Sound of Contact's Dave Kerzner Releases New Studio Album "Static" Feat. Members of Genesis, Big Big Train, Porcupine Tree and others! OUT NOW!

Miami, Florida – Dave Kerzner, co-founder of the progressive rock group Sound of Contact, has released his second solo album “Static” with a physical CD version available in mid-October. “Static”. The album is the follow up to his highly acclaimed debut album “New World”. Joining him are special guests Steve Hackett (Genesis), Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Nick D’Virgilio (Big Big Train), Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree) and more in addition to his core group consisting of guitarists Fernando Perdomo and Randy McStine, fellow SOC band mate Matt Dorsey and drummer Derek Cintron.

“Static” is a “progressive rock opera” about the clutter and chaos in modern everyday life. It boldly navigates through subjects ranging from noise in our heads of ego, jealousy, technological distractions, substance abuse and narcissism to profiling the hypocritical and corrupt characters in politics, media and society today.

With a bit of dark humor, sarcasm and a retro-future dystopian view, with rich imaginative artwork created by Ed Unitsky, “Static” merges elements of a twisted Broadway musical with familiar vintage rock flavors like that of King Crimson's “Red” or Genesis' “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.” Other strong detectible influences include The Beatles, Queen, Radiohead and Kerzner's late band mate from “Thud,” Kevin Gilbert.

“I aim to bring forward some of my favorite qualities of classic rock and prog albums and blend it with something new that feels right today. “ Says Kerzner “I like creating memorable songs that tell a story in a melodic musical way. This is what I love about the timeless rock albums in my collection and my goal is to contribute to other people's collections in the same way.”

About working with Steve Hackett: “Having Steve Hackett guest on guitar again is a dream for me because I grew up listening to Genesis and wanting to play with a guitarist as innovative and melodic as Steve. I also love these sort of cross-generation collaborations where we meet in the middle of modern and retro,” says Kerzner.

Dave Kerzner and his band embarked on a US tour starting with headlining the ProgStock festival on October 14th in New Jersey where they performed all of the album “Static” live and then headed over to Chicago for the Progtoberfest at Reggie's on October 20th. From there the Dave Kerzner Band and fellow American proggers District 97 continue on their “Static-Vaults Tour” playing in other cities around the East Coast. In February 2018, the Dave Kerzner Band will be performing on Yes's Cruise To The Edge for the third time with plans to do a short tour of Europe in the Spring.

Dave Kerzner's “Static” is OUT NOW!



BIO:
Dave Kerzner is a singer, keyboardist, songwriter and producer from the US. He co-founded the Prog-award-winning rock group “Sound of Contact” with Simon Collins, son of Phil Collins, in 2009 and over the years has worked with artists such as Kevin Gilbert, Steve Hackett, Keith Emerson, Alan Parsons, Billy Sherwood, Jon Anderson, Steven Wilson, Joe Lynn Turner and more. His debut solo album “New World” featured the song “Stranded” which was nominated for “Anthem of the Year” in the 2015 Progressive Music Awards and it featured Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Steve Hackett (Genesis) and Jason Scheff (Chicago). Kerzner has released both a standard 1 CD and deluxe 2 CD version of his concept album “New World” as well as a live album and now a second studio album called “Static”. He continues to write and record with Sound of Contact as well as other musical projects.

To purchase: http://geni.us/Static

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

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

Sound of Contact's Dave Kerzner Releases New Studio Album "Static" Feat. Members of Genesis, Big Big Train, Porcupine Tree and others! OUT NOW!

Miami, Florida – Dave Kerzner, co-founder of the progressive rock group Sound of Contact, has released his second solo album “Static” with a physical CD version available in mid-October. “Static”. The album is the follow up to his highly acclaimed debut album “New World”. Joining him are special guests Steve Hackett (Genesis), Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Nick D’Virgilio (Big Big Train), Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree) and more in addition to his core group consisting of guitarists Fernando Perdomo and Randy McStine, fellow SOC band mate Matt Dorsey and drummer Derek Cintron.

“Static” is a “progressive rock opera” about the clutter and chaos in modern everyday life. It boldly navigates through subjects ranging from noise in our heads of ego, jealousy, technological distractions, substance abuse and narcissism to profiling the hypocritical and corrupt characters in politics, media and society today.

With a bit of dark humor, sarcasm and a retro-future dystopian view, with rich imaginative artwork created by Ed Unitsky, “Static” merges elements of a twisted Broadway musical with familiar vintage rock flavors like that of King Crimson's “Red” or Genesis' “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.” Other strong detectible influences include The Beatles, Queen, Radiohead and Kerzner's late band mate from “Thud,” Kevin Gilbert.

“I aim to bring forward some of my favorite qualities of classic rock and prog albums and blend it with something new that feels right today. “ Says Kerzner “I like creating memorable songs that tell a story in a melodic musical way. This is what I love about the timeless rock albums in my collection and my goal is to contribute to other people's collections in the same way.”

About working with Steve Hackett: “Having Steve Hackett guest on guitar again is a dream for me because I grew up listening to Genesis and wanting to play with a guitarist as innovative and melodic as Steve. I also love these sort of cross-generation collaborations where we meet in the middle of modern and retro,” says Kerzner.

Dave Kerzner and his band embarked on a US tour starting with headlining the ProgStock festival on October 14th in New Jersey where they performed all of the album “Static” live and then headed over to Chicago for the Progtoberfest at Reggie's on October 20th. From there the Dave Kerzner Band and fellow American proggers District 97 continue on their “Static-Vaults Tour” playing in other cities around the East Coast. In February 2018, the Dave Kerzner Band will be performing on Yes's Cruise To The Edge for the third time with plans to do a short tour of Europe in the Spring.

Dave Kerzner's “Static” is OUT NOW!



BIO:
Dave Kerzner is a singer, keyboardist, songwriter and producer from the US. He co-founded the Prog-award-winning rock group “Sound of Contact” with Simon Collins, son of Phil Collins, in 2009 and over the years has worked with artists such as Kevin Gilbert, Steve Hackett, Keith Emerson, Alan Parsons, Billy Sherwood, Jon Anderson, Steven Wilson, Joe Lynn Turner and more. His debut solo album “New World” featured the song “Stranded” which was nominated for “Anthem of the Year” in the 2015 Progressive Music Awards and it featured Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd), Steve Hackett (Genesis) and Jason Scheff (Chicago). Kerzner has released both a standard 1 CD and deluxe 2 CD version of his concept album “New World” as well as a live album and now a second studio album called “Static”. He continues to write and record with Sound of Contact as well as other musical projects.

To purchase: http://geni.us/Static

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

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

Japan/Porcupine Tree Keyboardist Richard Barbieri Releases 360° Video For “Solar Sea” Taken From His Forthcoming New Studio Album Planets + Persona

“What other planets are out there? Could there be any life 40 light-years away?” - The new 360° video for Richard Barbieri’s track “Solar Sea”, explores these questions, imagines these new worlds - colliding planets, ice crystals inside a hollow comet, volcanic asteroids spewing molten lava into open space and a breathtaking finale.

