Thursday, July 27, 2017

Bill Nelson's "Chance Encounters In The Garden Of Lights" 2CD Remastered & Expanded Edition With Bonus Tracks To Be Released July 28!


New remastered & expanded 2CD edition of the classic 1987 ambient double album with 21 bonus tracks drawn from the original 1988 CD edition & a rare limited edition EP

London - Esoteric Recordings' imprint Cocteau Discs, dedicated to the work of BILL NELSON, are proud to announce the release of a deluxe 2 disc digipak limited edition of the classic collection “Chance Encounters in the Garden of Lights.”

Originally issued on Bill’s Cocteau label in 1987, the double set featured two distinct works; “The Angel at the Western Window” and “The Book of Inward Conversation.” In his note for the original release Bill Nelson declared; “The music presented on these two albums marks the consolidation of several years of musical and philosophical practice. Almost every piece was conceived during moments of intense stillness or 'magical vacuity.' Of all the music I have made, this is, perhaps, the most personal and yet the least demonstrative.”

“Chance Encounters in the Garden of Lights” has now become a highly regarded collection of beautifully evocative ambient music in the prolific discography of Bill Nelson. Long out of print, this Cocteau Discs remastered limited edition presents this wonderful double album once again, restoring the original artwork in the collection in a deluxe 2CD digipack set.

It also features 21 bonus tracks drawn from the 1988 CD edition and a rare limited edition EP included with the very first LP pressing of the double album.

TRACK LIST:

DISC ONE:
THE ANGEL AT THE WESTERN WINDOW
1. WEST KEEP
2. THE SPIRIT CANNOT FAIL
3. PILOTS OF KITE
4. SEVENTH SEAL
5. PHANTOM GARDENS
6. THE ANGEL OF HEARTH AND HOME
7. VILLEFRANCHE INTERIOR
8. NIGHT TIDES
9. FIRST MEMORY
10. AZURE EXTENSION
11. RADIANT SPIRES
12. THE EVENING PEAL
13. THRENODIA
14. A SHORT DRINK FROM A CERTAIN FOUNTAIN
15. BODY OF LIGHT
16. AT THE CENTRE
17. SELF-INITIATION
18. THE WORD THAT BECAME FLESH
19. THE HERMETIC GARDEN
20. REVOLVING GLOBES
21. THE FOUR SQUARE CITADEL
22. LITTLE DAUGHTERS OF LIGHT
23. ORIENT OF MEMPHIS
24. THE ANGEL AT THE WESTERN WINDOW ADDITIONAL

BONUS TRACKS NOT ON ALBUM OR CASSETTE RELEASE:
25. THE PIANO ROOM
26. RAIN DANCE
27. ACHING HEART
28. ARISING
29. WELCOME TO REALM SEVEN
30. WITHOUT A BLUE HORIZON
31. FEMALE NEBULA
32. DEMON RAISING
33. BURNING THE GROVE OF SATYRS
34. THE STUFF THAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
35. REALM OF ARCHONS
36. THE ROSSETTI EFFECT
37. INFINITE STATION
38. PIANO ANGELICA

DISC TWO:
THE BOOK OF INWARD CONVERSATION
1. MY DARK DAEMON
2. THE DOVE CONSUMED (THE SERPENT SLUMBERS)
3. CALLING HEAVEN, CALLING HEAVEN, OVER
4. PATH OF RETURN
5. THEURGIA
6. STAIRCASE TO NO PLACE
7. EVOCATION OF A RADIANT CHILDHOOD
8. THE KINGDOM OF CONSEQUENCE
9. THE DIVINE RAPTURES OF SISTERHOOD
10. BRIGHT STAR (MOONLIGHT OVER OCEAN BLUE)
11. A BIRD OF THE AIR SHALL CARRY THY VOICE
12. CLOTHED IN LIGHT AMONGST THE STARS
13. GNOSIS
14. BRINGERS OF LIGHT TO THE FEAST
15. HASTENING THE CHARIOT OF MY HEART’S DESIRE
16. TRANSCENDENT
17. CONSOLAMENTUM ECCLESIA GNOSTICA (MUSIC FOR THE INTERIOR CHURCH)
18. SET ME UP AS A SEAL UPON THINE HEART
19. MYSTERIUM
20. KATHAROS
21. DAY OF ETERNITY
22. EVENING ADORATION
23. ECCLESIA GNOSTICA
24. YOUNG ANGELS BY AN ANCIENT RIVER
25. FINIS GLORIA MUNDI

