Showing posts with label Blues. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blues. Show all posts

10/30/2019

Blues-Rock Guitarist Chantel McGregor Releases New Live Album "Bury’d Alive"


Chantel McGregor has released her highly anticipated new live album “Bury'd Alive” which is available on CD and digital download.

Chantel and her band recorded “Bury'd Alive” at the prestigious venue, The Apex in Bury St Edmunds, UK on the 29th of March 2019. Being one of Chantel's favourite venues, The Apex seemed the obvious place to record her first live album.

“Bury'd Alive” brings together tracks from her first two albums, “Lose Control” and “Like No Other”, together with crowd favourite, the anthemic track “April” which is only available on this album, all played by a power trio, with no studio trickery or multiple night recordings, this is exactly the excitement and performance as it was on the night!

Produced, mixed and mastered by Wayne Proctor of House of Tone at Superfly Studios, the album was sure to sound incredible and capture the night as it was, a night and album to remember.

Watch the album preview here: 


About Chantel McGregor:
'Up next was someone I have seen before, Yorkshire’s very own Chantel McGregor. Her shy, “girl next door”, off stage persona combined with her soft spoken Yorkshire accent belie the power and energy of her performance on stage. Chantel didn’t become a professional musician by accident.

She’s been performing live gigs since the age of 12, schooled at a music college and achieved a First Class Honours Degree in Popular Music. Along with her current band members, Colin Sutton on bass and Thom Gardner on drums, they form an awesome power trio playing an eclectic mix of blues based tunes, composed by Chantel, ranging from traditional blues numbers complimented perfectly by the purity of her singing voice, to a much more raunchy blues rock style.

And boy, can that girl play guitar! With several complicated solos she proved that she can shred with the best of them as her and her guitar became one. I know that there were plenty of people there at the Blues Stage to see Ritchie Kotzen later that day, Chantel included, however I was left completely mesmerised and for me, Chantel was guitarist of the festival.'

For more information: https://www.chantelmcgregor.com/

To purchase Chantel McGregor's “Bury'd Alive”:
https://www.chantelmcgregor.com/
Amazon EU - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Buryd-Alive-Chantel-McGregor/dp/B07X58NH4J/ref=sr_1_1
Amazon USA - https://www.amazon.com/Buryd-Alive-Chantel-McGregor/dp/B07X58NH4J/ref=sr_1_1
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/gb/album/buryd-alive/1480855158

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

10/15/2019

Concert Review: Eric Gales Live At The Stationery Factory In Dalton, Massachusetts

Eric Gales In Concert At The Stationery Factory In Dalton, Mass.
With The BTUs
October 13, 2019


Dalton, Massachusetts got to witness one of the best guitar players on the planet cut loose last night. Eric Gales (AKA Raw Dawg), was on stage at the Stationery Factory, one of the newer venues in the Berkshires that I have become very grateful for. Now we have another old mill repurposed for many different uses. The building holds more than just a stage, it actually has five stages. They have performances in the Gallery, the North Room, Honor Roll Studios and at the Shire. The concert was on the main stage this evening. It also includes several businesses including a restaurant and distillery where they make Vodka and provide the concert with a nice jug of pristine water for its patrons. Which is free by the way.

The night opened with local band the BTUs to warm up the crowd. They provided an excellent set of blues-rock. You could tell they were a seasoned band that had their chops down straight away. They feature two slick guitar players that can sing up a storm and an animated keyboard player that can sing as well. To round off their band there is a decidedly younger member behind the drum kit that is always smiling. The keyboard player provided the bass with the bottom tier of his keyboard and the actual keyboard sounds with the top tier. That is quite the trick I must say!

After a short break and breakdown of the first act, we all got ready for Eric Gales. I remember getting Eric’s very first release back in the early ’90s. From that point, I did not pursue his output, a big mistake on my behalf. He now has 18 albums out! The latest release is titled Bookends. Seeing him lived showed what I was missing all these years! 

Eric is a new man. With the help of his dedicated wife LaDonna he battled his demons and kicked a long-standing drug addiction. He is very upfront about his life and feelings and man does it ever come pouring out of him through his music! He has a killer rhythm section, a bass player and two percussionists, one being LaDonna, who has a beautiful voice by the way. It is a family united, as their lovely daughter attends the merch table as well.

The venue and stage are very personal and up close, there is not a bad seat in the house, with comfortable chairs provided of course. The capacity is 500 although there was not that many in attendance. Regardless of how many folks attended there was enough of us to make some noise in response to Eric’s amazing performance. The crowd was well behaved, appreciative, and respectful of each other. I had to mention that because it's not always that way. 

Eric is a very animated and energetic performer and he plays a guitar left-handed with upside-down strings, just like that other great six-string bender named Hendrix. I have heard people say he is like a cross between Hendrix and Stevie Ray, which I could not argue. He is making a lot of headway to superstardom with his album Bookends debuting at #1 on the Billboard charts when it was released on Mascot Records (one of my favorite labels). And with Joe Bonamassa (another great blues guitarist) backing him and playing the album on his Sirius radio channel, he is finally getting some well-deserved attention.

