Showing posts with label Jazz Fusion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jazz Fusion. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Progressive Jam-Fusion Supergroup PAKT Featuring Brand X Bass Legend Percy Jones Heading To West Coast USA Tour To Promote New Album “No Steps Left to Trace”

PAKT, a true super group of master musicians merging & colliding new music in the realms of progressive rock, electric jazz, experimental, ambient, psychedelic and beyond, is an experience as much as a musical project. An IMAX film for the ears, PAKT takes its listeners on an improvised sonic voyage with no preconceived destination, minimal pre-planning and little use for forms and conventions. Rare is the musician who can thrive in such a spontaneous environment but Percy Jones (fretless bass guitar), Alex Skolnick (guitar), Kenny Grohowski (drums) and Tim Motzer (guitar and electronics) are all up to the task. Armed with enough tastefully used effects to stock a small music store, Motzer and Skolnick create sounds so atmospheric and ethereal that one might not guess their source is a guitar. Meanwhile, Grohowski and Jones approach their instruments in textural manners that seamlessly intertwine with each other and the quartet as a whole. The music runs the gamut from highly sensitive to intense, with all four musicians’ listening skills so strong that their collective playing is as cohesive as it is unpredictable. Welsh bassist Jones (now a New York resident) is known for his tenure in the legendary jazz fusion group Brand X (whose classic lineup included drummer Phil Collins, yes that one) and extensive studio work (especially with Brian Eno). Skolnick is a diverse improviser whose jazz and world playing and instrumental associations (including bass virtuosos Stuart Hamm and Michael Manring) forms a Jeckyll & Hyde dynamic with his high profile as lead guitarist of the metal band Testament. Grohowski's many recent associations include John Zorn, a reincarnated version of Brand X and masked avant-metal outfit, Imperial Triumphant. Motzer has a long background in free improvisation, including the bands Bandit65 (with fellow guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel) and Orion Tango, plus many other recorded collaborations for his 1k Recordings label.

Before this album, all of PAKT’s releases had been taken from live performances. This studio session took place during the band’s East Coast tour in December, 2021. Primed from several successful shows in Upstate New York (including musician Daryll Hall’s thriving venue in Pawling, NY, Daryl’s House), the band took the day off in the Catskills Mountains, where they tracked live at NRS Studios. NRS is located in the home of musician/recording engineer Scott Petito, whose studio has hosted such luminaries John Scofield, Chick Corea and James Taylor. The PAKT musicians set up in a circle, all in the same room and performed, just as they would at a live concert. This began in the late morning and continued past dusk. By day’s end, they had accumulated a bunch of material—quite a nice document of where the band was musically back in 2021.

Tim Motzer, who produced this recording as well as providing artwork, says the following: “One of the things we all realized is that this band isn't going backward...it may be fueled by what we've done in the past, but really it’s a forward-evolving band composing in-the-moment, finding new language, and discovering our music as we go along. It's in that feeling that the title, ‘No Steps Left To Trace’, came to me because our music is a continuum, and more like a journey or an experience. We are, in a sense, tunneling or boring through the musical abstract toward and through to the ‘other side’.” Skolnick adds “From the moment we did our first performance together, it was clear that this project had a special chemistry that doesn’t happen all that often. The fact that we found this chemistry in our favorite Brooklyn venue, called Shape Shifter Lab, is fitting. It being the height of the 2020 Pandemic, that first show was streamed, with no audience present. Our first studio album ‘No Steps Left to Trace’, is a return to us just playing to each other, only this time, we have a number of live shows and touring under our belt, recorded in a high-quality studio. It’s a great document of PAKT in 2021.”

Live, of course, they have an audience that takes the ride with them. It is a real shared experience in that regard. Motzer curated five such journeys for the Live CD, one from Buffalo, three from NYC (Nublu), and one from Philadelphia. Adding the live album to the double release shows the growth and evolving chemistry in PAKT from the 2021 studio recording to the newer live recordings in 2023. It's a nice contrast with a lot of great interplay and listening happening from all the players. It also makes the album an excellent introduction to the band’s music for anyone new to it, as well as a fine addition to their discography.

PAKT
with
PERCY JONES - bass
ALEX SKOLNICK - guitar
KENNY GROHOWSKI - drums
TIM MOTZER - guitars, electronics

PAKT recalls the fearless attitude and daring approach that originally defined progressive music: where the magic of the moment always triumphed over preconception. Templates be damned ... this music blazes its own path! This is truly exquisite fare, serving as a reminder to aficionados of what initially drew them to this most creative, visionary of genres.”

WEST COAST TOUR DATES
Feb 01 - Seattle, WA (Funhouse)
Feb 02 - Portland, OR (Alberta Abbey)
Feb 03 - Eugene, OR (WOW Hall)
Feb 04 - Redding, CA (The Dip)
Feb 06 - TBA
Feb 08 - Mill Valley, CA (Sweetwater Music Hall)
Feb 09 - Fresno, CA (Fulton 55)
Feb 10 - Los Angeles, CA (Baked Potato, 2 shows)
Feb 11 - Los Angeles, CA (Baked Potato, 2 shows)
Feb 12 - Costa Mesa, CA (Wayfarer)
Feb 13 - Phoenix, AZ (The Rhythm Room)

To purchase PAKT “No Steps Left to Trace” (2CD, 2LP, 24bit Download):
https://pakt-moonjune.bandcamp.com/album/no-steps-left-to-trace

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Friday, August 25, 2023

Music Legends Soft Machine Release New Album “Other Doors” and Announce Forthcoming Tour Dates

Five years after the release of their last studio album, legendary UK musical institution, Soft Machine, return with a brand new album, “Other Doors.” Boasting new material and two numbers drawn from their extensive historical repertoire, “Other Doors” finds the band in their usual fiery form.

Featuring John Etheridge (guitars), Theo Travis (saxes, flutes, Fender Rhodes piano, electronics), Fred Thelonious Baker (Fretless bass), John Marshall (drums), Other Doors also features two guest appearances from long-serving bassist Roy Babbington, who retired from the band in 2021.

“Other Doors” was recorded at Temple Music Studios, a facility owned by the late Jon Hiseman during July and August 2022. It’s a location of which the band is particularly fond, explains John Etheridge. “Working at Jon Hiseman’s studio was special, especially with Ru Lemer who is a brilliant engineer. He’s fantastically quick and that’s very good as we record mainly live in the studio. It’s come out really well and I think it sounds great.”

That ability to work quickly on takes as an ensemble has resulted in a fresh-sounding series of top-flight performances whose typically knotty and sometimes complex themes frequently give way to explosively discursive improvisations. As Theo Travis observes, “The interesting thing about recording free improvisations is you're not playing to a plan or a grid or a blueprint, so you don’t know what's coming, and you don't know what's coming until it's gone. At which moment you're thinking about the next thing.”

The album is brimming with that fast-moving creativity. It’s been a kind of tradition with the group to include new arrangements of older Soft Machine numbers from the band’s illustrious back catalogue. These have included numbers as varied as “Chloe and the Pirates,” “Kings and Queens,” “Out-Bloody-Rageous,” etc.

Along with exciting new compositions, on “Other Doors” they’ve revisited the very first album, originally released in 1968, to include Kevin Ayers’ “Joy Of A Toy.” Fred Baker, makes his studio debut with Soft Machine. A well-known figure on the Canterbury Scene not only is he the perfect choice for the group but he’s also a long-term fan of the repertoire.

The album also contains “Penny Hitch,” a track originally heard on 1973’s Soft Machine “Seven.” This features the first of two appearances of Roy Babbington who provides the bass lines underpinning Karl Jenkins’ composition while Fred plays the sinuous lead melody on his fretless bass. The pair also worked together as a duo on “Now! Is The Time,” a number originally based on a theme Babbington brought into the sessions, with Fred and Roy both adding and expanding the scope of the piece.

If the album ushers in a new member in the shape of Fred Baker, it also acts as a fond farewell to drummer John Marshall, who joined Soft Machine midway through the recording of 1972’s “Fifth.” At the age of 81 Marshall has decided to retire making “Other Doors” his final studio album with the group, and the final album of his glorious career. Indeed, Marshall is in whip-cracking form throughout the album bringing his trademark musicality and decisive presence. With “Other Doors,” he brings his distinguished career to a rousing conclusion.

Intense, celebratory, and consistently impressive. “Other Doors” is the sound of a group determined to press forwards with an integrity and sense of purpose that’s quintessentially and definitively Soft Machine.

