sexta-feira, outubro 27, 2017

King Crimson's “THRAK – The Complete Scores” Full Band Transcriptions Book Now Available!


King Crimson's "THRAK – The Complete Scores" is now available! For the first time ever, full band transcriptions of this classic from the King Crimson double-trio era. Six musicians: two guitar players, two bassists and two drummers.

All parts transcribed and most of the essential bits tabbed for the various instruments and tunings: Adrian Belew's guitar in standard tuning, Robert Fripp's guitar in new standard tuning, Tony Levin's fretted and fretless basses, Trey Gunn's Chapman Stick and Bill Bruford and Pat Mastelotto's acoustic and electronic drum transcriptions.

Transcriptions by Gabriel Riccio
Editing and tabs by Trey Gunn

Produced on high-quality paper in 9"x12" format, spiral bound for lay-flat-open reading.

Official release date: September 24, 2017

Track listing:
VROOOM
Coda: Marine 475
Dinosaur
Walking on Air
B'Boom
THRAK
Inner Garden I & II
People
One Time
Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream
VROOOM VROOOM
VROOOM VROOOM: Coda
and a bonus track from the "VROOOM EP": Cage

To purchase: King Crimson "THRAK – The Complete Scores": http://tinyurl.com/THRAKSCORES

From Trey Gunn:

A book of King Crimson transcriptions is a built-in contradiction – Crimson rarely steps in the same puddle twice.

This is a band known for stretching beyond even its own limits, meaning most of the arrangements are given freedom to grow and change as the spirit moves. My own experience in the group was that about every one to two weeks some part of the compositions had significantly morphed into something else. For example, in the VROOOM coda, the Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream "Spider Fingers Freakout" and THRAK every night saw the musicians heading into unexplored territory. As a result, any book of transcriptions can only reflect a slice in time of what this particular Crimson was doing on this particular day during this particular performance.

The approach Gabriel Riccio and I have taken with these THRAK recordings was to adhere strictly to what is on this record. While we've referred to the 2015 re-mixes and various live versions of the pieces, we have generally stayed with notating what is in the 1995 original mixes and performances.

These particular recordings, made at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studios in the UK, were live performances. In my memory, we played each piece as a group once or twice through, picked a take and then quickly added overdubs accordingly. In most cases the overdubbing was very minimal. The record was largely completed in two weeks time, including all of the vocals.

From Trey Gunn:

A book of King Crimson transcriptions is a built-in contradiction – Crimson rarely steps in the same puddle twice.

This is a band known for stretching beyond even its own limits, meaning most of the arrangements are given freedom to grow and change as the spirit moves. My own experience in the group was that about every one to two weeks some part of the compositions had significantly morphed into something else. For example, in the VROOOM coda, the Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream "Spider Fingers Freakout" and THRAK every night saw the musicians heading into unexplored territory. As a result, any book of transcriptions can only reflect a slice in time of what this particular Crimson was doing on this particular day during this particular performance.

The approach Gabriel Riccio and I have taken with these THRAK recordings was to adhere strictly to what is on this record. While we've referred to the 2015 re-mixes and various live versions of the pieces, we have generally stayed with notating what is in the 1995 original mixes and performances.

These particular recordings, made at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studios in the UK, were live performances. In my memory, we played each piece as a group once or twice through, picked a take and then quickly added overdubs accordingly. In most cases the overdubbing was very minimal. The record was largely completed in two weeks time, including all of the vocals.

Gabriel Riccio on some of the challenges of this score book:

THRAK has been one of the most challenging records to transcribe thanks to the dense 6-player arrangements. This often made it difficult to tell who is producing each sound. The title track is perhaps the most exciting piece to see on paper, as many of the band's greatest tricks are on display – hocketed polymeters, symmetrical scales, and fiery improvisation.

The hardest part was figuring out how to write down the electronic drum parts. Bill Bruford provided some valuable input on that front, breaking down his sounds into four main categories which I used as labels throughout. The drums in the 'Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream' freakout are a great example of the complexity of this music - Bruford plays sextuplets phrased in 5s against Mastelotto's 4/4 groove.


For more information: 
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

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
Declassified Records - www.declassifiedrecords.com ;
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

MAGNUM - New album LOST ON THE ROAD TO ETERNITY


MAGNUM
New album LOST ON THE ROAD TO ETERNITY
20th studio recording out on 19 January 2018
Duet with guest vocalist Tobias Sammet on the title song

The release of their latest album Lost On The Road To Eternity sees British hard rock band Magnum celebrate a very special anniversary on 19 January 2018. It will be the 20th studio recording by the group surrounding founder members Bob Catley (vocals) and Tony Clarkin (guitar) since their 1978 debut Kingdom Of Madness. At the same time, Clarkin, Catley and bassist Al Barrow are set to introduce their current line-up featuring new additions Rick Benton (keyboards) and Lee Morris (drums). Benton joined the Magnum camp in December 2016 to replace long-standing member Mark Stanway, while Morris took over from Harry James only a few months ago.

