ALLEN WHITMAN, former bassist with legendary virtuoso guitarist JOE SATRIANI and co-founder of the San Francisco-based influential instrumental surf-rock trio THE MERMEN has announced the digital-only release (through label SQUEAKEY STUDIOS) of a new soundtrack/ambient album “MONOGATARI NO FŪKEI.”
The album incorporates acoustic guitar-driven sonic environments with samples and synth that forwards a pace matching its title: “Landscape Of Stories”. The movement, using field recordings made on a recent visit to Japan, is compelling, occasionally contemplative and often propulsive.
ALLEN WHITMAN, a stalwart of the San Francisco music scene, also credits live performance and musical collaboration with, among many others, the likes of HELIOS CREED, TINY TIM, THE SANDALS, THE INK SPOTS, NELS CLINE, MIKE KENEALLY, CARMINE APPICE, DOROTHY MOSKOWITZ, DJ QUEST, SAMMY HAGAR, TONY MACALPINE, DWEEZIL ZAPPA, STEVE LUKATHER, STEVE VAI, STEVE MORSE and JOHN PETRUCCI.
WHITMAN has also worked extensively in live music for theater, particularly with California-based Theatre of Yugen for live performance in a modern Noh style in San Francisco, New York City, Tokyo and Austin.
“Anahata” is the new collection of compositions by bassist Tim Franklin and his brother keyboardist/Grammy Nominated Producer, Michael Franklin. The Franklin Brothers have performed and recorded with the Who’s Who of music: Brian Wilson, Bruce Hornsby, Joe Walsh, Paul McCartney, Joe Bonamassa, members of the Rolling Stones, Toto, Moody Blues, Yes, Chick Corea, Ian Anderson, Jean Luc Ponty, Rick Derringer, Edgar Winter, Pat Travers, Tower of Power and many others.
“Anahata” is a continuation of Michael Franklin’s cast of thousands production model, as with the highly acclaimed productions Jon Anderson (Yes) “1000 Hands Chapter One” and Robby Steinhardt (Kansas), “Not in Kansas Anymore”.
Featuring collaborations with: Tower of Power, Billy Cohbam, Tommy Calton, Charlie DeChant, Larry Coryell, Danny Jordan, Steady Joseph, Brian Snapp, Steve Walters, Pat Gulotta, Paul Parker and others. The title Anahata was inspired by and is a tribute to, their friend and mentor, Larry Coryell, the legendary “Father of Fusion Guitar”. It has many spiritual meanings, one is, “The Color of Sound”.
“When you come to the anahata, or when your energy is dominant in the anahata, you will start to hear sounds that you could not hear till now”. - Sadhguru
Wally Waller, the renowned bass player of The Pretty Things and accomplished producer, is set to release his first-ever solo album, “Kitchen Rock,” on May 19, 2023. The album will be available in both CD and vinyl formats, with the CD version including additional material not featured on the LP.
“Kitchen Rock” is an enthralling and deeply personal album, born from the raw and intimate solo acoustic sessions that Wally Waller recorded in his kitchen amidst England's 2020 lockdown. This exceptional collection showcases a selection of iconic songs Waller penned alongside his lifelong friend Phil May for The Pretty Things, as well as cherished rock ‘n’ roll classics from his formative years during the golden era of Rock, providing listeners with a truly unique musical journey. Tracks such as “Can’t Help Falling In Love” and “Can’t Judge A Book By Its Cover” are presented in an authentically intimate manner, with Wally’s signature rasp taking center stage.
The album’s charm lies in the authenticity of these home sessions, as Wally effortlessly transitions from solo takes to full ‘one-man’ band productions, demonstrating his undeniable talent and versatility. DDME.net describes the results as “pretty amazing,” highlighting the honesty and special nature of “Kitchen Rock.”
The CD and vinyl release of “Kitchen Rock” will include liner notes featuring song commentary by Wally and lyrics, allowing fans to delve deeper into the album's creation and meaning.
About Wally Waller: Wally Waller, born Alan Edward Waller in Barnehurst, grew up in Bexley, Kent. He began his music career in the early 1960s with Bern Elliott and the Fenmen before joining The Pretty Things in 1967. Waller played bass and wrote songs alongside lead singer Phil May, contributing to albums such as “Emotions,” “S.F. Sorrow,” and “Parachute.” In 1971, he left the band to work as a producer for EMI, collaborating with artists like Barclay James Harvest and Marcus Hook Roll Band. Waller later rejoined The Pretty Things on multiple occasions, contributing to the band’s legacy.
About Think Like A Key Music: Think Like A Key Music is an independent record label devoted to the promotion and production of frequently underrepresented music. The label’s objective is to produce timeless, inspiring, and uplifting music releases for an ever-evolving world. Possessing a wealth of experience and talent, Think Like A Key Music offers a fresh perspective to the music industry by crafting releases that resonate with listeners for years to come. We invite you to embark on a musical journey with us, exploring our diverse catalog, and uncovering new favorites as well as revisiting cherished classics.
Bass virtuosos Alberto Rigoni (solo, BAD As, Kim Bingham, Vivaldi Metal Project etc.) and Michael Manring (solo, Alex Skolnic, Steve Morse etc,) are glad to announce the release of their new album “Grains of Sand” on September 15th.
The album, fully instrumental, spans from prog to fusion, jazz, ambient and features Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, A-Z) on drums. Also, on some tracks the duo invited some bassists as special guests such as Billy Sheehan, Stuart Hamm, Adam Nitti and more.
Alberto Rigoni says: “After the release of ‘Song for Souls’ in memory of my father I said I was going to retire (at least for a bit) but well… I could not resist making an album with one of the best bass players in the world like Michael. Hope you will enjoy it!”
Michael Manring says: “Alberto is a prolific artist with a deep love of the bass. His enthusiasm is inspiring and it’s always a pleasure to work with him.”
“Grains of Sand” will be available in digital, Digipack CD and limited edition tape/cassette! You can pre-order “Grains of Sand” at http://albertorigoni.bandcamp.com
Features guest performers Sammy Hagar, Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, Gregg Bissonette, Gary Husband, Eric Johnson, Bill Frisell, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, Alex Ligertwood, Scott Henderson, Marcus Miller, Ron Carter, Tony Levin, Michael League, Nathan East, Mark King, Bruce Guttridge, Billy Sheehan and Johnny Hiland!
