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

12/05/2022

Colosseum 2, Lucifer’s Friend and Lake Former Lead Singer Mike Starrs’ Long Lost 1973 Solo Album, 'Electric Garden', Re-Released for the First Time – OUT NOW!

Mike Starrs is the former lead singer of jazz rock fusionists Colosseum II, Lucifer’s Friend and the German band Lake. This is the first ever re-release of his only solo album, Electric Garden, with four bonus tracks added.

When it was first released in 1973, Electric Garden was only available in six European countries and the non-album singles, now included as bonus tracks, were only available in three European countries. This re-release is a ‘catch-all’ of his 1970s solo releases.

The album has been re-mastered by band member Gerry Morris and approved by Mike Starrs and original producer Tony Atkins. The booklet includes two sets of liner notes; the original 1973 notes and retrospective notes newly written by Mike Starrs.

All the tracks feature Geoff Whitehorn of Procol Harum on guitar and all but one track includes John Richardson of The Rubettes on drums.

Mike Starrs said of the re-release: “A young man who had his whole life / career in front of him. I remember hearing my first single Love Song on Juke Box Jury and they all voted it a hit. Who could ever have imagined that I would be sitting here talking about and reminiscing about my very first album Electric Garden…?”

Available now:
Amazon CD: https://geni.us/ExM028cd
Spotify: https://geni.us/ExM028am
Apple Music: https://geni.us/ExM028sp

Electric Garden is also available directly from Cherry Red: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/mike-starrs-electric-garden-expanded-edition/

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

3/10/2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2/25/2021

CIRCUS MIND Showcase Their ’70s Rock, Funk, and Jazz Grooves on the New Single “ARE YOU READY?” From Their Upcoming Album JOY MACHINE

New York, NYCIRCUS MIND is a New York-based rock outfit and the brainchild of ringleader Mark Rechler. The band is entering their twentieth year and are soon to release their third album JOY MACHINE, a delightful mashup of the retro sounds of ’70s rock and funk with N’awlins swamp rock mixed with late-Beatles pop. The first JOY MACHINE single “ARE YOU READY?” features guest guitar phenom Brandon “Taz” Niederauer and will release online February 26 ahead of an official video release and Fat Friday Virtual Event on March 5, 2021. “ARE YOU READY?” is a funky rock throwback that has roots in P-Funk, Sly Stone, and other ’70s rock and soul vibes, all flavors that CIRCUS MIND wears on its sleeve as a badge of honor, from the writing to the production. The JOY MACHINE album will release on May 21, 2021, and also features Walter Wolfman Washington, Scott Metzger, Ivan Neville, Big Sam, Marc Ribot, and more special guests.

CIRCUS MIND has many faces, and the band is able to daringly swing from jazzy grooves to reggae roots then shoot out of a canon into rock without missing a beat. Their last release “Silver Flower” was voted Best Indie Album of 2006 by Newsday and put a modern take on influences such as Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople while mixing in NoLa vibe influences like Dr. John, The Meters and The Neville Brothers. The last CIRCUS MIND single “Jazzfest Time” was released one year ago as an ode to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. CIRCUS MIND is quite versatile and has opened for national acts (Toots & The Maytals, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators) and had many notable guests sit in on their recordings and live performances (Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band, Cyril Neville).

CIRCUS MIND’s members are diverse in their influences as well as their playing. Lead vocalist, songwriter, keyboardist, and bandleader Mark Rechler plays in multiple bands (such as Falling Water), and has played, toured, and recorded with members of The Meters, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators, Soulive, The Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Ivan Neville, and more. Spending five years in New Orleans studying music and architecture helped influence his style and direction, and he always keeps his focus on the hook to keep his listeners salivating and wanting more.

Bassist Chris Crosby has a serious case of spider-fingers and can solo as beautifully as any guitarist. A funkster from a family of highly respected musicians, Chris has also studied with Oteil Burbridge of The Allman Brothers Band and The Dead. Currently, he has also been busy playing in his brother’s Jason Crosby Band and New York rock quartet Feverseed. Guitarist David Berg is rooted in jazz, reggae, and bluegrass. He has toured with Dark Star Orchestra and has played multiple shows with Garth Hudson (The Band). Dave’s fluid rock style keeps CIRCUS MIND in a constant snake-like flow.

