5/09/2025

Music Legends Strawbs To Release 'Magic From the Moon' On Blu-ray June 9, 2025

British music legends Strawbs will be releasing “Magic From the Moon” on Blu-ray on June 9, 2025. A spectacular acoustic and symphonic concert from the Strawbs 40th Anniversary Show, this release showcases the acoustic talents of the Strawbs. The set list covers many milestones over their long career with the Strawbs performing songs from their 1969 self-titled debut album to the Dancing to the Devil's Beat album from 2009.

Special guest Sonja Kristina joins the Strawbs for four of the songs, singing Sandy Denny’s parts. This unique concert also features the closing extravaganza with the legendary Robert Kirby, along with members of the Royal Artillery Orchestra. The full contingent of Electric Strawbs (Dave Cousins, Rod Coombes, Dave Lambert, Chas Cronk, John Ford and Oliver Wakeman) faithfully recreate some of the great classics in the Strawbs vast repertoire.

The Blu-ray also features an interview with Robert Kirby. Kirby discusses “David’s brilliant attitude towards music”, his time in the Strawbs, and working for the band. Rehearsal footage of the conductor and the orchestra is also included.

This unique show, including the performances which feature Sonja Kristina, has never been released on home video since the concert was performed in 2009. Having only been seen by those in attendance at the show, this release promises to be of great interest among Strawbs fans across the globe.

Set List:
1. Simple Visions (Deep Cuts, 1976)
2. Josephine for Better or for Worse (Dragonfly, 1970)
3. Copenhagen (Dancing to the Devil's Beat, 2009)
4. Cold Steel (Deja Fou, 2004)
5. Sail Away to the Sea (Strawberry Music Sampler, 1969)
6. On My Way (All Our Own Work, 1973)
7. All I Need is You (Strawberry Music Sampler, 1969)
8. Tell Me What You See in Me (The Strawbs, 1969)
9. Evergreen (Baroque and Roll, 2001)
10. The River (Bursting at the Seams, 1973)
11. Down By the Sea (Bursting at the Seams, 1973)
12. Heavy Disguise (Grave New World, 1972)
13. Where Silent Shadows Fall (Dancing to the Devil's Beat, 2009)

Strawbs official website: https://strawbsweb.co.uk/

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

5/08/2025

Interview With Jim Abrahams - Surf Rally For Cali: Fire Relief, by Various Artists

I had a great conversation with Jim Abrahams, the lead guitar player of the surf instrumental band The Breakers. We discussed all the work that he and his friends did for the Surf Rally For Cali: Fire Relief Compilation, featuring various artists.



5/02/2025

Featured Contempoary Instrumental Track: Samer Fanek-Fleeting Struggle

Samer Fanek’s latest single release, “Fleeting Struggle,” is a breath of fresh air. The sounds he creates on the keyboards are full of energetic color and moving scenic sounds.

 

Samer commented: “Fleeting Struggle” is the first in a series of singles leading up to my upcoming album (Forever Elsewhere). It’s about those brief and intense moments of emotional turmoil that are powerful yet pass quickly.

 

Based on what Samer had to say about the music, I can hear what he describes. The music is fast-moving and very cinematic, painting that emotional picture in your mind as you listen.

 

The added orchestrations give it an extra push into your consciousness while thinking about what he said. Even though the music is about struggle, I can see how one could hear positive energy in it, regardless. With his talented fingers, he says, “There is hope ahead, have faith.”

 

I love that about his music. Samer is an extraordinarily talented musical visionary who deserves attention for his past and current work.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder

May 2, 2025

Samer Fanek is an award-winning pianist, composer, and producer of instrumental piano music. He pursues a lifelong dream of building genuine connections with listeners worldwide by offering songs that he hopes will become soundtracks to meaningful moments in their lives. In his music, he strives to express powerful emotions, inviting listeners to feel the stories and sentiments he pours into each song through the lens of their own experiences, whether heard live in concert or through his recorded albums…MORE…

 


The Moody Blues’ John Lodge to Launch New Tour – Dates Announced for July 2025!

Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’ Tour – Featuring Moody Blues Songs from the Classic Albums

John Lodge, legendary bass player, songwriter and vocalist of The Moody Blues, and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, has announced he will be back on the road with an electrifying new show titled ‘Singer in a Rock and Roll Band’!