(TRACKS 18 – 25 TAKEN FROM THE 7-INCH EP ORIGINALLY AVAILABLE WITH THE FIRST LP PRESSING OF “CHANCE ENCOUNTERS IN THE GARDEN OF LIGHTS”)

Release date July 28, 2017

For more information:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/chance-encounters-in-the-garden-of-lights-2cd-remastered-expanded-edition/

Bill Nelson's official website: http://www.billnelson.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Stick Men Feat. King Crimson Members To Tour US & Canada In Support of "Prog Noir" Studio Album & Forthcoming Double Live Album "Roppongi - Live in Tokyo 2017, Featuring Mel Collins"


In support of their their critically acclaimed studio album “Prog Noir” and forthcoming digital only live album “Roppongi - Live in Tokyo 2017, Featuring Mel Collins,” Stick Men, featuring Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto of King Crimson and Markus Reuter, will tour North America starting in August.

Says Tony, “Stick Men are happy to continue their 'Prog Noir' tour with U.S. and Canada dates in August and September. And the band has a new release, “Rapongi - Live in Tokyo 2017,” accompanied by the great King Crimson sax & flutist Mel Collins. The unique sounding band is at the peak of their abilities, helping define progressive rock.” Pat adds, “Here we come! It's the back in the van tour as our Stick Men power trio heads up the East Coast all the way into Canada and then back to touch the northern Midwest.”

To purchase Stick Men's new live “double” download album “Roppongi - Live in Tokyo 2017, Featuring Mel Collins”: 
http://www.iapetus-media.com/stick-men-roppongi (European store)
https://stickmen-moonjune.bandcamp.com/music (USA store)

Stick Men is a progressive rock band created by musicians with extensive experience playing together. Pat Mastelotto and Tony Levin are the rhythm section of the legendary band King Crimson. Mastelotto is in demand all over the world as the premier drummer for progressive rock. Levin plays in Crimson, with Peter Gabriel, and has recorded with John Lennon, David Bowie, Pink Floyd and others. Markus Reuter is a renowned composer and guitarist who designed and plays his own unique touch style guitar.

Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto, the powerhouse bass and drums of the group King Crimson for more than 2 decades, bring that tradition to all their playing. Levin plays the Chapman Stick, from which the band takes it's name. Having bass and guitar strings, the Chapman Stick functions at times like two instruments. Markus Reuter plays his 8-string touch guitar – again covering much more ground than a guitar or a bass. And Mastelotto's drumming encompasses not just the acoustic kit, but a unique electronic setup too, allowing him to add loops, samples, percussion, and more.

The result; audiences are fascinated by watching just three musicians onstage perform their unique compositions as well as wild improvisations and some cover versions of songs by King Crimson, Mike Oldfield, etc.

Before  “Roppongi - Live in Tokyo 2017, Featuring Mel Collins,” Stick Men have released 5 studio CDs (Soup, Absalom, DEEP, Open, Prog Noir) as well as two live albums.

Stick Men “Prog Noir” Chapter 4 North American Tour Dates:
Sat, Aug 12 - Schenectady, NY (The Van Dyke)
Sun, Aug 13 - Asbury Park, NJ (The Saint)
Tue, Aug 15 - New Hope, PA (Havana)
Wed, Aug 16 - Newton, NJ (Newton Theater)
Thu, Aug 17 - New York, NY (The Iridium)
Fri, Aug 18 - Pawling, NY (Daryl's House)
Sat, Aug 19 - Natick, MA (Natick Center For Arts)
Sun, Aug 20 - Portland, ME (One Longfellow Square)
Tue, Aug 22 - Northampton, MA (The Iron Horse)
Wed, Aug 23 - Burlington, VT (Higher Ground)
Thu, Aug 24 - Montreal QC, Canada (Cafe Campus)
Fri, Aug 25 - Quebec City, QC, Canada (Auditorium du Cégep Garneau)
Sat, Aug 26 - Ottawa, ON, Canada (The Rainbow)
Sun, Aug 27 - Toronto, ON, Canada (The Garrison)
Tue, Aug 29 - Buffalo, NY (The Waiting Room)
Wed, Aug 30 - Cleveland, OH (The Beachland Ballroom)
Thu, Aug 31 -  Indianapolis, IN (Irving Theater)
Fri, Sep 1 - Chicago, IL (Reggie's)
Sat, Sep 2 - Milwaukee, WI (Shank Hall)
Sun, Sep 3 - Auburn Hills, Detroit, MI (Callahan's)