VIEW HERE: 

360° VIDEO VIEWING INSTRUCTIONS:
To view Richard Barbieri's Solar Sea in 360, you will need to view the video using the latest version of the YouTube app on iOS and Android. By moving your smartphone or tablet, you will be able to look around the 360 degree view. To watch on a desktop or laptop computer, you will need to make sure you are using the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer or Opera. You will then be able to move the view by clicking and dragging inside the video player or by using the WASD keys. For the most immersive experience, we recommend using a VR headset.

Having seen the “Solar Sea” video for the first time using a VR headset Richard enthusiastically states “THAT WAS INCREDIBLE! It’s amazing that Miles (Skarin) has captured the movement and turbulence of planets, the particles and matter that I was trying to reference in the music. It’s a totally immersive experience and, along with the artwork, another important addition to the album experience” 

360° video producer Miles Skarin (www.crystalspotlight.com) explains the development process and techniques behind this stunning visual journey “Following the concept of Solar Sea and drawing on the album artwork, we created dramatic environments which showcase the variety and possibility of distant planets and star systems. We wanted to create visually intricate scenes - large planets colliding, ice crystals spanning across a hollow comet and even a volcanic asteroid spewing molten lava into space. These scenes were created in Maxon's Cinema 4D by building the individual objects required for each scene and placing them in 3D space. To render the scenes, we used Video Copilot's Element 3D, which allowed us to add materials and lighting. We then animated a path for the camera to follow which would become our 360 degree viewpoint. The scenes were set up for 360 VR using Mettle's Skybox plugin. These tools and plugins were all brought together using Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, which create a very solid pipeline for 360 VR video production.”

Planets + Persona, the new album from Japan and Porcupine Tree keyboardist, Richard Barbieri, was recorded in London, Italy and Sweden; and is Barbieri's most ambitious, thoroughly engrossing and immersive album to date.  He skilfully utilises the talents of a pan-European core of musicians to produce an album that marries synthesized sounds with organic instrumentation to conjure up vivid, colourful and allusive soundscapes. It’s a skilful commingling of texture and tone, mood and musicality.

Planets + Persona tracklisting:
Solar Sea (07:30)
New Found Land (07:17)
Night Of The Hunter (10:44)
Interstellar Medium  (05:38)
Unholy (08:58)
Shafts Of Light (06:39)
Solar Storm (06:22)

Album teaser:

Planets+ Persona will be released on 3rd March except USA & Canada – 17th March & France – 26th May, on CD, LP & Digital Download (feat. New Found Land instant download) – all available to pre-order now here: http://found.ee/RB_PLANETS_PERSONA

Richard Barbieri will be performing live in the UK in March:
16th – Exeter, The Phoenix (w/Grice in support)
25th – Birmingham, The Birmingham & Midland Institute (A morning with / masterclass)
26th – Birmingham, The Blue Orange Theatre (w/ Grice in support)
28th – London, Hoxton Hall
For ticket details : https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/

As an ex-founder of the new-wave pioneers Japan, Barbieri was a leader in creating the ground-breaking synthesizer sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk and a whole raft of artists to follow. Together, the band recorded five studio albums culminating in the groundbreaking Tin Drum, which stayed in the UK Albums Chart for a year.

Following Japan, and a decade of collaborations on his own Medium label, Barbieri joined Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree, playing keyboards on all the band’s albums since 1993 as well as releasing two striking solo albums: Things Buried and Stranger Inside.

His ear for composing unique soundscapes and synth textures has led to collaboration albums with other talented composers, such as Steve Hogarth (Marillion) Steve Jansen & Mick Karn (Japan) and Tim Bowness (No-Man)

Richard Barbieri online:
http://www.richardbarbieri.net ;
https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/74aT58mmwQWq4qUxTE0SDr  ;
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PGdtnsImzX4HHafVwxgAQ
https://itun.es/gb/N7psi

For hi-res image downloads (media use only): http://www.kscopemusic.com/media/richard-barbieri ;

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

Japan/Porcupine Tree Keyboardist Richard Barbieri Releases 360° Video For “Solar Sea” Taken From His Forthcoming New Studio Album Planets + Persona

“What other planets are out there? Could there be any life 40 light-years away?” - The new 360° video for Richard Barbieri’s track “Solar Sea”, explores these questions, imagines these new worlds - colliding planets, ice crystals inside a hollow comet, volcanic asteroids spewing molten lava into open space and a breathtaking finale.

VIEW HERE: 

360° VIDEO VIEWING INSTRUCTIONS:
To view Richard Barbieri's Solar Sea in 360, you will need to view the video using the latest version of the YouTube app on iOS and Android. By moving your smartphone or tablet, you will be able to look around the 360 degree view. To watch on a desktop or laptop computer, you will need to make sure you are using the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer or Opera. You will then be able to move the view by clicking and dragging inside the video player or by using the WASD keys. For the most immersive experience, we recommend using a VR headset.

Having seen the “Solar Sea” video for the first time using a VR headset Richard enthusiastically states “THAT WAS INCREDIBLE! It’s amazing that Miles (Skarin) has captured the movement and turbulence of planets, the particles and matter that I was trying to reference in the music. It’s a totally immersive experience and, along with the artwork, another important addition to the album experience” 

360° video producer Miles Skarin (www.crystalspotlight.com) explains the development process and techniques behind this stunning visual journey “Following the concept of Solar Sea and drawing on the album artwork, we created dramatic environments which showcase the variety and possibility of distant planets and star systems. We wanted to create visually intricate scenes - large planets colliding, ice crystals spanning across a hollow comet and even a volcanic asteroid spewing molten lava into space. These scenes were created in Maxon's Cinema 4D by building the individual objects required for each scene and placing them in 3D space. To render the scenes, we used Video Copilot's Element 3D, which allowed us to add materials and lighting. We then animated a path for the camera to follow which would become our 360 degree viewpoint. The scenes were set up for 360 VR using Mettle's Skybox plugin. These tools and plugins were all brought together using Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, which create a very solid pipeline for 360 VR video production.”

Planets + Persona, the new album from Japan and Porcupine Tree keyboardist, Richard Barbieri, was recorded in London, Italy and Sweden; and is Barbieri's most ambitious, thoroughly engrossing and immersive album to date.  He skilfully utilises the talents of a pan-European core of musicians to produce an album that marries synthesized sounds with organic instrumentation to conjure up vivid, colourful and allusive soundscapes. It’s a skilful commingling of texture and tone, mood and musicality.

Planets + Persona tracklisting:
Solar Sea (07:30)
New Found Land (07:17)
Night Of The Hunter (10:44)
Interstellar Medium  (05:38)
Unholy (08:58)
Shafts Of Light (06:39)
Solar Storm (06:22)

Album teaser:

Planets+ Persona will be released on 3rd March except USA & Canada – 17th March & France – 26th May, on CD, LP & Digital Download (feat. New Found Land instant download) – all available to pre-order now here: http://found.ee/RB_PLANETS_PERSONA

Richard Barbieri will be performing live in the UK in March:
16th – Exeter, The Phoenix (w/Grice in support)
25th – Birmingham, The Birmingham & Midland Institute (A morning with / masterclass)
26th – Birmingham, The Blue Orange Theatre (w/ Grice in support)
28th – London, Hoxton Hall
For ticket details : https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/

As an ex-founder of the new-wave pioneers Japan, Barbieri was a leader in creating the ground-breaking synthesizer sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk and a whole raft of artists to follow. Together, the band recorded five studio albums culminating in the groundbreaking Tin Drum, which stayed in the UK Albums Chart for a year.