Any good music, rock, in particular, is blues-based. Eric takes a little bit of everything - blues, rock, jazz, funk, and that creates his sound. He has a definitive harder edge to his faster moving songs and an excellent voice to match. I thought of the great Albert Collins more than once while listening to him. That is a great compliment, as Albert was the master of the telecaster.

Eric played many of the tracks off his new release including “Southpaw Serenade,” “How Do I Get You” and the matter of fact “It Just Beez That Way,” which everyone on stage was wearing on their T-Shirts, and available at the merch table. Eric got the crowd chanting that phrase as well. He owns that stage and the audience loved him.

The other thing I appreciated besides the great music was the interaction of the band members with Eric and how they watched all his cues. In particular, was the husband and wife exchanges, you can tell they really love each other and are enjoying every second of their time together on stage.

If you take a look at where Eric has performed this year it is a list of Blues Festivals all over the world. That does not surprise me in the least. He is one of the top guitar players of the genre in the world today and it was a pleasure to see him perform live and meet with him after the show.

Eric Gales is a premier act that is a must-see if you either love the blues or can appreciate a great guitar player. If that is the case, then you need to get your tickets and catch a show.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 14, 2019

Founder of:

Review Provided By MuzikMan.net

7/03/2019

Concert Review: Tailwinds Music Festival In Wappinger Falls New York

Tailwinds Music Festival In Wappinger Falls New York
June 29, 2019

FEATURING: The Chris Robinson Brotherhood
Geoff Tate's Operation: Mindcrime
Black Stone Cherry
Kings X
Sass Jordan



I often wondered what it would be like to sit in on all-day/all-night rock concert. I have been to my share of concerts over the years and saw as many as 4 bands performing short sets leading up to the headliner.  But to leave at 7 am, drive 3 hours and return home at 3 am is another matter. That is one long day. I found out that is was well worth it by the time it was all over.

The first band came on at noon, one of the three local warm-ups preceding Sass Jordan. The Jason Gisser Band was excellent and the lead singer, the namesake of the band, has one fantastic voice. He reminded me of Lenny Kravitz quite a bit actually, and as far as I am concerned that is a good thing! After that set The Playback kept things going with their energized alternative rock with a punk edge then Big Guns came on to close out the warm-up sessions. They were very good as well and the lead singer was certainly a big gun himself, I thought of the first lead singer of Marillion, the gargantuan Fish. 

After the set breakdown and rebuild, Sass Jordan came on stage to kick it up a notch. The lady has been around for several years with many releases available however I never got into her music. After hearing her I am scratching my head as to why I never did. She is a great performer with just enough edge to her voice to compliment the super tight rockin’ band that supports her. After enjoying her entire set, I felt compelled to start looking into her back catalog.

Time was ticking away on this beautiful day. The threat of rain was there but the storm headed our way turned around and changed direction. The music gods were with us as the sky cleared into blue and the sun was blazing. After a few hours of that sun beating down on you, a break was necessary. And once again we were blessed with a reprieve as a cloud cover moved in and blocked out those rays. Mr. Sun would return much later in the day and provide us with a spectacular blend of colors over the mountains. 



Next up was Doug Pinnick’s Kings X. His music is different and he has a distinct vocal style that takes a bit of getting used to if you are not familiar with the music. I am familiar and actually enjoy his vocal style. The music can be a very heavy prog metal to a rock-blues edge sound. One thing you can count on in the songs are some interesting time changes. All the guitar players out there would be hard-pressed to duplicate what is being produced. Pinnick’s long slender frame and extremely long arms allow him to carry his bass down to his knees. He plays it like a lead guitar. Kings X has a large catalog of music to check out and enjoy and the concert was a taste of what there is to offer the “progressive” listeners.

By this point, the audience began moving closer to the stage and it continued to grow but not to the point of pushing us out of our seats (lawn chairs). We were about 10ft back from the stage, a perfect range to capture all the sounds and vocals. I was told at the gate they sold 1,500 tickets but it sure did not look like that many people. The capacity is 5,000 so the response to this event was pretty pathetic. It supported women’s breast cancer and the artists that were on stage were fantastic, all of them.

Now for one of the main events for many that came. Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime. Many people left after he performed which was a shame because there was more great music to come. Geoff was the voice of Queensryche and without him, they should not be bearing that name it’s as simple as that. Just my opinion on the matter. In any event, Geoff sounds fantastic and his command of the stage keeps your eyes glued right on him. He is not only singing he is playing the part of the main character in the story. The tour he and his excellent band are on this year is to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of that classic progressive metal album Operation: Mindcrime.

At one point during the performance, this beautiful blonde girl comes out on stage to sing with Geoff. I had no idea who she was. It was Geoff’s daughter Emily. She also was holding down the fort at the band’s merch table. Later on, I stopped by to say hello and asked her to make sure she told her dad that I thought that was the best Queensryche show I have ever seen. That was number 3 for me. I thought that would put a smile on his face.

Tate is as energetic and vibrant as ever and the band is tight and spot on. Basically, everything necessary to perform such a classic and musically difficult to perform recording. With twin guitars blazing away and a rhythm section that you can feel pounding right through your chest, it’s just what the doctor ordered for Mr. Tate to be in his best form. I took more pictures of that performance than any of the entire day and evening. In fact, I know CRB was the headliner but Geoff’s band could have easily been as well. No disrespect to CRB, they are fantastic, but as far as the level of musicianship and precision delivery, they are equals without question. 

