Rock Review: The Ann Wilson Thing-#2

Release Date: August 12, 2016
Label: Rounder Records
Website

One of the most beloved performers in music is Ann Wilson, renowned for her legendary work as the vocalist with Heart and her highly acclaimed solo work. Yes, Ms. Wilson is rock royalty.

The Ann Wilson thing is one of her projects and now she has released #2 of her covers of classic rock songs and originals.

Having old friend and Heart guitarist Craig Bartock along for the ride gives the singer an immediate comfort zone. Wilson finds plenty of familiarity with her choice of tracks and we cannot forget she was part of band in the 70s onward that contributed some of their own slices of classic rock like “Magic Man” and “Barracuda” to name just a few.

The two originals are “Fighten Fer Life” and “Anguish,” which she collaborated with Bartock on.

The opener is the Hendrix all time classic “Manic Depression.” This is a song covered by numerous artists and emulated throughout the history of recorded music. Ann does a terrific job with the song and as to be expected she totally owns it and the instrumentation is exceptional per usual.

“Don t Give Up” was featured track on our Rate The Tracks site. The Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush track still rings true to this day and the talented Wilson covers both parts like the accomplished pro she is. The timbre of the song is mellow and thoughtful as the vocalist accentuates every word to make sure it hits home. Her voice is still poignant after all these years. She is one of those performers that has not lost a step and that is a tribute to her dedication to the craft.

People tend to have higher expectations for established stars like Ann Wilson and without fail she never disappoints. 

The curtain closer is the original “Anguish.” The track starts off with twangy slide guitar made for the blues then Wilson’s voice joins in with as much vitality and color as the guitar musters. She still hits those high notes with ease. Even though I love “Manic Depression” and the way it was presented this one is so killer you wish it would just keep going.

Everything is here for the folks that appreciate Ann Wilson, Heart and any of her solo projects. What can I say the lady is one of the best ever and with music like this it’s hard to argue that she still isn’t on top. #2 is great EP.

5/5 Stars

Key Track: Anguish

Tracks:

1. Manic Depression

2. Fighten Fer Life

3. Don t Give Up

4. Anguish

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

August 28, 2016

Founder of:

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Pink Fireball Release Wild Rock Single 'Cool Rider Crunch'

Pink Fireball are a four-piece rock group from Paris, reviving classic rock whilst introducing several of their own idiosyncratic twists.

Their previous single ‘Turn Around’ was a chugging rock anthem that incorporated trumpets accompanied by a fun rollercoaster-themed music video. Now the band are back with this new guitar-driven single ‘Cool Rider Crunch’. It features some big vocals, breaking into a mean guitar solo for the second half of the track.

The music video is equally exciting and sees the band riding a 1965 Ford Mustang. The video also features appearances from Moulin Rouge dancer Chloe Alexandra Atherton and models Aline Tran and Petula Goldfever. 

Links:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfpwU4cwJNKYztu6c0xgmkA

https://www.facebook.com/pinkfireball/?ref=ts&fref=ts

https://twitter.com/pink_fireball

https://soundcloud.com/pink-fireball

https://play.spotify.com/album/312sdIlJKwscXpfpqPg7Di?play=true&utm_source=open.spotify.com&utm_medium=open

Orca Release New Single ‘Aquarium’

Described as a “cracking band” and praised for their “excellent production values” by music blog Progrockmusictalk, UK-based alt-rockers Orca have proven to be on top of their game. As pioneers and creators of the mysterious domain of ‘space metal’, the five-piece is steadily stepping up to the music industry’s spotlight.

Their fascination with space and discovering the unknown has always been part of their own musical exploration. By fusing melodic experimentation with hard hitting metal riffs, their new single ‘Aquarium’ (taken from the album ‘Universe’) is a muscular track, effervescing with a forthright and speeding energy. As a follow up to the similarly metal infused guitar styles and contemplative vocals of their first single ‘Amber’, this tune is a sensational marvel of progressive rock.

Listen here:  

The song came about when singer Chris started exploring the emotions drawn from the cryptic and riddle-like rhythmic arrangement of a demo recording. ‘Aquarium’ is ultimately about desire, beauty, identity, sensuality, and connecting with the power of nature. The video for the single was shot in a real aquarium which the band describes as a “wonderful” and “entrancing” experience. The album is called ‘Universe’ as it was written while the band were travelling separately around the world, with each band member looking out to a different part of the night sky for inspiration.