Photo by Wolfgang Gonaus

JOHN ETHERIDGE - guitars
THEO TRAVIS - tenor & soprano sax, flutes, Fender Rhodes, electronics
FREDDY BAKER - fretless bass guitar
JOHN MARSHALL - drums
special guest
ROY BABBINGTON - bass guitar (tunes 2 and 9)

The updated tour dates are (with Asaf Sirkis permanently substituting John Marshall who has retired):

After the first world tour date in Toledo at the MoonJune Festival

Sep 29 - Toledo, Spain (Circulo de Arte)

North American Tour
Oct 04 - Sellersville, PA, USA (Sellersville Theater)
Oct 05 - Baltimore, MD, USA (Keystone Korner)
Oct 06 - New York, NY, USA (Iridium)
Oct 07 - New York, NY, USA (Iridium)
Oct 08 - Woodstock, NY, USA (Colony)
Oct 10 - Rochester, NY, USA (Lovin’ Cup)
Oct 11 - Syracuse, NY, USA (Average Joe)
Oct 12 - Albany, NY, USA (Linda WAMC)
Oct 13 - Quebec City, QC, Canada (Salle d’Youville)
Oct 14 - Quebec City, QC, Canada (Salle d’Youville)
Oct 16 - Ottawa, ON, Canada (Rainbow)
Oct 17 - Toronto, ON, Canada (Garrison)
Oct 18 - Waterloo, ON, Canada (Jazz Room)
Oct 19 - Detroit, MI, USA (Joy's Manor)
Oct 22 - Milwaukee, WI, USA (Shank Hall)
Oct 24 - Chicago, IL, USA (Reggie’s)
Oct 25 - Cincinnati, OH, USA (Ludlow Garage)
Oct 26 - Indianapolis, IN, USA (Irving Theater)

Europe:
Nov 05 - Hull, UK (Wrecking Ball)
Nov 06 - Kinross, UK (Green Hotel)
Nov 10 - Royal Tunbridge Wells, UK (Forum)
Nov 11 - Lewes, UK (Conservative Club)
Nov 14 - Milton Keynes, UK (The Stables)
Nov 17 - Luton, UK (The Bear)
Nov 19 - Exeter, UK (Phoenix Art)
Nov 23 - Katowice, Poland (Rialto Theater)
Nov 24 - Warsaw, Poland (Hybrydy Klub)
Nov 25 - Bydgoszcz, Poland (Kuźnia Klub)
Nov 26 - Poznań, Poland (Culture Ctr)
Nov 30 - Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg (Rockhal)
Dec 02 - Tilburg, Netherlands (Paradox)
Dec 03 - Zoetermeer, Netherlands (Boerderij)
Feb 07 - Guildford, UK (Boileroom)
Feb 08 - London, UK (Signature Brew)
Feb 09 - Canterbury, UK (Gulbenkian Theatre)
Feb 11 - Market Harbough, UK (Jazz Club)
Feb 18 - Farsley, UK (Old Woollen)
Feb 19 - Manchester, UK (Band On The Wall)
Feb 20 - Wolverhampton, UK (Robin 2)
Feb 21 - Brighton, UK (The Chalk)
Feb 22 - Cardiff, UK(Stepping Stones)
Feb 24 - Cheltenham, UK (DEYA Brewery)

More gigs to be announced, in the UK, Europe, Japan, South America as well another tour in the USA in the Summer of 2024.

To purchase Soft Machine “Other Doors”: https://softmachine-moonjune.bandcamp.com/merch/soft-machine-other-doors

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

Thursday, May 18, 2023

Fusion Supergroup THE FUSION SYNDICATE Returns With New Members And A Brand New Single Featuring BOOTSY COLLINS and BRIAN JACKSON!

Los Angeles, CA – In 2012, the world of fusion rock/jazz was shook by the introduction of a new supergroup of unparalleled musical virtuosos who came together under one umbrella for a blockbuster studio album. Both the group and its debut album were called simply The Fusion Syndicate, and it featured some of the biggest names in fusion including members of Mahavishnu Orchestra, Yellowjackets, Brand X, Soft Machine, and Spyro Gyra PLUS Yes, Dream Theater, King Crimson, Tool, Porcupine Tree, Hawkwind and more! Now a new single is released today with the first new recording from The Fusion Syndicate in over 10 years!

That new single, “The Bottle,” is unique in several ways. For starters, it is the Fusion Syndicate’s first ever cover song, a trippy, groovy version of jazz poet Gil Scott-Heron’s 1973 dramatic story of alcohol abuse in the inner city. Second, the track is the first to incorporate R&B and soul music flavors into the band’s repertoire driven by a stellar vocal from intergalactic superstar Bootsy Collins. In addition, joining Collins is multi-instrumentalist Brian Jackson, who was a member of Gil Scott-Heron’s band and performed on the original recording of “The Bottle.” Here, Jackson recreates the vibe 1970s soul jazz while bringing a modern flair that perfectly suits The Fusion Syndicate’s style.

Stream the single: https://orcd.co/thefusionsyndicate_thebottle

Could this be the first song from a forthcoming full-length album from The Fusion Syndicate? Stay tuned in to The Fusion Syndicate revolution to learn more!

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


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, INC.
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Cleopatra Records Store
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

Monday, August 29, 2022

Bass Virtuosos Alberto Rigoni and Michael Manring To Release New Album “Grains of Sand” on Sept. 15, 2022

Bass virtuosos Alberto Rigoni (solo, BAD As, Kim Bingham, Vivaldi Metal Project etc.) and Michael Manring (solo, Alex Skolnic, Steve Morse etc,) are glad to announce the release of their new album “Grains of Sand” on September 15th.

The album, fully instrumental, spans from prog to fusion, jazz, ambient and features Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, A-Z) on drums. Also, on some tracks the duo invited some bassists as special guests such as Billy Sheehan, Stuart Hamm, Adam Nitti and more.

Alberto Rigoni says: “After the release of ‘Song for Souls’ in memory of my father I said I was going to retire (at least for a bit) but well… I could not resist making an album with one of the best bass players in the world like Michael. Hope you will enjoy it!”

Michael Manring says: “Alberto is a prolific artist with a deep love of the bass. His enthusiasm is inspiring and it’s always a pleasure to work with him.”

The duo have already released two videos that you can view at the following links:
https://youtu.be/GuXJxlNYcBY (“No Escape” feat. Adam Nitti)
https://youtu.be/G5SjE0vRU54 (“Grains of Sands” ft. Billy Sheehan)

“Grains of Sand” will be available in digital, Digipack CD and limited edition tape/cassette! You can pre-order “Grains of Sand” at http://albertorigoni.bandcamp.com

For more information:
https://linktr.ee/albertorigoni
http://www.manthing.com

Released by Manthing Music BMI (© 2022)

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

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Canadian Instrumental Prog-Fusion Ensemble Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser To Release Second Album “The Seven Ages of Starlight”

Featuring Steve Negus (ex SAGA) and guest artists Jamie Glaser (Jean-Luc Ponty Band), Todd Sucherman (Styx), Michael Sadler (SAGA), Frank Wyatt (Happy The Man)

Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser was assembled piece by piece over the course of several years to record the music of Art Griffin. First with guitarist Kelly Kereliuk, then with drummer Steve Negus (best known for his work with Canadian rock legends SAGA) and finally with the addition of electric violinist Victoria Yeh.

Work began on what was to be the first album in 2012. Gradually as the musicians rounded out the lineup, the first album, “Visions From The Present” was completed. Released in 2016, the album comes adorned with a stunning Roger Dean cover. Roger also designed the AGSC logo.

Now, with the help of some special guest artists, Jamie Glaser (Jean-Luc Ponty Band), Todd Sucherman (Styx), Michael Sadler (SAGA), Frank Wyatt (Happy The Man) and keyboardist Sarah Westbrook, along with the core four AGSC members, the second album “The Seven Ages of Starlight” is now available!

The new album was written by Art from 2015 to 2017. Recorded primarily at his Artsounds Studio with the exception of the drums. Steve recorded his drums at his Blue Room Studio and when Todd Sucherman came on board to record two tracks, they were recorded at his studio in Texas. Most of the guitar and violin solos were recorded at Artsounds but after the Covid outbreak were recorded at the players residences and takes/retakes were done online. The album was mixed by Art Griffin with additional mixing done with Adam Fair at his Villa Sound Studio. The album was mastered by Phil Demetro at Lacquer Channel , Toronto Canada.

Says Art, “AGSC III is already written and recording is underway. We are essentially a Recording Act but the possibility for a gig or two and the recording/filming of the same could potentially come to fruition. Video footage is always being posted on our FB page.”