Following Japan, and a decade of collaborations on his own Medium label, Barbieri joined Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree, playing keyboards on all the band’s albums since 1993 as well as releasing two striking solo albums: Things Buried and Stranger Inside.

His ear for composing unique soundscapes and synth textures has led to collaboration albums with other talented composers, such as Steve Hogarth (Marillion) Steve Jansen & Mick Karn (Japan) and Tim Bowness (No-Man)

Richard Barbieri online:
http://www.richardbarbieri.net ;
https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/74aT58mmwQWq4qUxTE0SDr  ;
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PGdtnsImzX4HHafVwxgAQ
https://itun.es/gb/N7psi

For hi-res image downloads (media use only): http://www.kscopemusic.com/media/richard-barbieri ;

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

Japan/Porcupine Tree Keyboardist Richard Barbieri Releases 360° Video For “Solar Sea” Taken From His Forthcoming New Studio Album Planets + Persona

“What other planets are out there? Could there be any life 40 light-years away?” - The new 360° video for Richard Barbieri’s track “Solar Sea”, explores these questions, imagines these new worlds - colliding planets, ice crystals inside a hollow comet, volcanic asteroids spewing molten lava into open space and a breathtaking finale.

VIEW HERE: 

360° VIDEO VIEWING INSTRUCTIONS:
To view Richard Barbieri's Solar Sea in 360, you will need to view the video using the latest version of the YouTube app on iOS and Android. By moving your smartphone or tablet, you will be able to look around the 360 degree view. To watch on a desktop or laptop computer, you will need to make sure you are using the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer or Opera. You will then be able to move the view by clicking and dragging inside the video player or by using the WASD keys. For the most immersive experience, we recommend using a VR headset.

Having seen the “Solar Sea” video for the first time using a VR headset Richard enthusiastically states “THAT WAS INCREDIBLE! It’s amazing that Miles (Skarin) has captured the movement and turbulence of planets, the particles and matter that I was trying to reference in the music. It’s a totally immersive experience and, along with the artwork, another important addition to the album experience” 

360° video producer Miles Skarin (www.crystalspotlight.com) explains the development process and techniques behind this stunning visual journey “Following the concept of Solar Sea and drawing on the album artwork, we created dramatic environments which showcase the variety and possibility of distant planets and star systems. We wanted to create visually intricate scenes - large planets colliding, ice crystals spanning across a hollow comet and even a volcanic asteroid spewing molten lava into space. These scenes were created in Maxon's Cinema 4D by building the individual objects required for each scene and placing them in 3D space. To render the scenes, we used Video Copilot's Element 3D, which allowed us to add materials and lighting. We then animated a path for the camera to follow which would become our 360 degree viewpoint. The scenes were set up for 360 VR using Mettle's Skybox plugin. These tools and plugins were all brought together using Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, which create a very solid pipeline for 360 VR video production.”

Planets + Persona, the new album from Japan and Porcupine Tree keyboardist, Richard Barbieri, was recorded in London, Italy and Sweden; and is Barbieri's most ambitious, thoroughly engrossing and immersive album to date.  He skilfully utilises the talents of a pan-European core of musicians to produce an album that marries synthesized sounds with organic instrumentation to conjure up vivid, colourful and allusive soundscapes. It’s a skilful commingling of texture and tone, mood and musicality.

Planets + Persona tracklisting:
Solar Sea (07:30)
New Found Land (07:17)
Night Of The Hunter (10:44)
Interstellar Medium  (05:38)
Unholy (08:58)
Shafts Of Light (06:39)
Solar Storm (06:22)

Album teaser:

Planets+ Persona will be released on 3rd March except USA & Canada – 17th March & France – 26th May, on CD, LP & Digital Download (feat. New Found Land instant download) – all available to pre-order now here: http://found.ee/RB_PLANETS_PERSONA

Richard Barbieri will be performing live in the UK in March:
16th – Exeter, The Phoenix (w/Grice in support)
25th – Birmingham, The Birmingham & Midland Institute (A morning with / masterclass)
26th – Birmingham, The Blue Orange Theatre (w/ Grice in support)
28th – London, Hoxton Hall
For ticket details : https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/

As an ex-founder of the new-wave pioneers Japan, Barbieri was a leader in creating the ground-breaking synthesizer sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk and a whole raft of artists to follow. Together, the band recorded five studio albums culminating in the groundbreaking Tin Drum, which stayed in the UK Albums Chart for a year.

Following Japan, and a decade of collaborations on his own Medium label, Barbieri joined Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree, playing keyboards on all the band’s albums since 1993 as well as releasing two striking solo albums: Things Buried and Stranger Inside.

His ear for composing unique soundscapes and synth textures has led to collaboration albums with other talented composers, such as Steve Hogarth (Marillion) Steve Jansen & Mick Karn (Japan) and Tim Bowness (No-Man)

Richard Barbieri online:
http://www.richardbarbieri.net ;
https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/74aT58mmwQWq4qUxTE0SDr  ;
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PGdtnsImzX4HHafVwxgAQ
https://itun.es/gb/N7psi

For hi-res image downloads (media use only): http://www.kscopemusic.com/media/richard-barbieri ;

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

Japan and Porcupine Tree Keyboardist Richard Barbieri Set To Release New Studio Album Planets + Persona via Kscope on March 3, 2017

Album teaser clip launched!

London - Legendary Japan and Porcupine Tree keyboardist Richard Barbieri releases his most sonically expansive work to date, with a brand new album entitled Planets + Persona. It is the third Barbieri solo album, but the first to feature such a wide pallet of instrumentation. Vintage analogue synthesizers combine with acoustic performances and jazz elements. Twisted voices are always present, though not in a language we can recognize. Barbieri skilfully utilizes the talents of a pan-European core of musicians to produce an album that marries synthesized sounds with organic instrumentation to conjure up vivid, colourful and allusive soundscapes. It's a skillful commingling of texture and tone, mood and musicality.

Fans can have a taste of Planets + Persona here with a teaser of all 7 album tracks:

Recorded in London, Italy and Sweden, this is Barbieri's most ambitious solo work to date with a central theme of duality that runs through the album. The title alone – “Planets and Persona” alludes to this, and the dialectic theme is a constant throughout the contrasting and shape-shifting sounds of the album. Take, for example, Night of the Hunter – inspired by Charles Laughton's only directorial movie, the piece moves through subtle shifts of atmosphere and emphasis, through melodic, dream-like sequences through to harsher tones; it's a piece that builds to a profound cumulative effect. Elsewhere, Solar Storm shifts gears artfully, with Percy Jones' sometimes percussive bass work contrasting to the smoother synthesizer textures incisively. Barbieri's purely solo Interstellar Medium shows that his ability to develop and realize a theme under his own auspices that underscores his innate creativity. It's but one aspect of a thoroughly engrossing and immersive album.

