that came into my head.  Years later, we’re still making music that outruns my imagination."  - Kevin Sims. "What a treat it’s been to play with these two.  With Random Touch I had decades of collaboration to grease the wheels of improvisation.  With Bosch we have almost a generation between us, and very different musical experiences, but right from the start we had this magic.  It's strong, it's durable, it's undeniable." - Christopher Brown. On November 15, 2009, Bosch will be available for purchase at CDBaby.    11/18/2009

LASER'S EDGE SIGNS GERMANY'S ELOY FOR 40TH ANNIVERSARY RELEASE
Taken from All About Jazz Site. Ken Golden, President of Laser's Edge Group, announces the addition of historic German Progressive Rock band Eloy to the Laser's Edge label. Laser's Edge Records will exclusively release Visionary in North America, the band's first studio album in over 10 years, on January 12, 2010. Visionary celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Eloy, Germany's most successful and prized progressive rock group. Eloy was formed in 1969 by Hanover guitarist Frank Bornemann. The band has released numerous albums but are best known for 1977's Ocean, which remains its best selling album. Although Eloy have not been active as a band since 1998, the demand for their music is still remarkable. Their work has had a significant impact on the history of rock, and many a journalist, as well as numerous fans, consider them to be one of the best progressive rock bands ever. The band's music continues to be rediscovered. It fascinates and touches many fans with its emotional, complex symphonic rock-music with atmospheric sound creations, pulsating rhythms and massive guitars, combined with lyrics which escape irrelevance, performed in a way to transport the listener to another world. The strong feedback from all parts of the world eventually reached the musicians themselves. It encouraged Bornemann, lead singer, guitarist and producer of ELOY, to bring the band together again for a 40th anniversary reunion. After a break of eleven years, they have launched the new album Visionary, which recaptures the spirit of the early years.     11/18/2009

TOXIC HEART RELEASES "RIDE YOUR LIFE" !
Slovenian Glam/Hard Rockers TOXIC HEART have just released their long-awaited debut full lenght album "Ride Your Life". "This 11-track CD will introduce us to the world, like we want to be seen", guitarist Mike says, "Toxic Heart is here to spread good times, positive energy and “Life is here to Enjoy” – way of thinking". " 'Ride Your Life' is more than just an album title, it is a motto for any generation whether young or older. What ever age you are at right now, could be 'The best age of your life'. Sometimes you just have to let go and 'Ride Your Life', and not let your life ride you. This good feeling is what the band is attempting to spread. This is our music – great, catchy, and memorable hook laden songs, coupled with a great positive message. Truly, what the world is really in need of today!" The band has recorded 2 video-clips for this new album. Earlier, the video-clip for "Ride Your Life" was released and recently, the band launched the video-clip for "Big Time". Both clips can be seen via the band's MySpace.      11/18/2009

NEAL MORSE TO RELEASE LIVE 3-CD SET "SO MANY ROADS"
29 Songs from Neal Morse, Spock’s Beard and Transatlantic Performed by Neal & His Band During Their 2008 European Tour. TN—Renowned as one of prog’s leading solo artists, Neal Morse is better known for his epic studio releases than for lengthy tours. His acclaimed solo live DVDs (Testimony Live, Sola Scripture & More) and CD set (Question Live) have captured amazing performances from his live North American and Eurpean bands, and performers from bands ranging from Dream Theater to Christina Aguilera. Never before, though, has there been a definitive live Neal Morse experience. Over almost 20 years, Neal has recorded 22 studio albums with Spock’s Beard, Transatlantic, and on his own. His career has followed an unconventional path, leading him to reject 10 years chasing a dream, and at another time, leave music altogether. His experiences and perspective have lead to some of progressive rock’s most memorable music. The challenge of bringing these songs to life requires some of prog’s best musicians—a lot of them. In Europe, Neal came to know his band by chance email from an unknown Dutch drummer: Collin Leijenaar. Collin was trying to persuade Neal that his group of friends—all tremendous Morse fans—could not only play Neal’s material, but own it. Three and half hours worth. With one week’s rehearsal. Morse was…skeptical, to say the least. The unknown performers were up against Mike Portnoy, Kerry Livgren, Roine Stolt, Steve Hacket, Jordan Rudess, Phil Keaggy, Randy George, Pete Trewavas, Kevin Gilbert, and the cast of Spock’s Beard. Neal had been down many roads he never expected, though, and something told him to take this one. The entire tour was booked before Neal even met his band. The rest is history, of course, perhaps best illustrated by Neal’s comment on the Sola Scriptura &More Live DVD; before the band launched into a complete performance of the Sola Scriptura album, Neal says, “I hope you guys like this—it’s the second time we’ve performed it together.” And indeed, Collin and company owned every minute of it. That was 2007. By the end of 2008, the now-seasoned band could tear through Morse’s material with confidence and creative improvisation. With changing material on different nights, the cumulative set is 3.5 hours long, encompassing Neal’s best songs and compositions from his 20 year career. This theme extends the recording engineering, mixing and production—resulting in studio-grade sound that whispers and thunders off the discs. At the center is Neal Morse, one of Classic Rock Magazine’s “100 Greatest Frontmen of Rock”. With soaring vocals, virtuoso instrumentals, and a unique…sense of humor, Morse demonstrates why after 20 years, he remains one of prog’s brightest stars. Experience the definitive Neal Morse concert event—29 tracks released from the studio’s confines and into the living world of live performance. Discover new songs and rediscover familiar ones, evolved and arranged in unpredictable ways. From The Light to Lifeline, experience the extraordinary music at the end of a road less travelled. Recorded from October 23-30, 2008 at: De Boerderij, Zoetermeer (NL); De Reehorst, Ede (NL); Zeche, Bochum (DE); Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg (DE), Spirit of 66, Verviers (BE). So Many Roads is released on Radiant Records. North American distribution by Metal Blade/SONY; available at all major music chains and from Radiant Records. Digital distribution by iTunes™. For more about the album and the musician please visit Neal Morse Home Page.     11/18/2009

TED NUGENT'S CRAVEMAN - RE-RELEASE OF A TRUE AMERICAN ROCK'N'ROLL MASTERPIECE
Singer and guitarist. Patriot. Political spokesman. Actor. Conservative Republican. Licensed archery instructor. Drug and alcohol abuse critic. Writer. Firearms enthusiast. Television and radio show host. Professional bow hunter. Rock Star… The many faces of Ted Nugent showcase an individual who is not afraid to speak his mind, often choosing music as the outlet for his beliefs. Widely known to the public as “The Nuge”, the artist released over 30 albums in 28 years and played over 6,000 concerts worldwide, becoming one of the most successful musicians in the history of rock’n’roll. Love him or hate him – Ted Nugent is a living rock legend, loudly and proudly living out his American Dream. This exclusive re-release of “Craveman”, the hit solo album from 2002, brings a collection of some of the most savage tunes in Ted Nugent’s entire career. The record  seems to capture the pure essence of Ted Nugent’s rich and adventurous life. It’s a heavy, uncompromising, all-American hard rockin’ album, with a modern, yet surprisingly classic sound. This re-release of the brilliant 2002 solo effort brings not only one of the finest LPs in Nugent’s vast discography, but also a true American rock’n’roll masterpiece… Metal Mind Productions will re-issue “Craveman” on 2nd November. The album will be available in a new digipak edition limited to 1000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc. Tracklist: 1. Klstrphnky, 2. Crave, 3. Rawdogs and Warhogs, 4. Damned If Ya Do, 5. At Home There, 6. Cum N Gitya Sum O' This, 7. Change My Sex, 8. I Won't Go Away, 9. Pussywhipped, 10. Goin' Down Hard, 11. Wang Dang Doodle, 12. My Baby Likes My Butter On Her Gritz, 13. Sex Pot and 14. Earthtones. Bio - Born in 1948, Nugent began his adventure with music when he was sixteen years old, taking first steps on the rock scene as a guitarist for The Amboy Dukes. Their first three albums – “The Amboy Dukes (1967), Journey to the Center of the Mind (1968) and Migration (1969) sold moderately well, slowly building up a loyal fan base. In 1974 the band signed on to Frank Zappa’s DiscReet Records and launched their fourth album – the critically acclaimed “Call of the Wild”. Another album followed in 1975, bearing the title “Tooth Fang & Claw”. Even more successful than the previous offering, the LP included the cult classic song “Great White Buffalo”, which ultimately brought The Amboy Dukes the recognition they deserved. At that point Ted Nugent was unquestionably the most popular member of the group, which resulted in several line-up rotations and changing the name to Ted Nugent & The Amboy Dukes. Nugent eventually dropped the Amboy Dukes moniker in 1975, after signing to Epic Records. With Derek St. Holmes (guitar/vocals), Rob Grange (bass) and Clifford Davies (drums) he recorded his first three solo albums, all of which became multi-platinum bestsellers: “Ted Nugent” (1975), “Free-for-All” (1976) and “Cat Scratch Fever” (1977). The LPs spawned a number of classic radio hits such as “Strangehold”, “Cat Scratch Fever”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “Hey Baby”. Nugent and his band went on an extensive tour, afterwards releasing the multi-platinum live album “Double Live Gonzo!”. In 1978 St. Holmes and Grange left Nugent’s group and were replaced by Charlie Huhn and Dave Kiswiney. With this line-up Nugent recorded three successful albums: “Weekend Warriors” (1978), “State of Shock” (1979) and “Scream Dream” (1980). During that period Ted was widely known for his strong anti-drug and alcohol approach and frequent critical declarations on that matter. This was a rather surprising attitude for a popular rock star and Nugent was being considered one of the first “good guys” of rock’n’roll, as well as an early influence on the straight edge movement, which also is critical towards alcohol and drug use. Dating from 1982 onwards, Nugent released a number of albums, mostly different from his previous hard rock style: “Nugent” (1982), “Penetrator” (1984), “Little Miss Dangerous” (1986), “If You Can’t Lick ‘Em… Lick ‘Em” (1988). Near the end of the 1980’s he decided to rest from his solo career and form a super-group with bassist Jack Blades (ex-Night Range), guitarist Tommy Sha (ex-Styx) and drummer Michael Cartellon, called Damn Yankees. The band’s debut self-titled album was released in 1990 and became an international hit, selling over 5 million copies (mostly thanks to the power-ballad “High Enough”). Damn Yankees recorded one more album in 1992 – “Don’t Tread” – until finally splitting up. Nugent returned to writing solo material and in 1995 released one of his most acclaimed works – “Spirit of The Wild”. The fans had to wait seven whole years for his next album. But it was all worth it – “Craveman”, released on September 22nd, 2002, proved to be the heaviest piece of rock The Nuge has ever recorded! While the first track of the record – “Klstrphnky” – delivers a sound more suitable for Kid Rock or some other alternative metal act, the rest of the material is a clear nod to the artist’s hard rock past. “Rawdogs & Warhogs” (a praise anthem for the American way of life) and “Going Down Hard” resemble the classic “early Meat Loaf” rock approach, while “At Home There” and “I Won’t Go Away” both take a lot from such classic Nugent songs as “Strangehold” or “Just What The Doctor Ordered”. Another reference to the older albums comes with “Wang Dang Doodle”, a loose interpretation of “Wang Dang Sweet Poontang” from Ted’s hit 1977 LP “Cat Scratch Fever”. “Craveman” featured a lot of elements from the older days, but at the same time introduced a heavy, modern guitar sound (by some compared to Megadeth, Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society or Metallica!) and songwriting fit for the new millennium. It also included a brief reunion with Nugent’s former bandmates Tommy Shaw and Jack Blades in “Damned If Ya Do!”. One of the significant features of this album is a strong sexual overtone, with song names such as: “Sexpot”, “My Baby Likes Butter On Her Gritz” and “Cum N Gitya Some Of This”. “Craveman” ends with the instrumental track “Earthtones”, once again reaching back to ideas from the glorious 1970’s. Apart from writing music, Ted Nugent has been very active in all sorts of activities throughout his career. After his anti-drug and alcohol involvement in the 1990’s he became a national spokesman for the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. Due to his conservative political views he was often a guest on such programs as “Politically Incorrect”, “The Howard Stern Show” and “Larry King Live”. In the late 1990’s Nugent began his writing career, contributing to various magazines. He is the author of such successful books as “Gods, Guns and Rock ’n’ Roll” (2001; a highly acclaimed New York Times Bestseller), “Kill It and Grill It” (2002; co-authored by Nugent’s wife, Shemane), “BloodTrails II: The Truth About Bowhunting” (2004) and “Ted, White, and Blue: The Nugent Manifesto” (2008). In 1996 he had his own radio audition at WWBR-FM in Detroit, called “The Ted Nugent Morning show” (with co-host Steve Black). He also did some acting, appearing in such productions as the hit television show “Miami Vice” (1986), a Canadian film “Heavy Metal Summer” (1990), an episode of the comedy series “That 70’s Show” (2001), the music video for Nickelback’s song “Rockstar” (2007) and the film “Beer For My Horses” (2008). He was the host of the reality television programs “Surviving Nugent” (2003/2004) and “Wanted: Ted Or Alive” (2005), and appeared as a guest on “Forever Wild” (2004), “SuperGroup” (2006) and “Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations”. Nugent is well known for his support of hunting and gun-ownership rights and is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the National Rifle Association (NRA). He had created a summer non-profit program called Ted Nugent’s Kamp For Kids, where he teaches the basics of survival, archery and hunting, at the same time presenting a strong anti-drug message. Over the years Nugent has become a spokesman for such organizations as the National Field Archery Association, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. As a strong supporter of the military, Nugent performed for the US troops in Iraq in 2004. For more about visit Metal Mind Productions Site.     11/18/2009

NEW YORK PROG ENSEMBLE IZZ SET TO RELEASE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF EPIC SERIES
The progressive community is buzzing with anticipation of the upcoming release by New York prog ensemble IZZ. In the past decade the group has released several highly acclaimed albums and have acumulated a large dedicated following in the process. The band's newest CD The Darkened Room is scheduled for release on November 17th and is part of an ongoing series. "This is sort of a 'Part One' of a two-part album series," says John Galgano, who plays bass with the band. "We have already started recording on the next part. There is a concept but we'd prefer to let people take from it what they get out of it, without the influence of our explanation." "There are many new bands out there in the prog rock scene who try to recreate the spirit of the good old Seventies. I for one always thought that IZZ isn’t simply one of them. Yes, they may have lent some aspects of that retro sound but IZZ is a truly special case here. The term 'recreating' doesn't really cover their potential of the band, so 'reinventing' could be a better one instead.". Although IZZ has its own unique sound there are several influences: "Each person in the band brings a different aspect of music with them, but there is certainly a shared passion for The Beatles, Genesis and Yes," says Brian Coralian, who with fellow drummer Greg DiMiceli makes up IZZ's potent double-drumming duo. "But as individuals, our musical influences and experiences run the 'genre' gamut from jazz to musical theater to classical to latin to celtic." Some individual artists/bands who influence the members of IZZ are Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, King Crimson, Jonatha Brooke, St. Vincent, ABBA, Ben Folds, Marillion and Dave Brubeck just to name a few. IZZ’s new studio album, The Darkened Room, offers the listener music which is at once both adventurous yet still uniquely IZZ. "Each band member gives amazing performances on this new record," says guitarist Paul Bremner, "but each of us really keeps the song and melody at the forefront of our minds and I think that is evident throughout the entire album." The current line-up for The Darkened Room is: Tom Galgano: keyboards, vocals, Greg DiMiceli: drums and percussion, Brian Coralian: electronic and acoustic drums and percussion, Paul Bremner: electric and acoustic guitar, John Galgano: bass guitar, acoustic/electric guitar, vocals and Anmarie Byrnes: vocals. "I think with IZZ, the message is first and always about the music and more specifically, the melody," says Tom Galgano, keyboardist, vocalist and the band's producer and engineer. "The band members share a common passion for developing melody and feel that much of the great music of the past has a common thread - a memorable melody. So, one of our goals is always about attempting our best to bring forth memorable, catchy, interesting and creative music."  "Without question one of the brightest lights on the American symphonic prog scene, IZZ melds classic and modern prog influences, strong melodies, and stirring guitar and synthesizer solos into a familar yet refreshing musical stew. The new IZZ album album My River Flows, their third full-length recording, shows the band's full musical palette: from accessible yet complex songs mixing their Yes, Beatles, and Gentle Giant affinities with a Radiohead spice to a dynamic, spiritually uplifting multi-part symphonic suite." - NEARfest website. Even before the release of IZZ's new opus, the band is back in the studio recording the second part. "What is probably more a focus at this point is completing the recording of Part 2 of this album series," John explains. "We've already started the recording process and hope to have a follow up to The Darkened Room soon. However, since all the members of IZZ consider the band to be a band that you need to experience live, we will definitely sprinkle in a good amount of live performances to promote and play out material for The Darkened Room." In other news, IZZ was recently featured in the 2008 3RP Festival DVD along with the Flower Kings, Neal Morse, Spock's Beard, California Guitar Trio and others. The DVD is available to purchase on the 3RP official website www.3rprogfest.com. In addition, IZZ is starting work on their own DVD that would include the band's electrifying performance at NEARFest 2007. IZZ's The Darkened Room will be available from Amazon, CDBaby, iTunes and your favorite online retailer. Vist the official IZZ website for the most updated information.     11/18/2009

GUITARIST DAVID MARK PEARCE DEBUTS NEW SINGLE
The debut single "Tell Me Why" from David Mark Pearce’s forthcoming album, "Strangeang3ls," will be available November 1, 2009 at David Mark Pearce site. Pearce will be discussing the single as well as his current projects on Paul Baker’s ‘Soundscapes,’ ARfm (http://www.arfm.co.uk) November 1. The show airs from 3 – 6 UK time. "Tell Me Why" was written and produced by Pearce, as well as features his signature guitar playing. Also featured on the single are vocals by John Payne (of Asia featuring JP) keyboardist Lisa LaRue, bassist Chris Brown (of Ghost Circus and Roswell Six) and drummer Damian Rodd. David Mark Pearce is the guitarist for the Oliver Wakeman Band, as well as co-producer and participant of the Lisa LaRue Project 2K9. He has previously released a solo EP titled "Shelter Me From the Rain," and is currently working on his long-awaited debut solo CD, "Strangeang3ls" which is targeted for a Spring 2010 release. Pearce was voted eighth Best Guitarist by Classic Rock Society Magazine, 2008. Tell Me Why - David Mark Pearce & Strangeang3ls (featuring Lisa LaRue and John Payne) "The latest release from David Mark Pearce, ‘Tell Me Why’ sees him join forces with John Payne (GPS, Asia) on vocals, Lisa LaRue on keys, Chris Brown on bass & Damian Rodd on drums. The lead in to the song is quite distinctive and gentle, leading straight into the full on ‘classic rock’ style of the song. John Payne’s distinctive vocals sit very nicely over the mid-paced song. There are subtle moments that move this song onwards and upwards to a higher plane than the normal ‘classic rock’ song. It isn’t over complicated, David sticking to his strengths, controlled but powerful guitar, solid vocals and a vocal hook/chorus line that will have to singing along straight away. As I said not over complicated but not simple either, the song is complex enough to be captivating a very solid and worthy effort as a follow up to the very promising ‘Shelter Me From The Rain EP’. I’ve heard two versions of the song, the radio and full edit, my personal preference is for the full version where the song grows naturally into a six minute rock classic, the shorter ‘radio’ version doesn’t really give the song enough room to show itself off to the full potential. So for me, longer is better! More please David! "    11/18/2009

TILT RELEASE DIGITAL SINGLE, 'LONG GONE', 12.10.09
The band 'Tilt', which consists of musicians that have collaborated with artists as diverse as KT Tunstall, Fish and Porcupine Tree release 'Long Gone' from their acclaimed debut EP, 'Million Dollar Wound' as a 2-track digital single on October 12th 2009. Featuring vocals from guest singer Kaela Rowan, best known for her work with esteemed Scottish outfit 'Mouth Music', the song shows a quieter, melancholic side to 'Tilt' and has already received glowing reviews. 'Long Gone (edit)' is available exclusively on 12.10.09 as a 'pay-what-you-want' download from the bands BandCamp site.   11/18/2009

SAD NEWS FOR FMPM FANS: FMPM IS NO MORE...
For four years now, they have worked tirelessly to bring about a high quality and unique experience uniting live progressive music with fans in Montreal. They are proud to say that, with lots of hard work and a little luck, they managed to accomplish this each year without any major setbacks, watching attendance rise from just over 200 in 2006 to a sold out event this year. As all festival organizers know, the job is a year long one, unrelenting and fraught with things that could go disastrously wrong. Fortunately for us nothing did, although they dodged a few bullets with the passing of Hatfield and the North’s drummer Pip Pyle a few weeks before the first edition, while Vittorio Nocenzi of Banco suffered heart problems just months before performing in 2008. Each FMPM was a blast, and every note heard from the stage resonated into unforgettable experiences. Our goals were not related to size or profit, but were instead to create a “happening” with some of our favorite international bands, while showcasing Quebec’s fine progressive artists. FMPM was always a “one year at a time” affair which depended greatly on the availability of our time and the feasibility of inviting some of our favorite bands to Montreal. And they were blessed to be able to do this four times. So, it is with many mixed emotions that they are deciding not to proceed with another FMPM. The decision not to continue is not in any way based on finances, as the festival covered all of its expenses this year following a few years of small and manageable deficits. Nor is the decision based on any conflicts, as all FMPM team members remain the best of friends and continue to work together in various capacities. This decision is solely about the time and effort that both of us, being the main organizers, need to devote year-round to making the festival the best it can be. They have established high personal standards for the line-up and production quality, and they believe, having read all the positive comments year after year, that they could never accept offering a festival with the FMPM name that isn’t up to these standards. But with full time jobs and businesses to run, family obligations and many other commitments and activities, it would be difficult for us to repeat what we have achieved to date. So, they have chosen instead to end on a high note, although they do plan to occasionally produce some one-off concerts under the FMPM banner, and to continue promoting Quebec artists. As most of you are aware, they are also the two principals of ProgresSon Music, parent company of the ProgQuebec label, and our priority will continue to be helping Quebec artists reissue their music and perform on stage when possible. They are proud to say that in the five years since the label’s founding, they have released 36 titles and returned around $75,000 in royalties to Quebec musicians. So on this positive note, they wish to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to all those who helped out with FMPM and everyone who attended the festival during the past four years, for sharing such amazing music and experiences with us.  11/18/2009