After that incredible performance, what more could a music lover ask for right? Well, how about the totally kick-ass Black Stone Cherry? Now here is a band that I knew of and I never pursued their music. After hearing their performance, I am totally hooked. They put on an amazing show and it rocked the house down. I went to the local vinyl LP vendor there and grabbed the only copy of their latest release Family Tree. I spoke to one of their fans on the way to the lovely porta-potties and he informed me that was their best album and they had just played 5 songs for us. I was sold!  Anyone that likes to rock would love this band I have no doubt. For those music fans that left early, which was foolish, you missed a band in its prime cranking it out.

Now after hearing all of that loud and raucous music, I think we were all ready for something different, some tunes with a warmer blues, funky rock sound. That would be provided by The Chris Robinson Brotherhood. I picked up their new release Servants of the Sun in limited edition colored vinyl. I have yet to give it a spin but I am sure it’s great. I will buy anything they put it without a second thought.

CRB has a distinct sound and their main man Chris has a vocal style that is instantly recognizable. There is not anyone that sounds like him. I saw them several years ago when they had their first album out and completely enjoyed the show. This evening would be no exception. They made their way through thirteen songs interweaving their own blend of southern rock, blues, and country. I always enjoyed the guitar playing which reminds me fondly of the Allman Brothers. Chris looked very happy on stage, smiling frequently. There is not a lot to say from this group, Chris thanks the audience after each song then launches right into another one. They are like a well-oiled machine on stage and in the studio. They will be winding up their tour and finally taking a well-deserved break.

What day, what a night. I will never forget the experience I had hearing all that music. It was a glorious day and I hope if they have this event again and more importantly, that the support will be much better.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
July 1, 2019
Founder of:

Note: All the pictures were snapped by me with my Google Pixel2 Phone.

Concert Review: Tailwinds Music Festival In Wappinger Falls New York

Tailwinds Music Festival In Wappinger Falls New York
June 29, 2019

FEATURING: The Chris Robinson Brotherhood
Geoff Tate's Operation: Mindcrime
Black Stone Cherry
Kings X
Sass Jordan



I often wondered what it would be like to sit in on all-day/all-night rock concert. I have been to my share of concerts over the years and saw as many as 4 bands performing short sets leading up to the headliner.  But to leave at 7 am, drive 3 hours and return home at 3 am is another matter. That is one long day. I found out that is was well worth it by the time it was all over.

The first band came on at noon, one of the three local warm-ups preceding Sass Jordan. The Jason Gisser Band was excellent and the lead singer, the namesake of the band, has one fantastic voice. He reminded me of Lenny Kravitz quite a bit actually, and as far as I am concerned that is a good thing! After that set The Playback kept things going with their energized alternative rock with a punk edge then Big Guns came on to close out the warm-up sessions. They were very good as well and the lead singer was certainly a big gun himself, I thought of the first lead singer of Marillion, the gargantuan Fish. 

After the set breakdown and rebuild, Sass Jordan came on stage to kick it up a notch. The lady has been around for several years with many releases available however I never got into her music. After hearing her I am scratching my head as to why I never did. She is a great performer with just enough edge to her voice to compliment the super tight rockin’ band that supports her. After enjoying her entire set, I felt compelled to start looking into her back catalog.

Time was ticking away on this beautiful day. The threat of rain was there but the storm headed our way turned around and changed direction. The music gods were with us as the sky cleared into blue and the sun was blazing. After a few hours of that sun beating down on you, a break was necessary. And once again we were blessed with a reprieve as a cloud cover moved in and blocked out those rays. Mr. Sun would return much later in the day and provide us with a spectacular blend of colors over the mountains. 



Next up was Doug Pinnick’s Kings X. His music is different and he has a distinct vocal style that takes a bit of getting used to if you are not familiar with the music. I am familiar and actually enjoy his vocal style. The music can be a very heavy prog metal to a rock-blues edge sound. One thing you can count on in the songs are some interesting time changes. All the guitar players out there would be hard-pressed to duplicate what is being produced. Pinnick’s long slender frame and extremely long arms allow him to carry his bass down to his knees. He plays it like a lead guitar. Kings X has a large catalog of music to check out and enjoy and the concert was a taste of what there is to offer the “progressive” listeners.

By this point, the audience began moving closer to the stage and it continued to grow but not to the point of pushing us out of our seats (lawn chairs). We were about 10ft back from the stage, a perfect range to capture all the sounds and vocals. I was told at the gate they sold 1,500 tickets but it sure did not look like that many people. The capacity is 5,000 so the response to this event was pretty pathetic. It supported women’s breast cancer and the artists that were on stage were fantastic, all of them.

Now for one of the main events for many that came. Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime. Many people left after he performed which was a shame because there was more great music to come. Geoff was the voice of Queensryche and without him, they should not be bearing that name it’s as simple as that. Just my opinion on the matter. In any event, Geoff sounds fantastic and his command of the stage keeps your eyes glued right on him. He is not only singing he is playing the part of the main character in the story. The tour he and his excellent band are on this year is to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of that classic progressive metal album Operation: Mindcrime.