With influences ranging from Deftones to Tool the band has mastered the techniques of DIY and created a magnificent set of songs with little to no help from other producers. Their music touches upon the deeper questions in life. Orca describes their sound as being about “submission to the awe and power of the world, and the realization and self-actualization levels of awareness and consciousness.” Part of their musical diversity stems from the fact that Orca consists of a colourful mixture of different nationalities. Bassist Matt McGuinness is Irish, guitarist David Vezzoli from Italy, other guitarist Ben Murray-Smith from England but born in Brazil, drummer Kacper "Drum Kid" Stachowiak

from Poland and singer Chris Edwards is British Armenian. Orca’s sound reflects this diversity and has been celebrated by radio stations such as KSCR in Los Angeles and Aaron Phillip’s Amazing Radio Rock Show here in the UK. Musically, they have also come from a variety of backgrounds ranging from psychedelic rock and jazz to heavy metal and synth-pop.

The band has evolved from bassist Matt and guitarist Dave’s previous project called Martian Time Slip which focused more on a traditional darker kind of metal. After the break up of Martian Time Slip the two collaborators embarked upon new endeavours, forming Orca and searching for the perfect vocalist for the band. Chris approached the band with a style that was both unique and enigmatic. They were struck by his powerful voice and his ability to enrich the melodies with passion much like the late Jeff Buckley. Ben joined shortly afterwards while continuing to write songs for famous Vlogger Casey Neistat. The newest addition to the group is drummer Kacper who has had success with his symphonic power metal band Pathfinder.

The single ‘Aquarium’ is out on 4^th March from the album Universe out April 1st

LINKS:

http://www.orcaband.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfc2c5RQ1oHYu8EmZ-TNSsQ/videos

https://twitter.com/orcabanduk

https://www.facebook.com/orcaband

https://soundcloud.com/orcaband

https://orcaband.bandcamp.com/

Upcoming gig dates for 2016:

March 20th – Cellar Bar, Bracknell

April 1st - Rigger Stoke-on-Trent

April 8th - Barfly, London

April 18th - Surya King's Cross, London

Progressive Rock Review: Asia-Axis XXX Live In San Francisco

Release Date: 22^nd June 2015

Label:  Frontiers music

Website 

This is a recording produced by the original line-up of the band, Asia, when they toured in support of the album XXX, released back in 2012.The venue for the recording was the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco and the date was the 7^th November 2012.

The four members of the band were John Wetton (bass, vocals), Carl Palmer (drums), Steve Howe (guitars) and Geoff Downes (keyboards).

This is the band’s 23rd live album, if the information to be gleaned from  progarchives.com is to be believed. Axis XXX Live In San Franscisco is a 2 disc release with a total playing time a few seconds over the 2 hour mark, (120:21), and comprises 19 tracks. Disc 1 has 12 tracks including the obligatory “Introduction” and has a running time of 62:50 minutes with the second disc, 7 tracks and a slightly shorter playing time of 57:31 minutes. The longest track on offer is found on disc 2, “ Holy War-Drum Solo” at 15:03 minutes and the shortest track is “Pyramidolog,” on disc 1 with a playing time of 3:26 minutes.

The recording concentrates on the earlier albums, although it was headlined as the Axis XXX tour, with 10 of the 19 tracks coming from the first album, Asia in 1982 (7 tracks) and second album, Alpha in 1983 (3 tracks). The only other album to be “plundered” in any way is XXX, from 2012, with 3 tracks. An odd inclusion to my mind is a track taken from the solo album release by Steve Howe in 2001, Natural Timbre.

After the fairly low-key introduction, which is simply the music prior to and during the band entering the stage, as evidenced by the clapping/cheering that starts up part way through. Once ready, the band burst into life with 2 classic tracks from the debut album, Asia, now 33 years old, “Only Time Will Tell” (5:22) and “Wildest Dreams” (6:02) and follow this duo with a track from the 2012, XXX album, “Face On The Bridge” (6:01). All four members of the band are excellent as you would expect from such seasoned musicians, and the power still present in the voice of John Wetton is amazing.