Lost On The Road To Eternity contains eleven new songs, among them the first single release ´Without Love` and a duet by Catley and Tobias Sammet on the title track, a kind of artistic thank you by the Edguy /Avantasia frontman in appreciation of Catley's guest stint on a number of Sammet's releases.

The release will once again be complemented by Rodney Matthews's atmospheric cover artwork as well as a total of four live bonus tracks on the CD digipak version (´Sacred Blood – Divine Lies`, ´Crazy Old Mothers`, ´Your Dreams Won`t Die` & ´Twelve Men Wise And Just`) recorded at Magnum's 2017 performance at the Leyendas Del Rock festival in Alicante, Spain.

Lost On The Road To Eternity has been scheduled for release by Steamhammer/SPV on 19 January 2018 as digipak version incl. bonus live disc, 2LP coloured version, download and stream.

TRACKLISTING:

CD 1

1. Peaches and Cream 4:54
2. Show Me Your Hands 5:45
3. Storm Baby 6:13
4. Welcome to the Cosmic Cabaret 8:08
5. Lost on the Road to Eternity 5:54
6. Without Love 5:55
7. Tell Me What You've Got to Say 6:27
8. Ya Wanna Be Someone 5:56
9. Forbidden Masquerade 5:02
10.Glory to Ashes 5:35
11. King of the World 7:04

CD 2 (Bonus Live Disc)
1. Sacred Blood – Divine Lies  6:48
2. Crazy Old Mothers 5:35
3. Your Dreams Won't Die 5:56
4. Twelve Men Wise And Just  6:21

Magnum are scheduled to embark on a major European tour from January to April 2018:

THE ROAD TO ETERNITY TOUR 2018

26.01.GB-Minehead - Giants Of Rock

20.02.18 GB-Bristol - Trinity
21.02.18 GB-Cardiff - Tramshed
23.02.18 GB-Holmfirth - Picturedome
24.02.18 GB-Manchester - Academy 2
25.02.18 GB-Hull - Welly
26.02.18 GB-Aberdeen - Garage
27.02.18 GB-Glasgow - Garage

01.03.18 GB-Belfast - Limelight
02.03.18 GB-Birmingham - Town Hall
04.03.18 GB-Preston - Guildhall
05.03.18 GB-Nottingham - Rock City
07.03.18 GB-Leamington - Assembly
08.03.18 GB-Cambridge - Junction
09.03.18 GB-London - Islington Assembly Hall
11.03.18 GB-Southampton - Engine Room
12.03.18 GB-Brighton - Old Market
14.03.18 NL-Leiden - Gebr de Nobel
16.03.18 SE-Stockholm - Fryshuset Klubben
17.03.18 NO-Oslo - John Dee
18.03.18 SE-Gothenburg - Sticky Fingers
19.03.18 SE-Malmoe - KB
21.03.18 D-Munich - Ampere
23.03.18 D-Nuremberg - Der Hirsch
24.03.18 D-Aschaffenburg - Colos-Saal
25.03.18 D-Berlin - Columbia Theater
27.03.18 D-Bonn - Harmonie
28.03.18 D-Stuttgart - Im Wizemann (Club)
29.03.18 D-Freiburg - Jazzhaus
31.03.18 D-Wuppertal - Live Club Barmen

01.04.18 NL-Uden - De Pul
03.04.18 D-Leipzig - Werk 2
04.04.18 D-Hamburg - Fabrik
05.04.18 D-Bremen - Aladin
07.04.18 D-Neuruppin - Kulturhaus
08.04.18 PL-Bydgoszcz - Klub Kuzinia
10.04.18 CZ-Prague - Nova Chemelnice
11.04.18 D-Memmingen - Kaminwerk
12.04.18 CH-Pratteln - Z7
13.04.18 I-Milano - Legend
15.04.18 E-Barcelona - Bikini
16.04.18 E-Madrid - But

Magnum Social Media Links
Please click here to visit Magnum's official website:
www.magnumonline.co.uk or click here to visit the Official Magnum Facebook page
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

Invincible Space Rock God, NIK TURNER, co-founder of HAWKWIND, Returns With A Brand New Album & North American Tour!



Los Angeles, CA - The Return Of The Thunder Rider! Hawkwind co-founder Nik Turner teleports back to Earth with a brand new album, Life In Space, to be released on September 29 via Purple Pyramid Records. The album features some of Nik's most mature songs in years including the emotional opener "End Of The World" featuring a special guest performance by former Hawkwind/Pink Fairies member Paul Rudolph. Another Hawkwind alumnus, violinist Simon House, jumps on board for the space trippy "Why Are You?." Turner also revisits one of the Hawkwind classics that he co-wrote, "Master Of The Universe," giving the tune a modern twist. Life In Space will be available on both CD and colored vinyl (your choice of blue or white).