Definitely an album to be celebrated. Brilliant songs and amazing instrumentation.” - Stan Hillborn, Host of “Adventures In Plasticland”, 98.5 CKWR


ART GRIFFIN’S SOUND CHASER:

ART GRIFFIN
Songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Art started on guitar at age 10. Adding bass (his principal instrument) and keyboards through his teens, he hit the road for two decades. Now with a studio in his home, Art writes and records music at some point every day.

KELLY KERELIUK
Kelly has been playing guitar for 35 years. His knowledge of varying styles and techniques is impressive and is brought to the fore within the eclectic range of Sound Chaser. Kelly is also heavily involved with guitar instruction and session work. Other projects include Prismind, Lost Symphony and Negus. Kelly has also done a series of guitar clinics for Canadian music store giants Long & McQuade.

STEVE NEGUS
Steve needs no introduction in the world of drums and percussion. A veteran of the music industry, Steve is known as the ‘human metronome’ and was a member of Canadian progressive rock legends SAGA for 26 years. Apart from his AGSC duties Steve is busy in his studio writing and recording his second solo album under the ‘Negus’ banner.

VICTORIA YEH
Dynamic and progressive defines Victoria’s style. Classically trained, Yeh combines the purity of her musical heritage with the edginess of prog fusion. Yeh performs constantly and is also a devoted educator, teaching Classical and Improv violin internationally as a faculty member for Christian Howes’ Creative Strings Workshop.

“The Seven Ages of Starlight” is available in a gorgeous 6 panel digipak CD. Both signed with postcards and stickers and available unopened.

To purchase CDs and Merch:  
Facebook Page Art Griffin’s Sound Chaser - Click on Shop
Shopify site: sound-chaser-merch.myshopify.com
Downloads: artgriffinssoundchaser.bandcamp.com

For more information:
www.facebook.com/ArtGriffinSoundChaser

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Jazz-Fusion Guitarist Gerald Gradwohl To Release 6th Album “Episode 6” April 16 2020

Working at the highest international level of quality has always been a fundamental characteristic of the Gerald Gradwohl Group. He collaborated with Bob Berg, Gary Willis, Kirk Covington, Adam Nitti amongst others. Rooted in the quartet’s own unique approach to instrumental fusion, their sixth album “Episode 6” is a celebration of improvisation set within an exciting and colorful, sonic landscape of imposing compositions. As we have come to know from guitarist and composer Gerald Gradwohl, he continues to work with musicians who, aside from their extraordinary instrumental skills, also bring maturity and creative drive into both concert and recording situations.

“Episode 6” is no exception. Gradwohl’s sophisticated and stylistically diverse instrumental compositions conceptualize exciting musical interactions, and his approach not only continues to keep live recordings fresh and challenging but also fosters the intuition and spontaneity of the musicians, all consolidating the band’s highly dynamic sound. Gerald Gradwohl (g), Thomas Kugi (sax), Jojo Lackner (b) und Harald Tanschek (dr) have once again proved themselves to be an exceptional ensemble, unifying dynamic and intimate musicality with artistic intuition and emotional depth.  

Says Gerald, “Goal of the album was to capture the live sound of this steadily gigging band. We play live with this line up since years which of course influenced my writing a lot. The sound of the live band was the main inspiration, but I also tried to capture the existing vibes during the lockdown. My plan was to work on an album in 2021, but as the pandemic changed all plans and schedules, I preponed this project and finished the song ideas I already had during April/May…We recorded 2 days live as a quartet in one room and added a few overdubs later, so the result is as it would sound live. Recording live is one of my main concepts since years as all the records I made are some kind of snapshots. Moreover, I don’t like to make everything perfect - I love the idea that the listener can feel the energy and spirit of playing together as it would be onstage.”

When looking for terms and names to describe the band, the attempt will leave you with a wide spectrum between jazz and fusion music focusing on grooving funk with a strong “Rock ‘N’ Roll Attitude” mixed with Jazz harmony to fierce discharging jazz rock storms. There is no arbitrariness in this wide array of musical styles and influences, as the band selected team players from the international jazz/fusion scene – renders the stringent compositions in a committed and playfully individual manner, putting its high-quality inventive signature to the music and derives its uniqueness and independence from a sure, pro-active and listening interaction of experienced musician personalities. Gradwohl can jump into and out of the stylistic changes like a true chameleon. He has ventured further into exploratory fusion on this effort than on any of his previous efforts.  Having the support and backing of the great rhythm section has really made this venture for Gradwohl into tribal funk fusion a viable effort of world class caliber. GG pulls all the stops of his musical skills. “As much composition as necessary and as much improvisation as possible” seems to be the dogma and the point of view of fusion-music of today for this worldwide known and acknowledged composer and performer, living in Wr. Neustadt, Austria. The great variety in composition and playing will not only fascinate Jazz and Fusion lovers - watch out for exciting live gigs!  

The album “ABQ” (2003) feat. Bob Berg, Gary Willis and Kirk Covington was a big step in Gerald’s international career. Several albums and live tours have been the result of his continuous work. 2007 “Tritone Barrier” is released. On this album Scott Henderson contributes a guest solo on the track “Jeff's Back.” This album is followed by “Sally Beth Roe” in 2009 which he recorded with his Trio - this is a real guitar trio record! In 2013 Gerald released “Big Land” feat. Tribal Tech drummer Kirk Covington on drums. “RAW” (2016) is a critically acclaimed masterpiece of Jazz and Rock music and is the first release with his current band. The band is touring regularly and releases the new album “Episode 6” in April 2021!

Says Gerald, “I hope we can present the album live as soon as possible. My main goal is to bring the Quartet to as many festivals as possible, as we really ‘burn’ onstage. My next project is already in the works - I want to prove that it is possible to do a ‘remote’ recording by sending files back and forth and still creating a live atmosphere almost as we would play together in a room. I already did a few tunes with Kirk Covington and Adam Nitti and hope that I can finish this in 2021!”

Gerald Gradwohl Group:
Gerald Gradwohl - guitar
Thomas Kugi - sax
Jojo Lackner - bass
Harald Tanschek  - drums

Here’s what the press has said about Gerald Gradwohl:

Gerald Gradwohl is a serious, progressive jazz guitarist who spans a range of styles and influences within multiple jazzish genres from silky smooth jazz to rip-roaring fusion, always with intensive guitar work.” -  EER Music

A guitarist of extraordinary depth and sensitivity. Gradwohl plays with the same kind of abandon as Scott Henderson, and is able to portray the same gracefulness as Frank Gambale, showing a solid command for his jazz meets rock guitar stylings.” - Jazz.com

If you want your jazz rock fusion hard hitting and rough, yet well balanced and without the blinding restlessness of shredding, look no further.” - FUSENET

A highly skilled soloist, Gradwohl’s style combines the hip lines of a jazz player, with the technical proclivities of a shredder.” - The Guitar Channel

Gerald Gradwohl Group “Episode 6” Released on April 6, 2021 Label: gtone211  

To purchase: http://brokensilence.de/lnk/episode6/

For more information:
www.gradwohl.at
www.facebook.com/geraldgradwohlofficial
www.instagram.com/geraldgradwohl
www.twitter.com/gtone2700
www.youtube.com/geraldgradwohlmusic

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Monday, February 8, 2021

Guitarist and Film Music Mastermind Lyle Workman To Release Stunning New Instrumental Album “Uncommon Measures” on Feb. 19, 2021 on Blue Canoe Records

Epic Progressive Rock/Jazz Fusion Collection Features 63-Piece Orchestra recorded Live At Abbey Road Studios

Known both as a first-call sideman/session musician and a top-shelf film composer with credits including “Superbad,” “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” prolific guitarist Lyle Workman will release “Uncommon Measures,” his first solo album in a more than a decade, on February 19, 2021, via Blue Canoe Records. Featuring a 63-piece orchestra recorded live at Abbey Road under the direction of orchestrator extraordinaire John Ashton Thomas (“Black Panther,” “Captain Marvel”), the collection plays like the score to some epic film from an alternate dimension, mixing elements of progressive rock, jazz fusion, and romantic classical music with gleeful abandon.

“This record ties together all the different threads of who I am,” explains Workman. “It was four years in the making due to my film and TV schedule, but it’s really the culmination of a lifetime in music.”