Drummer Dan Roth has been banging on things since he was a tyke, and he can’t seem to stop. He’s addicted to crosswords, motor coordination, and avocados. With over 30 album credits to his name, percussionist Steve Finkelstein has worked with pop icons from Ray Charles and Mariah Carey as well as jam band giants including members of the Dead, Allman’s, and Neville’s, and Tower of Power. Steve is also an original member and current member of the Funk Filharmonik.

The CIRCUS MIND single “ARE YOU READY?” will release online February 26, ahead of an official video release and Fat Friday Virtual Event on March 5, and the JOY MACHINE album release on May 21, 2021.

To purchase or stream the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: https://smarturl.it/CMAreYouReady

For more information including tour dates or booking inquiries please visit: https://www.facebook.com/CircusMindMusic/

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

4/09/2020

Jazz Rock Supergroup MANDOKI SOULMATES Say "THANK YOU" To The COVID-19 Helpers With Their New Single!


Los Angeles, CA - As the world continues to be consumed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mandoki Soulmates mastermind and leader Leslie Mandoki has found inspiration and a new spark of hope amidst the chaos. He has penned a powerful new song in appreciation for the heroes who have emerged in this global crisis, the nurses, doctors, and other health care providers as well as the grocery store clerks and food delivery personnel who have stepped up to serve their communities. The new song, entitled simply “Thank You,” expresses so clearly the feelings of gratitude many of us have felt in these troubled times. Mandoki explains, “As an artist, I feel it is my duty to contemplate ideas for a better world. Now, like so many of us, I suddenly have the time. Let us grab this uncommon moment of pause together and take a new approach to the problems of the world. And let’s take a hard look at who this crisis is casting in a heroic light, and who comes out the villain.”

The song is being released through the Purple Pyramid imprint of indie giant Cleopatra Records, Inc. and is Mandoki Soulmate’s first release in the recently inked partnership with the L.A.-based label. Additional releases are set to follow later this year.

Stream the song here: https://orcd.co/mandoki-soulmates-thank-you

Read the complete essay written by Leslie Mandoki to complement the single: http://cleorecs.com/home/mandoki-soulmates-thank-you/

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


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com


Follow PURPLE PYRAMID  @ 
Facebook  |  Instagram  | Twitter | Youtube | Purple Pyramid Store
Facebook @PurplePyramidRecords
https://www.facebook.com/PurplePyramidRecords/
Instagram @Purple.pyramid
https://www.instagram.com/purple.pyramid/
Twitter @PurplePyramid1
https://twitter.com/PurplePyramid1
Youtube @ Purple Pyramid
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwiCec6bS6mX3c7dpitfYRQ
Purple Pyramid Store @
https://cleorecs.com/store/product-category/record-label/purple-pyramid/

Jazz Rock Supergroup MANDOKI SOULMATES Say "THANK YOU" To The COVID-19 Helpers With Their New Single!


Los Angeles, CA - As the world continues to be consumed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mandoki Soulmates mastermind and leader Leslie Mandoki has found inspiration and a new spark of hope amidst the chaos. He has penned a powerful new song in appreciation for the heroes who have emerged in this global crisis, the nurses, doctors, and other health care providers as well as the grocery store clerks and food delivery personnel who have stepped up to serve their communities. The new song, entitled simply “Thank You,” expresses so clearly the feelings of gratitude many of us have felt in these troubled times. Mandoki explains, “As an artist, I feel it is my duty to contemplate ideas for a better world. Now, like so many of us, I suddenly have the time. Let us grab this uncommon moment of pause together and take a new approach to the problems of the world. And let’s take a hard look at who this crisis is casting in a heroic light, and who comes out the villain.”

The song is being released through the Purple Pyramid imprint of indie giant Cleopatra Records, Inc. and is Mandoki Soulmate’s first release in the recently inked partnership with the L.A.-based label. Additional releases are set to follow later this year.