Following the phenomenal success of his ‘Days of Future Passed’ show over the last two years, John wanted to now go back to basics… what are the songs that he loved performing in the Moody Blues? How could he bring these enduring songs to audiences, staying true to the original sound, yet breathing new life into them? These songs might have been discovered by listeners on release, or by newer generations later, but whenever they first heard them, they made an indelible impression on them. John’s task was clear, he wanted to recreate the sound and the feel of a Moody Blues show of the past, but at the same time bring in the incredible musicianship of his band, and his experience of performing these songs for over 50 years, to give these classic songs that extra dash of magic.

When John wrote the hit single ‘Singer’ in 1972 it was because people were looking to him to change the world… this composition replied that he’s just a singer in a rock and roll band! But his message went on - John wanted everyone to be part of the music, and if you’ve ever experienced one of John’s shows you will know how true this is. The music and camaraderie will lift you up, it may not change the world, but it might make it a little brighter…

This incredible new show will feature songs from ‘the core seven albums’ including ‘Days of Future Passed’, Seventh Sojourn, and more, plus ‘Octave’ and the triple platinum selling album ‘Long Distance Voyager.  It will bring together some of the captivating moments of his ‘Days of Future Passed’ show, all of John’s hits with the Moodies, and, of course, tributes to all his bandmates. This truly will be a show of Moodies Magic and ‘a trip worth taking and remembering’! (Tony Violanti review of John’s show March 24, 2025)

Together with Jon Davison of YES and his 10,000 Light Years Band, John will lovingly recreate ‘I’m Just a Singer (in a Rock and Roll Band)’, ‘Nights in White Satin’, ‘Ride my See-Saw’, ‘Gemini Dream’, ‘Tuesday Afternoon’, ‘The Voice’, ‘Steppin’ in Slide Zone’, ‘Isn’t Life Strange’ and much more. Also, experience deep cuts from these classic albums, and, together with the electrifying video and lights, be taken on a journey through time.

The tour kicks off on July 19th at the Vogel in New Jersey, and continues through to Des Plaines, IL on August 7th.

Limited VIP merch packages will also be available, go to: https://www.johnlodge.com/tour.


photo by Dana Grubb

Following a stroke at the end of 2023, John has gone from strength to strength, driven by his love for this music, and his deeply held desire to continue to share it with the fans. The critically acclaimed shows in July and November 2024 are testament to his passion and commitment, and as John says, his hope is that people leave with a little bit of joy around them.

It’s been an absolute pleasure performing Days in its entirety over the last couple of years, but I’m so excited about our new show… there are a few songs I’ve not performed before that I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and many of our classic songs seem to have taken on a new meaning following health challenges, so I hope everyone will enjoy continuing on this journey with me. I’m doing great, and I just love to share this music with the fans. I look out and see familiar faces, and occasionally some new ones, and I love what we’ve shared over so many decades. Thank you for keeping the faith.”

Check out the tour video here: https://youtu.be/l_32O8687sw

This incredible new show will also be in support of John’s new EP ‘Love Conquers All’ out now. Signed copies are also available including limited edition vinyl.

For USA (including the limited edition 180g violet vinyl, handsigned by John): https://shop.johnlodge.com

For UK (including the limited edition 180g blue vinyl with a special handsigned insert): https://burningshed.com/store/john-lodge_store

Check out the video for ‘Whispering Angels’ here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XErh5-eeoIU

If you love The Moody Blues music, then you really need to checkout John live. He and the band put on a great show!’

John Lodge is bass guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for the iconic Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame 2018 inductees, The Moody Blues. Songwriter of such mega Moody Blues hits from “Ride My See-Saw,” to “I’m Just A Singer (In A Rock and Roll Band),” “Isn’t Life Strange” and many more.  Lodge has been performing and recording with The Moody Blues for more than five decades, selling in excess of 70 million albums, as well as releasing his three solo albums ‘Natural Avenue’,’10,000 Light Years Ago’ and ‘B Yond’, plus his new EP ‘Love Conquers All’.  Lodge has been voted one of the “10 most influential bass players on the planet,” and has been the recipient of many awards, including ASCAP (American Society of Composers and Publishers), an Ivor Novello Award, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Prog Magazine, to name just a few.