At one point during the performance, this beautiful blonde girl comes out on stage to sing with Geoff. I had no idea who she was. It was Geoff’s daughter Emily. She also was holding down the fort at the band’s merch table. Later on, I stopped by to say hello and asked her to make sure she told her dad that I thought that was the best Queensryche show I have ever seen. That was number 3 for me. I thought that would put a smile on his face.

Tate is as energetic and vibrant as ever and the band is tight and spot on. Basically, everything necessary to perform such a classic and musically difficult to perform recording. With twin guitars blazing away and a rhythm section that you can feel pounding right through your chest, it’s just what the doctor ordered for Mr. Tate to be in his best form. I took more pictures of that performance than any of the entire day and evening. In fact, I know CRB was the headliner but Geoff’s band could have easily been as well. No disrespect to CRB, they are fantastic, but as far as the level of musicianship and precision delivery, they are equals without question. 

After that incredible performance, what more could a music lover ask for right? Well, how about the totally kick-ass Black Stone Cherry? Now here is a band that I knew of and I never pursued their music. After hearing their performance, I am totally hooked. They put on an amazing show and it rocked the house down. I went to the local vinyl LP vendor there and grabbed the only copy of their latest release Family Tree. I spoke to one of their fans on the way to the lovely porta-potties and he informed me that was their best album and they had just played 5 songs for us. I was sold!  Anyone that likes to rock would love this band I have no doubt. For those music fans that left early, which was foolish, you missed a band in its prime cranking it out.

Now after hearing all of that loud and raucous music, I think we were all ready for something different, some tunes with a warmer blues, funky rock sound. That would be provided by The Chris Robinson Brotherhood. I picked up their new release Servants of the Sun in limited edition colored vinyl. I have yet to give it a spin but I am sure it’s great. I will buy anything they put it without a second thought.

CRB has a distinct sound and their main man Chris has a vocal style that is instantly recognizable. There is not anyone that sounds like him. I saw them several years ago when they had their first album out and completely enjoyed the show. This evening would be no exception. They made their way through thirteen songs interweaving their own blend of southern rock, blues, and country. I always enjoyed the guitar playing which reminds me fondly of the Allman Brothers. Chris looked very happy on stage, smiling frequently. There is not a lot to say from this group, Chris thanks the audience after each song then launches right into another one. They are like a well-oiled machine on stage and in the studio. They will be winding up their tour and finally taking a well-deserved break.

What day, what a night. I will never forget the experience I had hearing all that music. It was a glorious day and I hope if they have this event again and more importantly, that the support will be much better.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
July 1, 2019
Founder of:

Note: All the pictures were snapped by me with my Google Pixel2 Phone.

6/28/2019

Joe Louis Walker Announces World Tour In Support of His Brand New Concert DVD/CD Release "Viva Las Vegas Live"


Los Angeles, CA - On May 10th, 2019, Cleopatra Entertainment - in association with Cleopatra Blues - released a brand new concert film Viva Las Vegas Live from Grammy Award-nominated Blues legend Joe Louis Walker. Directed by Brent Backhus, this stunning 85-minute concert was captured in all its glory at the infamous Boulder Station Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada last summer during Walker’s 2018 U.S. tour.

Watch the official trailer:


In support of the new CD/DVD release, Joe Louis Walker has announced a world tour and has revealed that he’ll also be releasing a brand new studio album on the Cleopatra Blues label in 2020 that will feature guest appearances from blues and rock icons alike.

JUN 28 FRI
Blues On Bank Friday Kickoff
New London, CT, United States

JUL 12 FRI
Somers Point Beach Concert Series
Somers Point, NJ, United States

JUL 19 FRI
Santa Maria Blues Festival
Vila Do Porto, Portugal

JUL 30 TUE
Supersonic Blues Machine + guests
Madrid, Spain

AUG 2 FRI
Supersonic Blues Machine + guests
Notodden, Norway

AUG 3 SAT
Supersonic Blues Machine + guests
Megeve, France

AUG 10 SAT
Towne Crier Cafe
Beacon, NY, United States

AUG 16 FRI
Joe Louis walker’s Acoustic Trio w/ Giles Robson & Kenny “Blues Boss" Wayne
Northampton, MA, United States

AUG 17 SAT
Chenango Blues Festival - Joe Louis walker’s Acoustic Trio w/ Giles Robson & Kenny “Blues Boss" Wayne
Norwich, NY, United States

AUG 24 SAT
The North River Blues Festival
Marshfield, MA, United States

SEP 7 SAT
Cyprus Blues Festival
Nicosia, Cyprus

OCT 10 THU
Cabaret-Théâtre du Vieux-Saint-Jean
Saint-jean-sur-richelieu, Canada

OCT 12 SAT
Cécile et RAMONE
Québec, Canada

NOV 2 SAT
Blues Heaven Festival
Frederikshavn, Denmark

NOV 3 SUN
Frederikshavn Kirke
Frederikshavn, Denmark

NOV 14 THU
Funky Biscuit
Boca Raton, FL, United States

NOV 15 FRI
Skipper's Smokehouse
Tampa, FL, United States

NOV 16 SAT
Lake Concord Park
Casselberry, FL, United States

Joe Louis Walker’s career has spanned nearly six decades – and 24 studio albums – since first picking up the guitar at his childhood home in San Francisco at the young age of eight. Joining the local musicians’ union in his early teens enabled young Joe to perform publicly with the likes of John Lee Hooker, Buddy Miles, Thelonious Monk, Willie Dixon, Nick Lowe, John Mayall, Muddy Waters and even Jimi Hendrix. By the late 1980s and into the 1990s, Walker had already collaborated with and performed with multi-Grammy Award winning artists such as B.B. King (on King’s Blues Summit album) and James Cotton (on Cotton’s Deep In The Blues album) as well as enjoying the rare honor to perform at the Presidential Inauguration of President George H. Bush. In 2013, Walker was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, later being nominated in four categories for a Blues Music Award. In 2015, his album Everybody Wants A Piece was nominated for a Grammy Award in the “Best Contemporary Blues Album” category.