Once again, Turner will be hitting the road in support of the album on a coast-to-coast North American tour alongside neo-prog rockers Hedersleben.
Visit https://www.facebook.com/NikTurnermusic/ for complete tour info:

10/29 - Charlottesville, VA - Champion Brewing Company
10/30 - Knoxville, TN - Open Chord
10/31 - Atlanta, GA - The Earl
11/01 - New Orleans, LA - Santos
11/02 - Houston, TX - Walter's Downtown
11/03 - Austin, TX - The Lost Well
11/04 - Dallas, TX - Granada

Frequently called "The Spirit Of Hawkwind," Turner was a major creative force during that group's most critically acclaimed and successful period, 1969-1976. His outlandish costumes, improvised sax and flute playing, and general wild man persona became iconic representations of the band, and we would go on to pen some of their most popular songs including "Brainstorm" and "Master of the Universe." After leaving Hawkwind, Turner used his newfound freedom to travel to Egypt, where he soaked up the history and culture, and also made a recording of his flute music in the King's Chamber of the Great Pyramid of Cheops. In 1985, Turner relocated to the western side of Wales, where he set up a new age community in a fairly rural, isolated area. He has continued to release new music including 2013's Space Gypsy, 2015's Space Fusion Odyssey, and this year's Life In Space.

Track List:
1. End Of The World
2. Why Are You?
3. Back To Earth
4. Secrets Of The Galaxy
5. Universal Mind
6. Approaching The Unknown
7. As You Were
8. Master Of The Universe


PURPLE PYRAMID RECORDS,
A division of CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

Guitar Legend Steve Hunter To Release New Album “Before The Lights Go Out”

The Deacon Of Rock Bites Back! 

"Before The Lights Go Out" is long time Alice Cooper/Lou Reed Guitarist Steve Hunter's latest solo album. The cover art and title make a statement about his failing eyesight, but don't make the mistake of thinking this is a quiet wave goodbye. As soon as you put on the first track, you will know that this is more like a Blues Rock Declaration of Independence! There are sexy grooves, luscious guitar tones and melodies galore.

As with all Hunter's releases, there is some diversity and sound imagery, not least of which is Tienes Mi Corazón where alongside his nylon string improvisation comes the sound of his own heart. And listen out for Joe Satriani adding his fire to the heat of "Mojo Man."

Also joining Steve on a couple of tracks are two great Bass players: Erik Scott can be heard on "Mojo Man," Erik is also an Alice Cooper alumni. On "Under The Bodhi Tree" is Andy Stoller. Steve and Andy toured together with Tracy Chapman during the "Telling Stories" album period, most recently Andy has been touring with Ann Wilson of Heart.

Says Steve, "This album was a real joy for me on many levels. A big part of the inspiration and motivation that kept me going; was from all the people out there who had faith in me and encouraged me through the entire process with their donations and comments. It was really a wonderful experience having you all be a part of it. It's my deepest hope and desire that you all enjoy the music on this album as much as I enjoyed making it. Thank you and God bless!"

Watch the album sampler video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBYCZ_sPVVA  

Steve Hunter is his own man; he has been around the block with a forty-five year career.

From his 1973 solos on Alice Cooper's "Billion Dollar Babies" album, his legendary acoustic work on Peter Gabriel's "Solsbury Hill," his "Intro" to Lou Reed's "Sweet Jane" and his searing opening solos on Aerosmith's version of "Train Kept A Rolling" Most recently he can be heard on Alice Cooper's 2017 album "Paranormal" making this his ninth Cooper album appearance. The Deacon is not done yet but his life is evolving! He has challenges playing live now but his honed skill, tone, power and soul, is dished up on this hot plate of guitar driven instrumental tastiness.

Tracks:
1.   On The Edge Of Uncertainty
2.   Mojo Man
3.   Summer's Eve
4.   Cinderblock
5.   Softtail Deuce
6.   Tienes Mi Corazón (You Have My Heart)
7.   Ice Storm
8.   Under The Bodhi Tree
9.   The Other Side Of The Coin
10. Happy Trails  (vocal Karen Hunter)

Release date September 25, 2017

To pre-order Steve Hunter's "Before The Lights Go Out": https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/before-the-lights-go-out/id1283875407

FALL HAS COME sign to Sliptrick Records

I
talian Alternative | Melodic Rock band FALL HAS COME sign to Sliptrick Records

Fall Has Come are an alternative rock band from Italy formed in late 2014 by Enrico Bellotta (vocals, bass), Raffaele Giacobbone (guitar) and Enrico Pascarella (guitar). In 2015, they have recorded their debut album, Time To Reborn, that garnered excellent feedback in Europe. The band contain many rock elements within their sound and take inspiration from their own personal issues and life experiences. Their lyrics are about the feelings of the human soul: passions, dreams, love, hopes, illusions...!