USA Dates
July 19 The Vogel, Red Bank, NJ
July 20 Newton Theatre, Newton, NJ
July 23 Scottish Rite Auditorium, Collingswood, NJ
July 24 Wind Creek Casino, Bethlehem, PA (on Sale May 2nd)
July 26 Lynn Auditorium, Lynn, MA
July 27 Infinity Hall, Hartford, CT
July 29 Flying Monkey, Plymouth, NH
July 30 JPT Film & Event Center, Newport, RI
Aug 1 MCL Pavilion, Newport, KY
Aug 2 Agora, Cleveland, OH
Aug 6 Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL
Aug 7 Des Plaines Theater, Des Plaines, IL

All dates at www.johnlodge.com/tour

For further information:
https://www.johnlodge.com/
https://www.facebook.com/johnlodgemusic/
https://twitter.com/johnlodgemusic
https://www.instagram.com/johnlodgemusic/
https://www.youtube.com/c/johnlodgemusic

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

4/29/2025

Ghost-Skeletá Review-Vinyl LP

After months of build-up by design, the anticipation is over. Ghost has released Skeletá. I listened to the clear black and purple splatter LP version.

I have watched Tobias Forge (different iterations of Papa) and his musicians on a successful journey. It has been one of musical development and, at times, some surprises. I also appreciate how Tobias has evolved his characters and ghouls with each album. It's a continual evolution. He has mastered combining audio and visual elements into one compelling package, which recalls acts like Alice Cooper, Kiss, etc.

Skeletá is an excellent recording and one that I am sure will continue to grow on me with each listen. When I get an album by Ghost, particularly starting with Prequelle, I cannot stop listening. I guess that is not bad; it's rare for me to do that. So, in essence, that is saying that their music hooks me and holds on. I imagine that would be the goal of any artist putting out their music.

Skeletá, with its highly advanced and complex sound, is a treat for music fans who appreciate intricate compositions. The album's incorporation of classic rock influences, the addition of synth or gentle keys, and the unexpected twists and turns make for an absorbing and intellectually stimulating listen. The significant change in Ghost's sound began with Prequelle and has gradually progressed, incorporating several elements without losing its harder edge.

Fans who appreciate the heavier, darker, satanic Ghost with earlier albums will likely find this release more polished and complex, and it is; however, Papa has kept intact the central theme that Lucifer, Satan, the Devil, the evil one, the one with many names, etc., is his god. It's woven throughout the lyrics and considered love and light. That is the singer's viewpoint; you can take from that what you wish and leave the rest. Everyone believes in something; if it helps you, so be it. I know one thing for sure: the music is mesmerizing.

This leader, the newest version, Papa V Perpetua, the creator of Ghost, takes their music to new heights and complexities, with different twists to keep it interesting from start to finish. And that is precisely what happens in the 10 tracks offered on this LP. 

From a lyrical standpoint, Skeletá presents two distinct voices. One is love and light (although from a place that is not typically spiritual), while the other, more characteristic of Ghost's content, is dark and satanic. This lyrical duality may throw off or confuse some listeners with specific expectations, but it also invites them to interpret and appreciate the points from both voices. It's a musical journey that leads the listener to the spiritual and warm (whatever definition that may be personally), or the dark places of the heart, where the devil roams and leads those astray, or to the light.

Side A begins with "Peacefield." It starts softly, then a melodic guitar (which heavily populates this album) joins in. Tobias sings, "We all need something to believe in when it's over (assuming he is talking about death), until it's over...." A good guitar solo enters the mix (again, something you hear often!). The music arrives at a point where it all comes together based on their strengths, using the melodicism and heavier riffs with just the right mixture.

"Lachryma" has a heavier sound and darker subject matter. It switches to melodic guitar runs and then goes back again. I have become accustomed to this formula of their compositions, except each successive release gets a little more interesting and intricate, as this song shows.

When I first heard "Satanized," I found it fascinating. The title is meant to make you hear and see the word "sanitized" initially. This, in essence, mocks the church and all its hypocrisies. There is a great bass line playing as the words like "A demonic possession like never before" ring out with the power of the music. The drumming is exceptional throughout this recording, and the bass becomes a partner to be consistently counted on. Here is another example of how they have streamlined a song without giving up the heavy metal core. Most excellent!