The Stick Men are releasing a free digital download companion album to the limited edition promotional CD “KOLLEKTED” (Blue), which is currently available exclusively at King Crimson concerts. For this download version we've assembled some other favorites under the name “KONNEKTED” (Red), and included are also some rather odd tracks from the catalogue. Enter “0” (zero) to download for free.
Direct links for this album are:
https://stickmen.bandcamp.com/album/konnekted-free-download (European store)
https://stickmen-moonjune.bandcamp.com/album/konnekted-free-download (USA store)

To purchase Stick Men's “Prog Noir”:
https://stickmen.bandcamp.com/album/prog-noir (European store)
https://stickmen-moonjune.bandcamp.com/album/prog-noir (USA store)

Official website:
http://www.stick-men.net
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/stickmenofficial

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Friday, July 21, 2017

Concert Review: Iron Maiden and Ghost In Concert

Iron Maiden and Ghost In Concert
Xfinity Center Mansfield, Massachusetts
July 19, 2017
I can tick one off the bucket list now. I finally got my opportunity to see the iconic metal legends Iron Maiden in concert. I have been waiting for many years for this night and it was worth the wait. On a steamy July night, an over capacity crowd at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, Massachusetts reveled in their time witnessing the heavy metal giants perform. 

I have never seen that many people in sync like that, the admiration and respect was evident all night long. You would expect a raucous crowd, and I know we are all stereotyped like other groups of people, but this was an orderly crowd and when we all left there were no issues. So much for the stereotypes, you can throw them right out the window. We love our metal and our bands, and as Bruce Dickinson said, prior to a short dissertation of the world before a song, we are all “Blood Brothers.” One people enjoying each other’s company and the music.

The opening band Ghost is one I was anticipating as well. I had already purchased all their music and found their presentation onstage very theatrical. Of course, Maiden takes that element to entirely different level when they get on the stage. The music of Ghost is heavy and precise. The band’s lead singer “Papa Emeritus III” has put together a well-oiled machine, and he looks menacing as hell (no pun intended there). The “Nameless Ghouls,” the rest of the band, all have their devil masks on while the lead singer is a moving skeleton working the stage all night. The act is a tribute to the dark side and Satan. It is entertainment, an act yes, and I do not believe for a second they are worshipers of Lucifer. When you talk about being happy and prosperous as the lead singer did last night, well, worshipers of the dark master just don’t discuss such things, so there you go. The music is as awesome as I expected in a live setting. I would expect this band to continue to grow a large following and eventually be headliners.

Ghost was a superb warm up band for Maiden and I think everyone in attendance really enjoyed their music and presentation.

Iron Maiden’s stage sets the tone for their shows. With mascot Eddie and the backdrops for whatever album they are touring under, it always makes it a total multimedia event. This was the next to the last show for the incredible masterpiece The Book of Souls

All the members look to be in terrific shape physically and Bruce is still running around the stage all night long. He was totally soaked in sweat after only a few songs (as was I all night long). The energy he commands onstage is something to behold. The band has been together so long it is like watching a family joining together to celebrate what they love. You can feel the honesty in their performance. With three excellent guitarists and the phenomenal founder and bass player Steve Harris uniting them to make their way through fan favorites and the most recent recording, it really was something people in attendance will never forget.

The large video screens were amazing. The shots of the band on stage were HD quality, you could see the sweat on their arms and watch their fingers blazing away on the guitars. It made a difference for all of us in the upper sections. It was hard not to keep looking at the screen!

The one thing I did notice that was a blemish on an otherwise excellent show, was how Bruce’s mic kept cutting out last night. It happened frequently, so hopefully that is something that would be corrected by the venue or their own team on the mixing board. I am not sure where the problem was originating from.

The venue is in an off the beaten path area and by the time we made it through the incoming traffic, the only parking left was the very last lot with a 2 hour wait to get out. I learned my lesson when attending such a major event there. You should either get there when they open the lots or pay the price to park outside the venue! Fair warning to those who have not been there yet.

