Prog Rock Review: RTFACT-Life Is Good

Release Date: CD Release Date - September 30, 2017/LP Release Date - November 23, 2017

Label: AFL Music

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It is a beautiful thing this progressive rock, and what some artists are releasing these days is amazing. The prog community is very special to this music fan. When you get a chance to hear a project with a overabundance of artists joining forces to record an album it is even more exciting and special.

So now we have RTFACT with their album Life Is Good. This band is fresh from their recording sessions and ready to get this music out to the masses ASAP!

Life Is Good is a boundless combination of prog and classic rock. One of the great things about this album besides all of stellar musicianship, are the vocals of Jeff Scott Soto. He is an outstanding vocalist and I believe underrated by people in the music business. The people that really count, the listeners, know who he is and his capabilities.

Nad Sylvan provides vocals as well and notably Oz Noy rips off a few stellar guitar lines to polish and perfect the experience.  So, what you get is a few of the more recognizable names in the industry joining forces with names you may have been ever exposed to. What does this tell me? There is a lot of unfound talent out there to be discovered and am I ever glad I discovered this band. Thanks go out to Yuri Volodarsky,of AFL Music for making this opportunity possible.

These players know how to have some fun as well. After the superb “(I Got) Money In My Pocket” and “Hail To The Winner Part I” then comes the entertaining instrumental “Hail To The Winner Part II Tarantella.” It starts off like a soundtrack to one of the old 60s TV Shows like Mr. Ed for instance. Then it launches into a full-on rock attack with scorching leads from the six-string. After that workout a true to form prog rock approach is taken, with all the quick changes that blow your mind on “Gotika.” Again, my interest peaked and I was compelled to turn up the volume. It was like listening to ELP on steroids. This is prog rock at its very best as far as I am concerned.

I think the description of the band on the Bandcamp website paints the proper picture of what this music is with the following statement:

An archaeological trove of musical nuggets, with soaring vocals, Hammond B3 wizardry, muscular guitar solos, and a supple rhythm section that grooves as hard as it rocks.

It so true! Usually these statements are a blown out of proportion, a gaggle of words, but in the case every bit of it is right as rain. This is a great sound from start to finish with crankin’ guitar solos, pumping organ and synth parts, and a killer rhythm section. It all comes together to create a prog rock masterpiece. “Life Is Good (Remix)” calls it day with a very Yes like sound and layered vocals. A fitting touch for the closer with a wink and nod to an outstanding musical journey to prog nirvana.

Yes, indeed Life Is Good thanks to prog rock.

Tracks:
1. Life Is Good
2. Artifact
3. (I Got) Money In My Pocket
4. Hail To The Winner. Part I
5. Hail To The Winner. Part II. Tarantella
6. Gotika
7. The King, The Master, And The Timekeeper
8. Hollywood Walk Of Fame
9. Life Is Good (Remix)
 

Line Up:

Jeff Scott Soto - vocals

Nad Sylvan - vocals

Will Champlin - vocals

Oz Noy - solo guitar

Jeff Kollman - solo guitar

Rafael Moreira - guitar

Josh Smith - guitar

Gary Meek - flute, sax

Edward Tsiselsky - keyboards

Dmitry Ilugdin - synthesizers

Eugene Sharikov - bass

Joel Taylor – drums

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

October 31, 2017

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Concert Review: The Airplane Family and Friends With Live Dead '69

The Airplane Family and Friends With Live Dead ‘69

 Concert At The Colonial Theater

Pittsfield, Mass

October 27, 2017

https://www.facebook.com/theairplanefamily

If you are an individual that appreciates nostalgia and great music then you would have loved the show presented last night at the Colonial Theater in Pittsfield, MA.

I have always loved looking at the past and certainly reflecting upon it when I hear music from the 60’s. It is all about the music my older brother and sister used to be playing on the record players (yes records, they are back in a big way now) and listening to the hits on AM Radio.

I had one thing in mind for the concert I was about to witness, I thought it was one band. The Airplane Family & Friends with Live Dead ’69 is three shows!

This is the third version of the band from what I have gleaned and it is comprised of the following musicians: Tom Constanten (keyboards), Slick Aguilar (guitar, vocals), Mark Karan (guitar, vocals), Mike Falzarano (guitar vocals), Robin Sylvester (bass), Johnny Markowski (drums) then Robyn Cage and Joli Valenti singing the parts of Grace Slick and Marty Balin respectively.

The night consisted of each musician taking the lead and or singing then leaving and entering again. No warm up band was needed as they played a solid 2.5 hours with a short break in the middle. And a lot of the time they just went from one jam right into another. Sometimes you would hear some familiar riffs tucked in between the jams, like things from Bowie or Jeff Beck for instance. It was instantly recognizable for this listener that is for sure.
 

So first up was music of The New Riders of the Purple Sage. Their country infused blues rock boogie was superb. And the one song I remember the most was “Panama Red.” And just so you know, they did play it! Then after that was finished we got a good dose of The Grateful Dead. This was the most interesting and enjoyable part of the presentation. Although I felt the entire evening was outstanding, this was something special. The Dead’s songs are complex and ever changing, built for long jams and improvisation. And to top it off there were some folks dressed in Woodstock era clothing and many were dancing, twirling and doing Tai Chi like movements. That was the sideshow but the serious entertainment was on stage.