Stream the song here: https://orcd.co/mandoki-soulmates-thank-you

Read the complete essay written by Leslie Mandoki to complement the single: http://cleorecs.com/home/mandoki-soulmates-thank-you/

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


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com


Follow PURPLE PYRAMID  @ 
Facebook  |  Instagram  | Twitter | Youtube | Purple Pyramid Store
Facebook @PurplePyramidRecords
https://www.facebook.com/PurplePyramidRecords/
Instagram @Purple.pyramid
https://www.instagram.com/purple.pyramid/
Twitter @PurplePyramid1
https://twitter.com/PurplePyramid1
Youtube @ Purple Pyramid
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwiCec6bS6mX3c7dpitfYRQ
Purple Pyramid Store @
https://cleorecs.com/store/product-category/record-label/purple-pyramid/

4/14/2018

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


Features drummer Carmine Appice & bassist Tony Franklin!

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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



CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords/
Instagram @cleopatrarecords
https://www.instagram.com/cleopatrarecords/
Twitter @cleopatrarecord
https://twitter.com/cleopatrarecord
Youtube @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCopQ0616Fpfrq8Gt0N-0zOQ
Soundcloud @cleopatra-recs
https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs
Dailymotion @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
Vimeo @cleopatrarecords
https://vimeo.com/cleopatrarecords
Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
https://open.spotify.com/user/cleopatra_recs
Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

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


Features drummer Carmine Appice & bassist Tony Franklin!

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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



CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords/
Instagram @cleopatrarecords
https://www.instagram.com/cleopatrarecords/
Twitter @cleopatrarecord
https://twitter.com/cleopatrarecord
Youtube @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCopQ0616Fpfrq8Gt0N-0zOQ
Soundcloud @cleopatra-recs
https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs
Dailymotion @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
Vimeo @cleopatrarecords
https://vimeo.com/cleopatrarecords
Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
https://open.spotify.com/user/cleopatra_recs
Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

12/19/2017

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


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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9/16/2017

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6/19/2017

Experimental Guitarist Rex Shepherd To Release New Album "Never Buy My Self Volume III"


Guitarist and composer Rex Shepherd will be releasing the third installment of the “Never Buy My Self” series digitally on June 29th. The first two volumes, released in 2014, featured Shepherd playing solo and in various duets, and volume three continues the series with a new set of all solo music consisting of both improvised and composed pieces. The new release features four new compositions and ten more improvised tunes that demonstrate Shepherd's musical range from thoughtfully written jazz ballads to fuzzed out guitar mayhem including one piece in which Shepherd again uses the Theremin for self accompaniment.

Says Rex, “I released a solo set in 2016 called 'Meditations,' and doing a new solo thing runs the risk of repetition but 'Meditations' was done in just a few sessions and was textural and harmonically focused and the new stuff returns to my tendency to play and write in a linear melodic way and the music on 'Never Buy My Self, Volume III' reflects that way of thinking, and it's also different in that it was recorded over a span of about two years and, like volume I, it includes one particular composition that is very personal and is only for me to play. I have aspirations for new projects with larger ensembles and to return to the No End of Now jazz rock thing too so this will probably be the last solo thing I do for a good while, and given the current socio-emotional environment these days I don't want to come off as a narcissistic anti-social type. So I hope people enjoy and connect with this music and, as always, much peace, happiness, and music to all people, everywhere.”

Guitarist Rex Shepherd also recently released three albums digitally: “Ohio”, “Sonority” and “Duets”. Combining elements of jazz improvisation and harmony with an approach to guitar playing heavily influenced by diverse players such as Jim Hall, Robin Trower, Fred Frith, and sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, Rex Shepherd has forged a niche for himself with original music that typically lies somewhere just outside the usual genre labels but is still music that is approachable.

Says Rex, “This new music was recorded in my personal studio, much of it with other musicians in duets, and at various times throughout the last few years. The past several years have delivered to me a greater understanding of the fleeting nature of this lifetime, so I decided to release much of what I had accumulated, in part to satisfy my own need to communicate musically with the world outside of my little sphere of existence, but also I wanted to honor the musicians who played this music with me. It is these musical and personal relationships that are at the heart of creating music, whether composed or improvised, and for the people who listen to it I hope it also creates a connection between us. Much peace and music to all people, everywhere.”