MY RUIN'S ALBUMS TO BE RE-RELEASED SOON
In the mid 1990’s America was hit by the first wave of the nu-metal revolution, with bands such as Korn and Deftones forcing their way into the mainstream. The second wave followed soon after, spawning several more or less successful groups wanting to forever change the face of heavy music. While some succeeded, most were eventually sentenced to oblivion. From all those bands who prevailed, My Ruin led by charismatic Tairrie B., is probably the most uncompromising one. Opposite to weak songwriting, unimaginative riffs and jolly sing-a-long choruses, this group delivered genuine heaviness and brutality, backed by a powerful message which would generate real untamed emotions. These exclusive re-releases of My Ruin’s first two albums will take you on a an unforgettable journey through the dark and twisted corners of the human soul… “Speak and Destroy” - The LP was released in 1999, immediately gaining world-wide attention, with most success noted in the United Kingdom. Showcasing a truly significant style, “Speak and Destroy” delivered a powerful combination of modern heavy metal with a variety of vocals, from spoken word and rapping to violent, merciless screaming. The album’s industrial edge helped the overall sound balance between hardcore riffing and psychedelic melodies. But the thing that made “Speak and Destroy” such a remarkable release was the lyrical content. Tairrie focused on the darkest and most painful aspects of her life, producing some of the most personal and thought-provoking lyrics in the history of heavy music. “Horrible Pain (Within My Heart)” reveals the duality of human nature, describing a demonic figure that’s both frightening and fascinating. “Absolution” is a testimony of pain and suffering caused by the loved one, ending with a violent promise of revenge. “Cosmetic” criticizes the sacrifice of inner beauty in the name of shallow appearance. “Blasphemous Girl” is a brutally honest self-analysis accompanied by chugging guitar sounds comparable to early Soungarden or Hole. “Terror”, a frightening monologue, reveals Tairrie’s strength as a woman and in the following lines gives away the source of the group’s name: “Because nobody is going to ruin me, if I have to I will ruin myself.. And it will be My Ruin”. The lyrics incorporate various references to the Bible (especially to the Book of Revelations), questioning the importance of religion and existence of God, but also focusing on more earthly matters, such as sex or sexism vs. feminism. One of the most surprising tracks on the album is the cover version of Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love” – for many fans superior not only to the original, but also to Marilyn Manson’s interpretation. “A Pray Under Pressure Of Violent Anguish” - Released on September 18th, 2000, the album was best described by Tairrie herself during an interview for Barcode webzine in 2001: “With A Prayer Under Pressure we give you the antithesis to the rap-rock Limp Bizkit generation of desensitized, copycat, transparent bands being shoved down America's throat”. Co-produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Danzig), the LP included fourteen tracks of material which out-weighed My Ruin’s debut offering in every way. The band introduced an immensely heavier sound, lowering the guitar tone and decreasing the amount of spoken/recited vocals in favor of full-on, gut-wrenching screaming. At the same time the music gained a lot of diversity, thanks to Mick’s stoner-influenced style of playing. Lyrically, Tairrie ventured further into the dark side, broadening her horizons with careful studies of social issues. “Sanctuary” stands out as a reality check for “true” believers, exposing the frailty of their faith. “Letter To The Editor” deals with dishonesty among members of the music press. “Beauty Fiend” and “Stick It To Me” both criticize the shallow Hollywood style of life, which ultimately leads to self-destruction. The album also features a guest performance by Jessicka of Jack Off Jill on “Miss Anne Thrope”, as well as two brilliant cover versions of “Do You Love Me” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, and “My War” by Black Flag. Metal Mind Productions will re-release both albums on 2nd November in a new digipak edition, each limited to 1000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc. For more about please visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page,  11/18/2009

ZAPPA VOCAL LEGEND NAPOLEON MURPHY BROCK TO RELEASE VINTAGE LIVE RECORDINGS
Zappa vocal legend and 2008 Grammy Award recipient Napoleon Murphy Brock plans to release a CD of vintage live recordings in December 2009 entitled 'This is What Frank Zappa Heard - Just in Case You Were Wondering - Live at the Red Noodle in Waikiki, Hawaii'. Fans worldwide have heard Napoleon's extraordinairy vocals, sax and flute on such beloved Zappa albums as 'Roxy & Elsewhere', 'One Size Fits All', 'Bongo Fury' and 'Thing Fish', not to mention his work with keyboardist, and fellow Zappa alumni George Duke, as well as the recent incarnation of the Grande Mothers Re-invented. On August 8th, 1973, Frank Zappa was alerted by his road manager, Marty Perellis, that an incredible band with an extraordinary lead singer was performing downtown to a standing room only audience … and that it might be wise that he come and see this for himself. When Zappa went to the club and watched the show, he saw a young talent sing, dance, play sax, flute and key boards, in a manner that clearly made it appear that he was having more fun than even the other patrons in the club. After two hours of observing and listening to this young man and his very disciplined band of musicians, he introduced himself as Frank Zappa, and the young man introduced himself as Napoleon Murphy Brock. The next words out of Zappa’s mouth were, "You are my new lead vocalist." "As I understand it, he had just finished touring Australia, and they were getting ready to go to Europe a week or two after that," recalls Napoleon to Andrew Greenaway. "And he was taking a little break. He stopped off in Hawaii for a week or so. And his road manager, Marty Perellis, set Frank up in a hotel and then went out walking around in Hawaii probably to see if he could get lucky or something! If you want a good time, what better place to do it than in Hawaii? Hawaii is literally paradise. And he came to a show of mine outside a nightclub at the Coral Reef hotel and got curious as to why there was a line of people waiting to get into a place on a Wednesday night. He didn't recognize the name of the band, so he thought he'd get in line and come in and see why everybody was queuing up. The reason that people would line up in front of the 'Red Noodle' every night is because the club owners always hired us, and brought us to play and perform for the local people of Hawaii. The locals would get off of work between 10 pm and 11 pm. They had until 12 midnight to get in the club, after which time the tourists would be let in until the club capacity was met. We played 7 nights a week, from 10 pm until 4 am". The band's name was "Communication Plus - music that 'communicates' to the listener and dancer, 'plus' music you can feel," explained Napoleon. "Anyway, Marty came into the club and saw us playing didn't recognise us, because no one knew about us except the club owners that hired us and the people who came to see us. He ran back to the hotel, woke Frank up and said, 'Hey, get your clothes on, I just found your new lead vocalist'. Frank got up, came by to the hotel, stood in line like anybody else and once he got in he sat at the back of the room there weren't any seats. We were quite popular there, because we were a band from the mainland. In Hawaii, a band from the mainland if you play halfway decent music you're like a star, you have star status over there. And also the music in Hawaii is like a month behind". Napoleon joined Zappa's group in October 1973 and remained until 1976 recording some of Zappa's most notable albums. This historic performance was taped on TEAC 4 Track Reel to Reel on August 8th, 1973 and has been digitally enhanced, and the final mix done in stereo surround sound in Hamburg, Germany. It will put you at the next table to where Frank was sitting, and you will experience what Frank Zappa experienced and what later was described as "the audition of a lifetime". Some of the songs covered include Nilsson's "Coconut", Carol King's "So Far Away", James Brown's "Make It Funky" and Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage" to name a few. 'This is What Frank Zappa Heard - Just in Case You Were Wondering - Live at the Red Noodle in Waikiki, Hawaii' is currently available for pre-order from Napoleon's official website. He will also autograph copies on request. In other news, Napoleon will be performing in concert with keyboard legend and fellow Zappa alumni George Duke on October 31, 2009 at the Amsterdam Jazz Festival in the Netherlands. The ensemble will be backed by the Metropole Orchestra. All the music performed at the concert with the Metropole Orch will be original compositions written by George Duke and Napoleon Murphy Brock only. For more information on Napoleon Murphy Brock visit his offical website.   11/18/2009

METAL MIND PRODUCTION AND A SELECTED ALBUMS FROM IAN GILLAN'S DISCOGRAPHY
The exclusive re-releases of the selected albums from Ian Gillan's discography out in November. Could there possibly be a single rock fan on this planet unfamiliar with the name Ian Gillan? Very unlikely. Best known as the lead singer of the legendary group Deep Purple, Gillan took part in over forty musical projects, from guest appearances to solo albums, each time proving his extraordinary talent. Metal Mind Productions presents the exclusive re-releases of the selected albums from Ian Gillan’s discography: “Naked Thunder”, “Toolbox”, “Cherkazoo & Other Stories”, “Clear Air Turbulance” (Ian Gillan Band), “Scarabus” (Ian Gillan Band) and “Accidentally on Purpose” (Gillan/Glover). For more about all releases please visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page.   11/18/2009

DIO - RE-RELEASE OF THE LIVE ALBUM "EVIL OR DIVINE - LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY"
Ronnie James Dio is without question one of the most famous and respected singers in the entire history of heavy metal. Known from his solo career and such legendary bands as Rainbow and Black Sabbath, Dio is often recognized for his extremely powerful voice, which throughout the years became his trademark. In late 1982 Ronnie James Dio and fellow former Black Sabbath member, drummer Vinny Appice, formed a band that was not meant to be a solo project but a band as a whole. Ronnie recruited an old bassist that had served his time with him in the band Rainbow, Jimmy Bain. Along with a hot new guitarist out of Ireland, Vivian Campbell, this band was to become DIO! This exclusive re-release of “Evil or Divine – Live in New York City” brings a truly unique collection of some of the greatest and most memorable songs in Dio’s catalogue, brilliantly performed at the Roseland ballroom in New York City in 2002. The set list includes songs that span the length of Dio's distinguished career. Though favoring his early solo works, there is a bit of Rainbow, as well as Black Sabbath. Including such remarkable songs as “Long Live Rock and Roll”, “Heaven and Hell”, “Stand Up and Shout”, “Don't Talk to Strangers” and “Holy Diver”, this album is a must-have for all true fans of heavy metal. The new digipak edition is limited to 1000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process, released on a golden disc. Metal Mind Productions set the release date for 2nd November. For more about all releases please visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page.   11/18/2009

LION'S SHARE SIGN RUSSIAN LICENSING DEAL WITH SOYUZ MUSIC
Swedish melodic heavy metal masters LION'S SHARE have inked a Russian licensing deal with SOYUZ MUSIC for the release of their critically acclaimed "Dark Hours" album. The follow-up to 2007's "Emotional Coma" was mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren (OPETH, SYMPHONY X, PARADISE LOST, AMON AMARTH) and features guest appearances by SYMPHONY X guitarist Mike Romeo (guest solo on "Behind The Curtain"), and drummers Conny Pettersson (from Earache Records death metal act ANATA) and Richard Evensand (CHIMAIRA, SOILWORK). A free download of the first single "Judas Must Die" is available at Blistering Records. and the video for the same song at Youtube. "Dark Hours" is out on Blistering Records in Europe and North America and on King Records in Japan.    11/18/2009

KANSAS - THERE'S KNOW PLACE LIKE HOME
New Kansas DVD produced by Real 2 Reel Studios, using a SoundField Mark V mic and SP451 5.1 processor. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA: With a career span of almost 30 years and 19 albums, Kansas is always looking for new ways to seize the spirit of their music and performances. Having recorded eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums, and one platinum live album and a million-selling gold single, "Dust in the Wind", the band has constantly demanded the best in quality of the latest recording devices. Kansas recently took a venture into a new world of DVD 5.1 surround audio and film production with the help of a Georgia favorite for film and audio production, Real 2 Reel Studios. Recording a live performance in Atlanta for a new Kansas live DVD entitled "Device Voice Drum", Real 2 Reel incorporated the new Soundfield Mark V/SP451 5.1 surround microphone package to capture live realism and spaciousness from the concert performance. The live concert, held at the Earthlink Live venue in Atlanta, Georgia on June 15th, was a DVD filming exclusive performed for hard-core Kansas fans only. In fact, the only place to buy tickets to the event was on the band's website. Real 2 Reel's project director Michie Turpin, and director of photography Steve Shepard used six film cameras, four video cameras, and a Sony 3348 digital tape machine recording on all 48 tracks to capture the live performance. Six of the 48 digital audio tracks were dedicated to the SP451's 5.1 outputs for the entire concert for ambience and 5.1 surround. The elaborate live production included a string quartet for "Dust in the Wind" and a seventy-four person choir for the song "Preacher", and included performances of all the Kansas greats. The concert closed with "Carry on Wayward Son". Even with intelligent mic placement, recording multi-channel 5.1 surround audio for such a production could bring about frequency cancellation problems that could ruin an entire mix. As co-owner and engineer Steve Rawls explains, "One of our concerns was how we were going to get the live feel and sound of the concert for the 5.1 mix without frequency cancellation or physical mic placement problems. Those concerns turned out to not even be an issue once we introduced the Mark V/SP451 system. It captured all of the wonderful ambience of the concert flawlessly and beautifully from one microphone." The Soundfield Mark V/SP451 surround microphone package utilizes the Mark V's special capsule array and a separate SP451 preamp/processor control unit to provide multi-channel audio from a single point source. The SP451 also offers enhanced control over right, left and right/left surround positions by plus or minus forty-five degrees from "center", which gives engineers a unique approach to providing audio to the top-notch 5.1 outputs in truly creative ways. "This microphone system does everything it is advertised to do," states Rawls. "You can literally change the position of the microphone in the room without ever physically touching the microphone. It's phenomenal, and the sound of the Mark V matched with the SP451's preamps is simply incredible." The Mark V microphone was suspended about ten feet down from the grid with the lighting trusses, about half way between the band's front line and the back wall of the venue. The control unit was located in the production booth, above and behind the crowd. Microphones used on the choir were AKG414s, a Neumann TLM 193, and Neumann TLM 103s. The preamps used were 32 channels of Millennia Media for vocals and keyboards and 16 channels of API microphone preamps for drums and violins. Film cameras were all Aton XTR super 16mm format production packages with the exception of one Arri SR2 film camera as a handheld. The live DVD, "Device Voice Drum", which is planned to be released on October 8th, is now in the post-production phase with Real 2 Reel. The engineers and band are thrilled with what the Mark V/SP451 system has done for the production. Rawls states, "When the band came in to listen to the song our engineer James Cobb just eased up on the faders for the Mark V/SP451 surround system and literally three of the five of the band members said 'What did you just do? That sounds great.' All he had done was bring up the Soundfield surround 'mic' for ambience to give the mix that 'concert feel'. Therefore, we will be using the Mark V and SP451 largely in the surround mix. The ambience and the realism it added to the tracks is spectacular and wonderful," explains Rawls. In addition to the live DVD, an audio companion double-disk CD set is planned for release. The DVD will contain approximately an hour and forty minutes of concert footage with forty minutes of additional content. Additional content will contain behind the scenes footage, interviews with the band members, and a Kansas discography. For more about please visit Kansas Home Page.    11/18/2009

MARILLION AND THE ALBUM "LESS IS MORE" WILL BE RELEASED IN THE UK ON MONDAY 5TH OCTOBER.
EarMUSIC, the international pop-rock label of European entertainment group Edel, is proud to announce the release of the new studio album by worldwide acclaimed UK band Marillion. The album "Less Is More" will be released in the UK on Monday 5th October. Tracklisting: 01. Go, 02. Interior Lulu, 03. Out Of This World, 04. Wrapped Up In Time, 05. The Space, 06. Hard As Love, 07. Quartz, 08. If My Heart Were A Ball, 09. It's Not Your Fault, 10. The Memory Of Water and 11. This Is The 21st Century (plus additional hidden track). Hailed as one of the English music scene's best kept secrets; Marillion were chart aficionados during the eighties have since been one of the few names in pop to get more and more creative and fascinating album after album. The band are constantly reinventing themselves while keeping the unique sound that made them loved by millions of fans all over the world. The new studio album "Less Is More", released in cooperation with the band's own label Intact, sees the band performing hits from their back catalogue in an acoustic style. It's a chance for Marillion to shine a new light into their songs, pushing them into unexpected new musical territory that showcases the essence of their songs in an alternative, intimate and exciting format. Less is more... Marillion have created an album of pop avant-garde experiment, depriving the songs of their original dress and reconstructing them with a new, minimal and intimate approach. Says Steve Hogarth - "This album has exceeded our own expectations in every way - musically, spiritually and sonically so it's perfect that fate has decreed that we work with earMUSIC/Edel - a label we respect - and Max Vaccaro, someone who demonstrably understands us and is driven by a genuine enthusiasm for our music." In addition to the highly anticipated release of "Less Is More", the band will play a series of low-key acoustic concerts in the UK and Ireland. When Fish, Marillion's original lead singer, left the band in 1988 after four albums he was replaced by the charismatic Steve Hogarth. A former member of The Europeans and some-time collaborator with 'The The' and Julian Cope, Hogarth brought a new heart and energy to the band. Predictions of doom were swiftly dispelled, as across a further NINE albums, Hogarth - along with existing members Steve Rothery (guitar), Mark Kelly (keyboards), Pete Trewavas (bass), and Ian Mosley (drums) - reinvigorated and constantly redefined Marillion's sound. They forged into new musical territories with a succession of inventive, emotional albums, displaying little regard to the vagaries of The Musical Fashion Police, or the bandwagoneering of radio playlists. After the release of 1999's 'marillion.com' the band banished the spectre of record company pressure once and for all by launching their own record label (the aptly-named Intact imprint) and freeing themselves up to produce some of the finest music of their career. Thanks to their pioneering embrace of the Internet, Marillion have developed a unique and intimate relationship with their fans. From sponsoring entire tours of the USA to funding the recording of recent albums, Marillion's global fan-base is unique in its affection and dedication. As a result, such passionate, wholesale support has allowed Marillion to step outside of the conventional music industry and find their own path. In 2001 'Anoraknophobia' saw Marillion take the groundbreaking step of asking fans to pre-order an album 12 months before release. An amazing 12,000 people signed up, helping to finance the recording. The band once again took pre-orders for the 2004 masterpiece 'Marbles,' but this time the money was channelled into a campaign fund to promote its launch. When singles 'Don't Hurt Yourself' and 'You're Gone' breached the UK top 20 - the latter making it all the way to number 7 - jaws were dropped right across the music world - Not bad going for a band without major label backing. It was merely the latest twist in a 23-year-long history of a group who have held on to the conviction that what they're doing MEANS something real. In the face of ignorance and apathy, Marillion continue to defy preconceptions and labelling. The band has evolved into a vibrant, musical force. To those who already love Marillion, they're something special. To everyone else they're a love affair waiting to happen. Their 2007 album 'Somewhere Else' reached number 24 in the UK album chart with their most recent single "Thankyou Whoever You Are" hitting the UK singles chart at number 15. Their last studio album 'Happiness Is The Road' is a 110 minute 2CD set, with the first album entitled 'Essence' - an adventurous musical trip exploring life's biggest question "What's it all about?" Alongside their signature rock orchestration, Happiness Is The Road also references elements of pop, dub and soul and draws influence from artist's as diverse as The Beach Boys and Marvin Gaye to Interpol, The Doors, Traffic, Pink Floyd and David Bowie. For more about please visit Marillion Official Website.    10/01/2009

THE FLAMING LIPS NEW STUDIO ALBUM
Pre-order your copy of the brand new Flaming Lips studio album. In stores October 13th! A Deluxe LIMITED EDITION 2CD+DVD set bundled with an exclusive lithograph is available only in the official Flaming Lips store. Embryonic Deluxe Limited Edition 2CD+DVD. Custom designed by The Flaming Lips and George Salisbury, this Deluxe Edition includes: 2 CD with 18 full tracks - over 70 minutes of music. Bonus audio DVD of the album in it's full dynamic range (96k 24 bit audio that has 256 times more resolution than a standard CD) - experience exactly what the band and producer hear in the studio! Digipack comes inside of a custom "fur" box with booklet of full color art, lyrics and band photos Exclusive lithograph featuring the Embryonic cover artwork - a limited number will be AUTOGRAPHED! Also, ten fans that pre-order Embryonic from the Flaming Lips store will get a pair of tickets to the Flaming Lips New Year's Eve concert in Oklahoma City! For more about please visit The Flaming Lips Home Page.    10/01/2009