Then we had a short break and The Airplane group came out, with a few different faces. Robyn Cagecame out to the stage not looking anything like Grace Slick but man did she belt out a song like Grace. She had it down perfect. Joli Valenti was introduced as well.

There was so much to enjoy in this evening, I found it hard to organize all the thoughts running through my head. So, what we all enjoyed was a triple bill of timeless music that was presented with professionalism and class. The musicianship was beyond compare. For those of you that love this music and missed this show, I feel for you because it was just about as close to the real deal as it gets.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

October 29, 2017

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Drum Legend Simon Phillips To Release "Protocol 4" October 27, 2017!

Drum legend & producer extraordinaire Simon Phillips will be releasing “Protocol 4” on October 27th on Phantom Recordings, distributed by AMPED™. Simon Phillips is by far one of the world's most renowned and respected drummers, whose style not only reflects his technical gift but also his distinct musical sensibility. Whether it is Rock, Fusion, Jazz or World, Simon applies the same precision and intensity to his drumming, which is never lacking in emotion and feel.

Simon has upped the ante with his newest instrumental recording “Protocol 4.” Building on his past Protocol projects, Simon has again enlisted the highly talented bassist Ernest Tibbs along with Protocol newcomers, the superb veteran guitar shredder Greg Howe and keyboard virtuoso Dennis Hamm. All compositions were written by Simon while on tour.

“The first time I've really been able to concentrate on writing material on the road. Lots of creativity on airplanes and in hotel and backstage dressing rooms,” says Phillips. Perhaps the vibe and energy of touring accounts for the slightly more “metallic edge” to this new album. But, as is always the case, Simon's music defies specific labels as he fuses elements of rock, jazz, funk, classical and even world music into the mix. A case in point being the track “Celtic Run” combining a Celtic rhythmic motif with blazing guitar and synthesizer leads all held together with Phillips signature ultra-tight drumming and Tibbs ever solid bass work. “Passage to Agra” is a rhythmic musical excursion to an exotic foreign land. The tracks “Pentangle” and “Solitaire” both contain some super funky grooves underlying jaw dropping metallic jazz/rock soloing. Greg Howe's guitar work shines throughout the recording, perhaps no more so than the plaintive and anthem-like track “Phantom Voyage.” Dennis Hamm's keyboard work is stunning on each and every track, whether he's soloing or adding lush orchestration. The album concludes with the monster high energy fusion track “Azorez.”

In addition to awesome musicianship, Simon's impeccable production and recording technique shine once more on this album. “Protocol 4” is certain to please longstanding Simon Phillips aficionados and is certain to also bring new Protocol fans into the fold.



Bios

Simon Phillips (Drums) - To date Simon Phillips has toured and recorded with many bands and artists, including: Mick Jagger, The Who, Jeff Beck, Jack Bruce, Peter Gabriel, Joe Satriani, Tears for Fears, Judas Priest, Roxy Music, Michael Schenker, Nik Kershaw, Al DiMeola, 801, Pete Townshend, Robert Palmer, Mike Oldfield, Stanley Clarke, The Pretenders, Whitesnake and Dave Gilmore... to name but a few. Expanding his career from drumming to composing, Simon recorded his first solo album “Protocol” in 1988, followed by a live album, “Force Majeure,” in 1992. During that year he joined Toto on their Kingdom Of Desire tour of the World, the start of a 21 year collaboration. He recorded his third solo album, “Symbiosis,” in 1995 and “Another Lifetime” in 1997. “Out of the Blue,” a live album, followed in 1998 and in 1999 he released “Vantage Point,” which is a pure, straight ahead jazz album in collaboration with pianist Jeff Babko. Yet another expansion to Simon's musical career is producing and engineering, which he first started back in England with British composer Mike Oldfield, working on three albums with him. Aside from his solo projects, Simon also co-produced several albums by Toto. In 2009 he formed PSP with Philippe Saisse and Pino Palladino. A live CD and an EP was produced and tours of Europe and Japan in 2011 & 2012.  In 2010 he joined Michael Schenker for a short tour of Japan and performed with Trilok Gurtu and the NDR Big Band for an amazing project resulting in the “21 Spices” CD. That year Simon was approached by Japanese virtuoso pianist Hiromi to form “The Trio Project” together with bass legend Anthony Jackson. The trio has recorded four CDs: “Voice,” “Move,” “Alive” and “Spark” and has been touring throughout the World the past 6 years. 25 years after his first solo recording, Simon released “Protocol II” featuring Andy Timmons (Guitar), Steve Weingart (Keys) and Ernest Tibbs (Bass). The band, under the name of “Protocol II,” toured in Europe, the US and Japan. At the beginning of 2014 “Protocol III” was recorded and tours of Europe, Japan and the US followed. And now much to the excitement of Simon Phillips fans worldwide, the new CD, “Protocol 4,” will be released on October 27th!