“Jack Songs” produced by John McCracken
Bass icon Jeff Berlin will be releasing a new tribute album to legendary Jack Bruce titled “Jack Songs” on August 2, 2022! Jack Bruce, best known for his work with classic rock group Cream as well as his critically acclaimed solo work passed away in 2014. Jeff Berlin, who has been called “the greatest bass player in the world”, was a personal friend of Jack’s and wanted to record his songs in remembrance of how Jack helped Jeff to find his own musical path.
Says Jeff, “Recording the music of Jack Bruce has been the most emotional recording project of my career. Jack was the greatest bass influence I ever had. In the center of his music were these strange and wonderful bass lines weaving in and out of the key, reaching for resolutions and finding them, again, and again. Jack’s playing was a living evolving improvisation.
Jack was the Alpha and Omega for me. I never would have become the bass player I became if I didn't hear his unfettered improvisations and innovations, his creating a completely original bass tone, and his playing every gig as if it was his last. When he died, I immediately set out to honor him by reviewing his music to choose some of my favorite songs of his and recording them via my own musical vision. As was his legacy of musical brilliance, I wanted this record to be brilliant to honor his spirit. He really means this much to me.
‘Jack Songs’ isn’t a cover CD, not in the literal sense. Except for a couple of tunes from his Cream period (arranged in ways that should surprise people) most of the songs on this CD come from other periods in Jack’s musical life after Cream. Jack’s solo career represented a multitude of musical styles. This recording will be a new revamp of some of those songs, some of the best music that I heard from one of the greatest musicians of the last fifty years.
In arranging the music, I was inspired by Giles Martin’s production of The Beatles ‘Love’ CD. His production work on this CD is fantastic. I tried to follow his example of his fitting various Beatle song quotes from different tunes into each tune by doing a similar thing by combining different Jack songs. Rather than computerized manipulation of music that was already recorded, I arranged the music so that each song on ‘Jack Songs’ would end up as an individual work comprised of various parts of other songs in them. I never would have thought of this without Giles showing me this path.”
Guest performers:
Sammy Hagar, Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, Gregg Bissonette, Gary Husband, Eric Johnson, Bill Frisell, Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, Alex Ligertwood, Scott Henderson, Marcus Miller, Ron Carter, Tony Levin, Michael League, Nathan East, Mark King, Bruce Guttridge, Billy Sheehan and Johnny Hiland!
JACK BRUCE, BASSIST FOR THE ICONIC BAND CREAM, ONCE DESCRIBED JEFF BERLIN AS THE “THE BEST BASS PLAYER I’VE EVER HEARD.”
Photo by Arnie Goodman
For over 40 years, Jeff Berlin has stood as one of the most innovative electric bassists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Known for his one-of-a-kind tone, jaw dropping technique and highly advanced harmonic approaches to the bass, Jeff has been one of the major figures in firmly establishing the electric bass as a solo instrument well deserving of its own distinct place in modern music.
Jeff’s recording and performance credits include a who’s who of jazz and rock. They include: Bill Bruford, Allan Holdsworth, Larry Coryell, Pat Martino, John McLaughlin, Anderson Wakeman Bruford Howe, Frank Zappa, Patrick Moraz and many more.
Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com Jeff Berlin is available for interviews – please contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR
“The Superleggera’s body shape is unique and perfectly balanced. The subtle references to the great Marcello Gandini (Lamborghini Miura, Alfa Montreal) are sublime. The brushed aluminum hardware is entirely bespoke. The bridge is made to my design parameters (as tool free as possible) with Tao’s usual attention to detail and magnificent design aesthetics. The pickups are custom Benedetti.” - Hansford Rowe
American bassist Hansford Rowe began his career in the clubs of New York City. With French drummer Pierre Moerlen, he reformed the jazz-rock group Gong. PM’s Gong is considered one of the great fusion bands of the late 70s. Recording guests included icons like Mick Taylor, Steve Winwood and Didier Lockwood. International touring soon secured Hansford a place among the world’s leading bass players and work with Mike Oldfield, Allan Holdsworth, John Martyn, Biréli Lagrène, La Monte Young, David “Fuze” Fiuczynski, Gary Husband etc Hansford, with Warwick bass guitars and guitarist Jon Catler developed the first Just Intonation bass. He is considered an expert in the use of alternate tuning systems. His last record is Decadence by Gong Expresso.
Tao Guitars was founded by Belgian luthier duo Serge Michiels and John Joveniaux in Brussels in 2004. The boutique builders collaborate closely with customers to perfectly outfit guitars to the individual and since the two luthiers handcraft all of the instruments by themselves they limit their output to just a few instruments per year. Infused by a deep sense of design and inspired by architecture, Italian auto design and Japanese aesthetics, Tao’s work is a perfect balance between functionality, tone and adventurous design. For more on Tao Guitars, please visit: http://www.taoguitars.com/.
HR Superleggera Bass by Tao Guitars
• Lightweight Swamp Ash body • Neck-through of Bosnian maple with a Wenge center (tinted black) • Wenge fingerboard with brushed aluminum fret marker inlays • Custom proprietary Benedetti pickups • Proprietary aircraft-grade brushed aluminum hardware • Circular graining of electronics box aluminum lining • Modified Hipshot lightweight tuners • Proprietary titanium truss rod by KTS Japan (single bar, double action) • Fret and nut material 18% Nickel / Silver (Maillechort – copper, nickel, and zinc) • Paint: Lamborghini Oro Elios • Scale: 34.5” • String spacing at nut: 9mm • String spacing at bridge: 17mm • Fingerboard radius: 14” • Weight: 7.8lbs • Price: 14,000 Euros
Featuring Nathan East, Leland Sklar, Michael Manring, Tony Franklin, Doug Wimbish, Adam Nitti, Lars Lehmann, Cody Wright, Mohini Dey, David Pastorius
Alberto Rigoni's “For The Love of Bass,” simply put, it’s bass heaven.