Viva Las Vegas Live is available on global digital platforms along with the home entertainment version that will be packaged in a gorgeous, four-panel, 2 Disc Digipack containing a DVD and audio CD of the concert. The all-region DVD’s bonus features include an exclusive interview with Walker that was filmed backstage at the venue plus a rare, behind the scenes slideshow of Joe and his band as they prepare to storm through ten, smoking tracks in front of their adoring live audience. A stand-alone, limited-edition colored 12” Vinyl LP version of the concert will be released separately this summer on the Cleopatra Blues Label imprint.

Viva Las Vegas Live Track Listing:
I'm Not Messin’ Around
Young Girls Blues
Sugar Mama
Do You Love Me?
In The Morning
Soldier for Jesus
You Don't Love Me Girl
Black & Blue
Too Drunk To Drive Drunk
Like It This Way

ORDER JOE LOUIS WALKER VIVA LAS VEGAS LIVE DVD/CD here:
https://www.amazon.com/Joe-Louis-Walker-Viva-Vegas/dp/B07PKY4YZ5

Album Cover Photo Credit: Arnie Goodman

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


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords/
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4/15/2019

CLEOPATRA ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE JOE LOUIS WALKER 'VIVA LAS VEGAS LIVE' CONCERT FILM WORLDWIDE ON DVD/CD & VOD ON May 10, 2019


Los Angeles, CA - On May 10th, 2019, Cleopatra Entertainment - in association with Cleopatra Blues - will release a brand new concert film Viva Las Vegas Live from Grammy Award-nominated Blues legend Joe Louis Walker. Directed by Brent Backhus, this stunning 85-minute concert was captured in all its glory at the infamous Boulder Station Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada last summer during Walker’s 2018 U.S. tour.

Joe Louis Walker’s career has spanned nearly six decades – and 24 studio albums – since first picking up the guitar at his childhood home in San Francisco at the young age of eight. Joining the local musicians’ union in his early teens enabled young Joe to perform publicly with the likes of John Lee Hooker, Buddy Miles, Thelonious Monk, Willie Dixon, Nick Lowe, John Mayall, Muddy Waters and even Jimi Hendrix. By the late 1980s and into the 1990s, Walker had already collaborated with and performed with multi-Grammy Award winning artists such as B.B. King (on King’s Blues Summit album) and James Cotton (on Cotton’s Deep In The Blues album) as well as enjoying the rare honor to perform at the Presidential Inauguration of President George H. Bush. In 2013, Walker was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, later being nominated in four categories for a Blues Music Award. In 2015, his album Everybody Wants A Piece was nominated for a Grammy Award in the “Best Contemporary Blues Album” category.

Viva Las Vegas Live will be available on global digital platforms along with the home entertainment version that will be packaged in a gorgeous, four-panel, 2 Disc Digipack containing a DVD and audio CD of the concert. The all-region DVD’s bonus features include an exclusive interview with Walker that was filmed backstage at the venue plus a rare, behind the scenes slideshow of Joe and his band as they prepare to storm through ten, smoking tracks in front of their adoring live audience. A stand-alone, limited-edition colored 12” Vinyl LP version of the concert will be released separately this summer on the Cleopatra Blues Label imprint.

Viva Las Vegas Live Track Listing:
I'm Not Messin’ Around
Young Girls Blues
Sugar Mama
Do You Love Me?
In The Morning
Soldier for Jesus
You Don't Love Me Girl
Black & Blue
Too Drunk To Drive Drunk
Like It This Way

PRE-ORDER JOE LOUIS WALKER VIVA LAS VEGAS LIVE DVD/CD here:
https://www.amazon.com/Joe-Louis-Walker-Viva-Vegas/dp/B07PKY4YZ5

Album Cover Photo Credit: Arnie Goodman


About Cleopatra Entertainment:
Cleopatra Entertainment is a Los Angeles based multimedia company founded by Cleopatra Records head Brian Perera. Recent films in release include the action-adventure extravaganza CHINA SALESMAN starring Mike Tyson and Steven Seagal, the Brit-Pop laced MODERN LIFE IS RUBBISH, Egypt’s official entry to the 2018 Academy Awards foreign language category SHEIKH JACKSON, and the critically acclaimed ENGLAND IS MINE, directed by Oscar and BAFTA nominated director Mark Gill. For more information about Cleopatra Entertainment, please contact VP/General Manager Tim Yasui, tim@cleorecs.com or (310) 526-7210

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

4/05/2019

Experience Hendrix Tour 2019 Concert Review

The Experience  Hendrix Tour 2019 Concert
The Palace Theater Albany, New York
April 3, 2019



The pictures I have provided were snapped by me with my phone to give you an idea of the backdrop to the music prior to the show. That screen changed with each song and it was very trippy psychedelic colors and images that mirrored the timeframe of Jimi in his prime. -Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

The Electric Church arrived in Albany, NY last night with its all-star cast for the Experience Hendrix 2019 Tour.  The music of Jimi Hendrix continues to thrive and be embraced by fans worldwide. This is a tour I have been wanting to catch for several years now and I finally made it, and so glad I did.