Planets + Persona tracklisting:
Solar Sea (07:30)
New Found Land (07:17)
Night Of The Hunter (10:44)
Interstellar Medium (05:38)
Unholy (08:58)
Shafts Of Light (06:39)
Solar Storm (06:22])

As an ex-founder of the new-wave pioneers Japan, Barbieri was a leader in creating the ground-breaking synthesizer sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk and a whole raft of artists to follow. Together, the band recorded five studio albums culminating in the groundbreaking Tin Drum, which stayed in the UK Albums Chart for a year.

Following Japan, and a decade of collaborations on his own Medium label, Barbieri joined Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree, playing keyboards on all the band's albums since 1993 as well as releasing two striking solo albums: Things Buried and Stranger Inside.

His ear for composing unique soundscapes and synth textures has led to collaboration albums with other talented composers, such as Steve Hogarth (Marillion) Steve Jansen & Mick Karn (Japan) and Tim Bowness (No-Man)

Planets+ Persona will be released on the following formats – all available to pre-order now here: http://found.ee/RB_PLANETS_PERSONA

CD - The album is complimented with photographic scenes of dramatic Icelandic landscapes combined with studio shots in the 16-page booklet.
2LP - The gatefold sleeve features the stunning Icelandic ice cave scene on the cover and has been mastered by “Tubular Bells” producer Simon Heyworth. The double LP runs at 45 rpm for stunning quality and is pressed on 180g heavyweight vinyl
Digital (pre-orders include an instant download of the track New Found Land)

Richard Barbieri online:
http://www.richardbarbieri.net
https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/74aT58mmwQWq4qUxTE0SDr
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PGdtnsImzX4HHafVwxgAQ
https://itun.es/gb/N7psi

For hi-res image downloads (media use only): http://www.kscopemusic.com/media/richard-barbieri

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

Photo credit: Ben Meadows

Japan and Porcupine Tree Keyboardist Richard Barbieri Set To Release New Studio Album Planets + Persona via Kscope on March 3, 2017

Album teaser clip launched!

London - Legendary Japan and Porcupine Tree keyboardist Richard Barbieri releases his most sonically expansive work to date, with a brand new album entitled Planets + Persona. It is the third Barbieri solo album, but the first to feature such a wide pallet of instrumentation. Vintage analogue synthesizers combine with acoustic performances and jazz elements. Twisted voices are always present, though not in a language we can recognize. Barbieri skilfully utilizes the talents of a pan-European core of musicians to produce an album that marries synthesized sounds with organic instrumentation to conjure up vivid, colourful and allusive soundscapes. It's a skillful commingling of texture and tone, mood and musicality.

Fans can have a taste of Planets + Persona here with a teaser of all 7 album tracks:

Recorded in London, Italy and Sweden, this is Barbieri's most ambitious solo work to date with a central theme of duality that runs through the album. The title alone – “Planets and Persona” alludes to this, and the dialectic theme is a constant throughout the contrasting and shape-shifting sounds of the album. Take, for example, Night of the Hunter – inspired by Charles Laughton's only directorial movie, the piece moves through subtle shifts of atmosphere and emphasis, through melodic, dream-like sequences through to harsher tones; it's a piece that builds to a profound cumulative effect. Elsewhere, Solar Storm shifts gears artfully, with Percy Jones' sometimes percussive bass work contrasting to the smoother synthesizer textures incisively. Barbieri's purely solo Interstellar Medium shows that his ability to develop and realize a theme under his own auspices that underscores his innate creativity. It's but one aspect of a thoroughly engrossing and immersive album.

Planets + Persona tracklisting:
Solar Sea (07:30)
New Found Land (07:17)
Night Of The Hunter (10:44)
Interstellar Medium (05:38)
Unholy (08:58)
Shafts Of Light (06:39)
Solar Storm (06:22])

As an ex-founder of the new-wave pioneers Japan, Barbieri was a leader in creating the ground-breaking synthesizer sound that defined the band and influenced the likes of The Human League, Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Talk Talk and a whole raft of artists to follow. Together, the band recorded five studio albums culminating in the groundbreaking Tin Drum, which stayed in the UK Albums Chart for a year.

Following Japan, and a decade of collaborations on his own Medium label, Barbieri joined Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree, playing keyboards on all the band's albums since 1993 as well as releasing two striking solo albums: Things Buried and Stranger Inside.

His ear for composing unique soundscapes and synth textures has led to collaboration albums with other talented composers, such as Steve Hogarth (Marillion) Steve Jansen & Mick Karn (Japan) and Tim Bowness (No-Man)

Planets+ Persona will be released on the following formats – all available to pre-order now here: http://found.ee/RB_PLANETS_PERSONA

CD - The album is complimented with photographic scenes of dramatic Icelandic landscapes combined with studio shots in the 16-page booklet.
2LP - The gatefold sleeve features the stunning Icelandic ice cave scene on the cover and has been mastered by “Tubular Bells” producer Simon Heyworth. The double LP runs at 45 rpm for stunning quality and is pressed on 180g heavyweight vinyl
Digital (pre-orders include an instant download of the track New Found Land)

Richard Barbieri online:
http://www.richardbarbieri.net
https://www.facebook.com/RichardBarbieriOfficial/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/74aT58mmwQWq4qUxTE0SDr
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2PGdtnsImzX4HHafVwxgAQ
https://itun.es/gb/N7psi

For hi-res image downloads (media use only): http://www.kscopemusic.com/media/richard-barbieri

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

Photo credit: Ben Meadows

Burnt Belief, Multifaceted Instrumental Band Feat. Porcupine Tree Member, To Release Third Installment of Trilogy: “Emergent”

Boston, MA - Inspired by the unspoken and hidden truths behind our daily reality, “Emergent” is the third in a trilogy of collaborative works by bassist Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree/Metallic Taste of Blood/O.R.k etc) and experimental US guitarist Jon Durant, under the working name Burnt Belief.

“Emergent” builds on the duo's previous work whilst still exploring the fundamental aspects that define Burnt Belief's sonic world, namely hypnotic rhythmic elements seamlessly blended with lush guitar led soundscapes and deep ambient atmospherics. “Emergent” also showcases the intense and unpredictable, yet satisfying guitar playing from Durant, who manages to tame elemental, skittish and frequently unsettling tones, by subtly wrapping them in layers of magnetic aura. Drumming throughout is Vinny Sabatino, who brings an inventive, muscular and precise beat to complement Colin Edwin's expansive and expressive fretless and upright basses.

Says Jon Durant, “One of the things that makes Burnt Belief unique in the world of instrumental progressive rock/fusion oriented musics is that we are not at all focused on displays of chops, but rather focus on trying to tell stories through the music. The title, 'Emergent', is a reference to the theory that consciousness is an emergent property of a functioning neurosystem. Colin and I both share a fascination with how the mind works and the ways that hidden processes and background information can subtly influence more obvious conscious thoughts without our being aware of it. Similarly, throughout the album, there are very subtle background elements that have in some way directly informed the bigger picture of the compositions.”