Bursting at the seams with soaring arrangements and virtuosic performances, “Uncommon Measures” showcases not only Workman’s unparalleled musicianship, but also his profound empathy and expansive emotional vocabulary. The songs here are living, breathing entities, constantly growing and evolving in ways both subtle and drastic, and the production is similarly unpredictable, veering from larger-than-life bombast to whispered intimacy and back, sometimes within the very same track. The result is a record as extraordinary as it is unexpected, a captivating, transportive song cycle that manages to scale the dizzying heights of joy and sadness, love and friendship, self-discovery and celebration, all without a single word.

“Lyle Workman is a completely accomplished and inspired guitarist, musician and composer,” says Steve Vai. “He has a wicked command of the instrument and is perhaps one of three players I know of that can wield exotic orchestral compositions with either a screaming or whispering guitar. ‘Uncommon Measures’ is the masterful evidence of this.”

A California native, Workman’s musical journey began in the mid-1980s, when he joined the Sacramento-based band Bourgeois Tagg. The group landed a deal with Island Records and gained international acclaim for their hit single “I Don’t Mind At All,” a Workman co-write that helped earn performances on the Tonight Show, Top Of The Pops, American Bandstand, and their European equivalents. The band proved to be a launching pad for Workman, who soon began picking up gigs in the studio and on the road with the likes of Sting, Beck, Frank Black, Jellyfish, Todd Rundgren, Norah Jones, Bryan Adams, and jazz icon Tony Williams, who included Workman’s “Machu Picchu” on his final album, “Wilderness,” with Stanley Clarke and Herbie Hancock. Workman’s skills as a sideman turned out to make him ideally suited for the world of film and television, as well, and work writing commercial jingles soon gave way to jobs composing for indie films, which opened the door to major studio releases and a connection with Judd Apatow, who began hiring Workman to score many of his projects. To date, Workman has composed music for films that have generated over a billion dollars at the box office worldwide.

PURCHASING LINK:
https://www.bluecanoerecords.com/uncommon_measures.html

SOCIAL MEDIA:
https://www.facebook.com/lyleworkman.musician
https://www.instagram.com/lyle.workman/
https://www.youtube.com/c/lyleworkmanofficial
https://twitter.com/lyle_workman

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Saturday, December 12, 2020

Guitar Virtuoso Marcelo Paganini to Release Album “Identity Crisis” Featuring Billy Sherwood, Rachel Flowers, Lenny White, Chad Wackerman and Others!

Featuring special guests Billy Sherwood (YES/ASIA), Adam Holzman (Steve Wilson Band), Rachel Flowers, Lenny White (Return to Forever), Chad Wackerman (Frank Zappa Band), Jan Dumée (Focus), Marc Madoré, Karla Downey, Jamison Smeltz, Damilton Viana, Esdras Ferreira and Adriano Campagnani (Beto Guedes Band)

“Identity Crisis” is the new guitar virtuoso Marcelo Paganini prog rock jazz fusion album to be released on his birthday December 11, 2020. The album features special guests Billy Sherwood (YES/ASIA), Adam Holzman (Steve Wilson Band), Rachel Flowers, Lenny White (Return to Forever), Chad Wackerman (Frank Zappa Band), Jan Dumée (Focus), Marc Madoré, Karla Downey, Jamison Smeltz, Damilton Viana, Esdras Ferreira and Adriano Campagnani (Beto Guedes Band). 5 out of 6 songs of the album were mixed and mastered by Gudjon Sveinsson in Iceland. The single “Circus is empty” was mixed by Daniel Boivin in France and mastered by Maor Appelbaum in LA, California, USA.

“When Allan Holdsworth passed away all of a sudden it was up to me and the others to keep guitar composition and playing moving forward. ‘Do your own thing’ he said every time we met. Now Eddie Van Halen passed away as well and we realize how hard it will be,” remembers Marcelo Paganini about his intentions when he started this project. “I changed the tuning of the guitar so I could not repeat anything I knew before. I decided to only use in the whole album, except for acoustic 12 string intros, the black guitar X-Ing Ibanez, no vibrato bar, bare bones. And to record just one guitar per track, to be able to play it live and sound like the album, or better. When live concerts will come back.”

The music on “Identity Crisis” mixes up the best influences from classic prog rock, with unexpected contemporary harmonic solutions and melodic turns. The songs can break loose by surprise in furious jazz fusion improvisations. As impressive as the casting in the album can be, and it is, the incredible alchemy that happened between Marcelo Paganini and Rachel Flowers in 4 out of 6 songs,  at the 11th hour, was a game changer in the intensity of that musical language. Mr Bowler Music Agency in the Netherlands is booking Marcelo Paganini Band featuring Rachel Flowers.

TRACK LIST:
Bacteria
Circus is empty
Soul much further away
Learn to love to wait
Tangerine way
Captain's face

Released December 11, 2020

To purchase: https://marcelopaganini.bandcamp.com/

For more information:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Marcelo-Paganini-13255032254/
YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/user/MarcelloPaganini
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/marcelopaganini.ic/

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

Booking: Mr Bowler Music Agency
Sumatrastraat 19a
5215AX s-Hertogenbosch
The Netherlands
arne@mrbowlermusicagency.nl  Phone: +31652881212

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Art Rock/Contemporary Jazz Artist Potter's Daughter to Release New EP “Casually Containing Rage” On September 15, 2020!


The EP will be available digitally, and on CD!

VA - Art Rock/Contemporary Jazz artist Potter's Daughter to release EP “Casually Containing Rage” on September 15, 2020! The EP will be released by MRR and available both digitally, and as a CD.

Potter's Daughter released their debut album, “The Blind Side,” in August 2018. In 2019 they released two singles; “Blood and Water,” featuring Annie Haslam (Renaissance) as guest artist, and the holiday single, “This Winter’s Child,” which was composed for the “MRR Holiday” album.

In March 2020 they went on tour with MRR labelmate Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius and Dark Beauty. They were also invited to participate in several online festivals, including The Uncancelled Music Festival (April), The WorldWide Prog and Rock Virtual Festival (May), and most recently, the prestigious ProgStock Festival. (August).

“Casually Containing Rage” features three songs:

1. To My Love - a completely new arrangement of their song from their debut album, The Blind Side
2. Accidentally Like A Martyr- a beautiful rendition of Warren Zevon’s song from his album, Excitable Boy
3. We Could Be - a powerful and moving song dealing with racial injustice, featuring NPR radio broadcasts about George Floyd and Ahmaud Abery.

Filmmaker Serena Künzler has created a striking video for the song “We Could Be,” which was premiered during Potter’s Daughter’s set at ProgStock 8/29/2020.

1. To My Love (DPV, JCV)
Dyanne Potter Voegtlin-vocals
Amit Chatterjee-guitar
Jan-Christian Vögtlin-bass
Patrick Carmichael-drums
Tom Borthwick-soundscaping

2. Accidentally Like A Martyr (Warren Zevon)
Dyanne Potter Voegtlin-piano, vocal
Jan-Christian Vögtlin-bass, guitar, drum programming

3. We Could Be (DPV, JCV)
Dyanne Potter Voegtlin-keyboards, vocals
Jan-Christian Vögtlin-bass, drum programming, guitar synth
NPR David Greene-radio broadcast

1. Produced by DPV, co-produced by Amitava Chatterjee and Joseph Wiggy Wegleski
2. Produced by JCV
3. Produced by DPV, co-produced by JCV and Joseph Wiggy Wegleski
 Mastered by Tom Borthwick

1.3. Recorded at SI Studio, Engineered by Joseph Wiggy Wegleski
2. Recorded, mixed at JCV Sound design



Potter's Daughter Online
Listen // Buy // & Share
Amazon: amzn.to/2qsUdKn
Bandcamp: bit.ly/2Mqk1PM
CD Baby: bit.ly/33JPG4E
iTunes: apple.co/2P1hTQm
Spotify: spoti.fi/35O57uo

Further Information Can Be Found At:
Website: https://pottersdaughterband.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PottersDaughterBand/
MRR Artist Profile: https://mrrmusic.com/potters-daughter/

Media & Booking:
pottersdaughterband@gmail.com

Label Contact:
Nick Katona, nick@melodicrevolution.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Friday, August 28, 2020

Guitar Virtuoso Marcelo Paganini to Release Prog Rock-Jazz-Fusion Single “Circus Is Empty” From New Album feat. Billy Sherwood, Adam Holzman, Chad Wackerman & Others


French-Brazilian guitar virtuoso Marcelo Paganini is releasing his new prog rock-jazz-fusion single called “Circus Is Empty” on 28th August 2020. Written, arranged and performed by Marcelo on guitar and keyboards, the track features Billy Sherwood (Yes/Asia) on vocals, Adam Holzman (Steve Wilson Band/Miles Davis) on solo keyboards, Chad Wackerman (Frank Zappa/Alan Holdsworth) on drums, and Adriano Campagnani (Beto Guedes Band) on bass. Daniel Boivin mixed and Maor Appelbaum did the mastering.