The inconveniences were not welcomed but dealt with in good spirits by all in attendance. And why not? We got to see phenomenal heavy metal in one evening so it was worth it. I had always watched the DVD sets over the years of Maiden and now understand the energy level and commitment of the band and their fans.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
July 20, 2017

Founder of:

Ghost Set List:
Masked Ball
(Gregorio Allegri song)
Square Hammer
From the Pinnacle to the Pit
Ritual
Cirice
Year Zero
Absolution
Mummy Dust
Monstrance Clock

Iron Maiden Set List:
    Doctor Doctor
    (UFO song)
    If Eternity Should Fail
    Speed of Light
    Wrathchild
    Children of the Damned
    Death or Glory
    The Red and the Black
    The Trooper
    Powerslave
    The Great Unknown
    The Book of Souls
    Fear of the Dark
    Iron Maiden
    Encore:
    The Number of the Beast
    Blood Brothers
    Wasted Years

Saturday, July 15, 2017

King Crimson To Tour The US Fall 2017!

(photo by Spike Mafford)

America in the Fall of 2017! The new dates see the group performing in some states and cities that have not been visited in a while. Atlanta, Georgia, for example, last had live Crimson music in 2001, while Texas has experienced something of an epic Crimson drought since 1974, not counting ProjeKct Three's week-long residency in the Lone Star state during March 1999.

Tour dates:
19 Oct Bass Concert Hall, Austin, TX - tickets
21 Oct Music Hall, Dallas, TX - tickets 
23 Oct Center Stage, Atlanta, GA - tickets 
24 Oct Center Stage, Atlanta, GA - tickets 
26 Oct Duke Energy Centre for the Performing Arts, Raleigh, NC - tickets 
28 Oct Lisner Auditorium, Washington D.C. - tickets 
29 Oct Lisner Auditorium, Washington D.C. - tickets
31 Oct New Jersey Performing Arts Centre, Newark, NJ - tickets 
02 Nov Merriam Theatre, Philadelphia, PA - tickets 
03 Nov Merriam Theatre, Philadelphia. PA - tickets 
06 Nov Orpheum Theatre, Boston, MA - tickets 
08 Nov The Egg, Albany, NY - tickets 
09 Nov The Egg, Albany, NY - tickets 
11 Nov Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown, PA - tickets 
17 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY - tickets
18 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY - tickets 
22 Nov Michigan Theatre, Ann Arbor, MI - tickets 
24 Nov Hard Rock Rocksino, Cleveland, OH - tickets
26 Nov Riverside Theatre, Milwaukee, WI - tickets

For more ticket information: https://www.dgmlive.com/tours?liveshow=on

With three drummers up front including Pat Mastelotto, Gavin Harrison and Jeremy Stacey, as well as the return of multi-instrumentalist Bill Reiflin on keyboards, guitarist, and original founding member, Robert Fripp, states that this “double quartet formation” is likely to make more noise than ever before. Rounding out the eight piece line up are guitarist and vocalist Jakko Jakszyk, long-time bassist Tony Levin, and saxophonist Mel Collins, who was a mainstay of Crim from 1970-1972.

As well as standard tickets, the band's label, DGM, also has announced sale of VIP Royal Packages, limited to just 60 per show. Details can be viewed at the label's interactive and recently redeveloped website, www.dgmlive.com.

Here's what the press have raved about King Crimson's summer 2017 North American tour:

“On our final evening at the festival, we were witness to the concert that inevitably proved to be its highlight...The blend of mood, melody, ambiance and atmosphere dazzled the audience, which responded with frequent standing ovations.” - Lee Zimmerman, Goldmine Magazine

“Complex musical structures, the power, the intensity and the flight of guitars, flutes and especially drums, the progressive rock of King Crimson unfolded like never...With a dense and complex performance that perfectly coincided with the title of the tour entitled Radical Action, King Crimson took over all the years of his long career, offered new material and transported the music lovers to their rich universe and especially without compromise.” -  YVES LECLERC, Journal de Quebec

“Fripp and his band offered an impeccable performance in two stages. No melodies, no flapping, only musicians at the top of their art.” - IAN BUSSIÈRES La Presse, Quebec

“The band finally reaps all that it has sown in its many transformations...the company of the good old days got its money's worth! In short, the king is not dead, far from it, and they still rejoice.” - Réjean Beaucage, Voir.ca

There was an undeniable nostalgic thrill to these songs, but considering the unconventional setup and the band's longstanding aversion to living in the past, they weren't presented as museum pieces...this remained a celebration from a band that has found a way to honour the scope of its legacy without abandoning its avant-garde principles. Crimson has never sounded more complete, or more joyous, on stage than it does now.” -  Jordan Zivitz, Montreal Gazette