Colin Edwin adds, “With instrumental music, any meaning is obviously less explicit than when lyrics are present, but as we neared completion of the album, it became apparent to me that the majority of pieces on 'Emergent' have elements of unresolved tension or darker moments somewhere below the surface. Something I have noticed more and more is that there are many seemingly straightforward things which, on closer inspection, turn out to be really quite complex and insoluble, and I have started thinking of the album as bringing out the feeling of suddenly seeing more than you expected and having an expanded view coming into focus. This expanded view isn't necessarily optimistic however, so for me the image of an aggressive looking insect appearing inside a pretty looking flower on the cover is perfect.”

“Emergent” amply rewards repeated listens, unveiling it's layered coalescence of antithetical components gradually, such as the discordant conversational flexes between upright bass and electronic percussion during “Until the Stars Go Out”, or the measured rhythmic resolution during “Confidence of Ignorance”. The nine and half minute title track, which unfolds gradually and explores an unhurried yet palpable tension, is a thought provoking meditation on the unstoppable changes around us all, “Emergent” is a genre defying journey for intrepid listeners keen to explore new musical territories.

Packaged in a cardboard sleeve pack with a four page booklet.

Tracklisting:
1. The Bubble Bursts (6.02)
2. More Snow (6.10)
3. The Confidence of Ignorance (5.06)
4. Emergent (9.32)
5. Until the Stars Go Out (6.26)
6. Language of Movement (7.01)
7. Turning Torso (10.11)
8. Ghosts Aquatic (6.21)

Guitarist Jon Durant brings a unique sense of texture and melody to his instrument. His distinctive “cloud guitar” soundscapes and engaging lead work have graced numerous CD recordings and film soundtracks. As executive producer of Alchemy Records, he produces recordings for internationally acclaimed artists in his small home studio. Alongside Durant's records, Alchemy has released albums by artists Michael Manring, Gary Willis, Leni Stern/Wayne Krantz and others.

Colin Edwin is best known as founder member and bassist of the internationally successful , long time progressive rock favourites Porcupine Tree. Outside of Porcupine Tree, as well as solo work and various guest spots, Colin's unique and creative bass playing have lead him to collaborate frequently with like minded and inventive musicians, including (former Henry Cow) multi - instrumentalist and reed player Geoff Leigh (as Ex-Wise Heads), fellow bassist Lorenzo Feliciati in the critically acclaimed duo Twinscapes, and most recently Endless Tapes with drummer Alessandro Pedretti. Colin is also a member of the intense and genre defying band Metallic Taste of Blood, with two albums to date on Rarenoise Records, as well as playing and recording with metal pioneers Obake. In 2015 he formed the band O.R.k. alongside King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto, vocalist LEF and guitarist Carmelo Pipitone from Italy’s cult “anti-folk” band Marta Sui Tubi. 2016 has so far seen Euro and South American dates with O.R.k. and also the release of Colin's adventurous collaboration (as Astarta/Edwin) with top Ukrainian female vocal duo Astarta, drawing heavily but expanding on their earthy Slavic folk roots.

Vinny Sabatino is a first call drummer from Boston, best known for his funky grooves. He's recorded and performed extensively with Jon Durant, as well as with a wide range of artists including current Santana lead vocalist Ray Greene, multiple Grammy winning producer Jeff Bhasker, film composer Michael Whalen and folk artist Porter Smith. His band, Nightshift, is the most in demand band in Boston, and features vocalist (and winner of The Voice) Jermaine Paul, Bassist Barron Browne (Jean Luc Ponty, Steve Smith, Billy Cobham).

In closing Jon has this to impart, “Most importantly, I'd like listeners to actively listen with an open mind. Good speakers or headphones are a particular plus, as there's a lot going on that's worth paying attention to. Our music can take you on a very compelling journey if you're willing to let it.”

Colin adds, “I always believe that people will find their own relationship with any piece of art, music, book or film and it's usually more powerful and meaningful that way, so any messages usually work best when they are to be uncovered and discovered rather than being upfront. If we have successfully created an all encompassing 'sound world' that takes people somewhere else when they hear it, I consider it a success. After all, doesn't music exist to express what words can't?”

To purchase Burnt Belief's “Emergent”:
https://www.amazon.com/Emergent-Burnt-Belief/dp/B01IPNT04A

Video for “Dissemble” (from Etymology):

Video for “Semazen” (from Burnt Belief):

Burnt Belief Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/BurntBelief/

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

Burnt Belief, Multifaceted Instrumental Band Feat. Porcupine Tree Member, To Release Third Installment of Trilogy: “Emergent”

Boston, MA - Inspired by the unspoken and hidden truths behind our daily reality, “Emergent” is the third in a trilogy of collaborative works by bassist Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree/Metallic Taste of Blood/O.R.k etc) and experimental US guitarist Jon Durant, under the working name Burnt Belief.

“Emergent” builds on the duo's previous work whilst still exploring the fundamental aspects that define Burnt Belief's sonic world, namely hypnotic rhythmic elements seamlessly blended with lush guitar led soundscapes and deep ambient atmospherics. “Emergent” also showcases the intense and unpredictable, yet satisfying guitar playing from Durant, who manages to tame elemental, skittish and frequently unsettling tones, by subtly wrapping them in layers of magnetic aura. Drumming throughout is Vinny Sabatino, who brings an inventive, muscular and precise beat to complement Colin Edwin's expansive and expressive fretless and upright basses.

Says Jon Durant, “One of the things that makes Burnt Belief unique in the world of instrumental progressive rock/fusion oriented musics is that we are not at all focused on displays of chops, but rather focus on trying to tell stories through the music. The title, 'Emergent', is a reference to the theory that consciousness is an emergent property of a functioning neurosystem. Colin and I both share a fascination with how the mind works and the ways that hidden processes and background information can subtly influence more obvious conscious thoughts without our being aware of it. Similarly, throughout the album, there are very subtle background elements that have in some way directly informed the bigger picture of the compositions.”

Colin Edwin adds, “With instrumental music, any meaning is obviously less explicit than when lyrics are present, but as we neared completion of the album, it became apparent to me that the majority of pieces on 'Emergent' have elements of unresolved tension or darker moments somewhere below the surface. Something I have noticed more and more is that there are many seemingly straightforward things which, on closer inspection, turn out to be really quite complex and insoluble, and I have started thinking of the album as bringing out the feeling of suddenly seeing more than you expected and having an expanded view coming into focus. This expanded view isn't necessarily optimistic however, so for me the image of an aggressive looking insect appearing inside a pretty looking flower on the cover is perfect.”

“Emergent” amply rewards repeated listens, unveiling it's layered coalescence of antithetical components gradually, such as the discordant conversational flexes between upright bass and electronic percussion during “Until the Stars Go Out”, or the measured rhythmic resolution during “Confidence of Ignorance”. The nine and half minute title track, which unfolds gradually and explores an unhurried yet palpable tension, is a thought provoking meditation on the unstoppable changes around us all, “Emergent” is a genre defying journey for intrepid listeners keen to explore new musical territories.