"Guiding Lights" features a nice keyboard that starts with an acoustic guitar. The words pour out of the singer's soul, such as "The road that leads to nowhere is long; those that go there are lost." There is another build-up here to a fine guitar run. Is the light leading them down the hopeless path? Who is light? Is it God? The Devil? Another false prophet? You must decide how it may or may not apply to your life. The bottom line here is that it is a great track!

"De Profundus Borealis" introduces a piano and some lovely playing to set the initial mood, marking a departure from the previous tracks. Then, the explosion we love about Ghost roars in. The instruments enter loudly, and the playing gets fast and furious as the words are food for thought, like "See the palace full of frozen tears." The musicianship is precise, but a classic rock influence creeps in, and at one point, a guitar passage reminds me of Iron Maiden. The album's musical diversity, from the piano to the classic rock influence, keeps the listener engaged, and side A closes out on a high note.

Side B kicks off with "Cenotaph." It begins very differently from all the previous tracks. Then the chugging, meaty guitar lines fill all the space as the bass and drums keep steady and strong. The classic rock sound is all around the peripheral as the keys come sprinkling down like drops of rain. The opposing forces play off each other (musically) for a symphony of dark beauty. Some lyrics are full of romanticism, such as "Wherever I go, you are always there riding right next to me." Again, your interpretations may differ regarding the lyrical prose offered for digestion.

"Missilia Amori" uses a cool guitar riff dissimilar to anything else thus far to get your attention. The rhythm section continues to be amazing, which I feel is the key foundational aspect of this music. The keys once again provide a lighter layer; however, do not be misled by that subtlety, as the words bite with anger like "Wherever you may hide away, I'm gonna hunt you down." The literal crescendo of the musical once again puts the spotlight on the completeness of their musical talents at every position.

"Marks of The Evil One" is Ghost at their core best. It starts strongly at the outset. And you would not expect anything less, considering the title. Some excellent drums, along with the bass, drive this and keep time beautifully. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse of death and destruction become part of the song as they serve as the messengers and deliverers of the wrath of the evil one. Once again, we have the keys to add that layer to make their sound more crossover accessible, regardless of the lyrics. This one has an ultra-cool synth sound, a great guitar solo, and the locomotive rhythm section that gets it across the finish line.

"Umbra" may be the biggest surprise on the entire album. The way it starts with an unusual synth and keys, beginning things, reminded me of Pink Floyd or bands with similar sounds. Things change quickly as their sound takes over with a cowbell! (Where is Leslie West and "Mississippi Queen!") The guitar sounds dirty as he sings, "In the shadows, death becomes your lover." It doesn't get much darker than that. 

Things move along quickly, and the music is loaded with hooks. Tobias sings in his lower register, then switches to the higher end once the music changes tempo. He is a gifted vocalist. Significant changes happen as the keys and guitars roll along with the bottom end. This was very different and quite good, and it was an excellent example of how far this music has come over the years. It showcases their ability to stretch out and take a chance, resulting in excellence.

"Excelsis" surprisingly closes the album softly with an acoustic guitar, with lyrics like "Come with me to the rainbow's end" and "Come with me to the holy land." Wait, this is Ghost? Indeed, it is, and as far as the singer is concerned, his picture of the rainbow's end is his own, as it will be yours based on your thought process as the words hit home (I don’t believe the end is heaven based on the lyrics and theme throughout this album).  

A Ghost ballad to end a heavy metal and rock album? Yes, it ends this way, leaving you scratching your head. But wait, the music gets to another level if you hang around with those excellent melodic guitars weaving their spell. The final words are "I am afraid of eternity, too." So, there you go, more food for thought.

What does eternity look like for Tobias Forge or you?

Ghost music is exhilarating and breathtaking on Skeletá. Mastermind Tobias Forge is cerebral with his lyrics, and the music has gained more intricacies with time. After considering every factor, I would say that Ghost has progressed with every release, and this is their best so far.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder


Tracks

Side A:

1. Peacefield

2. Lachryma

3. Satanized

4. Guiding Lights

5. De Profundus Borealis

Side B:

1. Cenotaph

2. Missilia Amori

3. Marks of The Evil One

4. Umbra

5. Excelsis