Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Wishbone Ash's Twin Barrels Burning and Raw To The Bone Given First Official and Remastered Definitive Edition Re-release!



Each album is available on 2CD and Picture Disc LP with extensive bonus materials, just in time for Christmas!

These are the FIRST OFFICIAL re-releases of Twin Barrels Burning from 1982 and Raw to the Bone from 1985 in decades and DEFINITIVE EDITIONS with all new 2017 REMASTERS.

Both albums feature new liner notes by rock journalist Dave Ling, including new interviews with all the surviving members and archive quotes from the late Trevor Bolder.

Twin Barrels Burning - This smoking hot 21 TRACK 2CD set includes the American Remixes of the album on a second disc, which have NEVER BEEN ON CD BEFORE.

Raw To The Bone - This mammoth 23 TRACK 2CD set has bonus tracks including a HOLY GRAIL for Wishbone Ash fans – ALL FOUR UNRELEASED SONGS from the post-album 1986 SESSIONS. The bonus CD also includes The Friday Rock Show BBC Sessions, which are often described as better than the album versions, plus four live tracks from Hammersmith.

These re-issues are FULLY APPROVED by Steve Upton, Laurie Wisefield, Andy Powell, Merv Spence, and the estate of Trevor Bolder.

These 2CD sets and Picture Disc LPs are IN STOCK NOW with PledgeMusic orders being sent out in time for Christmas – ahead of being released by Cherry Red on 2nd February 2018.

The second disc of bonus tracks accompanying each CD will not be available with any other product or box set.

The editions are IN STOCK NOW and can be ordered from: http://pmusic.co/lvPp2D

Twin Barrels Burning 2CD Track List

DISC ONE:
1. Engine Overheat
2. Can’t Fight Love
3. Genevieve
4. Me and My Guitar
5. Hold On
6. Streets of Shame
7. No More Lonely Nights
8. Angels Have Mercy
9. Wind Up
Bonus Tracks:
10. Cat and Dog Fight
11. Go for the Gold
12. Night Hawker

DISC TWO – The American Remixes
1. Engine Overheat
2. Can’t Fight Love
3. No More Lonely Nights
4. Wind Up
5. Streets Of Shame
6. My Guitar
7. Hold On
8. Genevieve
9. Angels Have Mercy

Raw To The Bone 2CD Track List

DISC ONE:
1. Cell of Fame
2. People in Motion
3. Don’t Cry
4. Love in Blue
5. Long live the Night
6. Rocket in my Pocket
7. It’s Only Love
8. Don’t You Mess
9. Dreams (Searching for an Answer)
10. Perfect Timing
Bonus Tracks:
11. She’s Still Alive
The 1986 Sessions
12. Apocalypso
13. Valley of Tears
14. Nkomo
15. Talk To Me

DISC 2:
The Friday Rock Show
1. Long Live the Night
2. Cell of Fame
3. Love in Blue
4. People in Motion
Live at Hammersmith on BBC local radio
5. Living Proof
6. Cell of Fame
7. The King Will Come
8. Blowin’ Free

Available for order:
Twin Barrels Burning 2 CD
Raw To The Bone 2 CD
Twin Barrels Burning Picture Disc LP
Raw To The Bone Picture Disc LP
CD Bundle
Picture Disc Bundle
All Formats Bundle

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

Monday, November 27, 2017

Mabel Greer's Toyshop To Release New Album The Secret Featuring Guitar Legend Peter Banks - December 8, 2017


London - Prog rock pioneers, Mabel Greer's Toyshop (for without Mabel Greer, there would be no YES), are to release a new album The Secret on December 8th.

On this album, Peter Banks (former YES & Flash guitarist) can be heard playing a guitar duo with Mabel Greer's founder, guitarist and vocalist, Clive Bayley for the first time in 50 years. Clive has written a new song around guitar parts recorded by Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013. This song is a tribute to Banks and Chris Squire who both joined the band in September 1967.

Bayley explains, “I was inspired to do this because Peter's passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger (drummer with Mabel Greer's Toyshop) 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”.

The Secret is an album of 9 new songs, with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass joining Bayley and Hagger. With roots back to an era when music evolved like never before and now combined with musical maturity, this album is must have for all Prog fans everywhere.

Track Listing:

1. Big Brother, Little Brother
2. Love's Fire
3. Turning To The Light
4. Angel Sent
5. More & More
6. Swan
7. Image of Existence
8. You
9. The Secret (ft. Peter Banks)

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 was only 16 years old but had already been playing in a band since the age of 13. He was writing his own compositions and knew what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition with THE SYN whose bassist was Chris Squire and guitarist Peter Banks. Not long after, both Squire and Banks 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, followed by Bill Bruford, who replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. When Clive left the band in August that year 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.

Watch the new video for the song “The Secret”: https://youtu.be/Fxqaq1T2Oro  ;

The Secret will be available on 8th December on CD and digital download from: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com ;

Mabel Greer's Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

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

Friday, November 24, 2017

King Crimson Uncertain Times European Tour 2018


King Crimson has announced the “Uncertain Times” European tour for 2018. The ensemble will visit Poland, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Sweden, Norway, The Netherlands, Italy, France and UK.

Pre-sale VIP tickets will go on sale on 23rd November from the band’s website www.dgmlive.com, where fans can also find recordings and photographs of recent shows. General tickets will go on sale on 1st December.

King Crimson 2018 European tour dates:

13th June Poznan, Poland Earth Hall
14th June Poznan, Poland Earth Hall
16th June Krakow, Poland ICE Congress Hall
17th June Krakow, Poland ICE Congress Hall
18th June Krakow, Poland ICE Congress Hall
20th June Essen, Germany Lichtburg
23rd June Vienna, Austria Stadthalle
24th June Vienna, Austria Stadthalle
26th June Prague, Czech Republic Forum Karlin
27th June Prague, Czech Republic Forum Karlin
1st July Berlin, Germany Admiralspalast
5th July Stockholm, Sweden Cirkus
6th July Stockholm, Sweden Cirkus
8th July Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene
9th July Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene
10th July Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene
13th July Amsterdam, The Netherlands Concertgebouw
16th July Munich, Germany Philharmonie
19th July Pompeii, Italy Teatro Grande
20th July Pompeii, Italy Teatro Grande
22nd July Rome, Italy Auditorium Cavea
23rd July Rome, Italy Auditorium Cavea
25th July Lucca, Italy Piazza Napoleone
27th July Venice, Italy Teatro La Fenice
28th July Venice, Italy Teatro La Fenice
29th Oct Bournemouth, UK Pavilion Theatre
31st Oct Cardiff, UK St Davids
2nd Nov London, UK Palladium
6th Nov Birmingham, UK Symphony Hall
9th Nov Manchester, UK Bridgewater Hall
12th Nov Glasgow, UK Royal Concert Hall
15th Nov Paris, France L’Olympia
16th Nov Paris, France L’Olympia



With three drummers, Pat Mastelotto, Gavin Harrison and Jeremy Stacey, as well as the return of multi-instrumentalist Bill Rieflin 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 and flautist Mel Collins, who was a mainstay of Crim from 1970-1972. The band’s packed three-hour shows draw on material from all periods of their history, including six historic tracks that Crimson have never played live before, as well as new arrangements of Crimson classics – “the music is new whenever it was written” – and, of course, a healthy dose of new material, including the compositions for three drummers, which are a regular highlight.