The band then run through a selection of material, which tends to form the bulk of their live shows, so there are no real surprises. “Pyramidology” (3:27) and “Golden Mean” (4:11) allow Steve Howe to highlight his acoustic guitar playing, which most people are well aware of, and then the band pull together for another track from the XXX album in the form of “I Know How You Feel” (5:50).

Whilst the album, Axis XXX is not going to “set the heather alight” and shift shedloads of copies, it is a very competent, satisfying release. If there is anything to flag up as a negative, it is simply the lack of the surprise factor, with the playlist being firmly planted in “safe” tracks, and a similarity to other live recordings by the band.

For Asia fans, this will be an essential purchase, but I am not convinced that this issue will add to the number of Asia fans. In the same manner as the album started with a “bang,” it concludes in a similar manner with the rousing pairing of “Sole Survivor” (7:24) and “Heat Of The Moment” (7:55).

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Only Time Will Tell, Tomorrow The World, Heat Of The Moment

Tracks:

Disc 1:

Introduction
Only Time Will Tell
Wildest Dreams
Face On The Bridge
Time Again
Tomorrow The world
Ride Easy
Pyramidology
Golden Mean
I Know How You Feel
Don’t Cry
Smile has left Your Eyes

Disc 2:
Cutting It Fine
Holy War-Drum Solo
Extraordinary Life
Here Comes The feeling
Open Your Eyes
Sole Survivor

Heat Of The Moment

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

November 30, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Progressive Rock Review: Asia-Axis XXX Live In San Francisco

Release Date: 22^ndJune 2015

Label:  Frontiers music

Website 

This is a recording produced by the original line-up of the band, Asia, when they toured in support of the album XXX, released back in 2012.The venue for the recording was the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco and the date was the 7^th November 2012.

The four members of the band were John Wetton (bass, vocals), Carl Palmer (drums), Steve Howe (guitars) and Geoff Downes (keyboards).

This is the band’s 23rd live album, if the information to be gleaned from  progarchives.com is to be believed. Axis XXX Live In San Franscisco is a 2 disc release with a total playing time a few seconds over the 2 hour mark, (120:21), and comprises 19 tracks. Disc 1 has 12 tracks including the obligatory “Introduction” and has a running time of 62:50 minutes with the second disc, 7 tracks and a slightly shorter playing time of 57:31 minutes. The longest track on offer is found on disc 2, “ Holy War-Drum Solo” at 15:03 minutes and the shortest track is “Pyramidolog,” on disc 1 with a playing time of 3:26 minutes.

The recording concentrates on the earlier albums, although it was headlined as the Axis XXX tour, with 10 of the 19 tracks coming from the first album, Asia in 1982 (7 tracks) and second album, Alpha in 1983 (3 tracks). The only other album to be “plundered” in any way is XXX, from 2012, with 3 tracks. An odd inclusion to my mind is a track taken from the solo album release by Steve Howe in 2001, Natural Timbre.

After the fairly low-key introduction, which is simply the music prior to and during the band entering the stage, as evidenced by the clapping/cheering that starts up part way through. Once ready, the band burst into life with 2 classic tracks from the debut album, Asia, now 33 years old, “Only Time Will Tell” (5:22) and “Wildest Dreams” (6:02) and follow this duo with a track from the 2012, XXX album, “Face On The Bridge” (6:01). All four members of the band are excellent as you would expect from such seasoned musicians, and the power still present in the voice of John Wetton is amazing.

The band then run through a selection of material, which tends to form the bulk of their live shows, so there are no real surprises. “Pyramidology” (3:27) and “Golden Mean” (4:11) allow Steve Howe to highlight his acoustic guitar playing, which most people are well aware of, and then the band pull together for another track from the XXX album in the form of “I Know How You Feel” (5:50).

Whilst the album, Axis XXX is not going to “set the heather alight” and shift shedloads of copies, it is a very competent, satisfying release. If there is anything to flag up as a negative, it is simply the lack of the surprise factor, with the playlist being firmly planted in “safe” tracks, and a similarity to other live recordings by the band.