“I was daydreaming, thinking that after ARW (Anderson, Rabin, Wakeman) maybe it’s time for PSH (Paganini, Sherwood, Holzman)!” jokes Paganini from the studio of his old stone house in Catalunia, Spain. “It’s unbelievable that some of the best talents on the planet all agreed to participate – the whole Universe conspired to make it happen! All my steps led me to this old house in the woods.”

“Circus Is Empty” is the song people didn’t know they were waiting for. It blends the urgency of 2020 vibes and sounds with classic prog elements and furious jazz-fusion improvisation. The title is a tribute to Shakespeare’s The Tempest - “Hell is empty, and all the devils are here.” “Crazy times, the circus is empty and all the clowns are in power,” says Paganini. “There is a call to vote, if it wasn’t important they would not be trying so hard to discourage people.”

Marcelo faced an uphill task moving his studio from Normandy, France to Catalunia, Spain. Closed borders, an old laptop which struggled in the Spanish heat, a 300-year-old house which floods in the rain, and an album to finish. “It was 40 degrees outside, not that I could go outside while there was still work to do inside. Not to mention all gigs stopping overnight! It became so much that I had to ask my friends for help, but it taught me who my real friends are, and that I have the best friends around. Then I had to let some good old friends go too, I was too much trouble in too little time for them.”

His persistence has paid off though. “Identity Crisis”, which includes “Circus is Empty”, is due for release on all platforms, with an exclusive vinyl version on his Bandcamp page, on December 11th to mark his 56th birthday. “If the world is still spinning by then!” he laughs.



“I am trying to prove to myself that my last compositions are as good as the first ones... The prog scene is full of artists that wrote their best material many Dark Sides of the Keith Moon ago! Me too by the way, but seriously… Folks are you keeping your best songs for when they will offer a better deal? They won’t, so it is better to release your best material right now while we are all still around! Or else it may end in the trash can.”

“Why ‘Identity Crisis’? Who the Hell is this Marcelo Paganini guy anyway?” he asks. “I am trying to figure that out, for now I don’t even know what food to eat without getting sick... Let’s say for now that Marcelo Paganini is a French-Brazilian guy from New York City, with an Italian stage name, living secluded in the woods up the hill in Catalunia, Spain, that thinks he is a real Spitfire Dragon from Outer Space who crash landed on Earth some time ago...”

Billy Sherwood sings lead on the whole album, and on two tracks along with special guests Marcelo Paganini performed with on Cruise to the Edge 2015: Karla Downey and Jamison Smeltz. Jamison also provided a searing sax solo on the final track “Captain’s Face”, which was written for producer Larry Morand, who invited him to attend the 2015 Cruise To The Edge, about his life changing experience. “Of course I’d love to come back to Cruise To The Edge in 2022,” says Paganini. “It would be great to play live with this band at least once, Billy Sherwood and Adam Holzman are already on board, I bet Captain Prog Larry can make it happen!”

Among other surprise guests, legendary jazz Drummer Lenny White (Return To Forever/Miles Davis) recorded two songs for the album, including “Learn To Love To Wait” which also features Billy Sherwood on bass and Adam Holzman on keys. “I only played guitar on that one,” laughs Paganini. “With so many legends from other bands it’s the mother of all supergroups, but only if it happens without me, I was told. So, I had to let them play together without me for a few bars so it remains a supergroup at least there! I am trying hard to convince another legend to record a guitar solo in that spot!”

Marcelo lost his beloved rescue cat Don Juan in March 2019, and “it was then that things started to become weird fast. The French Cinema Archive CNC demanded a €15K 35mm print of my film ‘First time in Rio’ or I’d have to pay a €70k fine, an absurd situation as I couldn’t afford either. I couldn’t understand why, since they accepted a digital deposit of my film “The 8th Bullet” in 2007. I had to put everything I have on a truck and move to Spain last October. Here I will wait until French cinema people get me out of this. Meanwhile I am depressed, broke, in debt, away from home, family and remaining cats and did nothing wrong! Maybe the president of UNIFRANCE, the president of the CNC and the new Culture Minister of France Rosalyne Bachelot can get Kafka out of my reality? I feel like someone powerful did not want me to make any more films, but it backfired, since I am making a new film about all this.” The upcoming film is also called “Identity Crisis” and will use the album for its soundtrack.

“Then my credit card disappeared and I had no money to live for several weeks. All these events were eye opening experiences. They made me discover fundamental truths: only stupid people are afraid of dying, they are also afraid of living.

“I was bullied since I was little, most people in real life reject me, I am strange, different and proud of it, but harmless. The cat came to me, he chose me, that changed me forever, I learned a lot from him. My friends joke that Don Juan wrote most of the music and that I cannot really play it without him! Let’s just say that so many things happened ever since, that today no one can play that stuff  on the guitar, not even me, since I forgot everything. But don’t worry I am a fast learner”. Marcelo wrote most of the songs of the album with Don Juan around and “Identity Crisis” is dedicated to him and to Billy's brother Michael Sherwood that left us too soon last November.



Marcelo Paganini is now represented by Mr Bowler Music Agency in the Netherlands. Exciting news awaits for 2021…

Purchase link
https://marcelopaganini.bandcamp.com/

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/Marcelo-Paganini-13255032254/

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/user/MarcelloPaganini

Mastered by Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering - California - U.S.A
http://www.maorappelbaum.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Fraudprophets Release Debut Album 'Poptosis', Allay Growing Industry Fears Of Jazz Fusion Takeover


The jazz-rock group is joined by Bob Reynolds of Snarky Puppy, guitarist Oz Noy, keyboardist Matt Rohde and Nashville fiddle ninja Jenee Fleanor

Los Angeles, CA - Fraudprophets (www.fraudprophets.com), a collaboration between multi-instrumentalist and composer Sean Halley and A-list drummer Nate Morton (seen weekly on NBC’s ‘The Voice’), are ecstatic to announce the release of their debut album ‘Poptosis’ on June 3, 2019. The new record seamlessly blends elements of jazz, pop, rock, country and 70’s fusion into tunes that feel uniquely natural together, a result of the long-standing bond between Morton and Halley and their decades-long careers on stage and in the studio…and the gin.

“It probably isn’t the best way to go about it, but we randomly started this whole thing one night by drinking cocktails to a click track”, said Morton. “Not having a plan ended up being a real blessing, as the snippets of music that came out of that evening were free-spirited and fun, and they were infused with personality and our love for each other as musical dorks.” Halley continues, “Nate and I love just about every kind of music, so nothing was off limits if it was a style we felt comfortable with. The same was true for the production - I like big-sounding records, so if we needed a ridiculous Beastie Boys-esque organ-and-drums breakdown for a
tune, I’d have to go figure it out.”

“The tones, the tunes and performances are stellar! It’s the best new instrumental music I’ve heard in ages!” session guitar legend Michael Thompson (Babyface, David Foster, Backstreet Boys, Toni Braxton, etc)

“ …the new CD is fantastic and really musical. All of the players are phenomenal - I love the entire disc, but my favorite tune is ‘Skronktastic’”. Drummer Greg Bissionette (David Lee Roth, Toto, Ringo Starr, Santana).

“This album is a total success from start to finish. The sound quality is nothing short of amazing! Check out ‘Poptosis’ and become a believer.” babysue.com May 2019

The band is currently putting together a musical unit to take ‘Poptosis’ to the next level live, and hope to play dates in the US, Japan and Europe in the coming year. The band keeps a presence on social media as time allows, so check out Instagram and Facebook for examples of their unique brand of musicality and good-natured humor.



The album will be available for pre-sale on May 27 and fully released on June 3. Links for the major online retailers will be available at http://www.fraudprophets.com/buy--poptosis-.html
when live.

For more information: www.fraudprophets.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: +1 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Saturday, April 14, 2018

Music Legend SHUGGIE OTIS Lets His Guitar Take Center Stage On A New Fusion Rock Album INTER-FUSION!


Features drummer Carmine Appice & bassist Tony Franklin!