WITHIN TEMPTATION WILL BE RELEASING A NEW ACOUSTIC LIVE ALBUM
As you already know, they will be releasing a new acoustic live CD on November 2nd. 'An Acoustic Night At The Theatre' will feature many of their biggest hits, played live and acoustic during their seated tour last year. This album will also have a new song on it, entitled 'Utopia'. This song is a duet between Sharon and a new English singer who goes by the name of Chris Jones. They've just put the video for this song online on their Youtube-channel! In the coming weeks, they'll be posting regional updates on the album on their websites. As a start, they'd like to mention their UK streetteam. Join them and they will let we know when to start calling radio stations, etc in the UK. If you want to hear 'Utopia' on the radio in Finland, make sure to send e-mails to: www.ylex.fi, www.nrj.fi, www.voice.fi, www.radionova.fi, www.metrofm.fi and www.radioaalto.fi. The full tracklisting of 'An Acoustic Night at the Theatre' is as follows: 1. Towards The End, 2. Stand My Ground, 3. Caged, 4. All I Need, 5. Frozen, 6. Somewhere (feat. Anneke van Giersbergen), 7. The Cross, 8. Pale, 9. What Have You Done (feat. Keith Caputo), 10. Memories, 11. Forgiven and 12. Utopia (feat. Chris Jones). Of course you can now order this album and the single (only available in stores in the Benelux!) through their webshop. Meanwhile, the presale for the rerun of their seated shows in the Benelux is going very fast. A few of them are sold already, 8 months in advance! They look forward to those shows as they will be the first ones they'll do after having spent so much time in the studio. They hope to see you there, check their website for all the tourdates. For more about please visit Within Temptation Home Page.   10/01/2009

HOSTSONATEN NEW PROJECT TITLED "AUTUMNSYMPHONY" (PART II OF 'SEASONCYCLE SUITE')
Hostsonaten is one of the many Fabio Zuffanti projects. Fabio is one of the most cretive and active italian musician of the last 15 years, band leader in groups such as Finisterre, Maschera Di Cera, Quadraphonic, laZona, Aries and with a solo career under his name. Zuffanti give life to Hostsonaten in 1996 becoming the leader and only composer with the aid of many musicians friends. Hostsonaten's music is inspired manly by nordic prog rock style with jazzy, folk, ethnic, and classical flavours. After the first two albums in 1996 and 1998 Fabio decided to create a large project in four albums: a 'musical painting' in four movements dedicated to the four seasons. The title of the whole opera is 'Sesasoncycle Suite' and, at this moment, part IV (Springsong, 2002. Reprinted in a new version in 2009) and part III (Winterthrough, 2008), dedicated to spring and winter, has been published. Hostsonaten's albums has reach a great critical and selling success in the whole world. After the historical Italian bands of the '70s Zuffanti is the most important and well-know italian prog artist of the new italian progressive scene. Autumnsymphony continue his trip through the seasons representing the 2nd part of the 'Sesasoncycle Suite'. In that album the malinchonic feeling, that will reach his top on the winter chapter, give life to many moments of pure musical poetry. The music seems often like a lost soundtrack of some  Andreij Tarkowskij' movie, a very important director and one of the greatest inspiration for Fabio's music and life. The jazzy inflences (mainly english jazz, the one of groups such as Nucleus), more evident in this album, are unite with a chamber music mood. The acoustic instruments  (violas, violins, cello, trumpet, double bass, etc...) is often suppotend by a rock rhytm section with great mellotron and moog sounds. The voice, for the first time in the 'Sesasoncycle Suite', fly high and bring the autumnal vortex to the winter spirals, fall deep in the abyss and left the listener alone with his emotions. Autumnsymphony comes out for AMS/VM2000 label, with BTF distribution and will be available by september 21, 2009 in a de-luxe digipack vinly replica packaging. This is the tracklist: 01. Open windows to autumn, 02. Leaves in the well (Including Riverbank prelude), 03. Out of water, 04. Nightswan i, 05. Nightswan ii, 06. As the night gives birth to the morning, 07. Trees in November, 08. Elegy and 09. Autumn's last breath / The gates of winter. The musicians involved in the project are: bass guitar, bass pedals, acoustic & electric guitar, fender rhodes, mellotron, minimoog: Fabio Zuffanti drums: Federico Foglia double bass: Pietro Martinelli stick: Carlo Barreca cello: Giacomo Villa viola, violin: Osvaldo Loi flute, piccolo: Marco Moro oboe: Andrea Benassi trumpet: Michele Bernabei sax, bagpipe: Edmondo Romano grand piano, koto, special effects: Robbo Vigo classical & lead electric guitars: Matteo Nahum voice: Simona Angioloni. The album is available on beautiful vinly replica gatefold cover + 12 pages booklet on AMS/VM2000 label BTF. For more about please visit Fabio Zuffanti projects Home Page.   10/01/2009

KINGCROW AND “PHLEGETHON” COVER ARTWORK REVEALED
The cover artwork for Kingcrow's new album, "PHLEGETHON", can be viewed at the following link. Also available on the same page is a “Speed Painting” videoclip, so you can view the “making” of the artwork by Devilnax while listening to the new track “Evasion”. You can also listen to an excerpt of another song titled “Fading Out PT. III” at the official MySpace page of the band.   10/01/2009

TILES
The writing process is in full swing.  They've got sketches of about 15 songs in various stages of completion - and have even resurrected the "Destiny Undelivered" song cycle from the Window Dressing-era vaults.  They'll be periodically auditioning new tunes as they continue to play throughout the Detroit area. Also being tossed around is the possibility of a limited edition 15th anniversary live CD.  Yes..., the international release of their of debut CD will turn 15 in 2010 - so they figured they should do "something."  They've never released a proper live recording and feel that maybe it's the right kind of commemoration. More details please visit Tiles Home Page.   10/01/2009

OSADA VIDA RETURNS THIS AUTUMN WITH A BRAND NEW ALBUM
Progressive rock band Osada Vida returns this Autumn with their third full-length album - “Uninvited Dreams”. Their brand new offering is a follow up to the highly acclaimed albums „Three Seats Behind A Triangle” (2007) and "The Body Parts Party" (2008). Rafal Paluszek (keyboards) says about their work in the studio:  “When we started to work on a new album in early February, we were focused on one thing - there would be no compromises. We had no idea what the title would be, how expensive gear we would have to use to record it, or what the front cover should look like. What we all were sure about though was that on our new album a lot of things would happen. When composing, we  realized how much the new music is diversified. Therefore, good mixing would be very important and had to be done by professionals. Marcin Chlebowski, with whom we had a pleasure to work for the third time, did a great job as an engineer and a producer of the new album. He managed to strengthen the power of the heaviest parts as well as emphasize the gentleness of more atmospheric moments, giving them more space. Thanks to him the music sounds now very selective. This album has definitely the best sound of all Osada Vida’s releases.” As it was with their previous releases, Osada Vida manifests a wide variety of influences and styles: symphonic prog-rock, neo-prog, prog metal, alternative rock and metal. “Uninvited Dreams” is yet another concept-album that draws from the tradition of ambitious rock distinctive of Yes, Porcupine Tree and Pain Of Salvation. “Uninvited Dreams” will be released by Metal Mind Productions on 23rd November in Europe and 1st December in USA (via MVD). The album will be available in two editions: as a standard jewel case CD and as a digipak with bonus tracks. More details to follow soon, or visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page.    09/13/2009

ELOY IS BACK WITH A NEW ALBUM AND ALSO A DOUBLE DVD
ELOY have not been active as a band since 1998, the demand for their music is still remarkable. Their work has had a significant impact on the history of rock, and many a journalist, as well as numerous fans, who even consider them to be "the best progressive rockband ever". The music seems to reverberate forever and keeps being rediscovered. It fascinates and touches many fans, above all, those who appreciate emotional, complexly symphonic rock-music with atmospheric sound creations, pulsating rhythms and massive guitars, combined with lyrics which escape irrelevance, performed in a way to transport the listener to another world. The strong feedback from all parts of the world, which has been around for many years, eventually reached the musicians themselves. And so Frank Bornemann, lead singer, guitarist and producer of ELOY, has brought the band together again for a 40th anniversary reunion. After a break of eleven years, they have launched a new album which recaptures the spirit of the early years. The album carries the title "Visionary" and will be available in shops at the end of 2009. Furthermore, ELOY fans are awaiting, with the arrival of »The Legacy Box«, a comprehensive retrospective in the form of a double DVD. The first ever official ELOY DVD contains numerous videos and TV recordins from all the band's periods, as well as a comprehensive documentary of the band's history with interviews, a photo gallery and many further features. »The Legacy Box« will be available in Spring 2010. Though the members of the band are scattered throughout the cities of Europe, they are still connected by the common bond of their unique music, which brings them back together again when the time comes. For more about please visit Eloy Home Page.    09/13/2009

MANDALABAND and ANCESTORS THEIR NEW ALBUM
A strange thing has happened. More than thirty years after Mandalaband I and II were released in the 1970s, two new Mandalaband albums are miraculously about to appear, like a mirage on the eastern desert horizon. Four of the principal musicians from the original era are still very much a part of the new project - Ashley Mulford (guitars, Mandalaband I & Sad Café); Woolly Wolstenholme (keyboards, Mandalaband II, BJH & Maestoso); Kim Turner (drums/percussion, Mandalaband II & Maestoso); and David Rohl (writer, engineer, producer & keyboards for both albums). But now the new, third incarnation of Mandalaband has been joined by Troy Donockley (Iona & the Bad Shepherds) on pipes, whistles and guitars; Jose Manuel Medina (Last Knight) on keyboards; Marc Atkinson (Gabriel & Riversea) on vocals; Geoffrey Richardson (Caravan, The Penguin Café Orchestra & the Murray Head band) on violin, viola, flute, clarinet & guitars; Craig Fletcher (BJH) on bass; and Barbara & Briony Macanas on vocals. So far, two new albums have been recorded, on and off, over a two-year period (staring in February 2007) in a small studio atop a Spanish mountain over-looking the Mediterranean Sea. The first 'BC - Ancestors' is scheduled for release in October 2009 on the Legend label. The second 'AD - Sangreal' will then be released in Summer 2010. There are then plans afoot to put the whole show on the road, playing material from both of the new albums and the previous two albums from the 1970s. These are unashamedly 'symphonic' rock albums in which the seven band composers have attempted to create majestic themes, with touches of Celtic and ambient atmosphere, intended to reflect the ancient and medieval world subject matter. The orchestrations are complex and full of depth, with few concessions to the standard four-piece rock band formula. The rhythm patterns are richly textured, drawing from Middle Eastern, African and Celtic cultures. But the melodies are simple, melodic and memorable. We hope you like what you hear. Tracks: Ancestors Overture, Eden, Nimrod, Shemsu Har, Karum Kanesh, Babylon, The Sons Of Anak, Aten, Ozymandias, Solomon The Wise, Akhyawa, The Wine Dark Sea, Elissa and Roots. For more about you can visit Mandalaband Home Page.    09/13/2009

STRATOVARIUS - RE-RELEASE OF THE EPIC DOUBLE ALBUM "ELEMENTS"
Stratovarius is without question one of the most recognizable and respected bands in the history of progressive power metal. Over the last 20 years the group released 12 LPs and a number of compilation and live albums. “Elements”, the epic double offering from 2003 is by many fans considered as Stratovarius’ most ambitious and monumental work yet. These two exclusive re-releases of “Elements Pt.1” and “Elements Pt.2” bring back some of the most enchanting sounds found within the power metal genre. The monumental albums brilliantly combine power metal heaviness with progressive soundscapes, bringing some of the most memorable compositions in the band’s career. “Elements Pt.1”, the first of two albums forming a beautifully written suite, starts off with the catchy mid-tempo opener “Eagleheart”, which resembles a bit “Hunting High and Low” from “Infinite”. It’s followed by “Soul of a Vagabond”, a strongly keyboard-oriented track with plenty of orchestral parts and a driving riff similar to the one from Dio’s “Holy Diver”. The next song, “Find Your Own Voice”, as well as the latter “Learning to Fly” represent the typical fast-paced Stratovarius style, with some extremely high-pitched vocals by Kotipelto. “Fantasia” and “Elements” are the album’s longest and most memorable compositions – filled with choir and orchestral arrangements, both tracks showcase true musical mastery. Other highlights include the instrumental powerhouse “”Stratofortress”, with some amazing guitar/keyboard battles, and the epic, dreamy song “Papillion”. The album ends with “A Drop in the Ocean”, a beautiful acoustic ballad. New digipak edition includes 3 bonus tracks. “Elements Pt.2” saw the light of day on October 27th, the same year as “Pt.1”. The opening track, “Alpha & Omega”, begins with the sound of rolling waves (the same sound which concluded the first part of the suite) and develops into an epic hymn with an outstanding vocal performance by Kotipelto. The song is followed by two fast-paced tracks – “I Walk To My Own Song” and “I’m Alive”. Next up is the album’s first ballad, “Season of Faith’s Perfection”, which transforms into the monumental “Awaken the Giant”, a powerful song clearly inspired by Black Sabbath. “Know the Difference” is another speedy power metal track, while “Luminous” brilliantly showcases the band’s progressive influences. The following track, “Dreamweaver”, is yet another Stratovarius classic – a strong, epic composition, sounding like Rush combined with metal. “Elements Pt.2” ends with a piano ballad “Liberty”, an amazing conclusion to this enchanting suite. Metal Mind Productions will re-release “Elements Pt.1” & “Pt.2” on 21st September in Europe and 1st December in USA (via MVD). Both titles will be available in a new digipak edition, each limited to 2000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc. Bio - The beginnings of Stratovarius reach back to 1984, when three musicians – Tuomo Lassila (drums/vocals), John Vihervä (bass) and Staffan Stråhlman (guitar) formed a band called Black Water. In 1985, by Stråhlman’s idea, that name was changed to Stratovarius, a portmanteau of Stratocaster and Stradivarius. Later that year Stråhlman parted with the group and a young guitarist Timo Tolkki stepped in as his replacement. He also took on the vocal duties, as well as assumed most of the songwriting. His presence brought in the rock and neo-classical influences, which later became the band’s trademark. In 1987 Stratovarius recorded their first demo (featuring the songs “Future Shock”, “Fright Night” and “Night Screamer”), which they sent to numerous record labels. Finally, CBS Finland decided to give the group a chance and in 1988 released Stratovarius’ two singles – “Future Shock” and “Black Night”, followed in 1989 by a full-length album – “Fright Night”. The LP was considered by reviewers as a very promising debut, but that didn’t satisfy the label, which dropped the band within a year. After some personnel changes, Stratovarius returned in 1991 with a new record deal (Bluelight Records) and a new album, called simply “Stratovarius II”. Unfortunately, the cooperation with the new label didn’t turn out as well as expected, hence Stratovarius moved to Noise Records in 1992 and re-released their second opus under the new title “Twilight Time”. The third album, “Dreamscape”, followed in 1994 and featured the band’s new bass player – Jari Kainulaien. 1994 also welcomed another grand change in the group’s lineup, when Timo Kotipelto was hired as a full-time vocalist. The first album with Timo on vocals – “Fourth Dimension” – was released in 1995 and proved to be a great success, taking Stratovarius’ music on a whole new level. Unfortunately, the fresh musical direction was not accepted by the band’s original drummer Tuomo Lassila, who soon left Stratovarius along with keyboardist Antii Ikonen. Fortunately, the group soon found worthy replacements: Swedish keyboardist Jens Johansson and German drummer Jörg Michael. With this line-up the group began working on their fifth opus – “Episode”. Released in July 1996, the album proved to be a breaking point in Stratovarius’ career, offering brilliantly arranged music executed with truly epic measures (the LP featured a large choir and a string orchestra). “Episode” became known as the band’s most successful release to date. It was followed by three other albums in the following years: “Visions” (1997), “Destiny” (1999) and “Infinite” (2000). On January 27th, 2003 Stratovarius released “Elements Pt.1” – the first of two albums forming a beautifully written suite, which proved to be their most epic project yet. The album starts off with the catchy mid-tempo opener “Eagleheart”, which resembles a bit “Hunting High and Low” from “Infinite”. It’s followed by “Soul of a Vagabond”, a strongly keyboard-oriented track with plenty of orchestral parts and a driving riff similar to the one from Dio’s “Holy Diver”. The next song, “Find Your Own Voice”, as well as the latter “Learning to Fly” represent the typical fast-paced Stratovarius style, with some extremely high-pitched vocals by Kotipelto. “Fantasia” and “Elements” are the album’s longest and most memorable compositions – filled with choir and orchestral arrangements, both tracks showcase true musical mastery. Other highlights include the instrumental powerhouse “”Stratofortress”, with some amazing guitar/keyboard battles, and the epic, dreamy song “Papillion”. The album ends with “A Drop in the Ocean”, a beautiful acoustic ballad.  “Elements Pt.2” saw the light of day on October 27th, the same year as “Pt.1”. The opening track, “Alpha & Omega”, begins with the sound of rolling waves (the same sound which concluded the first part of the suite) and develops into an epic hymn with an outstanding vocal performance by Kotipelto. The song is followed by two fast-paced tracks – “I Walk To My Own Song” and “I’m Alive”. Next up is the album’s first ballad, “Season of Faith’s Perfection”, which transforms into the monumental “Awaken the Giant”, a powerful song clearly inspired by Black Sabbath. “Know the Difference” is another speedy power metal track, while “Luminous” brilliantly showcases the band’s progressive influences. The following track, “Dreamweaver”, is yet another Stratovarius classic – a strong, epic composition, sounding like Rush combined with metal. “Elements Pt.2” ends with a piano ballad “Liberty”, an amazing conclusion to this enchanting suite. After the release of both “Elements” albums, Timo Kotipelto and Jörg Michael decided to leave Stratovarius, leaving the band in pieces. Fortunately, in 2005 the original line-up was reformed, with the addition of new bass player Lauri Porra, who replaced Jari Kainulaien after his departure in June. The group released a self-titled album in September and went on an excessive world tour. In 2008 Timo Tolkki officially stated that he would no longer be a part of Stratovarius, leaving the name rights to the remaining band members. The most recent album by Stratovarius is “Polaris”, released in May 2009. “Elements Pt.1” & “Pt.2” remain Stratovarius’ bravest musical endeavors yet. The monumental albums brilliantly combine power metal heaviness with progressive soundscapes, bringing some of the most memorable compositions in the band’s career. And taking you on a journey you will never forget. For more about please visit Metal Mind Productions Home Page.    09/13/2009

LAVA ENGINE UNDER MANAGEMENT
Things have happened since last, but of course mainly behind the curtain. The biggest news is that we've met once with our new bassplayer but this was more like an introduction and presentation of the current songs and so on. We'll follow up with a weekend within short where some hard groundwork will be done, involving Simon Dahlström to the Lava Engine line-up. He will be a part of our next live occasions for those who wonder. The next happening to mention is that we are now under a management who will handle all/most of our booking requests and in general act as a hunter of live gigs for the sake of Lava. We're talking about Undertaker Management and in person known as Robert "Bubba" Bohlenius. Some of you may have heard about him, or know him quite well since he's for a fact a talker and has for sure been around. Let's hope for the best with all this. Two gigs are in progress though which has been in the system for quite a while now, and before the arrival of the mangement. If all goes well and in the direction we want, we'll be able to present to you one gig in Jönköping quite soon AND another one in Gothenburg. The last mentioned is the one that's most confirmed and will be published quite soon. For more about please visit Lava Engine website.    09/13/2009

RENAISSANCE 2009 TO CELEBRATE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF ENGLAND’S  “CLASSICAL ROCK” PIONEERS WITH SPECIAL FALL EAST COAST TOUR
Annie Haslam and Michael Dunford to Lead World-Class Musicians on 9-City Concert Tour of Theaters and Performing Arts Centers Starting Oct. 6. In celebration of their 1969 formation, English "classical rock" pioneers Renaissance are embarking on a special 40th Anniversary Fall Concert Tour to re-introduce to new generations the lush, orchestral favorites that made them a staple of 1970s progressive rock radio. Led by Annie Haslam and Michael Dunford, the voice and principal songwriter, respectively, of the band’s most popular lineup, RENAISSANCE 2009 will embark on a nine-city East Coast tour of theaters and performing arts centers that commences Oct. 6 in Annapolis, MD, and includes New York, Philadelphia and Washington, home to the nation’s top progressive rock stations during the classic Renaissance era. "I'm thrilled to be performing these truly unique masterpieces again," says Haslam, whose five-octave voice is one of the most legendary in rock history. “These songs are a big part of my life and I will sing my heart out." Joining Haslam and Dunford in RENAISSANCE 2009 are keyboardist Rave Tesar and bassist-vocalist David J. Keyes, both of whom were previous members of Renaissance and the Annie Haslam Band, plus keyboardist-vocalist Tom Brislin (Yes, Debbie Harry, Meat Loaf, Francis Dunnery) and drummer-percussionist Frank Pagano (Bruce Springsteen, Smashing Pumpkins, Bette Midler, Barry Manilow). Together, these world class musicians will revisit the symphonic textures, stunning vocals and poetic lyrics that embody the band’s hauntingly compelling international themes, with fresh interpretations of their most admired compositions. “Carpet of the Sun,” “Ocean Gypsy,” “Mother Russia,” "Ashes Are Burning," “Running Hard,” “Prologue,” and "Northern Lights" are central to Renaissance’s most prolific period (1972-78), which produced the albums Prologue, Ashes Are Burning, Turn of the Cards, Novella, Scheherazade and Other Stories, and A Song for All Seasons, as well as 'Live' at Carnegie Hall (1976), the deluxe two-disc set recently reissued. Renaissance originally rose from the ashes of the Yardbirds, with Haslam and Dunford joining at the dawn of the 1970s to define their work with folk rock and classical fusions, including quotations from and allusions to, such composers as Bach, Chopin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock FM stations like WNEW (New York), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance, while the band was thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in New York City to the Royal Albert Hall in London. "We've wanted to bring these songs to American audiences again and now with these great musicians," adds Michael Dunford, "I'm looking forward to it with great anticipation." For more about visit Annie Haslam Home page, or visit RENAISSANCE Home page.    09/13/2009