For Asia fans, this will be an essential purchase, but I am not convinced that this issue will add to the number of Asia fans. In the same manner as the album started with a “bang,” it concludes in a similar manner with the rousing pairing of “Sole Survivor” (7:24) and “Heat Of The Moment” (7:55).

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Only Time Will Tell, Tomorrow The World, Heat Of The Moment

Tracks:

Disc 1:

Introduction
Only Time Will Tell
Wildest Dreams
Face On The Bridge
Time Again
Tomorrow The world
Ride Easy
Pyramidology
Golden Mean
I Know How You Feel
Don’t Cry
Smile has left Your Eyes

Disc 2:
Cutting It Fine
Holy War-Drum Solo
Extraordinary Life
Here Comes The feeling
Open Your Eyes
Sole Survivor

Heat Of The Moment

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

November 30, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Audio Fidelity To Release Alice Cooper's “Muscle of Love” On 4.0 Quad SACD

“Alice returns to a pure rock sound...one of his most revered albums ever.”

Alice Cooper fans rejoice! Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity will be releasing the final Alice Cooper group album on 4.0 Quad SACD. Muscle of Love is the seventh studio album by Alice Cooper and it was the last album to feature the entire original band, and it was a true grand finale at that. Cooper stated in an interview at the time that the album marked a return to fundamentals. “It's not complicated in any sense...It's very basic rock & roll throughout.”

The two best-known tracks are undoubtedly the Top 20 anthem “Teenage Lament '74,” which features none other than Liza Minnelli, Ronnie Spector, Labelle and the Pointer Sisters on backing vocals, and the rollicking title track. But other tracks are just as good - the Led Zep-stomping opener, “Big Apple Dreamin' (Hippo),” the gentle “Hard Hearted Alice” (a precursor to Cooper's future ballad-oriented direction), the raging “Working Up a Sweat,” and “Man with the Golden Gun.”

The 1973 return to the band's more hard rock roots was a successful creative choice and catapulted Muscle Of Love into Billboard's Top 10 Album Chart. That sound, complete with the prog-rock/heavy metal workouts, has proven over the years to be a significant piece of the Alice Cooper legacy.

“One of the best albums of the genre...a hard rock classic!”

INCLUDES: Miniature replica of the Institute of Nude Wrestling book cover

TRACKS:
1. Big Apple Dreamin' (Hippo)
2. Never Been Sold Before
3. Hard Hearted Alice
4. Crazy Little Child
5. Working Up a Sweat
6. Muscle of Love
7. Man with the Golden Gun
8. Teenage Lament '74
9. Woman Machine

Produced by Jack Richardson, Jack Douglas
Mastered: Stereo CD, SACD & 4.0 Analog to High Definition DSD Digital Transfer: Steve Hoffman & Stephen Marsh

For more information: www.audiofidelity.net
Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Music Legends Unite! The Rock Pack Feat. Mickey Thomas of STARSHIP, Bobby Kimball original lead singer of TOTO, Steve Walsh formerly of KANSAS, Robin Zander of CHEAP TRICK, Fee Waybill of THE TUBES, and John Payne formerly of ASIA!

The Rock Pack To Perform At The Germain Arena, Ft Myers, FL. Nov 19, 2015

Fort Myers, FL -  November 19th sees the arrival of THE ROCK PACK at The Germain Arena, Ft. Myers, FL.

John Payne, former ASIA lead vocalist and co-creator of the #1 Vegas musical “Raiding the Rock Vault,” has created a unique new event. THE ROCK PACK concert is an incredible 80s rock extravaganza featuring the vocalists and the hits from six major classic rock bands.

The cast of stellar star singers includes Mickey Thomas of STARSHIP, Bobby Kimball original lead singer of TOTO, Steve Walsh formerly of KANSAS, Robin Zander of CHEAP TRICK, Fee Waybill of THE TUBES, and John Payne formerly of ASIA.

This stunning show features the classic hit songs sung by the original singers; Dust in the Wind, I Want You to Want Me, We Built This City, Africa, Surrender, Beauty, The Flame, Rosanna, White Punks on Dope, Carry on My Wayward Son, Dream Police, Hold the Line, Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now and more.

Ringmaster Payne also extracts interesting stories from the cast of classic rock artists as well as pertinent visuals on huge screens. Throughout the show he sings the ASIA classics Heat Of The Moment, Only Time Will Tell, Sole Survivor, and Time Again.