After the success of his latest prog rock album “Odd Times,” Italian bassist & composer Alberto Rigoni (BAD As, Natural Born Machine, The Italians, Vivaldi Metal Project), now releases his 10th solo album. As the title suggests, the instrumentation is exclusively electric bass, spanning ambient, fusion, jazz and new age styles.
“It has been really challenging but the special guests contributed some gorgeous playing and we are all proud of the result,” says Alberto. “For The Love of Bass” is an all-star bassists album featuring some of the best players anywhere: Nathan East, Leland Sklar, Michael Manring, Tony Franklin, Doug Wimbish, Adam Nitti, Lars Lehmann, Cody Wright, Mohini Dey, David Pastorius,
Are you ready to face a new bass experience?!
Watch Alberto Rigoni's new video for “Masked Souls” feat. Nathan East & Michael Manring:
Other distributors: Disk Union (Japan), MVD (USA), Burning Shed (UK), Plastic Head (UK), Digital Platforms (Apple Music, Spotify etc.)
Tracklist: 1. Drops of Memories (feat. Tony Franklin) 2. In the Loop (feat. David Pastorius) 3. Dreamers (feat. Michael Manring) 4. Alone in the Dark (feat. Doug Wimbish) 5. Paranoia (feat. Cody Wright) 6. The Maze (feat. Mohini Dey) 7. Masked Souls (feat. Nathan East & Michael Manring) 8. Social Distortion (feat. Adam Nitti) 9. Mad World bass cover (feat. Leland Sklar) 10. Killers (feat. Lars Lehmann) 11. Misirlou bass cover (feat. Lars Lehmann) 12. Lost (feat. Adam Nitti)
Biography
Born in 1981, Alberto Rigoni is an Italian bass player and composer, internationally known for his career as a solo artist and as a member of the metal band BAD As, The Italians, Natural Born Machines Lady & THE BASS, co-producer of the Vivaldi Metal Project and member of progressive rock band TwinSpirits (no more active).
Between 2008 and 2020 Alberto has released worldwide 9 solo album (Something Different, Rebirth, Three Wise Monkeys, Overloaded, BASSORAMA, Duality, EvoRevolution, Prog Injection, Odd Times), spanning from progressive rock metal to fusion. His albums also featured legendary musicians such as Kevin Moore (ex Dream Theater), Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Crimson), Marco Minnemann (the Aristocrats), Göran Edman (ex Yngwie Malmsteen), Michael Manring and many others.
Alberto has been featured on the cover of magazines such as Bass Magazine (Japan), Bass Musician Magazine (USA), Bajos Y Bajistas (Spain), Basistas (Poland), TOP BASS (Poland). Moreover, in March 2015 the prestigious Bass Guitar Magazine (UK) released Alberto’s CD anthology called “Into THE BASS.”
Alberto has also recorded for several international artists such as Italian pop singer Alexia and he is also playing bass for Canadian rock singer and songwriter Kim Bingham (ex-Nelly Furtado) and The Italians, sharing stages with artists such as Alan Parson, Suzanne Vega, Jørn Lande, Paul Gilbert, Vinnie Moore and others.
In 2016 founded a new metal band called BADASS (now called BAD As) which released three albums (More Pain More Gain, Midnight Curse and Crucified Society.
On December 15th 2017, Rigoni together with bassist Jeff Hughell (Six Feet Under) released a new studio project called Bassists Alliance. The first album “Crush” featured top notch bassists such as Michael Manring, Adam Nitti, Steve di Giorgio, Colin Edwin, Mark Mitchell, Scott Reeder, Dmitry Lisenko, Brandino BassMaster, Ryan Martini, Leonid Maksimov, Tony Grey.
In 2019 founded a new AOR band called “Natural Born Machine” featuring famous Pink Cream 69 singer David Readman. Their debut album “Human” was released on February 19th 2021 by Pride and Joy Music.
Currently he is also collaborating with famous producer Hiro Furuya (Elton John, Eric Clapton, etc.) as session bassist.
His tenth album “For The Love of Bass” feat. all star bassists such as Nathan East, Lee Sklar, Michael Manring, Doug Wimbish and many others will be released on April 2nd 2021.
Featuring Nathan East, Leland Sklar, Michael Manring, Tony Franklin, Doug Wimbish, Adam Nitti, Lars Lehmann, Cody Wright, Mohini Dey, David Pastorius
Alberto Rigoni's “For The Love of Bass,” simply put, it’s bass heaven.
After the success of his latest prog rock album “Odd Times,” Italian bassist & composer Alberto Rigoni (BAD As, Natural Born Machine, The Italians, Vivaldi Metal Project), now releases his 10th solo album. As the title suggests, the instrumentation is exclusively electric bass, spanning ambient, fusion, jazz and new age styles.
“It has been really challenging but the special guests contributed some gorgeous playing and we are all proud of the result,” says Alberto. “For The Love of Bass” is an all-star bassists album featuring some of the best players anywhere: Nathan East, Leland Sklar, Michael Manring, Tony Franklin, Doug Wimbish, Adam Nitti, Lars Lehmann, Cody Wright, Mohini Dey, David Pastorius,
Are you ready to face a new bass experience?!
Watch Alberto Rigoni's new video for “Masked Souls” feat. Nathan East & Michael Manring:
Other distributors: Disk Union (Japan), MVD (USA), Burning Shed (UK), Plastic Head (UK), Digital Platforms (Apple Music, Spotify etc.)
Tracklist: 1. Drops of Memories (feat. Tony Franklin) 2. In the Loop (feat. David Pastorius) 3. Dreamers (feat. Michael Manring) 4. Alone in the Dark (feat. Doug Wimbish) 5. Paranoia (feat. Cody Wright) 6. The Maze (feat. Mohini Dey) 7. Masked Souls (feat. Nathan East & Michael Manring) 8. Social Distortion (feat. Adam Nitti) 9. Mad World bass cover (feat. Leland Sklar) 10. Killers (feat. Lars Lehmann) 11. Misirlou bass cover (feat. Lars Lehmann) 12. Lost (feat. Adam Nitti)
Biography
Born in 1981, Alberto Rigoni is an Italian bass player and composer, internationally known for his career as a solo artist and as a member of the metal band BAD As, The Italians, Natural Born Machines Lady & THE BASS, co-producer of the Vivaldi Metal Project and member of progressive rock band TwinSpirits (no more active).