Having been described as “Robin Trower meets Miles Davis”, Shepherd's music spans from full on instrumental jazz rock tunes to traditional jazz compositions with a good dose of free improvisation and sound experimentation using “prepared” and effected guitar sounds and instruments such as the “oceanharp” and the Theremin.

Shepherd's band, sometimes going under the name No End of Now, employs a revolving cast of the most creative players he can find who are willing to take part in a project that is often arranged while playing and with no limitations on the players' expression of the music. The compositions are also a blend of influences, from Wayne Shorter to John Cage, and most often are directly inspired by people, literature and other art forms, and experiences that hold significant meaning in Shepherd's life.

Previously released albums:

“Ohio”: With the exception of “Desire”, a ballad Rex wrote several years ago, the music on this recording is all improvised. The songs consist of duet recordings captured in his studio after he had returned home to Ohio for a short time. https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/ohio

“Sonority”: This recent recording features a set of improvised tunes that were arrived at after John and Rex conducted their usual pre-roll discussions about the state of current affairs in the U.S. https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/sonority

“Duets”: Except for the improvisations “Etude #2” and “April 9th”, this release features compositions by Rex that have existed anywhere from 15 years, in the case of “In the Shade”, to just two days before being recorded like “Happy Little Trees”. https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/duets

To purchase Rex Shepherd's “Never Buy My Self Volume III”: https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/never-buy-my-self-vol-iii

For more information:
Website: https://rexshep.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicpagerexshepherd/

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

2/07/2017

Gong Expresso Feat. Gong Alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe To Release New Album “Decadence”


Montreal - Hansford Rowe's HRIII merges with Gong Expresso! Gong alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe join HRIII guitarist Julien Sandiford for the recording of the new album by Gong Expresso titled “Decadence.”

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

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


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

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

For more information: www.pledgemusic.com/projects/hr3
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GongExpresso/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDb7pRK9A-fBjZTbp3vbd_w

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

Gong Expresso Feat. Gong Alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe To Release New Album “Decadence”


Montreal - Hansford Rowe's HRIII merges with Gong Expresso! Gong alumni Francois Causse, Benoit Moerlen and Hansford Rowe join HRIII guitarist Julien Sandiford for the recording of the new album by Gong Expresso titled “Decadence.”

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

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


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

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

For more information: www.pledgemusic.com/projects/hr3
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GongExpresso/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDb7pRK9A-fBjZTbp3vbd_w

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

5/23/2016

MJ12 Featuring Bass Legend Percy Jones To Release Debut Album!


London, UK - MJ12, featuring Brand X bass legend Percy Jones, will be releasing their eagerly awaited debut album on Gonzo Multimedia UK on June 24, 2016. Recorded in the summer of 2015 at Shelter Island studios in Manhattan, MJ12 is jazz/fusion/prog music at its finest. Featuring virtuosic performances by all four band members, in many ways this album is an extension of what Percy Jones created with Brand X!

Says Percy, “We took the name from Majestik 12, which was supposedly a group of 12 scientists and engineers assembled in the late 40's to investigate UFO's. There is an ongoing debate as to whether this group actually existed or not. Stephen Moses and I had been doing  gigs for a while where we would invite  guests to sit in. We did all improv, so this was actually M&J +1 or 2.  After a while we started using David Phelps and Chris Bacas on a regular basis if they were available. At this point we started writing stuff, but keeping a lot of the improv thing going to keep it spontaneous. The end result was bits and pieces of ideas coming from everybody that were all tied together to try and make a coherent tune, but with lots of blowing inside. By last Summer we felt like it had shaped up well enough to record it, so we went in and recorded it over 2 days.”