Los Angeles, CA - Though most known for his soulful songwriting and gentle croon as heard on blockbuster hits such as “Strawberry Letter 23” and “Inspiration Information,” Shuggie Otis has long been held as one of the most innovative and tasteful guitarists to ever pick up the 6-strings, the “heir to Hendrix” as he is often called. A guitar-playing prodigy from an early age, Shuggie performed on stage and in the studio alongside his legendary father, bluesman Johnny Otis. Now, Shuggie has a new project that showcases just how mindblowing he can be on the pearly frets of his gorgeous maroon Gibson SG, an adventurous new fusion rock project called Inter-Fusion. The album consists of mostly instrumental tracks that groove and weave, taking unexpected turns in surprising directions but all anchored by one of the finest rhythm sections imaginable featuring drummer Carmine Appice (of Vanilla Fudge and Beck, Bogert & Appice) and bass player Tony Franklin (of The Firm and Roy Harper). In addition, keyboardist Kyle Hamood (of local L.A. rockers Them Guns) steps in as both a musician and producer of the album bringing the absolute best performances possible out of each player.

Reflecting on the recording process, Appice enthuses “This was one of the wildest sessions I’ve ever done in my career!” while Franklin had high praise for Otis, saying “Shuggie loved to jam, and was very open to everyone's input. He was not afraid to experiment and try new directions and sounds. I think the music sounds very fresh and alive.” Additionally, Hamood summed up his thoughts on this unique experience saying “Watching the songs come together over such a short period of time, and the diversity that each band member brought to the overall sound and vibe was truly magical. It was an honor to work and create with such a talented group of musicians.”

In a behind-the-scenes promotional video, shot by director Vicente Cordero, Shuggie likewise gushes over the project and his fellow collaborators saying in conversation with Cleopatra owner Brian Perera, “Wow! Did you know it was going to be this good? I know how good it is because I’m in the group. But you’ve seen a little bit of it, and I think you know, you feel the excitement, you hear how good these guys are. And they’re really serious, not just some jive cats!”

Check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/yXFg8zlXqHI

Inter-Fusion will be available April 20th on both CD, vinyl and on all digital platforms.



Track List:
1. Aphelion
2. Get A Grip
3. Ice Cold Daydream
4. Interlude
5. Woman
6. Sweet Surrender
7. Clear Power
8. V8

Buy the CD: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/shuggie-otis-inter-fusion-cd/
Buy the digital: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/inter-fusion/1362748941?app=itunes&at=1000lt9k

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
www.CleopatraRecords.com
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords/
Instagram @cleopatrarecords
https://www.instagram.com/cleopatrarecords/
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https://twitter.com/cleopatrarecord
Youtube @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCopQ0616Fpfrq8Gt0N-0zOQ
Soundcloud @cleopatra-recs
https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs
Dailymotion @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
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Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
https://open.spotify.com/user/cleopatra_recs
Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

Monday, January 29, 2018

Gong Expresso's New Album "Decadence" Available For Pre-Order!


Featuring Gong Alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe!

Montreal - Gong Expesso featuring Gong alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe with guitarist Julien Sandiford's new album titled “Decadence” is now available for pre-order!

Says Hansford, “ 'Decadence' is the title tune on the new Gong Expresso album. Here the word means 'falling away.' I hope this tune and all the music on the album somehow addresses this in an unadorned, direct way. When I play with these 3 musicians I am convinced there is something special happening, a coming together. Benoit Moerlen (vibes, marimba) and Francois Causse (drums, perc) and I began playing together in early 1977 in PM's Gong and our rapport is of the kind only long term relationships can provide. On the other hand Julien who is 25 has been alive less time than I have been playing with the others. Yet our musical relationship feels infinitely long. We are recording in two cities, Paris and Montreal. Francois' studio in Paris is a tuned percussion church and Piccolo Studios in Montreal is owned by Denis Savage who is co-producing with the band. He is known for his work with Celine Dion.”

Featuring:
Francois Causse - drums, percussion
Julien Sandiford - guitar
Benoit Moerlen - vibes, marimba
Hansford Rowe - bass



PM's Gong was a major branch of the massive Gong tree. In the mid 1970's drummer Pierre Moerlen separated from Daevid Allen marking an end to the Flying Teapot period and a powerful jazz/rock unit was formed and signed to Virgin Records. Pierre's brother Benoit Moerlen, Hansford Rowe, Francois Causse, Allan Holdsworth were core members. Many major guests joined them both on albums and touring. Mick Taylor, Mike Oldfield, and French violinist Didier Lockwood were key participants. Mike Oldfield occasionally used the PMG rhythm section for touring also calling on members for albums such as “Ommadawn”, “Incantations”, “Exposed” and “Platinum.” Pierre Moerlen sadly passed away on May 5th, 2005.

In concert Gong Expresso mines their huge repertoire and has exceptional guests joining them regularly. Along with the release of their new album, the band will be releasing a new video soon.

Gong Expresso's “Decadence” will be distributed digitally worldwide through The Orchard on Feb 20, 2018.

To pre-order Gong Expresso's “Decadence”: https://www.gongexpresso.com/store

For more information: https://www.gongexpresso.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GongExpresso
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDb7pRK9A-fBjZTbp3vbd_w

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

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Indo-Fusion Guitarist Rahul Mukerji's Debut Album "Ma De Re Sha" Receives Rave Reviews!


One of the most impressive albums of this year by Indo-Fusion guitarist Rahul Mukerji has been garnering enthusiastic reviews from the music press and fans alike worldwide! “Ma De Re Sha” was released in May 2017 and the response has been no less than astounding!

Says Rahul, “It has been an exhilarating experience seeing the positive reviews flood in and to see the album featured in prominent magazines and music outlets. I'm very grateful to the fans and people who helped make this album the success it has become.”

Rahul is a guitarist/musician based in Maryland, USA. Born in India, he has been performing live for over fifteen years. From dive bars and weddings, to crowds of thousands opening for the B-52s, he has had a varied performing career that has included gigs in Chicago, Boston, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and India.

Rahul has been featured on a wide array of recordings. His original pieces were featured in the short indie film “Tokyo Confidential.” His music was also featured on international and national radio stations and his compositions have been featured in various fractal and traditional animations videos and used in the official score for the Fractal Forums web episodes.

Rahul was featured in various publications like Songlines magazine, Pipeline magazine, and in 2008 Guitar Player Magazine Editors' Picks. He is also a guest Guitar Instructor on the Shred Academy website. In addition to music, Rahul is also an accomplished visual artist and regularly exhibits his work in the Washington metropolitan area. From the traditional to the digital domain, Rahul utilizes a wide array of mediums such as wood engraving, spray painting, pencil sketching, and computer fractal renderings.

From the source inspiration, to the concept, writing, arrangement, and its actual making, this project is truly a reflection of unity in diversity. This world fusion rock guitar album brings together flavors of Indian music, Middle Eastern percussion, jazz, ambient, rock, and metal. The compositions and the arrangements were inspired by interactions with people from different cultural backgrounds and walks of life, all filtered through the prism of Rahul's own multicultural upbringing between East and West. The actual making of the music involved coordination with musicians and mixing/mastering engineers living in the US, Germany, Spain, and France.



Here's what the press have been saying about Rahul Mukerji:

“His expressive guitar playing through 'Ma De Re Sha' demonstrates a dizzying range of technique and tone, while the compositions make a highly electrified fusion mix that borrows from Joe Satriani as much as John McLaughlin. These dynamic instrumental pieces stay most firmly rooted in rock mode, though it's an adeptly malleable one that always has room for exotic motifs. Mukerji's fretwork in any mode is fluid and buoyant enough to make his excitement contagious, and the result is an album happy to weave and blend all those elements until it's easy to forget they're so different at all.” - All About Jazz

“Indian born / Maryland-based guitarist Rahul Mukerji is making waves with his 2017 CD called 'Ma De Re Sha.' Rahul's music is very cinematic and his fleet fingered guitar work sounds influenced by masters such as Jeff Beck, Jan Akkerman and Al DiMeola.” - Pipeline Magazine

“Ambitious, varied and at times full of energy, 'Ma De Re Sha' has the feel of Indian cinematic music more so than Indian classical music.  And it is really good...the breadth of his interests and potential that makes this an exciting debut.” - Amardeep Dhillon, Songlines Magazine

“This cat can play. Many influences can be heard, but I want to give Mukerji more credit than that. He takes those influences, and in some cases, is an improvement over them. I highly recommend 'Ma De Re Sha' be listened to immediately and often thereafter.” - Walter Kolosky, Author and host of the Jazz Rocks Podcast

“...Perhaps the best parts of Mukerji’s playing are the emotional buoyancy and lightness of being that run through his writing and playing, even the heaviest parts. His melodies and grooves flow through the ears and leave behind a sense of bold and positive creativity. This makes him an emerging artist to contend with, one who should do well even beyond the guitar community. Buy this record tonight!” - Mike O’Cull, IndieBandGuru