Between 2008 and 2020 Alberto has released worldwide 9 solo album (Something Different, Rebirth, Three Wise Monkeys, Overloaded, BASSORAMA, Duality, EvoRevolution, Prog Injection, Odd Times), spanning from progressive rock metal to fusion. His albums also featured legendary musicians such as Kevin Moore (ex Dream Theater), Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Crimson), Marco Minnemann (the Aristocrats), Göran Edman (ex Yngwie Malmsteen), Michael Manring and many others.
Alberto has been featured on the cover of magazines such as Bass Magazine (Japan), Bass Musician Magazine (USA), Bajos Y Bajistas (Spain), Basistas (Poland), TOP BASS (Poland). Moreover, in March 2015 the prestigious Bass Guitar Magazine (UK) released Alberto’s CD anthology called “Into THE BASS.”
Alberto has also recorded for several international artists such as Italian pop singer Alexia and he is also playing bass for Canadian rock singer and songwriter Kim Bingham (ex-Nelly Furtado) and The Italians, sharing stages with artists such as Alan Parson, Suzanne Vega, Jørn Lande, Paul Gilbert, Vinnie Moore and others.
In 2016 founded a new metal band called BADASS (now called BAD As) which released three albums (More Pain More Gain, Midnight Curse and Crucified Society.
On December 15th 2017, Rigoni together with bassist Jeff Hughell (Six Feet Under) released a new studio project called Bassists Alliance. The first album “Crush” featured top notch bassists such as Michael Manring, Adam Nitti, Steve di Giorgio, Colin Edwin, Mark Mitchell, Scott Reeder, Dmitry Lisenko, Brandino BassMaster, Ryan Martini, Leonid Maksimov, Tony Grey.
In 2019 founded a new AOR band called “Natural Born Machine” featuring famous Pink Cream 69 singer David Readman. Their debut album “Human” was released on February 19th 2021 by Pride and Joy Music.
Currently he is also collaborating with famous producer Hiro Furuya (Elton John, Eric Clapton, etc.) as session bassist.
His tenth album “For The Love of Bass” feat. all star bassists such as Nathan East, Lee Sklar, Michael Manring, Doug Wimbish and many others will be released on April 2nd 2021.
Joe Macre is best known as the original bassist for the progressive rock band “Crack The Sky”, whose debut was voted album of the year in Rolling Stone Magazine and is still included in the top 50 progressive rock albums of all time.
The new release from Joe Macre is a collection of ten songs written and recorded at Joe Mac's American Garage. Scheduled to drop March 1, 2021, “Bullet Train” is one of two albums written and recorded by Joe with friends who visited his American Garage studios. Made famous for housing cars, the garage has become a recording studio for musicians all over the world.
This album was written and recorded from 2019 to 2021. Many friends brought their talents to the garage and those shut in during the pandemic were recorded via the internet. The recording was recorded, mixed and mastered by Joe utilizing Pro Tools, of which Joe is an instructor. Visit Joe’s blog at joemacre.com for details on instruments and software incorporated on this album.
Joe Macre was a member of Crack The Sky from 1975–1980 and 2004-2009. Joe has also worked with The B. E. Taylor Group, Wild Cherry, King Friday, Jim Croce, David Sanborn, The Brecker Brothers, Marie Osmond, Grammy Award Artist, Oliver Wakeman (and Eddie Offord Yes), Andy Timmons (Danger Danger), Robert Schindler (Johnny Nash), Madukwu Chinwah (Erikah Badu), Keith Green, Clint Brown, and others.
Joe’s award-winning Mixing/Composing credits in films and commercials include “Monster in Law,” “House of D” and “Fire Down Below.” Super Bowl Tabasco’s “Mosquito”, Corona’s “Ship in a Bottle”, Nickelodeon, Showtime, Ford, McDonald’s, Corona, Hyundai, and Oprah Winfrey to name a few.
2018 Joe began work on his latest project Joe Mac’s American Garage with the debut album, “Bullet Train” featuring a cast of musicians including Chris Elliott and Jerry Oxendine of 86 Bullets, Pete Hewlett (Billy Joel), Jeff Adams (Facedancer), John Palumbo, Rick Witkowski, Jimmy Griffiths, Bobby Hird and Joey D'Amico (Crack The Sky) and many talented friends who visited Joe’s American Garage Studios.
Joe was inducted into the board of directors for SPARS (Society of Professional Audio Recording Services) with Leslie Ann Jones, Audio Director at Skywalker Sound, Kevin Mills at Larrabee West Studios, Tim Butler at Chicago Recording (CRC), Jeff Greenberg at The Village Recorder and Steve Davis at Crawford Communications Atlanta. Joe is an active member of AES and the American Federation of Musicians.
Joe’s second album entitled “The Dream Is Free” is scheduled for a spring release. Also, tours are currently in the works.
Discography: Joe Macre - Bullet Train (2021) Joe Mac’s American Garage (2016) King Friday - Let the song begin (2014) Crack the Sky – The Machine (2010) Crack the Sky – All Access DVD (2009) Crack the Sky – The Sale – (2007) Crack the Sky – Alive and Kickin’ Ass – (2005) Crack the Sky – Alive and Kickin – (2005) The Precious Brothers – The Precious Brothers (2005) Crack the Sky –Dogs From Japan (2004) B.E. Taylor Group – Love Won The Fight (1983) B.E. Taylor Group – Intermission – (1982) Crack the Sky – Classic Crack – (1980) Crack the Sky – Live Sky – (1978) Crack the Sky – Safety in Numbers – (1978) Crack the Sky – Live on WBAB – (1976) Crack the Sky – Animal Notes – (1976) Crack the Sky – Crack the Sky – (1975)
Joe Macre is best known as the original bassist for the progressive rock band “Crack The Sky”, whose debut was voted album of the year in Rolling Stone Magazine and is still included in the top 50 progressive rock albums of all time.