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

“Jimi Hendrix saw them at the Marquee in 1969 and declared them to be the best band in the world. In many ways, almost half a century later, they still are.” - ERIC THIESSEN, All About Jazz.

“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 king is not dead, far from it, and they still rejoice.” - REJEAN BEAUCAGE, Voir.ca

“Crimson has never sounded more complete, or more joyous, on stage than it does now.” - JORDAN ZIVITZ, Montreal Gazette

“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

“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



For more information: www.dgmlive.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com
paintings by Francesca Sundsten
photographs by Dean Stocking and David Singleton

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Bill Nelson's "Dreamy Screens: Soundtracks From Echo Observatory" 3-Disc Boxed Set Available December 1, 2017!



Now available for pre-order

London - Esoteric Recordings' imprint Cocteau Discs, dedicated to the work of BILL NELSON, are proud to announce the release of a deluxe 3 disc clamshell boxed set limited edition collection titled “Dreamy Screens: Soundtracks from the Echo Observatory.” The set features three albums, all recorded at Bill Nelson's Yorkshire home studio, the Echo Observatory, in 1981 and 1982 - “Sounding the Ritual Echo” (originally issued as a limited edition bonus LP with Bill's 1981 album “Quit Dreaming and Get On the Beam”), “Das Kabinet” (a soundtrack to a production of “The Cabinet of Doctor Caligari” by The Yorkshire Actors Company issued as an LP on Bill's Cocteau label in 1981) and “La Belle et La Bete” (a soundtrack to a stage production of Jean Cocteau's classic 1946 film “Beauty & the Beast,” first issued as a limited edition bonus LP with Bill's 1982 album “The Love That Whirls”).

All of the recordings featured in this set demonstrate Bill's creativity utilising primitive recording equipment by today's standards. As Bill has stated, “The music was recorded on a domestic four track machine. A high degree of self-discipline was in order.”

All of the recordings forming “Dreamy Screens” have now become highly regarded in the prolific discography of Bill Nelson.

Track Listings
Disc: 1
  1. Annunciation
  2. Sounding the Ritual Echo
  3. Sleep
  4. Near East
  5. Emak Bakia
  6. My Intricate Image
  7. Endless Orchids
  8. The Heat in the Room
  9. Another Willingly Opened Window
  10. Vanishing Parades
  11. Glass Fish (For the Final Aquarium)
  12. Cubical Domes
  13. Ashes of Roses
  14. The Shadow Garden
  15. Opium

Disc: 2
  1. The Asylum
  2. Waltz
  3. The Fairground
  4. Doctor Caligari
  5. Cesare the Somnambulist
  6. Murder
  7. The Funeral
  8. The Somnambulist and the Children
  9. Caligari Disciplines Cesare
  10. Caligari Feeds Cesare
  11. Caligari Opens the Cabinet
  12. Jane Discovers Cesare
  13. The Attempted Murder of Jane
  14. The Dream Dance of Jane and the Somnambulist
  15. Escape Over the Rooftops
  16. The Unmasking
  17. The Shot
  18. The Cabinet Closes

Disc: 3
  1. Overture
  2. The Family
  3. Sisters and Sedan Chairs
  4. In the Forest of Storms
  5. The Castle
  6. The Gates
  7. The Corridor
  8. The Great Hall
  9. Dreams (The Merchant Sleeps)
  10. Fear (The Merchant Wakes)
  11. The Rose and the Beast
  12. Magnificent (The White Horse)
  13. Beauty Enters the Castle
  14. The Door
  15. The Mirror
  16. Candelabra and Gargoyles
  17. Beauty and the Beast
  18. Transition No. 1
  19. Transition No. 2
  20. The Hunt
  21. The Gift
  22. The Garden
  23. Transition No. 3
  24. Transition No. 4
  25. The Tragedy
  26. Transition No. 5
  27. The Enchanted Glove
  28. Tears As Diamonds (The Gift Reverses)
  29. The Beast in Solitude
  30. The Return of the Magnificent
  31. Transition No. 6 (The Journey)
  32. The Pavilion of Diana
  33. Transformation No.1
  34. Transformation No. 2
  35. The Final Curtain

To pre-order Bill Nelson's “Dreamy Screens: Soundtracks From Echo Observatory” 3-Disc Boxed: 
Cherry Red webstore: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/dreamy-screens-soundtracks-from-the-echo-observatory/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dreamy-Screens-Soundtracks-Echo-Observatory/dp/B075TQS3F4

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

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

Monday, November 20, 2017

EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS - OUT NOW!


Featuring original YES & Flash Guitar Legend Peter Banks!


London - EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS is the first release by The Peter Banks Musical Estate (via Cherry Red) and is also fully endorsed by Sydney Jordan (Foxx). The set includes the songs from all three EMPIRE studio albums and The Mars Tapes together in one place. The 40 page booklet features six different sets of liner notes and extensive pictures from the personal archives of band members. The audio has received a 2017 remaster.

“Thank you to Daniel Earnshaw, QEDG Management, Cherry Red Records, Carl Glover and Mike Pietrini for the remastering, design and release of this wonderful, definitive collection of 'Empire' recordings. Peter has always said that 'Empire' and the music we created was where his heart was and that it was the closest he had come to his dream of creating another band like 'YES'.  With 'Empire' we achieved 90% of what we set out to. 10% was lost to pressure from the industry and the misfortune of being in L.A. during the 'Disco Era'. But the 90% that remains in this complete collection of 'Empire' recordings is timeless, magical and yet another valuable musical testament to one of the most innovative and greatest guitar players ever, who co-created one of the greatest bands ever!” - Sydney Foxx

Peter Banks passed away in 2013 but his musical legacy will live on with a series of official definitive album releases throughout 2018 and 2019. The Peter Banks Musical Estate is represented by Daniel Earnshaw.