Ernest Tibbs (Bass) – Ernest has worked with Natalie Cole, Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight (musical Madam Lilly), James Ingram, Melba Moore, Eloise Laws, and Debra Laws. Ernest has also toured and/or performed with Allan Holdsworth, Simon Phillips, Dean Brown, Harvey Mason, Scott Henderson, Andy Summers, Jeff Richman, Thom Rotella, David Benoit, David Garfield, Phil Upchurch, Dan Segal, Tom Scott, Eric Marienthal, Brian Auger, Ronnie Laws, Jeff Lorber, Gregg Karukas, Kevin Toney, Pat Kelley, Lee Ritenour, John Pisano, Brian Bromberg, Brandon Fields, Norman Brown, Russian Pop Star Alsou, as well as symphony orchestras in San Francisco, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

Greg Howe (Guitar) - Greg has collaborated with artists such as Dennis Chambers, Victor Wooten, Richie Kotzen, Jason Becker, Billy Sheehan, Stu Hamm, Simon Phillips, Marco Minneman, John Wetton, Dave Weckl, Bernie Worrell, Gregg Rolie, Eddie Jobson, and many others. He's also made a name for himself as a stellar sideman and session musician with artists like Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Rihanna, Enrique Iglesias, and many more. Greg Howe endorses: DV Mark Amps, Kiesel Guitars, D'Addario Strings, Seymour Duncan Pickups, and Carl Martin Pedals.

Dennis Hamm (Keyboards) - Currently he can be seen on tour around the world performing with Thundercat (Stephen Bruner), Flying Lotus (Captain Murphy), Larry Carlton, Jonathan Butler, and Virgil Donati. Recent past tours and performances include Allan Holdsworth, Chris Cornell, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Ryan Leslie, John Densmore (The Doors), Bilal, and Judith Hill (Michael Jackson). Other artists he has performed or recorded with are Kenny Loggins, Pete Escovedo, Will Kennedy & Jimmy Haslip (The Yellowjackets), Walter Smith III, Jojo Mayer, Ronald Bruner Jr., Cliff Almond, Frank Gambale, Hadrien Feraud, Jimmy Johnson, Janek Gwizdala, Bob Reynolds, Marcus Belgrave, Tony Macalpine, Mike Miller, Thomas Pridgen, Sheila E, Justo Almario, Tony Royster Jr., Melvin Davis, Jimmy Branly, Brian Bromberg, Renee Olstead, Carlitos del Puerto, Sandro Albert, Buck Owens' “Buckaroos”, Monty Byrom, The Smokin' Armadillos, and his own original projects including funk/jazz group Mother Funk Conspiracy featuring L.A. saxophonist Zane Musa.

Protocol European & US Tour 2017
Simon's new band will be on tour promoting “Protocol 4” starting October 26th.
October 26, 2017 Zug CH Theatrer Casino Zug
October 27, 2017 Verona IT Theatro Ristori
October 28, 2017 San Dona Di Piave IT Revolver Club
October 29, 2017 Rome IT Crossroads
October 30, 2017 Bologna IT Bravo Caffe
October 31, 2017 Bologna IT Bravo Caffe
November 2, 2017 Waidhoen AD Ybbs AT Plenkersaal
November 3, 2017 Katovice PL NOP SR
November 4, 2017 Krakow PL Club TBA
November 6, 2017 Vienna AT Porgy & Bess
November 8, 2017 Buhl DE Jazztival
November 9, 2017 Ravensburg DE Trans4Jazz
November 10, 2017 Reichenburg DE Bergkeller
November 11, 2017 Munster DE Jovel
November 13, 2017 Hobro DK Bil Forretningen
November 14, 2017 Kolding DK Godset
November 15, 2017 Copenhagen DK Amager Bio
November 16, 2017 Oslo NO Cosmopolite
November 17, 2017 Larvik NO Bolgen Kulturhus
November 18, 2017 Gothenburg SE Nefertiti
November 19, 2017 Stockholm SE Fasching
November 20, 2017 London UK Ronnie Scott's
November 21, 2017 London UK Ronnie Scott's
November 23, 2017 Hasbergen DE Masterclass
November 24, 2017 Hasbergen DE Gaste Garage
November 25, 2017 Hasbergen DE Gaste Garage
November 26, 2017 Zoetermeer NL De Boerderij
November 27, 2017 Hengelo NL Metropol
November 28, 2017 Verviers BE Spirit Of 66
November 29, 2017 Aschaffenburg DE Colos-Saal
November 30, 2017 Tallinn EE Russian Cultural Cnt
December 1, 2017 Rorschach CH Jazzclub Rorschach
December 2, 2017 Lichtenstein LI Little Big Beat Studios
December 4, 2017 New York City NY Iridium
December 5, 2017 New York City NY Iridium
December 6, 2017 New Hope PA Havana
December 8, 2017 Chicago IL Reggie's
December 9, 2017 Chicago IL Reggie's
December 10, 2017 Detroit MI Jazz Café @ Music Hall
December 12, 2017 Hollywood CA Catalina's Bar & Grill
December 13, 2017 Hollywood CA Catalina's Bar & Grill
December 14, 2017 Santa Cruz CA Kuumbwa Jazz Center
December 18, 2017 Oakland CA Yoshi's