The new release from Joe Macre is a collection of ten songs written and recorded at Joe Mac's American Garage. Scheduled to drop March 1, 2021, “Bullet Train” is one of two albums written and recorded by Joe with friends who visited his American Garage studios. Made famous for housing cars, the garage has become a recording studio for musicians all over the world.
This album was written and recorded from 2019 to 2021. Many friends brought their talents to the garage and those shut in during the pandemic were recorded via the internet. The recording was recorded, mixed and mastered by Joe utilizing Pro Tools, of which Joe is an instructor. Visit Joe’s blog at joemacre.com for details on instruments and software incorporated on this album.
Joe Macre was a member of Crack The Sky from 1975–1980 and 2004-2009. Joe has also worked with The B. E. Taylor Group, Wild Cherry, King Friday, Jim Croce, David Sanborn, The Brecker Brothers, Marie Osmond, Grammy Award Artist, Oliver Wakeman (and Eddie Offord Yes), Andy Timmons (Danger Danger), Robert Schindler (Johnny Nash), Madukwu Chinwah (Erikah Badu), Keith Green, Clint Brown, and others.
Joe’s award-winning Mixing/Composing credits in films and commercials include “Monster in Law,” “House of D” and “Fire Down Below.” Super Bowl Tabasco’s “Mosquito”, Corona’s “Ship in a Bottle”, Nickelodeon, Showtime, Ford, McDonald’s, Corona, Hyundai, and Oprah Winfrey to name a few.
2018 Joe began work on his latest project Joe Mac’s American Garage with the debut album, “Bullet Train” featuring a cast of musicians including Chris Elliott and Jerry Oxendine of 86 Bullets, Pete Hewlett (Billy Joel), Jeff Adams (Facedancer), John Palumbo, Rick Witkowski, Jimmy Griffiths, Bobby Hird and Joey D'Amico (Crack The Sky) and many talented friends who visited Joe’s American Garage Studios.
Joe was inducted into the board of directors for SPARS (Society of Professional Audio Recording Services) with Leslie Ann Jones, Audio Director at Skywalker Sound, Kevin Mills at Larrabee West Studios, Tim Butler at Chicago Recording (CRC), Jeff Greenberg at The Village Recorder and Steve Davis at Crawford Communications Atlanta. Joe is an active member of AES and the American Federation of Musicians.
Joe’s second album entitled “The Dream Is Free” is scheduled for a spring release. Also, tours are currently in the works.
Discography: Joe Macre - Bullet Train (2021) Joe Mac’s American Garage (2016) King Friday - Let the song begin (2014) Crack the Sky – The Machine (2010) Crack the Sky – All Access DVD (2009) Crack the Sky – The Sale – (2007) Crack the Sky – Alive and Kickin’ Ass – (2005) Crack the Sky – Alive and Kickin – (2005) The Precious Brothers – The Precious Brothers (2005) Crack the Sky –Dogs From Japan (2004) B.E. Taylor Group – Love Won The Fight (1983) B.E. Taylor Group – Intermission – (1982) Crack the Sky – Classic Crack – (1980) Crack the Sky – Live Sky – (1978) Crack the Sky – Safety in Numbers – (1978) Crack the Sky – Live on WBAB – (1976) Crack the Sky – Animal Notes – (1976) Crack the Sky – Crack the Sky – (1975)
Welcome to the new revolution in guitar and bass picks, Acoustik Attak (www.acoustikattak.com)!
Frustrated with standard flat picks on the market, Connecticut-based bassist and Chief Product & Technology Officer Mark Labbe, along with New York-based guitarist, Chairman & CEO Michael DePietro, came up with a scientific innovation that relegates those plectrums to Flat Earth status.
Utilizing a customized injection molding process, Attak Piks feature patented raised ridges, diamonds and other patterns on both sides of their lower tip attack zones, resulting in enhanced sound waves regardless of an electric or acoustic player's choice of instrument or strings. The series launches with the new “Ambush” and “Attak” models.
The Ambush pick, with five staircase ridges on its top and underside, can produce enhanced upper-midrange harmonics, distortion, percussive effects and thickened upper-midrange frequencies, especially for rhythm guitarists or bassists.
The namesake Attak Pik features three rows of pyramid-shaped ridges on its top and bottom for clarity and less string noise, especially within mids and high mids, ideal for lead guitarists.
All Attak Piks are designed to achieve a sound previously unheard of - the sonic result of multiple, rather than single, strikes on guitar or bass strings. Labbe and DePietro achieved such dimensional results through an exhaustive scientific research process that included collaboration with internationally-renowned sound engineers and touring guitarists.
“Attak Piks actually brighten the sound of a guitar or bass without having to go through an equalizer,” says Ojai, CA-based producer Jason Mariani of Carbonite Sound studios, whose credits include Kenny Loggins, Joe Bonamassa, Simon Phillips, and a Grammy Award for his work with Mumford & Sons. “It's such a cool and straight-forward design that it's surprising no one thought of it before.”
“I was intrigued that Attak Piks weren't a random shape; that there were actual mathematical elements to them,” says New York City-based electric and acoustic guitarist Brian Goss, who's collaborated with members of Guns N' Roses, The Misfits, and Television. “And what really impressed me was that, after I'd used them for a while and went back to a regular pick, it sounded dull by comparison.”
A line of guitar picks that could perform the same function as effects units and pedals, at a fraction of the cost? With the rollout of additional future designs imminent, Attak Piks are literally raising the standards of the modern guitar and bass pick industry.
Bass legend Tony Newton is releasing a timely new single “Stop That Sh*t” from his newly released acclaimed new album “White Light Collection.” Says Brett David Stewart of JukeboxPodcast, “Lyrically, the single takes aim at those who only want to benefit themselves, often at the cost of those around them and future generations. 'Stop That Sh*t,' Newton croons funkily as he points the finger at a 'bad cancer' of society - those with endless greed.”
Not too long ago, the world of music found a revelation in Tony Newton, a virtuoso hailing from the historic city of Detroit, Michigan. Tony took keen interest in the art of music right from the days of his childhood. At the tender age of 7 years, his passion for music drew him closer to the piano. Although Tony is highly adept in playing keyboards, there is no denying the fact that he has carved out quite a history for himself in the field of electric bass.
