quinta-feira, janeiro 26, 2012

Believe reveal title and artwork of their forthcomin​g DVD

In late March/early April, Metal Mind Productions will release second live DVD by Believe – an outstanding art-rock act formed by the guitarist Mirek Gil – the former leader and composer of Polish prog-rock legend Collage. The material entitled "Seeing Is Believing" was recorded in November 2011 in Wyspianski Theatre in Katowice, Poland. During this unique evening Believe primarily presented material from their most recent studio album „World Is Round" (Metal Mind Productions, 2010).

And today the band reveal the cover artwork of „Seeing Is Believing".
 
Karol Wróblewski, the band's vocalist comments the project: "The picture was taken at Wyspianski Theatre during the filming of the concert for the purposes of this DVD release. We made no suggestions to its author and we decided to give him absolute artistic freedom. That's how the magical, impressionist image that captures the essence of the title 'Seeing Is Believing' was made. Vivid colors, Karol's silhouette, and the mysterious atmosphere perfectly reflect what happened on that evening on the theatre's stage. And believe me, the atmosphere of the concert was outstanding. We're all the more satisfied about the cover because it reminds us of a movie poster... Because that DVD is a true documentary about us and our music. The picture was taken by our friend - Sławek Haratym. We've been cooperating with him for a couple of years now and he keeps surprising us with his creativity. We knew that he wouldn't let us down this time as well. We're very proud of his latest work."

Full details about „Seeing Is Believing" DVD  to be announced soon!
 
Metal Mind Productions
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Paul Wardingham Announces Forthcoming Release ‘The Human Affliction’

Australian guitar shredder and producer, Paul Wardingham, has announced 'The Human Affliction' as the title of his new instrumental cyber metal album.

Wardingham

, who released his acclaimed debut 'Assimilate Regenerate' in 2011 through Enigmatic Records, says this second full-length will be a concept album.

"I wasn't planning on making an album like this for a few years, but the music began to take on a life of its own and a story materialized from the themes of each track" says

Wardingham. "Assimilate Regenerate was conceptual in that it was inspired by science fiction, future technology and the effect it has on society, and I have always had visual references in my mind associated to the music I write, so it feels quite natural to progress to an album like this."

Currently in the pre-production stage,

Wardingham hints at what to expect stylistically from this new effort.

"I would say it's going to be darker, more progressive and more epic than

'Assimilate Regenerate', still with a heavy dose of melodic shred and ambient synth work like before."

Today,

Enigmatic Records released an official teaser poster and a new website design to promote the upcoming release.

"We're all very excited about the direction of

Paul's new album," Enigmatic Records Marketing Director Johnny Cheng said. "Right now, we're working closely with Paul and DarkZen Design to articulate the album artwork, promotion and packaging. 'The Human Affliction' is going to be something very special."

'The Human Affliction'

is set to be released mid 2012.

For more information, go to www.paulwardingham.com, www.facebook.com/paulwardinghamofficial, and www.enigmaticrecords.com


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REWIND THE 80s FESTIVALTEMPLE ISLAND MEADOWS, HENLEY-ON-THAMES - Friday 17th August – Sunday 19th August 2012

Rewind The 80s Festival in Henley-on-Thames returns for a fourth successive year from Friday 17th August to Sunday 19th August in the countryside surroundings of Temple Island Meadows, Henley-on-Thames. Having completely sold out in 2011, this year's star-studded, 24 artist line-up at Rewind The 80s Festival Henley features the legendary Kool & The Gang on Saturday 18th August, and synth pop pioneers OMD on Sunday 19th August. 

Tickets go on sale Friday 27th January.  For ticket information and prices, please visit from the official festival website - www.rewindfestival.com.

As with last year's live performances, attractions and festivities, this year's Rewind Henley showcases another massive line-up of iconic 80s recording artists. Dubbed as "Britain's answer to the Jackson Five", this year marks the Rewind debut of Five Star, who celebrate their 25th anniversary in the music industry.

Saturday 18th August will feature Kool & The Gang, as well as appearances from The Bangles, Grandmaster Flash, Rick Astley, Soul II Soul, Five Star, Starship, Heather Small, Jimmy Somerville, Sinitta, Right Said Fred, and Doctor & The Medics.

Sunday 19th August will feature OMD, as well as appearances from Lightning Seeds, Roland Gift, Tony Hadley, The Straits, Wang Chung, Marc Almond, John Parr, Midge Ure, The Christians, T'Pau and a special guest (TBA).

In addition to Silent Discos, Live Karaoke bars, and various Camping and Glamping (Glamorous Camping) options, this year's 80s extravaganza features new attractions including Jamie Oliver's "Fab Feasts" and The Grand Palace of Entertainment (as seen on Channel 5's Fairground Attraction); converted into an acoustic and comedy bar.

Originally launched in Henley-on-Thames in 2009, Rewind The 80s Festival includes the biggest line-up of 80s artists in the world.  In its first three years, Rewind has played host to 80s icons including Holly Johnson, Human League, Gloria Gaynor, Kim Wilde, Boy George, Village People, Bananarama, Billy Ocean, Ali Campbell's UB40 and many more.
 
To read the full online press release and download hi res photos, click here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/rewind2012/henley.htm.

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Kappa Crucis: revealed three more songs of the new album

The Brazilian heavy rockers of KAPPA CRUCIS are in the studio recording its second album. Still untitled, the new album is expected to reach the stores in July and will be the sucessor of the praised Jewel Box from 2009.

The band had already announced three tracks that will appear on the album, "Invisible Man", "Flags And Lies" and "Strange Soul". Now the group reveals the name of three more new songs: "Mecathronic", "What Comes Down" and "Nobody Knows".
"We left the creativity flows naturally in these three new songs", declares the drummer F. Doria. "We wrote in a way to not force any musical direction, without the preoccupation if it would sound like this or that. It's natural and you're done! But in general the three songs are different, although they have some approach due our identity".
 