Track listing:

1) Call 911
2) Bad American Dream Pt2
3) Magic Mist
4) Talk Time
5) The Wow Signal
6) Big Daddy Road
7) The Phantom Maracas
8) Guns And Pussy
9) Magic Mist Reprise

MJ12 is:

Percy Jones
Percy Jones grew up near Llandrindod Wells, Wales. He studied electronic engineering at the University of Liverpool before joining Liverpool Scene in 1967 He was a member of jazz fusion band Brand X from 1974 to 1980, and a reformed version which lasted from 1992 to 1997. He was in NYC based band Tunnels from 1990 until 2005. Still residing in New York, he is currently a member of MJ12. Jones is best known for his unique fretless bass sound. Jones was also briefly a member of the jazz fusion group Soft Machine, and has contributed to recordings by David Sylvian, Brian Eno, Steve Hackett, Roy Harper, Paranoise, Suzanne Vega, Richard Barbieri, Nova and Fovea Hex, amongst others.

Stephen Moses
After several years playing as part of “the loft jazz scene” in NYC with the likes of James Chance, John Zorn, Phillip Johnston, Ken Simon, Dave Hofstra (and many others) drummer/trombonist Stephen Moses started getting busier with more rock and jazz/rock in the CBGB's scene with Giant Metal Insects and Quality Trio with Jim Matus & Percy Jones. Alice Donut formed after that and took Stephen on the road and the studio for several years and a dozen albums followed by a few tours with Rasputina. Then a few years ago Stephen rejoined Percy to do what we do today.

Dave Phelps
Guitarist David Phelps is currently a member of Peter Apfelbaum's 11-piece band The New York Hieroglyphics, which includes many of today's best creative musicians, including drummer Dafnis Prieto, bassist Patrice Blanchard, trombonist Josh Roseman and vocalist Abdoulaye Diabate. Their newest album “It Is Written” was released in August 2005 on the ACT label. He also leads his own band the Eclectic Troubadours. David grew up in Denton, Texas, the home of the University of North Texas, formerly known as North Texas State. As a youngster, he started playing the bass clarinet and later played in bands with many of the children of North Texas faculty members. David, along with his twin brother, bassist Drew Phelps, attended North Texas, studying with Rich Matheson and guitar guru Jack Peterson, among others. David then traveled to Alberta, Canada where he studied at the Banff Centre with jazz greats Dave Liebman and Dave Holland (both Miles Davis alumni). He also studied with John Abercrombie, Steve Coleman and Kenny Wheeler.

Chris Bacas
Saxophonist Chris Bacas began his career at age fifteen as a sideman with a club band in York, PA, and after attending North Texas State, he began his jazz performance career in earnest. Beginning in 1983, Chris played in the Glen Miller Band, The Tommy Dorsey Band, the Artie Shaw Band, and Buddy Rich's legendary Big Band until Rich's passing in 1987. Over the past twenty years, Chris has appeared at festivals all over the world, including the Nice, North Sea, Cork, Santiago, Montreal, Moers Texaco, Annapolis, JVC New York, and Central PA Jazz Festivals. He has performed in Copenhagen at the Tivoli Gardens; in Los Angeles at The Hollywood Bowl and LA's Comedy Store; in New York's Blue Note and Birdland; at Chicago's Jazz Showcase; and in Washington D.C. at Blues Alley and One Step Down.

In conclusion Percy has this to impart, “Well, I hope people like this record. I have a lot of appreciation for everyone who supported Brand X back in the day, or any of the other projects I was involved in. The band follows on from stuff  I've done in the past, trying to keep the music unpredictable, interesting and moving in a  new direction.”

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/percyJonesnyc?fref=ts
http://www.percyjones.net/

To purchase MJ12 CD:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15925 (USA)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15925 (Europe)

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

MJ12 Featuring Bass Legend Percy Jones To Release Debut Album!


London, UK - MJ12, featuring Brand X bass legend Percy Jones, will be releasing their eagerly awaited debut album on Gonzo Multimedia UK on June 24, 2016. Recorded in the summer of 2015 at Shelter Island studios in Manhattan, MJ12 is jazz/fusion/prog music at its finest. Featuring virtuosic performances by all four band members, in many ways this album is an extension of what Percy Jones created with Brand X!