Track List:

DISC ONE: THE BEST OF EMPIRE
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. DESTINY
3. FARAWAY
4. FOUNDATION
5. SKY AT NIGHT (Featuring Phil Collins)
6. WHERE YES MEANS NO
7. OFF WITH THE KING’S HEAD
8. MORE THAN WORDS
9. SHOOTING STAR
PART 1 – FROM THE TOP
PART 2 – COMMON GROUND
PART 3 – ICELAND ON THE ROCKS
PART 4 – SHOOTING STAR
10. FOR A LIFETIME
11. DO WHAT YOU WANT

DISC TWO: THE MARS TAPES
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. FOUNDATION/DESTINY/FARAWAY
3. SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW BAR AND GRILL
4. DO WHAT YOU WANT
5. DANCING MAN
6. SOMETHING’S COMING
7. THE FALL OF THE EMPIRE
8. WHEN THE BANKS OVERFLOW
9. ASCENDING TO THE PLANET MARS
10. AS SILENCE PREVAILS

DISC THREE: THE REST OF EMPIRE
1. EVERYTHING CHANGES
2. SKY AT NIGHT (MARK II VERSION)
3. STILL OUT OF OUR HANDS
4. GOODBYE
5. DESTINY (MARK II VERSION)
6. SOMEONE WHO CARES
7. AIN’T THAT PECULIAR
8. DANCING MAN
9. HEAR MY VOICE ON THE RADIO
10. WHO (Featuring Ray Bennett)

To purchase EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS:
AMAZON CD: http://geni.us/PBME1
iTUNES: http://geni.us/PBME1dig

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/Remembering-Peter-Banks-165355266955155/

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

Sunday, November 19, 2017

DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION Release New Album Skyscraper Souls Feat. Guest Appearances By Andy Partridge (XTC), Marc Almond and Kate Pierson (B52s)! OUT NOW!


Front cover artwork is by Roger Dean! 

London - Super-duo Geoff Downes & Chris Braide, known as the Downes Braide Association (DBA), release their new album Skyscraper Souls on 17th November through their own label X2X Records via Cherry Red. This is their 3rd collaboration and follows their two previous critically-acclaimed releases Pictures of You (2012) and Suburban Ghosts (2015).

Both members have an immense body of work. Chris Braide is a British singer, songwriter and producer, now based in LA, who has written and produced songs for Beyonce, Lana del Rey, Paloma Faith, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, David Guetta, Sia, Afrojack & Marc Almond… to name a few. Geoff Downes is the prog legend who has played keyboards in The Buggles, Asia & Yes… he co-wrote the hits “Heat of the Moment” and “Video Killed the Radio Star.”

Skyscraper Souls is a more traditional progressive/classic rock/band album than their previous material, but retains a strong pop aesthetic and features many great guest contributions, including Marc Almond, Andy Partridge from XTC and Kate Pierson from the B52s. The front cover artwork is by Roger Dean.

Watch the new DBA video:


The idea for the album started as a series of sketches Geoff had been working on after a break from touring last year. By the time he returned from the road he directed the subsequent pent-up energy into composition and the ideas literally poured out. As a kid, Chris had always loved expansive pieces like “Close To The Edge” and “Tubular Bells.” While he is a huge pop fan and has written multitudes of pop hits for pop stars, his heart has a special place for those big studio epic productions.

On this album, Downes & Braide were joined by drummer Ash Soan (Trevor Horn, Squeeze, Faithless, Del Amitri, Adele, Cee Lo Green, Will Young, Robbie Williams & Gary Barlow and many more) and bassist Andy Hodge. Chris says, “Having such an amazing rhythm section really brought the songs to life. With previous albums we always used drum machines and samples. There is so much warmth and movement in these recordings. They breathe!”

The fact that their 'association' has always had to fit around their extensive commitments has never dulled their remarkable musical creativity. This album went a step further and was co-written remotely - at no time were the pair ever in the same room! Chris explains, “Geoff would send me folders full of stuff such as the magnificent piano pieces which turned into 'Glacier Girl' and 'Prelude.' As soon as I heard the chords I was writing lyrics like a mad man and before long the album started to materialize.” Geoff adds, “The ideas themselves were in a very rough format, but with the melodies & basic harmonies. Chris started playing around with these, and often, they came back with some radical changes, but Chris was always very conscious to retain my original idea.”

The pair feel Skyscraper Souls is their strongest album to date, which is no mean feat! This album contains constant motifs and themes that recur and flow throughout. Keeping strong melodies to the fore they have created a wonderfully interesting soundscape.

Track list as follows: 

1. Prelude (ft Andy Partridge - XTC)
2. Skyscraper Souls (ft Kate Pierson - B52s)
3. Glacier Girl (ft Andy Partridge)
4. Angel On Your Shoulder (ft Matthew Koma)
5. Tomorrow (ft David Longdon - Big Big Train)
6. Lighthouse (ft Tim Bowness)
7. Skin Deep (ft Marc Almond)
8. Darker Times (ft Andy Partridge)

Outside of DBA Downes and Braide remain in high demand.

Geoff has been pretty much flat out touring the world with Yes and Asia for the last few years. Any breaks have been filled up with other projects, including putting together some new Buggles ideas with Trevor (Horn). He is also writing film and library music.

Chris has been writing music for movies in LA, the most recent being a new animation called LEAP. He wrote “UNSTOPPABLE” for the Olympics with the artist SIA and has co-written and produced the new single for DJ Robin Schulz. He also wrote and produced a new Marc Almond album, due out next year as well as Marc's next single “Embers.” He produced a single for Elle King for a big ad campaign featuring Kendal Jenner, and is currently scoring a movie soundtrack at his studio in LA. He has written a song for Trevor Horn called “Sky Show” for an animation he was working on. With more new ventures, Chris has had no break this year, but wouldn't have it any other way.

To purchase:
CD: http://geni.us/DBA3
Digital:   http://geni.us/DBA3dig
LP: http://tinyurl.com/DBA3vinyl

For more information:
Official website: http://www.downesbraide.com/
Twitter: @TheRealDBAMusic

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

Friday, November 17, 2017

Progressive Rock Review: Alan Parsons Project-Eye In The Sky 35th Anniversary Box Set

Release Date: December 1, 2017
Label: Sony
Website



I think it is appropriate to kick off this review of the Alan Parson’s Project Eye In The Sky 35th Anniversary Box Set with an explanation of what encompasses this great tribute to this progressive rock classic.

A total of 3 CDs and a Blu Ray Disc:



CD1: Original Album Expanded + bonus tracks
 

CD2:Eric Woolfson's Songwriting Diaries
CD3: Previously Unreleased Bonus Material


Disc 4: 5.1 Surround Sound and Stereo HD version of the original album on Blu-ray.

Also included are 2 vinyl LPs of the original album recorded at half speed on four sides at 45rpm at Abbey Road Studios by Miles Showell, a flexi-disc replica of an original 1982 promo (remember getting those in magazines long ago?), a 60-page hardcover book featuring newly-written essays, previously unreleased images recently discovered in Eric Woolfson’s personal archive and new interviews with many of the musicians who recorded the tracks on the album, an Eye in the Sky 1982 replica poster and postcard, a gold-foil Eye of Horus stamp on the front of the box and more.

Most people that walk this earth have heard” Sirius” one time or another. It was dubbed as the Michael Jordan era Chicago Bulls theme song and then started to find its way into many other sporting events all over the world. In fact, I just heard it recently on a commercial.  It is a superb instrumental curtain opener that melts into the lead off album track. The aesthetics are superb and the first thing that strikes you as “quality” is the gold stamped Eye of Horus on the outer sleeve of the box. 






Eye In The Sky was first released in 1982 and I remember it well. I had the cassette then eventually got the CD and now I possess the grandest version of them all. One thing to keep in mind, for the uninitiated, is that the Alan Parsons Project was very successful several years before this amazing album was released. It was part of the recordings that ushered in the digital revolution of recordings. At the time, that was a new wonder and now it’s just history. I think it is taken for granted by most of us, well those that can remember that far back or were even alive for that matter. Technology moves so fast today you don’t have time to really appreciate it before it is updated or completely changed.

There is so much to enjoy in this lavish box set. So, I had to break it down section by section to get the full-on effect of such a complex recording with all the new materials, pictures, artist notes, track developments and the several formats offered. The first thing that got my attention and great interest was the bonus track disc. What made it so interesting was how I could hear the beginnings of tracks. For instance, one track was with just acoustic guitar or Eric Woolfson humming. Although just a snippet it was a rare look into the very beginnings of a track. I got a few tastes of what it is like for an artist that starts from scratch with an album. I worked with a few folks, taking basic bare bones ideas and then gradually adding some meat.  It was an eye-opening experience, adding the instruments to get to the point where it stands as one solid piece of work. To be involved in that process is quite amazing and it gives you an appreciation and respect for the recording process that you never had. So, to take in the process of a musical genius like Alan Parsons and his main partner Eric Woolfson (who passed in 2009), really was quite a complete musical experience. CD2 Eric Woolfson’s Songwriting Diaries (Previously Unreleased) really gives a window into the beginnings of a song and Eric’s process.  This is also part of the accompanying book.

Then there is the pristine 180-gram LP’s that were remastered to play at 45 rpms to push the original tapes to their limit and produce the best possible sound on vinyl. I love vinyl but it seems like it ends much too soon, especially when you love an album like I do this one. I can’t seem to hear this music enough, I enjoy it that much and always have. When you hear the term “timeless” as a reference point, it is usually directly connected to artists like The Beatles and Elvis, however I have to give the nod to Alan Parsons on this particular release. This music sounds as fresh and invigorating as when I first heard it. In fact, it sounds better than ever listening to it remastered and on a 5.1 surround sound system.

The coffee table book is a nice addition to the set as well. It is jam packed with information from the people that recorded the music and remastered it. It is a great addition to read while listening. It brings a new picture into focus of what you are listening to like never before. It goes together like a hand in glove.



I have enjoyed many of the Parson’s releases over the years, in particular Turn of a Friendly Card and Tales of Mystery and Imagination. These were very different recordings however they are at the top of the list of my favorites from the Parson’s catalog coming right after Eye In The Sky. I think most music relates to different times of your life and for me it was one of the more exciting and transformational. I was discovering new music and traveling all over the world with the Navy. It is a time that matured me in ways I could have never imagined. Music was my best friend while out to sea for long periods of time. There was a peace and satisfaction I found on those open seas, and those feelings remain unmatched to this day. That is the joy I feel while reflecting upon my life listening to this amazing music.

If you don’t understand how this album came together after listening to all this music and reading the book then I suggest you do it more than once, you may have to anyway. My thought is, let’s give it another whirl, love it!

So, who knows what’s next from Mr. Parsons? Perhaps a world tour of this album presented on the stage fully backed by an orchestra with choreography and color? Or perhaps Cirque du Soleil performing with the music as their soundtrack? In the meantime, lets enjoy this great music presented in this box set.

5/5 Stars


Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
November 17, 2017

Founder of:

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk
Tracks:
 


CD1 Original Album & Expanded Bonus Tracks
(originally released 2007)


1. Sirius

2. Eye In The Sky

3. Children Of The Moon
4. Gemini

5. Silence And I

6. You’re Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned
7. Psychobabble

8. Mammagamma

9. Step By Step

10. Old And Wise
Bonus Tracks
11. Sirius (Demo)

12. Old And Wise (Eric Woolfson Vocal)
13. Any Other Day (Studio Demo)

14. Silence And I (Eric Woolfson Vocal)
15. The Naked Eye

16. Eye Pieces (Classical Naked Eye)

CD2 – Eric Woolfson’s Songwriting Diaries
(Previously Unreleased)

1.    Eye in the Sky (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 1)
2.    Eye in the Sky (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 2)
3.    Eye in the Sky (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 3)
4.    Eye in the Sky (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 4)
5.    Children of the Moon (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 1)
6.    Children of the Moon (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 2)
7.    Gemini (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 1)
8.    Gemini (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 2)
9.    Gemini (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 3)
10.  Gemini & Silence and I (Eric’s Songwriting Diary)
11.  Silence and I (Eric’s Songwriting Diary)
12.  Cooper’s Theme/ Silence and I chord beginnings (Eric’s Songwriting Diary)
13.  Cooper’s Theme/ Silence and I beginnings (Eric’s Songwriting Diary)
14.  Silence and I/ Fly Away  (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 1)
15.  Silence and I/ Fly Away (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 2)
16.  Old and Wise (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 1)
17.  Old and Wise (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 2)
18.  Old and Wise (Eric’s Songwriting Diary 3)


CD3 PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED BONUS MATERIAL & Single Edits

1.  Eye In The Sky (Ian 12-string Acoustic Guitar Out Take)
2.  Sirius and Eye In The Sky (Early Rough Mix)
3.  Eye In The Sky (Eric Demo Verses - No Lyrics)  
4.  Children Of The Moon (12-string Acoustic Guitar & Marching Band Snare Drum)
5.  Children Of The Moon (Early Rough Mix With Eric Demo Vocal)
6.  Gemini (Chris Rainbow Vocal Harmonies)
7.  Silence And I (Orchestral Take With Eric Demo Vocal)
8.  You're Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned (Rough Mix Section - Different Guitar Solo)
9.  You're Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned (Rough Mix with Alan Demo Vocal - Few Lyrics)
10. Psychobabble (Orchestral Take)
11. Psychobabble (Rough Mix With Eric Demo Vocal)
12. Step By Step (12-string Acoustic Guitars)
13. Step By Step (Rough Mix Backing Track - Extended Intro)
14. Old and Wise (Chris Rainbow Beach Boys Experiment)
15. Old & Wise (Eric Piano Track)
16. Eye in the Sky (Single Edit)
17. Old and Wise (Single Edit)
18. Psychobabble (Single Edit)

DISC 4 (BLU-RAY)

5.1 Surround Sound Mix (2017) 
Stereo HD version (1982)

1. Sirius

2. Eye In The Sky

3. Children Of The Moon
4. Gemini

5. Silence And I

6. You’re Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned
7. Psychobabble

8. Mammagamma

9. Step By Step

10. Old And Wise


VINYL (at 45 rpm)

Vinyl 1 Side 1
Sirius

Eye In The Sky
Children Of The Moon

Vinyl 1 Side 2

Gemini

Silence And I

Vinyl 2 Side 1

You’re Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned
Psychobabble

Vinyl 2 Side 2
Mammagamma
Step By Step
Old & Wise


FLEXIDISC

Excerpts from Eye in the Sky:
Sirius
Eye in the Sky
Psychobabble
Old and Wise

John Wetton & Geoff Downes' iCon Zero Now Available on CD and Download!


iCon Zero is a revised presentation of the Wetton/Downes album and is a precursor to their iCon series of albums. It is essentially a collection of tracks mostly recorded in the late 1980s through the time of their brief reformation in 1990.

The original version of the album was released in 2002 and in retrospect seemed like an iCon album from a previous era, so both John and Geoff readily agreed to it being brought into the iCon family. John came up with the name Zero, and both John and Geoff approved the new front cover artwork.

The album has received a 2017 remaster and includes two previously unreleased bonus tracks.

Geoff Downes reminisced about this time period in their joint career with these comments: Icon Zero brings back many fond memories of working with John back in the early-mid 80s. Despite being the principal writers for Asia, we both felt there was at least one other string to our bow. This manifested itself in later years as the Icon project, and this album is an insight into the inner workings of our early relationship, not just as members of Asia, but also as songwriters. These recordings were made largely at weekends when we rented demo studios to try out our ‘other’ ideas and simply - have some fun time away from the pressures of the music business. Most of these songs were put together in a few hours, and written on the fly. Then, they were recorded straight down that same day. One great aspect of this was, we always seemed came up with something new, and as the inspiration flowed it was captured there and then even in its embryonic form. 

Sadly John Wetton passed away in January 2017, but this release was already on the cards, with his Estate and Geoff Downes approving it going ahead as originally planned.

Geoff Downes had these further comments about his late bandmate: “John was a genius in every sense of the word, and I am most privileged to have been a big part of his career. The Icon project in itself stands alone as a complete cycle of our work together, and this album (Icon Zero) displays an important part of that development. The great John Wetton’s unique presence can be felt on every note and lyric of these songs. Please enjoy.”

iCon Zero will be followed by definitive edition re-releases of the subsequent three iCon albums, with bonus tracks, during 2018 with Geoff Downes’ personal approval.

To purchase John Wetton & Geoff Downes iCon Zero:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/icon0
iTunes: http://geni.us/icon0dig

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

The Ed Palermo Big Band Releases The Adventures of Zodd Zundgren, a Dizzying and Ingenious Reinvention of Music by Frank Zappa and Todd Rundgren!


Featuring Zappa Vocal Legend Napoleon Murphy Brock!

Ed Palermo may have gained an international following with his ingenious orchestral arrangements of Frank Zappa tunes, but he’s hardly a one-trick pony. Earlier in the year, the saxophonist released an uproarious double album The Great Un-American Songbook Volumes 1 & 2, a project celebrating an expansive roster of songs by successive waves of British invaders, from the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Jeff Beck to King Crimson, Traffic, and Jethro Tull.

With his new big band project, slated for release on Cuneiform Records on October 6, 2017, Palermo is back on his home turf, but the landscape feels strange and uncanny. He’s reclaiming the Zappa songbook, filtering Frank through the emotionally charged lens of the polymathic musical wizard Todd Rundgren in a wild and wooly transmogrification, The Adventures of Zodd Zundgren. Working with the same stellar cast of players, Palermo somehow captures the essence of these iconoclastic masters, making Zappa Zappier and Todd more Rundgrenian.

He sees the Zappa and Rundgren as embodying a ying and yang approach to life that played an essential role in helping him navigate the minefields of teenage angst in the 1960s. “For most of my high school days my favorite musicians were Zappa and Todd Rundgren,” Palermo says. “Rundgren had his songs about self-pity, which were exactly what I needed back then. I’d go out with a girl and whatever party I brought her to she’d go and hang out with another dude. Todd understood. At the same time, Zappa had these snarky songs like ‘Broken Hearts are for Assholes.’ It was tough love. You gotta broken heart? Deal with it. Todd Rundgren’s music was there to give you a hug. I wanted to contrast the hard-bitten Zappa followed by a bleeding heart Rundgren ballad.”

Though the title suggests a forced merger, The Adventures of Zodd Zundgren doesn’t mashup the oeuvres of the two masters. Rather, the album mostly alternates between the composers, creating a deliciously dizzying whipsaw as the two diametrical stances sometimes blur or even switch. Zappa’s soaring fanfare “Peaches En Regalia” is more inspirational than smarmy, with a particularly eloquent alto sax solo by Cliff Lyons, while a brisk and forthright version of Rundgren’s “Influenza” showcases the muscular lyricism of violinist Katie Jacoby, one of the orchestra’s essential voices.

Palermo reaches deep into the Rundgren songbook for “Kiddie Boy,” a stinging blues from 1969’s Nazz Nazz, the seminal second release by his underappreciated band Nazz (an album which originally bore the Zappaesque title Fungo Bat). Drawing directly from the maestro’s original horn arrangement, Palermo displays some impressive guitar work on a vehicle for Bruce McDaniel’s blue-eye vocals. Napoleon Murphy Brock delivers a poker-faced rendition of Zappa’s surreal “Montana,” the tune that turned a generation on to the lucrative potential of floss farming, and McDaniel and Brock join forces on Rundgren’s deliriously silly “Emperor of the Highway,” an homage to Gilbert and Sullivan.

The contrasting sensibilities of the Zundgrens comes into sharp focus in the center of the album. While Palermo has recorded Zappa’s “Echidna’s Arf (Of You)” this time he replaces the horns with McDaniel’s intricately layered vocals via the miracle of multi-tracking. From Zappa’s playfully odd metered work out the big band saunters into Rundgren’s greatest ballad “Hello It's Me,” an arrangement for McDaniel’s most impassioned crooning based on the original version from 1968 album Nazz (not the hit from his solo Something/Anything? album).

Tenor saxophonist Bill Straub swaggers through Rundgren’s “Wailing Wall,” which is sandwiched between two slices of Zappa at his snarky best, “Big Swifty Coda” and “Florentine Pogen,” another superb feature for Brock. Palermo spotlights a dark and wondrous Zappa obscurity with “Janet's Big Dance Number,” a brief piece recovered from 200 Motels featuring Ben Kono’s noir tenor solo. From that unified hedgehogian arrangement Palermo unleashes the multifarious fox on Rundgren’s “Broke Down and Busted,” a portmanteau arrangement that touches on Rundgren’s “Boat on the Charles,” the Ramsey Lewis hit “The ‘In’ Crowd,” Zappa’s “Brown Shoes Don’t Make It,” and even traces of Steely Dan’s “Pretzel Logic.” It’s a tour de force that feels like stream of consciousness journey, though the id truly emerged on the closing hidden track. In what has become a Palermo tradition, he includes yet another version of an enduring lament about the difficulties of relationships, arranged this time in Nazzian style by McDaniel.

The seamless ease with which Palermo and his crack crew navigate between the Zappa and Rundgren shouldn’t come as a surprise. Over the years Zappa’s music has proven supremely pliable in Palermo’s capable hands, as evidenced further by a recent concert at Iridium that paired his songs with standards indelibly linked to Ol’ Blue Eyes (is there an album The Adventures of Zinatra in the future?). Everything he brings into the big band is a labor of love.

“Todd Rundgren holds a very special place in my heart,” Palermo says. “I realized I was in love with my girlfriend (now wife) listening to his album Something/Anything? It was about 2 years ago doing our regular hit at The Falcon that I decided to have Zodd Zundgren night. A lot of people who like the music of Zappa also like Rundgren and Steely Dan, but there are enough Steely Dan cover bands out there.”

Born in Ocean City, New Jersey on June 14, 1954, Palermo grew up in the cultural orbit of Philadelphia, which was about an hour drive away. He started playing clarinet in elementary school, and soon turned to the alto saxophone. He also took up the guitar, and credits his teenage obsession with Zappa to opening his ears to post-bop harmonies and improvisation.

Palermo caught the jazz bug while attending DePaul University, and took to the alto sax with renewed diligence inspired by Phil Woods, Cannonball Adderley, and Edgar Winter (the subject of an upcoming EPBB project). Before he graduated he was leading his own band and making a good living as a studio player recording commercial jingles. But like so many jazz musicians he answered New York’s siren call, moving to Manhattan in 1977. After a year of playing jam sessions and scuffling Palermo landed a coveted gig with Tito Puente, a four-year stint that immersed him in Afro-Cuban music.

An encounter with trumpeter Woody Shaw’s septet at the Village Vanguard in the late 1970s stoked his interest in writing and arranging for larger ensembles, and by the end of the decade he had launched a nine-piece rehearsal band with five horns. Between Don Sebesky’s well-regarded book The Contemporary Arranger and advice from Dave Lalama and Tim Ouimette, “I got a lot of my questions answered and I’ll love them forever,” Palermo says. “Then the real education was trial and error. I lived in a little apartment with no TV or furniture. All I had was a card table, and once a week I’d rehearse my nonet, then listen to the cassette of the rehearsal and make all the changes.”

Palermo made his recording debut in 1982, an impressive session featuring heavyweights such as David Sanborn, Edgar Winter and Randy Brecker. As a consummate studio cat and sideman, he toured and recorded with an array of stars, including Aretha Franklin, Eddie Palmieri, Celia Cruz, Lena Horne, Tony Bennett, Mel Tormé, Lou Rawls, Melba Moore, The Spinners, and many others. As an arranger, he’s written charts for the Tonight Show Band, Maurice Hines, Eddy Fischer, and Melissa Walker. Employed frequently by bass star Christian McBride for a disparate array of projects, Palermo has written arrangements for a James Brown concert at the Hollywood Bowl, a Frank Sinatra tribute featuring Kurt Elling, Seth McFarland, and John Pizzarelli, and a 20-minute medley of Wayne Shorter tunes for the New Jersey Ballet.

Palermo had been leading his big band for more than a decade before the Zappa concept started coming together. Inspired by electric guitar master Mike Keneally, who performed with Zappa on some of his final concerts before his death in 1993, Palermo decided to arrange a program of 12 Zappa tunes. When the time came to debut the material at one of the band’s regular gigs at the Bitter End in early 1994, a sold-out crowd greeted the band.

He earned international attention with the ensemble’s 1997 debut The Ed Palermo Big Band Plays Frank Zappa on Astor Place Records, which received a highly-prized 4-star review from DownBeat. With Palermo’s brilliant arrangements and soloists such as Bob Mintzer, Chris Potter, Dave Samuels, Mike Stern, and Mike Keneally, the album made an undisputable case for the Zappa jazz concept. In 2006 he released another collection of Zappa arranged for his jazz big band, called Take Your Clothes Off When You Dance, on Cuneiform, thus beginning an ongoing collaboration with that label. While Palermo has written more than 300 Zappa charts, he’s cast an increasingly wide net for material. Recent releases like 2014’s Oh No! Not Jazz!!, 2016’s One Child Left Behind and 2017’s The Great Un-American Songbook Volumes 1 & 2 - all on Cuneiform and all recipients of DownBeat’s coveted 4-star ratings - featured a bountiful selection of his original compositions and material by composers not named Frank Zappa.

Nothing demonstrates the ensemble’s ongoing vitality better than the stellar cast of players, with longtime collaborators such as violinist Katie Jacoby, baritone saxophonist Barbara Cifelli, drummer Ray Marchica, and keyboardist Ted Kooshian. Many of these top-shelf musicians have been in the band for more than a decade, and they bring wide-ranging experience, expert musicianship and emotional intensity to Palermo’s music.

The band’s following continues to expand with its monthly residency at Iridium and bi-monthly gigs at The Falcon. In addition, performances (some headlining) at jazz festivals across the USA are winning new fans of all ages for the band. Palermo’s profile in the jazz press is also rising fast, with articles and feature stories appearing this past year in such publications as Jazz Times and Jazziz. Regarding recordings, albums by The Ed Palermo Big Band have been critically acclaimed and also embraced by the general public-jazz and rock fans alike. Palermo has already recorded dozens of new tracks for The Great Un-American Songbook Volumes 3 & 4, and is hoping Zodd Zundgren helps introduce Rundgren’s ingenious, heartfelt music to a new generation.

To purchase Ed Palermo's The Adventures of Zodd Zundgren:
http://a.co/30Oggdq
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-adventures-of-zodd-zundgren/id1281745553
https://cuneiformrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-adventures-of-zodd-zundgren
http://www.waysidemusic.com/Music-Products/Palermo-Ed-The-Adventures-Of-Zodd-Zundgren__Rune-spc-440.aspx

For more information on The Ed Palermo Big Band
http://www.palermobigband.comhttp://www.facebook.com/palermobigband - Twitter: @palermobigband
http://www.cuneiformrecords.com - Twitter: @cuneiformrecord

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

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Funktronic Icon DĀM-FUNK Remixes Track From New Todd Rundgren Album!


Los Angeles, CA - When legendary producer/songwriter Todd Rundgren went looking for special guests to collaborate with on his newest album White Knight (released 5/12/17 by Cleopatra Records) one of the more surprising yet enormously successful choices was electro R&B superstar DāM-FunK. The two collaborated on the stellar track “I Got Your Back,” fusing Rundgren’s jazz art rock with DāM’s ultra smooth e-piano grooves. Now, DāM returns to the track and offers up a new vision of their collaboration, a “Re-Freak” that adds more bottom heavy synths and new vocals sung by DāM. The result is a delight for fans of both Todd and DāM and is currently available on all digital platforms courtesy of Cleopatra Records.

About their collaboration, DāM had this to say, “Working with one of my heroes in music was a genuine pleasure. His progressive mind when it comes to all things music, without losing his soul in it, is such an inspiration to me and in what I humbly try to contribute to music listeners and aspire to. As the song says, ‘I got your back, Todd.’”

As a bonus, the digital single will come with a special “b-side” - the first downloadable release of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s remix of their Rundgren collab “Deaf Ears!”

Fresh off his latest run with Ringo Starr which ends tomorrow, November 16, Todd continues his “White Knight” headline tour beginning November 17 and ending New Year’s Eve at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills. For more info on the tour, visit: http://www.todd-rundgren.com/tr-tour.html

Track List:
1. I Got Your Back (Dam-Funk Re-Freak)
2. Deaf Ears (Nine Inch Nails Mix)

Stream the digital single: http://open.spotify.com/album/6WKHsJIP1FNJaRw8OewNIo

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

CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025

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Monday, November 13, 2017

The Strawbs Release New Album "The Ferryman's Curse"


The first Strawbs album of new material in eight long years!

London - Esoteric Antenna is very pleased to announce the release of “The Ferryman's Curse,” the first Strawbs album of new material in eight long years. It is produced by the legendary Chris Tsangarides, whose studio is littered with diamond, platinum, and gold discs by the likes of Thin Lizzy, Judas Priest and guitar virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen.

“The Ferryman's Curse,” the title track of the album, is the epic sequel to “The Vision Of The Lady Of The Lake,” from Strawbs album Dragonfly, rated by producer Tony Visconti as one of his Top six productions alongside albums by David Bowie and T Rex. “The Nails From The Hands Of Christ” is a challenging look at the relationship that young people have with the church. “The Familiarity Of Old Lovers” will raise eyebrows, both lyrically and with its twin lead guitar solos, while “The Song Of Infinite Sadness” is not what it appears to be.

The current Strawbs line-up comprises David Cousins, lead guitarist Dave Lambert, bass player Chas Cronk, and drummer Tony Fernandez, who recorded and toured together in the 1970s. They are joined by keyboard and guitar virtuoso Dave Bainbridge of Iona - a band who created a mystical blend of rock, folk, Celtic and ambient music - a perfect match for Strawbs.

Tracks
1 In the Beginning
2 The Nails from the Hands of Christ
3 The Song of Infinite Sadness
4 The Familiarity of Old Lovers
5 When the Spirit Moves
6 The Ten Commandments
7 The Reckoning
8 The Ferryman's Curse
9 Bats & Swallows
10 We Have the Power

To order The Strawbs “The Ferryman's Curse”: 
Cherry Red webstore: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/the-ferrymans-curse/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ferrymans-Curse-Strawbs/dp/B075TSFKJP

The Strawbs official website: www.strawbsweb.co.uk/

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

Saturday, November 11, 2017

EXCALIBUR IV - THE DARK AGE OF THE DRAGON The Rock Opera Album Feat. Members of Jethro Tull, Saga, Uriah Heep, Curved Air, Clannad, Supertramp and others! OUT NOW!


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.

Released on Babaika Productions, via Cherry Red Records, the album features appearances by:
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)

Excalibur – the legendary rock opera is back!
After a thousand years of imprisonment, Merlin – the wizard – finally escapes from Morgana’s spell. Initially intrigued by the beauty of the new world that he returned to, he soon discovers the decay of knightly and sublime virtues, which once had been so bravely defended by King Arthur’s roundtable. An enraged Merlin casts his biggest spell over this world and brings the mighty dragon to life. A epic return of the legendary Celtic rock opera on to German stages, a new chapter in the saga around the sword Excalibur – this is “EXCALIBUR - The Dark Age Of The Dragon”.

A trailer for the album can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4rRmUpT3xs

Track List:

1. THE WINGS OF THE DRAGON
2. ALONE
3. STONEHENGE
4. I’M NOT THE ONLY ONE
5. CALLING FOR YOU
6. DON’T BE AFRAID
7. SILVER MOON
8. DREAMERS
9. THE LAST LAMENT OF A FAIRY
10. THE NEW TIMES
11. FORGET YOUR SORROW
12. THE FIFTH SEASON
13. THE PASSION
14. I WILL BE FOR EVER
15. BEHIND THE MIST
16. YOU DON’T KNOW
17. YOU ARE THE SUNSHINE
18. THERE IS SOMEONE
19. DUN AENGUS II

To purchase EXCALIBUR IV:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/Excal4
iTunes: http://geni.us/Excal4dig

For more information:
Official Excalibur Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Excalibur.The.Celtic.Rock.Opera/ ;
Alan Simon's official website: http://www.alansimononline.com/eng.html ;
Excalibur is represented by Daniel Earnshaw of QEDG Management DANIEL@QEDG.CO.UK
Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Photo by Christian Roch

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Sound of Contact's Dave Kerzner Releases New Studio Album "Static" Feat. Members of Genesis, Big Big Train, Porcupine Tree and others! OUT NOW!


Miami, Florida – Dave Kerzner, co-founder of the progressive rock group Sound of Contact, has released his second solo album “Static” with a physical CD version available in mid-October. “Static”. The album is the follow up to his highly acclaimed debut album “New World”. Joining him are special guests Steve Hackett (Genesis), Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Nick D’Virgilio (Big Big Train), Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree) and more in addition to his core group consisting of guitarists Fernando Perdomo and Randy McStine, fellow SOC band mate Matt Dorsey and drummer Derek Cintron.

“Static” is a “progressive rock opera” about the clutter and chaos in modern everyday life. It boldly navigates through subjects ranging from noise in our heads of ego, jealousy, technological distractions, substance abuse and narcissism to profiling the hypocritical and corrupt characters in politics, media and society today.

With a bit of dark humor, sarcasm and a retro-future dystopian view, with rich imaginative artwork created by Ed Unitsky, “Static” merges elements of a twisted Broadway musical with familiar vintage rock flavors like that of King Crimson's “Red” or Genesis' “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.” Other strong detectible influences include The Beatles, Queen, Radiohead and Kerzner's late band mate from “Thud,” Kevin Gilbert.

“I aim to bring forward some of my favorite qualities of classic rock and prog albums and blend it with something new that feels right today. “ Says Kerzner “I like creating memorable songs that tell a story in a melodic musical way. This is what I love about the timeless rock albums in my collection and my goal is to contribute to other people's collections in the same way.”

About working with Steve Hackett: “Having Steve Hackett guest on guitar again is a dream for me because I grew up listening to Genesis and wanting to play with a guitarist as innovative and melodic as Steve. I also love these sort of cross-generation collaborations where we meet in the middle of modern and retro,” says Kerzner.

Dave Kerzner and his band embarked on a US tour starting with headlining the ProgStock festival on October 14th in New Jersey where they performed all of the album “Static” live and then headed over to Chicago for the Progtoberfest at Reggie's on October 20th. From there the Dave Kerzner Band and fellow American proggers District 97 continue on their “Static-Vaults Tour” playing in other cities around the East Coast. In February 2018, the Dave Kerzner Band will be performing on Yes's Cruise To The Edge for the third time with plans to do a short tour of Europe in the Spring.

Dave Kerzner's “Static” is OUT NOW!