Note: the live ensemble features: Otmaro Ruiz on Keyboards:
Otmaro Ruiz (Keyboards) - Considered one of the most important jazz pianists in the current scene, venezuelan Otmaro Ruiz is known for his versatility and virtuosity. He has worked with music artists: John McLaughlin, Tito Puente, Arturo Sandoval, John Patitucci, Paquito D'Rivera, Jing Chi, Nana Caymmi, Dori Caymmi, Akira Jimbo, Frank Gambale, Peter Erskine, Dave Weckl, Art Davis Quintet, Charlie Haden Liberation Music Orchestra, Alain Caron, Gino Vannelli, Tolu, Frank Morgan, Robben Ford, Vinnie Colaiuta and Jon Anderson. Otmaro Ruiz enjoys a US support deal from KAWAI Pianos and proudly endorses products from the following companies: LP (Latin Percussion), ART, RADIAL ENGINEERING, MACKIE, ZOOM, PRIMACOUSTIC, US MUSIC CORP (QuikLok, Washburn Guitars), SCARBEE and ILIO/SPECTRASONIC.

To purchase Simon Phillips “Protocol 4”: https://www.amazon.com/Protocol-4-Simon-Phillips/dp/B076F4LD3G

For more information: http://www.simon-phillips.com/

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

French Musician/Composer Alan Simon Releases New Compilation "Songwriter" 2CD Feat. Jon Anderson, Justin Hayward, Alan Parsons, Martin Barre, John Wetton, Mick Fleetwood and others!

London - Alan Simon is a French folk-rock musician and composer best known for his rock operas which are performed with collaboration from other noted rock musicians. Simon is associated with Breton Celticism, and his most ambitious works are typically on themes linked to Celtic myth and history. Simon has also branched out into film-making. Alan Simon is the creator of the legendary EXCALIBUR: THE CELTIC ROCK OPERA.

This 40 TRACK collection, released on Cherry Red, features a cross-section of Alan Simon's work from his various projects and rock operas.

“The 40 songs on the compilation are all personal selections from my rock operas and concept albums: 'Excalibur (the quadrilogy)', 'Gaia', 'Anne de Bretagne', 'Tristan & Yseult', 'Captain Kid' and various soundtracks...Some of these tracks fans may know already and other tracks offer a deeper insight into my work! 'Songwriter' a sentimental and personal collection which also includes a comic strip of my journey.” - Alan Simon

This collection features songs with guest appearances by:

Members of Supertramp
Midnight Oil
Alan Parsons
Jon Anderson
Fairport Convention
Moya Brennan
John Wetton
Justin Hayward
Maddy Prior
Billy Preston
Roberto Tiranti
Martin Barre
Les Holroyd
Mick Fleetwood
And Zucchero

This collection was previously vinyl only and is now being given its first mainstream CD release.

TRACK LISTING:

DISC ONE
1. CELTIC RING (Feat. Alan Parsons)
2. LES CAVALIERS DU VENT
3. WORLD (Feat. Brankica Vasic)
4. MORHOLT
5. THE ORIGINS PT 1 (Feat. Moya Brennan)
6. THE KINGS
7. LETTRE À YSEULT (Feat. Christian Décamps)
8. DIHUN
9. WAR
10. AD LIBITUM (Feat. Carlos Nũnez)
11. CELTIC LAND
12. BELTAINE (Feat. Fairport Convention)
13. SKYE (Feat. Skilda)
14. CASTLE ROCK (Feat. Fairport Convention)
15. DUN AENGUS (Feat. Martin Barre)
16. THE END
17. IN THE WIND OF THE CELTIC DREAM (Feat. Konan Mevel)
18. THE VISION (Feat. John Wetton)
19. ADELA (Feat. Jesse Siebenberg)
20. I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE (Feat. Jesse Siebenberg And John Helliwell)

DISC TWO
1. NO MAN’S LAND (Feat. Midnight Oil)
2. COME (Feat. Jesse Siebenberg)
3. THE ELEMENTS (Feat. Roger Hodgson & Dan Ar Braz)
4. DANCING HEART (Feat. Roberto Tiranti)
5. CIRCLE OF LIFE (Feat. Jon Anderson)
6. FAME AND GLORY (Feat. Fairport Convention)
7. PEACE ON EARTH (Feat. Heather Small & Billy Preston)
8. ANGEL'S TEARS (Feat. Jeremy Spencer)
9. WHERE IS THE WAY (Feat. Billy Preston)
10. ON THE ROAD (Feat. Justin Hayward)
11. JANGADERO (Feat. Cesaria Evora)
12. EVIL DAY (Feat. Roberto Tiranti)
13. SECRET GARDEN (Feat. Maddy Prior)
14. WORLD (Feat. Zucchero & Anggun)
15. MOTHERLAND (Feat. Jimmy O Neill)
16. SAMAN (Feat. Les Holroyd & Mick Fleetwood)
17. MARIE LA CORDELIÈRE (Feat. James Wood & Fairport Convention)
18. LUGH (Feat. John Wetton & Martin Barre)
19. DESIRE (Feat. Les Holroyd)
20. A PRAYER FOR MY LOVER (Feat. Siobhan Owen)

To purchase:
Amazon: http://geni.us/BAB001

Alan Simon's official website: http://www.alansimononline.com/eng.html

Forthoming on November 3, 2017!
Alan Simon's EXCALIBUR IV is the widely anticipated fourth NEW STUDIO ALBUM in the Celtic Rock Opera series, following on from the GOLD and PLATINUM selling original trilogy. EXCALIBUR IV was played live in its entirety to 12 ARENAS in Germany in December 2016 and will be touring again in 2018.