Newton officially launched his bass guitar career along with the likes of esteemed blues musicians, such as John Lee Hooker, T-Bone Walker and Little Walter then moving on quickly to Motown. Tony has sealed a permanent berth for himself in the souls and minds of music lovers not only across the USA but also in different parts of the world by recording on over 100 hit recordings with innumerable world-renowned artists, including The Funk Bros., Tony Williams Lifetime, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Supremes, Allan Holdsworth, Gary Moore's G-Force, Robbie Krieger of the Doors, Aretha Franklin, Mamas & Papas, Chuck Berry,& Little Richard, to name a few.
TONY STILL HERE. Scores of musicians, producers and one hit wonders have hit the dust. Tony's music has evolved from the turbulent and riotous sixties and seventies to the current plethora of crises of the 21st century. This legendary talent and rare phenom rose with white lightning speed to the top of American music artistry, to become an iconic trendsetter and innovator. What's different and unique about TN that distinguishes him from other music artists.
His fans say this: “He is a powerful musical history coupled with current innovative sound” “He’s not trying to fit into slots” “He is a trendsetting, artist who forges his own way” “His great song writing and arrangements!” “A fresh new music, doesn't sound like anybody else, is original, Groove, depth of music, honesty, very uplifting” “He is multifaceted, not only musically but personally and professionally in all that he does” “Tony sees the bigger picture and beyond and succeeds in bringing it all together for the betterment of humanity”
Says Newton, “My music tells life stories – Within my music there is a unique and special story for each listener as well as a journey for both you and I. If I can write and perform music which helps you get through a bad time, good time, inspires, or gets you thinking, then I have fulfilled my mission”
“Newton's Motown roots are immediately apparent on 'Stop That Sh*t,' a lengthy nine minute excursion through his thunderous style of bass performance. It has a slick, cinematic style to it that's scored with searing electric guitar, bass, and keys solos, cataclysmic string sections, and waterfalls of bombastic percussion and backing vocals. Much like Motown, it's sharply produced and immensely suave, but never sterile or inauthentic.” - Brett David Stewart (BrettDavidStewart.com) - JukeboxPodcast
“Antonio (Tony) Newton, super genius, will go down in history as one of the most vital path forgers of our era” - Randali, Music Critic - Mean Streets Magazine.
WHAT TONY NEWTON IS DOING NOW!
Along with promoting his new album and single, currently Tony is writing and producing theme song for DNA National Homeless Soulutions! He is also preparing for “RARE” concert series in colleges and theaters across the US in addition to “Personal Enrichment, Technology and Music” speaking events, produced by Seaside Music Management.
Electric Regions is the latest solo album by the current bass player of FOCUS and skilled composer, Udo Pannekeet.
The album features an epic length track, along with new compositions written throughout Udo Pannekeet’s career and recorded here for the first time.
The album features guest appearances by current Focus guitarist Menno Gootjes and a former member of Focus, Eef Albers.
Udo Pannekeet said of the album: “I'm so pleased to finally share this music with you! I worked on it for quite a while. Thanks to the amazing musicians I worked with on the album, it has become more than I could have imagined. I'm humbled by the beautiful reactions I received so far from all over the world!”
The album is the tenth release on the band’s own IN AND OUT OF FOCUS RECORDS, via Cherry Red.
TRACK LISTING:
1. ELECTRIC REGIONS PART ONE 2. INTEGRATION YES 3. LITTLE NURA 4. THE ANTIBES SITUATION 5. COCON COCON
The album is OUT NOW and available via the below links:
Electric Regions is the latest solo album by the current bass player of FOCUS and skilled composer, Udo Pannekeet.
The album features an epic length track, along with new compositions written throughout Udo Pannekeet’s career and recorded here for the first time.
The album features guest appearances by current Focus guitarist Menno Gootjes and a former member of Focus, Eef Albers.
Udo Pannekeet said of the album: “I'm so pleased to finally share this music with you! I worked on it for quite a while. Thanks to the amazing musicians I worked with on the album, it has become more than I could have imagined. I'm humbled by the beautiful reactions I received so far from all over the world!”
The album is the tenth release on the band’s own IN AND OUT OF FOCUS RECORDS, via Cherry Red.
TRACK LISTING:
1. ELECTRIC REGIONS PART ONE
2. INTEGRATION YES
3. LITTLE NURA
4. THE ANTIBES SITUATION
5. COCON COCON
The album is OUT NOW and available via the below links:
France - Less than 2 years after the release of “Karma Obscur,” which had brought him all over Europe (Norway, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Slovaquia, France) for more than 30 shows (NattJazz w/Cory Henry, St Emilion Jazz fest w/Maceo Parker, Boerderij/Zoetermeer, MAI/Nancy, Bordeaux w/Greg Howe…), Shob is back with “Solide,” 11 Fusion/Afro/Funk tracks which will be released on May 3, 2019 (Inouïe distribution/La Route Prod). On April 15, SHOB and his musicians will be playing at London's famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club opening for guitarist Scott Henderson.
“Solide” showcases 11 tracks with Afro/Punk colors (Hostile, Vertige, la Brèche), Hip Hop moods with heavy brass riffs (Totem, Mémoire), or even Electro/80's sounds (Solide). The whole thing led by the powerful and precise drum parts of Morgan Berthet (Myrath, Eths, Kadinja), who also performed on the first two albums.
Rocky and funky guitars are amazingly played by the two newcomers: Johary Rakotondramasy & Jean Lou Siaut, who are also on stage for live performances. There is even some New Orleans color with the really fresh track “Cure,” which reminds one of John Scofield's best moments (guitar played by Christophe Maroye).
Brass section with FM Moreau & PJ Ley gives the album a strong Funk and Afro beat influence, reminiscent of Fela Kuti, Maceo Parker, Trombone shorty or Ibrahim Electric.
Finally, the wild and groovy percussion played by Ludo Lesage bring a real “back to the roots” ambiance.
