quarta-feira, agosto 13, 2014

Flying Colors to release new album "Second Nature"

Flying Colors are set to release their highly anticipated new album "Second Nature" on the Music Theories / Mascot Label Group in the UK and Europe on 29th September, followed by North American release on 30th September. The album release will be followed by a tour with dates in Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Barcelona, Spain, Tilberg, Frankfurt, Pratteln, London and Paris. 


Combining the talents including Deep Purple/Dixie Dregs/ex-Kansas guitaristSteve Morse, drummer Mike Portnoy (Transatlantic, Winery Dogs, ex-DreamTheater), Neal Morse (Transatlantic, Spock's Beard and a prolific solo artist), bass player Dave LaRue (Dixie Dregs, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and more) with a comparatively new talent, singer/songwriter Casey McPherson, the band mixed virtuoso music with melodic songwriting by crafting new-fashioned music the old-fashioned way. 

The music press acknowledged their eponymously titled debut album from"Flying Colors" among the most compelling releases of 2012. Classic Rock magazine hailed the band's debut as "fearless", praising its "Journey-sized choruses" and referencing artists as diverse as The Beatles, Red Hot ChiliPeppers, The Doors, Muse, and even Frank Sinatra.  In late 2012, the band toured America and Europe, dazzling fans with Flying Colors originals and selections from the catalogues of the five members. 

This time the band opted to self-produce, with Bill Evans, the man responsible for the concept of Flying Colors, reprising his role as Executive Producer and co-engineer. Besides offering a finely tuned set of ears, Evans would remix a track each time an amendment was made, before sending it onto each band member, allowing closer collaboration by the band.  "There was no repudiation of producer Peter Collins," clarifies Evans, "but the guys had become a family and they wanted to try something different." 

Sporting stunning artwork from the legendary designer Hugh Syme (Rush, Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Whitesnake) and bookended by two tracks of truly epic stature – 'Open Up Your Eyes' and the multiple-part 'Cosmic Symphony' – the album is every bit as breathtaking as the debut.  "This is an album full of many layers," concludes guitarist Steve Morse. "The more you listen, the more you can hear. It's an album to keep listening to." 

Click here to view the official press release and the EPK on YouTube -www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/mascot/secondnature.htm.
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE

Mr. Big confirm details of new album "...The Stories We Could Tell"

Hard rock's original supergroup, Mr. Big are back with a vengeance with their new album …The Stories We Could Tell. The band's eighth studio album is slated for release in the UK on Monday 22nd September, followed by North American release on Tuesday 23rd September via Frontiers Music Srl.  "This new album rocks," says Paul Gilbert. "I love playing guitar, singing, and writing with Eric, Billy, and Pat. And after 25 years, I'm proud that we can make an album that is melodic, powerful, interesting, groovy, and emotional."  

"We wrote songs individually and collectively on this new record," says Eric Martin. "To me this is the album that we've threatened to make decades ago. A classic, groovin', blues-rock record with the spirit and spark of our rock and soul idols from the 70's. Hells to the yeah it's a Mr. Big album complete with all the trimmings. I think whether you've been with us from the beginning or just starting, you're going to dig where we are coming from and where we've been."  Download album artwork and the new official Mr. Big band photo HERE. 

The original line-up comprised of Eric Martin (vocals), Paul Gilbert (guitar),Billy Sheehan (bass) and Pat Torpey ( drums), are back with some of their most powerful material to date. The new album is the follow-up to the 2011 release "What If," that marked the band's return to their signature hard rock sound. The new album is available for pre-order via Amazon UK.  Mr. Big kick off their European tour on Friday October 17th at London's Koko. Visit the official Mr. Big website to view all their 2014 tour dates.  

The band recently announced that drummer Pat Torpey has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The diagnosis has left him unable to perform his normal drumming duties on the band's upcoming World Tour. He did complete all of the drumming on the upcoming album, but unfortunately touring will be too difficult for him at the present time. Mr. Big intends to announce a drummer in the near future who will handle most of Mr. Big's drumming duties on the Fall 2014 tour and expects Torpey to jump on the drums on suitable live songs as well as participating in the group's acoustic set. 

Album Track Listing: 

1)            Gotta Love The Ride
2)            I Forget To Breathe
3)            Fragile
4)            Satisfied
5)            The Man Who Has Everything
6)            The Monster In Me
7)            What If We Were New?
8)            East/West
9)            The Light Of Day
10)          Just Let Your Heart Decide
11)          It's Always About That Girl
12)          Cinderella Smile
13)          The Stories We Could Tell
14)          Addicted To That Rush (Live – Exclusive Bonus Track)

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JOLLY - The Audio Guide to Happiness Live Spectacular

JOLLY is very excited to announce two very special shows we'll be playing this Fall.  For one night only in the US and one night in Europe, we will be playing The Complete Audio Guide to Happiness.  That's right, Parts 1 and 2, in full, back to back.  We've already starting preparing for these shows, fleshing out songs we've never played live, and working on details of songs we've played hundreds of times.  For us personally, these shows will bundle years of our own work into a two-hour extravaganza.  Every production decision, every note debated, every lyric that was fine tuned, all gets represented and delivered in one set.  Epic.  We are so psyched to play these shows!

Here's the info:

September 27th, 7pm - Arlene's Grocery - New York City (95 Stanton St)
Capacity is only 150.  Make sure to get your tickets now!

October 3rd, 10pm (22:00) - JC Sjiwa - Barrlo, NL (ProgPower Europe)
Click here to buy tickets: http://www.progpowereurope.com/tickets/
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE

PROGTOBERFEST announces lineups; InsideOut's SPOCK'S BEARD and BIGELF headline Saturday night


A new prog-friendly annual festival announces its lineups for October 25 and 26, 2014!

PROGTOBERFEST is a two-day event, taking place in the Midwest, but its appeal is global. PROGTOBERFEST's inaugural two-day celebration of all things proggy will be held at the multi-faceted Reggie's venue in Chicago, Illinois. US prog rock masters SPOCK'S BEARD (InsideOut) will headline Saturday night, October 25, with STICK MEN (featuring Tony Levin and other members of King Crimson) finishing off the festival Sunday evening, October 26.

Also appearing will be InsideOut's own BIGELF, another King Crimson offshoot, TU (featuring Trey Gunn and Pat Mastelloto), RICHARD SINCLAIR (Caravan, Camel, Hatfield and the North), BURNT BELIEF (featuring Colin Edwin of Porcupine Tree), JOLLY, PRESTO BALLET, CHEER-ACCIDENT, TILES, SCALE THE SUMMIT, and many others!

PROGTOBERFEST will operate two consecutive stages over its two days, with attendees free to travel between rooms and stages at will. A special VIP ticket option offers meet and greets in the venue's record store, Record Breakers, on the second floor.

For tickets and further information, please visit:

http://www.reggieslive.com/showtag/progtoberfest-2014-at-reggies-chicago/

Organizers Kevin Pollack and Robby Glick plan to hold Progtoberfest every year. Progtoberfest 2014 is proudly sponsored by InsideOut.

www.insideoutmusic.com  

www.insideoutmusicshop.com
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Phase Reverse at Hammerfest's special HRH Stoner Rock Stage


We are very happy to anounce that we are going to perform at Hammerfest's special HRH Stoner Rock Stage on March 14th 2014! Looking forward to meet our UK brothers and sisters!

Hammerfest announcement:

Hammerfest 7 announces that on Saturday March 14th, its sister brand HRH will host a special HRH Stoner Rock Stage at this forthcoming Spring's event.

Bands set to perform on the HRH Stoner rock stage include the already announced acts Sahg and Hang the Bastard. Joining them are PIST, The Admiral Sir Cloudesley Shovell, 7 Weeks, Sigiriya, Sedulus, Steak, Phase Reverse and In the Hills.

For those of you that love Stoner rock check out the links below

Pist by Pist
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO45NQypoAk

Steak – The Butcher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLovI4ZSBy8

Phase Reverse – I got your back.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9iPSiFzzK8

They will join the below acts for what promises to be an amazing Hammerfest 7.

Hammerfest Line-up so far

Kamelot
Candlemass
Devilment
Orange Goblin
Hell
Sahg
Raging Speedhorn
Hirax (First ever UK appearance)
Angel Witch
Elvenking
Einherjer
Skalmold
Waylander
Darkane
SSS
Winterfylleth
Evil Scarecrow
Viza
RSJ
October File
Hecate Enthroned
Hang the Bastard
The King is Blind
Red Rum
Oaf

HRH Doom

Dysteria
GURT
Spider Kitten
Limb
The Bendal Interlude
Diesel King

HRH Stoner Stage

Sahg
PIST
The Admiral Sir Cloudesley Shovell
7 Weeks
Hang the Bastard
Sigiriya
Sedulus
Steak
Phase Reverse
In the Hills

For more details and tickets go to www.hammerfest.co.uk
or for tickets call 08700 110034
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terça-feira, agosto 12, 2014

Phoenix & Dragon heads to Ghost Town Studios to record tracks with new members

Exibindo 10366144_749002905119903_2803943794214705585_n.jpg
Phoenix, Arizona - Phoenix & Dragon, leaders in the Arizona progressive power metal scene, are heading to Ghost Town studios in Jerome, Arizona, to record several new tracks. This is the first time the band has been in the studio with its two new members, guitarist Nikki Rowell and drummer Max Wieden.

According to guitarist and founding member Teddy Arunski, "The new guys have brought new life to the band. Their phenomenal playing has inspired the rest of us and we're all playing better, individually and as a band, than ever before. We want to capture that magic and share it with our fans."

The band says they selected Ghost Town Studios because of the studio's reputation and experience with progressive artists such as Maynard James Keenan, Tony Levin, and Tim Alexander. "We played Rudy Tucich, co-owner of the studio, examples of recordings we really liked," said Jermaine Mars, bassist. "He really understood where we were coming from; we just clicked." Jonathan Gabriel, Jr., keyboards, added, "Plus, Jerome is a cool town with a great vibe and we've got a fantastic following in central Arizona."

The new recordings are expected to be completed in early September.

About Phoenix & Dragon

Phoenix & Dragon combines the complexity of progressive rock, the aggression of traditional metal, and the harmonic qualities of classical music to create its own brand of instrumental progressive power metal. The currently unsigned band, which plays with jaw-dropping musicianship, is Teddy Arunski and Nikki Rowell on guitars, Jermaine Mars on bass, Jonathan Gabriel, Jr., on keyboards, and Max Wieden on drums.

Learn more at www.phoenixanddragon.us
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domingo, agosto 10, 2014

Classic Rock Heroes Enuff Z’nuff Mark Their 30th Anniversary With The Release Of Their First Ever Covers Album!

Los Angeles, CA - Celebrating an amazing 30 years as one of the hardest working bands in show business, Enuff Z'nuff proudly present this exciting new project, a heartfelt salute to the music and artists who have inspired them over the course of their 3 decade career! Covered In Gold, a collection of 12 brand new studio recordings, features an eclectic assortment of cover tunes including Bowie's "The Jean Genie," Nirvana's "All Apologies," Prince's "When Doves Cry," Smokey Robinson's "Tears Of A Clown" and lots more, all of which showcase this group's incredibly diverse yet supremely melodic sensibility. The album also includes 2 rare bonus tracks, a live unplugged version of the group's 1989 hit single "New Thing" plus another cover, of The Beatles' "You've Got To Hide Your Love Away," performed live on the Howard Stern show.
 
Founder, bassist, singer and namesake of the group, Chip Z'nuff, has led the band through its highest highs as well as its most turbulent times. The band scored two major successes in 1989 with hit singles off of their self-titled debut album, the aforementioned "New Thing" as well as the powerful ballad "Fly High Michelle," both spent 46 weeks in the Top Ten on MTV and earned them a gold record. on MTV. In 1991, the band released their second album Strength, which had Rolling Stone magazine calling them "The Hot Band Of The Year" as well as earning them numerous appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman. The mid-late '90s brought difficult changes, but Chip kept the Enuff Z'nuff torch burning with several tours both Stateside and overseas as well a steady stream of well-received studio albums.
 
Now an esteemed statesman of the music world, Chip continues to grow the EZ fanbase performing shows worldwide. He has also found a new passion in broadcasing, first as a frequent guest on Howard Stern's radio program and more recently as co-host of the TV show "Mancow TV." Covered In Gold, like Enuff Z'nuff, is further testament to the timeless appeal of great rock melodies, and not to be missed by fans of Steven Tyler, Robert Plant, and Paul Stanley. As David Letterman says of the group, "When it comes to Rock N' Roll, you don't need anybody else."
 
"These guys deserve Rock Superstar status!" - Howard Stern
 
"This band writes great songs!" - Paul Stanley
 
"One of the most exciting and gifted bands on the scene today!" - Rolling Stone magazine
 
"Enuff Z'nuff is one of the most underrated bands in the world!" - Steven Van Zandt
 
 
1. Everything Works If You Let It (Cheap Trick cover)
2. Stone Cold Crazy (Queen cover)
3. She Sells Sanctuary (The Cult cover)
4. All Apologies (Nirvana cover)
5. Believe It Or Not (The Greatest American Hero theme)
6. The Jean Genie (David Bowie cover)
7. Run For Your Life (The Beatles cover)
8. When Doves Cry (Prince cover)
9. Tears Of A Clown (Smokey Robinson & The Miracles cover)
10. The Stroke (Billy Squier cover)
11. Yankee Rose (David Lee Roth cover)
12. Jealous Guy (John Lennon cover)
BONUS TRACKS
13. You've Got To Hide Your Love Away (Live on Howard Stern)
14. New Thing (Live Unplugged In London)
 
To order the CD on Amazon: http://geni.us/3j3v
To order the digital version on iTunes: http://geni.us/2lfp
 
CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
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Capt. Beefheart Guitar Legend Zoot Horn Rollo Releases Four New Digital Only Tracks!

Asheville, NC - Much to the excitement of guitarists worldwide, guitar icon Zoot Horn Rollo (Bill Harkleroad), best known for his work with Capt. Beefheart's Magic Band, has made four new tracks, 'The Mask Tracks', available for the first time since the release of his critically acclaimed CD "We Saw a Bozo Under the Sea" in 2001.
 
"These four pieces are the musical representation of masks that my friend Roger Evers created. Therefore, the titles are simply the images of these incredible masks." - Zoot Horn Rollo
 
 
 
The other players who made this happen:
Mark Schneider: Bass
Jason Palmer: Drums
Sergei Teleshev: Accordion
Brian McWhorter: Trumpet
 
Check out samples of the tracks on Zoot Horn Rollo's music page. You can also purchase them in the store.
 
 
Rolling Stone Senior Editor David Fricke published a list of The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, with Zoot Horn Rollo outranking Eddie Van Halen, Johnny Winter, Mick Ronson, Lightnin' Hopkins, Link Wray, Neil Young, Danny Gatton and dozens more.
 
Bill Harkleroad joined Captain Beefheart's Magic Band at a time when they were changing from a straight ahead blues band into something completely different. Through the vision of Don Van Vliet (Captain Beefheart) they created a new form of music, which many at the time considered atonal and difficult, yet over the years has continued to exert a powerful influence!
 
Beefheart re-christened Harkleroad as Zoot Horn Rollo, and they embarked on recording one of the classic albums of all time, 'Trout Mask Replica'; produced by legendary Frank Zappa, the album remains an unparalleled work of musical inventiveness. Further LPs like 'Lick My Decals Off Baby', 'Spotlight Kid' and 'Clear Spot' highlighted what a truly innovative band they were, and what an outstanding original guitarist Bill Harkleroad had become!
 
Says Tom Wheeler, Former Editor in Chief, Guitar Player Magazine, "The music Bill Harkleroad has created in recent years somehow evokes the earthiness and passion that made rock and roll so sensual in, say, 1956, and made surf music so irresistibly catchy in 1963, and turned 3-chord country standards into some of the most heartbreaking poetry ever to seep out of a roadhouse jukebox. His music would never be mistaken for vintage rock or surf or country, but it shares a soul connection with those styles, even while, like the music of Jimi Hendrix, it takes us not only to new places but to places we didn't even know existed."
 
 
For more information: http://www.zoothornrollo.com/ 
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ProgDay 2014: TRAVIS LARSON BAND and ZOMBIE FROGS perform, LUZ DE RIADA withdraws.

Exibindo The Latest!.jpg
Travelers applying for an US visas worldwide have been having difficulty completing visa requests due to a global system failure at the US Department of State. The problem, which began back in July, has unfortunately left Luz de Riada without the required documentation to enter the US, with no guarantee that they will have them in hand by the date of ProgDay. For that reason, Luz de Riada has sadly been forced to cancel their participation at this year's festival. Both the band and ProgDay are very disappointed at this turn of events, but under the circumstances we felt it was the best course of action.
 
However, ProgDay is pleased to present two great bands as our final lineup announcements for the 20th anniversary show.
 
TRAVIS LARSON BAND:
 
With over a decade of recording and live performances under its belt, as well as a string of studio and live releases, the TRAVIS LARSON BAND has a long-established history on the fusion/instrumental rock scene.  While unquestionably a guitar-lover's dream, the dynamic power-trio offers more than just the expected display of technique.  Larson's fierce ensemble of chops is as focused on the melodical quality and soulfulness of the music as in the requisite skill necessary to perform the music.
 
"anyone who appreciates exceptionally composed rock instrumentals with a touch of jazz, informed by progressive ideals will find plenty to enjoy in TLBs latest offering. And if you get a chance to see them play live, absolutely don't miss it." - Peter Thelen, EXPOSE
 
ZOMBIE FROGS:
 
Based out of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, ZOMBIE FROGS is an instrumental quintet that has been compared to bands like DREAM THEATER and SCALE THE SUMMIT. However the band's use of piano and keys adds an almost romantic classicism at times that sets them apart from bands usually working this area of music. With a mix of progressive metal, symphonic rock and fusion, ZOMBIE FROGS opening set will definitely be a wake up call for ProgDay's 20th edition.
 
TRAVIS LARSON BAND (US) and ZOMBIE FROGS (US) will join ALEX CARPANI BAND (Italy) with DAVID JACKSON, BACKHAND (Venezuela), SENSATIONS' FIX (Italy), NECROMONKEY (Sweden), THE GALACTIC COWBOY ORCHESTRA (US), LUZ DE RIADA (Mexico) and KOTEBEL (Spain) at ProgDay 2014, the 20th Anniversary of the longest running progressive rock festival in the world.  ProgDay 2014 will take place on Saturday, August 30th, and Sunday, August 31st, at Storybook Farm in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  To hear music and for more information about this year's bands, please visit us at www.progday.net.
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Cleopatra Records To Release Guitars For Wounded Warriors CD Featuring Steve Morse, Billy Sheehan, Hal Lindes, Bumblefoot and Others

"...incredible and innovative guitar playing" - Hal Lindes of Dire Straits
  
Los Angeles, CA - From veteran multi-Emmy Award winning producer/composer Brian Tarquin comes this very special project featuring an incredible cast of musical virtuosos playing their hearts out for America's fallen soldiers! Tarquin produced, engineered and composed 'Guitars For Wounded Warriors', which showcases Tarquin's guitar prowess on every song along side such world-class shredders as Steve Morse, Billy Sheehan, Gary Hoey, Bumblefoot (Gun n Roses), Reb Beach (Whitesnake), Hal Lindes (Dire Straits), Chris Poland (Megadeth) and Chuck Loeb. The album features exclusively released tracks inspired by those military soldiers who have fought for country.
 
The Multi Emmy Award winning composer/guitarist Brian Tarquin has established himself as a top rate TV composer/recording artist and owner of Jungle Room Studios. In 2002, 2003 and 2005 he won an "Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction and Composition for a Drama Series" and has been nominated for an Emmy 6 times. In 2006 SESAC honored him with the Network Television Performance Award. Tarquin first graced the Top 20 Billboard Charts back in 1997 with the commercial release; 'This is Acid Jazz, Vol. 2' on Instinct Records, followed by several solo jazz albums, which charted Top 10 at Contemporary Jazz Radio in the late 90's. From 1996 to 2001, Brian recorded four solo albums, 'Ghost Dance', 'Last Kiss Goodbye', 'Soft Touch' and 'High Life' and has appeared in over 32 releases, selling over 140,000 records in his career.
 
"What an honor to be part of this album, to play alongside many of the best players out there! Had a blast trading solos with Brian Tarquin!! And best of all, this album supports an important cause, Wounded Warriors. Love to our Warriors, and to everyone for their support." - Ron 'Bumblefoot' Thal of Guns N Roses
 
"Absolute perfection!!" - Reb Beach of Whitesnake & Winger
 
"It is an honor to be a part of this cause. I was just turning drafting age at the end of the Vietnam War, and I still remember that the returning military weren't  always treated with the greatest respect. For our modern, volunteer military, we hopefully have learned to show our respect and gratitude. They don't set the policy, but they set the standards." - Steve Morse
 
"I had a blast playing bass on Black Hawk! It's a cool riff that pushes the song into a slick overdrive. Nice! Also, and more importantly, the cause it supports is supremely important to me and I'm honored to contribute to our brave soldiers in any way possible. Glad to be involved in this wonderful project!" - Billy Sheehan
 
"It's challenging, but always fun working with Brian. I feel we both have similar taste in music and in our approach to creating it. We are both searching for that elusive tone or phrase." - Chris Poland of Megadeth
 
"I had a lot of fun playing on it, The Band killed....!" - Chuck Loeb
 
"When Brian Tarquin sent me the song 'Baghdad' to play on I instantly loved it, very Black Sabbath feel. Brian killed it! 5 Licks To Hell by Brian Tarquin is a very riff driven song ala Dio/Sabbath we do some crazy trade off leads Brian is the real deal!" - Gary Hoey
 
"I'm honored and proud to be part of this!" - Alex De Rosso of Dokken
 
"A huge credit to Brian for giving us…and the other artists appearing here…the ability to practice their craft freely.  That vibe resonates deeply with the concept behind this release: recognizing those who've fought and were wounded defending our freedom. Here's to all the freedom fighters that enrich our lives…and our art." - The Flyin' Ryan Brothers
 
" 'Freedom' is freaking awesome...Love the tone from Brian Tarquin & Steve Morse. Thank you for giving Floyd Rose guitars that kind of exposure." - Mike Plunkett from Floyd Rose
 
Tracks:
 
1. Black Hawk feat. Billy Sheehan
2. Taliban Terror feat. Bumblefoot & Rob Beach
3. Charlie Surfs feat. Chris Poland
4. 5 Klicks To Hell feat. Gary Hoey
5. Surgical Strike feat. The Flyin' Ryan Brothers
6. Hunting feat. Chris Poland
7. Baghdad feat. Gary Hoey
8. Broken Arrow feat. Alex De Rosso
9. Sand & Blood feat. Hal Lindes
10. Escape Kabul feat. Chuck Loeb
11. Freedom feat. Steve Morse
 
iTunes pre-order link: http://geni.us/2qkS
Amazon pre-order link: http://geni.us/97c
 
 
CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
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Definitive Biography On Mike Scott & The Waterboys 'Strange Boat' Now Available On Gonzo MultiMedia

"To me there's no difference between Mike Scott and The Waterboys; they both mean the same thing. They mean myself and whoever are my current travelling musical companions." - Mike Scott

 
London, UK - Much to the excitement of Mike Scott & The Waterboys fans worldwide, 'Strange Boat', the definitive biography written by Ian Abrahams, is now available on Gonzo MultiMedia! 'Strange Boat' charts the twisting and meandering journey of Mike Scott, describing the literary and spiritual references that inform his songwriting and exploring the multitude of locations and cultures in which The Waterboys have assembled and reflected in their recordings.
 
From his early forays into the music scene in Scotland at the end of the 1970s, to his creation of a 'Big Music' that peaked with the hit single 'The Whole of the Moon' and onto the Irish adventure which spawned the classic Fisherman's Blues, his constantly restless creativity has led him through a myriad of changes.
 
With a revolving cast of troubadours at his side, he's created some of the most era-defining records of the 1980s, reeled and jigged across the Celtic heartlands, reinvented himself as an electric rocker in New York, and sought-out personal renewal in the spiritual calm of Findhorn's Scottish highland retreat. Mike Scott's life has been a tale of continual musical exploration entwined with an ever-evolving spirituality.
 
Says author Ian Abrahams, "It's been a really lovely task to update this book and revisit the musical and spiritual journey of Mike Scott, and to once again explore the mercurial talent that has set the The Waterboys on their twisting and turning journey. It's such a great story, full of change and development, paths and tributaries; it's one that I've enjoying relating immensely."
 
Originally published in 2007, this new edition is revised and updated and contains a 'bonus' feature on Mike Scott's Appointment With Mr Yeats album, originally published in R2 Rock N Reel magazine.
 
"An intriguing portrait of a modern musician" (Record Collector)
 
Ian Abrahams (born 1963) is a freelance journalist and biographer. His books include Hawkwind - Sonic Assassins, Strange Boat - Mike Scott & The Waterboys and, with Bridget Wishart, the forthcoming history of the free festivals, Festivalized: Music, Politics & The Alternative Culture. He's written for Record Collector, R2, Vive Le Rock, Shindig!, The Guardian, The Independent, Bass Guitar and others. Ian lives in Cornwall where his household includes two retired greyhounds who've never been to a muddy festival, tied on the end of a string.
 
Contact: Ian Abrahams, ianabrahams1@yahoo.co.uk, 07866831505.
 
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MoeTar new album on Magna Carta Records

DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT announces North American tour with ANIMALS AS LEADERS, MONUMENTS

As previously announced, guitar virtuoso and musical genius Devin Townsend has been hard at work on the new DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT and Ziltoid2 records for the past few months, preparing the world for Ziltoid The Omniscient's triumphant return and the follow-up to the critically acclaimed Epicloud! In support of this forthcoming epic double album due out in October, Hevy Devy will join ANIMALS AS LEADERS for a co-headlining tour in November/December with MONUMENTS as support.
 
See below for all tour dates, and stay tuned for more news about Ziltoid2 / the DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT coming soon!
 
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT, ANIMALS AS LEADERS, MONUMENTS North American tour dates
Nov. 17 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
Nov. 18 - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom *
Nov. 19 - Kelowna, BC - Level Nightclub *
Nov. 21 - Edmonton, AB - Union Hall
Nov. 22 - Calgary, AB - The Gateway *
Nov. 23 - Saskatoon, SK - O'Brians Event Centre
Nov. 24 - Winnipeg, MB - The Garrick Centre *
Nov. 25 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue
Nov. 26 - Chicago, IL - Metro *
Nov. 28 - Detroit, MI - St. Andrews Hall *
Nov. 29 - Cleveland, OH - House Of Blues
Nov. 30 - Toronto, ON - Phoenix Concert Theatre *
Dec. 1 - Montreal, QC - Club Soda
Dec. 3 - Baltimore, MD - Rams Head Live *
Dec. 4 - Philadelphia, PA - Trocadero
Dec. 5 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium *
Dec. 6 - New York, NY - Webster Hall
Dec. 8 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage *
Dec. 10 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live
Dec. 11 - Dallas, TX - Gas Monkey Bar N Grill *
Dec. 13 - Englewood, CO - Gothic Theatre
Dec. 14 - Albuquerque, NM - Sunshine Theater *
Dec. 15 - Mesa, AZ - The Nile Theatre
Dec. 16 - Los Angeles, CA - The Mayan *
Dec. 17 - San Francisco, CA - The Regency Ballroom
*=DTP closes show
 
Devin Townsend live in Europe
Aug. 5 - Utrecht, Netherlands - Tivoli Vredenburg
Aug. 6 - Cologne, Germany - Luxor
Aug. 7 - Berlin, Germany - Bi Nuu
Aug. 8 - Jaromer, Czech Republic - Brutal Assault Festival
Aug. 9 - Frankfurt, Germany - Nachtleben
Aug. 11 - Cervia Ra, Italy - Rock Planet
Aug. 13 - Lausanne, Switzerland - Les Docks
Aug. 14 - Dornbirn, Austria - Conrad Sohm
Aug. 15 - Dinkelsbuhl, Germany - Summerbreeze Festival
Aug. 17 - Devon, UK - Beautiful Days Festival
Sept. 4 - London, UK - Union Chapel
Sept. 6 - Helsinki, Finland - Savoy Teatteri
Apr. 13 - London, UK - Royal Albert Hall
 
Following the success of 2012's Epicloud, Devin Townsend released a special CD/DVD set, The Retinal Circus, in 2013, which featured a full choir and theatrical cast, visual and aural enhancements unlike any show Hevy Devy has done to date, several guest appearances, circus performances and more. This past May, Devin also self-released Casualties of Cool, an album that was crowd-funded by his hardcore fan-base, who pledged over 500% of the project's goal.
 
For a preview of The Retinal Circus, be sure to check out the live video for "Grace"; a video for the Casualties of Cool's "Flight" can be viewed here.
 
Devin Townsend online:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE

WHITE ARMS OF ATHENA: NEW ALBUM DUE LATER THIS YEAR

As-yet-untitled sophomore full-length recorded with producer Kurt Ballou (GodCity Studios)
  
 
WHITE ARMS OF ATHENA recently recorded their sophomore Prosthetic effort at GodCity Studio in Salem, Mass. with acclaimed producer and Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou (Every Time I Die, High On Fire, Kvelertak). The as-yet-untitled album -- expected to be released later this year -- will be mixed by Ballou, engineered and co-produced by Travis Kammeyer (Storm of Light, Generation of Vipers) and mastered by Alan Douches (Baroness, The Dillinger Escape Plan).
 
Lauded by Decibel for having "polished chops of lifelong shredders and a compostional sensibility that many older progressive musicians would gladly sell their ponytails to attain," WHITE ARMS OF ATHENA's forthcoming album proceeds in a new direction from their acclaimed 2011 full-length debut "Astrodrama," featuring a mélange of experimental progressive passages with a psychedelic-infused ambience.
 
The band, which has previously shared the stage with acts including Arsonists Get All The Girls, Katalepsy, Fallujah, The Contortionist, The Ocean, East of the Wall, Holy Grail and Baring Teeth, will release further information on the upcoming release in the coming weeks. Follow them on social media for the latest updates:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE
 

Big O Records Announce New Progressive Rock Group THEO

Big O Records (Lansing, MI) is excited to present the debut album by
the new progressive rock band THEO. Formed by world reknown
keyboardist Jim Alfredson (organissimo, Dirty Fingers, Janiva Magness,
Greg Nagy Band, Root Doctor) THEO harkens back to the keyboard-centric
superbands of the 1970s like Yes, Genesis, and Emerson Lake and
Palmer, but with a distinctly modern and bold approach.

Alfredson is joined by bassist Gary Davenport (805 Band, Janiva
Magness), drummer Kevin Depree (Sound Is Red, Greg Nagy Band) and
guitarist Jake Reichbart. The eponymous debut album features six
tracks including an epic 30 minute opening suite.

Jim Alfredson is best known for his work with acclaimed jazz trio
organissimo and is considered among the best Hammond organists working
today. As Downbeat magazine wrote, "Alfredson is a remarkable organist
who seamlessly synthesizes several generations of keyboard
influences…" Keyboard magazine, in reviewing organissimo's album Alive
& Kickin', wrote that Alfredson "successfully walk[s] the line between
complex and accessible…"

With THEO, Alfredson brings his considerable musicianship to bear on
his first love, progressive rock. As Alfredson explains: "I grew up
listening to Peter Gabriel, Genesis, Yes, Jethro Tull, King Crimson,
Gentle Giant… all the classic prog bands. I even made my own prog
'album' when I was 16 that I passed out to friends and family. But
then I was bitten by the jazz bug and dedicated the next 17 years of
my life to figuring out that music. Surprisingly, that education paved
the road back to progressive music, back to my love of synthesizers
and exploring different musical forms. I feel like my musical journey
has brought me full circle."

THEO also represents a return to the concept of the keyboardist as a
vital and irreplaceable part of the group, rather than a mere sideman.
"Most prog these days is metal-based," says Alfredson, "and there's
nothing wrong with that. But I feel like it's past time keyboardists
get our due again. My primary influence is Tony Banks; his melodicism,
his understatedness, his lyricism, and his use of timbre. There's a
time and a place for flashiness and there's a time and place for
subtlety. THEO is a manifestation of that belief. It should be about
the song first, putting that song within a certain atmosphere, and
then exploring."

THEO's intrepid and dynamic music is paired with auspicious lyrical
themes of corporatization, consumerism, loss of innocence, exile, and
the obsession with celebrity. Lead vocals are handled by Alfredson
himself. Usually relegated to background duties, Alfredson's
surprisingly flexible baritone voice shifts from soaring muscularity
to intimate falsetto and everything between. "I think that may be the
most notable aspect of this project for my long time fans," says
Alfredson. "Those that know me only as an instrumentalist and
background singer will hopefully be pleasantly surprised."

THEO is scheduled for a November 17th, 2014 release on Big O Records.

http://www.theoHQ.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/THEO/656605707769844

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_6OXW_cDO0&feature=player_embedded
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE
http://www.progressiverockbr.com
http://progrockmetal.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/carlosvaz.ferreira

Osada Vida - new album with a new drummer! Photos and short clip from the studio!

As previously announced, Metal Mind Productions will release the fifth full-length album by Osada Vida, one of the most interesting Polish bands on the rock/metal scene. Their new, yet untitled material will be released in October.
 
Their highly acclaimed previous album "Particles" made the band work even harder on the follow-up material. In the meantime, the band have undergone a few line-up changes: Bartek Bereska (guitar) was replaced by Janek Mitoraj and drummer Adam Podzimski - by Marek Romanowski.
 
Osada Vida - Marek Romanowski
 
Łukasz Lisiak (bass guitar) comments on the changes and their impact on the new album:
"I think, the new album is a continuation of a certain road, the album 'Particles' being its last stop. Certainly, the approach to composing used on the album 'Particles' was also used while writing songs for the new album - the structure of songs is more simple, as we were trying to avoid excessive complexity. We are using Marek Majewski's talent as much as possible, so finally we no longer have to hide or shorten the vocal parts. At the same time, however, we are still amusing ourselves with all those little twisted, very atmospheric parts known from our previous releases. Our new guitarist, Janek Mitoraj, has a great musical sense and equally excellent guitar skills, which allows us to mix new ideas with 'Osada Vida' style. Our newest member, drummer Marek Romanowski, is a musician who knows exactly how to play with rhythm. He also has a great sense of humor, and sense of humor is a must in Osada Vida team. You can therefore expect us to develop and consolidate the ideas first introduced on the 'Particles' album, though there still will be place for interesting and engrossing passages, which those fans who liked them so much on our previous releases came to expect."
 
At the end of July, the band entered MaQ Records studio to record rhythm section parts. A short movie uploaded on Metal Mind Productions' official YouTube channel introduces their new drummer Marek Romanowski. You can watch the clip at THIS location.
 
Łukasz: „Later on, we will record guitars, keys and vocals. The album will be produced by Sławek Gładyszewski, who also worked with us on the 'Particles' album. Hopefully, this time his ear, knowledge and experience won't disappoint as well."
 
A selection of photos from the recording studio is available at THIS location.
 
Osada Vida is one of the most interesting Polish bands on the prog-rock/metal scene. Their discography includes three demos and four well received official releases - "Three Seats Behind a Triangle" (2006/2007), "The Body Parts Party" (2008), "Uninvited Dreams" (2009) and "Particles" (2013). Their albums feature elaborately beautiful music in the vein of Yes, Porcupine Tree, Pain Of Salvation and Riverside. In early July, Osada Vida released their first live DVD entitled "Where The Devils Live" featuring the recording of their live appearance at the Wyspianski Theater in Katowice, Poland in Autumn 2011. In 2012 the band debuted in a new improved line-up - they have added a new vocalist Marek Majewski, previously known from the band Acute Mind. In Autumn 2013 the band replaced guitarist Bartek Bereska with young and talented musician – Jan Mitoraj. In Summer 2014 drummer Adam Podzimski left the band and his place was taken by Marek Romanowski. Osada Vida is also recognized worldwide - they played at the famous US' ROSfest 2011 and at the beginning of October 2012 they were a part of Israeli ProgStage festival where they performed next to Andromeda, The Flower Kings or Orphaned Land.
 
The band's fifth studio album is scheduled for release in October 2014. More details to be revealed soon!
 
Osada Vida - current line-up:
Marek Majewski - vocal
Łukasz Lisiak - bass guitar
Janek Mitoraj - guitars
Rafał "r6" Paluszek - keyboards
Marek Romanowski - drums
 
Osada Vida – official websites:
https://www.facebook.com/osadavida
osadavida.art.pl
 
Metal Mind Productions

Noturnall: new Brazilian supergroup featuring ex-members of Angra and Shaman launches DVD with participation of Russell Allen

Noturnall! This is the name of the new Brazilian metal supergroup formed by Shaman members, Thiago Bianchi (vocal), Fernando Quesada (bass), Leo Mancini (guitar), Junior Carelli (keyboards) besides the worldwide famous drummer Aquiles Priester (Hangar, ex-Angra).

Exibindo Noturnall.jpg
 
How it was supposed be, the band was already born being considered the new sensation of the Brazilian rock/metal scene, but not only because is formed by this true "dream team", but mainly for bringing an innovative musical approach: modern, heavy and aggressive music, but still melodic and progressive as never heard before!
 
Recorded at Fusao VM&T Studios in Sao Paulo and at The Shanty Shack Studios in New Jersey (USA), Noturnall's debut album has as one of the producers the Symphony X and Adrenaline Mob vocalist, Russell Allen, and has beaten some records since its release in February. For five consecutive weeks the album held the first position among the "Best Sellers" of Die Hard Records - one of the major Brazilian CDs stores - besides have beaten the record for pre-orders. The album also appeared on the second position on the charts of  Roadie Crew Magazine, the most important rock magazine from Brazil, achieving better position than bands like Within Temptation and Epica.
 
Noturnall debuted on March 29th with a historical show at Carioca Club in Sao Paulo. On the ocassion, none other than Russell Allen made a special guest appearance on a set list that counted with all the songs from the CD besides some suprises that thrilled the fans.
 
Completly sold-out, the event was filmed for Noturnall's first DVD: "First Night Live". Several tons of equipment were used, including 15 cameras, three cranes and a 10 feet long led screen.
 
Produced by three different Brazilian companies, FX Render, Foggy Films and Fusao Studios, Noturnall's DVD "First Night Live" will be released during Expomusic Fair that this year takes place from September 17th to 21th at Expo Center Norte in Sao Paulo.
 
Noturnall launched a video of the song "Hate" extracted from "First Night Live".
 
 
For Further Information:
 
 
 
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE

Corvus Stone II, Featuring Special Guest Appearance​s by Sean Filkins, Phil Naro & German Vergara.

 Critically Acclaimed Avant Garde Proggers Corvus Stone Return With Highly Anticipated 2nd II, Featuring Special Guest Appearances by Sean Filkins, Phil Naro & German Vergara.
 
 Exibindo Corvus Stone II.png
  
Corvus Stone is best known as an Avant Garde Studio Prog band featuring members from all over the globe. The band has been very busy since the release of their critically acclaimed debut album in 2012. Like the first album, Corvus Stone II will feature a jam packed 80 minute CD once again housed in a beautiful Digipak with a colorful booklet both designed by Sonia Mota. The CD will feature 16 glorious tracks to spark ones imagination and even satisfy unbelievers that Corvus Stone is a force to be reckoned with and is here to stay. Track Listing: The Simple Life, Sneaky Entrance In To Lisa, Early Morning Call, Boots For Hire, Purple Stone, A Stoned Crow Meets The Rusty Wolff Rat, Lisa Has A Cigar, Mr. Cha Cha, Eternal Universe, Uncle Schunkle, Dark Tower, Mystery Man, Scandinavians in Mexico, Camelus Bactrianus, Moaning Lisa and Campfire. Corvus Stone Return With Classic Lineup:
 
Colin Tench: Guitars, Petri Lemmy Lindström: Bass, Pasi Koivu: Keyboards and the newest addition to the outfit is Robert Wolff:
Drums & Percussion.
 
Once Again The Album Will Feature Some Very Special Guests:
Emmy award vocalist Phil Naro (Talas, Backhand, Druckfarben), Sean Filkins: Vocals (Solo & Big Big Train) German Vergara:
 
Vocals (Aisles) plus many other vocal guests, some things are best kept a secret. The album will also feature some returning guests: Blake Carpenter: Vocals (The Minstrel's Ghost, Voice of the Enslaved) Victor Tassone:
 
Percussion (Unified Past, Andy John Bradford's Oceans 5) Andres Guazzelli: Vocals (CTP/Colin Tench Project, Solo).
 
In conjunction with the upcoming release:
 
Corvus Stone have launched a brand new website, a promo video for the first single "Scandinavians in Mexico" and have made the album available as a preorder.
 
Further Information Can Be Found At:
 
Official Website: http://www.corvusstone.com/
Melodic Revolution Records: http://melodicrevolution.com/
 
Video "Scandinavians in Mexico":
 
 
Album Preorder:
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-ZINE

quarta-feira, agosto 06, 2014

DETHLEHEM to embark on "Destroyer​s of the Realm" US tour

Pittsburg, Pennsylvania's RPG metal knights DETHLEHEM are about to embark on their "Destroyers of the Realm" mid-west U.S. tour.

dethlehem DOTRT 11x17
 
The run of dates will see the band pillaging throughout the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Pennsylvania in order to showcase songs from their upcoming 3rd cd "Destroyers of the Realm".
 
URIZEN, NEKROGOBLIKON, LORDS OF THE TRIDENT, RAINBOWDRAGONEYES and RADIATRIX will be some of the bands brave enough to do battle with the round table crew during the tour.

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 For the latest band news and show dates visit their official Facebook page:
 
 
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine

segunda-feira, agosto 04, 2014

Dire Peril unveils artwork, guest musicians and release date for “Queen of The Galaxy” EP. Announce new lead guitarist.

California Sci-Fi Power Metallers DIRE PERIL have announced plans to release their next studio EP "Queen of The Galaxy" on September 26th, 2014 through DEAD INSIDE RECORDS.

DP - QOTG
Vocals for the album were tracked by Norman Skinner (Ex-Imagika, Skinner, Hellscream) at Savage Screams Studios in Fremont, CA. The remainder of the album was recorded at Alien Productions in Carmichael, CA and mixed\mastered by JK Northrup (XYZ, Liberty n' Justice).
 
Special guest musicians include Brittney Hayes (Unleash The Archers) who takes on the duties of lead vocals for the title track "Queen of The Galaxy". Guitarist Tony Cordisco (Judicator) also makes an appearance on the track "Space Invaders".
 
"Queen Of The Galaxy" track listing:
1. My Vengeance Is Everything (Chaos Reigns)
2. Space Invaders
3. Queen Of The Galaxy
4. Something About You (Boston Cover)
 
Cover artwork for the album was created by Horror\Fantasy artist Sean "Zombie" Walusko.
 
As of August 4th, 2014 the album is available for special pre-order through the Dead Inside Records Website. The 1st 100 pre-orders will be shipped with an exclusive autographed "Queen of The Galaxy" Poster.
 
 
DIRE PERIL self-released their debut EP "Astronomical Minds" in 2012 to rave reviews from both fans and critics around the world. The band has been hard at work writing and recording for multiple albums. The band are currently finishing recordings for their follow-up EP to "Queen of The Galaxy" titled "Through Time & Space" tentatively due February 2015. A full-length effort titled "Final Scenes For Forgotten Worlds" is in the final writing stages and nearing completion as well.
 
With so many new releases on the horizon DIRE PERIL are excited to announce the addition of new lead guitarist Jearme Greathouse to the band's ranks. Jearme a veteran of the Northern California Metal scene brings with him a strong work ethic and an energizing style of playing and stage presence. With the final piece in place the band plans to perform many live dates in support of the new album.

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For the latest band news and show dates visit their official Facebook page:
 
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Progressive Rock & Progressive Metal - E-Zine