Prepare yourself for an unprecedented evening of superlative music, enthralling stories and visuals.

THE ROCK PACK, Presented by KDIM Entertainment as part of The Classic Rock Series.

Who: The Rock Pack
When: November 19, 2015
Where: Germain Arena, Ft. Myers, FL
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/classic-rock-series-the-rock-pack-estero-florida-11-19-2015/event/0D004F23AAF679AC?artistid=1475086&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1

For more information:
http://theclassicrockseries.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ClassicRockSeries
https://twitter.com/ClassRockSeries
www.kdimentertainment.com ;

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

Audio Fidelity To Release Loggins and Messina Classic Rock Gem On 4.0 Quad SACD

“So much great music packed into one album!”

Camarillo, CA – Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity is releasing Loggins and Messina's critically acclaimed self-titled album on 4.0 Quad SACD. While Loggins and Messina created many fine albums this one stands out as most representative of their impact. In the early '70s the duo pioneered true country/rock and showcased it with style and near-flawless performances.

The eponymously titled 1972 Loggins and Messina album built on the strengths of their debut outing, “Sittin' In.” The same mix of short catchy country-folk-pop gems with longer intricately layered and meaningful ballads bordering on jazz and edgy rock powered its success. The album reached #16 on the Billboard charts and “Your Mama Don't Dance” charted at #4. The epic “Angry Eyes” became an instant FM radio staple reaching the top of the college radio and AOR charts.

This Loggins and Messina album has many varied textures and arrangements. A little bit of country, a number of quality ballads and some good old rock 'n' roll. Their backup band was anchored by multi-instrumentalist Al Garth, and also featured keyboardist Michael Omartian and Poco steel guitarist Rusty Young.

The Loggins and Messina album became the true introduction of the band, Loggins and Messina, not as soloists playing together, but rather as a duo that offered pure genius in their music.

“Exceptional harmonies and insightful lyrics...The cream Of The Classic Rock crop.”

Tracks
1. Good Friend
2. Whiskey
3. Your Mama Don't Dance
4. Long Tail Cat
5. Golden Ribbons
6. Thinking of You
7. Just Before the News
8. Till the Ends Meet
9. Holiday Hotel
10. Lady of My Heart
11. Angry Eyes

Produced by Jim Messina, Kenny Loggins
Mastered for this release by Steve Hoffman at Stephen Marsh Mastering

For more information: www.audiofidelity.net

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

From The Heat Of Australia Comes ‘The Violence Of Ice’, The New Single From Rhett May

Primarily influenced by the classic song writing of John Lennon, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, Rhett May is a rock writer who has moulded his own sound over several decades in the industry. His self-produced rock is simple, raw and home-made – without over-the-top production but with plenty to say about May’s take on the modern world.

Having spent a large part of his childhood in Calcutta, India, his guitar led songs are infused with the sounds of the Indian streets, giving his music a different flavour to the majority of current, cookie cutter rock music. By blending classic sensibilities with a twist of Indian culture, he has created a string of upcoming singles, the first of which will be ‘The Violence of Ice’ – out October 2^nd.

With a musical career which spans back to the seventies when his band Lucifer supported legendary rock band Queen, Rhett May is a voice of experience in a rock world which has become increasingly shallow. He’s toured the world, seen the music industry from the inside, and watched the dark side of the business consume those around him.

Throughout those experiences, Rhett May continually turned away the excesses of the industry, choosing instead to write his own story as opposed to those who fell into the clutches of addiction. His is a positive message, song writing influenced by a wide and varied back story which took him from an orphanage at seven years old, to the streets of Calcutta in India, to settling in Melbourne, Australia as part of Lucifer.

It’s a lifetime of stories that shape Rhett May’s song writing, not to mention his work ethic – both musically and personally – which sees him answering every piece of fan mail individually.

And come the release of ‘The Violence of Ice’ on October 2^nd, we suspect he’ll be answering plenty more.