BONES OF FREEDOM HAVE JUST RELEASED THEIR FULL LENGHT ALBUM "WORLD DOMINATION 1"
Swedish Hardrockers BONES OF FREEDOM have just released their full lenght album "World Domination 1" through Spook Records. This CD is the follow up from their critically acclaimed 2008 debut E.P "Butterfly". Both releases have been self financed by the band, recorded and produced at Studio Hardrock Gothenburg and released through Spook Records, Lossiemouth, Scotland. World Domination is the theme (don’t mention concept) of the album, rather than the bands manifesto and boasts 13 tracks covering subjects that dominate our world today. Themes include Love, Sex, Money, Greed, Reality TV, Global Warming,Myths & Legends, History and Religion. The four elements of the band blend their varied influences and give them time to distil in order to produce a pure, ballsy, soulful classic rock sound with attitude that at times manages to sound contemporary yet also contains hints of their hippie psychedelic leanings and plays like a soundtrack to their 70’s childhoods. World Domination 1 is available in CD format via mail order online at www.myspace.com/bonesoffreedom & www.spookrecords.co.uk. World Domination 1 is also available to download through iTunes worldwide. Tracklist: Loud And Proud, Blitzkrieg, Miss Dynamite, Save My Soul, The Wolf, 1973, Mistress, Led Waters, Soldiers Song, Ten, Greed, Down ad Celtic Woman. For more info, please visit Bones of Freedom Home Page.      09/13/2009

PHIL COLLINS REVEALS HE WILL NEVER DRUM AGAIN DUE TO SPINE INJURY
By Tom Bryant 
Phil Collins yesterday revealed he will never play the drums again because of a spine injury. The Genesis star says he can no longer even hold his drum sticks because sitting at a kit is too painful. Phil, 58, said: "I've got a condition that means I can't play any more. After playing drums for 50 years, I've had to stop. "Obviously I'm very sad about it. My vertebrae has been crushing my spinal cord because of the position I drum in. "It comes from years of playing. I can't even hold the sticks properly without it being painful. "I even used to tape the sticks to my hands to get through. But don't worry, I can still sing." The news will be heartbreaking for Phil's millions of fans worldwide. A friend said: "He is devastated as drumming is everything to him. It's how he made his name and it set him on the road to superstardom. "But drumming has been getting more and more painful and he decided enough was enough and called it a day. He has to put his health first." Phil, who has sold more than 150 millions albums, was speaking at a garden party on Tuesday in aid of the Prince's Trust. He is a celebrity ambassador for the charity and Prince Charles and Camilla invited Phil to the reception at their Highgrove home near Tetbury, Glos. Phil first found stardom as the drummer in 70s prog rock favourites Genesis after answering an advert in the music paper Melody Maker He initially only did backing vocals but took over the microphone when lead singer Peter Gabriel left in 1975. A Trick Of The Tail, the group's first album featuring Collins on lead vocals, entered the charts at No.3.He subsequently launched a solo career as well and his first album Face Value went to No.1. It was followed by a string of hit singles such as In The Air Tonight and You Can't Hurry Love. Phil, who was a child actor, also starred in the 1988 movie Buster. In 1996 he announced was leaving Genesis after 26 years. He recently won a new generation of fans with a Cadbury's advert featuring a gorilla drumming along to In The Air Tonight.      09/13/2009

HALCYON WAY THE ATLANTA, GA BASED PROGRESSIVE METAL BAND
The Atlanta, GA based progressive metal band Halcyon Way has parted ways with singer Sean Shields due to creative differences. Taking over on vocals for the Nightmare Records recording artist is Steve Braun, known for his work with Italian progressive-metallers ASHENT, who have released two records via Lion Music.  "I'm really excited and humbled by the opportunity to jam with these guys, and I'm looking forward to help take the band to the next level on the new record," said Steve. "We're very excited about having Steve in the band, he's got a fantastic voice and will have no trouble whatsoever with the older songs, he's adding a lot of new life to the material for the new album, and he's a professional in every sense of  the word - he's got a great attitude, and our fans will be thrilled with our choice.  The new album is going to be crushing and it will be a great way for Steve to introduce himself to our fans," said guitarist Zane Matthews. Halcyon Way are currently tracking the follow up to "A Manifesto For Domination", which is tentatively scheduled for release in Spring 2010.  The album is being produced by Jon Bodan & Lasse Lammert, and the drums are being engineered by Mike Froedge (DOUBLEDRIVE, BLOODSIMPLE, DIXIE INCORPORATED) at Open Sky Studios in Atlanta, GA.  The band also just completed tracking a guest appearance by Pamela Moore of QUEENSRYCHE fame. The band will not miss any scheduled shows due to the move, and is scheduled to play at Pathfinder Metalfest on October 24, 2009 with ASKA, TWISTED TOWER DIRE, and many other acts.  Halcyon Way has appeared at Rocklahoma on three occasions, Nightmare Metal Festival II, and at ProgPower USA twice, as well as having shared the stage with HELLOWEEN, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, KAMELOT, SYMPHONY X, DORO PESCH, and many others.  Halcyon Way released their debut record, "A Manifesto For Domination" on Nightmare Records on November 11, 2008 to rave critical reviews.  The album was produced by guitarist Jon Bodan with assistance from James Murphy (TESTAMENT, DEATH, OBITUARY), and was mixed by Lasse Lammert (ALESTORM).  It also featured guest appearances from Jonah Weingarten (PYRAMAZE, AVIAN) and Blaze Pearson (THE SOULS UNREST). For more information, visit Halcyon Way Home Page or Halcyon Way MySpace Site.     09/13/2009

AJALON AND THEIR NEW ALBUM "THIS GOOD PLACE"
Well the news is that they are very close to completion of the new Ajalon titled "This Good Place". They also are happy to say Wil Henderson has returned to the band and they are continuing to move forward with new material and possible live dates. News of these events will emerge over the span of 2009 so stay tuned. "This Good Place" marks a huge step forward for Ajalon. This is a CD that will feature some great musical moments as well as stellar performances from both the band and some awesome guest players. Listeners will find this a much more allegorical album lyrically than the first two releases. The thematic concept on this CD addresses the depravity and selfishness of the human condition and how it has lead to the downfall of our character. But the story is undergirded with the concept that it is never too late to turn from those ways to find something greater within ourselves that ultimately leads them to "This Good Place"!!! The CD feature 7 tracks with a running time of approximately 60 minutes. There is one instrumental track on the CD and one epic song about 20 minutes in length. Much of the album features brand new material developed over the last three years. There are also a few previously unreleased classic Ajalon songs that have been reworked and newly recorded, mixed in as well. This is a very different sounding album that finds its’ place in the current mainstream of Progressive Rock music while maintaining some of that trademark Ajalon sound. They have created a MySpace page and there are a couple of samples up for us to check out from the new CD. If you want to know more, please visit Ajalon Home Page.    09/03/2009

DARWINS'S RADIO - AN ENGLISH PROG BAND. WITH A NEW ALBUM!
Featuring Dec Burke of Frost* on vocals and guitar, and Mark Westworth of IQ on keyboards, DR have just released their second album, Template For A Generation. Their first album, Eyes Of The World, was released on 2006; they performed at ROSfest in 2007 and TFAG has at last come out - and it's been well worth the wait. Great songs, great instrumentation, great playing, great music. For more about the band visit Darwins's Radio, also listen to some snippets and get background info visit MySpace Site.    09/03/2009

OBIYMY DOSCHU AND “ELEHIA” A UKRAINIAN PROG ROCK BAND
Obiymy Doschu (Rain's Embrace) is a band from Kiev, Ukraine that plays very lyrical, autumnal rock music with progressive rock, neoclassic, neofolk and doom metal influences. The band was formed in early 2006, and since then it has performed on big music festivals including Taras Bulba (Dubno), Upfest (Lutsk), Rok-Lastivky (Kyiv) and in music clubs including Filin (Kyiv), Barvy (Kyiv), Bingo (Kyiv), Alternative 38 (Chernihiv). Obiymy Doschu is currently in the final stages of working on their debut album that will be released in August 29th 2009. The line-up today are: Volodymyr Agafonkin - vocals, acoustic guitar, Oleksiy Katruk - electric guitar, Mykola Kryvonos - bass guitar, Serhiy Dumler - drums, percussion and Mariya Kurbatova - keyboards. For more about the band and their new album, visit Obiymy Doschu home page.    09/03/2009

BELIEVE AND "THIS BREAD IS MINE" OUT NOW
“This Bread Is Mine”, the third full-length album of the Polish prog-rockers Believe, is released in Europe today, on Monday 31st August. American fans of the band still have to wait till 6th October (the album will be distributed by MVD). They are revealing yet another track from this album. You can listen to “Mine” on the official MMP’s profile on Metal Mind Myspace. “This Bread is Mine” features eleven tracks dedicated to those who like to listen and seek sense in different sounds… The lyrics were written by Robert Sieradzki, a dedicated friend, who is also the author of the lyrics for Believe’s previous albums. His lyrics fit the music perfectly and just intuitively reflect the emotions evoked by the collection of sounds. The music itself is a result of feelings and experiences of all Believe’s members: Mirek Gil (ex-Collage, ex-Mr. Gil, guitars), Karol Wróblewski (vocals, flute, keyboards), Przemas Zawadzki (ex-Collage, bass guitar), Satomi (violin), and Vlodi Tafel (drums & percussion). The guest musicians included Paulina Druch (cello) and Bartek Zbroszczyk (guitar). The sound mix for the album was handled by Wlodek Kowalczyk, Polish producer responsible for the completion of projects of such Polish legends as Klaus Mit Foch, Róze Europy, Daab, Oddzial Zamkniety, Dezerter, and Lady Pank. In order to get more advanced sound quality, Believe collaborated with Andy Jackson, prominent British sound engineer, who had worked on Pink Floyd’s and David Gilmour’s albums. His most recent work was David Gilmour’s “Live in Gdansk”. The album is available in two versions: as a standard CD and a digipak CD containing a bonus track. Believe - an outstanding art-rock act formed by the guitarist Mirek Gil, the former leader and composer of Polish prog-rock legend Collage. Believe’s debut album “Hope to See Another Day” (2006) received very good reviews from both media and fans. The follow-up album entitled “Yesterday Is A Friend” (2008) brought powerful sound full of faith and melody and gained them many new fans. In July 2008 Metal Mind Productions released the band’s first DVD entitled “Hope To See Another Day Live”. At the end of 2008 the band changed their line-up. Believe has begun a new era of their career with a new vocalist – Karol Wróblewski. For more about the album and the band please visit Believe on the internet web site.    09/03/2009

KATATONIA TO RELEASE THEIR NEW ALBUM
Swedish Progressive Metal act, Katatonia, is set to release their latest album, Night is the New Day, on November 10th via Peaceville Records. The highly anticipated album, from one of Europe's premier Progressive bands, Night is the New Day is the follow up to Katatonia's groundbreaking 2006 release, The Great Cold Distance. It is their eighth studio album to date. The band is currently finishing up mixing the new record in their hometown of Stockholm. Although Night is the New Day is Katatonia's eighth album, they still continue to challenge themselves musically, always looking for ways to take their distinct, melancholy sound a step further. "I realize that I've never sung this MUCH on an album before," explains vocalist Jonas Renkse. “Not that I'm singing ALL THE TIME (don't worry), but the vocals are much more demanding." He admits, "My voice was already tired from the studio session, and even more tired from the gigs and I was really worried, but behind the microphone everything fell into place for that one last session." The band anticipates the album to be completed the first week of September, and plan to launch a mini-site (www.nightisthenewday.com) soon after with a complete track list, audio samples, and more. The artwork for Night is the New Day was done by Travis Smith, whom also produced the art for The Great Cold Distance, as well as numerous other Katatonia albums. Following the completion of the album, Katatonia will head out on a European tour with the likes of Porcupine Tree and Paradise Lost. For more information on Katatonia website, Night is the New Day, and Peaceville Records.    09/03/2009

TRANSATLANTIC'S THE WHIRLWIND NEW AKBUM
Transatlantic - the Progressive Rock Supergroup featuring Dream Theater's Mike Portnoy, Marillion's Pete Trewavas, The Flower Kings' Roine Stolt and Neal Morse (Ex-Spock's Beard) - will release their long-awaited third album in October 2009. "The Whirlwind" is a 77-minute piece of music that is sure to satisfy the band's legions of fans that have patiently waited almost the entire decade for the reunion of these 4 musicians. The Whirlwind will be available in two formats: A Regular Edition Single CD of the entire 77 minute Epic as well as a 2-CD Special Edition containing a Bonus Disc with 8 newly recorded Studio Tracks, 4 new Transatlantic compositions and 4 Cover Songs). The Track Listing for the Special Edition is: Disc One: "The Whirlwind" Disc Two: 1. SPINNING, 2. LENNY JOHNSON, 3. FOR SUCH A TIME, 4. LENDING A HAND, 5. THE RETURN OF THE GIANT HOGWEED (Genesis). 6. A SALTY DOG (Procol Harum), 7. I NEED YOU (America / The Beatles) and 8. SOUL SACRIFICE (Santana). Transatlantic'S The Whirlwind is currently scheduled for the following release dates: October 23rd 2009: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, October 26th 2009: Europe and October 27th 2009: North America.    09/03/2009

NATURAL GAS ALBUM FEATURING BADFINGER, HUMBLE PIE AND URIAH HEEP MEMBERS
Legendary Natural Gas Album Featuring Badfinger, Humble Pie and Uriah Heep Members Gets CD Treatment. - Music collectors worldwide are ecstatic with the CD release of the legendary 'Natural Gas' album featuring Badfinger, Humble Pie and Uriah Heep alumni. The Natural Gas album has been given the CD treatment by premier re-issue label Renaissance Records in conjunction with ItsAboutMusic.com, who has an impressive back catalog of releases. Originally released in 1975 on the Private Stock label, the eponymous debut by Natural Gas featured Joey Molland of Badfinger, Jerry Shirley of Humble Pie and Mark Clarke of Uriah Heep and Colosseum. "I went to this place called Blakes in London, which was a hangout for rockers," recalls Joey Molland. "It was a cool little place. One night I saw a friend of mine there named Mark Clarke; a bass player from Li verpool who9d played with Uriah Heep and Colosseum. We were just talking and having a laugh and I asked him, 'What are you doing?' He said, 'I’m going up to Jerry Shirley’s this weekend. I’m going to stay there and we’ll probably have a jam – why don’t you come with us.' I didn’t really know Jerry, but I thought it would be cool. So Mark calls him and Jerry says. 'Come on up.' We go on up to Jerry Shirley’s house – he had a lovely little farmhouse outside of London. We found out that day that he had just left Humble Pie. Later on that night we had a jam; I think it was Clem Clemson, Jerry, Mark, myself and there may have been one or two others. We had a lot of fun, just playing rock ‘n’ roll songs and blues songs.The next morning Mark, Jerry and myself decided to put a band together. We thought, 'Why not. But do we have any songs?' I had a couple of songs, which I played to them. One was called 'Once Again A Love Song' and the other was called 'Dark Cloud'. Likewise, Mike had a couple songs. We also got a keyboardist, a guy named Dave Kafinetti from the band Rare Bird. He went on to be the keyboard player in 'Spinal Tap'. What a knockout guy!" Kafinetti was replaced before the recording of the album by Peter Wood who co-wrote 'Year of the Cat' with Al Stewart. The 20 Natural Gas alb um was recorded at Crystal Studios in Los Angeles and produced by legendary Mountain member Felix Papalardi. "Felix was really nice," says Joey, "a real sociable guy and talented fellow. As far as a producer went, we really wanted Mal Evans to do it. But the label wanted Felix Papalardi, the bass player from Mountain who’d done Cream and all that – the label wanted him to do it. Apparently Felix wanted to do the project as well, so that was that. I think Mal was pretty disappointed actually." And what about a name for the new super group? "I think Jerry Shirley came up with the name ‘Natural Gas’ – he was very into it. I never really suggested names for bands – I’m not really good at it. At the time in 1975 natural gas was very much in favor; it was the new clean burning fuel being more and more used. So it seemed like a good idea, and I guess it’s a cool name. It did suggest energy, which was what we were all about. The philosophy of the band was to rock out, you know what I mean…just have a really good time doing it." The LP was released to critical praise from the music press worldwide. Natural Gas would support the album release with a major tour opening for Peter Frampton=2 0on his 'Frampton Comes Alive' world tour. "Jerry Shirley had played with Peter Frampton in Humble Pie and so they were obviously close," Joey recalls. "I’d known Peter myself kind of at arms length since he was with the Herd all those years before. So on and off we’d cross each other’s paths. I think Jerry had been working with an agent who’d worked with Humble Pie – Frank Barcelona of Premier talent. He got in touch with them to see if they’d be interested in booking Natural Gas. They were at that time putting the 'Frampton Comes Alive' tour together. They were able to get us opening slots on a lot of the shows – they did us that great favor!" Unfortunately, Natural Gas's debut album would became the band's only release. Joey Molland would soon return to the Badfinger fold, while Jerry Shirley would go on to work with Fastway and eventually return to Humble Pie. Mark Clarke would find work with Rainbow, Billy Squier and Leslie West, while Peter Wood, who passed away in 1993, would later work with Roger Waters and Bob Dylan. The 'Natural Gas' album sadly drifted into obscurity and eventually would become a much sought after collector's item. Now fans of Natural Gas can rejoice with the new re-mastered version of the album, which features the original album artwork and photos. Along with the pristine sound of the ne w CD is the20addition of three unreleased bonus tracks! Never before issued in any form, two rare demos of "Little Darlin' " and "Christmas Song", along with a rocking rehearsal of "Christmas Song" is included on the CD making this the ultimate 'Natural Gas' collectors edition. Renaissance Records, who recently partnered with It'sAboutMusic.com, has several exciting upcoming releases planned such as The Zombies - 'Odessey and Oracle' Live (CD and vinyl), Unicorn titles produced by legendary Pink Floyd member David Gilmour, Roxy Music, Sad Café and Pat Benatar live CDs, and Nick Gravenites, Michael Stanley and It's A Beautiful Day back catalogues to name a few. ItsAboutMusic.com was the first E-Label of its kind, that is, an imprint that exists and thrives exclusively online. Founded 7 years ago by Dean Sciarra, music journalist, editor of the FM Radio trade publication - Walrus, artist manager, and head of the independent record company - 7Records, ItsAboutMusic.com boasts a growing roster of exceptional independent artists from a myriad of genres including Pop, Rock, AAA, Americana, Alternative Rock, Classic Rock, Celtic, Blues, World, Folk, and Jazz. The label's credo is simple: to introduce the world to the best new music rendered by the best artists. For more information visit It's About Music Home Page.     09/03/2009

NEW PINK FLOYD BOOK: "PINK FLOYD FAQ", BONUS FUN STUFF
More than four decades since their first album, and 35 years after the release of their mind-boggling masterpiece The Dark Side of the Moon, Pink Floyd continues to inspire and mystify rock fans around the world. From the warped pop of their early days to the cynical psychedelia of their classic period, Pink Floyd has expanded the possibilities of modern sound like no other group before or since. Now in Pink Floyd FAQ, pop culture author Stuart Shea delivers the inside scoop on Floyd’s particular brand of genius. Pink Floyd FAQ takes a lively and unusual approach to telling the band’s story. Brief chapters explore different aspects of Pink Floyd history, revealing the secrets behind the band’s astonishing studio sounds, massive tours, iconic album covers, cutting-edge gear, and more. Chapters include: • How did the U.S. discover Pink Floyd? • What notable guests played on Pink Floyd records? • What were the band’s most memorable gigs? • What are their greatest moments on record, as a group and individually? • What are the notable missteps—and how did the band recover? • Are the seemingly confessional songs true—or should we be skeptical? • What records influenced them, and which performers follow in their wake? • What was it like to be at a Pink Floyd show in 1967, in 1973, in 1980? With more than 300 pages of stories, history, observation, opinion, reminiscences from those who were there, and photos, Pink Floyd FAQ tells the band’s story, dissects their most popular work and obscure forgotten gems, and provides a wealth of little-known facts, all adding up to a provocative must-read for fans. Stuart Shea is the coauthor of Fab Four FAQ and an associate editor of The ESPN Baseball Encyclopedia. A cultural historian, musician, and occasional club DJ, Shea also penned Wrigley Field: An Unauthorized Biography. He lives and works in Chicago. For more aout please visit Pink Floyd On Line Home Page.     09/03/2009