This new album based on the legendary story of KING ARTHUR features guest appearances from:
Alan Stivell, Michael Sadler (Saga), Jesse Sibenberg & John Helliwell (Supertramp), Martin Barre (Jethro Tull), Moya Brennan (Clannad), Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth), Bernie Shaw (Uriah Heep), Siobham Owen, Sonja Kristina (Curved Air), John Kelly (The Kelly Family), Maite Itoiz (Elfhental)

Official Excalibur Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Excalibur.The.Celtic.Rock.Opera/

Essential Modern Progressive Rock Albums: Images and Words Behind Prog's Most Celebrated Albums 1990-2016 Available For Pre-order Now

Earlier this summer, a new book dedicated to the resurgence of one of music's most enduring and underrated genres was announced from The Prog Report. Essential Modern Progressive Rock Albums: Images and Words Behind Prog’s Most Celebrated Albums 1990-2016, authored by Prog Report editor Roie Avin, is the first book to shine a light exclusively on the important albums of the modern progressive rock era. This new book showcases more than 50 albums from the last quarter century of prog, with each chapter dedicated to one album.

Featuring full color images of the artists live, original press photos and brilliant album cover art, this 280+ page, soft cover coffee table book will be one every prog fan will want to display proudly as a badge of their fandom.

The book, out in late November, is now available for preorder only at: http://progreport.com/essential-modern-prog-rock-albums/

Preorders come with a download of a chapter from the book on Transatlantic’s The Whirlwind.

Highlighted in the book are prolific and pioneering artists such as Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Opeth, Spock’s Beard, Marillion, The Flower Kings, Enchant, Fates Warning, Queensryche, and Big Big Train, along with more recent bands like Haken, Karnivool, Riverside, Between the Buried and Me, and The Dear Hunter, among the more than 30 bands included. Drawing on original interviews with band members such as Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, Steven Wilson, John Petrucci, Mikael Åkerfeldt, Roine Stolt, Pete Trewavas, Ross Jennings, and dozens more, the book offers an in-depth look at the stories behind the albums that shaped the next wave of progressive rock. This book focuses solely on bands that carried the mantle of the genre's initial '70s explosion, artists that expanded the genre further, incorporating new sounds and elements to reach new audiences worldwide.

“The last 25+ years have been an incredibly fruitful period for progressive music, as this books indicates. The albums chosen here represent some of the most exciting music created in the modern progressive period, and it's only right that they claim their moment in the spotlight.” - Jerry Ewing, Prog Magazine

“There certainly was a period when the majority of bands of the New Prog generation, whilst more than competent, sounded just a bit too derivative of the their first generation idols. But Roie Avin's book goes some way to establish the credentials of the more recent Neo-Prog bands as having a far more individual and original voice whether it be the virtuosity of Dream Theater, the creativity and appeal of Big Big Train, or the highly impressive path carved out by Steven Wilson firstly with Porcupine Tree and latterly, in his own right.” - Anthony Phillips, Genesis founding member and guitarist

“This looks to be an amazing book and a MUST HAVE for Prog fans!” - Mike Portnoy

Teaser video that was released in July: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuamlgOsIOI

To purchase: http://progreport.com/essential-modern-prog-rock-albums/

For more information: contact@progreport.com

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

Stream: LUNATIC SOUL-FRACTURED

Former Yes Guitarist Peter Banks Posthumously Rejoins Mabel Greer's Toyshop For The Last Song On New Album "The Secret"

Mabel Greer’s Toyshop: The Secret Is Out… A new song written to celebrate 50 years of Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining the group in 1967.

London- On a new Mabel Greer’s Toyshop album “The Secret” to be released by December 15, and for the first time in 50 years, Peter Banks and Clive Bayley are heard playing a guitar duo. Clive has written a new song around previously recorded guitar parts by Peter Banks. The song is included in the album as a tribute to Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining Mabel Greer in September 1967. “I did it because reading of Peter’s passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP ‘Images’”, said Clive.

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive at sixteen years old, had already been playing music in a band since the age of 13, he was writing his own compositions and already had an idea of what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition in the band ‘The Syn’. The bass player happened to be Chris Squire and the guitarist Peter Banks, it wasn’t long before they both joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer’s Toyshop and the seeds of ‘Yes’ were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, in June Bill Bruford replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. But in August of that year Clive left the band and they changed name to ‘Yes’.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let’s get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album “New Way Of Life” featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

This new album of 9 songs “The Secret” with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass will be available on or before December 15, 2017 on CD and digital download at: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com

A special thanks to Daniel Earnshaw of QEDG Management for providing the Peter Banks recordings.