Says Percy, “We took the name from Majestik 12, which was supposedly a group of 12 scientists and engineers assembled in the late 40's to investigate UFO's. There is an ongoing debate as to whether this group actually existed or not. Stephen Moses and I had been doing  gigs for a while where we would invite  guests to sit in. We did all improv, so this was actually M&J +1 or 2.  After a while we started using David Phelps and Chris Bacas on a regular basis if they were available. At this point we started writing stuff, but keeping a lot of the improv thing going to keep it spontaneous. The end result was bits and pieces of ideas coming from everybody that were all tied together to try and make a coherent tune, but with lots of blowing inside. By last Summer we felt like it had shaped up well enough to record it, so we went in and recorded it over 2 days.”

Track listing:

1) Call 911
2) Bad American Dream Pt2
3) Magic Mist
4) Talk Time
5) The Wow Signal
6) Big Daddy Road
7) The Phantom Maracas
8) Guns And Pussy
9) Magic Mist Reprise

MJ12 is:

Percy Jones
Percy Jones grew up near Llandrindod Wells, Wales. He studied electronic engineering at the University of Liverpool before joining Liverpool Scene in 1967 He was a member of jazz fusion band Brand X from 1974 to 1980, and a reformed version which lasted from 1992 to 1997. He was in NYC based band Tunnels from 1990 until 2005. Still residing in New York, he is currently a member of MJ12. Jones is best known for his unique fretless bass sound. Jones was also briefly a member of the jazz fusion group Soft Machine, and has contributed to recordings by David Sylvian, Brian Eno, Steve Hackett, Roy Harper, Paranoise, Suzanne Vega, Richard Barbieri, Nova and Fovea Hex, amongst others.

Stephen Moses
After several years playing as part of “the loft jazz scene” in NYC with the likes of James Chance, John Zorn, Phillip Johnston, Ken Simon, Dave Hofstra (and many others) drummer/trombonist Stephen Moses started getting busier with more rock and jazz/rock in the CBGB's scene with Giant Metal Insects and Quality Trio with Jim Matus & Percy Jones. Alice Donut formed after that and took Stephen on the road and the studio for several years and a dozen albums followed by a few tours with Rasputina. Then a few years ago Stephen rejoined Percy to do what we do today.

Dave Phelps
Guitarist David Phelps is currently a member of Peter Apfelbaum's 11-piece band The New York Hieroglyphics, which includes many of today's best creative musicians, including drummer Dafnis Prieto, bassist Patrice Blanchard, trombonist Josh Roseman and vocalist Abdoulaye Diabate. Their newest album “It Is Written” was released in August 2005 on the ACT label. He also leads his own band the Eclectic Troubadours. David grew up in Denton, Texas, the home of the University of North Texas, formerly known as North Texas State. As a youngster, he started playing the bass clarinet and later played in bands with many of the children of North Texas faculty members. David, along with his twin brother, bassist Drew Phelps, attended North Texas, studying with Rich Matheson and guitar guru Jack Peterson, among others. David then traveled to Alberta, Canada where he studied at the Banff Centre with jazz greats Dave Liebman and Dave Holland (both Miles Davis alumni). He also studied with John Abercrombie, Steve Coleman and Kenny Wheeler.

Chris Bacas
Saxophonist Chris Bacas began his career at age fifteen as a sideman with a club band in York, PA, and after attending North Texas State, he began his jazz performance career in earnest. Beginning in 1983, Chris played in the Glen Miller Band, The Tommy Dorsey Band, the Artie Shaw Band, and Buddy Rich's legendary Big Band until Rich's passing in 1987. Over the past twenty years, Chris has appeared at festivals all over the world, including the Nice, North Sea, Cork, Santiago, Montreal, Moers Texaco, Annapolis, JVC New York, and Central PA Jazz Festivals. He has performed in Copenhagen at the Tivoli Gardens; in Los Angeles at The Hollywood Bowl and LA's Comedy Store; in New York's Blue Note and Birdland; at Chicago's Jazz Showcase; and in Washington D.C. at Blues Alley and One Step Down.

In conclusion Percy has this to impart, “Well, I hope people like this record. I have a lot of appreciation for everyone who supported Brand X back in the day, or any of the other projects I was involved in. The band follows on from stuff  I've done in the past, trying to keep the music unpredictable, interesting and moving in a  new direction.”

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/percyJonesnyc?fref=ts
http://www.percyjones.net/

To purchase MJ12 CD:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15925 (USA)
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15925 (Europe)

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