Having signed with Sliptrick Records, Fall Has Come are working on a new album titled Nowhere due for release in the Autumn.

Notable past live dates
• In February 2016, Fall Has Come started their tour in Spain followed by a tour in Italy and Austria as support for TigetailZ.
• In November, they played as main support to Kongos.
• In December, main support for Yellowcard's final tour dates in Russia.
• On June 29th, 2017 in Bucharest, the band played as main support, for what they consider one of most important band of all time, Evanascence.

Fall Has Come are:
Enrico Bellotta – Vocals | Enrico Pasarella – Guitar | Raffaele Giacobbone – Guitar | Salvatore Laurella – Drums | Alberto Laurella – Bass

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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

THE ARCHINAUTS, the debut album of Isproject, produced by Fabio Zuffanti!

Produced by Fabio Zuffanti, played by Z-Band musicians and released by AMS Records, the visionary concept album of this young italian band is an outstanding work of contemporary prog-rock 
The Archinauts: the debut album of Isproject!

ISPROJECT
The Archinauts   
7 tracks | 50.03 minutes  
AMS Records/BTF   

Trailer:


«Our way of doing rock is "progressive" because we don't label our music, we don't belong to any genre but we try to encompass every kind of music. Rock, pop, classical, jazz, blues: all these genres converge in our way of expressing ourselves. For us "Progressive" is a whole of sounds connected to our emotions». Ivan Santovito and Ilenia Salvemini are sure about the soul of Isproject, the duo they founded in 2013: at last the italian guys (Ivan born in 1991, Ilenia in 1993) has newly released their debut album The Archinauts (AMS Records/BTF). Seven well crafted tracks of contemporary italian progressive rock featuring the enthusiasm and passion of Ivan and Ilenia.

The Archinauts has been produced by Fabio Zuffanti, one of the most important italian prog-rock musician ever, and played by the Z-Band (Giovanni Pastorino, Simone Amodeo, Paolo Tixi, Martin Grice) with Andrea Bottaro: «Our young approach to progressive, our liveliness, our will to making things and our resourcefulness struck Fabio, who has appreciated our desire to play music. Fabio has been our talent scout, has produced The Archinauts, has conducted the musicians in studio, helping us with a lot of ideas and arrangements. His work has increased our music». 

The Archinauts is a visionary out-of-the-schemes work, of a whimsical and dreamlike nature. In addition, the album is in the form of a concept that also embraces poetry, photography and architecture; everything is taken care of in any detail, and trailers, videoclips, artwork, and photographs accompanying the music are meant to tell it in every of its aspects. This is very important, since Ivan and Ilenia are very young: «We're all Archinauts. We interplay with the world and the human beings but often we don't appreciated it enough, losing our humanity. The Archinauts tells something about fear and apprehensions of our times, we try to tell a story about us, giving a meaning to life». 

The Archinauts summarizes the ways of modern progressive without forgetting the lessons of the great rock bands of the golden age. Isproject plays a sophisticated symphonic-rock that melts different vibes with melody, energy, passion and technical skill. Isproject deeply loves every kind of music and The Archinauts resonates all the landmarks of Ivan and Ilenia, from progressive to classical music: «The list of our landmarks is very long, we listen from classical music to celtic, and we love Anathema, Steven Wilson and Muse. Concerning vocals, our favourite bands are Epica, Within Temptation and Kamelot. Contemporary new progressive is full of great young band, especially in Italy: we like our friends Unreal City, Diraxy and Dropshard. Classical music has been very important and educational for us: Ivan has grown up with musical instruments and vinyls, Ilenia with russian ballets and Chopin sonatas». 

The Archinauts - tracklist:

1. Ouverture
2. The Architect
3. Mangialuce
a.He Is Here
b.Progressive Shadows
c.Without the Face
4. The City and the Sky
5. Lovers in the Dream
6. The Mountain of Hope
7. Between the Light and the Stone
  a.Fragile
  b.Innocence
  c.Erase the Ancient World

Isproject:

Ivan Santovito - Vocals, keyboards 
Ilenia Salvemini - Vocals

feat.: 
Giovanni Pastorino - Keyboards & programming 
Simone Amodeo - Guitars 
Andrea Bottaro - Bass guitar 
Paolo Tixi - Drums 

Special Guest: 
Martin Grice - Flutes & saxophones

Info:

Isproject: 

Isproject Bandcamp:

AMS Records: 

Synpress44 press office:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

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



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

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

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

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


Bios

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

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

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

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

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

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


For more information: http://www.simon-phillips.com/
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

ORPHANED LAND Reveal Cover Art and First Details For New Album “Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs"



Oriental metal pioneers, ORPHANED LAND, will release their new studio album "Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs" on January 26, 2018 via Century Media Records. Jens Bogren once again took over mixing and mastering duties of what turned out to be the band's best and biggest production so far. "Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs" will feature a guest appearance of guitar virtuoso Steve Hackett as well as guest vocal appearances by no other than Hansi Kürsch (Blind Guardian) and Tomas Lindberg (At The Gates). The great album artwork was created by Valnoir.
 
Singer and frontman Kobi Farhi comments: "We are thrilled and so happy to finally reveal you the great artwork of Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs! Our music has always been a combination of anger, tragedy, protest and joy. We can't wait for you to hear the 13 brand new tracks of this album. As always it will be very eclectic, no song sounds like the other and the whole album is a one big musical journey. We feel that this album takes our feelings to a new level of anger, protest and tragedy. The cover speaks for itself and it was made as tribute to the way governments design their money. Enjoy!"
 
Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs track-listing:
1. The Cave
2. We Do Not Resist
3. In Propaganda
4. All Knowing Eye
5. Yedidi
6. Chains Fall To Gravity
7. Like Orpheus
8. Poets Of Prophetic Messianism
9. Left Behind
10. My Brother's Keeper
11. Take My Hand
12. Only The Dead Have Seen The End Of War
13. The Manifest - Epilogue     
 
The release of "Unsung Prophets & Dead Messiahs" will be followed by an extensive European Tour in early 2018. The band was recently seen headlining the U.S. in September. Further tour dates will be announced soon!
 
ORPHANED LAND is: 
Kobi Farhi – Vocals
Chen Balbus – Guitars
Idan Amsalem – Guitars
Uri Zelcha – Bass
Matan Shmuely – Drums
 
ORPHANED LAND online: 
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

YPNOS "Beholder"



Beholder is the debut album from Italian Progressive Rock/Metal band Ypnos. It features 10 songs, including the 7-track Tyranny Suite. Being more a musical travelogue through the human brain in 7 distinct steps, rather than a canonical suite, Tyranny Suite is a direct statement; "humans are enslaved by their own emotions, from birth to death. Emotions are tyrants we either learn to cope with or yield under their power".

The 10 tracks from Beholder vary through very different styles, from the metal/prog-metal oriented Arachnophobia and March of The Tyrants, to the progressive rock of State of Grace and The Ending, through to the pop-ish Reality. Ypnos try to explore themselves in every song, in an endless journey through colors and music, harvesting the deepest cuts and throwing away all the excess waste until only music and basic emotions remain. Ypnos rarely over indulge themselves with their own melodies, keeping every song as tight as possible. No pointless long solos or over repeated riffs. This is a compelling mantra in the band's natural "modus operandi", and also applies to the intimate and cerebral style of the lyrics.

Beholder was produced by the band themselves using a very successful crowdfunding campaign. It was mixed and mastered by the long experienced musician, engineer and producer Roberto Priori at PriStudio.

Beholder | Released September 19th, 2017 on Sliptrick Records

Track Listing:
01 Arachnophobia | 02 Tyranny Suite: I. The Beginning (Birth of a New Slave) | 03 Tyranny Suite: II. State of Grace | 04 Tyranny Suite: III. March of the Tyrants (The Tempest, Pt. 1) | 05 Tyranny Suite: IV. Building an Empire (The Tempest, Pt. 2) | 06 Tyranny Suite: V. Reality (State of Conscience, Pt. 1) | 07 Tyranny Suite: VI. Diary of a Slave (State of Conscience, Pt. 2) | 08 Tyranny Suite: VII. The Ending | 09 Northern Star | 10 The Circle, Pt. 1: Grey


Ypnos are:
Christian Peretto – Vocals | Davide Morisi – Guitar | Marco Govoni – Bass | Valentino Bosi – Keyboards | Giacomo Calabria – Drums

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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

SWUNK releases the second album!


«Swunk is an english archaic word that means hard work, labor. Swunk is a mix of energies. The energies of four musicians telling their different experiences of life and music. Swunk is an enso, nsō (円 相) is a Japanese word meaning circle. It symbolizes enlightenment, strength, the universe. A lot of people believe that the artist's nature is fully revealed by the way he designs this circle. Swunk is the search for a crossover of different genres we have grown with: rock, grunge, metal, progressive, jazz, electronics, techno, classic Neapolitan songs, trip hop, soul, funk! We love to think that our way of composing and songwriting is like sitting in a restaurant and drawing on all the food!». This is the best presentation to understand the meaning of Swunk, the new italian quartet coming from Naples and based in London that shows not only a crossover but also a way of thinking, playing and living in music. Swunk is a circle full of energy captured by the well known sound engineer Alfonso La Verghetta, producer and owner of Italy Sound Lab, the indie label that has just released Soundscapes, the second album by Swunk band.