Watch a video from the pre-production where the band plays some small parts of the new songs: http://youtu.be/stwnHl0XkDE

The musicians are also registering all the recording steps on the 'studio report' that it's available on the band's Facebook page www.facebook.com/kappacrucisband.
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Rory Gallagher'​s first six solo albums reissued for 40th anniversar​y

Sony Music in association with Capo Records and Legacy are proud to re-issue the first six original Rory Gallagher albums in chronological release date order – "Rory Gallagher" (1971), "Deuce" (1971), "Live! In Europe" (1972), "Blueprint" (1973), "Tattoo" (1973) and "Irish Tour '74" (1974).  These six seminal re-issued albums celebrate 40 years since the birth of Rory's solo career.
 
Rory Gallagher was a musician like no other. He was, and still is, one of the world's greatest guitarists, singer/songwriters and live showmen. His guitar playing is an inspiration to some of today's hottest guitarists including Slash, Joe Bonamassa, Brian May, Johnny Marr, and The Edge.
 
"The man who changed my musical life was Rory Gallagher, I picked up a guitar because of him." – Johnny Marr Each of the six milestone albums were released during Rory's most prolific years (1971-74), when he recorded and produced them in the short space of three years.  The albums are re-released in digipack form, with newly restored original cover art. The audio has been re-mastered from the original ¼" inch tapes, true to how Rory intended it to sound.  Each album includes exclusive sleeve notes personally written by Rory's brother and former tour manager "Donal Gallagher", journalist "Roy Hollingworth", and legendary rock photographer "Mick Rock".
 
Read the official press announcement here - http://www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/sonymusic/rorygallagher.htm
 
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quarta-feira, janeiro 25, 2012

Deep Purple to Release New Studio Album Next Year

British hard rock legends Deep Purple are very excited by the prospect of making a new and significant album. To that end, they have decided to extend their writing and recording period through the summer of 2012.

Commented Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan: "We know we will disappoint some of our fans this summer. However, we look forward very much to our autumn/winter tour and continuing our worldwide tour with our new album in 2013."

Durung a 2011 interview with U.K.'s Express & Star, Gillan was asked when fans might be able to expect Deep Purple's follow-up to 2005's "Rapture Of The Deep" album.

"The fact is that we've been touring flat out," said Gillan. "We did 48 countries last year. We're getting so much off on that we just don't feel the drive at the moment for writing."

Gillan did reveal, though, that Deep Purple convened for a mini writing session earlier in the year.

"We were in Spain for a little while and we had a week off," he said. "We spent most of the time in the bar, to be honest with you. It was a good session, but nothing absolutely dynamic came out of it.

"I think to get some progress as far as an album's concerned you've got to have a target, you've got to work to a date, and that gives you pressure. If you've got the pressure, you get stuff done. We don't have a plan, to be honest.

"Things have always been chaos, certainly since I joined, and we've never been able to plan anything. If we'd been able to make plans, we'd probably have retired by now!"

"People like to do stuff that they're good at, that they enjoy, that they get something out of. So while it's fun and we're all getting older and bits are dropping off here and there, it's still great. I think there probably will be another album.

"And because we're not doing an album (right now) doesn't mean I don't write every day. It's a day off today and for me it's a full day at the office. This morning is interviews and this afternoon I've got two or three interesting pieces I'm working on at the moment. I write every day and so when I do come round to making an album there's never a shortage of what I call color material."

Deep Purple's 18th studio album, "Rapture of the Deep", was released in November 2005. It was the fourth studio CD from Deep Purple since guitarist Steve Morse joined the band in 1994. It was also the second album to feature veteran keyboardist Don Airey.

"Rapture of the Deep" was produced by Mike Bradford, who also worked on the band's previous release, 2003's "Bananas".
 
DEEP PURPLE TOUR 2012
 
Date City Venue
2012 Canadian Tour Dates With VIP Packages
Thu. 02.02.12 St. Johns, NL Mile One Stadium
Tickets Still Available
Sat. 02.04.12 Moncton, NB Moncton Casino
Tickets Still Available
Sun. 02.05.12 Halifax, NS Metro Centre One
Tickets Still Available
Mon. 02.06.12 Moncton, NB Moncton Casino
Tickets Still Available
Wed. 02.08.12 Ottawa, ON Civic Centre
M&G with No Tickets
Thu. 02.09.12 Kingston, ON K-Rock Centre
Tickets Still Available
Sat. 02.11.12 London, ON John Labatt Centre
Tickets Still Available
Sun. 02.12.12 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
M&G with No Tickets
Mon. 02.13.12 Hamilton, ON Hamilton Place
M&G with No Tickets
Wed. 02.15.12 Winnipeg, MB MTS Centre
M&G with No Tickets
Thu. 02.16.12 Regina, SK Brandt Centre
Tickets Still Available
Fri. 02.17.12 Saskatoon, SK TCU Place
Tickets Still Available
Sun. 02.19.12 Calgary, AB Southern Jubilee
Tickets Still Available
Tue. 02.21.12 Edmonton, AB Rexall Place
M&G On Sale Now
Thu. 02.23.12 Prince George, BC CN Centre
M&G On Sale Now
Sat. 02.25.12 Victoria, BC Save on Foods Centre
Merch pkgs On Sale Now
Sun. 02.26.12 Vancouver, BC Queen Elizabeth Theatre
M&G On Sale Now
Other 2012 Tour Dates
Thu. 11.08.12 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg Rockhal
Fri. 11.09.12 Grenoble, France Palais des Sports
Sun. 11.11.12 Nantes, France Zenith
Mon. 11.12.12 Caen, France Zenith
Tue. 11.13.12 Paris, France Zenith
Thu. 11.15.12 Koln, Germany Lanxess Arena
Fri. 11.16.12 Bremen,Germany Halle 7
Sat. 11.17.12 Hannover, Germany AWD Hall
Tue. 11.20.12 Kiel,Germany Sparkassen Arena
Thu. 11.22.12 Frankfurt, Germany Festhalle
Fri. 11.23.12 Oberhausen, Germany Konigspilsner Arena
Sat. 11.24.12 Hamburg, Germany O2 World
Mon. 11.26.12 Leipzig, Germany Arena
Tue. 11.27.12 Berlin, Germany O2 World
Thu. 11.29.12 Augsberg, Germany Schwabenhalle
Fri. 11.30.12 Munchen Olympiahalle
Sat. 12.01.12 Stuttgart, Germany Schleyerhalle
Mon. 12.03.12 Brussels, Belgium Zenith
Wed. 12.05.12 Clermont, France Zenith
Thu. 12.06.12 Toulouse, France Zenith

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sexta-feira, janeiro 20, 2012

SBB reveal the title of their forthcomin​g album

SBB, a legendary progressive rock band from Poland, will return with a brand new studio album in March. The album, simply entitled "SBB" will include „a new sound - fresh, mature yet spontaneous and full of youthful energy". 
 