NEMESEA AND THEIR LIVE ALBUM
The releasedate for the album was set at September first. This has been moved one week, to September 8th. Marco Hartmann for MHV did a great job on the artwork. The inside of the booklet is also very pretty! If you order you copy of the live album before September 8, you will receive a special cd/dvd with a lot of bonus material. For more about the album and the band please visit Nemesea Home Page.    09/03/2009

FROGG CAFE STARTED TO MIX NEW STUDIO CD
The band has just started to mix their new studio CD which will be entitled "Bateless Edge", 74 minutes of mayhem, but more about that soon.  It will be out in the fall along with some added digital goodies. For more about the new album please visit Frogg Cafe Home Page.     09/03/2009

10T RECORDS RELEASES "10T: UNDERCOVER"
CHARLESTON, South Carolina - August 12, 2009 (10T Records) "10T Records is excited to announce the pending release of the CD  "Undercover"on September 15, 2009.  "Undercover"is the label's first compilation project, featuring never before heard performances from the 10T roster of artists. The concept behind "Undercover" is simple. The label asked each of its artists to select a song by another artist that was influential in the development of their own musical identity; a composition that might not sound exactly like what that 10T Records artist has evolved into, but one that significantly inspired their creativity at some point in their musical past.  The mission was then to not simply do a faithful cover of that song, but to reinterpret the tune such that it represented where the artists musically find themselves currently.  This collection's purpose is to pay homage to superb artists from our distant and recent past while providing our listeners with a unique view into the current mindset of these talented musicians with whom  10T Records is honored to be associated," says 10T Records president Steve Carroll.  "We hope everyone enjoys these recordings as much as  we and the artists involved enjoyed putting it together." 10T: Undercover track listing: FROM.UZ - Starless and Bible Black/King Crimson, THE VITAL MIGHT - Sleeping Beauty/A Perfect Circle, LITTLE ATLAS - Battle of Evermore/Led Zeppelin, MAN ON FIRE - Visions of China/Japan, FROGG CAFÉ - The Dance of Maya/Mahavishnu Orchestra, BOLT - Das Model/Kraftwerk, FLUTTR EFFECT - The Chauffeur/Duran Duran, EVERYTHING IN SEVEN - Man on the Corner/Genesis, ELF PROJECT - Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun/Pink Floyd, THE REBEL WHEEL - Cross Eyed Mary/Jethro Tull and STEVE KATSIKAS - The Best Laid Plans/Kevin Gilbert. "Undercover" is available for immediate pre-sale through the 10T Records website. All orders received between now and the official release date will ship by the end of the week prior to the official release. Additionally, all tracks from "Undercover" are available to preview in their entirety through the 10T Records website.     09/03/2009

ALLIAS EYE
Their search had ended: Tilmar Fischer will be joining the band as their new keyboard player. More news on Tilmar (and his silly name) on their website soon! Now we can finally finish our new album; before we do, however, we'll be playing two supporting gigs for Subsignal (ex Sieges Even): Nov 11: Rind, Rüsselsheim, Germany, Nov 12: Rockfabrik, Ludwigsburg, Allias Eye Home Page.      09/03/2009

GENESIS LIVE 1973-2007 BOX SET FOR PRE-ORDER
The Genesis Live 1973-2007 CD/DVD Remasters Box Set is now available for PRE-order from the Camino store (release date: 14th September 2009). Following the reissue of the 14 Genesis studio albums Virgin/EMI now release 'Genesis Live 1973-2007' - an 11 disc box set gathering the 4 live albums recorded by the band  between 1973 & 1992. Also included, only available with this collection, is the long-awaited release in stereo and 5.1 of 'Live At The Rainbow 1973'. Bonus material includes 5 tracks from 'The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway' recorded at the Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles in January 1975. All albums feature brand new stereo mixes created by Tony Banks, Nick Davis and Mike Rutherford (apart from 'The Way We Walk' that uses re-sequenced original mixes). In addition 'Genesis Live', 'Seconds Out' and 'Live At The Rainbow 1973' also feature 5.1 DTS & Dolby Digital Surround Sound versions on audio DVD. The set has a space to incorporate the most recent live Genesis release - the 2-CD set 'Live Over Europe 2007'. For more info including full tracklist, and for PRE-orders. Please read our 'Pre-orders & Despatch Information Camino Records. Unfortunately we don't have a signed pre-order offer for this set - but, as consolation we're offering an unbeatable price and, of course, the usual superlative Camino service!     09/03/2009

LISA LARUE’S PROJECT 2K9 WORLD CLASS ROCK COMPILATION ALBUM
Muskogee, OK. - The latest single to be released by award-winning keyboardist Lisa LaRue, entitled "Kituwa"(Fingerwoven/Third Childhood Publishing)will available to the public on September 1, 2009. The single also has a "B" side entitled "Deluge". Both are part of LaRue's ambitious Project 2K9-World Class rock compilation album, which is set to be released on November 1, 2009. It features guest appearances from several international recording artists. "Kituwa" (LaRue/Adams), an instrumental features the talents of LaRue (UKB Cherokee/US - keyboards); Steve Adams (US -guitar); Merrill Hale (US - drums); John Payne (UK/US - bass). "Deluge"(LaRue), with lyrics adapted from British Canadian settler/ abolitionist Susanna Moodie’s poem "The Deluge" includes Lisa LaRue (keys); John Payne (vox); Steve Adams (US- guitar/mandolin); Chris Brown (US -bass); Svetlan Raket (Sweden - drums). This massive undertaking , with single releases throughout 2009, has garnered interest across the globe from industry professionals and contemporary rock aficionados alike. Initial reviews have been very positive: "Kituwa" is a really enjoyable instrumental track featuring Steve Adams (ARZ) guitars, John Payne (Asia ft John Payne) bass, and Merrill Hale (ARZ) drums. Another essential listening track is "Beautiful Illusion," which features Steve Adams (ARZ) guitars, Chris Brown (Ghost Circus and Roswell Six) bass, John Payne (Asia ft John Payne) vocals, Svetlan Raket (formerly of the Par Lindh Project) drums. Having a world class vocalist is already great, but John's performance on "Beautiful Illusion" is stunning! I am anxiously awaiting each successive release - these are the kinds of projects that really keep life interesting!" Frans Keylard - The Rogues' Gallery (progressive rock podcast) Other participants on earlier and future releases within the project are excited about the concept and the opportunity to be involved. "From the first moment I met Lisa my life changed for the better!" remarked David Mark Pearce (Cornwall/UK – guitar/vox- The Oliver Wakeman Band). " The generosity displayed from this remarkable woman to be invited to play on her album was just amazing. This album has everything - poise, passion, melody and power when needed. I'm honored to be a part of it!" Additional project guests include Jo DeBoeck (Belgium – vox, Beyond the Labyrinth); Geert Fleuw (Belgium -guitar/keys/composer, Beyond the Labyrinth); Gerry "Krenryg" Verstreken (Belgium -bass, Beyond the Labyrinth); and Unicorn Records performing artist Claire Vezina (Quebec – vox). LaRue is an accomplished musician in her own rite. Will Alexander (Keith Emerson, Herbie Hancock, Jeff Lorber, etc.) produced her debut CD, entitled "Beloved Tribal Women". This was followed by "Children's Songs in the Cherokee Language," for which she received 2 NAMMY nominations (Native American Music Awards). Other projects were "That Ol' Sofkee Spoon", a collaboration with flutist/guitarist John 'Yafke' Timothy (Muskogee - Creek), and an appearance on the Progressive Rock Hall of Fame's compilation CD "Soundscape"(2008). She is the recipient of the Oklahoma Music Awards' "Native American Artist of the Year 2008". LaRue was also a nominee in the "Instrumental" category for the 2008 Hollywood Music Awards. Her much acclaimed progressive rock CD, entitled "Transformation 2012" was released in December 2008. A native of Oklahoma, LaRue grew up in Topeka, Kansas. She is a tribal member of the federally recognized United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma, where she also serves as Tribal Historic Preservation Officer. All released Project 2K9 singles are available through Lisa Larue . For information about special guest vocalist, John Payne, please contact Sandy Serge at or email her at SergeEnt@aol.com.     09/03/2009

BY BLOOD ALONE ON TOUR IN SEPTEMBER
Many of you already know this but they are thrilled to announce that By Blood Alone is embarking on it's first mini-tour! Some of you may recall how their plans to tour in 2007 were abruptly halted due to Cruella's breast cancer battle. It was such a great disappointment for them at the time, but now they have the chance to finally get out on the road and wow some new audiences. The run will cover about a thousand miles over Sept 10 thru 12. Hotels are booked, the van is all arranged, and they have new merch on order (including download cards.) Some of the new material they have been working on for the past few months will make it's debut on tour. The show in Clifton NJ is shaping up to be the best one, as they are opening for power-metal biggies Seven Witches. They hope all of you within striking distance can make it down.    09/03/2009

TILT, ‘MILLION DOLLAR WOUND’ IS AVAILABLE
The debut EP from TILT, ‘Million Dollar Wound’ is available for digital download at a new low price of £2.99! The EP has been gathering fantastic reviews from all over and continues to gather momentum. This download includes the full EP as well as the original press release and full booklet artwork. Exclusively available from BandCamp this download offer will expire on September 7th, 2009.      09/03/2009

GENITORTURERS TAKING THE REVOLUTION TO THE STREETS WITH BRAND NEW ALBUM
“BLACKHEART REVOLUTION” IN STORES NOVEMBER 3RD
From the band whose dark, enchanting and aggressive style has provocatively entertained the world for over a decade comes a brand new chapter. From the smoldering ashes of Sin City comes the demand for REVOLUTION! ...arguably the GENITORTURERS best creation yet! Lead villainess GEN and her TORTURERS spare no creative expense in putting together a powerful new CD that truly realizes the diverse thematic artistry that has earned the band a global "cult" following. Blackheart Revolution combines the band's signature genre-bending musical style of aggressive rock, mechanical metal and underground electric pop with all the twists and turns of a sonic roller coaster of seductive mayhem that the band has crafted over their now legendary career. Co-produced by Scott Humphrey (Motley Crue, Rob Zombie, Ozzy), mixed by the masters at Chop Shop, this new release delivers exceptional songwriting and superior sound quality that is sure to deliver the intense aural fix the fans deserve. The GENITORTURERS, a band whose dark, enchanting and aggressive style has entertained the world for over a decade, now presents a new chapter in their ongoing book of provocation. Gen describes the bands new highly anticipated album release as genre defying. "Beholden to no one other than ourselves…we went back to our roots, to what inspired us to play music…and based on the eclectic nature of each of our musical tastes these roots ran deep and wide.” Years in the making, this precedent setting album surely is Genitorturers most powerful creation and is set to be a "must own" instant classic! Distribution in North America: MVD Entertainment, Australia: RIOT. For more about please vist GENITORTURERS Home Page.     09/03/2009

CORCIOLLI AND A NEW ALBUM
Corciolli was born in the city of São Paulo and begun his musical studies at 13. Besides the classical piano classes, he developed a deep interest on synthesizers sound possibilities. During those earlier years, Corciolli played with many bands, performing his first compositions and arrangements. In 1986, working as a professional musician, Corciolli went to the architecture college, graduating in 1990. He played with renowed bass player Celso Pixinga and with the Espirito Cigano, a very sucessfull rhumba flamenco band. Leaving the band, he produced his very first album ALL THAT BINDS US and established the Azul Music record company in 1993. In 1995, Corciolli released his second album UNIO MYSTICA, a musical piece in 7 movements that introduced alchemical texts in Latin, Gregorian Chants and orchestral arrangements. This album brought him international projection, being blessed by Pope John Paul II and released in several countries. In the following years, Corciolli was invited by the Tibetan Monks of Gaden Shartse to perform two remarkable concerts at the Latin America Memorial, at São Paulo. Afterwards, the artist recorded with the Monks the album THE NEW MOON OF EAST, an exquisite meeting between Tibetan sacred music and western music. In the year 2000, Corciolli released the collection named TUDOAZUL, that included ten albuns inspired by the main alternative therapies and ancestral systems of knowledge. The whole collection became a best-seller. Corciolli released the albuns EXOTIQUE (1998), UNIO CELESTIA (1999), ART OF SEDUCTION (2001), UM OLHAR (A Glance) (2004) and NOSSO LAR (2008). With over 1,5 million copies sold and many albums released all over the world, featuring in albums with Vangelis, Yanni, Alan Parsons Project, Kitaro, Dead Can Dance, Hans Zimmer, Secret Garden, Era, Sarah Brightman, Enigma, Luciano Pavarotti, Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo among others, Corciolli music is inspired and unique. His work is revealed in the rich subtlety of details which unite the traditional to the contemporary with sensibility and high quality. LIGHTWALK (2009), the outstanding new album brings 11 new songs, performed with stellar guests as Tony Levin on bass (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson); Acclaimed Brazilian percussionist Naná Vasconcelos (8 times "Best percussionist of the world" by Downbeat); virtuoso violinist Marcus Viana and the great vocals of Andre Matos (former singer of Metal bands Angra and Shaman).      09/03/2009

TDW RELEASE A NEW ALBUM
Yes dear readers, after months of preparation we can finally shine some light on new TDW stuff! As some of you might have known already, a new album has been in the works for a while now and we can now give out the first details about this exciting new project! First of all, the official TDW website and the TDW myspace have had a grand revampation! This has to do with the new TDW album that is in the works right now. The new TDW album will be called “Scrapbook” and it will be a double album featuring 18 new songs spanning over approximately 120 minutes. (Maybe more, considering the exact track lengths aren’t available yet.) This new record takes TDW music in a whole new diverse and more adventurous direction because this is the first record Tom (de Wit) wrote together with 9 guest musicians. The 9 guest musicians collaborating with Tom on this record are: Harry van Breda, Methilde Bouma, Leander Doornekamp, Leon Fonville, Laila Groeneveld, Lasse Groeneveld, Rianne Kosterman, Michiel van der Werff and Naomi de Wilde. You can find detailed information on the musicians on the official website. About the how and why of making an album like this, Tom had this to say:  “After the many years of work I did to make the Haunts (The previous concept album which was released in 2008) I felt creatively drained and I felt the need to challenge myself to refuel my creative batteries. After jamming and recording with some friends of mine, the idea to collaborate on writing this next record became very interesting and the coolest thing is, when I asked the others to join me, they all reacted very enthusiastic, so that’s where the new album direction came from.” The idea behind this album is that all the individual musicians who worked with Tom provided idea’s/riffs/theme’s etc and that Tom would make TDW songs out of that. “It was very refreshing for once to not be the main source of creativity all the time and to sit back and listen to what the guys and girls came up with. It is really inspiring to work with cool ideas like the ones that made it onto the album, it’s like I am a kid in a candy store, just picking the stuff I liked best to fiddle around and create songs with!” Further information about the songs and the way they sound will be given in the next months. (Keep checking the website for previews!) The album release is now slated for the Autumn of 2010. “I know this might sound far away for now, but I have to work with a lot of different people here and especially considering the amount of songs and all the stuff happening within them, I can really use all the time I can get to get it all right!” In general, for more information about this album visit TDW, and for some MP3s visit MySpace Site.     09/03/2009

TODD RUNDGREN TO PERFORM THE BRITISH PREMIERE OF 'A WIZARD / A TRUE STAR'
Live in concert at the London HMV Hammersmith Apollo Saturday 6th February 2010. Rock'n'roll icon, guitar genius, interactive progenitor, consummate singer/songwriter and record producer Todd Rundgren, will perform his paradigm shifting 1973 album, A Wizard, a True Star (known to the cognoscenti as AWATS) in its entirety for the first time ever in Britain on Saturday February 6th 2010 at the London HMV Hammersmith Apollo, which will be Todd's only UK performance of the seminal album which is hailed as an influential masterpiece by today's new bands, including Hot Chip. Tickets are priced £48.50, £45.00, £40.00, £32.00 (Agency and credit card bookings subject to a fee). This rare British premiere will be Rundgren's first and only UK concert since last year's Arenaalbum tour. In addition to his being a multi-talented musician and singer/songwriter and performer, Rundgren is also regarded as one of the best record producers of all time (XTC, Meat Loaf, Patti Smith Group, XTC, Grand Funk Railroad). His most recent critically acclaimed album production, 'Cause I Sez So, reunited him for the first time in 36 years with the legendary New York Dolls. Although Rundgren's breakthrough 1972 album, Something/Anything? is considered by many to be his masterpiece, the psychedelic impact and bordering-on-disturbing innovation of the follow-up, AWATS,is arguably Rundgren's most experimental and influential album. Stand-out tracks include the International Feel, Rock & Roll Pussy, You Don't Have To Camp Around, Sometimes I Don't Know What To Feel, Zen Archer and Just Another Onionhead. The album's closer, Just One Victory, has been included as an encore favorite in both Rundgren's and Utopia's live sets over the decades, but this will be the first time in Britain that he will perform the whole record live onstage, from start to finish. The first half of the concert will feature a selection of Rundgren's songs throughout his career, while the second half of the show will consist of the entirety of A Wizard, a True Star. A Wizard, A True Star is hailed as one of the most influential and pioneering progressive rock album recordings of all time. Originally released in 1973 (the longest running album on vinyl, clocking in at nearly one hour of running time: 55:56), much of the album is an extended medley after the fashion of The Beatles' late recordings. The effect of the songs merging one into another was immediate, infectious and dazzling; the lyrical content was often at once both tongue in cheek and hallucinogenic. Side One of the album includes a cover version of Never Never Land from the Broadway version of Peter Pan.  Side Two features a legendary medley of covers of doo-wop and pop soul hits, including I'm So Proud, Ooh Baby, Baby, La La Means I Love You and Cool Jerk. Arthur Wood illustrated the psychedelic cover painting that graced the original packaging. First editions of the vinyl LP were die-cut and included a "band aid" poem written by the punk poet Pattie Smith, and a short bio about the album, as well as a postcard encouraging purchasers to send their name to be included on a poster in Rundgren's next album; the eponymous Todd.     09/03/2009

GONG UNVEILS CUTTING EDGE PROMO VIDEO "HOW TO STAY ALIVE"
The celebrated psychedelic rock band, GONG, have today announced the world premiere of their brand new Japanese animated video ?How To Stay Alive,? taken from their highly anticipated forthcoming new studio album ?2032? (released 21st September). Click here to watch the new promo video at YOUTUBE. The video is a wonderful manga animation of Daevid Allen's drawings undertaken by the cutting edge Japanese Tokyo-based animation team ?Mood Magic?, who were responsible for System 7's  ?Hinotori? video (2008).   In line with the ?2032? album, the video pushes all the classic Gong buttons and mixes them with bang up to date sounds and video techniques.  The track features a rap by Daevid Allen based around the characters of the illustrious Planet Gong mythology, which lent itself well to an animation of the drawings ? and also features a beautiful solo at the end by original Gong member Didier Malherbe on the sax-like Armenian instrument the duduk. Gong embarks on a nationwide UK tour at the Bristol 02 Academy on 19th November, with the Steve Hillage Band confirmed as support act on all UK dates. 2032: For more about the New Album UK Tour visit Gong Home Page.     09/03/2009