“The eclectic setlist covered the bands forty plus years, beginning with 1973's 'Larks' Tongues in Aspic, Part One' earmarked by one of several Mel Collins' exemplary solos, then jumped a decade later for the fluid 'Neurotica' with Fripp’s hyper-kinetic guitar riffs perched alongside a dizzying high tempo jazz beat. The uniqueness of seeing each of these seasoned musicians working is near indescribable and has to be experienced live, to fully embrace their vision - think of eight master painters working in their own style, but on a common canvas, and you begin to get the idea of things.” - We Heart Music, Minneapolis

“As part of their 17-show 'Radical Action Tour 2017,' King Crimson made a stop at the Greek Theatre for what can only be succinctly described as nearly three hours of absolute musical bliss — subtle and pastoral on one hand, a cacophony of sonic thrusts on the other.” - Shawn Perry Vintage Rock

“While their strong EP of new originals 'Heroes,' (in tribute to David Bowie) has devoted fans pleased and open-eared, it's the rarities from the back catalog that haven’t been played in decades or ever that make this tour's lineup exceptionally strong. Astounding as it was, King Crimson still has the propensity to tackle songs from all over their vast catalog, while incessantly adding new intersections and elements.” - Dylan Muhlberg, Grateful Web

In other news:

The band has recently released “The Elements Of King Crimson 2017 Tour Box.” As with previous releases in the “Elements” series, the full variety of King Crimson's music is presented over 2 CDs! Featuring extracts from rehearsals, new live recordings, elements from studio recordings, full tracks, alternate takes and finished recordings from 1969-2016, many of which make their first appearance on CD.

Every line-up is featured across the double CD set. Of particular interest on the new set is the inclusion on disc 2 of every part of “Larks' Tongues in Aspic” (some studio, some live) from “Part I” to “Level 5” – interspersed with elements taken from the original studio sessions and rehearsals.

Packaged in a DVD-sized fold out digipak style book case with a 24 page booklet including sleeve notes by co-compiler Sid Smith, photos of memorabilia, full info about the 2016 tour and a number of band and individual photos of the current band line-up. http://shop.schizoidshop.com/the-elements-of-king-crimson---2017-tour-box-p1670.aspx

Also, coinciding with the first leg of the tour, King Crimson released a CD EP titled “Heroes - Live In Europe, 2016.” Recorded in Berlin during the band's 2016 European tour., the EP was released on June 2nd 2017 and, along with “The Elements Of King Crimson 2017 Tour Box,” can be ordered via the shops at www.dgmlive.com as well as available through traditional retail outlets. The US based Schizoid Shop has recently added a range of new shirts and other band-related merchandise, and offers weekly specials including offers to win free tour tees. www.schizoidshop.com.

For more information: www.dgmlive.com



Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Progressive Rock Review: Ghostly Beard- Infinite

Release Date: July 14, 2017
Label: 2017 Patrick Talbot

Ghostly Beard is the name of this one-man band created by one Mr. Patrick Talbot. The beauty of his first EP Infinite is the fact it was just him in the creative and recording process. I am sure any artist brimming with creativity and flowing with an endless energy would appreciate the singularity of purpose. This creation is his and his alone, there was nobody there to bounce off ideas or disagree or play something differently. What a beautiful thing, complete musical freedom, or should I say Infinite freedom?

These five tracks are meant to set the table of what is to come. Talbot has much more to share with us hungry prog heads waiting to absorb another helping of the musical virtuosity he can deliver.

The very first track “Close Your Eyes” I found to be very Floydesque, in fact after looking at his bio I see they refer to his guitar playing as very Gilmore like. Not something that is hard to pick out if you are a fan of prog or Pink Floyd, which to me would be virtually one in the same in many respects.

Every track features dreamy soundscapes, razor sharp guitar lines and vocals that are a perfect fit for the tracks. He maintains a steady inflection, neither going up or down - another notch down it would almost be melancholy at times. Yet his voice is very pleasant and just right for the musical meal he serves up.

Each track can stand on its own and the curtain closer is an instrumental fluffy cloud ride into the sunset. Fluffy in a hypnotic and light way that has you wondering why it all just ended. Keep in mind this and EP, a teaser.  The scope and breadth of what is to come will surely be amazing. Count me in Patrick, I want to hear it all!