The best thing that could happen to this event is the involvement of Billy Cox. Anyone familiar with Jimi’s music knows that they were friends for a long time and Billy played bass on some of Jimi’s albums. Also, with Janie Hendrix involved it makes everything legit. Also having a powerhouse rhythm section like Chris Layton (drums) and Kevin McCormick (bass) makes the entire gig more presentable and helps the other musicians blend into the Hendrix songs.

What you will witness at one of these shows is quite a display of musicianship, primarily guitar heroes having a really good time. The music of Hendrix is timeless as is his legend and persona.  With that thought in mind, how do all these current artists interpret the music of this fabled performer?

The wide array of styles with the musicians tells the tale. With Billy Cox, you have the living legend, the reigning high priest of The Electric Church. He is the only one left and he has done a great job of playing bass and singing in a live setting, as he did last evening. Having Billy as the main cog in the wheel for this presentation is key to its success.

One of my favorites, Eric Johnson, kicked off the night with Dweezil Zappa. This was the segment of the show I enjoyed the most.  Actually, anytime Eric took the stage it was enjoyable. Eric’s sound is instantly recognizable, as it is with most high-level players. One has to remember that Dweezil is excellent as well, the fact alone that he mastered father Frank’s music is an incredible feat.  One of the more consistent presences on stage was Mato Nanji.  Not a name that is as well known as some of the others but he was part of the act at least 75% of the time and he was consistently excellent emulating Jimi’s music. 
 

Another treat was The Slide Brothers. Calvin Cooke and Chuck Campbell. Man did those to wail away at every opportunity! The added a dimension to the music that made it all more as close to the original sound as possible. They were the X factor of the night.

One of the many high points of the evening was Johnny Lang with his powerful vocals and guitar playing. I thought his vocals were the strong point in regards to the songs covered. He is more of a straight-ahead bluesman with no tricks or fluff.  Sometimes that is just what the doctor ordered and he is a good fit for Jimi’s music. And I cannot forget the vocals of Henri Brown, who brought the sold-out crowd to its feet towards the end of the night.

Then Dave Mustaine of Megadeth came out and played. He did an admirable job with his flying V guitar. And towards the end of the show was the Three Amigos, Joe Satriani (guitar), Doug Pinnick (bass) and Kenny Aronoff (drums). Now, this was a picture I could not forget as all three do not have one hair follicle to show, if they painted themselves blue, they could pass for that other group we all know. All of that aside, this was the highlight of the evening I would think for most guitar fans. 
 
Kenny was a madman on those skins, he is so fast and so powerful after all these years, age has not affected him one bit. Pinnick with has bass hanging nearly to his ankles, and he can still reach it, by the way, sounded a lot like Jimi when he sang. For me, Satriani has been a favorite since his first release back in the 80s. This night however I did not appreciate him as much. The idea here I would think is to play Jimi’s music but in your own way and still keeping with the original sound as much as possible. Joe likes to use that whammy bar and make squealing sounds and such. I am not a fan of that so much. So, from my point of view, I wanted to see Joe that masterful guitar player, crank out the music of Hendrix minus all of the extra effects. He needs to save all that flashy technical playing for his own shows. This is a matter of personal taste and opinion and I am sure plenty of fans enjoyed that part of the show.

And lastly, I need to give the nod to blues legend Taj Mahal. The man is getting on in years but can still belt out the blues and play that six-string.  That is a lot of talent to witness in one concert and it is a night I never will forget.

The bottom line is respecting and celebrating the music of the greatest guitar player that walked this earth. That is the reason for the Experience Hendrix Tour. They do succeed with an amazing show that runs for 2.5 hours. It is a must-see affair. So, are you experienced?

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
April 5, 2019

9/18/2018

Blues/Rock Guitar Virtuoso Paul Nelson Announces Fall and Winter Tour Dates


Being blues/rock icon Johnny Winter's hand-picked touring and recording guitarist is just one of the accolades held by Grammy-winning guitarist Paul Nelson who has also shared the world's stages and/or recorded alongside Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Billy Gibbons, Slash, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, Vince Gill, Sonny Landreth, Ben Harper and the list goes on. With appearances on late night with David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel, Nelson a blues hall of fame artist is known for his amazing tone and playing style by an ever growing legion of fans establishing him as one of today's leading modern guitar trendsetters.

Come see why this guitarist's guitarist and band are packing houses on tour now!