The band was born in 2012 with the name Swunk Infusion, then changed in Swunk, a crasis of swing, funk and fusion. The band released the first album Swunk Infusion in 2014, three years later it's time for Soundscapes, a second album that focuses better the sonic eclecticism and the multicultural way of playing of the italian quartet. For Swunk has been important the involvment of new drummer Marco Fazzari since 2014: «Every drummer is the driving force of a group and three years are so many for adding different shades and colours to keep on searching and playing another kind of music, with no limits and differences between genres. In Soundscapes we have used a deep electronic component and sound research in each song. It has been the first time for us in this kind of music so we have tried and rehearsed very hard for a year in order to reach the right balance. Soundscapes is our beloved son and it contains the whole musical vision and energy of Swunk».

Soundscapes is a melting pot, rather a "salad bowl album" that reveals every ingredient, from funk to rock, from fusion to electronic: a lively and dynamic jazz-rock with a lot of sonic detours just like a "live in studio" work. Swunk feature eight instrumental tracks with a large-scale feeling, experimenting an up-to-date sound inspired by visual art as well. «We are fans of movies and visual art, one of us has studied art, another is a crazy Dali's lover, Marco's nickname is Van Gogh, so we couldn't put our love for art in our music. Swunk sound is full of colours! Definitely we like playing our instruments as if the notes were colours, as if we were painters. Making instrumental music allows you to work with notes and colours and we want to create a strong connection with the unconscious and the imagination of the listener. Soundscapes is Sound Landscapes, each track is a different story based on the individual feelings of everyone of us, each track is splitted in sections as if they were rooms, landscapes, settings where the listener can lose himself in. Swunk is a visual and musical experience».

Swunk released also two videoclips for promoting Soundscapes. The first is Solaium by Daniele Rosselli, the latest one is Ore 22:00, completely drawn in digital 3d by Walton Zed: they fully embody the artistic leaning of Swunk, evoking a parallel world, a blend of music and visuals that makes Swunk of of the most interesting young italian bands. «We're going to come in 2018 and we cannot overlook that Music is in continuous renewal, the Meltin Pot, fusion of genres and contamination dominate in any kind. It was difficult for us to close our ears and eyes in front of so much material from which to draw on».

Soundscapes - tracklist:

1. Standing On The Shoulders Of The Giant
2. Savmarine
3. Preambolo Primaverile
4. Solaium
5. 118
6. Ore 22:00
7. Buddha
 8. Travel

Swunk:
Saverio Giugliano: sax & keyboards
Antonio Cece: guitars & computer programming
Daniele De Santo: bass guitar
Marco Fazzari: drums & drum machine

Infos:

Swunk:

Swunk YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/ channel/ UCOneTLsa9NwcC9IqFY1riHQ

Italy Sound Lab:

Synpress44 press office:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

STAIRS OF LIFE "The Man In A Glass"



The Man In A Glass EP is the result of the band's need to express our artistic sensitivity and musical ideas. It draws inspiration from all kinds of rock, ranging from progressive all the way to alternative rock.

The lyrics are inspired by different day-to-day topics and stories: for example, The Man In A Glass talks about alcohol abuse as a means to defy reality – hence the play on words. Our Lady Of Grace refers to a local legend about "La Madonna di Nettuno", the famous statue in the bands hometown. Legend has it that, whilst on the way to Naples from the harbor of Ispwhich, a massive thunderstorm forced the ship transporting the statue to dock in Nettuno – where Our Lady Grace remains to this day. This episode was interpreted as a sign of Our Lady Of Grace's will to settle in Nettuno.

What has inspired the writing of Mask, is the human need to sometimes wear a "mask" in order to conceal our feelings or longing for another person's company, while You Are Gone expresses all the sadness that comes with losing a loved one. We always hope that, wherever that person may go (some place else, if not the afterlife), he or she may keep us in their memory.

The Man In A Glass | Released November 3rd, 2017 on Sliptrick Records

Track Listing:
01. Mask | 02. The Man In A Glass | 03. You Are Gone | 04. Our Lady Of Grace

Mixed and mastered by Luca Pellegrini.


Stairs Of Life are:
Luca Aldisio – Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Flute | Alessio Erriu – Electric Guitar | Giordano Maselli – Bass, Keyboards, Synth | Fabio Vitiello – Drums

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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

NIGHTINGALE to release live album "Rock Hard Live", debut first single "Chasing the Storm Away"




Swedish progressive hard rockers NIGHTINGALE have announced the release of their first-ever live album, "Rock Hard Live", for December 8, 2017.