FEAR FACTORY'S HATEFILES ALBUM TO BE RE-ISSUED SOON
Metal Mind Productions will re-release “Hatefiles” - Fear Factory's compilation album featuring rare, unreleased and remixed tracks from 2003. The album is notable as it contains "Terminate": the last song to be recorded with the original guitarist Dino Cazares. The collection also includes the original track "Demolition Racer", a demo version of "Dark Bodies," and a slamming instrumental track, "Machine Debaser."  The new digipak edition is limited to 2000 copies. Released on a golden disc, digitally remastered using 24-Bit process. The album will be available from the 7th September in Europe and 6th October in USA (via MVD). Official bio - Rarely can a musical artist claim to be a true innovator, a creator of their own genre, a revolutionary amongst a sea of sameness. Having invented the “cyber metal” sound, Fear Factory is one of those rare cases. Formed in Los Angeles in 1990, Fear Factory entered the metal scene with a crushing debut with 1992’s Soul Of A New Machine. Combining death metal with an industrial influence, the original lineup of vocalist Burton C. Bell, drummer Raymond Herrera, guitarist Dino Cazares and bassist Andrew Shives was onto something that had not been widely explored. Even Fear Factory’s earliest sound was immediately distinguishable by Herrera’s intense machine-like drumming and Bell’s tremendous dual vocal style, which seemed to effortlessly switch between animalistic growls and clear, operatic tones. Fear Factory had set a new standard in extreme music, a standard they would continue to bear to this very day. Soon after the release of Soul Of A New Machine, the band would release the Fear Is The Mindkiller EP. Fear Is The Mindkiller was composed of material from Soul Of A New Machine, remixed by Rhys Fulber and Bill Leeb of Front Line Assembly for an added industrial edge. Herrera and Bell’s fascination with technology would become a recurring theme for Fear Factory, both lyrically and stylistically, as they would often feature remixes as bonus tracks on studio albums. In 1995, Fear Factory would release their second full length album, Demanufacture, which further refined Fear Factory’s distinct sound. Herrera’s beats invoked robotic, mechanical imagery, while Bell’s lyrics were bleak and ominous. This was also the introduction of bassist Christian Olde Wolbers, who would replace Shives. The album told a tale of machines overthrowing humanity and human opposition to mechanical progress. The remix album, Remanufacture, was very well received by fans and kept the band fresh in listeners’ minds until the release of Obsolete in 1998. Obsolete saw a creative surge in Fear Factory. The album blended the technological themes of Demanufacture with a more cinematic atmosphere while Bell’s vocals reached a new level of refinement. A commercial success, Obsolete saw the band breaking into the Top 100 on the album charts. A headlining spot on the second stage of 1999’s Ozzfest as well as the band’s involvement in soundtracks to movies like Saw, Mortal Kombat and Resident Evil and video games like Rainbow Six: Lockdown and Donkey Kong Country helped to further cement Fear Factory as one of the premiere artists of the extreme music scene. Digimortal, which was released in 2001, would be the last Fear Factory studio album to feature Cazares on guitars. Although the album reached Top 40 status, Bell and Cazares were having differences, and Bell left the band. In 2002 the band released their original demo recordings as Concrete and in 2003, an album of remixes and rarities called Hatefiles. Just when it seemed the band was over, Bell returned and Cazares departed, allowing Fear Factory to be resurrected and create their return effort, Archetype, on Liquid 8 Records. Olde Wolbers took on guitar duties and Byron Stroud of Strapping Young Lad was recruited to handle bass. Archetype was a return to the Demanufacture-era sound and won much praise from longtime fans and supporters--one of which was Liquid 8 President Mike Catain.  So impressed by Fear Factory’s work ethic and influence on the entire genre, Catain created Calvin Records, an imprint of Liquid 8. Catain saw Calvin as an opportunity for Fear Factory to bring younger bands on board and give them the creative control that they needed to further their legacy.   Summer of 2005 sees the band preparing to release their fifth studio album, Transgression. Herrera describes Transgression as “very precise and heavy… Burton’s vocals soar while the keyboards add a cinematic and industrial feeling.”  Transgression sees the band working with producer Toby Wright for the first time. “Toby has worked with huge bands like Metallica, Korn, Alice In Chains and Soulfly,” says Herrera. “It’s definitely interesting working with somebody of his caliber. He’s also a really big fan, so it’s not like we’re just bringing in a heavy hitter who doesn’t know what this band is about.” Herrera also offers a preview of some of the new material. “Supernova is a mid-tempo song that will likely become a single, while Echoes Of My Scream features classical strings and an operatic sound.” With a confirmed slot alongside Megadeth, Dream Theater, Nevermore and the Dillinger Escape Plan on this summer’s Gigantour, Fear Factory will soon be bringing Transgression to towns across the country. For more about visit Metal Mind Productions website.     09/03/2009

RE-RELEASE OF A TRUE LEGEND OF THE 80'S ROCK ERA - STEEPLECHASE
As well as many other secrets found in the world of rock ‘n’ roll, this one also was destined to be revealed. Metal Mind Productions presents the complete collection of Steeplechase’s music which showcases a true legend of the 80’s rock era and a band worth remembering forever… The story of Steeplechase begun in 1975, when Kevin Brenner, an agent for the Creative Talent Associates (CTA - one of the largest club and bar scene booking agencies in the New York/New Jersey/Connecticut area at that time) came up with the idea of forming a band which would include the most talented local musicians around. Brenner knew exactly who he wanted to have in his project and presented his offer to three musicians – drummer Vinny Conigliaro, bassist Bob Held and guitarist Tony Summo. At first Steeplechase was meant to be merely a pop/commercial cover band, playing songs by the Beatles, Elton John and Peter Frampton. They even had two singers at that time, male and female. This formula, however, was soon abandoned, as the group was pretty much tired of the poppy repertoire and wanted to take on a more rock-oriented style. After finding a proper frontman – Eli Holland – Steeplechase finally went on to write original material, strongly influenced by Bad Company, Led Zeppelin and the guitar legend Jimi Hendrix. This exclusive re-release brings back Steeplechase’s original debut album from 1981 - "Steeplechase". New digipak edition is limited to 2000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc. The release date is set on 7th September in Europe and 6th October in USA (via MVD). For more about visit Metal Mind Productions website.     09/03/2009

EUREKA "SHACKLETON'S VOYAGE", A NEW ALBUM FROM THE FARMLANDS STUDIOS WITH YOGI LANG
His album Shackleton´s Voyage is spectacular in every respect and sees Hamburg's multi-instrumentalist Frank Bossert return to his musical roots. Influenced more strongly again by rock acts such as Yes and Rush, Bossert's Eureka project tells the true story of Sir Ernest Shackleton's sensational Antarctica expedition in the years 1914 to 1916. Musically, Shackleton´s Voyage operates at the interface of prog rock, symphonic, Celtic and " mainly in terms of his guitar style " Mike Oldfield influences. Another sensation is the involvement of Billy Sherwood, a former member of prog rock legend Yes, who contributed the vocals on "The Challenge" and "Going Home". Along with Sherwood, Shackleton´s Voyage features other illustrious guests: Yogi Lang of RPWL, mixed and mastered the album in his Farmlands Studio and contributed a fantastic Moog solo on "Heading South", complementing Bossert's synthesizer passages on "Going Home" and "Into The Lifeboats". Four tracks of the album can be pre-listened on myspace,  The full CD is also available from our RPWL shop.    09/03/2009

RUSH NEW BOOK "MIDDLE CLASS: DREAMING IN MIDDLETOWN" DUE IN OCTOBER - AUG. 27, 2009
Canadian progressive rock band RUSH was the voice of the suburban middle class. In the new book "Rush, Rock Music, and the Middle Class: Dreaming in Middletown", Chris McDonald assesses the band's impact on popular music and its legacy for legions of fans. McDonald explores the ways in which RUSH's critique of suburban life — and its strategies for escape — reflected middle-class aspirations and anxieties, while its performances manifested the dialectic in prog rock between discipline and austerity, and the desire for spectacle and excess. The band's reception reflected the internal struggles of the middle class over cultural status. Critics cavalierly dismissed, or apologetically praised, RUSH's music for its middlebrow leanings. McDonald's wide-ranging musical and cultural analysis sheds light on one of the most successful and enduring rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s. The 272-page book is due on October 28 via Indiana University Press. For more information, and to order a copy, visit Amazon.com.    09/03/2009

NO-MAN - MIXTAPED DVD LAUNCH EVENT AND WHEREVER THERE IS LIGHT EP
Mixtaped is a double DVD set and will be available from September 28th. The set comprises the band’s sell-out performance at London’s Bush Hall in 2008, a comprehensive career-spanning documentary, and numerous extras (including newly commissioned and archive video footage), and provides a fascinating insight into one of British music’s most unusual cult heroes. Click here for more details on Mixtaped. There will be a special launch event for Mixtaped at Rosemary Branch, Islington, the venue of the band’s debut concert 20 years ago, on August 22nd. The presentation will consist of a special 60 minute preview of last year’s Bush Hall performance (in widescreen and 5.1 surround sound), a 20 minute excerpt from the documentary Returning, and a 5.1 showing of the videos for Back When You Were Beautiful (especially commissioned for Mixtaped) and Wherever There Is Light. There will be two screenings at 2pm and 7pm. No-Man merchandise will be on sale and Tim Bowness, Steven Wilson and Mixtaped/Returning director Richard Smith will be in attendance at both showings. Please note that tickets are extremely limited due to the size of the venue and no refunds can be given. Ticket price – £10 per screening, click here to purchase tickets. Wherever There Is Light, a new EP that acts as a bridge between 2008’s Schoolyard Ghosts and Mixtaped, is now available from the Kscope store. For full details on Wherever There Is Light, including audio samples from the ep, as well as live footage of title track Wherever There Is Light, taken from the Mixtaped DVD, visit No-Man/KScope Music.     08/12/2009

PORTAL BAND RELEASES PROG METAL MASTERPIECE "BLOOD RED TAPE"
Canada - The music world is buzzing with the release of 'Blood Red Tape'; a seventy-minute progressive rock album recorded and produced over a three year period by progressive metal band Portal in Edmonton, Canada. 'Blood Red Tape' is a synthesis of two broad concepts into one unique perspective. The title combines the "red tape" often associated with bureacracy and impedence to progress, with the "blood" that is all-too-often shed when the former brings harm to those involved. On a deeper level, 'Blood Red Tape' may be used to describe the bureacracy that exists within each of us, as members of the animal kingdom who are resistant to change and new ideas, and fearful of the unknown. "Portal was a studio project of mine that slowly evolved out of an initial purchase of Cubase and subsequent random experimentation in by bedroom in my first year of university," says band leader Kenton Thomas, who is also lead vocalist, producer and plays guitar. "I had finished my piano studies a couple=2 0of years earlier and picked up guitar, and needed an outlet.  After a year and a half learning the ropes, I finally settled on a name, brought in some musicians I knew, and we finally hit the stage in January of 2001. The current line-up has been together for the last four years, with me and Kevin Hoskin (bass, recording engineer) as the only two original members." Along with Kenton and Kevin, Portal features Ross Brooks on lead guitar and backing vocal, and Bill George on drums. "Kenton Thomas... is a far cry from matching the rock ‘n’ roll musician archetype. Insightful and intelligent, [he] expresses his thoughts with sobering clarity and confidence." - Bryan Saunders, Vue Weekly. Portal's 'Blood Red Tape' represents a fusion of hard-rock, contemporary electronic elements, and a plethora of orchestral and ethnic instruments from all corners of the world, bound together in forms typical of classic progressive journeys. "I wouldn't go so far as to call it a 'concept album'," explains Kenton, "but this is the first time I've developed a CD from the top down - album title first, song themes second, lyrics third.  So I guess every song has to do with 'Blood Red Tape' in one way or another, but even the meaning behind the title broadened and deepened over three years as we progressed through things." Here's what the music press have been saying about Portal's new opus: "In addition to Marillion's new record 'Happiness' is the Road there's another record pu blishe d this year you have to buy: 'Blood Red Tape' by Portal from Canada. This is one hell of a progressive metal record, one of the best records I've ever listened to, really. Get it now!" - volter.de "A 70-minute assault on the senses that demands attention and deserves it undivided... 'Blood Red Tape's massive hooks, blasting drum beats and urgent political message hit like an atom bomb." - Francois Marchand, The Edmonton Journal. "This release simply puts Portal in a class of their own... The vocals are crisp and clean, Kenton Thomas delivers his low enigmatic voice perfectly in each incredible song... This is easily a pick for Album of the Year..." - Troy Kramm, melodic.net. A number of musical influences permeate Portal's wall of sound "Well, we've obviously each got our own favorites," says Kenton, "but I think it's fair to say a good umbrella for our earliest loves would be the early 90's grunge movement - everyone can count at least one west-coast or alternative band from that era among their favorites, from Soundgarden and Stone Temple Pilots to Smashing Pumpkins and the Chili Peppers.  Everything else sort of stemmed from there.  I've got a classical background myself, so I experienced a fairly natural progression into more progressive acts like Tool and Porcupine Tree from there, and I think the nature of Portal's roots as a studio project, where I quickly learned to love mixing and production, was probably the gateway to my love of the more electronic elements,=2 0a la=2 0Nine Inch Nails, Massive Attack, and Depeche Mode a little further back." "We try to create music that allows for several layers of appreciation", explains Kenton "If we write around an odd time signature in an effort to challenge ourselves, we want to go the extra mile to make sure it still grooves for the average listener.  If there's a deep, complex message I'm trying to convey in the lyrics, I want to brand it with a catch phrase that's easily accessible to everyone.  I love studying progressive music, but you don't usually toss in your favorite Dream Theater CD while driving to the beach with a bunch of friends - somewhere along the line someone's going to drop a 16th note and ruin your groove.  I guess we're trying to bridge that gap.  We want to write music that sounds appealing to the masses, but has an inherent underlying complexity that challenges us, and makes the music worth listening to, and even studying, for those seeking more." Portal completed their first mini-tour this past February - six dates in nine nights from their hometown of Edmonton to Seattle and back. The response was none less than phenomenal. "It was a great time, and we may do it again in the future." And what does the future hold for Portal? "Short term, we're still catching up on a little infrastructure that fell by the wayside while we were recording 'Blood Red Tape' ", says Kenton. "The website(s) need a little content-boost, and there are countless promotional avenues20yet to b e unearthed.  We've got some B-sides and remix ideas in the works, too, which we'll begin exploring over the next few months, and when time and money permit, we'll probably start moving forward on some new material.  One way or another, though, Portal will continue to grow in quality and scope and continue to make music for years to come." Portal's 'Blood Red Tape' can be purchased from Amazon.com, CDBaby, iTunes and the band's official websites. For more information visit Portal Home Page.     08/12/2009

FLAMING LIPS DIGITAL THREE NEW SONGS NOW AVAILABLE
The FLAMING LIPS digital 3 song EP, "SONGS FROM THE FUTURE ALBUM EMBRYONIC" will be available at all digital retailers. Featuring these brand new tracks from the band's first studio album in over 3 years! “Convinced of The Hex”, “The Impulse” and “Silver Trembling Hands”. Full album will be available on the band's page this Fall!!!     08/12/2009

BELIEVE - ANOTHER NEW TRACK AVAILABLE ON MYSPACE
Believe’s third full-length album entitled “This Bread Is Mine” will be released by Metal Mind Productions on 31st August in Europe and 6th October in USA (via MVD). The band has just posted on their official Myspace site a full version of “Darkness”, yet another track taken from the album. “This Bread Is Mine” will be available in two versions. The standard edition will feature 11 tracks. A bonus track will be added to the digipak edition. For more about the band and album visit Metalmind Home Page.     08/12/2009

CHRIS JOHNSON, MOSTLY AUTUMN MEMBER DEBUTS NEW BAND AND NEW ALBUM 
Parade, the band formed by former Mostly Autumn member, Chris Johnson, release their debut album The Fabric on 17 August. Chris, who has most recently toured as guitarist for former Marillion frontman Fish, was a featured songwriter on Mostly Autumn's 2007 album Heart Full Of Sky, writing amongst others the songs Silver Glass and Blue Light for the band. He founded Parade to explore a dark side of his songwriting. "Some of the songs were originally intended for Mostly Autumn," explains Chris, "others started life on tour - at the back of the bus or in various hotel rooms and dressing rooms. For one reason or another everything I was writing had a pretty dark edge which I took a real charge from. I wanted the songs to be performed by a band of musicians whose playing has that energetic and intriguing quality that really excites me." Joining him on the record is fellow Fish bandmate Gavin Griffiths (Panic Room, Mostly Autumn) on drums and Anne-Marie Helder (Panic Room, Mostly Autumn) on vocals and keyboards. Long-time collaborators Simon Snaize (guitar) and Patrick Berry (bass) complete the line-up. "We started recording after the Fish tour finished at the end of last year and had some fun exploring the songs. There was a lot of experimentation; we were trying to identify the emotional core of each song and really pull it into focus. Could be with a delicate vocal, a demented guitar solo, or a backward glockenspiel smashed to bits in a modulating filter and fed out through some old TV speakers." Out of this experimentation The Fabric has emerged with a filmic quality; like the soundtrack to a movie that hasn’t been made. Elemental noise and distorted sounds emerge from the songs, framing them and shifting the mood of the album at each turn. "It is pretty dark and mysterious as we explore deep emotions like anger, loss and fear, but there's a lot of hope in there as well, and a very positive overall message." The Fabric also features Mostly Autumn’s Bryan Josh, Heather Findlay and Olivia Sparnenn. The Fabric is available from Parede Band's Site.     08/12/2009

SIGUR RÓS AND SPECIAL EDITION BOX ALBUM
In case you've not heard already, Jonsi's musical side project with Alex Somers, 'Riceboy Sleeps', is now out and selling fast. If you want to get your hot little mitts on one of the 3,500 limited edition copies of their Special Edition Box you'd better act fast, since they are close to almost gone. Buy it at Jonsi's Home Page. The Special Edition comprises not only their most lavish packaging to date, plus the original 'Riceboy Sleeps' art book, exclusive 40-page colouring book and pencils and, of course, the album itself, but also 33 minutes of additional music in the form of the three movements of the exquisite 'All Animals'. You can order the Special Edition box, CD, vinyl or download versions of 'Riceboy Sleeps' at Jonsi's Home Page, where you can also get free MP3s, full album stream, high res videos, photo galleries and downloadable versions of the boys' art, colouring and raw food recipe books.     08/12/2009

NEMESEA ANNOUNCES THEIR FIRST LIVE ALBUM
They are happy to announce that their first live album Nemesea - Pure live @ P3 will be released September 1st. This album is the result of two outstanding gigs they played in July, 2009. For those of you who buy this album before September 1st, there will be an extra CD/DVD with a lot of bonus material included when they start shipping the cd's. They are sure that you will appreciate these special recordings. Just to make you a little curious, it will contain some wonderful unreleased versions of a couple of songs, a karaoke version for you guys and girls to sing along with and much more!! So you don't want to miss this one! Pre-order this special album at band's SHOP now! The cover art and tracklisting will be revealed soon.    08/12/2009

ANDROMEDA - PLAYING OFF THE BOARD - LIVE ALBUM OUT IN AUGUST!
Get ready for a strong dose of progressive metal! Metal Mind Productions presents the first live album by one of best progressive metal bands - Andromeda. This Swedish quintet offers the fans of powerful and sublime sound compositions that are both structurally intricate and overflowing with a vast spectrum of emotions. “Playing Off The Board” includes live performance recorded at the Wyspianski Theater, Poland in Autumn 2006, when the band was promoting their most recent album at the time “Chimera”. The band’s first live release features over one hour of progressive music at its very best. Digipak edition is limited to 1000 copies. “Playing Off The Board” is scheduled for release on 24th August in Europe and 6th October in USA (via MVD). For more about visit Metal Mind Productions.     08/12/2009

DEVENTTER NEW ALBUM'S COVER REVEALED
With 11 tracks, On is expected to reach the stores in September. The new album of the Brazilian prog rock/metal band DEVENTTER, is almost finished. The recordings were completed at Creative Studios and Norcal Studios, both in São Paulo (SP), and at the moment the album is being mixed. Expected to reach the stores in September, Lead... On will bring the tracks "O.M.T"; "6000"; "Bunkers & Bankers"; "Reflected"; "All Rights Removed"; "Transcendence Inc."; "..."; "This Grace"; "Losing Track Of Time"; "Down To The Apex" and "Lead...Off". While the mixing is not done, DEVENTTER finished the front cover and the complete artwork of the new album. The responsable for the creation and whole concept of the work was the vocalist Felipe Schäffer aside the guitar duo Danilo Pilla and André Marengo. "We were always in love with bands that have artwork consistent with the sound they make", says Schäffer. "Since the first album we had the desire to seek the essence of what we created to transform it into images. In the case of the 'Lead ... on'  cover, we involved  the maximum of elements linked to the general concept of the album. The disc presents three different points of view on leadership in today's world, and we inserted these three elements into one picture." Despite the conceptual description, Schäffer prefers not to enter into details about the intriguing elements of the cover. "I prefer to leave each listener free to interpret the way he wants. As we believe in the complete set as the final work, we wanted to combine our musical experiences to the visual from the booklet. Obviously, the personal experiences of those who are listening also counts, like any art work." DEVENTTER's second album, sucessor of the high acclaimed The 7th Dimension (2007). The band has launched a "Studio-Report" of the recordings through "Qik", a new on-line tool that provides live video broadcast via Internet. To watch the "Studio-Report" with the next shootings or with the previous ones, check out: www.qik.com/deventter. The same videos are also available at the band's page on Youtube. The track "This Grace", previously titled "New Song", can also be checked through the group's Myspace page.      08/12/2009

TONY BANKS - A CURIOUS FEELING RE-MIX
Esoteric Recordings are proud to announce the release of the album “A Curious Feeling” by GENESIS founder member and keyboard player TONY BANKS on Monday October 19th 2009. This classic album, inspired by the novel “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes, was first released in October 1979 by Charisma Records. Recorded at Polar Studios in Stockholm, whilst Genesis were on a brief hiatus following the “And Then There Were Three” tour, this majestic work featured contributions from drummer CHESTER THOMPSON (a member of GENESIS for concert appearances) and vocalist KIM BEACON. Stylistically the album is equal to anything Banks composed for GENESIS and includes the instrumental “The Waters of Lethe” and the song “For a While” (also released as a single) among its highlights. Significantly, this new edition of “A Curious Feeling” has been remixed from the original master tapes by Nick Davis (who also remixed the entire GENESIS catalogue in 2007) and Tony Banks, resulting in a more dynamic sounding album. In addition, a new 5.1 Surround mix has also been prepared which is included on a limited 2 disc deluxe edition of “A Curious Feeling” along with the rare promotional videos of “For a While” and “The Waters of Lethe”. A top thirty hit album upon its release, these editions of “A Curious Feeling” are the definitive statements on the 1979 solo work by TONY BANKS and will be backed with a media campaign of interviews and features.     08/12/2009