Links:

www.soundcloud.com/rhett-may-music

www.facebook.com/rhettmaymusic

www.twitter.com/rhettmay

www.rhettmay.com

www.reverbnation.com/rhettmay

https://itunes.apple.com/au/artist/rhett-may/id287901404

Classic Rock Legends Wishbone Ash Return to North America for Fall Road Warriors Tour

Danbury, CT - Wishbone Ash, one of the most influential guitar bands in the history of rock, returns to these shores in September with the Road Warriors North American Tour. The tour begins in Colorado and moves eastward through the month, passing through 12 states and Ontario, Canada. Longtime fans and new converts alike will revel in the group’s signature twin-guitar mastery and powerhouse rhythm section as they present classics spanning their career and showcase selections from their latest studio release, “Blue Horizon.”

True road warriors, each year Wishbone Ash logs around 30,000 miles, roughly equivalent to circumnavigating the earth; but this year may just set an all-time record with a series of July performances in South Africa. “We are looking forward to reconnecting with fans from the past who are just catching on that we've been touring non-stop for 46 years, to see and hear how we’ve grown while carrying the torch,” says founding member Andy Powell “And for our faithful fans who have walked with us consistently through the years, we have some special things in store to reach new heights in our relationship.”

The Road Warriors North American Tour also comes on the heels of two live recording projects in May, including a direct-to-vinyl performance at renowned Metropolis Studios complex in London slated for a fall release, expected to be available on both vinyl and CD. “Recording live in a studio and going straight to acetate is rarely done,” says Powell. “The conditions have to be just right, because you only get one shot. Everything has to be in sync.”

Immediately following the Metropolis session, the band did a three-day residency at Le Triton Theatre in Les Lilas, Paris that was recorded for a DVD release in October. Powell says, “We recorded three nights of material, including current versions of some classic songs, plus some deep tracks that people won't necessarily expect.”

Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash is led by Powell on guitar and vocals, trading licks with Finnish guitar master Muddy Manninen. Bassist Bob Skeat, an 18-year veteran of the band, sets the pace with Joe Crabtree, one of the best of Britain’s new breed of drummers whose performance credits include Pendragon and David Cross of King Crimson.

Through the years the band has delved into various musical genres, from folk, blues and jazz to pedal-to-the-metal rock and electronica. Whatever the style, Wishbone Ash’s hallmark is the distinctive twin-melodic lead guitar interplay that has influenced such bands as Thin Lizzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden and, more recently, Opeth. Wishbone Ash has to its credit 24 original studio recordings, 11 live albums and five live DVDs along with a DVD rockumentary (“This is Wishbone Ash”).

In 2014, the band released “Blue Horizon” (Solid Rockhouse Records) to international acclaim. Praised for its stylistic variety and powerful performances, the album features guest artist, Ireland’s Pat McManus, on fiddle for two tracks. “Blue Horizon” also includes two songs written by Aynsley Powell (Andy Powell’s son) and one by former Wishbone Ash guitarist Roger Filgate.

According to Powell, the album’s diversity reflects the culmination of several factors. “The band basically lives together year-round, so we have a very strong level of communication that translates in our performances and recordings,” he says. “We’ve come to an era where the industry has to pigeonhole a band as Classic Rock, Prog Rock, Heritage Rock and so on. The truth is that we have always kept our options open and always relied on the musicianship of the players to lead the way. It’s fun to be stylistically diverse and this has, in its way, contributed to our longevity.”

Powell has been working on his autobiography, “Eyes Wide Open: True Tales of a Wishbone Ash Warrior,” which is slated for October publication and will be available through Amazon. “It’s quite an undertaking to put 46 years of being a touring musician in this one band into book form,” he says. “I’ve seen a lot of changes in the music business and the world in general, as you can imagine.”

There is no other rock band in history that has done more with the twin guitar concept than The Ash. Be sure to catch them on the Road Warriors Tour this September. Tour dates and more information can be found at www.wishboneash.com.