Except two tracks with vocals (“Solide” w/Célia Marissal & “Totem” w/Lyne & Hugo Senbei), the album is mainly instrumental and leaves a great space for improvisations, with solos on every track. The songs on “Solide” were specifically written to be played live.
Again, it's a really mixed variety of music that SHOB and his friends will be playing on stage from April 2019 through an European tour which will bring them to Germany, UK, Austria, Latvia, Poland and France.
Tour line up: SHOB (bass), Simon Renault (drums), Tony Lavaud (key), Johary Rakotondramasy/JL SIaut (guitar)
SOLIDE tour 2019 : 24/02/19 FR – Bordeaux - Le café brun 16/03/19 FR – Carignan – Salle de la mairie 15/04/19 UK- London – Ronnie Scott 24/04/19 DE – Fûrth – Kofferfabrik 25/04/19 DE – Karlsruhe – Kohi 26/04/19 AT – Hard – Kammgarn 27/04/19 DE – Mainz – Jim 30/04/19 FR – Nancy – MAI 19/07/19 LV – Saulkrasti Jazz Fest 27/07/19 DE – Herzberg - Burg Herzberg Festival
“More Solide than ever” - Bassiste mag
“Best fusion album of the year” - Planet Waves
“Not only for bass players, those who look for groove and various musical colours will be pleased.” - Pavillon 666
“This kind of album is timeless and in 50 years from now, we still can play it, it won't get old at all” - Metal is the Law / Webzine
France - Less than 2 years after the release of “Karma Obscur,” which had brought him all over Europe (Norway, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Slovaquia, France) for more than 30 shows (NattJazz w/Cory Henry, St Emilion Jazz fest w/Maceo Parker, Boerderij/Zoetermeer, MAI/Nancy, Bordeaux w/Greg Howe…), Shob is back with “Solide,” 11 Fusion/Afro/Funk tracks which will be released on May 3, 2019 (Inouïe distribution/La Route Prod). On April 15, SHOB and his musicians will be playing at London's famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club opening for guitarist Scott Henderson.
“Solide” showcases 11 tracks with Afro/Punk colors (Hostile, Vertige, la Brèche), Hip Hop moods with heavy brass riffs (Totem, Mémoire), or even Electro/80's sounds (Solide). The whole thing led by the powerful and precise drum parts of Morgan Berthet (Myrath, Eths, Kadinja), who also performed on the first two albums.
Rocky and funky guitars are amazingly played by the two newcomers: Johary Rakotondramasy & Jean Lou Siaut, who are also on stage for live performances. There is even some New Orleans color with the really fresh track “Cure,” which reminds one of John Scofield's best moments (guitar played by Christophe Maroye).
Brass section with FM Moreau & PJ Ley gives the album a strong Funk and Afro beat influence, reminiscent of Fela Kuti, Maceo Parker, Trombone shorty or Ibrahim Electric.
Finally, the wild and groovy percussion played by Ludo Lesage bring a real “back to the roots” ambiance.
Except two tracks with vocals (“Solide” w/Célia Marissal & “Totem” w/Lyne & Hugo Senbei), the album is mainly instrumental and leaves a great space for improvisations, with solos on every track. The songs on “Solide” were specifically written to be played live.
Again, it's a really mixed variety of music that SHOB and his friends will be playing on stage from April 2019 through an European tour which will bring them to Germany, UK, Austria, Latvia, Poland and France.
Tour line up: SHOB (bass), Simon Renault (drums), Tony Lavaud (key), Johary Rakotondramasy/JL SIaut (guitar)
SOLIDE tour 2019 : 24/02/19 FR – Bordeaux - Le café brun 16/03/19 FR – Carignan – Salle de la mairie 15/04/19 UK- London – Ronnie Scott 24/04/19 DE – Fûrth – Kofferfabrik 25/04/19 DE – Karlsruhe – Kohi 26/04/19 AT – Hard – Kammgarn 27/04/19 DE – Mainz – Jim 30/04/19 FR – Nancy – MAI 19/07/19 LV – Saulkrasti Jazz Fest 27/07/19 DE – Herzberg - Burg Herzberg Festival
“More Solide than ever” - Bassiste mag
“Best fusion album of the year” - Planet Waves
“Not only for bass players, those who look for groove and various musical colours will be pleased.” - Pavillon 666
“This kind of album is timeless and in 50 years from now, we still can play it, it won't get old at all” - Metal is the Law / Webzine
France - Less than 2 years after the release of “Karma Obscur,” which had brought him all over Europe (Norway, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Slovaquia, France) for more than 30 shows (NattJazz w/Cory Henry, St Emilion Jazz fest w/Maceo Parker, Boerderij/Zoetermeer, MAI/Nancy, Bordeaux w/Greg Howe…), Shob is back with “Solide,” 11 Fusion/Afro/Funk tracks which will be released on May 3, 2019 (Inouïe distribution/La Route Prod). On April 15, SHOB and his musicians will be playing at London's famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club opening for guitarist Scott Henderson.
“Solide” showcases 11 tracks with Afro/Punk colors (Hostile, Vertige, la Brèche), Hip Hop moods with heavy brass riffs (Totem, Mémoire), or even Electro/80's sounds (Solide). The whole thing led by the powerful and precise drum parts of Morgan Berthet (Myrath, Eths, Kadinja), who also performed on the first two albums.
Rocky and funky guitars are amazingly played by the two newcomers: Johary Rakotondramasy & Jean Lou Siaut, who are also on stage for live performances. There is even some New Orleans color with the really fresh track “Cure,” which reminds one of John Scofield's best moments (guitar played by Christophe Maroye).
Brass section with FM Moreau & PJ Ley gives the album a strong Funk and Afro beat influence, reminiscent of Fela Kuti, Maceo Parker, Trombone shorty or Ibrahim Electric.
Finally, the wild and groovy percussion played by Ludo Lesage bring a real “back to the roots” ambiance.
Except two tracks with vocals (“Solide” w/Célia Marissal & “Totem” w/Lyne & Hugo Senbei), the album is mainly instrumental and leaves a great space for improvisations, with solos on every track. The songs on “Solide” were specifically written to be played live.