Packaged in a cardboard sleeve pack with a four page booklet.

Tracklisting:
1. The Bubble Bursts (6.02)
2. More Snow (6.10)
3. The Confidence of Ignorance (5.06)
4. Emergent (9.32)
5. Until the Stars Go Out (6.26)
6. Language of Movement (7.01)
7. Turning Torso (10.11)
8. Ghosts Aquatic (6.21)

Guitarist Jon Durant brings a unique sense of texture and melody to his instrument. His distinctive “cloud guitar” soundscapes and engaging lead work have graced numerous CD recordings and film soundtracks. As executive producer of Alchemy Records, he produces recordings for internationally acclaimed artists in his small home studio. Alongside Durant's records, Alchemy has released albums by artists Michael Manring, Gary Willis, Leni Stern/Wayne Krantz and others.

Colin Edwin is best known as founder member and bassist of the internationally successful , long time progressive rock favourites Porcupine Tree. Outside of Porcupine Tree, as well as solo work and various guest spots, Colin's unique and creative bass playing have lead him to collaborate frequently with like minded and inventive musicians, including (former Henry Cow) multi - instrumentalist and reed player Geoff Leigh (as Ex-Wise Heads), fellow bassist Lorenzo Feliciati in the critically acclaimed duo Twinscapes, and most recently Endless Tapes with drummer Alessandro Pedretti. Colin is also a member of the intense and genre defying band Metallic Taste of Blood, with two albums to date on Rarenoise Records, as well as playing and recording with metal pioneers Obake. In 2015 he formed the band O.R.k. alongside King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto, vocalist LEF and guitarist Carmelo Pipitone from Italy’s cult “anti-folk” band Marta Sui Tubi. 2016 has so far seen Euro and South American dates with O.R.k. and also the release of Colin's adventurous collaboration (as Astarta/Edwin) with top Ukrainian female vocal duo Astarta, drawing heavily but expanding on their earthy Slavic folk roots.

Vinny Sabatino is a first call drummer from Boston, best known for his funky grooves. He's recorded and performed extensively with Jon Durant, as well as with a wide range of artists including current Santana lead vocalist Ray Greene, multiple Grammy winning producer Jeff Bhasker, film composer Michael Whalen and folk artist Porter Smith. His band, Nightshift, is the most in demand band in Boston, and features vocalist (and winner of The Voice) Jermaine Paul, Bassist Barron Browne (Jean Luc Ponty, Steve Smith, Billy Cobham).

In closing Jon has this to impart, “Most importantly, I'd like listeners to actively listen with an open mind. Good speakers or headphones are a particular plus, as there's a lot going on that's worth paying attention to. Our music can take you on a very compelling journey if you're willing to let it.”

Colin adds, “I always believe that people will find their own relationship with any piece of art, music, book or film and it's usually more powerful and meaningful that way, so any messages usually work best when they are to be uncovered and discovered rather than being upfront. If we have successfully created an all encompassing 'sound world' that takes people somewhere else when they hear it, I consider it a success. After all, doesn't music exist to express what words can't?”

To purchase Burnt Belief's “Emergent”:
https://www.amazon.com/Emergent-Burnt-Belief/dp/B01IPNT04A

Video for “Dissemble” (from Etymology):

Video for “Semazen” (from Burnt Belief):

Burnt Belief Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/BurntBelief/

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

Burnt Belief, Multifaceted Instrumental Band Feat. Porcupine Tree Member, To Release Third Installment of Trilogy: “Emergent”

Boston, MA - Inspired by the unspoken and hidden truths behind our daily reality, “Emergent” is the third in a trilogy of collaborative works by bassist Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree/Metallic Taste of Blood/O.R.k etc) and experimental US guitarist Jon Durant, under the working name Burnt Belief.

“Emergent” builds on the duo's previous work whilst still exploring the fundamental aspects that define Burnt Belief's sonic world, namely hypnotic rhythmic elements seamlessly blended with lush guitar led soundscapes and deep ambient atmospherics. “Emergent” also showcases the intense and unpredictable, yet satisfying guitar playing from Durant, who manages to tame elemental, skittish and frequently unsettling tones, by subtly wrapping them in layers of magnetic aura. Drumming throughout is Vinny Sabatino, who brings an inventive, muscular and precise beat to complement Colin Edwin's expansive and expressive fretless and upright basses.

Says Jon Durant, “One of the things that makes Burnt Belief unique in the world of instrumental progressive rock/fusion oriented musics is that we are not at all focused on displays of chops, but rather focus on trying to tell stories through the music. The title, 'Emergent', is a reference to the theory that consciousness is an emergent property of a functioning neurosystem. Colin and I both share a fascination with how the mind works and the ways that hidden processes and background information can subtly influence more obvious conscious thoughts without our being aware of it. Similarly, throughout the album, there are very subtle background elements that have in some way directly informed the bigger picture of the compositions.”

Colin Edwin adds, “With instrumental music, any meaning is obviously less explicit than when lyrics are present, but as we neared completion of the album, it became apparent to me that the majority of pieces on 'Emergent' have elements of unresolved tension or darker moments somewhere below the surface. Something I have noticed more and more is that there are many seemingly straightforward things which, on closer inspection, turn out to be really quite complex and insoluble, and I have started thinking of the album as bringing out the feeling of suddenly seeing more than you expected and having an expanded view coming into focus. This expanded view isn't necessarily optimistic however, so for me the image of an aggressive looking insect appearing inside a pretty looking flower on the cover is perfect.”

“Emergent” amply rewards repeated listens, unveiling it's layered coalescence of antithetical components gradually, such as the discordant conversational flexes between upright bass and electronic percussion during “Until the Stars Go Out”, or the measured rhythmic resolution during “Confidence of Ignorance”. The nine and half minute title track, which unfolds gradually and explores an unhurried yet palpable tension, is a thought provoking meditation on the unstoppable changes around us all, “Emergent” is a genre defying journey for intrepid listeners keen to explore new musical territories.

Packaged in a cardboard sleeve pack with a four page booklet.

Tracklisting:
1. The Bubble Bursts (6.02)
2. More Snow (6.10)
3. The Confidence of Ignorance (5.06)
4. Emergent (9.32)
5. Until the Stars Go Out (6.26)
6. Language of Movement (7.01)
7. Turning Torso (10.11)
8. Ghosts Aquatic (6.21)

Guitarist Jon Durant brings a unique sense of texture and melody to his instrument. His distinctive “cloud guitar” soundscapes and engaging lead work have graced numerous CD recordings and film soundtracks. As executive producer of Alchemy Records, he produces recordings for internationally acclaimed artists in his small home studio. Alongside Durant's records, Alchemy has released albums by artists Michael Manring, Gary Willis, Leni Stern/Wayne Krantz and others.