Following NIGHTINGALES' latest studio album, "Retribution", which was released in 2014 via InsideOutMusic, "Rock Hard Live", was recorded at Germany's Rock Hard Festival in 2016 and contains the following tracklisting:

NIGHTINGALE – "Rock Hard Live":
1. Nightfall Overture
2. A Raincheck On My Demise
3. Hideaway
4. Forevermore
5. Into The Light
6. Chasing The Storm Away
7. Revival
8. Steal The Moon
9. Black Tears

NIGHTINGALE's Dan Swanö checked in with the following comment about "Rock Hard Live":
"After eight NIGHTINGALE studio releases the time had come for a proper live album!

When we were invited to perform at the prestigious Rock Hard Festival in May 2016 we felt that this could be the right time and place to capture the energy of a NIGHTINGALE live performance.

Once we listened back to the recordings of the gig it became obvious that there was a special vibe both on stage and in the audience that day. In order to capture that we decided to mix the album with a very high percentage of the sound coming from the two audience microphones. This approach gives the listener the sensation of actually being there at the gig when you listen to it, but this also means that you have the occasional out-of-time and tune-notes here and there since there is no way to fix anything in the studio once you mix an album this way.

So, "Rock Hard Live" indeed is a genuine sonic snapshot of what NIGHTINGALE sounds like on stage, warts and all!"

A first single (and iTunes instant grat track) off "Rock Hard Live" is also being launched today, along with the album pre-order! Check out "Chasing The Storm Away" streaming below or here:

Pre-order "Rock Hard Live" now at http://smarturl.it/Nightingale-RHL.

NIGHTINGALE Line-Up:
Dan Swanö – vocals, guitars, keyboards
Dag Swanö – bass, guitars, keyboards
Erik Oskarsson – bass
Tom Björn – drums

NIGHTINGALE Discography:
The Breathing Shadow – 1995
The Closing Chronicles – 1996
I - 2000
Alive Again: The Breathing Shadow Part IV – 2003
Invisible – 2004
Nightfall Overture (Compilation) – 2005
White Darkness – 2007
Retribution – 2014
Rock Hard Live – 2017

NIGHTINGALE / Dan Swanö online:

INSIDEOUTMUSIC online:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

domingo, outubro 22, 2017

French Musician/Composer Alan Simon Releases New Compilation “Songwriter” 2CD Feat. Jon Anderson, Justin Hayward, Alan Parsons, Martin Barre, John Wet



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

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

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

This collection features songs with guest appearances by:

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

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

TRACK LISTING:

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

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

To purchase:

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

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

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

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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

quinta-feira, outubro 19, 2017

John Fogerty To Release "Blue Moon Swamp: 20th Anniversary Edition" on November 17, 2017 - Exclusive Blue Vinyl Available


NEW ALBUM COVER ART – VINYL NOW AVAILABLE VIA BMG ON NOVEMBER 17, 2017

(Los Angeles) After announcing a new, exclusive recordings deal with BMG, legendary singer/songwriter and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member John Fogerty is set to celebrate the 20th anniversary release of the Grammy Award-winning album Blue Moon Swamp on CD, 180g black vinyl, limited-edition 180g blue vinyl, and digital platforms on November 17.

Originally released May 20, 1997, Blue Moon Swamp won Best Rock Album at the 40th Grammy Awards in 1998, with the song 'Blueboy' receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance that same year. Blue Moon Swamp would go on to receive gold certification by the RIAA. The 20th anniversary release of Blue Moon Swamp now features a new album cover showcasing the famed concert backdrop from the album's original supporting tour. Additional reissues from Fogerty's solo career include the chart-topping and multi-platinum Centerfield, the gold-certified albums Eye of the Zombie and Premonition, Déjà vu (All Over Again), as well as a new Best of collection featuring highlights and favorites curated from his extensive solo catalog. Release dates to be announced.  Fogerty is currently in the studio working on material for the full-length album to be released next year and will launch is next critically acclaimed Las Vegas Residency, at the Wynn Hotel's Encore Theater, with performances of John Fogerty: Fortunate Son In Concert taking place January 10-20. 

With a career spanning more than 50 years, John Fogerty is hailed as one of the most influential musicians in rock history. As the writer, singer and producer of numerous classic hits including 'Born on the Bayou', 'Green River', 'Proud Mary', and 'Bad Moon Rising', Fogerty has been honored as one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists, 100 Greatest Songwriters, and 100 Greatest Singers by Rolling Stone. Earning induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Baseball Hall of Fame, he is also a New York Times best-selling author for his memoir, Fortunate Son: My Life, My Music.  