Enquiries: Emily at: mabelgreerstoyshop@gmail.com
Mabel Greer’s Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

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

John Wetton's AKUSTIKA - LIVE IN AMERIKA & AKUSTIKA II - RETURN TO AMERIKA 2-CD Now Available!

Features previously unreleased acoustic show from 2005!

London - JOHN WETTON was the lead singer & bassist of ASIA, UK and the Red era of KING CRIMSON, with an extensive solo catalogue. This 2-CD set AKUSTIKA – LIVE IN AMERIKA & AKUSTIKA II – RETURN TO AMERIKA includes a 2017 remaster of the acoustic album AKUSTIKA and a previously unreleased acoustic show from 2005.

The booklet features specially written recollections of close friends and fans who attended the 2005 show with previously unseen photographs. The release is on the imprint label John Wetton started during his lifetime, Primary Purpose, via Cherry Red Records.

John Wetton rose to fame with King Crimson in the early 70s during the iconic Red era and later formed the band UK. In the early 1980s he was a founder member of supergroup ASIA which was his biggest commercial success. The band’s 1982 self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world that year and gave fans and mainstream radio the mega-hit “Heat of the Moment.”

John also enjoyed a successful solo career, including the seminal album Battle Lines, and formed iCon with ASIA bandmate Geoff Downes. In 2006 the original line-up of ASIA reformed and toured the world several times to promote four new studio albums.

John Wetton sadly passed away on the 31st January 2017, after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer. This new release was personally selected by John before his passing as one of the many back catalogue titles to be reissued in the near future.

TRACK LIST

DISC ONE
1. VOICE OF AMERICA
2. HOLD ME NOW
3. RENDEZVOUS 6:02
4. CHRISTINA
5. 30 YEARS
6. ONLY TIME WILL TELL
7. BOOK OF SATURDAY
8. DON’T CRY
9. BATTLE LINES
10. THE SMILE HAD LEFT YOUR EYES
11. HEAT OF THE MOMENT
12. YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE

DISC TWO
1. WALKING ON AIR
2. MEET ME AT MIDNIGHT
3. SOLE SURVIVOR
4. BOOK OF SATURDAY
5. EMMA
6. DAYS LIKE THESE
7. THIRTY YEARS / HOLD ME NOW
8. ARKANGEL
9. RENDEZVOUS 6:02
10. STARLESS
11. VOICE OF AMERICA
12. WOMAN
13. THE NIGHT WATCH
14. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES
15. HEAT OF THE MOMENT

Released October 6, 2017.

To purchase:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/PP008CD
iTunes: http://geni.us/PP008DIG

John Wetton's official website: http://www.johnwetton.com/

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

King Crimson To Release "Official Bootleg: Live in Chicago, June 28th, 2017" & "Sailors' Tales (1970 – 1972)" - Limited Edition 27 Disc Boxed Set

King Crimson's “Official Bootleg: Live in Chicago, June 28th, 2017,” a two CD set, taken from the band's most recent US tour, will be released on October 13, 2017. Presented as a King Crimson Collectors' Club special edition, King Crimson's “Live in Chicago is packaged in a media-book style hard cover 2CD edition with a 24 pages booklet featuring photographs by Tony Levin, introductory notes by Robert Fripp and photos/production notes by KC producer/manager David Singleton.

The album showcases many iconic King Crimson pieces performed live by this line-up for the first time – some being played live for the first time ever, including: “Islands,” “The Lizard Suite,” “The Errors,” “Fallen Angel,” “Cirkus” & more..

Featuring:
Mel Collins: Saxes & flute, Robert Fripp: Guitar & keyboards, Gavin Harrison: Drums, Jakko Jakszyk: Guitar & voice, Tony Levin: Basses, stick, voice Pat Mastelotto: Drums, Bill Rieflin: Keyboards, Jeremy Stacey: Drums & keyboards

 “If we are looking for a KC live (show); Chicago was exceptional” – Robert Fripp

 “One of our best” – Tony Levin

Reasons for the CD release:

1) Musicians know when a gig has really worked; when all the practicing, rehearsing, playing, set-list comes together in a particular time & venue with a particular audience. So, when musicians unanimously say that a concert was special, it's time to pay attention & plan a release for the broader community of fans as soon as is possible

2) King Crimson is a band that's best experienced live & if you can’t be there, the live album is the next best thing. Those fortunate to have recently witnessed the band live will surely want to also own this new live release.

“King Crimson - Sailors' Tales (1970 – 1972)” - Limited Edition 27 Disc Boxed Set containing 21CDS/4Blu- Rays/2DVD (all audio) will be released on November 3, 2017.

With much of the material from “In The Wake Of Poseidon,” “Lizard” and “Islan ds” now being performed by the current King Crimson line-up (2014 - to present), it is only in recent years that the wider world has begun to realise what fans have always known: this era's recordings are as vital as any other segment of the King Crimson catalogue.