 Józef Skrzek explains the title: "The album's title refers to the band whose existence on the music scene can be divided into history and contemporaneity. SBB does not exploit its past achievements - we're creative artists and we're an inexhaustible source of new sounds. We understand the present music market, we follow its course, but we also retain our identity and remain recognizable as SBB. There were many musicians that were part of SBB's line-up at one point or another but the core of the band is Skrzek and Anthimos - two multi-instrumentalists - and it's in this line-up that we worked at the studio this time around. Hence the album's title: 'SBB'. As it comes to the song titles, each of them will refer to significant events or circumstances in the band's history, but also to various people that played an important role in SBB's life."
 
The forthcoming album will be released in March in Europe (in May in USA). Full details to be announced soon. SBB's latest album to date is "Blue Trance" released by Metal Mind Productions in 2010.
 
 
Metal Mind Productions
www.metalmind.com.pl /
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Fake, the second OUTOPSYA opus after the astounding debut album Sum.

A double album formed by 11 tracks per CD, a purple disc and a black one, one hour and a half of disturbing, obsessive, impervious music. This is the secret of Fake, the new album by OUTOPSYA (OUT Of PSYchical Activity), the duo from Trentino that makes its comeback two years after their debut album, the widely appreciated SUM, released in 2009 by Videoradio. After two years of studio work – with several interruptions due to non-music-related projects such as a movie – OUTOPSYA produce a brave and complex record, that found its rightful home in the Lizard Records roster, a prestigious label operating internationally in the field of Progressive, lead by Loris Furlan.

Like before, in Fake the duo formed by Luca Vianini (guitars, vocals, synth, drums) and Evan Mazzucchi (bass, cello) have a reflective, strict approach, dense with ideas and references stemming from an "unconscious numerology": "Fake was born as a single composition that, for our comfort but also by chance, we ended up dividing into 22 tracks. Chance wanted that, with 11 tracks in each CD, the duration of the two discs ended up being pretty much the same. Those elements of randomness, along with some further coincidence, made us pick 11-11-11 as the release date, which fits perfectly! So somehow we could say that we have been unconsciously guided by numbers."
 
Born as a soundtrack for Rupert Julian's mute film The Phantom of the Opera (1925), Fake is a work that, differently from SUM, is focused on the atmosphere, on expressive, evocative electronics. Ideated as a single, 90-minute track, the new visionary OUTOPSYA record abandons the "post fusion" style of its predecessor to explore the avant-rock and neo-psychedelic style without forgetting the lessons learned from Frank Zappa, Mr. Bungle and King Crimson. Distributed by BTF, GT Music Distribution, PickUp Export, Eventyr Records, Ma.Ra.Cash Records, also available on the main digital channels.

Information:

OUTOPSYA Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/outopsya

OUTOPSYA on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/outopsya

Lizard Records:
http://www.lizardrecords.it

Press office Synpress44:
http://www.synpress44.com
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New Echo Us album reflects higher planes of reality...

Now forging ahead through the multi-album suite started with 2009's The Tide Decides, Echo Us continues to introduce intricate, evocative and new sounds for ambient rock music. Set for release March 20th 2012, Tomorrow Will Tell The Story lifts from the automatic writing channeled by its creator, Ethan Matthews. The voices call for light and unification- as we continuously create our own realities.
 
The addition of singer-songwriter Henta on vocals weaves dark and light through the male and female duets featured throughout the album. The album also features the harp of Raelyn Olson and a meditation canticle performed by hermeticist Rawn Clark.
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Secret Info Update on the Double Door Show Sunday


Secret Updated info on the  Double Door Sunday January 22nd

SECRET INFO ON DOUBLE DOOR SHOW

THEY'VE MOVED OUR TIME SLOT TO 

SUNDAY 10 PM, JANUARY 22nd
1572 N Milwaukee in Chicago

We'll drop our newest cuts on you...
"Blood Money" and "Love and Pride"
So come out, have a beer and I'LL STILL get you home to bed
before the bewitching hour

Like Secret Info Update on the Double Door Show Sunday on Facebook share on Twitter

KATIE BENDER
Violinist/Vocalist - hailing from the
wilds of the Upper Peninsula,
where Katie performed with
folk groups and ensembles
Blood Money (YouTube)

BLOOD MONEY (Youtube)

Copyright © 2012 Jungle of Cities, All rights reserved.
Thanks for supporting the band.

Our mailing address is:
Jungle of Cities
po box 805136
Chicago, IL 60680

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BRITISH PROGRESSIV​E METAL LABEL BASICK RECORDS PARTNERS WITH PROSTHETIC RECORDS / RED FOR NORTH AMERICAN DISTRIBUTI​ON

BASICK RECORDS, The UK and Europe's fastest rising Metal label has kicked off 2012 with a bang, by announcing that they are to set up a U.S. presence, partnering directly with legendary Los Angeles based label, PROSTHETIC RECORDS.

The deal, which will see all of BASICK's forthcoming releases and selected back catalog serviced via SONY's RED Distribution, was seen as the ideal opportunity for BASICK's organic growth, as label owner Nathan 'Barley' Phillips explains:

"There's so much synergy and mutual respect between BASICK and PROSTHETIC, that when the opportunity arose to partner up and launch the label fully in the USA, we just knew that we had to make it happen.

This deal enables us to offer our bands and releases a fully dedicated U.S. staff throughout their touring and retail cycles, as well as providing us with the perfect opportunity to sign some more US bands and to also bring some of our European talent to American shores!"
 
BASICK's first official release via the new setup will be CHIMP SPANNER's new record, 'All Roads Lead Here' which will hit shelves in the U.S. and Canada on February 14th 2012. The label has also just launched a brand new website, which can be found here: http://basickrecords.com

About BASICK:
Formed in 2005 by Nathan 'Barley' Phillips, BASICK has quickly established itself as one of the most important up and coming Metal labels in the UK & Europe. From releasing Enter Shikari's first ever material to leading the way with the new wave of progressive Metal, BASICK strives to put out only the best in new, exciting, fresh heavy music. Now a fully fledged international label, BASICK's roster currently includes: Aliases, Blotted Science, Chimp Spanner, Circles, Ion Dissonance, Skyharbor, The Algorithm, The Arusha Accord, Uneven Structure and 7 Horns 7 Eyes among others.
 