NEKTAR MUSIC LEGENDS TO PLAY SELECT CONCERTS IN EUROPE
Hot on the heels of their new live CD 'Fortyfied', music legends Nektar will be playing several select concerts in the UK and Germany in celebration of their 40th anniversary. Nektar's contribution over the past 40 years has quite rightly earned them their place in any 'Progressive Rock Hall of Fame'. But the band is much more than a 'Prog Legend', the Nektar brand of innovative composition, performance and visuals is simply unique. Recorded on their 2008 tour of Europe, 'Fortyfied' is released on the band's own label Treaclemusic and features many beloved Nektar classics such as "Tab In The Ocean", "Recycled pt.1", "Man In The Moon" and part two of the group's classic "Remember The Future". Here's what the press are saying about Nektar's 'Fortyfied': "Love albums like Tab In the Ocean, Journey to the Center of the Eye, Remember the Future, Sounds Like This, Evolution, or Recycled? Well, there are plenty of songs from those albums included here on this 2CD set. Expect all the familiar melodies, plenty of guitar & organ freakouts (Roye just keeps getting better and better as guitar player-the guy's a real powerhouse!), and the band's mix of hard rock, prog, psycedelia, and blues is ever present. There's even a few tracks from the most recent CD Book of Days to complement the rest of the set list.  Chalk up another successful live document from Nektar, and let's hope they keep going strong for many years to come." Peter Pardo. "Kicking things off with the title track to their 1972 album "A Tab in the Ocean", it's clear that time has not sullied the potency of their music. And for the next two and half hours they take us on a journey through fifteen sparkling numbers, ranging right up to their 21st century reincarnation, with 'Remember The Future (Part II)', 'A Day in the Life of a Preacher' and my signature track 'Mr H', absolute gems. If you don't know the music of Nektar this is an excellent place to start. If you do know their music, then this is an absolutely essential release." "At times they may sound like a cross between Gentle Giant, Floyd and even Focus (particularly so on 'Recycled part 1') while the riffs on 'A Day in the Life of a Preacher' sound like Stray, but Nektar have covered a lot of ground in 4 decades. And while the later material features more use of the synth, it's the earthy organ sound and sumptuous bass runs that anchor much of the best material. There are many magical moments here, most notably on the best moments of 'Remember the Future part 1', the expansive groove of 'Dr Kool' and of course 'King of Twilight' with its Uriah Heep style organ lead. And while the newer material like 'The Debate' suggest a more precise direction on the back of some killer time signatures, the closing 'Man in the Moon' reverts to type with whispered vocals, some linear synth lines before meandering towards its climax. 'Fortified for the over forties' would have been a better title for a CD that is well worth purchasing and will surely be enjoyed by Prog rock, Psychedelic Space Rock and melodic rock fans alike." The Nektar story is a remarkable one. A British rock band that found stardom and major success in Germany and the USA, yet failed to make the significant breakthrough in their own country. With three gold albums under their belt ("Remember The Future", "Down To Earth" and "Recycled"), Nektar produced some of the most original work of the seventies and eighties. In virtuoso guitarist Roye Albrighton Nektar had a charismatic front man who had shared a stage with Jimi Hendrix, in Allan "Taff" Freeman a unique keyboard player, in Derek "Mo" Moore a bass playing powerhouse and in Ron Howden a fluidity rarely found in a drummer. Fifth member Mick Brockett was not a musician, but was responsible for one of the most stunning light and visual shows ever to grace the rock stage. Nektar's history appeared to have been written when they finally split in the eighties. Despite attempts to re-kindle the flame, the Nektar light, it seemed was out...until that is, the year 2000. The new mille nium saw the long awaited reunion tour of the classic line-up, to rave reviews and fantastic receptions. The light we thought was out, had in fact been kept aglow - by loyal fans across the globe! An American tour in September 2004 saw Taff Freeman depart the band for personal reasons and his successor, Hammond virtuoso Tom Hughes, instantly earning a place in the hearts of the Nektar faithful. With continued concert dates, along with the remastering of the remainder of the Nektar back catalogue on CD, this legendary band has become once more a proud force to be reckoned with in the world of progressive music. In 2007 Nektar truly took over their own management, procured their official website as their own, entirely under their control and went on a 22-date tour of Germany. Joining Roye and Ron was Peter Pichl on 5-string bass and Klaus Henatsch on keyboards, these two new members from the rock 'n roll city of Hanover, Germany, seemed to gel from the outset and now, along with the release of the critically acclaimed CD 'Book of Days' in 2008 and the new live DBL CD 'Fortyfied',  Nektar looks set to make its mark once again. For ticket information or how to purchase 'Fortyfied' visit Nektar's official website.     08/12/2009

DAYS BEFORE TOMORROW AT JANSPORT BATTLE OF THE BANDS
They’re trying to get a performance slot at next year’s Forecastle Festival in Kentucky and could really use our help (even if you don’t live anywhere near this festival). Please visit Sonicbids and cast your vote for Days Before Tomorrow, the entire process takes only 30 seconds. (If you don’t want JanSport to send you any SPAM, be sure to uncheck the box just below your email address.) You must click a link in an auto-reply email from JanSport to finalize your vote - look for it in your SPAM folder if it doesn’t show up in your In Box. If you vote with multiple email addresses, that helps, and you can vote every day for the next week to really help them out. Do that and they’ll definitely move on to the formal voting round. You will be making a big difference for Them.     08/12/2009

JOE GASTWIRT FINISH MASTERING NEW BANDA DO SOL ALBUM
The legendary american sound engineer has mastered albuns of Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Ramones and even Michael Jackson. The Brazilian progressive rock veteran group, BANDA DO SOL finished recording Tempo, the new album that marks the return of the band to the studios after 27 years. The album was mixed in California/USA by none other than Billy Sherwood. Also known for being YES guitarist, Billy signs an extensive discography as a producer, including albuns from bands like Motörhead, Toto, Ratt, Paul Rodgers and YES itself. Billy Sherwood also relased some solo works and two albuns with CONSPIRACY, a side-project with the YES bassist Chris Squire. Currently, Billy leads CIRCA, a new band formed by other YES heroes such us the drummer Alan White and the keyboardist Tony Kaye. Besides Billy's signature on the mixing, Tempo was mastered in USA by the legendary sound engineer Joe Gastwirt. High-level profissional, Joe Gastwirt has mastered albums from people like Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Ramones, Talking Heads, The Beach Boys, Pearl Jam, Santana, Grateful Dead, Neil Young, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Miles Davis and even Michael Jackson! "It was Billy Sherwood who introduced us to Joe Gastwirt", tells the bass player Cesinha Rodrigues. "Billy's work on the mixing was so fantastic that we also needed a great professinal behind the mastering as well. It was a big honor to have the new Banda do Sol's album mastered by Joe". Cesinha highlights the importance of the production quality in times full of home productions and low budget works. "Even if today the MP3 and audio devices compress the sound, yet it is vital that we find high-quality productions, at least for a professional band. And even more for Banda do Sol that plays progressive rock!  Tempo's quality sound is great. It could not be different with professionals like Billy Sherwood and Joe Gastwirt involved in mixing and mastering. We are very happy!" Tempo will bring the tracks "Som do Sol", "Tempo", "Prana", "Mahavishnu", "Sinal da Liberdade", "Yes Blues", "Praça da Paz", "Voar", "Quem Eu Sou?", "Fabito", "Maya" and "Janavatar". The album is expected to reach the stores between October and November. For Further Information visit Banda Do Sol Webpage.     08/12/2009

TINYFISH DVD - A PREVIEW TRACK IS UP ON YOUTUBE!
Monday, 10th August sees the release of the first DVD of British progressive rock band Tinyfish. The DVD entitled “One Night On Fire”, recorded in Katowice, Poland on the 16th of February 2009, captures the band in their element and features material from their trilogy albums (“Tinyfish”, “Curious Things” and the forthcoming “The Big Red Spark”). The DVD also includes additional video material: an interview and a 25 minute documentary, which follows the band from its birth as a studio project, through the release of the first two albums, to touring and the recording of the new album “The Big Red Spark”. Today you can have a look at a sneak preview of the DVD – the track “Nine Months On Fire” - on Metal Mind Productions’ channel on YouTube. Simon Godfrey: “Looking at the footage, it’s obvious how much we were enjoying ourselves and I clearly remember all of us feeling very relaxed and ‘in the zone’ during the show. The night also saw Rob Ramsay debut his full range of stage costumes which added a palpable sense of theatre to the proceedings. One thing that nobody noticed that night was that I played the entire gig in my socks because I had left my ‘gig’ shoes at home in the UK (Doh!). As a result, I was skidding about the stage like a Prog James Brown but thankfully it didn’t seem to affect the performance at all. Maybe I should do it more often. All in all, the DVD has captured what it feels like to be present at a Tinyfish show with all the musical excitement, passion and humour that comes with it." British fans of the band have an opportunity to see how good they are live this Saturday, 8th August, as Tinyfish will appear at Cambridge Rock Festival (CRS stage)! Don’t miss out on it! Metal Mind Productions will release “One Night On Fire” on 10th August in Europe and 11th August in USA (via MVD). The release will be available in 3 formats: DVD, limited DVD+CD edition, including bonus audio CD with songs recorded during the gig at the theater, and a limited CD digipak. For More about visit Metal Mind Productions.    08/12/2009

EDENBRIDGE AND LANVALL´S 7TH STUDIO ALBUM
Lanvall has finished songwriting for Edenbridge´s 7th studio album and they will start with the recordings in the beginning of September. The album will see a possible release in May or June 2010. Of course they have followed the symphonic way of their last album "MyEarthDream", nevertheless there are more atmospheric and melancholic vibes on the new one. The title of the album will of course not be revealed now. Furthermore they have 2 absolutely smashing hit songs, both perfect for a video clip. Some of the songs which will be on the album: BROTHERS ON DIAMIR, KYLINE´S END, ON VOYAGE VAGABOND, FURTHER AFIELD and COME UNDONE. Don´t forget to catch up with us on their upcoming headliner tour in September with their friends and special guests SERENITY. They are proud to present us their new merchandise collection right to the start of their tour in September. The great design of the new shirts was done by their homepage designer Reinhard Schmid, who was also responsible for the artwork of their actual live album "LiveEarthDream". For a limited time they have a big sale in their shop. We can find many older shirts for just € 4.99 and furthermore they can nearly offer their complete back catalogue for a lower price. Check here and you will find the new collection,       08/12/2009

SCOTT MCGILL LOOKING FOR MATERIAL FOR ARCHIVES
Scott Mcgill is looking for any visial footage (photographic or video) or audio of Scott McGill from any point in his career (The Hand Farm to the present). If you have any, please contact Scott Mcgill as he is trying to build up an archive of material. For more about visit Scott Mcgill Home Page.      08/12/2009

ORCHESTRAL MANOEUVRES IN THE DARK TO RECORD ACOUSTIC SESSION FOR ABSOLUTE RADIO
Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark will promote their special guest appearance on Simple Minds' "Graffiti Soul" UK Tour in November and December when they record and film an acoustic session for London?s Absolute Radio on Thursday 3rd September. The session will air on Absolute 105.8 FM on Thursday 17th September between 7-8pm, and on Sky Digital 0107 and DAB. The acoustic session, as well as an interview with the band, can be accessed at Absolute Radio Home Page. The Simple Minds/OMD Tour includes the following cities - Newcastle Metro FM Arena (Nov 30), Birmingham LG Arena (Dec 2), Manchester MEN Arena (Dec 3), Sheffield Arena (Dec 5), Cardiff CIA (Dec 6), London Wembley Arena (Dec 7), Glasgow SECC (Dec 11) and Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (Dec 12). For further tour info visit Nople Pr.    08/12/2009

DWEEZIL ZAPPA GETS DANGEROUS ON THE ROAD
In a joint announcement with AMD (NYSE: AMD), Dangerous Music released details of Dweezil Zappa’s road recording rig using 48-channels of Dangerous 2-Bus LT analog summing and Dangerous Monitor ST speaker controller, allowing immediate mixing of the ‘Zappa Plays Zappa’ live shows — even in a hotel room. The “Room Service Rig” consists of a PC Audio Labs computer powered by dual AMD Opteron™ quad-core processors, running Steinberg’s NUENDO DAW software along with three 2-Bus LT summing amps and Monitor ST, providing large-format analog console mixing quality on the road. “The pairing of AMD and Dangerous Music equipment has made a tremendous difference to the overall sonic detail of the final mixed music,” says Dweezil. “It’s hard to believe that I’m able to get these kinds of results from a portable mixing rig. It’s truly inspiring. Simply put, I have achieved my best mixes ever with the help of the Dangerous Music gear.” Charlie Boswell, AMD Director of Digital Media & Entertainment, noted: “Dweezil Zappa has utilized Digital Audio Workstations based on AMD Opteron processors for the past six years both in the production of his own music and most recently in the recording of live ZPZ concerts. Gail Zappa depends upon AMD powered workstations to handle the mission critical role of archiving, producing and building the catalog from the historical Frank Zappa Vault at UMRK* - with releases on Zappa Records and Vaulternative Records. This newest AMD addition to the Zappa workflow is called the ‘Room Service Rig’ because it’s sometimes operated from a hotel room after a show, or possibly on the bus in between shows. AMD collaborated with our friends over at Dangerous Music and PC Audio Labs to make the ‘Room Service Rig’ happen. Its main purpose is to provide the highest studio sonic and mobile production capability to an international touring unit like ZPZ.” Boswell also explained why the ‘The Room Service Rig’ was aptly named. “Dweezil was not interested in simply hacking together typical ‘board mixes’ of Frank Zappa classics.  He chose Dangerous Music and AMD in order to deliver studio quality mixes and mastering for the fan base. He feels the technology should not only fulfill the Zappa quality requirement but it should also adapt to spontaneity of life on the road.” Visit Charlie Boswell’s blog. Pioneered by the folks at Dangerous Music in 2001, the Dangerous 2-Bus analog-summing mixer was created to bring back the analog sound quality engineers have been craving in their digital audio environment, while maintaining the fast workflow and recall capabilities they have come to depend on. The Dangerous 2-Bus is a 16-by-2 summing device designed to help DAW users achieve better mix performance through the use of cutting-edge analog audio circuit design. As engineers and musicians themselves, the Dangerous Music team has noted that “in-the-box” mixes from DAW systems don’t equal mixes performed on high-end large-format analog recording consoles. The solution is the 2-Bus’ pristine audio path that delivers nuance, depth and clarity to a mix without any added coloration or distortion. The Dangerous 2-Bus allows the full potential of any digital audio workstation to be realized – audibly, in terms of sound quality, spatial detail and headroom, and ergonomically, through the preservation of DAW recall and automation capabilities and by the non-destructive integration of outboard analog equipment. The transparent sound of the 2-Bus allows engineers to enjoy the true colors of any chosen outboard gear without clouding the issue with the summing path. The 2-Bus is offered in two models, the original 2-rack space Dangerous 2-Bus with XLR inputs and the 1-rack space Dangerous 2-Bus LT with D-Sub inputs. The Dangerous Monitor ST is the centerpiece of the most flexible monitor control platform available. ST is a fully expandable remote control-based monitor controller and source switcher with four inputs and speaker switcher for 3-pairs of speakers and subwoofer, and includes integrated cue and talkback systems, with an onboard headphone power amplifier, all in one rack space. With the cat-5 connected remote control unit, included with the Monitor ST, engineers can configure and control an entire system from the comfort of the studio’s sweet spot. Studios working in stereo can start with the Monitor ST and later expand to surround sound control for film and TV work by adding the SR expansion unit with no equipment redundancy or obsolescence. Dangerous Music, Inc. designs and builds products that are indispensable to any DAW-based recording environment. Dangerous Music electronics designer Chris Muth has spent over 20 years working in and designing custom equipment for top recording and mastering studios. Muth and company founder Bob Muller pioneered the concept of the dedicated analog summing buss for digital audio workstations with the Dangerous 2-Bus in 2001. Today the company offers a wide range of products for recording, mastering, mixing and post-production facilities, all designed and built with mastering-quality standards and a practical aesthetic. Key products include the Dangerous 2-Bus and 2-Bus LT, Dangerous Monitor ST-SR and its Additional Switching System expansion units, Dangerous D-Box, Dangerous Master, Dangerous S&M, Dangerous Monitor and Dangerous MQ. For more information visit Dangerous Music.     08/12/2009

DREAM THEATER NEW ALBUM SOLD 40000 COPIES
DREAM THEATER's new album, "Black Clouds & Silver Linings", sold 40,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 6 on The Billboard 200 chart. DREAM THEATER's last CD, "Systematic Chaos", opened with 36000 units in 2007 to enter The Billboard 200 chart at No. 19. 2005's "Octavarium" premiered with 27000 copies to debut at No. 36. In addition to the standard-version CD, DREAM THEATER's tenth studio album, "Black Clouds & Silver Linings", was also made available on vinyl LP, as well as a three-disc, special-edition CD that includes the full album, a CD of instrumental mixes of the album and a CD of six cover songs.     08/12/2009

WOODSTOCK DIARY 1969, GETS DVD RELEASE
In Honor of the 40th Anniversary, "Woodstock Diary 1969: Friday Saturday Sunday" Gets DVD Release on September 22. MVD Visual and Wienerworld are pleased to announce the release of Woodstock Diary 1969: Friday Saturday Sunday for North American distribution on September 22, 2009. Directed and filmed by D.A. Pennebaker, and produced by Alan Douglas (who actually shot Woodstock), this is a 180-minute blast from the past. August 15th 1969 was a day that went down in popular music culture when nearly 500,000 people descended on the infamous site of Woodstock to listen to 26 now-legendary artists over a 3 day period. Woodstock Diary 1969: Friday Saturday Sunday, featuring electrifying live footage performances of many of the bands and performers who appeared, is an enthralling "fly on the wall" documentary examining the creation of Woodstock, on its fortieth anniversary and of the actual three day event itself. It contains drama, humor, and even pathos, and recaptures those heady days of the hippie movement when young people really believed that they could change the world. And yet incredibly this historic event almost never happened. A series of near-catastrophes conspired to derail the Woodstock Festival and but for the sheer perseverance and chutzpah of several key characters, the whole course of rock music could have been drastically different. Woodstock Diary 1969: Friday Saturday Sunday features appearances from The Who with 'My Generation', Janis Joplin giving a heart-stopping rendition of "Ball & Chain", Arlo Guthrie performing Dylan's "Walking Down The Line" and Tim Hardin's tender reading of his own classic song "If I Were A Carpenter". Richie Havens, Sha Na Na, Incredible String Band, Jefferson Airplane, Sly and the Family Stone, Johnny Winter, Crosby Stills & Nash, Jo Cocker, Country Joe and The Fish and Jimi Hendrix also turn in classic performances which have ensured that, while there have been subsequent attempts to imitate the event, the original electrifying Woodstock Festival has never been emulated.    08/12/2009

THE VITAL MIGHT SIGNS WITH 10T RECORDS
The Vital Might Signs with 10T Records for Release of "Red Planet", 10T Records is proud to announce the pending release of the new full length CD release by The Vital Might, entitled “Red Planet” on August 18, 2009. Charging onto the world stage from their strategic bunker in Boston (USA), The Vital Might (Rick Gauthier: bass/vocals, Andy Milk: vocals/guitar, Evan Kraker: drums/vocals) are poised to conquer, for more about please visit 10T Records Home Page.    08/12/2009

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN DVD JUKEBOX
Available on DVD - October 20, 2009 - Through MVD Visual. MVD Visual and Sexy Intellectual are pleased to announce the home viewing release of Bruce Springsteen's DVD Jukebox for North American distribution on DVD. It was more than 40 years ago that Bruce Springsteen began working as a professional musician and performer, but for over a decade prior to that he was developing his skills largely by listening, listening and listening again. He was listening to the records that not only infused his entire mind and body, but equally provided the guidance, inspiration and encouragement to achieve the extraordinary skills he has been honing to perfection in song-writing, musicianship and, some would say most crucially, performance ever since. This 150 minute film traces the artistic root of Bruce Springsteen in a manner no documentary has ever attempted before, and in so doing shows the incredible influence the likes of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Woody Guthrie, Johnny Cash, Mitch Ryder, Van Morrison, Phil Spector, Pete Seeger and numerous others have had upon his muse. The film also looks at literary, political and other influences to provide a complete picture of the most potent inspirations Bruce ever stumbled upon. Featuring rare footage of Springsteen and all of the featured artists, plus revealing archive interviews with The Boss himself, and brand new contributions from former E Street Band member Vini Lopez, Springsteen drummer Gary Mallaber, the legendary Gary (US) Bonds,  History Professor and Folk Music expert Ronal D. Cohen, English Professor and author of It Ain't No Sin to be Glad You're Alive: The Promise of Bruce Springsteen, Eric Alterman, former editor-in-chief of Rolling Stone Anthony De Curtis, British music author and  biographer of Van Morrison, Johnny Rogan and many other colleagues, writers and historians. In completion this film is both an academic look at Bruce Springsteen's artistic development and an entertaining and joyous celebration of his music and that of the artists he loved the most. EXTRAS include: Special Feature 1: Vini Loez on Bruce's very earliest influences; Special Feature 2: 'Working for The Boss' with Gary Mallaber; Illustrated Contributor Biographies and Beyond DVD Section. For more about please visit Bruce Springsteen Home Page.   08/12/2009