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
July 11, 2017
Founder of:

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk 

Tracks: 
1. Close Your Eyes
2. Frozen in Time
3. No Return
4. Limitless
5. Winter Dance



Monday, July 10, 2017

Frontman From Progressive Rock Band Mars Hollow Announces New Album, New Line-up, and New Name - Life After Mars


Progressive rock band Mars Hollow has announced that they will be recording a new album after a nearly 5-year hiatus. The announcement was made during a semi-reunion show and subsequent radio interview in June, and came on the heels of a show billed as “John Baker and Steve Mauk Perform the Music of Mars Hollow” in Chicago. The show was the first time Mars Hollow has performed live since May, 2012. The most recent studio effort from the group was the track “So Far Away,” which also had a video release and was included on the Mars Hollow Live album. The album, also available on DVD, documented the band's 'Church of Prog' spot at RosFest, 2011 and was released in Fall of 2012.

However, guitarist and lead vocalist John Baker says that the new band will update both its name and line-up to fit the spirit and music of the new incarnation, and will be called “Life After Mars.” The band's debut album release is tentatively scheduled for Summer, 2018.

Says John, “As Life After Mars is the newly reformed incarnation of Mars Hollow, the best way to explain it is 'Mars Hollow…the Next Generation.”

Mars Hollow landed on the progressive rock scene in 2010 with their self-titled debut album, produced by Ronan Chris Murphy, and followed up in 2011 with “World In Front of Me,” co-produced by Mars Hollow's John Baker and Billy Sherwood, now of Yes. Playing festivals and numerous gigs in the USA, Mexico and Canada, the band also played and toured with Billy Sherwood's Circa, and received accolades and positive reviews for several years.  In the spirit of progressive rock, “Life After Mars” seems a natural progression.

Says John, “I think of this as good timing. A perfect time to rethink your mindset, and have a new jumping off point. At one time, walking on the moon, or landing on Mars was the future. Everyone wondered if there was life on mars, and now they are talking about colonization of Mars. Truly, the FUTURE is life AFTER mars.”



Life After Mars features:
John Baker – lead vocals and guitars
Don Schiff – NS stick, various basses and string instruments
Lisa LaRue – keyboards
Emily Dolan Davies – drums

Bios:
JOHN BAKER
Throughout the years, John Baker has held stints as guitarist and backing vocalist for various original bands and musicians, including Christian Love of “The Beach Boys” and bassist for The Little Girls. Since 1995, John has been operating a successful studio business, comprised of music projects, audio drama, and dialogue work. In the music field, John has worked with many musicians and producers, including Mick Taylor (Rolling Stones) and Richie Zito (Elton John, Tina Turner, Heart). In the dialogue field, John has directed, engineered, and edited hundreds of audio books including works by authors such as Robert Ludlum, Danielle Steele and Deepak Chopra. John Baker, an original member of Mars Hollow, is also the lead vocalist for the LA-based progressive rock band, Forever Twelve, who has just completed their 4th studio album, Home, on Melodic Revolution Records.

DON SCHIFF
Don Schiff has worked with some of the best - including Elvis Presley, Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, Sheryl Crow, Sammy Davis, Arjen Lucassen among many others. Don is also a member of Rocket Scientists. Having scored soundtracks as well as acted in TV shows and films such as “Live From Death Row” and “84 Charlie Mopic,” he has also received gold records for co-writing for Pat Benatar's “Wide Awake in Dreamland” and Winfield/Schiff's “Cerebral Man.” Don is internationally known for his expertise with the NS/Chapman stick. He was also a member of Lisa LaRue's former band 2KX.

LISA LaRUE
Keyboardist Lisa LaRue has worked with many musicians including: John Payne (Asia), Don Schiff (Rocket Scientists, Tina Turner, Elvis, and more), Ryo Okumoto (Spock's Beard), Michael Sadler (Saga), Oliver Wakeman (Yes). Esquire (Nikki Squire) and others. Lisa has been awarded Oklahoma Native American Artist of the Year and nominated for other awards including the Hollywood Music Awards, Los Angeles Music Awards, and the Native American Music Awards. She collaborated with Gilli Smyth of Gong on a self-released album titled “Dreamscapes,” and has released 5 solo albums, 1 album with Lisa LaRue Project 2K9, 2 albums with Lisa LaRue 2KX, and 1 album with Federico Fantacone (Fantacone/LaRue – Sonic Landscapes).

EMILY DOLAN DAVIES
Emily Dolan Davies is a British drummer who has been playing since age 11, with full time gigging beginning at age 18. She has extensive experience in many genres as a session and live drummer, in addition to playing with artists such as Bryan Ferry, The Thompson Twins, The Darkness, and many more. She is currently touring with Howard Jones.