Recorded between the dazzling impact of “In The Court Of The Crimson” in 1969 and the startling reinvention of the band in 1973's “Larks' Tongues In Aspic,” this boxed set documents a crucial period in King Crimson's history and shows it to be brimming with innovation, experimentation, and boundary-pushing energy.

With a wealth of previously unheard studio recordings from band rehearsals to full alternate mixes and a vast array of live material, much of it on CD/Blu-Ray for the first time and including four recently found, never before released concerts, this set presents the complete King Crimson recorded history of the period in the best quality audio possible.

• The complete 1970-72 King Crimson boxed set: 21CDS/4Blu-Rays/2DVD – all audio.
• 3CDs feature Steven Wilson & Robert Fripp stereo mixes of “In The Wake Of Poseidon” (1970), “Lizard” ( 1970) & “Islands” (1971) + additional tracks.
• 6CDs feature the Islands line-ups early concerts from Germany (new to CD) & the UK (1971).
• 9CDs feature live recordings (several new to CD and/or previously unreleased in any format) from the 1972 US tour, including a new stereo mix of “Summit Studios” & an expanded “Earthbound.”
• 3CDs feature auditions for the Islands band & two further, as yet, unidentified concerts from 1972 (all previously unreleased)
• 3 Blu-Ray discs contain the main studio albums in 5.1 Surround Sound & recent stereo editions mixed by Steven Wilson & Robert Fripp + 30th anniversary masters of the original stereo albums mixes (all in 24/96 hi-res), plus extensive additional material with each disc also featuring a complete alternate album + a further selection of additional, related studio/live material in hi-res.
• “Lizard” Blu-Ray: also contains the audition material from CDs19/20
• “Islands” Blu-Ray: also contains the following concerts in stereo Zoom Club (4 shows), Marquee Club, Plymouth, Glasgow, Detroit all from 1971.
• “Earthbound Tour”: Blu-Ray features an expanded version of the original album, Summit Studios gig in Stereo & Quadraphonic (newly mixed), the “Schizoid Men” sequence from the “Ladies of the Road” album, 2 newly discovered concerts in hi-res stereo & every existing soundboard concert recording from the 1972 US tour: Wilmington, NYC (2 shows), Chicago (2 tracks only), Detroit, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Peoria, Indianapolis & Denver (2 shows).
• 2 DVDs feature the expanded “Earthbound”, “Summit Studios,” “Schizoid Men,” “New York 1972” & the recently discovered live concerts.
• 12” box with booklet, memorabilia, a further downloadable concert, new sleeve-notes by Sid Smith, Jakko Jakszyk & David Singleton

King Crimson's “Official Bootleg: Live in Chicago, June 28th, 2017” and “King Crimson - Sailors' Tales (1970 – 1972)” - Limited Edition 27 Disc Boxed Set can be pre-ordered via the shops at www.schizoidshop.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.

Catch King Crimson's US tour Fall 2017!

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
13 Nov Paramount Theatre, Long Island, NY - tickets
15 Nov Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY - tickets
17 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY - tickets
18 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY - tickets
20 Nov Palace Theater, Greensburg, PA - 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

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.



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

Concert Review: YES Featuring ARW Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman

YES Featuring ARW Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman 

The Palace Albany, NY October 5, 2017

 http://yesfeaturingarw.com

Around this time 15 years ago I saw Yes perform in Albany. Then it was the classic lineup. How things change with the passing of time. Since then a lot has happened for the men involved with the legacy of this legendary band. Most significantly, Chris Squire, one the band’s founding members, passed away. The other musicians have remained active.

Now we have Jon Anderson (vocals), Trevor Rabin (guitar, vocals) and Rick Wakeman (keyboards and luminous cape) with Lee Pomeroy (bass) and Louis Molino III (drums) holding down the bottom end.

I sat in some excellent seats in the left orchestra section. The seats were so generously provided by Jamie Carroll of Press Here Publicity.  The Palace is one of my favorite places to go to a concert, it is beautiful and easily accessible from where I reside. I am very grateful for the opportunity to provide coverage.

Yes, is the godfather of Prog Rock as far as this music listener is concerned.

Oddly enough my favorite recording is 90125 which was their most commercial release and their biggest seller. Well, I was in for a treat because a few of those songs were played. I think because Trevor (who recorded 4 studio with Yes) was in the band for that album, it made sense to dive into those tracks. And speaking of godfather’s, Rick Wakeman is and always will be THE ultimate prog rock keyboard master. Everyone else came after him and was influenced in some way by the man.

I was amazed by how fantastic the band sounded, they exceeded my expectations, which were very high prior to entering the venue. Jon Anderson sounded great, as good as ever.  For a gent that is 72 years old he is truly an iconic and inspiring individual. His energy is so positive and he simply owns the audience.