“...a vertiginous mix of tasty colors. 'Ma De Re Sha' is a rapture throughout announcing the advent of a new force on the fusion scene.” - Dmitry M. Epstein, Let It Rock

“... twelve succinct tunes that showcase his compositions and chops, brilliant melodies and inventive arrangements, one foot in his Indian culture and the other foot firmly in American instrumental rock, drawing influences from both and freely superimposing them on each other...There's a lot of variety among these dozen cuts to absorb, all performed with impeccable power and precision.” - Peter Thelen, Exposé Online

“Mukerji combines powerful rock guitar hero licks with jazz-rock fusion, Middle Eastern beats and Indian music influences. He also uses a note bending technique that gives it a South Asian flavor and sets him apart from western guitar players.” - Progressive Rock Central

“Mukerji is an amazing guitarist and instrumentalist who is drawing comparisons to players as diverse and acclaimed as Joe Satriani, John McLaughlin, Al DiMeola and Steve Vai on his 13-track debut 'Ma De Re Sha.'” - Sights and Sounds of Note

“...an effective set with some impressive guitar playing” - Gary Hill, Music Street Journal 
 
“...a fusion album of the highest quality of musical excellence.” - Exclusive Magazine

To purchase Rahul Mukerji's “Ma De Re Sha”: 
https://rahulmukerji.bandcamp.com/
http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/RahulMukerji

For more information: http://www.mukerji.us

Video links: 
Youtube Channel Shortlink: https://goo.gl/GfCfj0
Album teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtlsgYBEBeI
FB page Shortlink: https://goo.gl/YYbPUe

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

Friday, December 15, 2017

Leonardo Pavkovic's MoonJune Records Keeps Progressive Jazz & Fusion Alive - A Labor of Love With His One Man Operation


As legendary composer/musician Frank Zappa once said, “Jazz is not dead, it just smells funny.” That statement could still describe much of the “jazz” music being released today. However, it definitely does not apply to MoonJune Records!

Brutally independent MoonJune Records, operated by no more and no less than one person only -  multilingual globetrotter and renaissance man Leonardo Pavkovic (whose main activity consists in USA and international booking of artists not on MoonJune Records, in the genres of jazz, fusion, progressive and classic rock) - has landed at the 4th place in the DownBeat's 82nd Annual Poll (2017). DownBeat is the most prestigious Jazz magazine in the world. In 2016  MoonJune reached the 7th place in the same poll. It's an achievement for someone whose main activity is something else, while running label as a labor of love.



In celebration the label is offering FREE DOWNLOAD of MoonJune Jazz Sampler IT MUST BE JAZZ, 25 jazz & beyond jazz tunes chosen from 25 MoonJune Records' releases between 2001-2017.

To download the sampler, go to the link:
moonjunerecords.bandcamp.com/album/it-must-be-jazz
Enter “0” (zero) to download for free.
Tips and donations are appreciated. And please tell your friends!

SPECIAL OFFER: If You contribute $25 You will receive a complimentary bonus: 5 album downloads. Only album on the Sampler qualify for this offer. You must contact MoonJune via e-mail (noanoamusic@moonjune.com) and make Your selection.

Direct download (in WAV, FLAC, M4A, MP3-320 formats): moonjunerecords.bandcamp.com/album/it-must-be-jazz
All albums available in CD and Download formats, and multiple titles are also available on vinyl.

​​​​​​​MoonJune Records, accidentally established in 2001 by the urge to help an old friend, the legendary late Elton Dean, is an unusual rules-breaking record label, navigating in territories of progressive music exploring and expanding boundaries of Jazz, Rock, Avant, Ethno, The Unknown and Anything in Between and Beyond. Beyond genres but there is always a great dose of Jazz, and as Allan Holdsworth (R.I.P.), Alan Pasqua, Jimmy Haslip and Chad Wackerman stated in their tune on MoonJune's seminal double live album Blues For Tony, no matter what -  IT MUST BE JAZZ!

​​​​​​​MoonJune Records is named after Soft Machine drummer Robert Wyatt’s famous 1970 epic “The Moon in June,” has already established a name for itself with “in the know” fans. Its focus is to release internationally-situated music by artists exploring the expanding boundaries of genuine, challenging, non-over-produced music that cannot be easily categorized into any specific format. MoonJune Records’ ongoing goal is to support music that transcends stylistic pigeon-holing, but operates within an evolutionary progressive musical continuum that places jazz at one end and rock at the other. The ever-expanding boundaries of these two musical categories have since come to include everything from progressive rock to ethno-jazz, from experimental avant-garde to jazz-rock, and anything in between and beyond.

Quoting Anil Prasad of Innerviews: This is a great overview of the ever-intrepid, genre-bending MoonJune label’s output that points towards, and far beyond, the jazz universe. The price is right. Download this thing and start a journey exploring one of the world’s most interesting catalogs of music.

John Collinge, editor of Progression Magazine says: Leonardo, the owner of the MoonJune Records label, is a guy often seen hobnobbing with the prog-rock and jazz-fusion intelligentsia at festivals and concert events worldwide — the man seems to know everyone, from everywhere. Small wonder that he’s a master at international networking with a globetrotting resume that likely boasts a king’s ransom in bonus miles.

Quoting the most recorded MoonJune artist, Belgian guitarist and composer Michel Delville (10 albums on MJR):  Leonardo Pavkovic is a discoverer of new sonic landscapes and a visionary manager capable of anticipating new developments in jazz and rock while maintaining his focus on the legacy of past revolutions. Because of his vision and erudition know no physical or mental boundaries, MoonJune might seem an oddity founded by a starry-eyed idealist, a rather utopian proposition in our increasingly prefab musical world. MoonJune is not just a record label pushing out alternative music. It feels more like a family of like-minded musicians keen to explore new grounds while collaborating with each other and engaging in a dialogue between the past and the present.

25 selected tune on IT MUST BE JAZZ sampler include:

1. Dwiki Dharmawan - Pasar Klewer (from the album Pasar Klewer)
2. Dusan Jevtovic - Yo Sin Mi (No Answer)
3. The Wrong Object - Saturn (Stories From The Shed)
4. Soft Works - Baker's Treat (Abracadabra)
5. Jason Smith - Up, Up And Away (Tipping Point
6. simakDialog - One Has To Be (Patahan)
7. Beledo - Marilyn's Escapade (Dreamland Mechanism)
8. Mark Wingfield - A Conversation We Had (Proof Of Light)
9. Vasil Hadzimanov Band feat. David Binney - Nocturnal Joy (Alive)
10. Talinka - Talinka (Talinka)
11. Doubt - The Invitation (Mercy Pity Peace & Love)
12. Iron Kim Style - Adrift (Iron Kim Style)
13. Soft Machine Legacy - Kings & Queens (Burden Of Proof)
14. Phil Miller In Cahoots - Press Find Enter (Conspiracy Theories)
15. Dewa Budjana - Erskoman (Joged Kahyagan)
16. Othello Molineaux - Havona (Gospel For J.F.P. III - Tribute To Jaco Pastorius)
17. Slivovitz - Barotrauma (All You Can Eat)
18. Savoldelli Casarano Bardoscia - The Great Gig In The Sky - Money (The Great Jazz Gig In The Sky)
19. Hugh Hopper - Some Other Time (Numero d'Vol)
20. Tesla Manaf - Counting Miles & Smiles (Tesla Manaf)
21. Wingfield Reuter Stavi Sirkis - Fjords de Catalunya (The Stone House)
22. Machine Mass feat. Dave Liebman - Centipede (Inti)
23. XaDu - The Place With A View (Random Abstract)
24. Tohpati Ethnomission - Mata Hati (Mata Hati)
25. Holdsworth Pasqua Haslip Wackerman - It Must Be Jazz (Blues For Tony)

Featuring 86 international musicians from different parts of the world: Abel Pabon, Alan Pasqua, Alex Maguire, Allan Holdsworth, Amy Tata, Aris Daryono, Asaf Sirkis, Beledo, Bill Jones, Bob Mintzer, Bojan Ivkovic, Boris Savoldelli, Branko Trijic, Chad Wackerman, Charles Hayward, Ciro Riccardi, Damien Polard, Dave Carpenter, David Binney, Dave Liebman, Demas Narawangsa, Dennis Rea, Derek Di Peri, Desal Sembada, Dewa Budjana, Diki Suwarjiki, Domenico Angarano, Dusan Jevtovic, Dwiki Dharmawan, Elton Dean, Endang Ramdan, Frank Harrison, Fred Baker, Fred Delplancq, Gary Husband, Gilad Atzmon, Hugh Hopper, Hul Hul, Indro Hardjodikoro, Izaak Mills, Jason Smith, Jay Jaskot, Jean-Paul Estievenart, Jenny Bliss, Jimmy Haslip, Jimmy Johnson, John Etheridge, John Marshall, Jonathan Joseph, Larry Goldings, Laurent Delchambre, Lincoln Goines, Marcello Giannini, Marco Bardoscia, Mark Fletcher, Mark Wingfield, Markus Reuter, Michel Delville, Miroslav Tovirac, Othello Molineaux, Pedja Milutinovic, Pete Lemer, Peter Erskine, Peter Sebastian, Phil Miller, Pietro Santangelo, Raffaele Casarano, Riccardo Villari, Riza Arshad, Robert Thomas, Jr., Roy Babbington, Rudy Zulkarnaen, Ryan Berg, Salvatore Rainone, Simon Fintch, Simon Picard, Steve Franklin, Tali Atzmon, Tesla Manaf, Thaddaeus Brophy, Theo Travis, Tohpati, Tony Bianco, Vasil Hadzimanov, Xavi Reija, Yaron Stavi.