Here's what the press have said about Mars Hollow:

“It's quite clear that Mars Hollow is a band to be reckoned with. This is no garage band, but a very serious group of players with some serious chops.” - Rok Podgrajšek - The Rocktologist 

“If you take a little bit of Yes - mostly in John Baker's vocals - and a little bit of Rush (also there in the vocals), that's a bit what Mars Hollow sound like.” - Stephanie Sollow - ProgressiveWorld.net 

“Each member of the quartet is a star player in his own right. Their sound is a rocking and melodic mix of the best of Yes & Genesis with a bit of latter-day King Crimson.” - Mike Flavin - USA Prog Music 

“I would consider Mars Hollow to be a band that will withstand the test of time for the advancement of the progressive genre.” - Grant Hill - Music Street Journal 

For further details and to watch the project progress, please follow the Life After Mars Fan Page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/lifeaftermarsmusic or www.lifeaftermarsmusic.com ;

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Sunday, July 9, 2017

French Music Legends Magma's Critically Acclaimed 1975 "Magma Live" Album Remastered With Bonus Tracks


Remastered 2-CD In DigiPack - contains Booklet with text & lyrics – original recordings & bonus tracks

Paris - Much to the excitement of Magma fans worldwide, the band's critically acclaimed 1975 live album “Magma Live” has been remastered and contains two bonus tracks not on the original release! After the departure in autumn 1974 of Jannick Top and most of the other members of the band, Magma rose phoenix-like from the ashes with a new hot line-up, which saw the musical opportunity lying before it. After long rehearsals Christian Vander realized that he had yet another exceptional group and the decision was taken to records the first Magma live album. The recording, made in June 1975 at the Taverne de l'Olympia, perfectly demonstrates the incredible impact made by Magma. Absolutely dedicated to the music of Christian Vander, who by that time had reached the summit of his art, the band plays as if they were one man and sweeps all before it in its triumphant passage.

Whether it was a new arrangement of any old pieces (KOHNTARK, KOBAH, MEKANIK), or a previously unheard piece (HHAI, LIHNS), the sound of Magma has never been heard more powerfully as on this incredible recording. Although it remains difficult to point any one performance as being outstanding, it would never-the-less be difficult not to react to the mind-blowing performance by Didier Lockwood, whose violin playing contributes so greatly to the profound originality of this magnificent double album!

ZUND 1:
1 - KOHNTARK part 1 (original mix 1975)
2 - KOHNTARK part 2 (original mix 1975)
3 - EMEHNTEHTT-RE  announcement (alternative mix 1989)**

ZUND 2:
1 - HHAI (original mix 1975)
2 - KOBAH (original mix 1975)
3 - LIHNS (original mix 1975)
4 - DA ZEUHL WORTZ MEKANIK (alternative mix 1989)**
5 - MEKANIK ZAIN (original mix 1975)

Christian VANDER - drums, vocal
Klaus BLASQUIZ - vocal
Stella VANDER - vocal
Bernard PAGANOTTI - bass
Gabriel FEDEROW - guitar
Didier LOCKWOOD - violin
Benoit WIDEMANN - keyboards
Jean-Pol ASSELINE - keyboards

Recorded live between June 1st and June 5th 1975 at la TAVERNE DE L'OLYMPIA by Frank OWENS. Mixed by Georges CHKIANZ at studio le Chateau except **Mixé au studio UNIWERIA ZEKT par Francis LINON et Christian VANDER.  Mastering Southeastern lab, Fierce mountain, NC

To purchase: http://www.seventhrecords.com/en/magma-19/magma-live-remastered-new-presentation-64.html

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Saturday, July 1, 2017

ELP Legend Greg Lake's Eagerly Awaited Autobiography "Lucky Man" Now Available In The UK!


London - Greg Lake first won acclaim as lead vocalist, bass guitarist and producer when, together with Robert Fripp, he formed King Crimson. Their first album, the landmark In the Court of the Crimson King, co-produced by Greg, featured the iconic song “21st Century Schizoid Man.” King Crimson pioneered progressive rock and paved the way for many famous bands that followed, from Yes and Genesis to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

In December 1969 Greg met fellow legend Keith Emerson at the Fillmore in San Francisco during a North American tour; the two shared common bonds: European musical influences and a desire to reinterpret classical works while creating a new musical genre. After being introduced to drummer Carl Palmer, they formed the first progressive rock supergroup Emerson, Lake and Palmer.