EDDIE JOBSON'S U-Z PROJECT 'ULTIMATE ZERO TOUR'
PROG-ROCK KEYBOARD/VIOLIN LEGEND RETURNS FROM 27-YEAR RETIREMENT TO INTRODUCE VIRTUOSO SUPERGROUP OF WORLD-RENOWNED PLAYERS ON FIRST EVER ‘SOLO’ TOUR. Brief Series of Exclusive East Coast and Midwest Summer Dates Kicks Off Aug. 17 in Washington “The word ‘genius’ is bandied about a bit too freely these days, but in Jobson’s case, the term not only applies, it’s been used to describe him since his northern England childhood.” Watch the new video for UKZ’s RADIATION at Youtube. Progressive-rock keyboard and electric violin legend EDDIE JOBSON (U.K., Roxy Music, Frank Zappa, Jethro Tull) will perform his first ever “solo” concerts in August with one of the most impressive 'player' lineups to ever grace the concert stage. EDDIE JOBSON’S U-Z PROJECT will be performing a brief series of exclusive East Coast and Midwest summer dates on the “Ultimate Zero Tour”: Washington DC (August 17 - Jammin' Java); New York (August 18 - B.B. Kings); Boston (August 19 - Regent Theatre); Philadelphia (August 20 - North Star); Cleveland (August 21 - Beachland Ballroom); and Chicago (August 22 - Martyrs'). A live concert appearance by iconic musician Eddie Jobson is a rare event. As keyboardist, electric violinist, co-founder, producer, and principal writer of 'UK' [a group he formed with drummer Bill Bruford (Yes, Genesis, King Crimson), singer/bassist John Wetton (King Crimson, Asia), and then-unknown guitar phenom Allan Holdsworth], Jobson's studio and live concert performances were described as "stunning" and "dazzling.'  The Boston Globe has called him "a music pioneer," Emmy magazine called him "a genius."  Eddie was previously well known as the teenage 'rock prodigy' with the early Roxy Music, and as Frank Zappa's right-hand-man on both keyboards and electric violin - replacing both Jean Luc Ponty and George Duke at the age of 21.  After appearing on some 60 albums with many of the rock/fusion genre's top musicians, Mr. Jobson retired from both studio and live performance for more than 20 years until a recent unannounced appearance in Russia with King Crimson. Now, Eddie has formed two new projects based on his original 'UK' concept: 'UKZ' - a five-piece contemporary rock band, currently receiving rave reviews for their "Radiation" EP and recent concert tour of Japan; and the newly-announced 'U-Z Project' - an instrumental band of extraordinary virtuosos from around the world, including Michael Jackson's former guitarist Greg Howe; stick player Michael Bernier (Stick Men); and TWO world renowned drummers, German drumming sensation Marco Minnemann (UKZ), and British drum legend Simon Phillips (Peter Gabriel, Jeff Beck, Mick Jagger, Toto). Critics raved after witnessing UKZ’s “One City World Tour” debut concert in New York last January. Calling it “an auspicious beginning indeed, Daily Variety said “Jobson's crew proved to be well stocked in both the brawn and brain departments.” JazzTimes marveled at how this “chops-heavy” band “delivered the goods” with “blistering licks and well-orchestrated bombast.” Added TimeOut New York: “UKZ fuses technical flamboyance with the postindustrial crunch of Nine Inch Nails and Tool.” Given Jobson's international reputation as a musicians' musician, and the high caliber of his previous associations and collaborations (a list that includes Frank Zappa, Ian Anderson, Robert Fripp, Phil Collins, John Entwistle, Tony Levin, Bill Bruford, Terry Bozzio, Steve Hackett, Trey Gunn, Jon Anderson, Allan Holdsworth, Adrian Belew, and many others) it is not surprising that the upcoming U.S. tour would include such an impressive lineup of players. Spotlighting Jobson's trademark Plexiglas electric violins, the 'U-Z Project' will perform rarely played music from 'UK' and other material culled from the best of the genres Jobson has helped create. More at UKZ Band Site and Eddie Jobson Home Page.    08/12/2009

ICONOCLASTS RANDOM TOUCH FIND "A WAY FROM THE HEARD" WITH NEW CD RELEASE
Algonquin, IL - Random Touch's Scott Hamill (guitars), James Day (keyboards) and Christopher Brown (drums/vocals) first collaborated in the 1970's.  Pure improvisation was one among many sound experiments.  Over time it became the preferred mode for music making. With the music of A Way From the Heard (Token Boy Records, 2009) Random Touch has arrived at a new level of expression.  Rock and symphonic music are more fully merged on much of the album, and their long developed technique of abandon is exercised with deft maturity.  The result is an unbridled expression of sound as emotion.  The colors are more vivid, the gestures wider; very little remains in the shadows. The music seems to sense that it's tim e has ripened. The trio came of age musically when Mozart's legendary improvisations were all but forgotten and when only jazz musicians and a handful of rock bands played with improvisation.  Those that did so operated within the strict confines of a song.  The trio's bliss, however, lay in the direction of pure improvisation.  Over time they have come to rely on the tools of abandon and serendipity to activate their vision.  The ripened fruit of their creative energies is the CD A Way From the Heard, their twelfth release. “Think of how string theory has posited as many as 11 dimensions; I have no doubt that one or more of these “extra” dimensions comes into play with the music of Random Touch.  We experience abundance and freedom precisely because of our access to these extra dimensions.” - Christopher Brown, drums "Autonomous music-making...Freeform by definition...Yet our performances seek just one goal: That of producing music that reaches in to your most internal thoughts and stimulates your sense of wonder.  As a group our music is individualistic, self-supporting, uncontrolled and detached.  It is music delivered with a peculiar and distinct sound, as if assembled with the power of a strong nuclear force." - James Day, keyboards. For more about please visit Random Touch Home Page.    08/12/2009

DAVID BOWIE 'SPACE ODDITY' 40TH ANNIVERSARY DIGITAL ONLY EP
40 years ago to the day that Neil Armstrong stepped on to the moon, EMI have created a unique opportunity for David Bowie fans: the chance for you to download and mix the original multi-tracks of 'Space Oddity,' which also celebrates its 40th anniversary this year! The 'Space Oddity' EP consists of four tracks. When the EP is purchased, the original eight stems/multi-tracks will be received for free, enabling fans to remix the song through their own software or through iKlax software. This is a revolutionary experience for music fans to recreate their own versions of one of popular music's most iconic songs. ABOUT SPACE ODDITY: Partly inspired after seeing Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey, which premièred in London in May 1968, Space Oddity was originally written later that year with the first known recorded version dating from February 1969, several months before its eventual release on July 11th 1969 and some time before the Apollo 11 moon landings. Space Oddity was a cultural landmark for David Bowie as an artist - it was featured by the BBC in its television coverage of the lunar landing, and the song later won an Ivor Novello award. For more details Click HERE.    08/12/2009

VETERAN ROCKERS BAND TOGETHER TO FORM CANADIAN SUPERGROUP, HARD ROAD
Bands of the 70s and 80s became part of a lifestyle, adding to the defining moments of youth, a soundtrack to our memories, and are still held close in the hearts of fans. Now, from the ashes of some of Canada's most loved and influential rocks acts of the 80s - Moxy, Santers, Killer Dwarfs and Lee Aaron - comes Hard Road, Canada's supergroup. Capitalizing on the signature styles and diverse background of each of its members, Hard Road combines the eclectic and ripping guitar riffs of Earl Johnson of Moxy, the unmistakable vocal prowess and stage antics of Russ Graham of Killer Dwarfs, the driving backbone of Santer's bassist Rick Lazaroff and the powerhouse drumming of Morgan Evans. Cyclone Records' Brad Trew says "music has evolved since the early days of these icons, shaping and molding a new, fresh sound and approach. Consider that Killer Dwarfs' last studio album was 16 years ago, Santers' last release was 23 years ago and Moxy's was 31 years ago! As a fan myself, I believe other fans will be more than satisfied to hear their idols back with a vengeance and an enthusiasm that rivals their earlier works." Each member has spent decades devoted to their love of music and have each followed their own hard roads to reach this point in their careers. Having been rehearsing and writing material since its inception in April 2008, Hard Road has just finished recording new, unreleased material as well, their live performance includes reworks of hits from their past. Watch for a new album coming in 2009! The line up consists of: Russ Graham (Killer Dwarfs, Moxy): Lead Vocals, Guitar; Earl Johnson (Moxy, King Biscuit Boy): Guitar, Vocals; Rick Lazaroff (Santers): Bass; Morgan Evans (Lee Aaron, Julliet, Killer B): Drums. What The Press Has To Say: Rockstar Weekly says Hard Road's upcoming album "Miles is like a journey back to better times' heavily influenced by the metal and hard music of the 70s and 80s' with eight solid tracks of musical bliss. Vocalist Russ Graham sounds as good as ever and brings out the urge to play an old Killer Dwarfs LP, while Moxy's Earl Johnson has produced some of the hottest guitar riffs ever laid down on Canadian soil. Fans of each member of Hard Road will hear the influences of their previous efforts, but it still comes across as a new band. Hard Road's Miles is a symbol of better times, better music and the triumphant return of Canadian rock and roll." Glory Daze says Hard Road is "a new outfit that will have your attention captured. This is one road you definitely want to be travelling in 2009!" Mitch Lafon of Brave Words and Bloody Knuckles says "Hard Road assembles the best of the best that Canadian music has to offer into a singular solid rock outfit. This fearsome foursome have put together an album that is a gift to fans desiring both that classic hard rock sound while staying fresh and modern." Renowned rock journalist/author Martin Popoff says "Hard Road is a more than synergistic gathering of a decades-straddling collection of Canadian hard rock legends. Hard Road demands attention right from the throat, strength reigning down from that powerful voice through the tough rhythmic rock enclosed. But there are extra dimensions. The tones are molten, with edgy, stone-carved drums punching through an expensive mix, while Earl?s guitar is electric and hectic, but always in a hard-hitting accessible metal context. Listen through the standard straight-eight architecture of the heavy stuff, and you?ll be rewarded with breaks of sophisticated melody but sustained classic rock heft." About Moxy: Moxy's brand of power rock and southern influence earned them a huge following in Texas where they still receive regular rotation on local stations. They have been dubbed Canada's answer to Led Zeppelin. You can read more about Moxy here. About Santers: Santers originated in the Toronto suburb of West Hill. A 3-piece made up of two Santers brothers and Rick Lazaroff. You can read more about Santers here. About Killer Dwarfs: Killer Dwarfs reached international success, largely due to the quirky stage show defined by the antics of lead singer Russ Graham. You can read more about Killer Dwarfs here. To keep up to date on the band, for more information please visit Cyclone Records.    08/12/2009

SPOCK'S BEARD'S ALBUM FOR PRE-ORDER NOW
Yes, that's right a new CD! Most of the material has already been written and they're ready to go to the next phase of tightening up arrangements, making changes where needed and starting production. They've decided to go commando on this one... lean, mean and without record label support. They have been free agents since the release of their last CD and after lots of deliberation have decided to release their next CD independently rather than re-sign with InsideOut or shop other labels. There have been a lot of great suggestions relating to this topic by the members of their forum, and the one that made a lot of sense to them was to take pre-orders for our not-yet-recorded CD similar to the approach that Marillion has taken in the past. They will organize a retail store distribution deal at some point in the future, but the initial release will be an independent limited edition offering of only 5000 CDs. This pressing will be a one-time only release, with at least one bonus track that will not exist on any subsequent pressing. By pre-ordering, you will receive our next CD one full month before it exists in any other form or is (legally) available in any other way. In other words, it won't be in stores, it won't be on iTunes, it won't be available on Amazon or anywhere else on Earth except directly from them for at least one month after the release date, and the special version that you pre-order will never be reprinted again after those first 5000 units are gone. They will also not be sending pre-release copies to the media for CD reviews because frankly they're tired of seeing their new CD available as a "free" bittorent download weeks before release date. Not sending out pre-release copies will stop this leak and guarantee that the people who pre-order their CD will be the very first people to hear it besides the people directly involved in the recording and production process. Release date depends on how quickly the CD is "financed" by pre-orders, but their initial goal is to have the CD finished and the pre-orders filled by the end of this year or early 2010. During the pre-production and recording process, they'll keep you up-to-date with the progress at Spock's Beard Home Page.     08/12/2009

GONG, THE LEGENDARY PSYCHEDELIC ROCKERS RELEASE THE STUNNING NEW STUDIO ALBUM "2032".
The album continues the mythology of the "Radio Gnome Trilogy". "2032"is released on Monday 21st September 2009 on the band's own label G-Wave, in special association with A-Wave, the label of Steve Hillage and Miquette Giraudy's successful dance music project System 7. International licensing and distribution is handled in the UK by SRD. The catalogue number is AAGWCD001. The highly anticipated new album will be supported by a UK Nationwide Tour that starts at the Bristol O2 Academy on 19th November (Ticket Hotline: 08700 603 777, www.seetickets.com). Produced and engineered by Hillage at A-Wave Studios, London, additional production was conceived by Daevid Allen at Bananamoon Observatory in NSW, Australia. Described as exhilarating, compelling and other worldly, "2032" represents the first time Hillage has recorded with original Gong founder, Daevid Allen, since 1974's "You" album. "2032" is a new installment that continues the Gong's famous 'Radio Gnome' album trilogy which includes the milestone psychedelic progressive rock albums - "Flying Teapot" (1973), "Angel's Egg" (1973), and "You" (1974). The band line-up on the album includes Daevid Allen (guitar, lead vocal), Steve Hillage (lead guitar), Gilli Smyth (Space Whisper and poetry), Miquette Giraudy (synthesiser), Mike Howlett (bass), Chris Taylor (drums), and Theo Travis (sax and flute). Special guest performances on some tracks include former Gong member Didier Malherbe (soprano sax, duduk, and flute) and Yuji Katsui (electric violin) of the Japanese progressive/ psychedelic jam band Rovo. Original Gong members Steve Hillage, Daevid Allen, Gilli Smyth and Miquette Giraudy, wrote the songs for "2032" when they were in Australia. The new album also grew out of the enthusiasm and fun the band experienced playing live together again. Together with the rest of the band, Daevid and Steve have crafted a rich and fresh sounding powerhouse of an album that is a more than worthy successor to the legendary Radio Gnome trilogy that Gong released at their creative peak in the 70s. ABOUT THE NEW ALBUM - "2032 is the year that the Planet Gong makes full contact with the Planet Earth; and a major new chapter in the continually evolving Gong mythology," says Daevid Allen. The premise of the new album is that Gong exists in our solar system as an evolved and peaceful planet operating as a unified field of high frequency matter which renders it virtually invisible to Earth. Its representatives, the Octave Doctors, first visited Earth during the late sixties when hopes were high for a shift towards world peace. Upon their return, they have opted to survey our progress and have made an offer of assistance at this decisive time in our planetary history. The year 2032 is thought to be the time when the existence of Planet Gong will be officially recognised by astronomers on Earth and will signal the first public arrival of these space visitors. A Japanese animation video will also be released "How To Stay Alive", one of the tracks featured on the forthcoming album. For more about please visit Gong Home Page.     08/12/2009

THE EXCLUSIVE RE-RELEASES OF TWO ALBUMS BY THEATRE OF TRAGEDY OUT SOON!
Theatre Of Tragedy is truly a phenomenon. Their first three releases became legendary on the doom/gothic/death metal scene, while the next two introduced a completely different musical style, bringing the group closer to industrial and electropop rather than traditional metal. Today Metal Mind Productions presents the exclusive re-releases of those two controversial albums by Theatre of Tragedy - “Musique” and “Assembly”. “Musique” was the first offering to take Theatre of Tragedy into a new direction and this exclusive re-release brings back one of the band’s most revolutionary steps ever… In the year 2000 Theatre of Tragedy decided to part ways with their past and reach towards the future by completely changing their musical direction. Released through Nuclear Blast on October 2nd, the group’s fourth LP, “Musique”, brought a  brave mixture of industrial, electropop and gothic rock. The band left their early gothic/death metal inspirations and introduced a fresh new sound, focusing on upbeat, electro-based tracks. This rather controversial style change was difficult to accept by many fans of Theatre of Tragedy’s previous albums, but eventually the new formula proved to be more than convincing. The band decided to continue their experiments with the industrial genre on their next LP – “Assembly” – which was released on March 4th, 2002. The songs were still kept in the electropop fashion, but in the same time the material seemed to be more refined and confident. Such songs as the subtle “Liquid Man”, the extremely catchy “Automatic Lover” and the brilliantly composed “Envision” (where Liv’s voice resembles… Kylie Minogue!) prove that Theatre of Tragedy were able to take the best out of mixing gothic rock with industrial and synthpop. What is more, the album featured the band’s newest member – Vegard K. Thorsen, who previously worked with the group as a session guitarist. Metal Mind Productions will re-release “Musique” and “Assembly” on 27th July in Europe and 8th September in USA (via MVD). Both titles are digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc and include bonus tracks. New digipak editions are limited to numbered 2000 copies. Bio - The group was originally formed in 1993 by Raymond István Rohonyi (vocals) and Pål Bjåstad (guitar), at first under the moniker Suffering Grief. Soon the line-up expanded to four people, after the addition of guitarist Tommy Lindal and drummer Hein Frode Hansen (who at that time quit his previous band Phobia and was looking for a new project). A bass player was still missing, but that problem was solved thanks to Eirik T. Saltrø, who offered to help out the young and promising band, only to become a regular member in the future. After finding a proper rehearsal room, the group started working on original material, now with piano arrangements by their newest member, Lorentz Aspen. The band soon composed their first song called “Lament of the Perishing Roses” and decided to change their name to La Reine Noir and then to Theatre of Tragedy. With the addition of female vocalist Liv Kristine Espenæs, the group ultimately defined their style – the death metal growling was now backed by Liv’s beautiful, melancholic voice, forming a perfect combination of melody and crushing heaviness. By 1994 Theatre of Tragedy completed their first studio demo, which caught the attention of Massacre Records and lead to the release of the self-titled debut LP in 1995. The album was very well received by both fans and critics, and soon the name Theatre of Tragedy was known on the entire gothic scene. The follow up album - “Velvet Darkness They Fear” (1996) – proved the band’s great form and was even more successful than the debut. In 1997 Theatre of Tragedy released the EP “A Rose for the Dead”, which included previously unreleased tracks from the “Velvet Darkness They Fear” session, as well as some remixes. The band’s last release for Massacre Records was “Aégis” (1998), by many fans considered the best ToT album to date. In the year 2000 Theatre of Tragedy decided to part ways with their past and reach towards the future by completely changing their musical direction. Released through Nuclear Blast on October 2nd, the group’s fourth LP, “Musique”, brought a  brave mixture of industrial, electropop and gothic rock. The band left their early gothic/death metal inspirations and introduced a fresh new sound, focusing on upbeat, electro-based tracks. This rather controversial style change was difficult to accept by many fans of Theatre of Tragedy’s previous albums, but eventually the new formula proved to be more than convincing. The band decided to continue their experiments with the industrial genre on their next LP – “Assembly” – which was released on March 4th, 2002. The songs were still kept in the electropop fashion, but in the same time the material seemed to be more refined and confident. Such songs as the subtle “Liquid Man”, the extremely catchy “Automatic Lover” and the brilliantly composed “Envision” (where Liv’s voice resembles… Kylie Minogue!) prove that Theatre of Tragedy were able to take the best out of mixing gothic rock with industrial and synthpop. What is more, the album featured the band’s newest member – Vegard K. Thorsen, who previously worked with the group as a session guitarist. In 2006 the band released one more album called “Storm”. This offering took Theatre of Tragedy back to their roots and introduced a new singer, Nell Sigland, who replaced Liv Kristine. For more about visit Metal Mind Productions.     08/12/2009

SANTANA AND THE JOURNEY FOUNDING MEMBER GREGG ROLIE RELEASES LIMITED EDITION LIVE CD HOUSTON
Santana and the Journey Founding Member Gregg Rolie Releases Limited Edition Live CD Houston, TX - Legendary Santana / Journey founding member, and Rock n Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gregg Rolie has released a limited edition CD of his band in concert in 2007. On this 12-track CD, the Gregg Rolie Band whip up a blistering performance featuring all the beloved Santana hits, as well as tracks from his 2001 critically acclaimed solo CD 'Roots' and a few new songs. Songs include "No One To Depend On", "Jingo", "Evil Ways". "Black Magic Woman", "Soul Sacrifice" and others. The final track on the CD, "Bailamos El Son", was taken from Gregg Rolie's performance on the PBS special Trini Lopez Presents The Legends of Latin Music. Filmed at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles last October, the program will be aired in June 2009. Celebrating its 40th Anniversary, this year Warner Home Video's will be releasing a Blu-ray and DVD Ultimate Collector's Edition with high definition picture and sound of 'Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music', which will also feature two hours of bonus material, some of it newly-discovered. Much to the elation of fans worldwide, extra footage of Santana's historic Woodstock performance will be included. Held at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas on March 23rd, along with Santana alumni Michael Shr ieve, Gregg resided on20a discussion panel of performers, filmakers and key technicians who helped create the timeless music classic and Oscar winning 'Best Documentary' Woodstock. Also, the Gregg Rolie band recently performed at the Hard Rock Cafe New York for the premier of the new 'Woodstock' DVD / Blue-ray release. Audience members were treated to a guest appearance by drummer Michael Shrieve during the set. "The first time I played with Gregg everything just clicked. In a humble way, it was very much like McCartney and Lennon. You know when there's chemistry there. Drummers came and went; congeros came and went, but his feeling and my feeling...sometimes it was hard to tell who was the needle and who was the thread." Carlos Santana. Gregg Rolie is responsible for co-founding two phenomenally popular, multi-platinum super groups - Santana and Journey. In 1998, the world class keyboardist/vocalist/producer was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame as part of the original Santana band. Formed in San Francisco in 1969, the multi-cultural ensemble produced three grou