“Cinema” kicked off the evening. This was a great choice to get the crowd into it right from the start. There was no problem with that. The place was packed, which came as no surprise to me. Mr. Rabin is a superb guitar player with a great vocal range as well. His vocals certainly compliment Jon’s and when he takes the helm it sounds powerful and commanding. Of course, Mr. Anderson has one of the most identifiable and unique vocal styles in the world and you immediately recognize no matter where the music of Yes is playing. This is a trademark style so impactful that it is hard to ignore

“Heart of the Sunrise” is a prog rock classic we are all familiar with and it just has to be a part of their set. It was not only done well, it was presented with perfection. Each member clicked as if they have been touring together forever. And I cannot forget to mention how the gents in the back of the stars, Lee Pomeroy (bass) and Louis Molino III (drums), were the quintessential rhythm section that held it all together. They deserve a lot of credit.

I realize their set list does not seem that extensive however we must remember this is prog and each song is musical workout that carries on a good 15 minutes or more with plenty of improvisation. That is the beauty of progressive rock and what I always found so intriguing.

The classic everyone knows, “Roundabout,” was the obvious encore and they did not disappoint. It was a bit shorter than I expected however, that is not a complaint just an observation. We certainly got a good dose of Yes music for the evening and everyone enjoyed the show.

Yes is timeless and legendary with a deep catalog that could keep them touring until they were all 90 years old. Although that is not realistic we all should continue to support them while they are still recording and touring. I will be there, you can count on that!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 6, 2017

Set List:
Cinema
Perpetual Change
Hold On
South Side of the Sky
And You and I
Changes
Rhythm of Love
I Am Waiting
Heart of the Sunrise
Awaken
Owner of a Lonely Heart

Encore:
Roundabout
 

Curved Air Legend Sonja Kristina Releases New Anthology Featuring Newly Recorded Exclusive Tracks! Out Now!

London - Legendary Curved Air lead singer and founding member Sonja Kristina has released a new 2-CD compilation called ANTHOLOGY! This is the FIRST collection of her solo works and draws on recordings from her varied solo albums, along with rare and NEWLY RECORDED EXCLUSIVE TRACKS.

Released by Curved Air Records via Cherry Red, this Anthology has been personally compiled by Sonja, with custom cover art and her personal liner notes.

Says Sonja, “This collection is selected from my recordings outside of Curved Air. My reveries on life and love through the decades and beautiful songs that I have had the privilege to perform and make my own.”


photo by Ken Ansted

Sonja Kristina, who topped the British Music female vocalist polls throughout the '70s was the first UK female lead singer fronting a Rock band. She has been the constant flame leading Curved Air through the decades, and a Guiding Light in the Prog scene. Today, vibrant and edgy as ever, Sonja, the original Prog goddess gives a charismatic and highly visual performance. Looking like a glamorous gipsy queen with her flowing red hair and dressed in sparkly black, that signature voice is still as smoky and seductive as ever as she spins around the stage around the excellent musicians who are Curved Air.

Sonja will be on tour both as a solo artist and with Curved Air as it builds up to its 50th anniversary year.

TRACK LISTING

DISC ONE
1. FRANK MILLS
2. IF THIS WAS LOVE
3. THE PASSION
4. BABY SONG
5. FULL TIME WOMAN
6. MAN HE COLOUR
7. ONE TO ONE
8. MELINDA (MORE OR LESS)
9. THIS IS NOT A SANCTUARY
10. ANGEL
11. C’EST LA VIE

DISC TWO
1. DEVIL MAY CARE
2. ANNA
3. BUCCANEER
4. ROLLERCOASTER
5. SAN TROPEZ
6. I DON’T BELIEVE A WORD
7. STREET RUN
8. O FORTUNA
9. LOVE CHILD
10. CITADEL

CURVED AIR RECORDS
Released October 6, 2017.

To purchase:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/CRVESK

Official website: www.sonjakristina.com

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

The Keith Emerson Estate Announces the Re-release of "Emerson Plays Emerson" on CD & Download. OUT NOW!

London - The Keith Emerson Estate is pleased to announce the re-release of the celebrated album of Keith Emerson keyboard (and rare) pieces, Emerson Plays Emerson, which has long been out of print and a collector's item.

The re-release uses a fresh transfer of the master tapes by Abbey Road, a 2017 remaster, and artwork from the original art files. The booklet contains the liner notes in English, Italian and German.

The re-release is the Estate's own imprint label Emersongs, via Cherry Red.

The members of Keith's family have personally overseen the preparation of this re-release and they are also preparing to approve a music transcriptions book of the album for release in early 2018. The family is focused on celebrating and enhancing Keith Emerson’s musical legacy and supporting projects which further the appreciation of his life's work…

Keith's eldest son, Aaron said of the release: “Since the passing of my father, we have been inundated with requests for a reissue of the album 'Emerson Plays Emerson'. This album was a labour of love for Dad, so we decided to go with the original artwork to stay as true to the original as possible as we understand how happy Dad was with it. I know he would be happy with this re-issue, so on behalf of myself, Jo and my boys, of Damon and his family, of my mother Elinor, and of my father's fiancé Mari, and with thanks to Daniel Earnshaw, Martin Darvill and Stewart Young for all their hard work, we hope you enjoy it!”

The album can be ordered via the below links:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/EplaysE
iTunes: http://geni.us/KE002dig

Keith Emerson's official website: http://www.keithemerson.com/
Keith Emerson's official Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/officialkeithemerson/

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