Colin Edwin is best known as founder member and bassist of the internationally successful , long time progressive rock favourites Porcupine Tree. Outside of Porcupine Tree, as well as solo work and various guest spots, Colin's unique and creative bass playing have lead him to collaborate frequently with like minded and inventive musicians, including (former Henry Cow) multi - instrumentalist and reed player Geoff Leigh (as Ex-Wise Heads), fellow bassist Lorenzo Feliciati in the critically acclaimed duo Twinscapes, and most recently Endless Tapes with drummer Alessandro Pedretti. Colin is also a member of the intense and genre defying band Metallic Taste of Blood, with two albums to date on Rarenoise Records, as well as playing and recording with metal pioneers Obake. In 2015 he formed the band O.R.k. alongside King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto, vocalist LEF and guitarist Carmelo Pipitone from Italy’s cult “anti-folk” band Marta Sui Tubi. 2016 has so far seen Euro and South American dates with O.R.k. and also the release of Colin's adventurous collaboration (as Astarta/Edwin) with top Ukrainian female vocal duo Astarta, drawing heavily but expanding on their earthy Slavic folk roots.

Vinny Sabatino is a first call drummer from Boston, best known for his funky grooves. He's recorded and performed extensively with Jon Durant, as well as with a wide range of artists including current Santana lead vocalist Ray Greene, multiple Grammy winning producer Jeff Bhasker, film composer Michael Whalen and folk artist Porter Smith. His band, Nightshift, is the most in demand band in Boston, and features vocalist (and winner of The Voice) Jermaine Paul, Bassist Barron Browne (Jean Luc Ponty, Steve Smith, Billy Cobham).

In closing Jon has this to impart, “Most importantly, I'd like listeners to actively listen with an open mind. Good speakers or headphones are a particular plus, as there's a lot going on that's worth paying attention to. Our music can take you on a very compelling journey if you're willing to let it.”

Colin adds, “I always believe that people will find their own relationship with any piece of art, music, book or film and it's usually more powerful and meaningful that way, so any messages usually work best when they are to be uncovered and discovered rather than being upfront. If we have successfully created an all encompassing 'sound world' that takes people somewhere else when they hear it, I consider it a success. After all, doesn't music exist to express what words can't?”

To purchase Burnt Belief's “Emergent”:
https://www.amazon.com/Emergent-Burnt-Belief/dp/B01IPNT04A

Video for “Dissemble” (from Etymology):

Video for “Semazen” (from Burnt Belief):

Burnt Belief Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/BurntBelief/

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

The World’s Leading Orchestra Joins Prog Rock Superstars For An Epic Album Of Symphonic Adventure!

Featuring members of Porcupine Tree, Asia, Yes, Focus, Alan Parsons Project & more!

Los Angeles, CA - Only a world-class orchestra could pull off a project this ambitious, an undertaking so vast that none other than the hallowed halls of Abby Road Studios could contain and record music of this magnitude. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents an epic album of fully orchestrated renditions of progressive rock masterpieces by the likes of Pink Floyd, Yes, ELP, Jethro Tull and more! What’s more, a stellar group of musical virtuosos from the prog rock stratosphere join the orchestra, lending their talents to these intricately arranged masterworks in a collaborative match made in prog rock heaven. Longtime Moody Blues & Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz adds his own unique flare to the orchestrated version of Gentle Giant’s “Think Of Me With Kindness” while Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison lays down the rhythm on a brilliant version of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man.” This album also contains an electrifying contribution by Three Dog Night keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon, sadly, one of the final recordings he made before his passing earlier this year. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Plays Prog Rock Classics will be made available on both CD and vinyl starting March 31 courtesy of Purple Pyramid Records. Fans of progressive rock and epic symphonic rock will not want to miss this!

1. ELP Suite: Tarkus / From The Beginning / Tarkus (Reprise)
2. Comfortably Numb feat. Ian Bairnson
3. Thick As A Brick feat. Richard Harvey
4. 21st Century Schizoid Man feat. Gavin Harrison and Guthrie Govan
5. Focus II feat. Thijs Van Leer
6. Nights In White Satin feat. Mark Feltham
7. Think Of Me With Kindness feat. Patrick Moraz
8. Roundabout feat. Jimmy Greenspoon
9. Watcher Of The Skies [CD ONLY]
10. Red Barchetta feat. Adrian Smith [CD ONLY]

Pre-order the CD: http://geni.us/RPOProgCD
Pre-order the LP: http://geni.us/RPOProgLP
Pre-order the digital album: http://geni.us/RPOProgdigital

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

The World’s Leading Orchestra Joins Prog Rock Superstars For An Epic Album Of Symphonic Adventure!

Featuring members of Porcupine Tree, Asia, Yes, Focus, Alan Parsons Project & more!

Los Angeles, CA - Only a world-class orchestra could pull off a project this ambitious, an undertaking so vast that none other than the hallowed halls of Abby Road Studios could contain and record music of this magnitude. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents an epic album of fully orchestrated renditions of progressive rock masterpieces by the likes of Pink Floyd, Yes, ELP, Jethro Tull and more! What’s more, a stellar group of musical virtuosos from the prog rock stratosphere join the orchestra, lending their talents to these intricately arranged masterworks in a collaborative match made in prog rock heaven. Longtime Moody Blues & Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz adds his own unique flare to the orchestrated version of Gentle Giant’s “Think Of Me With Kindness” while Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison lays down the rhythm on a brilliant version of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man.” This album also contains an electrifying contribution by Three Dog Night keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon, sadly, one of the final recordings he made before his passing earlier this year. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Plays Prog Rock Classics will be made available on both CD and vinyl starting March 31 courtesy of Purple Pyramid Records. Fans of progressive rock and epic symphonic rock will not want to miss this!

1. ELP Suite: Tarkus / From The Beginning / Tarkus (Reprise)
2. Comfortably Numb feat. Ian Bairnson
3. Thick As A Brick feat. Richard Harvey
4. 21st Century Schizoid Man feat. Gavin Harrison and Guthrie Govan
5. Focus II feat. Thijs Van Leer
6. Nights In White Satin feat. Mark Feltham
7. Think Of Me With Kindness feat. Patrick Moraz
8. Roundabout feat. Jimmy Greenspoon
9. Watcher Of The Skies [CD ONLY]
10. Red Barchetta feat. Adrian Smith [CD ONLY]

Pre-order the CD: http://geni.us/RPOProgCD
Pre-order the LP: http://geni.us/RPOProgLP
Pre-order the digital album: http://geni.us/RPOProgdigital

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

Prog Ensemble Exovex Releases Debut Album Radio Silence Featuring Members of Porcupine Tree, NIN, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan

Greenville, SC – The Prog community is buzzing with excitement about the new release by progressive rock ensemble Exovex featuring members of Porcupine Tree, NIN, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan!  Radio Silence is the project's debut album and features Josh Freese (NIN, A Perfect Circle, Devo) and Keith Carlock (Sting, John Meyer, Steely Dan) on drums. The album also showcases two members of Porcupine Tree, Gavin Harrison on drums and Richard Barbieri on keyboards and synthesizers. All songs on the album were written, performed and produced by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dale Simmons.

Two and half years in the making Radio Silence was completed in February of this year. The album's musical style reflects progressive rock icons of the past while staying firmly rooted in the modern art rock genre. There is a broad range of influences in the music, but echoes of Pink Floyd and David Gilmour can be heard in several of the album's tracks. The cover of the album features stunning works of art by Babak Tafreshi, an award winning photographer working with National Geographic, Sky&Telescope Magazine, and the European Southern Observatory.