Again, it's a really mixed variety of music that SHOB and his friends will be playing on stage from April 2019 through an European tour which will bring them to Germany, UK, Austria, Latvia, Poland and France.
Tour line up:
SHOB (bass), Simon Renault (drums), Tony Lavaud (key), Johary Rakotondramasy/JL SIaut (guitar)
SOLIDE tour 2019 :
24/02/19 FR – Bordeaux - Le café brun
16/03/19 FR – Carignan – Salle de la mairie
15/04/19 UK- London – Ronnie Scott
24/04/19 DE – Fûrth – Kofferfabrik
25/04/19 DE – Karlsruhe – Kohi
26/04/19 AT – Hard – Kammgarn
27/04/19 DE – Mainz – Jim
30/04/19 FR – Nancy – MAI
19/07/19 LV – Saulkrasti Jazz Fest
27/07/19 DE – Herzberg - Burg Herzberg Festival
“More Solide than ever” - Bassiste mag
“Best fusion album of the year” - Planet Waves
“Not only for bass players, those who look for groove and various musical colours will be pleased.” - Pavillon 666
“This kind of album is timeless and in 50 years from now, we still can play it, it won't get old at all” - Metal is the Law / Webzine
World-class musicians record intimate performance concert blending classical music, jazz, rock, and Indian fusion
During the first week of October 2017, world-class musicians from many genres came together in an ambitious project…to record and perform a full night of music…in a week. The Deep Energy Orchestra were brought together by local composer and fretless bassist, Jason Everett who had been named an “Artist in Residence” by the prestigious non-profit Jack Straw Cultural Center in Seattle, WA. The project captured high-quality audio and video performances of his compositions which are inspired by his love for classical, jazz and Indian Fusion music. The live recording took place at Jack Straw Cultural Center, located in the University District, over a two day period.
Says Jason, “I love instrumental music, and started as a classical musician at eight. I was playing jazz clubs professionally at sixteen, and feel in love with Indian music at eighteen. This project is an exciting culmination of that history and my love for those musical styles.”
Another well-known musician in the project who plays an unusual instrument is Trey Gunn, who is best known for his work with King Crimson and the Security Project. “I was really excited to play with Trey…we are both bassists with extended range instruments who play melodically; so we were able to trade off roles as lead and rhythm players,” explained Jason. “Trey is really exciting to watch as he is performing on his Warr Guitar which is a 12-string instrument that he plays almost like a piano.”
“I was surprised how easily these pieces flowed out of us when rehearsing and recording. It is a clear testament to Jason's writing that music this challenging felt so natural.” - Trey Gunn
Also featured on the album is Indian musician Selvaganesh, best known for his work with Shakti, John McLaughlin and Jonas Helborg, who plays kanjira and his custom drum kit.
“It is my pleasure to be part of Deep Energy Orchestra, everyone was flying, especially Trey! I had a great time playing the music and was impressed with Jason’s pieces, especially those in odd-meters. This is one of my favourite groups!” - Selvaganesh
More-strings-than-usual might be a theme for this group as lead violinist Radhika Iyer, from San Francisco played her seven-string electric violin and Everett himself is known for his unique seven-string fretless bass. Other local musicians who rounded out the sound included tabla player Anil Prasad, and classical musicians, Rachel Nesvig on violin, Aleida Gehrels on viola, and Phil Hirschi on cello.
Jason Everett, Trey Gunn & Selvaganesh
Jason Everett (aka Mister E) is a performer, composer, and producer who plays a variety of stringed and percussive instruments with his primary instruments being his seven-string fretless bass and acoustic six-string bass. Jason attended Northern Arizona University on a full scholarship for bassoon and started playing jazz professionally at sixteen years old.
Jason has played music outside of the mainstream for most of his career including with the avant-garde space-jazz ensemble, Little Green Men; Flamenco fusion groups, Machete’, Deseo Carmin, and Acoustic Fantasy; world fusion groups, Avaaza, Tarana, and Andre Feriante; and Kirtan artists, Gina Sala’ and Girish. Jason has also been recently performing and recording with Bay Area world jazz fusion groups, Facing East and Ancient Future. Jason has created his own groups including Taal Maya, a Shakti inspired Indian fusion project and Pandamonium, which is described as “Prog Rock Jazz Funk.”
“Jason Everett's intonation on his signature 7-string fretless bass is exemplary, and he is a well-spring of melodies and musical ideas. Keep your eyes and ears out for Jason Everett aka Mister E!” - Stu Hamm
Jason's recording work has recently included producing a four-movement, 20-minute composition called “Moksha: The Elimination of All Duality” that features world-class artists including Selvaganesh (Shakti, Masters of Percussion), Fareed Haque (director of Jazz Studies at Northern Illinois University), Suhail Yusuf Khan, Radhakrisna Neyvili, Vishal Nagar, and Ujwal Nagar.
Jason is also performing as a solo bass artist and has recently performed at NAMM (the National Association of Music Manufacturers) convention in LA, the International Solo Bass Competition hosted by bass amplifier manufacturer, Phil Jones Bass in NY, and as a headliner for Bass Bash in Denver, CO for the last several years.
Finally, Jason was name an Artist in Residence by Seattle non-profit, Jack Straw Cultural Center for 2017 and recorded his new album, “Playing With Fire” which is due for release October 2018 and has recently started a new collaboration with the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra who have commissioned Jason to arrange his music from the “Playing With Fire” album for their full chamber orchestra. Jason is an endorsed artist for Bartolini Pickups, Kalium Strings and Conklin Guitars, who have created a signature model instrument for Jason called, the “OM Bass.”
“Jason's impressive bass work will dazzle, but his playing transcends the instrument to become a pure source of expression. His compositions are equally full of wonder and atmosphere for a sonic journey. A top-notch musician!” - Kevin Johnson No Treble Bass Magazine
In closing Jason has this to impart, “My music is a combination of the styles that move me. Classical, Jazz, Groove, Funk, Prog Rock, and World music (particularly Indian and Flamenco). Music is a language and it is always amazing when musicians from different genres and training can come together to create something new, unique and beautiful. My music is nearly always instrumental, and often in odd-meters.”