Following two sold-out, critically-acclaimed Las Vegas residencies in 2016, Fogerty returned to the city for a series of live shows in March and May this year with his debut at the Wynn's Encore Theatre performing John Fogerty: Fortunate Son In Concert, produced by Julie Fogerty and directed by Ken Ehrlich and Raj Kapoor in association with AEG Live. Recently, the Wynn announced a slate of 15 additional live performances September 20 – October 7 and January 10 – 20, 2018.

For more information please visit www.JohnFogerty.com.
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

quarta-feira, outubro 18, 2017

Instrumental Prog Ensemble Podd Release Debut Album “Cosmic Forces”



Podd, the new instrumental, progressive rock band, presents their debut album "Cosmic Forces," drawing inspiration from the flood plains of the Mississippi Delta, the mountains of Macedonia, to the foothills of the Himalayas. Podd's original compositions are born from personal introspection. It is a kind of musical storytelling without words, told with the impressions and colors only sound can evoke. Featuring Peter Olsen; guitars, Dejan Dejkoski; drums and percussion, Eric Olsen; keyboards, Takashi Otsuka; bass guitar.

Podd is the brainchild of Peter Olsen. His eclectic compositions, born from his years as an ever searching guitarist, are made manifest by his musical compatriots Dejan Dejkoski, Eric Olsen and Takashi Otsuka. The Podd sound is intense, complex, and variegated, but always funky. Podd's music is intended as a visceral experience that takes the mind on a journey.

Dejan Dejkoski brings the perfect expression of a driving rock-fusion sound combined with the quirky world beats of his native Macedonia. Takashi Otsukas jazz-steeped finger-style bass playing and advanced theoretical background adds emphasis and counterpoint. Eric Olsen, his arch musicianship in both the jazz and classical music scenes at play, lends chordal and melodic depth to the music.

Podd as a name, is an amalgam of Peter Olsen (PO) and Dejan Dejkoski (DD) who form the core of the band. Peter and Dejan codified the overall feel and arrangements of the tunes. The album was recorded at Peter Olsen's Aqua Velour Studio with Peter as the recording engineer. Mixing of the album was by Dave O'Donnell with mastering completed by Scott Hull of Masterdisk.

Podd is currently working on a feature video for "Beyond Beyond" off of the "Cosmic Forces" album. The band has written all new material for their second album (title unknown) and has already begun the recording process.

Podd band bios:

Peter Olsen; guitarist, composer, producer - A self taught guitarist Peter has fronted bands playing his original music since the age of 16. He has composed and played guitar in various acoustic and electric ensembles. Past efforts include his world fusion duo Advaita with Dan Johnson, collaboration and support with Prasanna Thokchom (classical Indian sitarist), Saida Fikri (Morocco) and Ustad Shabbir Nisar (India). Podd represents the apex of Peters guitar and compositional style. Peter has two other CD releases: "Arcadia" with Eric Olsen, 2010, and "The Portal" in 2011. His production company website Holus Bolus Productions can be found at www.holusbolusproductions.com.

Dejan Dejkoski; drums & percussion - Dejan comes from a musical family steeped in the rhythms of his homeland Macedonia. His father, a professional musician, exposed him at an early age to the drums. Dejan played drums with multiple outfits growing up until he moved to the USA to pursue a career in music. His interests know no boundaries with Podd representing his current state.

Eric Olsen; keyboards - Eric has crafted a distinguished career in both jazz and classical music, as a pianist and composer, harpsichordist, synthesist, organist, conductor, and accompanist. He has recorded twenty albums to great critical acclaim, with artists Randy Brecker, Ted Nash, George Garzone, Don Braden, Ratzo Harris, Tim Horner, Peter Olsen, Bucky Pizzarelli, Lou Caimano, Jan Carden, Kevin Maynor, and Larry Newcomb, and performed with jazz luminaries Billy Hart and Eliot Zigmund. He has appeared in concert from Carnegie Hall to Birdland, with orchestra in Taiwan, throughout the United States, and overseas in France, Germany, India, the Fiji Islands, and New Zealand. He teaches at Montclair State University and the Wharton Center for the Performing Arts, and is Director of Music and Organist at Union Congregational Church in Montclair, NJ. More information is available atwww.ericolsenmusic.com and www.dyadplays.com.

Takashi Otsuka; bass guitar - Takashi studied composition, arranging and improvisation theory at Berklee College of Music. He has performed with various artists such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra, The Boys Choir of Harlem, Ben E. King, Swing Express, Composer's Workshop Big Band, Latin Jazz Orchestra and many other jazz musicians. Takashi worked as a bass instructor for four years at Professional Music studios, Inc. and has been teaching privately for the last ten years.

To purchase Podd's "Cosmic Forces":

For more information: