Singer/Songwriter Ted Brown Releases Third Studio Album “Solstice Canyon Loop”

Best known as longtime guitarist, vocalist and collaborator in the Greg Johnson Band, Ted releases his third studio album Solstice Canyon Loop. Tracked at PLYRZ Studio in Santa Clarita CA June 27-28, 2020, the songs tell stories of Ted’s journey from his hometown of Auckland NZ to his current home of Los Angeles CA where he’s lived since 2002.

Says Ted, “Those months, the pandemic, had me reminiscing and transported back in time like I think it did for so many people and the songs I wrote are mostly a product of that period. Moments from the past came back to me in vivid but fleeting pieces, and I found that I’d mix up things that happened in the U.S. with experiences from my hometown! In the end, the songs take place in either the NZ of my youth, or the 21st Century in SoCal!”

The album “Solstice Canyon Loop” is a reminiscence of a journey. From Ted’s crazy, dangerous troubled twenties in my hometown of AK New Zealand, to his restoration to sanity in Los Angeles CA. He was able to start again in the U.S. and had time to really pause and reflect on this during the lockdown months of the pandemic. Plus, Ted really got in touch with the memory of some of those who never made it.

Calling on members of his 70’s Country cover band, The Electric Fields, Ted assembled some of his favorite L.A. guys to play on the record. Notably, Dusty Wakeman on Bass (Dwight Yoakam, Lucinda Williams, Buck Owens), Mark Hart on Keys (Crowded House, Supertramp), Joel Martin on Guitar (Grateful to the Core, Pearl), Tim Walker on Pedal Steel (Glen Campbell, Jimmy Webb, The White Buffalo) and CalArts Alum and musician extraordinaire Rob Anderson on Drums. Ben King, Ted’s Greg Johnson bandmate, added sweet harmonies from his studio in NZ.

Says Ted, “I was fortunate to have NZ Recording Engineer Neil Baldock living and working in L.A. at the time and based at Jim Scott’s Plyrz studio. I knew he was planning to return home so I really wanted to get the songs down. Fortunately, Plyrz is a huge space (ideal for social distancing) and basically a playground of instruments and gear where we were able to track the tunes live, including vocals. We did it the old-fashioned way with everyone playing together in the room. We tracked seven and I recorded the last song, Lauraly, at my home studio in West L.A. The names have, in some cases, been changed or abbreviated but never to protect the innocent, mostly ‘cos they ‘sang’ better. Postproduction was a trans-pacific process but I’m stoked that we got there in the end (thanks Neil!). I’m really proud of this record and everyone who was involved. Hope you enjoy it!”

“This highly accomplished third solo album finds him in full southwest alt country mode telling hard won life lessons and stories in the company of a superb, punchy band….Brown is in strong voice and these eight, diverse songs are lyrically concise, focused and stand favourably alongside whatever other alt.country you might be enjoying.” - Graham Reid- Elsewhere (NZ)

“Powered by his robust and honeyed tenor, the songs here speak of grown-up regrets, love and longing. And they do that while weaving their own understated mid-tempo magic that's part country-rock, part singer-songwriter balladry.” - Russell Baillie - NZ Herald

First Single “Mr O’Neil” on 3 hourly rotate here:
https://www.audacy.com/stations/tomorrowshitstoday

To purchase:
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/solstice-canyon-loop/1730233477
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2RqjSVsS3KCHuHN8UosZvl?si=hvH7oPcLTW2glGEKM6pUYw

For more information:
www.tedbrownsongs.net
tedsings.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/tedsings

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

UK Acoustic Ensemble Auburn Featuring Liz Lenten To Release New Single “Don’t Give Up” February 23, 2024!

Auburn has been captivating audiences around the world with their unique blend of Americana, blues and roots music. With varied reviewers’ comparisons from Bonnie Raitt and Macy Gray to Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits, their songs grab you melodically and tell stories of life’s ups and downs.

The band have recorded their last 4 albums in Nashville, Tennessee, with award- winning, Grammy-nominated producer Thomm Jutz, gaining airplay worldwide, and touring extensively, as special guests with Sophie Ellis Bexter, Jefferson Starship and Martin Carthy amongst others, as well as many headline shows.

Their brand-new single “Don’t Give Up: was recorded between Nashville and Malvern Hills, UK. Produced and recorded by Thomm Jutz, Liz Lenten also worked with seasoned vocal producer/hit songwriter Martin Sutton on the vocals.

Says Liz, “‘Don’t Give Up’ is all about how difficult life can get, particularly in today’s crazy times… and offering support and hope, to get through your troubles.  Sometimes, we all need a helping hand; to know we’re not alone, and to be told ‘you’re enough – you got this!’”

“Intimate kind of retro styled blues” – Music Street Journal (USA)

“Auburn makes wonderfully atmospheric music…like the kind of country that first turned rappers on to Johnny Cash because he was such an OG” – Midwest Records (USA)

Credits
Liz Lenten – Lead Vocals
Thomm Jutz – Guitars, Bass, Keys (Nanci Griffiths, Mary Gauthier, Mac Wise)
Lynn Williams – Drums (Delbert McClinton, Lee Roy Parnell, The Wallflowers)
Cat Aimi – Harmony Vocals (Wanted Sisters)

Vocal Production – Martin Sutton (Leanne Rimes, Backstreet Boys)
Recorded, Mixed and Produced by Thomm Jutz

Auburn Acoustic will be touring Autumn 2024 – please check website for details.
www.auburn.org.uk
www.instagram.com/auburnbanduk

Release date: 23rd February 2024
Label: Scarlet Records

To pre-order “Don’t Give Up”: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/auburnwithlizlenten/dont-give-up

US / UK Press: Glass Onyon PR - glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Live booking agent: Daisy Gilham - daisy.gilham@stradamusic.com

All Photo credits: Sebastian Lenten

Featured Track Review: Paul Adams-Moon Over Prairie

"Moon Over Prairie" is an acoustic guitar track from Paul Adams. He describes it as a painting of the prairie. It is an organic spacial fingerstyle piece in the mood of John Fahey, Leo Kottke, or Will Ackerman.

After listening to the track and watching the video, I agree with that assessment. The spatial reference applies to the track and the beautiful video accompanying it.

Paul is a challenging artist to pin down. He is too eclectic to do so. His acoustic guitar playing is outstanding, with flavorings from blues (albeit some excellent slide playing) to country. And he does it all to make it sound rooted in Americana, along with a touch of ethereal.

Paul Adams's track and video of "Moon Over Prairie" is picturesque enough without the video. However, the images presented help to complete the painting, and the moments he creates in the music tell the story. It is over 5 minutes of instrumental acoustic guitar that any music lover can appreciate.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

November 6, 2023

I wonder what it is that Paul Adams doesn't do? Working in multiple genres, his 13 critically acclaimed albums have over 128 million streams on Pandora and can be heard on Spotify, Sirius Radio The Spa, Music Choice, Amazon Radio, Echoes, Apple Radio, Tidal and other worldwide platforms...READ MORE...

The New MICHAEL VINCENT Album ELECTRIC FOX Delivers an Exciting Infusion of Positively Electric Energy!

San Francisco, CA – MICHAEL VINCENT is a well-known SF Bay Area singer/songwriter and recording artist who performs with his backing band U No Who in clubs, bistros, and concert venues across the country; and occasionally as a solo artist in more intimate settings with his trusty lead guitarist Scott Warren. Available worldwide on May 26, 2023, the new MICHAEL VINCENT album ELECTRIC FOX showcases an exciting new direction in Michael’s writing style that displays a range of genres from Power Pop to Alternative to Blues to Americana/Roots music, and even edgier Garage Rock influences while always maintaining that signature MICHAEL VINCENT feel.

In addition to featuring some exhilarating new material like the single “Together,” a frenetic and fast-and-furious depiction of a couple trying to make it against all odds, the new MICHAEL VINCENT album ELECTRIC FOX is also a compilation of personal and audience favorites from the last 10 years, including a redux of three songs previously recorded on an earlier Americana/Roots project that have now been updated with an exciting infusion of positively electric energy! The first four tracks of ELECTRIC FOX were produced by Keith Greeninger at his Wind River Recording Studio in Santa Cruz, CA (Keith also co-wrote the lyrics for the surf rock track “Last Summer”)!

MICHAEL VINCENT and U NO WHO will be performing at Barterra Winery in Half Moon Bay, CA, on Saturday, May 27 in celebration of the ELECTRIC FOX album release on Angel Blossom Records, Michael’s own Bay Area independent label that he and his wife Janet Klein Hollingshead formed over the last few years to cultivate a hand-picked collection of talented local artists.

U No Who is comprised of guitarist Scott Warren (NYC’s White Collar Crime); bassist and backup vocalist Dave Mendoza (Lydia Pence & Cold Blood, Gismo, Mick Gilette, Ronnie Beck); and percussionist Anthony Fulgar (Santana, The Tellez Band, Pete Escovedo). With influences from across the spectrum including New Order, The Strokes, Nada Surf, Fruit Bats, Snow Patrol, Malo, Azteca, and Jaco Pastorius, the band came together in 2018 to perform live with MICHAEL VINCENT. Michael’s influences are originally from the Folk-Rock era of the singer/songwriters of the ’70s, along with these day’s more contemporary influences. All the guys – Scott, Dave, and Anthony – bring a whole set of flavors to their performances, from Blues to Classic to Pop to Progressive Rock to Latin, and even Jazz-Fusion.

MICHAEL VINCENT began writing and performing in his early 20s and has released seven solo albums since his debut Lines and Wonders in 1993. He’s made music in some of San Francisco’s more notable music haunts and has recorded with nationally known artists such as Mark Karan (The Other Ones, Rat Dog, Phil Lesh and Friends), who was featured on the MICHAEL VINCENT album Radio (2007).

Other previous MICHAEL VINCENT releases include Upside Down (2012) Jump! (2016), The Longest Time (2018), and For the Record (2020); and he has opened for phenomenal artists such as Jeff Pehrson (Further, Box Set, The Fall Risk) and the stellar Ruth Gerson (who herself toured with Dave Matthews).

Michael’s songwriting and performance philosophy is change it up! “You don’t listen to one kind of music; I don’t listen to just one kind of music,” he observes, “So why in the world would I only want to make just one kind of music?” Find out what he means on May 26 with the new MICHAEL VINCENT album ELECTRIC FOX!

To order or stream ELECTRIC FOX please visit: https://lnk.to/MichaelVincentElectricFox

For more information about MICHAEL VINCENT please visit: www.michaelvincentmusic.com

For press and interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For digital marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

Folk/Americana Trio The Refugees to Release CALIFORNIA, an Homage to Harmony-Focused California Bands of the 60s & 70s on May 19th, 2023

“It's a beautiful record!  And a brilliant idea. Load up the woody with surfboards and head for the waves! This record makes me want to be a Beach Boy!” - Stewart Copeland

The trio of artists that is The Refugees emerged on the music scene as a verifiably unmatched force of talent, diversity, and experience. Each successful in their own right as a solo artist, Cidny Bullens, Deborah Holland and Wendy Waldman formed their unique and innovative group in 2007 and since that time have been wowing audiences, radio DJs, and music critics alike with their soaring harmonies, indelible musicianship, and unforgettably humorous stage presence.

Individually, The Refugees have logged almost five decades in the industry, with more than twenty solo albums and multiple Grammy Award nominations to their credit, featuring musical styles that blend country, rock, folk, blues and Americana. To describe them as eclectic would be an understatement. These three artists have utilized their intense drive and relentless passions to create an entirely new sound.

Their newest album, CALIFORNIA, ten cover songs of iconic, harmony-focused California bands of the 60s and 70s will be released on May 19th, 2023. One of the strongest components of The Refugees is their 3-part vocals. Cidny had suggested The Refugees record an album of some of the bands that featured 3-part harmonies and were a big influence on all three members. The band combed through many songs and finally narrowed it down to this list. These recordings are a tribute to, and, The Refugees own unique take on, classic recordings by The Beach Boys (“Good Vibrations,” “Sail On Sailor”), The Mamas and the Papas (“Monday Monday,” “Dedicated to the One I Love”), Crosby, Stills, and Nash (“You Don’t Have To Cry,” “Carry On,”), The Byrds (“So You Want To Be a Rock and Roll Star”), Sly and the Family Stone (“Stand”), The Flying Burrito Brothers (“Sin City”) and Buffalo Springfield (“For What It’s Worth”). Of course, The Refugees put their own unique stamp on each track, making CALIFORNIA not only a celebration of what was, but a revelation of the power these songs still hold today.

Cidny Bullens (formerly Cindy) got started as a studio back-up singer for Bob Crewe and then toured with Elton John. Cindy garnered two Grammy Award nominations for her work on the Grease Movie Soundtrack and her own album Desire Wire, has had several Nashville co-writes on the Country charts, scored the Award-winning documentary Space Between Breaths, and wrote the musical Islands which appeared on Broadway as a special tribute after 9/11. Cindy’s album Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth (1999) won AFIM’s Best Rock Album in 2000 and became a worldwide phenomenon for bereaved parents. In 2016 Cidny premiered his one person show Somewhere Between: Not an Ordinary Life. The show was voted Best Solo Show for 2016 by The Nashville Scene. His memoir, TransElectric: My Life as a Cosmic Rock Star, will be released in June, 2023

Deborah Holland began her career as the singer and songwriter for the critically acclaimed band, Animal Logic (with Stewart Copeland of the Police and virtuoso jazz-bassist Stanley Clarke). From 1987-1991 they released 2 albums, toured internationally, had videos on MTV, VH-1, and Much Music, made numerous TV appearances (David Letterman, The Tonight Show, etc.). One of the songs on Animal Logic II “Another Place,” is a duet with Jackson Browne. Deborah has released 6 solo albums, has scored and had dozens of songs placed in film and TV (Circuitry Man, Longmire, Highlander 11, My Name is Earl, The Beast, etc.), was a long-time music professor at California State University of Los Angeles, and then Langara College in Vancouver, BC. In 2022, Animal Logic released 2 new singles. She is a dual American-Canadian citizen.

Wendy Waldman is recognized as one of the leading recording artists and songwriters in music beginning with her acclaimed solo Warner Bros. records and then as a member of Bryndle (Karla Bonoff, Andrew Gold, Kenny Edwards). In 1973 Rolling Stone named her first album “singer-songwriter debut of the year.” She is responsible for penning dozens of songs for other artists including some of the best loved and most well-known songs of the past several decades including Vanessa Williams’ “Save the Best for Last,” and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s (and then Garth Brooks) version of “Fishin’ in the Dark.” She is highly regarded for her work as a record producer as well, overseeing countless projects in multiple genres, including Suzy Boguss, New Grass Revival, John Cowan, and international pop star Meitek Szczesniak.

Here’s what’s been said about The Refugees:

“Heavenly harmonies – Celestial singing. Sounds of stars in the making, with your songs as safe haven. Terrific.” - Michael Nesmith

“The Refugees offer up a terrific combination of engaging, passionate, and poetic songwriting, high-caliber musicianship, and gorgeous vocals. The combined musical pedigree of Cidny Bullens, Deborah Holland, and Wendy Waldman is unparalleled. Don't even think about missing an opportunity to catch them in concert.” - Anil Prasad from Innerviews, Guitar Player and Bass Player

“Like the name implies, The Refugees have seen a lot and survived... Listen to the disc and you'll know how- through raw talent!” - Rob Reinhart, Producer of Acoustic Café

“The Refugees have a spirit and light that captures your attention right from the downbeat until they've left the building. These are not just 3 very talented women, they are great entertainers.” - Sleepy John Sandidge, KPIG Radio

“The Refugees have something special. They can perform those harmonies that Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young could not nail at Woodstock. They can pick their guitars. Hell, Deborah even played an accordion, Cidny a mandolin. And the material resonates.” - Bob Lefsetz, the Lefsetz Letter

Release date May 19th

For more information:
Store: https://www.therefugeesmusic.com/store
Website: https://www.therefugeesmusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therefugeesmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therefugeesmusic/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/tag/therefugeesmusic
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/the-refugees
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@therefugeesmusic

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

Americana Ensemble AUBURN Featuring Liz Lenten To Release “FAVOURITE MISTAKE EP” on April 28, 2023

After lockdown, desperate to reconnect with music, singer/songwriter Liz Lenten spent a year with the TSA (The Songwriting Academy) writing at home, in her Lincolnshire countryside studio, and after a few song assignments (from the brilliant mentors), set to challenge her, she ended up with a whole bunch of new songs….recording initially at home, then adding instruments and musicians via cyberspace in London, Wales, Sussex and even Australia - until sending everything to Nashville to award-winning long-time collaborator and producer, Thomm Jutz, to finish off recording and mix.

The first 4 completed tracks make up the digital “FAVOURITE MISTAKE EP”, which will be released on April 28th. A further 4 track digital EP will be released in September 2023, and a vinyl, with both EPs + 4 extra new songs, will be out at end of the year.

As always, the lyrical themes cover a myriad of emotions – Love, Resignation, Betrayal, Metamorphosis, Yearning…amongst others!

With wonderful contributions from Thomm Jutz (guitars), Mo Pleasure (bass), JB Bennetts (drums), Ruth Elder & London String Group (cello/violin), Eden Parish & Ivan Toolit (harmonies), Will Fowler (piano), and featuring Nottingham-based rapper - Sanka GBM.

“…. it’s Indie-Americana / singer-songwriter….so many different, but well-blended ingredients – it’s beautiful – and very Auburn….…perfect for a road trip playlist!!” - Pat Garvey/CILC

The second digital EP will be released in the Autumn, and finally a vinyl, with both EP’s + extra new recordings, to be released in time for Christmas.

Auburn will be playing some UK festivals summer 2023 – keep an eye on website and socials for info:
www.auburn.org.uk
www.instagram.com/auburnbanduk

Spotify Pre-save link: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/auburnwithlizlenten/favourite-mistake-ep-2

Photo credit – Sebastian Lenten 2023

Press & radio contact: Billy James, Glass Onyon PR, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Live bookings: Daisy Gilham, Strada Music: daisy.gilham@stradamusic.co.uk

Roots Rock Singer-Songwriter and Guitarist Griff Peters To Release Debut Solo Album Canyons and Waves Feb 10, 2023

Nature has always been spiritually grounding for singer-songwriter and guitarist Griff Peters. A few years ago, when the San Diego, California-based roots rock artist was mired in a heart-wrenching personal struggle, he went out to the beach and sat down on a rock formation. There, Griff asked himself this question: if he was told he had a year to live, what would he do?

The answer was simple—make his solo debut, Canyons and Waves (Impropriety Records), a deep and sincere body of work crafted by a skilled and experienced artist with a worthy message of hope within darkness. That very rock formation graces the cover of the album, and from that fateful day on, Griff’s life has been powerfully transformed. Griff says “This is the long-awaited showing-up for my own life as an artist. The music paints a picture of an inner-knowing and the rekindling of hope when we feel lost. Canyons and Waves is a musical journey illuminating the Healing Path from darkness and pain back to gratitude and presence. Imagine the “Canyon” as the mysterious and intricate groove on a vinyl record. The “Wave” is the transformative sound energy coming forth… amplified, multiplied… leading lost souls homeward.”

Griff’s signature musical voice is best described as “artistic roots-rock,” an amalgamation of rural Americana, blues, folk, elements of avant-garde, prog, and album-side rock.  Besides being a sage and sensitive songwriter, and soulful vocalist, Griff is a subtly virtuosic guitarist and a tone poet. He can coax a bevy of soundscapes with just his hands, from dirty Delta-blues, to stinging and firey rock, to pastoral folk, to sensual and lyrical slide playing, to sweet country filigree, and beyond.

Griff is a musician’s musician who as a sideman guitarist has performed, recorded and toured internationally with artists such as John Mayer, Billie Myers, Bryan Beller (Joe Satriani, The Aristocrats, Dethklok), Nina Storey, and the Mike Keneally Band (Frank Zappa, Andy Partridge, Steve Vai). Griff is the founder of Hilltop Frog Recording Studios, and the indie label Impropriety Records.

“Griff Peters plays gorgeous guitar” - Mike Keneally

Born into a musical family in Southern California, Griff started playing piano when he was very young. He quickly infuriated his piano teacher by neglecting beginner’s classical studies in favor of learning intricate ragtime and boogie-woogie songs by ear.

After discovering his grandfather’s old electric guitar at age 14, Griff discovered his passion and innate abilities to play Chicago electric blues and more modern blues rock. By his senior year in high school, he was sneaking out early to study music at the local college. Soon, Griff was a teen professional musician with a full schedule. He attended college classes in the morning; gave guitar lessons in the evening; and gigged in smoky bars late at night. Eventually, he graduated with honors from Berklee College of Music.

Griff would go on to have an impressive career in music, but the need to create his own solo album was always present. “I finally dispensed with all the excuses, purged my calendar and focused my mind towards creating a serious artistic statement. Immediately, musical ideas just flooded in,” Griff reveals. Canyons and Waves is the result of this all-consuming outpouring of songs. “The songwriting and recording stage was a prolific period of happy insanity. I wrote, recorded and produced all the music at my own facility, Hilltop Frog Studios in California. From the very beginning, I envisioned the Canyons and Waves album as a vinyl release. Vinyl enjoys undeniable appeal and clout, especially in modern times. The proven combination of both sonic excellence and time-tested longevity remains the artistic high-water mark of the recorded music medium. I’m very blessed to see my vision of this album fulfilled as a deluxe double-vinyl album with exceptional artwork and quality, like my favorite records from the past.”

Outside of music Griff enjoys exploring the deep spiritual aspects of nature, art, photography, and the Zen practice of rock balancing. Griff’s photography is intrinsically linked to the Canyons and Waves experience, with his 24-page liner notes of breathtaking images featured as a visual compendium to the music on the deluxe 45-RPM 180-gram double-vinyl available at griffpeters.com. “I wanted to compliment the auditory experience of the songs with striking visuals of peace, hope, and joy from different stages of my life,” Griff shares.

Griff will be promoting Canyons and Waves with shows and videos of the songs being performed live in the studio, onstage, and in breathtaking natural expanses. He will also be performing and releasing more new songs in the months ahead. Reflecting back on his epiphanic journey, Griff says: “Music says things that cannot be said otherwise. It reaches people’s hearts in places that cannot be reached by any other way. I’m using music this time around to transcend barriers and gently say ‘Hey - I’ve been there, too, but now I’ve found a better way.’”

Release date: February 10, 2023

To purchase: https://griffpeters.com/shop/

For more information:
Website: https://griffpeters.com
Facebook: @griffpeters https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=587117619
IG: https://www.instagram.com/griffpetersmusic/

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

DAN ASHLEY Releases New Cover Single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” Together with Original Co-Writer and Grammy Winner NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN

San Francisco, CA – Accomplished singer DAN ASHLEY brings a distinctive voice and his unique life experience to the Bay Area music scene with his exceptional blend of Americana and rock and roll. Following the release of his full-length album Out There in 2021, DAN ASHLEY is excited to present his new single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE,” a duet with the legendary Grammy-award winning NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN (Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Sting, George Michael) on October 21, 2022. Narada originally co-wrote the song with Jeffrey Cohen for Clarence Clemons and Jackson Browne, and both the song and music video featuring actress Daryl Hannah were a huge hit in 1985.

NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN recently brought the song to DAN ASHLEY thinking he would be a natural fit for an updated version of the material and recorded this new single with him at his own Tarpan Studios. As with the original version, Narada recorded drums and vocals for the track, and appears with Dan in the official music video. All proceeds from the single will be split between the NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN FOUNDATION and Dan Ashley’s own ROCK THE CASA FOUNDATION. “I’m very proud of my friendship and brotherhood with Dan 'Dash' Ashley!” says Narada. “I love Dan, he’s a great human being which inspired me to record this smash song as a new duet for the Narada Michael Walden Foundation and the Rock the CASA Foundation for kids!”

“YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” also features Jackson Allen (guitar), Angeline Saris (bass), Katie Walden and Nate Soulsanger (backing vocals), and Dave Ellis (saxophone). Videographer Tommy Merry shot an official music video on the same day they recorded the track at Tarpan Studios, which also features Katie Walden and her twin sister Kelly Walden along with Dan and Narada. “Narada is one of my dearest friends and an incredibly warm-hearted and talented artist and producer,” says Dan. “I’m deeply grateful for our friendship over the past many years and I’m honored to record this amazing song with him to benefit not only Rock the CASA, but the Narada Michael Walden Foundation.”

As a vocalist, DAN ASHLEY has led his highly acclaimed band for many years, headlining notable venues and opening for such great artists as REO Speedwagon, Rick Springfield, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Patti LaBelle, Melissa Etheridge and more. He has also shared the stage with many other consummate performers over the years including Dionne Warwick, Neal Schon (Journey), Brad Gillis (Night Ranger), and multiple Grammy winner Narada Michael Walden, among many others. Dan is regularly asked to perform the National Anthem at a variety of events, including for the NBA, MLB, NCAA, and NHL, and also recently performed alongside headliner Night Ranger in Reno, NV, and Foghat at the Ojai Nest Fest Veterans Benefit in Ventura, CA!

With the release of his remarkable album Out There in October 2021, DAN ASHLEY shared in the joy, heartbreak, love, and loss that are part of our common humanity. From upbeat and driving rockers to gentle ballads, all with a classic Americana and rock music sensibility, listeners will find a variety of songs on the album. Backed by a group of extraordinary musicians who have played and toured with an impressive list of major artists, Out There is the result of a powerful collaboration with his long-time friend, music producer, and writing partner Bill Bentley. Also contributing to the release were well respected musicians such as internationally acclaimed soul artist Cornell “CC” Carter and longtime Y&T drummer Mike Vanderhule.

DAN ASHLEY has been around music and passionate about it his entire life, starting as a child with guitar and piano lessons, and then singing in the junior choir at his church in North Carolina. Always the storyteller, Dan Ashley is also a journalist and news anchor for ABC7 – KGO Bay Area TV, and in his 35 years on television he has reported on a wide range of issues and events that affect our lives. Dan has covered stories all over the Bay Area, the country, and the world, and has received many industry awards including the prestigious DuPont Columbia Award, two Edward R. Murrow Awards for excellence in journalism, and numerous Emmy Awards for Best Newscast and Individual Reporting.

Dan Ashley also created the non-profit Rock the CASA Foundation to raise money through an annual concert to benefit the CASA organization and other charities, and over the years the event has featured several internationally known bands and artists. Listen for his single “Redbud Road” from Out There on Highway 1 Radio!

To order or stream the new single “YOU’RE A FRIEND OF MINE” please visit: https://lnk.to/DanAndNarada

For more information about DAN ASHLEY and his new single please visit: www.danashleymusic.com

To order or stream DAN ASHLEY music on Bandcamp please visit: https://danashley.bandcamp.com

For Press and Interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

Paul Adams, Noted Award Winning Composer of New Age Eclectic Music Morphs Into PD Adams With the Release of “This Curious Wonder”

A 12 Song Album of Americana/Folks Songs Painted With Lyrics and Poetry Centering on That Age Old Question of “Who Are We and What Am I Doing Here?”

For years Adams was a luthier building stringed instruments (An exotic 10 stringed Swedish Hummel for Daryl Hall is one example). But composing was his passion. In the 90’s inspired by college studies in Ethnomusicology, under his full name (Paul Adams) he released thirteen award winning genre blending instrumental albums with great success (Amassing over 118 million streams on Pandora). However, he held back his songwriter material. “Even though I had been writing poetry and lyric songs, fear of exposure stood in the way.”

The twelve songs within “This Curious Wonder” are stunning observances about this “place of amazing wonder” and were written over the course of the 35 years Adams also worked in mental health as well as lutherie and composing instrumental music who’s albums had a great impact in the new age genre. “I decided to release ‘This Curious Wonder’ under a slightly different name (PD Adams) to keep from confusing fans and those digital algorithms on streaming media platforms. I thought it might be too jarring for someone’s Paul Adams playlist on Spotify or Pandora all of a sudden presenting songwriter oriented tunes with lyrics like ‘monosodium glutamate’, ‘existential wonder’, and ‘lurking in the shadows’.

From an old curious mystic on the corner, the ironic source of a victim’s revenge, a simplistic voice pointing out truth from illusion, over existential analysis and the unconscious need to stumble the dusty cosmic road, “This Curious Wonder” is a vision of Adams curiosity in trying to define and explain this vast wonderment to himself - to find a way for all of this to make sense. “It’s all right here, from the heinous to the sublime. Like a carnival barker, I felt like I was screaming welcome to the great big circus of wonder!”

Playing most of the instruments (Guitar, dobro, harmonica, oud, dulcimer, mandolin, sitar), Adams approached the album - from writing, recording, production and artwork like a painter. “I would blend, tweak, step back and observe. I also had valuable feedback, vocal harmonies, flugelhorn and piano from Australian Elizabeth Geyer. I am in debt to my friend David Hoffman (13 years playing/arranging w/ Ray Charles) who added horn and encouragement. Then came national flatpicking champion Andy Hatfield on mandolin and UK steel guitar wizard Bradley Harper” (who I met on Instagram.). “Nature has a sharp and defining chisel. This album reflects the wonder of being shaped and molded by the unfolding mystery surrounding us.” The CD package includes all lyrics as well as bonus art, poetry and good dogs having an existential nature.

“This Curious Wonder” is to be released worldwide on all platforms 4/7/22

For more information:
PD Adams website: https://www.pauladams.org/pd-adams, www.pauladams.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PDAdamsMusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pd_adams/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PDAdams9

Videos:
“Sometimes I Feel” https://youtu.be/ZkW8zl9OLYw  
“Man On 4th and Vine” https://youtu.be/WqWOVAqmfbQ

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

Bay Area Rock Songstress KARNEY Offers Fresh Originals with New Versions of Old Favorites on Her Latest Release GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL

Featuring Bill Ortiz of Santana and Jim Bogios of the Counting Crows

San Francisco, CA – Throughout her storied music career, Anna Karney has performed across the country and released an incredible catalog of chart topping and critically acclaimed singles, EPs, and albums. Now with her San Francisco-based band KARNEY is set to release GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL on February 18, 2022, an exciting new collection of KARNEY originals along with some freshly conceived versions of old favorites.

GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL was recorded at East Bay Recorders in Oakland, CA, and produced by Anna Karney and Michael Rosen (Rancid, Tesla). Featured performers include Bill Ortiz (Santana, Tony Toni Tone) on trumpet; Jim Bogios (Counting Crows) on drums; James Deprato (Chuck Prophet Band) on guitar; Kevin White (Chuck Prophet Band) on bass; and longtime Karney band drummer Jeff Herrera. Offering a message of hope in uncertain times on the title track “Gonna Be Beautiful,” Anna Karney encourages her listeners to not get discouraged and to keep moving towards a kinder, inclusive, and happier world as she sings “Turn on the light / Keep the vision in plain sight / Bring it all into focus.” Also coming soon is an official music video for the track to be released later in 2022.

Keeping her mind on social justice and positive messages, Anna Karney’s lyrical content offers a sardonic and sometimes straightforward approach to many of the issues facing people today. Her musical influences include Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Patti Smith, John Lennon, Sheryl Crow, Chrissie Hynde, and Joni Mitchell. As an arranger, pianist, and guitarist, she has worked with artists such as George Clinton, Linda Perry, and Dennis Bovell.

Songs from the last KARNEY EP release Better received stellar airplay on Triple-A and Americana radio stations, including the title track and her powerful cover of “Ramble On,” one of Anna Karney’s favorite Led Zeppelin songs. She then released a series of singles throughout 2021, including her personal and heartfelt original track “Be Together,” and a cover of the Neil Young classic “Heart Of Gold.”

To create the “Be Together” single, KARNEY band musicians worked from individual studios to assemble their parts and build the track. Singer/guitarist Anna Karney, bassist Kevin White and guitarist James DePrato all recorded tracks at their own home studios. Drummer Jeff Herrera created rough drum parts in his rehearsal studio and sent them to trumpet player Bill Ortiz, who then recreated them digitally. All the tracks were then sent to producer/mixer Michael Rosen, who finished the mix at his East Bay Recorders studio. Ironically, even though the single is titled “Be Together,” the musicians never were.  

Previous KARNEY releases include her 2018 album No Mercy; a series of singles from 2016, Manifest Destiny, Vol. 1 EP and Restless Wind, Vol. 2 EP; the 2012 album Love & Respect; the 2003 album All Connected; and her debut release Karney from 1999. Anna Karney has worked with producers and artists in the SF Bay Area such as Producer/engineer Mark Pistel (Michael Franti, Grace Jones, Chuck Prophet), Producer/Engineer Michael Rosen (Rancid, Tesla, Smashmouth, Santana, and Papa Roach), and Adam Munoz (Herbie Hancock, Dave Mathews, Branford Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Chester Thompson, and Lyle Lovett).

Anna Karney has had a diverse musical career, having spent many years composing music for games such as Star Wars Galaxies, Monkey Island IV, Armed and Dangerous, several SimCity titles, Metal Dungeon, Death Jr., and many more. She received the esteemed “Dreamcatcher” Award from the Visual and Performing Arts division of the San Francisco Unified School District for her work as a choral teacher and conductor for middle and high school students, as well as her contribution to the furthering of music education in the San Francisco public school system. Additionally, Anna Karney has scored ballet and modern dance pieces as an artist in residence at Mills College and San Francisco State University. She also composed her Opus 1 Chaconne Sur Sept for nationally renowned contemporary music group Earplay Ensemble.  

The KARNEY band has enjoyed several open-air concerts during Covid, giving vulnerable and at-risk populations the opportunity to enjoy live performance in a safe and relaxed way. Stay tuned for more live performances in 2022!

Visit the KARNEY website for more information: www.karney.org or https://karney.bandcamp.com

To order or stream GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL on digital services please visit: https://smarturl.it/KarneyBeBeautiful

For Press and Interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR at (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective at jerome@independentdistro.com

For Radio inquiries please contact Peter Hay of Twin Vision Radio Promotion at TwinVision@aol.com

The Livesays, Featuring Clarence Clemons’ Guitarist/Vocalist Billy Livesay, To Release New Album “Not What I Bargained For”

Billy Livesay, best known for his work with E Street Band legend Clarence Clemons as his guitarist & vocalist, is releasing a new album with his group The Livesays. “Not What I Bargained For”, a memorable hybrid of melody, rhythm and message, is the band’s fifth album and is slated for release on September 1st, 2021.

In 2018, due to the sudden death of their drummer and beloved bandmate Eddie Zyne (formerly with Hall and Oates), The Livesays were forced to take a break from finishing their fourth CD. The search for a new drummer began in 2019 and ended with the addition of Howard Goldberg, and reconnecting with piano man, Timothy Murphy, who had taken a hiatus back in 2014. With a solid lineup in place, another unexpected turn of events occurred at the onset of 2020 … the Covid-19 pandemic, putting The Livesays and the masses out of work. Sequestered at his Ft. Lauderdale-area home, acclaimed singer-songwriter Billy Livesay, like most songwriters in the past year and 1/2, decided to write. And write. And write. Music became a lifeline. A whole new set of songs were created comprising two entirely new albums - 2020’s “The Rhythm Of Love and Dysfunction” (which they dedicated to Eddie), and now 2021’s very aptly titled “Not What I Bargained For.”

The subject matter of the new songs reflect the struggles and conquests of everyday life. The topics range from alcoholism, infidelity, overcoming poverty and bullying, to chasing dreams, growing older and dealing with the loss of a loved one. A few of the songs were inspired by political circumstance, conspiracy theorists, and how social media has been set afire with false information. And as the chaos of the last year begins to diminish, hope is on the horizon; there’s a new found optimism among the better angels of our nature. As with all of The Livesays’ previous albums, there’s always a song or two with which listeners feel a personal connection.

The Livesays have been dubbed “Heartland-Rock revivalists” offering up a blend of Americana and roots rock infused with pop, blues, funk and soul. They are long respected members of the South Florida music community, well known for their dynamic live performances. They have opened for dozens of international artists and have been featured at countless rock, blues and indie festivals. All five band members are excited to be back on stage performing live concerts again after a grueling 15 month hiatus due to Covid restrictions.

Billy Livesay has forged an impressive national publishing and licensing career. Over thirty of Billy’s original songs have been featured in network and cable television shows, made for TV movies, as well as in major motion pictures. Billy is an award winning songwriter and has been highly acclaimed for decades for his gift for melody and incredible knack for lyrical storytelling, often likened to Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. This latest batch of songs may be his best work yet.

The Takeaway:
Billy Livesay explains: “After Eddie’s death in 2018, the Covid-19 global pandemic reaffirmed that life can change in unpredicted ways in an instant. In March of 2020, we found ourselves unemployed, in exile and in turmoil... definitely ‘not what we bargained for’! It became abundantly clear that time is short and too valuable to waste. Amidst the chaos, despair, and in collective solitude, we turned to what we know best - music ... to heal our souls, conquer our fears, resurrect our dreams, and create something meaningful. I believe what we have produced is our most succinct and cohesive album to date. I hope our music brings joy to all who listen.”

There are 12 tracks on the new album - ten new original songs and two surprise classic covers. Everything was recorded in Billy Livesay’s home studio, produced by Billy, mixed by Grammy nominated engineer Steve Gordon, and mastered by Grammy winning engineer Mike Fuller at Fullersound in Ft Lauderdale.

Listen/Purchase the new CD (Pre-Sale 7/21/21; Official release date 9/01/21):
https://thelivesaysmusic.com/not-what-i-bargained-for
(The music will be available on all music platforms; additional links below)

Watch the Lyric Video of the Debut Single “Two Sides”: 

The Livesays’ lineup:
Billy Livesay - Guitar / lead vocals
Jorge Laplume - Bass / vocals  
Howard Goldberg - Drums  
Victor “Cuqui” Berrios - Organ / vocals  
Tim Murphy- Piano / vocals

Websites:
The Livesays www.thelivesaysmusic.com
Billy Livesay www.billylivesay.com

Social Media pages:
Facebook www.facebook.com/TheLivesays
YouTube www.youtube.com/user/TheLivesaysMusic
Instagram www.instagram.com/TheLivesays
Twitter www.twitter.com/TheLivesays
ReverbNation www.reverbnation.com/TheLivesays

Listen, purchase, leave a review, add to Playlists:
iTunes www.itunes.com/TheLivesays
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/411odDnocN1WzBbx1rwr8c

Previously released albums:
(1) “Rose Colored Glasses”: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/rose-colored-glasses
(2) “Faith, Hope & Love”: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/faith-hope-and-love
(3) “Hold On... Life is Calling”: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/hold-on-life-is-calling
(4) “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction”: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/the-rhythm-of-love-and-dysfunction

To download song lyrics: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1uMG6ifmu-899OwuJbC8DckSA4nBX2nnA?usp=sharing

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

More info, Bookings, Interviews: Main Event Talent Agency, Judy Blem, Agent, PH: 954-648-4355, TheLivesaysMusic@gmail.com

Americana Rock Legend Walter Egan Releases New Album “Fascination” Inspired By Shared History with Legendary Super-Groupie Pamela Des Barres

Featuring the Single “Miss Pamela”!

West Coast, Country and Americana Rock music crossover legend Walter Egan has released his new album “Fascination” which features thirteen West Coast Rock/Americana influenced tracks all inspired by Walter Egan’s shared history with legendary Super-Groupie Pamela Des Barres. The first single from the album “Miss Pamela” was released in February.

Watch the video for “Miss Pamela” here: 

Watch the video for “I’m With The Girl” here: 

With a mostly undocumented illustrious back story in the music business, Walter Egan wrote “Hearts On Fire” for Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris and achieved chart success with his solo albums “Fundamental Roll” and “Not Shy” which were both produced by his good friend Lindsay Buckingham and with Stevie Nicks singing, particularly on his hit single “Magnet And Steel”.

Walter had further hit singles with “Full Moon Fire”, “Only The Lucky” and “Hot Summer Nights” which Eminem sampled on his “We Made You” release.

Given his impeccable musical pedigree, Walter naturally fell in with the LA Country-Rock scene playing with Don Henley, Glen Frey, Linda Ronstadt, Chris Darrow, David Lindley, Jules Shear, and Jackson Browne and within two years, through a hot night at the Troubadour, he secured a record deal from United Artists records in England. This soon manifested into a six-album deal with Columbia Records US & Worldwide.

Egan and his band have toured extensively sharing the bill with many legendary bands including AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, Procol Harum, The Beach Boys, Foreigner, Heart, Kansas, Dave Mason, and Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers.

Walter has played and recorded with Sageworth, Jackson Browne, Kelsea Ballerini, Randy California’s Spirit, Wanda Jackson, Chris Darrow, The Flying Burrito Brothers and The Malibooz.

To purchase Walter Egan’s “Fascination”: https://music.apple.com/gb/album/fascination/1548451431

WALTER EGAN BACK CATALOGUE RELEASES - All available NOW

The first two expanded back catalogue redux album releases, including unreleased material, are: “Mad Dog,” and “The Meaning Of Live.”

“Mad Dog (Redux Remaster)” - The lost album from 1985/6 with Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, Randy California, Jackson Browne, and Chris Darrow. It includes the Stevie Nicks penned “Sisters of the Moon.” It was originally released on CD in 2002. This version is remastered with 4 previously unreleased bonus tracks.
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/mad-dog-redux-remaster/1547600728

“The Meaning of Live (Redux Remaster)” - Recorded 1978 on the “Not Shy” Tour at the El Mocambo in Toronto - full concert - 80 mins. Originally released on CD 2004.
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/meaning-of-live-redux-remaster/1519835020

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

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

Americana Rock Legend Walter Egan Releases New Album “Fascination” Inspired By Shared History with Legendary Super-Groupie Pamela Des Barres

Featuring the Single “Miss Pamela”!

West Coast, Country and Americana Rock music crossover legend Walter Egan has released his new album “Fascination” which features thirteen West Coast Rock/Americana influenced tracks all inspired by Walter Egan’s shared history with legendary Super-Groupie Pamela Des Barres. The first single from the album “Miss Pamela” was released in February.

Watch the video for “Miss Pamela” here: 

Watch the video for “I’m With The Girl” here: 

With a mostly undocumented illustrious back story in the music business, Walter Egan wrote “Hearts On Fire” for Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris and achieved chart success with his solo albums “Fundamental Roll” and “Not Shy” which were both produced by his good friend Lindsay Buckingham and with Stevie Nicks singing, particularly on his hit single “Magnet And Steel”.

Walter had further hit singles with “Full Moon Fire”, “Only The Lucky” and “Hot Summer Nights” which Eminem sampled on his “We Made You” release.

Given his impeccable musical pedigree, Walter naturally fell in with the LA Country-Rock scene playing with Don Henley, Glen Frey, Linda Ronstadt, Chris Darrow, David Lindley, Jules Shear, and Jackson Browne and within two years, through a hot night at the Troubadour, he secured a record deal from United Artists records in England. This soon manifested into a six-album deal with Columbia Records US & Worldwide.

Egan and his band have toured extensively sharing the bill with many legendary bands including AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, Procol Harum, The Beach Boys, Foreigner, Heart, Kansas, Dave Mason, and Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers.

Walter has played and recorded with Sageworth, Jackson Browne, Kelsea Ballerini, Randy California’s Spirit, Wanda Jackson, Chris Darrow, The Flying Burrito Brothers and The Malibooz.

To purchase Walter Egan’s “Fascination”: https://music.apple.com/gb/album/fascination/1548451431

WALTER EGAN BACK CATALOGUE RELEASES - All available NOW

The first two expanded back catalogue redux album releases, including unreleased material, are: “Mad Dog,” and “The Meaning Of Live.”

“Mad Dog (Redux Remaster)” - The lost album from 1985/6 with Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, Randy California, Jackson Browne, and Chris Darrow. It includes the Stevie Nicks penned “Sisters of the Moon.” It was originally released on CD in 2002. This version is remastered with 4 previously unreleased bonus tracks.
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/mad-dog-redux-remaster/1547600728

“The Meaning of Live (Redux Remaster)” - Recorded 1978 on the “Not Shy” Tour at the El Mocambo in Toronto - full concert - 80 mins. Originally released on CD 2004.
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/meaning-of-live-redux-remaster/1519835020

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

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

PeacockSunrise Records Announces the Fall Release of 'Delta Tales', an Album by Sun King Rising

Sun King Rising's debut album, Delta Tales, will be released this Fall on CD, vinyl, and leading download and streaming sites. Sun King Rising is the professional moniker of singer/songwriter/piano player John Blangero who hails from Port Isabel, Texas. PeacockSunrise Records is the Americana/Rock label spinoff of Nick Katona’s successful Progressive Rock label, Melodic Revolution. The album is produced by New York-based producer, Steven “Ace” Acker.

“Blangero is steeped in the traditions of southern rock and country soul,” said Katona. “His primary influences on this record are the arrangements, vocal stylings, and big band vibe of Leon Russell and Joe Cocker. We are excited to have him as an artist.”

Blangero’s songs are filled with memorable hooks, rocking piano, driving rhythms, a powerful horn section, and soulful female background singers a la’ Ray Charles’ Raelettes.

“I’ve been wanting to do a solo Americana/southern soul/classic rock type of album for many years,” Blangero said. “I love the music of Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, Dan Penn, and others and I wanted to capture some of that vibe in my own writing. So, I started writing and recording solo demos of songs like Let There Be Light, Down the Delta Road, Drive Me to Nashville, In A State of Grace, and Love Turns Grey.

“After hearing these demos on my ReverbNation channel, Nick contacted me,” Blangero recalled. “He told me ‘OMG, you have got to release these songs on my label.

“Melodic Revolution is a successful Prog Rock label, but to accommodate my style of music he launched a new imprint, which he called PeacockSunrise. I felt that Nick had the experience and knowledge to take Delta Tales to market successfully, so I signed with the label.”

Acker was the co-founder and guitarist of 1970’s MCA recording artists, LAW. He has since served as producer for various artists and projects in New York, Pittsburgh, Ohio, Nashville, and Jackson, MS and has been affiliated with SST Studios in Weehawken, NJ since 2007. “I’ve been a fan of Ace’s work since his early days with LAW,” Blangero said. “I felt he was a perfect choice for this project.”

The recording of Delta Tales was a fascinating task, spanning four months, from January 2020 to mid-May. The Coronavirus shutdown in April forced Blangero and Acker to complete the production remotely with players and singers recording in several different studios across the country rather than recording additional live, full-band studio sessions.

Said Blangero, “It was a logistical challenge, but Ace did a great job organizing the players and the sessions. I am proud of this record. We captured the magic that I’ve always heard in my head with great background singers, classic horn parts, tight rhythm sections, killer guitar, funky keys, and my own acoustic piano parts. It sounds like it could have been recorded in the early 70s, which is the vibe I was going for.”

In addition to his work as recording artist, Blangero is also an internationally renowned genetic scientist at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine, for whom he continued to work while recording Delta Tales. You might aptly call his music, then, “The Genetics of Soul.”

Watch Sun King Rising's new video for “The Snake”:

Blangero’s prodigious gifts revealed themselves when he started taking piano lessons at the age five in his hometown of New Castle, Pennsylvania. Five years later, he had absorbed not only the fundamentals of classical music, but also gospel and rock music. He joined his first rock band at 14 and was soon composing and singing his own music.

Apprenticeships in a series of area bands culminated in the formation of his own original band, called Harlequin. By then his music had evolved into a combination of prog rock and glam, presented with all the theatrics such music generally entails. Harlequin retained regional popularity throughout the fertile Pennsylvania/Ohio/West Virginia market.

At the height of the band’s popularity, though, he gave up music to obtain his Ph.D. in biomedical research. During his twenty-year hiatus from music, he ascended to rock star stature in the international scientific community. But the musical beast within him could not be stilled forever. Playing casually with blues bands in San Antonio revived that beast and rekindled Blangero’s creative spark.

In closing, Blangero said, “I tried to capture my southern soul on this album. I hope that the overall message it conveys is one of positivity, especially in these dark times.  I think we have put together strong songs that will make people tap their feet and sing along, too! For me, the song is everything.”



To pre-order Sun King Rising's Delta Tales: https://sunkingrising.bandcamp.com

For more information:
Website: www.sunkingrising.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SunKingRising/

PeacockSunrise Records 
Website: https://peacocksunriserecords.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PeacockSunriseRecords/

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

PeacockSunrise Records Announces the Fall Release of 'Delta Tales', an Album by Sun King Rising

Sun King Rising's debut album, Delta Tales, will be released this Fall on CD, vinyl, and leading download and streaming sites. Sun King Rising is the professional moniker of singer/songwriter/piano player John Blangero who hails from Port Isabel, Texas. PeacockSunrise Records is the Americana/Rock label spinoff of Nick Katona’s successful Progressive Rock label, Melodic Revolution. The album is produced by New York-based producer, Steven “Ace” Acker.

“Blangero is steeped in the traditions of southern rock and country soul,” said Katona. “His primary influences on this record are the arrangements, vocal stylings, and big band vibe of Leon Russell and Joe Cocker. We are excited to have him as an artist.”

Blangero’s songs are filled with memorable hooks, rocking piano, driving rhythms, a powerful horn section, and soulful female background singers a la’ Ray Charles’ Raelettes.

“I’ve been wanting to do a solo Americana/southern soul/classic rock type of album for many years,” Blangero said. “I love the music of Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, Dan Penn, and others and I wanted to capture some of that vibe in my own writing. So, I started writing and recording solo demos of songs like Let There Be Light, Down the Delta Road, Drive Me to Nashville, In A State of Grace, and Love Turns Grey.

“After hearing these demos on my ReverbNation channel, Nick contacted me,” Blangero recalled. “He told me ‘OMG, you have got to release these songs on my label.

“Melodic Revolution is a successful Prog Rock label, but to accommodate my style of music he launched a new imprint, which he called PeacockSunrise. I felt that Nick had the experience and knowledge to take Delta Tales to market successfully, so I signed with the label.”

Acker was the co-founder and guitarist of 1970’s MCA recording artists, LAW. He has since served as producer for various artists and projects in New York, Pittsburgh, Ohio, Nashville, and Jackson, MS and has been affiliated with SST Studios in Weehawken, NJ since 2007. “I’ve been a fan of Ace’s work since his early days with LAW,” Blangero said. “I felt he was a perfect choice for this project.”

The recording of Delta Tales was a fascinating task, spanning four months, from January 2020 to mid-May. The Coronavirus shutdown in April forced Blangero and Acker to complete the production remotely with players and singers recording in several different studios across the country rather than recording additional live, full-band studio sessions.

Said Blangero, “It was a logistical challenge, but Ace did a great job organizing the players and the sessions. I am proud of this record. We captured the magic that I’ve always heard in my head with great background singers, classic horn parts, tight rhythm sections, killer guitar, funky keys, and my own acoustic piano parts. It sounds like it could have been recorded in the early 70s, which is the vibe I was going for.”

In addition to his work as recording artist, Blangero is also an internationally renowned genetic scientist at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine, for whom he continued to work while recording Delta Tales. You might aptly call his music, then, “The Genetics of Soul.”

Watch Sun King Rising's new video for “The Snake”:

Blangero’s prodigious gifts revealed themselves when he started taking piano lessons at the age five in his hometown of New Castle, Pennsylvania. Five years later, he had absorbed not only the fundamentals of classical music, but also gospel and rock music. He joined his first rock band at 14 and was soon composing and singing his own music.

Apprenticeships in a series of area bands culminated in the formation of his own original band, called Harlequin. By then his music had evolved into a combination of prog rock and glam, presented with all the theatrics such music generally entails. Harlequin retained regional popularity throughout the fertile Pennsylvania/Ohio/West Virginia market.

At the height of the band’s popularity, though, he gave up music to obtain his Ph.D. in biomedical research. During his twenty-year hiatus from music, he ascended to rock star stature in the international scientific community. But the musical beast within him could not be stilled forever. Playing casually with blues bands in San Antonio revived that beast and rekindled Blangero’s creative spark.

In closing, Blangero said, “I tried to capture my southern soul on this album. I hope that the overall message it conveys is one of positivity, especially in these dark times.  I think we have put together strong songs that will make people tap their feet and sing along, too! For me, the song is everything.”



To pre-order Sun King Rising's Delta Tales: https://sunkingrising.bandcamp.com

For more information:
Website: www.sunkingrising.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SunKingRising/

PeacockSunrise Records 
Website: https://peacocksunriserecords.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PeacockSunriseRecords/

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

Rock-Americana-Progressive Review: Euphoria-The Reverie Suite

Release Date: September 17, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

Euphoria’s second release titled The Reverie Suite was released in September 2019. This is the kind of music that can be hard to put into a corner and stick a label on. For my ears, that is a fine start knowing that I was in for a lot of diversity and surprises.

I would call it Rock-Americana with a Progressive twist, just as the band describes it. What is initially indicative of the progressive leanings is the length of the tracks.

The band explains the album like this: It is a concept album based on the life of vocalist Saskia who delivers her story with an earnest passion that’s hauntingly beautiful. Its theme is centered around childhood and musically presented with a sound that evokes America in all its beauty – whether it be folk, rock, jazz, or Native purple mountains majesty with progressive tinges.

I think that statement puts it all into a proper perspective for potential listeners. It serves as a looking glass into what you can expect. It is everything and more than one would expect actually. Saskia has a rich powerful voice that pulls you right into the story and holds you. The music is all very tasteful and well suited to the lyrics and vocal style of Saskia. Every track is a musical carpet ride that will capture your imagination. In a word, it is all quite cinematic. Choosing the recording to be a concept album worked well.

Hoyt Binder’s guitar is fantastic. He can be powerful with some meaty chords or tone it down to sound quieter and more textured. He also utilizes a banjo and mandolin to get that Americana element in place sandwiched in between his power strokes. I most certainly appreciate all of his work with the stringed instruments. His multitude of talent leads the way, inviting Saskia’s inviting vocals to come out and play with the music making it a complete experience for a listener. Her vocals were giving me goosebumps.

The Reverie Suite is engaging, precise, diversified, exciting, and filled with the many colors of the world and cultures. I sincerely appreciate that kind of take on a recording, it is always impressive and something you cannot forget. The musicianship is stellar. Ronald Van Deurzen adds the quintessential keyboard element while The Americana Daydream Revival Orchestra delivers background harmonies, flute, percussion, harmonica, bass, and strings, which in turn gives their sound a layered effect that makes each track a real musical journey. (I have included a list of all contributors below)

Their magnum opus is ”Paradise Road,” which clocks in at a hefty 9:42. With this one track, you get the whole package and stylings that this band commands in one track. It is quite impressive to sit back and hear everything going on. I loved every minute of it. The long instrumental breaks are a testament to this band’s all-around talent. This is the one track I would call definitively progressive. The way it ends so suddenly with Saskia singing “And paradise is her name,” puts the final touch on the elements of prog as the door shuts and you get ready for the next track (or another one opens).

Then you get the full instrumental track “Remind Me.” It is a delight, bringing a distinct Americana/Celtic flair to your senses, transporting the listener to a world stage. Getting the full instrumental treatment of their sounds encourages you to paint your personal picture on the canvas of their music.

The Reverie Suite may take a few listens to get it all into perspective, but I believe that any listener that has an appreciation for rock, prog, Americana, folk, or any combination thereof, will find great value in this album.

LINE-UP:
Saskia Binder - Vocals
Hoyt Binder - Guitars, banjo, mandolin, background harmonies
Ronald Van Deurzen - Piano, organ
Trevor Lloyd - Strings
Tollak Ollestad - Harmonica
Rebecca Kleinmann - Flute
Paulo Gustavo - Bass
Chris Quirarte - Drums
Mike Disarro - Background harmonies
Bobby Albright – Percussion

Mixed by Smiley Sean
Mastered by Howie Weinberg at Howie Weinberg Mastering

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 28, 2020

Founder of:

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Track List: 
01. Prelude/ She's Calling 04:54
02. Reverie 07:12
03. On My Way 07:31  
04. Heartbeat 04:53
05. Bridge of Dreams 04:38
06. Queen of Hearts 04:47
07. Paradise Road 09:42
08. Move On 05:21
09. Seasons 07:00  
10. Reprise 03:24
11. Remind Me 05:44
12. Content 05:57