For more information: www.moonjune.com

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

MOONJUNE MUSIC (BOOKING & MANAGEMENT)

MOONJUNE MUSIC (BOOKINGS & MANAGEMENT) has handled booking of almost 2000 shows since its formation in 2001. These shows have encompassed full tours, festivals, individual dates, clinics and workshops in more than 50 countries across the globe, specializing in tours in Latin America, Japan and Asia (68 tours in Japan since 2002).

Booking roster: STICK MEN (worldwide), LEVIN BROTHERS (worldwide), PETE LEVIN (worldwide), MÖBIUS feat. PETE LEVIN, LENNY WHITE, ALEX FOSTER, JEFF CIAMPA, IRA COLEMAN or TONY LEVIN, CHRIS PASIN or RANDY BRECKER, NANNY ASSIS (worldwide), SOFT MACHINE (formerly SOFT MACHINE LEGACY, worldwide), THE SECURITY PROJECT feat. JERRY MAROTTA & TREY GUNN (worldwide), GONG (North & South America except Brazil, Asia), GONG feat. STEVE HILLAGE (North & South America except Brazil, Asia), STU HAMM (North, Central & South America), SKOLHAMM ASYLUM feat. ALEX SKOLNICK & STU HAMM (North, Central & South America), HAMM & BERLIN feat. STU HAMM & JEFF BERLIN (North, Central & South America, Asia), JIMMY HASLIP ARC feat. SCOTT KINSEY (worldwide), SCOTT HENDERSON (North & Central America), WINGFIELD REUTER SIRKIS (worldwide), BELEDO (worldwide), NICOLAS MEIER (worldwide except UK), ASAF SIRKIS (North, Central & South America, Asia), GILAD ATZMON (North, Central & South America, Asia), YARON STAVI (North, Central & South America, Asia) DEWA BUDJANA (worldwide except Indonesia),  DWIKI DHARMAWAN (worldwide except Indonesia), BORIS SAVOLDELLI (worldwide except Italy & Russia), GARY HUSBAND (North, Central & South America, Asia), PFM (North America, Asia), LE ORME (North America, Asia), FRANCIS DUNNERY (Central & South America, Asia), JAN AKKERMAN (North, Central & South America, Asia), PHIL MANZANERA (North America, Asia).
Formerly booking & management for (R.I.P.) ALLAN HOLDSWORTH (2005-2016)
Coming up on the booking roster in 2018: OREGON (North America), RALPH TOWNER (North America).

Besides above mentioned artists, MoonJune Music has worked and works directly or via their booking or management representatives with: Alan Pasqua, Alex Machacek, Alex Maguire, Allan Holdsworth, Andy Summers, Anthony Crawford, Area, Arti & Mestieri, Asaf Sirkis, Banco, Beppe Crovella, Bill Bruford, Bill Simms Jr., Boris Savoldelli, Chad Wackerman, Corrado Rustici, Curved Air, D.F.A., Daevid Allen, David Cross, David Jackson, Davy Knowles, Dennis Chambers, Dennis Rea, Deus Ex Machina, Dewa Budjana, Discus, Disney On Ice, Doubt, Dušan Jevtović, Eddie Jobson, Elton Dean, Ernest Tibbs, Fabio Golfetti, Finisterre, Flash, Forgas Band Phenomena, Francis Dunnery, Garbage, Gary Boyle, Gary Husband, Gilad Atzmon, Guy Davis, Ernest Tibbs, Hatfield & The North, Hugh Hopper, Jeff Berlin, Jerry Marotta, Jimmy Haslip, Jimmy Johnson, Joe Lovano, Joey Alexander, John McLaughlin, John Tropea, Jon Hiseman’s Colosseum, Kamal Musallam, Ken Hensley, Latte E Miele, Le Orme, Lenny White, Markus Reuter, Mauro Pagani, Mel Collins, Michel Delville, Moraine, Nektar, New Trolls, Nicolas Meier, Osanna, PFM, Pat Mastelotto, Pete Levin, Phil Manzanera, Phil Miller In Cahoots, Renaissance, Richard Sinclair, Robby Krieger, Scott Henderson, simakDialog, Soft Moon, Status Quo, Susan Clynes, Terry Bozzio, Three Friends, Tohpati, Tony Levin, Trey Gunn, Vasil Hadžimanov, Virgil Donati, Xavi Reija, Yaron Stavi, Zhang Ling (Big John Blues),

During his association with 2 Plus Music & Entertainment (2010-2015, in partnership with the legendary Gentle Giant frontman and then successful mainstream music business impresario Derek Shulman), MoonJune's Leonardo Pavkovic has worked also with Billy Sheehan, Billy Sherwood, Bobby Kimball, Circa, Gary Cherone, Jake E Lee, John Sykes, Loudness, Mike Portnoy, Ron Mancuso, Texas Hippie Coalition, Tony Kaye, Whitesnake.

Saturday, September 16, 2017

Prog-Fusion Legends BangTower Releases New Digital EP "Hey, Where’d Everybody Go?"


Featuring Neil Citron, Robby “Pag” Pagliari and Frankie Banali

Los Angeles – Declassified Records is proud to announce the release of a special 7 track digital EP from progressive fusion legends BangTower entitled “Hey, Where’d Everybody Go?”. Available on September 12, 2017 at all major Digital music retailers including iTunes, CD-Baby, BandCamp, Google Play and Amazon. Tracks from the EP will also be available on most major streaming services in early September.

The surprise 7 track eponymous album follows closely on the heels of the internationally acclaimed December 2016 album “With N With Out”. In early 2017 Neil began writing and demoing new material for a potential future release. With the subsequent departure of Percy and Walter to focus on other music endeavors, it became apparent that others involved with the last BangTower record would be needed again. Since they’d worked so well together on “With N With Out”, Neil invited Robby “Pag” Pagliari back the project to record these songs and co-write some new ones.

When a window of opportunity opened in Frankie Banali’s schedule it seemed only natural to ask him to appear as a guest again, since the tracks he recorded on the previous record were so outstanding. Not only was he graciously willing to contribute his excellent drumming skills, he also brought along some of the best of his vintage sets to the mix, adding even greater depth and personality to each track.

The album was recorded entirely in top Los Angeles studios, utilizing the best in vintage and boutique instruments and recording equipment. It was mixed and mastered by Neil Citron specifically for digital distribution.

BangTower “Hey, Where’d Everybody Go?” track list
1. She Don’t Care - (Citron)
2. Lazy Afternoon - (Citron)
3. Frankie’s Silver Hammer - (Citron)
4. Bring You Back - (Citron, Pagliari)
5. Groove Alone - (Citron, Pagliari)
6. Right Hand Drive - (Citron, Pagliari)
7. Ali’s Midnight Wish - (Citron)

Neil Citron - Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals,
Robert “Pag” Pagliari - Fretless Bass Guitar, Vocals
Frankie Banali - Acoustic Drums

Produced, Engineered, Mixed and Mastered by Neil Citron.
Released 2017 Declassified Records / Executive Producer Jon Pomplin
© 2017 Declassified Music BMI / S.B.I. Music BMI

For more information on BangTower visit:
Official Website - www.BangTower.com
Face Book - www.facebook.com/Bangtower
Twitter - www.twitter.com/BangTower
YouTube - www.youtube.com/bangtower
Declassified Records - www.declassifiedrecords.com ;

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