To date ELP has sold over 50 million records. Lake produced “Emerson, Lake & Palmer,” “Tarkus,” “Pictures at an Exhibition,” “Trilogy,” “Brain Salad Surgery,” “Works Vol. 1 & 2,” and two different live albums. All went platinum and featured a series of hit singles, most written and all sung by Lake. The three created a unique live theatrical performance which featured Emerson attacking his keyboards with knives, Palmer playing a 2.5 ton stainless steel kit and Lake performing on a £6,000 Persian rug which had its own roadie. One of their very first performances was at the historic Isle of Wight Festival in 1970 and they went on to headline California Jam, one of the biggest concerts of the 1970s, attended by 350,000 people.

Probably the voice of his generation, Greg fronted the greatest rock supergroup of the 1970s but never held with the “progressive” tag that attached itself to both the music and the excess. “Lucky Man” not only charts the highs and lows of a career in rock music but also reflects on the death of Keith Emerson last year, living with terminal cancer and the end of life. Greg can best be summed up by his now-famous line: “Material wealth is a very fleeting pleasure ... when you can buy anything you want and do anything you want, you soon discover that you actually don't want any of it.”

To purchase Greg Lake's “Lucky Man” autobiography: http://amzn.to/2t8BwZy

Watch the promotional video: https://www.facebook.com/GregLakeOfficial/videos/1691998314174403/

For more information:
Little, Brown Book Group Limited, Carmelite House, 50 Victoria Embankment, London EC4Y 0DZ, 020 3122 6000. A member of Hachette UK Group, registered in England and Wales under company no. 2304585
Click here for company information http://www.littlebrown.co.uk  or here www.hachette.co.uk/information/email disclaimer page

Greg Lake's official website: http://greglake.com/
Greg Lake's official FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/GregLakeOfficial/

Greg Lake press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Spain's Progressive Rock Legends Kotebel To Release Highly Anticipated New CD "Cosmology"


Spanish prog legends Kotebel have released their 7th studio album titled “Cosmology.” It is their first studio album since the release in 2012 of their acclaimed “Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble” (in the list of 100 All-time best symphonic albums in Progarchives and “Best Instrumental Album” in the 12th edition of the Independent Music Awards).

The band's new album features, among other tracks, the “Cosmology Suite”; An ambitious work comprised of four pieces that represent different conceptions of the Cosmos.

“Cosmology” marks the return of the flute into their soundscape, by the masterful hands of virtuoso Omar Acosta. It also presents the debut of Adriana Plaza as a composer for Kotebel.

To watch a visual taste of “Cosmology”:


Here's what the press has said about Kotebel:

“This is simply a stunning tour-de-force of impeccable musicianship, clever arrangements, and well-composed instrumental progressive rock” (Piano Concerto – ProgArchives)

“This is an instant classic cd for me that already enjoy instrumental music, this band don't stop to amaze me with the quality of their music.” (Piano Concerto – ProgArchives)

“Crossing genres so seamlessly, effortlessly is what makes this album, IMO, a sure fire masterpiece of progressive rock music. Well done Kotebel! This will be a tough album to beat for 2012 Album of the Year!” (Piano Concerto – ProgArchives)

“This is one stellar disc of symphonic progressive rock!” - Jerry Lucky – The Progressive Rock Files

“This is a masterwork!” - Vitaly Menshikov – Progressor

“Outstanding symphonic prog!” - César Inca – Progarchives

“One of the great contemporary prog rock bands!” - Nuno – Prognosis

“Kotebel appear to be content on exploring and extending the boundaries of their chosen genre, and are definitely a band to watch out for.” - Dave Sissons – DPRP.net

“The musicianship is top-notch!” - Yves Dube – Sea of Tranquility



Watch Kotebel’s interpretation of the “A Bao a Qu” story, as narrated by Jorge Luis Borges in his “Book of Imaginary Beings”: 



Kotebel's line-up for “Cosmology”:
Carlos Franco Vivas – drums and percussion
César Garcia Forero – guitars
Jaime Pascual Summers – bass
Adriana Nathalie Plaza Engelke – piano, keyboards
Carlos G. Plaza Vegas – keyboards

Very special guest: Omar Acosta - flute

To order Kotebel’s Cosmology, and listen to selected fragments, visit:
http://www.kotebel.com/e-store/cosmology.php

For more information: www.kotebel.com

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com