Experience the BASICK roster for free, download the new 2012 sampler featuring 12 of the label's hottest artists. Available FREE internationally from Bandcamp and in the UK from Amazon UK.
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quinta-feira, janeiro 19, 2012

STEVEGANE PROJECT, NEW ALBUM, WHEN THE TIME IS A PRESENT, MUSE RECORDS

"When The Time is A Present (Musea, 2011) is an excellent instrumental album, led by an electric guitar lyrical to the bone....Here's a real invitation to go on journey" ! Musea.

"... The music is of a uniform late-night mood : flowing, spacey, mesmerizing..." Kinesis.

"... Mesmerizing instrumentals from the French guitarist and composer inspired by Pink Floyd, Yes, Rush, and Rainbow." Caerllysi Music the Progressive Rock specialists.

"... This is a nice album, with Pascal Stevegane playing all of the the instruments..." Progarchives.com, the ultimate progressive rock music website.

"...After listening to the album a couple of times I had a very positive feeling about it. I liked the many Pink Floyd hints a lot and I guess that many prog heads will agree that Stevegane Project recorded a fantastic album after they have listened to it." ***+ Henri Strik BACKGROUND MAGAZINE.

".. For guitar lovers of Gilmour, Beck, Lifeson, and Blackmore this album will bring much satisfaction... The highlight of the album is the shortest track, Lady of the Lake.  This beautiful, yet poignant guitar solo  grabs your attention  and doesn't let go until the final notes..." Dante's Prog.
. 
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terça-feira, janeiro 17, 2012

MoeTar and their album "From These Small Seeds" by Magna Carta Records.

Half the fun of listening to MoeTar is hearing how well all of these seemingly incompatible musical pieces fit together. Amid sonic references to Zappa, The Beatles, XTC, Gentle Giant, Stevie Wonder, Laurie Anderson and many others, MoeTar offers a fresh approach to rock, pop, electronica and experimental music. Simply put, From These Small Seeds is the culmination of a collision of styles that seems to defy the odds – and our ears.
 
It's true what they say: opposites do attract. Just ask lead vocalist Moorea Dickason and bassist/songwriter/lyricist Tarik Ragab for the Bay Area-based modern progressive rock band, MoeTar.
 
"I'm super optimistic and Tarik is more a pessimist," Dickason says with a laugh about her partner Ragab. "We make it work."
 
That's an understatement. In fact, that such polarized personalities have found another is a metaphor for the band's marriage of diverse musical elements.
 
MoeTar's Magna Carta Records debut, From These Small Seeds, is a collection of seemingly disparate and opposing sonic forces, which makes a profound and coherent artistic statement. On paper the music shouldn't work at all. The band flies in the face of logic, yet not a musical note seems out of place. Flaunting their musical fluency, MoeTar doesn't avoid challenges: they appear to actively court and thrive on them. Indeed. Inherent contradictions are the subject of many of the band's songs.
 
"So much of what I write about involves paradoxes," says Ragab. "It seems the rules are set in contradiction to one another."
 
Along with a versatile and veteran crew of musicians, including guitarist Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modeliste, Narada Michael Walden), drummer David Flores (Lauryn Hill) and keyboardist Matt Lebofsky (miRthkon), Dickason and Ragab balance chaos and precision amid sonic references to Zappa, The Beatles, XTC, Gentle Giant, Stevie Wonder, Laurie Anderson and many others.
 
Half the fun of listening to MoeTar is hearing how well all of these seemingly incompatible musical pieces together. When Dickason (Moe) and Ragab (Tar) collaborate with their bandmembers the creative sparks fly at such odd and interesting angles. Catchy melodies are juxtaposed with complex time signatures, jazz balladry, electronica, experimental noise and simultaneous guitar-vocal runs. Simply put, From These Small Seeds is the culmination of a beautiful collision of styles that seems to defy the odds – and our ears.
 
Case in point: the leadoff track, "Dichotomy", which opens with disorienting backwards audio (a la Yes' hit "Roundabout"), is at once ethereal, funky and incisive. In a rapid rolling lyrical style, Dickason fires off a series of provocative lines such as "Paradox dichotomy/event horizon emergency…" as ascending and descending notes blend nicely into the tune's eventual forward thrust.
 
"'Dichotomy' gets back to one of my favorites subjects: paradoxes," explains Ragab. "The song points out life's contradictions and the fact that I'm not able to wrap my head around them."
 
The band adeptly creates a range of moods in tracks such as "Ist or an Ism" (a tune warning us about social intolerance) and the grunge-y, vaguely Middle Eastern, number in 5/4,  "Infinitesimal Sky." The political elements of "Butchers of Baghdad" slyly and skillfully dissect the perils of our consumer culture and our belief systems. It also speaks to how technology, when placed in the wrong hands, creates confusion and paranoia. As the song relates, "What appears to be transparency reappears invisibly/there for all to see/What is identity?"
 
"New World Chaos" plays like a dream sequence – and for good reason. The song's Beatles-ish, kaleidoscopic sonic textures, calming piano figures, and ethereal voices lull the listener into a false sense of security, which only reinforces the belief that master villains have infiltrated the upper echelons of our society by concealing their true intentions. As with most layered lyrics, there's more to discover in the song. (So, give it a listen.)
 
"'New World Chaos' is a play on words," says Ragab. "I think chaos has been used to the advantage of people who capitalize on disasters and suffering, which, ironically, creates a kind of twisted order."
 
"The song was written, but the lyrics weren't at all," adds Dickason. "Tarik had the lyrical concept of using opposite ideas, which are reflective of our world, in a stream of consciousness style. We both wrote different lines, and the song ended up being about half mine half Tarik's."
 
The jazzy and downtrodden, yet quite beautiful, "Never Home" shivers with the cold sensation of big city isolation. Wailing guitar tones, which frighten and howl with the intensity of an electrical storm, and spiraling keyboard lines (think Genesis' "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway"), provide the hypnotic and chaotic sonic backdrop for the narrator's emotional turmoil and innermost hopes.
 
"Random Tandem", which contains bits of psychedelia, jazz-rock fusion and prog rock demonstrates the band's collective and individual versatility. "Singing such fast lines precisely in tune -- the vocal part is in parallel harmony with the guitar and keyboard for most of the song -- articulating tons of words at a pretty rapid rate," says Dickason, "and then on top of that having a quirky and believable performance telling a story of this dream world, was a lot to nail all at once."
 
She does nail it, flawlessly, and with the moxie of a modern R&B diva. What's so wonderfully wacky about Dickason's voice is that it can be molded into just about anything she wants it to be. One moment her vocals resemble the lyrical musicality of Ella Fitzgerald and the next it recalls the soulful grittiness of Janis Joplin. Yet, at no point does Dickason appear to portray a character or slip into an assumed identity. "This material has a masculine undertone, but I like to think I still sing with a measure of feminine energy," says Dickason.
 
Prior to establishing MoeTar, Ragab and Dickason were busy causing political uproars with the punk/funk band, No Origin, they'd formed in 2004. "No Origin was overtly political," says Tarik. "I saw what was going on in the world and I couldn't really keep quiet about it. We were more aggressive about our views in No Origin than with this band. You'll find political messages in the music of MoeTar, but we are not beating you over the head with them."
 
Earlier, Ragab was a member of the art-rock beast, E is for Elephant, which was spearheaded by Bay Area cult figure and Warr guitarist Brian Kenney Fresno. This formative experience afforded Ragab a solid foundation for forming his own nonconformist prog band. "E is for Elephant was my first exposure to the idea of using a regular rock band as a kind of mini orchestra or chamber ensemble," says Ragab. "I was fortunate to have run into these really amazing slightly older more experienced musicians who wanted to work with me and were further along in their musical development."
 
Since her No Origin days, Dickason has been busy with her singing career, cutting tracks for high profile video games. "Prior to the existence of Guitar Hero and Garage Band, I was asked to do a vocal track for Karaoke Revolution for the song, 'I Love Rock and Roll' by Joan Jett," says Dickason. "I was then later asked to do the Guitar Hero game, the American Idol Karaoke Revolution and some tracks for a dance video game."
 
Since forming in 2008, MoeTar has been steadily building its following, winning over fans at every turn. Like so many other aspects of the MoeTar story, they've succeeded, seemingly, against all odds, having turned their dream into reality.
 
"People have said, 'How did this happen to you?" says Dickason. "It was just one of those music industry urban legends that happened to have come true for us. You're always taught, 'Give your all, no matter if there's one or 1,000 people in an audience.'"
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segunda-feira, janeiro 16, 2012

Brand X Reforms With John Goodsall

Legendary 70s prog-rock band Brand X is reforming after a 15 year hiatus for a 2012 US tour with John Goodsall on guitar, Percy Jones on bass, David Sancious on keys, and Ronnie Ciago on drums. Stay tuned for more details. Many thanks to Anil Prasad for this exciting news!
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domingo, janeiro 15, 2012

Melodic Revolution Records is pleased to announce thesigning of the symphonic rock band Aethellis.

Northumbria is the bands 2nd release and follows up to the criticallyacclaimed self titled release Aethellis.

Aethellis has the soaring majesty of classic symphonic rock andincorporates a contemporary rhythmic feel along with asymmetrical meters andpolytriad harmonies and catchy hooks! The first Aethellis album was recorded in 2002/2003 by classically trained keyboardist, vocalist andguitarist Ellsworth Hall and has many influences including rock, classical,synth pop, funk, jazz.

Northumbria is now available as a Digital Release through MelodicRevolution Records, CDBaby and and other fine digital retailers. The CD will beavailable for distribution and sales worldwide in early 2012.

Northumbria Track Listing:
01. Northumbria
02. The Awakening
03. Dire Need
04. The Penal Colony
05. Without A Sound
06. Celui Qui
07. Exchanger Prague
08. The Peace Path
09. Sounds Good
Aethellis is:
Ellsworth (keyboards / vocals / guitar) along with Mark Van Natta (guitars /vocals), Erik Marks (bass), Chris Marks (guitar), Joseph Dwyer (sax) and MikeHarrington (drums).
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Michael Schenker announces "Temple of Rock" UK Tour

Legendaryrock guitarist, Michael Schenker, has announced fourUK "Temple of Rock" concerts in May 2012. This marksthe first time Schenker's touring band will featuretwo ex-Scorpions members – Herman Rarebill (drums)and Francis Buchholz (bass). Vocalist Doogie White(ex-Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen)and MSG keyboardist, Wayne Findlay complete theline-up.
 
The UKconcerts will feature a plethora of hits spanning Michael Schenker's colourfulcareer. Songs to be performed by the "Templeof Rock" line-up include UFO's "Rock Bottom" and "Doctor Doctor", MSG's "Armed andReady" and "Into TheArena", Scorpions classics "Another Piece of Meat" and "Rock You like a Hurricane",plus new songs from the recently released "Temple of Rock" album "Miss Claustrophobia" and "Before theDevil Knows You´re Dead".
 
May 2012 UK Tour Dates
May 9 - Wolverhampton The Wulfren
May 10 - Manchester HMV Ritz
May 11 - Glasgow O2 ABC
May 12 - London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire
 

Michael Schenker - Official Website
www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

Michael Schenker - Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Schenker
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Guitarist Jeff Aug releases his 5th solo album on 02.March 2012. .and sets a new world record at the same time!

It´s been 3 years, 1 world record, 2 tours , 4European tours with Anne Clark, 1 tour as support for Soft Machine, countlesssolo headline performances across the U.S. and Europe (including FusionFestival, Krach am Bach Festival, Klangbad Festival, and others), and 6 majorfeatures in guitar magazines worldwide (including Gitarist, Guitar, Guitar Player, Akustik Gitarre, Guitar Acoustic)since JEFF AUG released his last solo album LivingRoom Sessions in 2009. 

After a gruelling year of recording and touring whichincluded tours with Soft Machine and Johnny A., as well as a performancesupporting John Kadlecik (Furthur)  in the U.S., Jeff Aug will be releasinghis 5th solo album Wedding Songon Friday, 02.March 2012.  Promotional copiesare available to press and radio (digital and physical).  Jeff Aug is availablefor interviews. 

To promote the new album, Jeff Aug will be doing afull on European tour  in one day.  That will be 9x concerts in 9x countries in24 hours.  Guinness Book of World Records™ officially recognizes these 9 x concerts as an attempt to set a new worldrecord for the category of 'Most concerts performed in different countries in24 hours´: 

JEFF AUG

Raw Fingers &Steel Strings World Record Tour 2012

presentedby LIVE-IN Magazine, Ratrax, Becker Navigation, GUITAR Magazine, D´AddarioStrings, Planet Waves Cables, AER Amplification, Dunlop StrapLoks, Ticket69.de,& Rapunzel

03.03.2012, 12:15 AM, LU-Heinerscheid, Centre culturel àHeinerscheid

03.03.2012, 01:45 AM, BE-Sankt Vith, Triangel

03.03.2012, 03:40 AM, NL-Maastricht, Sociëteit SV KoKo

03.03.2012, 05:40 AM, DE-Düsseldorf, O´Reilly´s

03.03.2012, 10:00 AM, FR-Paris, Les Bus Palladium

03.03.2012, 03:30 PM, IT-Milan, Land Of Live

03.03.2012, 05:15 PM, CH-Mendrisio, La Birraria inMendirsio

03.03.2012, 08:45 PM, FL-Vaduz, Tattoo-ConventionLiechtenstein

03.03.2012, 10:45 PM, AT-Hohenems, Löwensaal


11 x days later, Aug hits the road for a string ofdates which will include headliner performances, shows with the jam bandsensation moe., and yet another European tour with the Jazz Fusion GuitarLegend…
…ALLANHOLDSWORTH...  JEFF AUG Solo Tour
 
Raw Fingers &Steel Strings Tour
Presented by GuitarMagazine, Akustik Gitarre Magazin, DAddario Strings, Ratrax, AER Amplifiers,Dunlop & Planet Waves Guitar Accessories 13.03.2012 NL-Amsterdam, Maloe Melo (PRE JAM IN THEDAM SPECIAL)* with Cosmic Finger!
 
18.03.2012 DE-Bonn, Harmonie**                     
19.03.2012 GB-London, O2 Academy Islington**          
20.03.2012 FR-Paris, Palladium**                     
22.03.2012 DE-Hamburg, Fabrik**                    
23.03.2012 DE-Plauen, Malzhaus**                   
24.03.2012 DE-Lorsch, Musiktheater Rex**       
25.03.2012 IT-Milano, La Salumeria della Musica**
04.05.2012 DE-Berlin, Quasimodo***                
05.05.2012 DE-Halle, Objekt5***                      
06.05.2012 DE-Hamburg, Fabrik***                  
07.05.2012 DE-Hannover, Jazz Club***             
15.05.2012 DE-Kassel, Schlachthof***             
16.05.2012 NL-Amstelveen, P60***                   
17.05.2012 DE-Leverkusen, Scala***                
18.05.2012 NL-Tilburg, Paradox***                   
19.05.2012 FR-Paris, Sunset – Sunside***        
21.05.2012 DE-Karlsruhe, Tollhaus***               
23.05.2012 IT-Milan, Theater***             
24.05.2012 CH-Basel, Grand Casino***
25.05.2012 CH-Zürich, Moods***                      
26.05.2012 CH-Lugano, venue TBA***   
01.06.2012 US-Laurel, MD, MontpelierCulturalArtsCenter*
 
*solo, ** as support for moe., *** as support forAllan Holdsworth
Booking by MAXIMUMBooking:  info@MAXIMUMBooking.com
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South London metallers Bloodloss announce debut mini album “The Struggle” out on 5 March and Sophest appearance next month.

Balls out metal with hammering grooves and tasty hooks is what South Londoners Bloodloss do best, and their debut mini album 'The Struggle', out on the 5 March, is packed of neck breaking bangers.

Combine bruising breakdowns and hook-laden choruses with riffs that Rob Flynn would be proud of, 'The Struggle' is a must listen for those who love their metal to deliver the core principles – riffs, aggression, passion.. and more riffs!

Check out current single "This Still Remains" here:
 
Matt Hobbs belts out his passionate vocals with lyrics inspired by life experiences to massive effect, which perfectly complement the skull crushing riffery and shredding leads of Mark Browell and Rob Ironmonger. This is supported by the killer grooves and blasts of bassist David Smith and drummer Daniel Kelly.

Although new on the scene, Bloodloss have quickly turned heads and scored themselves a slot at this year's Sophest supporting Romeo Must Die and Xerath and many more on 12 February.

As huge as they sound on record, Bloodloss are all about the live show and have racked up some impressive high profile shows last year, playing with the likes of TRC, Breed 77 and Ill Nino. Make sure to catch them on their soon to be announced UK tour in March!
Track Listing:
1) The Struggle
2) This Still Remains
3) Stand Alone
4) Reborn
5) Lost­
6) Paradise
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Imagery: debut album cover revealed

The brazilian progressive power trio IMAGERY finished the recordings of its debut album.  Titled The Inner Journey,  the CD will bring tracks from the band's praised demo and from the singles released by the group.
 
The band now reveals the album cover, which was designed by the drummer Luciano Neves.

"We decided to work with illustrations because it brings more identity to the work", explains Luciano. "We based upon opposite ideas of good and evil around a classic context (references on art nouveau) what makes an excellent conection with our musical references from the 70ths progressive rock".
During the whole production process of The Inner Journey, IMAGERY has been posting a diary on the band's Youtube official page. Fans from all around the world have been following the videos.

Produced by Julio Anizelli (Mamaquilla, Terra Celta, Marina Fonseca), The Inner Journey  arrives on stores in April of 2012.

For Further Information:
www.facebook.com/imageryprog (Facebook)
www.youtube.com/imageryprog (Youtube) 
www.twitter.com/imageryprog  (Twitter)
www.myspace.com/imageryprog (Myspace)
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Original YES Vocalist / Songwriter Jon Anderson To Play Select US Dates

Music legend and original YES vocalist / songwriter Jon Anderson will be playing a series of select  solo concert dates in the US starting in February. Jon Anderson, who has one of the most recognizable voices in music, and is best known for his work with YES, Vangelis and Kitaro, as well as his innovative solo efforts, recently completed a successful tour of the east coast in the US with fellow YES member Rick Wakeman and a solo tour of South America. Jon's solo tour promises to deliver an exciting mixture of material from his prolific solo career, collaborations with Vangelis and classic YES songs, along with new compositions from his new CD 'Survival & Other Stories'.

Jon Anderson US 2012 Tour Dates:

2/02/2012 - Mesa Arts Center - Piper Theater - Mesa, AZ - www.mesaartscenter.com

2/04/2012 - Wheeler Opera House - Aspen, CO - www.wheeleroperahouse.com

2/17/2012 - American Music Theater - Lancaster, PA - www.amtshows.com

2/19/2012 - Newton Theatre - Newton, NJ - www.thenewtontheatre.com

2/24/2012 - Ovation Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa - Henderson, NV - www.greenvalleyranchresort.com/entertainment/ovation.php

2/26/2012 - One World Theatre - Austin, TX - www.oneworldtheatre.org/home.html

2/28/2012 - Kessler Theater - Dallas, TX - www.thekessler.org

3/01/2012 - Carolina Theatre - Durham, NC - www.carolinatheatre.org

3/03/2012 - Parrish Auditorium Miami University Hamilton - Hamilton, OH

3/05/2012 - World Cafe Live - Wilmington - Wilmington, DE - www.worldcafelive.com

3/07/2012 - Theatre of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA - www.philadelphia-theater.com/theaters/theater-of-living-arts/theater.php

3/08/2012 - Baltimore Sound Stage - Baltimore, MD - www.baltimoresoundstage.com

3/10/2012 - B.B. King Blues Club & Grill - New York, NY - www.bbkingblues.com

3/14/2012 - Infinity Hall - Norfolk, CT - www.infinityhall.com

3/15/2012 - Wilbur Theatre - Boston, MA - www.thewilburtheatre.com

3/17/2012 - Narrows Center For The Arts - Fall River, MA - www.ncfta.org

Jon recently released an epic musical work entitled "OPEN." A return to the long-form composition that Jon Anderson is best known for, ("Close To The Edge", "Gates of Delirium", "Revealing" and "Awaken"), OPEN is a 21-minute exhilarating musical journey; a pioneering effort that weaves intricate melodic and harmonic themes within a classical music framework whilst showcasing Anderson's iconic vocals and timeless melodies throughout. In many ways OPEN is a return to Jon Anderson's musical roots, as YES music continually flows through his veins, making it only natural to revisit now and again. Coupled with wonderful orchestration by his neighbor and good friend Stefan Podell, messages of peace, love, light and freedom are further explored within OPEN, making listening an uplifting and joyous experience!

" 'Forever taken to that place of understanding,' are the first lyrics of 'OPEN', as though I am always remembering my true musical journey. To create this work, I sat with my 19th Century guitar and strummed ideas last spring 2010. Songs just poured out of me that week, and before I knew it I had created a long form musical idea, and with the help of Stefan Podell's powerful orchestration, we put together what is now 'OPEN.'

It has 4 movements all intertwined, and seems to have a life of its own. For those who love this kind of music, I feel so happy to present it as one of many I hope to create over the coming years. My love 'Janee' has helped in production with her unique musical observations and her angel voice. I am so happy and thankful... Many Blessings." Jon Anderson - October 2011

Jon Anderson's OPEN is available as a digital download and can be obtained at:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/open-single/id474552662?ls=1

In other news, Jon Anderson and fellow former YES member Rick Wakeman have released 'Anderson / Wakeman - The Living Tree In Concert Part One' CD on Gonzo MultiMedia. The legendary duo performed a series of successful concerts in the UK in 2010 in support of their critically acclaimed CD release 'The Living Tree', and recorded several of the performances. The CD can be obtained at www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk

For more information on Jon Anderson's upcoming tour go to www.jonanderson.com/tour.html 

Jon Anderson 'Survival & Other Stories' available through Voiceprint Records

www.voiceprint.co.uk,  www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk

Amazon: www.amazon.com/Survival-Other-Stories-Jon-Anderson/dp/B004XIQHWU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308606761&sr=1-1

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Spain's Progressive Rock Legends Kotebel To Release Highly Anticipated New CD - 'Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble'

Madrid, Spain - With 5 albums released since 2000, including the highly acclaimed 'Omphalos' (nominated for 'Best Foreign Record' by ProgAwards in 2006) and 'Ouroboros' (Winner – 'Best Foreign Record' by ProgAwards in 2009), Kotebel is one of the main progressive rock acts to emerge from Spain and Latin America. And now, much to the anticipation of prog fans across the globe, Kotebel is preparing to release their 6th album 'Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble'. "The main body of the album is formed by the four movements that comprise the 'Concerto for Piano'," explains keyboardist and founding member Carlos Plaza Vegas. "It is pure music; no reference to extra-musical elements. However, the other four pieces on the album are based on conceptual elements."

Formed in 2000, Kotebel is an eclectic project, immersed in the mainstream of progressive "art" music. Kotebel's music is an elaborate, yet accessible blend of avant-garde symphonic rock, with a wide range of influences from classical to jazz to world music. The group sites influences as diverse as Genesis, Debussy, YES, ELP, Ravel, Messiaen, Thinking Plague, The Enid, Steve Hackett, Gentle Giant, King Crimson and Chopin. Kotebel has participated in prestigious festivals including BajaProg (Mexico – 2004), Gouveia Art Rock (Portugal – 2007/2010), ProgSud (France – 2007), Madrid Art Music Festival (Spain – 2008/2009), Go Prog (Portugal – 2009), Crescendo (France – 2010), sharing the stage with artists like Robert Fripp, Magma, After Crying, IQ, Allan Holdsworth, Deus Ex Machina, Isildurs Bane, Jerry Marotta, Pat Mastelotto and others.

Here's what the press has said about Kotebel:

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

"This is a masterwork!" - Vitaly Menshikov – Progressor

"Outstanding symphonic prog!" - César Inca – Progarchives

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

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

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

Kotebel's current line-up:

Carlos Franco Vivas – drums and percussion
César Garcia Forero – guitars
Jaime Pascual Summers – bass
Adriana Nathalie Plaza Engelke – keyboards
Carlos G. Plaza Vegas – keyboards

Between the years 2000 and 2008 Kotebel went through a number of line-up changes, with Carlos Plaza Vegas remaining as the driving force throughout. Kotebel's configuration as a five piece instrumental ensemble in 2008 quickly became an efficient performance engine, exploring aesthetic grounds that required more complex and demanding skills as individuals and collective performers. Along with releasing an album 'Ouroboros' in 2009, Kotebel toured Japan in the summer of that year and participated in a number of music festivals and performances in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy. Between September and December 2011 the ensemble recorded their forthcoming album 'Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble', in which pre-orders are currently being taken. To be released in early 2012, the album will also include a DVD with a full rendition of the recording of the Piano Concerto.

"Since the first Kotebel album back in 2000, one of our goals has been to integrate elements of classical music in a language based in progressive rock," explains Carlos. "'Ouroboros' (2009) was a further step in that direction (for example, the 'Ouroboros' song is constructed upon a 'Theme and Variations' structure). However, it is in the 'Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble' where this integration has been taken to its greatest extent in our music."

Finally, Carlos has this to impart to the listening public: "For those still not acquainted with our music, I would invite you to visit our website where we have plenty of fragments from each and every track on our albums. Kotebel's language is very eclectic and appealing to both fans of more traditional prog as well as more adventurous ones."

To pre-order Kotebel 'Concerto for Piano and Electric Ensemble' CD:


For more information: www.kotebel.com

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quinta-feira, janeiro 12, 2012

Steve Hogarth Richard Barbieri - Not The Weapon But The Hand Available from February 27th 2012

Kscope is pleased to announce the release of 'Not The Weapon But The Hand', the new album from Steve Hogarth and Richard Barbieri.

Hogarth is best known as the frontman of Marillion, the progressive rock legends that he joined in 1989, following spells in The Europeans and How We Live. In addition to the 12 albums Marillion have released in this time he has also recorded and toured as a solo artist, under the name h.

In recent years Richard Barbieri has been a core member of Porcupine Tree playing keyboards on all the band's albums since 1993 as well as releasing two solo albums, 'Things Buried' and 'Stranger Inside'. Prior to this, it was in the new-wave pioneers Japan that he originally came to prominence, helping to create the groundbreaking synthesiser sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk, Kate Bush and a whole raft of artists to follow.

For more information go to www.kscopemusic.com/hogarthbarbieri

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Mike Portnoy's new band Flying Colors announce debut album

Flying Colors, the spectacular new virtuoso prog/pop/rock band, featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater) and guitarist Steve Morse (Deep Purple), will release their eponymous debut album in the UK on Monday March 26th, followed by a US release on Tuesday March 27th.
 
Released by Music Theories Recordings, the debut album includes the talents of Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), Dave LaRue (bass), Neal Morse (keyboards, vocals), Casey McPherson (lead vocals, guitar), and Steve Morse (lead guitar). "The album has bits and pieces of what you'd expect from each of us," says Portnoy. "The sum of all its parts led to brand new, unchartered territory for everyone involved."
 
The formation of Flying Colors began with a simple idea: virtuoso musicians and a pop singer joining together to make new-fashioned music the old fashioned way.  Refreshing, classic, old and new, the recordings are saturated with the many styles, tones and hues of the players who, in becoming a band, have delivered a unique fusion of vintage craftsmanship and contemporary music.
 
Mike Portnoy was the co-founding member and drummer for one of the world's biggest prog metal bands "Dream Theater". Neal Morse is the co-founding member of the prog rock band Spock's Beard and is currently the prog rock supergroup "Transatlantic".  David LaRue plays bass for the Dixie Dregs and has also worked with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai.  Steve Morse has been playing lead guitar for Deep Purple for the last 16 years.
 
Founder and leader of "Alpha Rev", Casey McPherson, has enjoyed major success in the US with multiple hits including the song "New Morning". "It was quite an experience," recalls Dave LaRue. "The band moved at a fast pace, ideas flying around the room at all times. Sections of tunes were arranged, and then re-arranged. Ideas were tried every which way until we made them work, or, in some cases, discarded them altogether. Just keeping track of everything was a challenge!" The album is filled with trial and triumph. It's been an inspiring challenge melding folk, prog, pop, and metal all into one big recording."

Steve Morse and Dave LaRue have developed magical music chemistry over the years that began early in their careers as partners in Dixie Dregs. In 1995, Morse subsequently became a member of Deep Purple, while LaRue's ongoing musical adventures include Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess, Steve Vai, and the aforementioned Portnoy.

Multi-instrumentalist, composer and singer Neal Morse is one of the leading figures in progressive rock, whose notoriety follows his co-founding of the seminal band, Spock's Beard in 1995, recordings as a solo artist, and contributions to the super-group Transatlantic.

Mike Portnoy is one of the most popular and respected drummers in both metal and rock, and an accomplished writer and producer.  He is the recipient of numerous industry accolades, including 26 Modern Drummer awards, Revolver Magazine's Golden God award for "Best Drummer" and Drum Magazine's "Drummer of the Year".  He rose to prominence as the leader, drummer, producer, and co-writer for metal/prog juggernaut Dream Theater, before moving on in 2010. That same year, he worked on Avenged Sevenfold's #1 album Nightmare and their subsequent tour.

It was Portnoy who recommended Alpha Rev's emotive singer Casey McPherson as a contender to join Flying Colors. McPherson, who's 2010 Hollywood/Disney album New Morning debuted in the Top-5 on two Billboard charts, enjoyed major success at radio with multiple hits. The track "New Morning" spent 17 weeks in the Top-10 on Triple A Radio, and enjoyed a run on Vh1's Top-20 Countdown for months. Steve Morse offers, "Casey was a glorious find, because he could make anything sound fantastic, and is a multitalented like the others."

Flying Colors convened for just nine days in early 2011, and composed and recorded this album during a short and intense session.

"It was quite an experience," recalls Dave LaRue. "The band moved at a fast pace, ideas flying around the room at all times.  Sections of tunes were arranged, and then re-arranged.  Ideas were tried every which way until we made them work, or, in some cases, discarded them altogether.  Just keeping track of everything was a challenge!"  The album is filled with trial and triumph.  It's been an inspiring challenge melding folk, prog, pop, and metal all into one big recording."
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