PAUL NELSON TOUR DATES  2018-2019

October
10/06/18 - Hygienic Art Park - New London, CT
10/09/18 - Fanatics Pub - Lima, NY
10/11/18 - Slippery Noodle - Indianapolis, IN
10/12/18 - The Third Base - Springfield, IL
10/14/18 - Buddy Guys - Chicago, IL
10/17/18 - Zoo Bar - Lincoln, NE
10/19/18 - Knuckleheads Saloon - Kansas City, MO
10/20/18 - Corner Bar - Freemont, NE
10/21/18 - Byrons - Pomeroy, IA
10/27/18 - Lizzie Rose Music Room, Trenton, NJ

November
11/02/18 - Darwins - Sandy Springs, GA
11/03/18 - Hard Rock Cafe - Nashville, TN WDerek St Holmes
11/04/18 - Lafayettes Music Room - Memphis, TN
11/07/18 - Double Road Tavern - Jupiter, FL
11/08/18 - Leroys - Punta Gorda, FL
11/09/18 - The Barrel Room - Fort Myers, FL
11/10/18 - The Alley - Sanford, FL
11/11/18 - The Little Bar - Goodland, FL
11/14/18 - Englewoods on Dearborn - Englewood, FL
11/16/18 - South Street City Oven and Grill - Naples, FL
11/17/18 - The Funky Biscuit - Boca Raton, FL
12/01/18 - Kettle Works - Columbia, PA
12/08/18 - Woodbury Brewing Co - Woodbury, CT

January
02/22/19 - Third Base - Springfield IL
02/23/19 - TC's Bluestage - Napoleon, MI
02/28/19 - Chrome Lounge, Omaha, NE
02/24-31/19 - Johnny Winter Jamaica "Winterfest" - Trelawny, Jamaica w/Sonny Landrecht,Derek St Holmes, Samantha Fish, James Montgomery & All-Star Band

February
03/07/19 - Englewoods On Dearborn, Englewood, FL
03/17/19 - Blues at The Ranch - Sertoma Youth Ranch, Brookville, FL

For more information:
www.paulnelsonguitar.com

Links
Paul Nelson - JJ Flash
https://www.facebook.com/paulnelsonofficial/videos/1768987349806957/

Paul Nelson w/ Warren Haynes Gon't Mule and G Love


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

Blues/Rock Guitar Virtuoso Paul Nelson Announces Fall and Winter Tour Dates


Being blues/rock icon Johnny Winter's hand-picked touring and recording guitarist is just one of the accolades held by Grammy-winning guitarist Paul Nelson who has also shared the world's stages and/or recorded alongside Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Billy Gibbons, Slash, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, Vince Gill, Sonny Landreth, Ben Harper and the list goes on. With appearances on late night with David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel, Nelson a blues hall of fame artist is known for his amazing tone and playing style by an ever growing legion of fans establishing him as one of today's leading modern guitar trendsetters.

Come see why this guitarist's guitarist and band are packing houses on tour now!

PAUL NELSON TOUR DATES  2018-2019

October
10/06/18 - Hygienic Art Park - New London, CT
10/09/18 - Fanatics Pub - Lima, NY
10/11/18 - Slippery Noodle - Indianapolis, IN
10/12/18 - The Third Base - Springfield, IL
10/14/18 - Buddy Guys - Chicago, IL
10/17/18 - Zoo Bar - Lincoln, NE
10/19/18 - Knuckleheads Saloon - Kansas City, MO
10/20/18 - Corner Bar - Freemont, NE
10/21/18 - Byrons - Pomeroy, IA
10/27/18 - Lizzie Rose Music Room, Trenton, NJ

November
11/02/18 - Darwins - Sandy Springs, GA
11/03/18 - Hard Rock Cafe - Nashville, TN WDerek St Holmes
11/04/18 - Lafayettes Music Room - Memphis, TN
11/07/18 - Double Road Tavern - Jupiter, FL
11/08/18 - Leroys - Punta Gorda, FL
11/09/18 - The Barrel Room - Fort Myers, FL
11/10/18 - The Alley - Sanford, FL
11/11/18 - The Little Bar - Goodland, FL
11/14/18 - Englewoods on Dearborn - Englewood, FL
11/16/18 - South Street City Oven and Grill - Naples, FL
11/17/18 - The Funky Biscuit - Boca Raton, FL
12/01/18 - Kettle Works - Columbia, PA
12/08/18 - Woodbury Brewing Co - Woodbury, CT

January
02/22/19 - Third Base - Springfield IL
02/23/19 - TC's Bluestage - Napoleon, MI
02/28/19 - Chrome Lounge, Omaha, NE
02/24-31/19 - Johnny Winter Jamaica "Winterfest" - Trelawny, Jamaica w/Sonny Landrecht,Derek St Holmes, Samantha Fish, James Montgomery & All-Star Band

February
03/07/19 - Englewoods On Dearborn, Englewood, FL
03/17/19 - Blues at The Ranch - Sertoma Youth Ranch, Brookville, FL

For more information:
www.paulnelsonguitar.com

Links
Paul Nelson - JJ Flash
https://www.facebook.com/paulnelsonofficial/videos/1768987349806957/

Paul Nelson w/ Warren Haynes Gon't Mule and G Love


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

9/06/2018

Concert Review: Judas Priest and Deep Purple Co-Headline at Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center

Judas Priest and Deep Purple Co-Headline at Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center
Opening Act Temperance Movement

Bethel Woods New York
September 2, 2018






Thousands of people made the trek to the mountains in Bethel Woods NY to see a triple header rock concert. It was one of those nights you would never forget. Deep Purple, whom I never saw live, Judas Priest and a relatively new band on the scene, Temperance Movement, would entertain for over 3 hours.