BIO:
Dave Kerzner is a singer, keyboardist, songwriter and producer from the US. He co-founded the Prog-award-winning rock group “Sound of Contact” with Simon Collins, son of Phil Collins, in 2009 and over the years has worked with artists such as Kevin Gilbert, Steve Hackett, Keith Emerson, Alan Parsons, Billy Sherwood, Jon Anderson, Steven Wilson, Joe Lynn Turner and more. His debut solo album “New World” featured the song “Stranded” which was nominated for “Anthem of the Year” in the 2015 Progressive Music Awards and it featured Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Steve Hackett (Genesis) and Jason Scheff (Chicago). Kerzner has released both a standard 1 CD and deluxe 2 CD version of his concept album “New World” as well as a live album and now a second studio album called “Static”. He continues to write and record with Sound of Contact as well as other musical projects.

To purchase: http://geni.us/Static

For more information: http://www.davekerzner.com

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

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

King Crimson To Release "Earthbound - 40th Anniversary Edition" Expanded CD & DVD!


Now available for pre-order - to be released November 17, 2017

King Crimson's “Earthbound - 40th Anniversary Edition” expanded CD & DVD is now available for pre-order and wll be released on November 17, 2017! “Earthbound,” originally released in 1972, was one of the earliest (if not the first) “official bootleg” released by a major rock band, consisting of a series of deliberately lo-fi live recordings of King Crimson's “Islands” era line-up on tour in the USA. When issued, because of its mid-price it was excluded from the main album charts in the UK but topped the mid-price charts rubbing shoulders with Jim Reeves & Mantovani. Atlantic in the USA didn't even bother to release it. By then, the band had broken up and the label had already been alerted to the likelihood of a new King Crimson line-up promised for later in the year. Like the later live album, “USA,” “Earthbound” remained unavailable in the early CD era, with both finally being released in 2002 on CD. Ironically this non-availability served to enhance interest in the album while DGM's live releases made fans aware that there was a larger story to be told of this line-up's history.

When Robert Fripp was asked to guest on the second Grinderman project, Nick Cave noted: “I wanted to work with Robert Fripp because he has done some of the most uniquely unsettling guitar work I have ever heard along with some of the most delicate and finessed. I grew up listening to a lot of the King Crimson stuff. The vinyl copy of the phenomenal live album 'Earthbound,' is one of my most treasured possessions.”

Featuring:
Boz Burrell: Vocals, Bass
Robert Fripp: Guitar, Mellotron
Mel Collins: Saxes, Flute
Ian Wallace: Drums

The new version of “Earthbound” features an expanded version of the original album on CD & DVD. As a series of stereo only/low-fi recordings, a 5.1 edition was neither possible nor appropriate. However, also included on the DVD of this release is the full performance from Summit Studios, captured on the same US tour in 1972, appearing in both new stereo & quadraphonic mixes, providing the only live surround recordings of this line-up. This release also features 15 minutes of material not included on the original mail order only CD of Summit studios as issued by DGM in 2000. The DVD also features the “Schizoid Men” sequence from the “Ladies of the Road” live album & a transfer of a 1972 vinyl edition of the “Earthbound” LP.

• “Earthbound” – is the twelfth release in the acclaimed King Crimson 40th anniversary series.
• The album has been expanded ON CD & DVD
• CD features an expanded 12 track version of the original 5 track album.
• DVD features the 12 track expanded album in 24/96 hi-res stereo audio.
• DVD also features the Summit Studios performance in a new stereo mix & in quadraphonic.
This is the only surviving multi-track performance from the 1972 tour.
• DVD features the album length “Schizoid Men” sequence of edits of 21st Century Schizoid Men taken from the “Ladies of The Road” live album
• A transfer of the original vinyl album completes the audio selections.
• Presented as a 2 x digi-pack format in a slipcase with new sleeve notes by King Crimson biographer Sid Smith along with rare photos & archive material.
• Continues the highly collectable King Crimson series.

To pre-order King Crimson's “Earthbound - 40th Anniversary Edition” Expanded CD & DVD:
http://shop.schizoidshop.com/king-crimson---earthbound--40th-anniversary-series-p1700.aspx
( Distributed via Alliance Distribution)

DGM website: www.dgmlive.com



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

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Effervescent Prog-Rock Ensemble Fischer's Flicker Releases New Album "Open 28 Hours"


Chicago - The musical mind of native Chicagoan Scott Fischer has been described as a colorfully symphonic amusement park. Whether it's a song-length concept piece, a full album, a rock opera or something else entirely, big bright melodies and ambitious composition always take center stage. As a contributor to Zappacast (the official Frank Zappa podcast), a performer in The Rod Stewart Experience with the legendary Carmine Appice and now on his seventh album, it's no wonder this latest release is titled “Open 28 Hours”: Whatever you're expecting from Fischer's Flicker, you're going to end up with more.

“Open 28 Hours” revisits the humor and camp of Fischer's previous musical bodies of work, and also maintains a musically mature songwriting style and Fischer's signature elastic vocals. Part prog, part power pop, part funk, part piano magic, part 80's extravagance and all at once endlessly intriguing, “Open 28 Hours” plays like a diverse mixtape from another planet. Diversity is not only this band's strong suit, but its card to play in an industry where singular genres seemingly come hardwired in these days. Instead, Fischer's Flicker has something for everyone without kowtowing to trends or passing whims. Good songs are universal, and this is a record that's full of them.

Anchored by odd time signatures filled with sweeping arpeggios played in unison, “Spiders” still could find a home on rock radio thanks to its harmonious structure, while the obscure Kinks cover “No More Looking Back” honors its muse in keen Fischer-esque fashion. Album starter “The In-Betweener” rides high on a soul-rock groove, and although closing number “Zen” is far and away the album's most serene track, it does so in a way that still packs a punch.

Lyrically, relationships play a huge part in Fischer's storytelling, whether it's the acceptation of a fraught back-and-forth, a realization of being a victim to circumstance or an urge to run and hide, Fischer puts all on display in a way that's both vulnerable and brave. Mid-album cut “Smoke Signals,” Fischer's most autobiographical tune in the bunch, comes from an awakening that “no matter how many times in your life that you feel things have finally settled down or that have achieved some type of state of consistency, and then see just how many people have passed in and out of your life,” he states. “You wonder which of your friends will betray you further down the road. You wonder if someone is there to help you or hinder you or take advantage. And then the realization is that it's OK to have change. That starting over allows you the chance to learn from mistakes and create new memories.”

This is all without mentioning the nearly 10-minute epic “Mother of a Ship,” where an existential crises leads to a chance meeting with an alien who offers the protagonist all he can dream of in exchange for fellow humans who are taking up space. It's a premise that leads to discussion and questions on the listener's end, sprawled over a blissful, enormously enjoyable funk/prog backdrop.

Granted, Fischer's ideas are big and the delivery is equally so, but the ideas presented are mainly about the little things we can all do to stay happy (or at least, retreat from the darkness). More so than the length of time given, the first word in the album's title is key: These songs are open, in every sense. Taking it all in, like any great piece of art, is a process and if given the time, this seventh album pays off for the listener in spades.

To purchase Fischer's Flicker “Open 28 Hours”: https://goo.gl/eLg2eu

For more information:
www.fischersflicker.com
www.facebook.com/fischersflicker

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