WISHBONE ASH 'ROAD WARRIORS NORTH AMERICA' SEPTEMBER 2015
SEPT. 3 DENVER CO SOILED DOVE
SEPT. 5 WICHITA KS CROWN UPTOWN THEATRE
SEPT. 6 KANSAS CITY MO KNUCKLEHEADS
SEPT. 8 MINNEAPOLIS MN FAMOUS DAVE'S
SEPT. 9 DAVENPORT IA REDSTONE ROOM
SEPT. 10 MILWAUKEE WI PABST THEATRE
SEPT. 11 WOODSTOCK IL WOODSTOCK OPERA HOUSE
SEPT. 12 EDWARDSVILLE IL WILDEY THEATRE
SEPT. 13 EDWARDSVILLE IL WILDEY THEATRE (featuring “Argus Live”)
SEPT. 15 AUBURN HILLS MI CALLAHAN’S
SEPT. 16 CLEVELAND OH BEACHLAND BALLROOM
SEPT. 17 BUFFALO NY SPORTSMEN'S TAVERN
SEPT. 18 BARRIE ONT VIOLET'S VENUE
SEPT. 20 BEACON NY TOWNE CRIER CAFE
SEPT. 21 NEW YORK NY B.B. KING'S
SEPT. 22 FAIRFIELD CT FAIRFIELD THEATRE
SEPT. 23 SELLERSVILLE PA SELLERSVILLE THEATER
SEPT. 24 SHIRLEY MA BULL RUN
SEPT. 25 ALBANY NY VAN DYCK
SEPT. 26 JIM THORPE PA MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE
SEPT. 27 BORDENTOWN NJ RECORD COLLECTOR

North American Booking: Steve Ozark, Ozark Talent, PH: 785-760-3143 OzarkTalent@gmail.com

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com
Marketing & PR assistance: Kate Goldsmith - kate_goldsmith@wishboneash.com

To download electronic press kit: www.wishboneash.com/epk

Classic Rock Legends Wishbone Ash Return to North America for Fall Road Warriors Tour

Danbury, CT - Wishbone Ash, one of the most influential guitar bands in the history of rock, returns to these shores in September with the Road Warriors North American Tour. The tour begins in Colorado and moves eastward through the month, passing through 12 states and Ontario, Canada. Longtime fans and new converts alike will revel in the group’s signature twin-guitar mastery and powerhouse rhythm section as they present classics spanning their career and showcase selections from their latest studio release, “Blue Horizon.”

True road warriors, each year Wishbone Ash logs around 30,000 miles, roughly equivalent to circumnavigating the earth; but this year may just set an all-time record with a series of July performances in South Africa. “We are looking forward to reconnecting with fans from the past who are just catching on that we've been touring non-stop for 46 years, to see and hear how we’ve grown while carrying the torch,” says founding member Andy Powell “And for our faithful fans who have walked with us consistently through the years, we have some special things in store to reach new heights in our relationship.”

The Road Warriors North American Tour also comes on the heels of two live recording projects in May, including a direct-to-vinyl performance at renowned Metropolis Studios complex in London slated for a fall release, expected to be available on both vinyl and CD. “Recording live in a studio and going straight to acetate is rarely done,” says Powell. “The conditions have to be just right, because you only get one shot. Everything has to be in sync.”

Immediately following the Metropolis session, the band did a three-day residency at Le Triton Theatre in Les Lilas, Paris that was recorded for a DVD release in October. Powell says, “We recorded three nights of material, including current versions of some classic songs, plus some deep tracks that people won't necessarily expect.”

Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash is led by Powell on guitar and vocals, trading licks with Finnish guitar master Muddy Manninen. Bassist Bob Skeat, an 18-year veteran of the band, sets the pace with Joe Crabtree, one of the best of Britain’s new breed of drummers whose performance credits include Pendragon and David Cross of King Crimson.

Through the years the band has delved into various musical genres, from folk, blues and jazz to pedal-to-the-metal rock and electronica. Whatever the style, Wishbone Ash’s hallmark is the distinctive twin-melodic lead guitar interplay that has influenced such bands as Thin Lizzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden and, more recently, Opeth. Wishbone Ash has to its credit 24 original studio recordings, 11 live albums and five live DVDs along with a DVD rockumentary (“This is Wishbone Ash”).

In 2014, the band released “Blue Horizon” (Solid Rockhouse Records) to international acclaim. Praised for its stylistic variety and powerful performances, the album features guest artist, Ireland’s Pat McManus, on fiddle for two tracks. “Blue Horizon” also includes two songs written by Aynsley Powell (Andy Powell’s son) and one by former Wishbone Ash guitarist Roger Filgate.