 
It was a long ride for us but well worth the trip by the time we got back home in the wee hours of the morning. This would be the fourth time I would see Judas Priest. I am also aware that Deep Purple is likely on their last tour and recorded their last studio album From Here To Infinite. This placed some urgency on the event for me personally. I was there to cover Judas Priest so everything else was icing on the cake.


I have to say that the venue at Bethel Woods, which sits directly across the field where Woodstock was held, is the most beautiful venue I have ever been to. I have been to a few in my day and this place is so scenic and peaceful, well not for long though. There is a little stream that runs alongside the path to the stage and a beautiful water fountain as well.  There are all kinds of food and drink vendors and some very interesting booths for memorabilia of the site and of course the swag booths to give every fan a chance to buy something from the event. I picked up a signed CD from The Temperance Movement. It is a fantastic new album titled A Deeper Cut.

So, we just made it there before the concert started and had to walk quite a way from where we parked, which would later prove to work to our advantage when leaving.  My son and I ran to our seats to catch The Temperance Movement’s opening song.

The Temperance Movement are a British blues rock band formed in 2011 by Phil Campbell and guitarists Luke Potashnick and Paul Sayer. The rhythm section consists of bassist Nick Fyffe and drummer Damon Wilson. This was a pleasant surprise to have them open for the two rock heavyweights as I have appreciated their recorded output since their inception. They really came on strong and maintained the energy level with some great playing. The lead singer is a little dynamo, jumping all over and waving his arms. I think he must have watched Jagger on stage a bit before he took the stage himself and I can hear the influence of the Rolling Stones in their sound. They had a short stay but they really made the best of every moment and think left a lasting impression on an audience that was likely unfamiliar to them.


Faulkner and Halford
Judas Priest was up next and they started things off with the title track of their new album Firepower. Rob Halford is now sporting his completely white beard and looking like the elder rocker but sounding strong as ever. Every time I see this band I am simply amazed how Halford keeps his pipes in such good shape and the range and screams he still commands are awesome.

Ritchie Faulkner is now the veteran guitar player of the band. He trades licks with Andy Sneap who fills in now for Glen Tipton. Tipton was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. I was very saddened to hear this news.  It seemed strange not seeing Glen on stage with his red leather pants and guitar blazing away. Faulkner certainly has reached another level as a guitar player and he has risen to the occasion taking over a lion’s share of the lead runs. 

                   
Halford and Sneap
So as Priest made their way through their set list I realized that this was the first time I had felt the sheer power of their set so up close. We had some great seats. When I would sit down for a few minutes I could feel the bass drum hammering away at my chest. It really was an amazing feeling. They were very loud but that is the only way to experience a Priest concert with the decibel level pinning in the red. If it hurts the eardrums well that will eventually wear off and you will be so glad you went again.
     
Then came rock legends Deep Purple. Ian Gillan (vocals), Ian Paice (drums), Roger Glover (bass), Steve Morse (guitar) and Don Airey (keys) are a solid veteran unit that is very comfortable on stage and in the studio.
Ian Gillan has naturally lost some range with his voice; however, he is very distinctive and he gets the numbers across quite well. Some of the fan favorites were covered like “Highway Star,” “Space Truckin,” “Lazy” and of course “Smoke on the Water” and the incredible oldie “Hush.” 

Deep Purple Bass Player Roger Glover
Deep Purple can still be a force to be reckoned with onstage and if they were not I am sure they would not be sharing a bill with the metal legends Judas Priest. There is likely a mutual respect there between the two bands. I have to give the nod to Steve Morse for still playing magnificently even though he has some wrist issues and has to wear a brace. I know the feeling and really appreciate his efforts to keep playing all of that great music.

What an amazing night and I was there. What an honor and privilege it was to attend such an event and have the opportunity to provide some coverage to perspective concert goers.

My final thought is if this show is coming to a town near you I highly recommend your attendance as this may be your last chance to see these bands play together!

September 5, 2018
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
"The original internet “MuzikMan” Reviewer since 1998!”

(All the pics I took with my phone so they are not professional, I have provided them to give people an idea of what I was watching and enjoying)

Judas Priest Setlist:
Firepower Intro
Firepower
Delivering the Goods
Sinner
Lightning Strike
Desert Plains
Turbo Lover
Guardians
Rising From Ruins
Freewheel Burning
You've Got Another Thing Comin'
Hell Bent for Leather
Painkiller

Encore:
Metal Gods
No Surrender
(first time w/o Glenn;… more )
Breaking the Law
Living After Midnight

Deep Purple Setlist:
Mars, the Bringer of War
(Gustav Holst song)
Highway Star
Pictures of Home
Bloodsucker
Strange Kind of Woman
Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming
Uncommon Man
Lazy
Knocking at Your Back Door
Keyboard Solo
(incl. "The Star-Spangled Banner")
Perfect Strangers
Space Truckin'
Smoke on the Water

Encore:
Hush
(Joe South cover) (incl. "Peter Gunn Theme" intro)