Says Simmons about the concept behind the album, “The central theme of the album focuses on the downward spiral and ultimate demise of a man due to the psychological and physical effects of a long term, self-imposed isolation. The songs on the album are a sequence of events, which document his thought processes and eventual deterioration. They are snapshots in time that speak to personal circumstances that drive us to make life-changing decisions...both good and bad. The central figure in the story chooses a solitary life in a remote location only to find that he is unable to come back when he realizes his needs are still unfulfilled by his seclusion. Although the storyline of Radio Silence is set in the near future, it is roughly based on the life events of Sibond Alleman, a recluse, who lived in residence at Chateau d’Uriage in 14th century France. A great deal of the emotional content and lyrics for the album comes from my time spent as an expatriate in Europe and living in Chateau d’Uriage.”

In regards to the guest artists, Simmons explains, “In each case, I asked the guys to do whatever they thought would best serve the song, I gave them complete creative control over their contributions to the recording. These musicians are amazing artists, and I don't think they would have delivered the great performances that they did had I tried to control the process more. That unknown creative variable was critical for me because it made the effort a true collaboration. Chance, chaos and the unknown can produce beautiful results if you can just let it happen. That's more difficult than it sounds”.

Radio Silence has an approximate running time of 44 minutes and was mixed by multi-platinum award winning mixing engineer Steve Hardy. The album was mastered by Andy VanDette, at Engine Room Audio, in New York. Andy's mastering credits are too numerous to list here, but they include David Bowie, Deep Purple, Rush, Beastie Boys, Porcupine Tree (In Absentia and Deadwing) as well as Steven Wilson's first solo project Insurgentes.

About the Exovex sound, Simmons comments, “I have a broad range of influences with great appreciation for the work of artists like Steven Wilson, Peter Gabriel and David Gilmour. There are certainly degrees of influence by those artists in my music…some greater than others”. Simmons is particularly influenced by the progressive rock icon Pink Floyd and reverently reflects Gilmouresque melody and phrasing as a guitarist. As singer, songwriter, guitarist and front man for several bands since the early nineties, Simmons covered a wide spectrum of musical genres ranging from progressive art rock to jazz and funk.

The concept of an “unknown creative variable” led Simmons to conceive the name Exovex. A known function in mathematics can be written as f(x) (pronounced “F of X”). In the f(x) scenario, you know exactly what will happen to the resulting number because that function (f) is defined. On the other hand, if you have x(x) (pronounced “X of X” or “Exovex”) you are dealing with an unknown function (x) so you have no idea what the resulting output will be.

The Exovex debut album Radio Silence was released in March 2015 on iTunes and BitTorrent as a downloadable Bundle. A special limited CD edition is now available exclusively through www.exovex.com.

Buy the Limited Edition CD (begins shipping April 15th)
http://www.dalesimmons.com/store-2/?model_number=XOX0001

For more information:
www.dalesimmons.com
www.exovex.com (redirects to www.dalesimmons.com)

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

Prog Ensemble Exovex Releases Debut Album Radio Silence Featuring Members of Porcupine Tree, NIN, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan

Greenville, SC – The Prog community is buzzing with excitement about the new release by progressive rock ensemble Exovex featuring members of Porcupine Tree, NIN, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan!  Radio Silence is the project's debut album and features Josh Freese (NIN, A Perfect Circle, Devo) and Keith Carlock (Sting, John Meyer, Steely Dan) on drums. The album also showcases two members of Porcupine Tree, Gavin Harrison on drums and Richard Barbieri on keyboards and synthesizers. All songs on the album were written, performed and produced by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dale Simmons.

Two and half years in the making Radio Silence was completed in February of this year. The album's musical style reflects progressive rock icons of the past while staying firmly rooted in the modern art rock genre. There is a broad range of influences in the music, but echoes of Pink Floyd and David Gilmour can be heard in several of the album's tracks. The cover of the album features stunning works of art by Babak Tafreshi, an award winning photographer working with National Geographic, Sky&Telescope Magazine, and the European Southern Observatory.

Says Simmons about the concept behind the album, “The central theme of the album focuses on the downward spiral and ultimate demise of a man due to the psychological and physical effects of a long term, self-imposed isolation. The songs on the album are a sequence of events, which document his thought processes and eventual deterioration. They are snapshots in time that speak to personal circumstances that drive us to make life-changing decisions...both good and bad. The central figure in the story chooses a solitary life in a remote location only to find that he is unable to come back when he realizes his needs are still unfulfilled by his seclusion. Although the storyline of Radio Silence is set in the near future, it is roughly based on the life events of Sibond Alleman, a recluse, who lived in residence at Chateau d’Uriage in 14th century France. A great deal of the emotional content and lyrics for the album comes from my time spent as an expatriate in Europe and living in Chateau d’Uriage.”

In regards to the guest artists, Simmons explains, “In each case, I asked the guys to do whatever they thought would best serve the song, I gave them complete creative control over their contributions to the recording. These musicians are amazing artists, and I don't think they would have delivered the great performances that they did had I tried to control the process more. That unknown creative variable was critical for me because it made the effort a true collaboration. Chance, chaos and the unknown can produce beautiful results if you can just let it happen. That's more difficult than it sounds”.

Radio Silence has an approximate running time of 44 minutes and was mixed by multi-platinum award winning mixing engineer Steve Hardy. The album was mastered by Andy VanDette, at Engine Room Audio, in New York. Andy's mastering credits are too numerous to list here, but they include David Bowie, Deep Purple, Rush, Beastie Boys, Porcupine Tree (In Absentia and Deadwing) as well as Steven Wilson's first solo project Insurgentes.

About the Exovex sound, Simmons comments, “I have a broad range of influences with great appreciation for the work of artists like Steven Wilson, Peter Gabriel and David Gilmour. There are certainly degrees of influence by those artists in my music…some greater than others”. Simmons is particularly influenced by the progressive rock icon Pink Floyd and reverently reflects Gilmouresque melody and phrasing as a guitarist. As singer, songwriter, guitarist and front man for several bands since the early nineties, Simmons covered a wide spectrum of musical genres ranging from progressive art rock to jazz and funk.

The concept of an “unknown creative variable” led Simmons to conceive the name Exovex. A known function in mathematics can be written as f(x) (pronounced “F of X”). In the f(x) scenario, you know exactly what will happen to the resulting number because that function (f) is defined. On the other hand, if you have x(x) (pronounced “X of X” or “Exovex”) you are dealing with an unknown function (x) so you have no idea what the resulting output will be.

The Exovex debut album Radio Silence was released in March 2015 on iTunes and BitTorrent as a downloadable Bundle. A special limited CD edition is now available exclusively through www.exovex.com.

Buy the Limited Edition CD (begins shipping April 15th)
http://www.dalesimmons.com/store-2/?model_number=XOX0001

For more information:
www.dalesimmons.com
www.exovex.com (redirects to www.dalesimmons.com)

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