According to Powell, the album’s diversity reflects the culmination of several factors. “The band basically lives together year-round, so we have a very strong level of communication that translates in our performances and recordings,” he says. “We’ve come to an era where the industry has to pigeonhole a band as Classic Rock, Prog Rock, Heritage Rock and so on. The truth is that we have always kept our options open and always relied on the musicianship of the players to lead the way. It’s fun to be stylistically diverse and this has, in its way, contributed to our longevity.”

Powell has been working on his autobiography, “Eyes Wide Open: True Tales of a Wishbone Ash Warrior,” which is slated for October publication and will be available through Amazon. “It’s quite an undertaking to put 46 years of being a touring musician in this one band into book form,” he says. “I’ve seen a lot of changes in the music business and the world in general, as you can imagine.”

There is no other rock band in history that has done more with the twin guitar concept than The Ash. Be sure to catch them on the Road Warriors Tour this September. Tour dates and more information can be found at www.wishboneash.com.

WISHBONE ASH 'ROAD WARRIORS NORTH AMERICA' SEPTEMBER 2015
SEPT. 3 DENVER CO SOILED DOVE
SEPT. 5 WICHITA KS CROWN UPTOWN THEATRE
SEPT. 6 KANSAS CITY MO KNUCKLEHEADS
SEPT. 8 MINNEAPOLIS MN FAMOUS DAVE'S
SEPT. 9 DAVENPORT IA REDSTONE ROOM
SEPT. 10 MILWAUKEE WI PABST THEATRE
SEPT. 11 WOODSTOCK IL WOODSTOCK OPERA HOUSE
SEPT. 12 EDWARDSVILLE IL WILDEY THEATRE
SEPT. 13 EDWARDSVILLE IL WILDEY THEATRE (featuring “Argus Live”)
SEPT. 15 AUBURN HILLS MI CALLAHAN’S
SEPT. 16 CLEVELAND OH BEACHLAND BALLROOM
SEPT. 17 BUFFALO NY SPORTSMEN'S TAVERN
SEPT. 18 BARRIE ONT VIOLET'S VENUE
SEPT. 20 BEACON NY TOWNE CRIER CAFE
SEPT. 21 NEW YORK NY B.B. KING'S
SEPT. 22 FAIRFIELD CT FAIRFIELD THEATRE
SEPT. 23 SELLERSVILLE PA SELLERSVILLE THEATER
SEPT. 24 SHIRLEY MA BULL RUN
SEPT. 25 ALBANY NY VAN DYCK
SEPT. 26 JIM THORPE PA MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE
SEPT. 27 BORDENTOWN NJ RECORD COLLECTOR

North American Booking: Steve Ozark, Ozark Talent, PH: 785-760-3143 OzarkTalent@gmail.com

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com
Marketing & PR assistance: Kate Goldsmith - kate_goldsmith@wishboneash.com

To download electronic press kit: www.wishboneash.com/epk

Classic Rock Premiere Johnny Wore Black's 'Comfy Slippers'

The musical musings Johnny Wore Black an artist who uses words to draw listeners in to his unusual tales to create a powerful and cinematic sound.  No surprise as you might have recently seen this A-list stunt performer playing a Wildling alongside Mastodon on the recent episode of Game of Thrones!

Classic Rock premiered the Comfy Slippers video, making it their 'Track of the Week': http://www.teamrock.com/features/2015-06-05/classic-rock-s-tracks-of-the-week-29

You can also see the stunning animated video for ‘Firefly’ below, with sketchy, monochrome visuals augmenting a classy song about facing your own personal demons head on and the inherent challenges therein. Check the video premiere out on Loudwire: http://loudwire.com/johnny-wore-black-firefly-exclusive-video-premiere/

David Ellefson of Megadeth chose to work alongside Johnny Wore Black on production duties, as did Grammy Award Winner David Bottrill. The fact that such storied veterans of the business believe in the music of Johnny Wore Black goes some way to confirming the potential of this unusually dark artist.

In the words of David Ellefson himself:

“Johnny Wore Black has a very unique sound that I like and as an artist creating a unique sound is one of the hardest things to do, you either have it or you don’t and to me Johnny Wore Black definitely has it.”

Notable collaborators of Johnny Wore Black include Tim Simenon (Bomb The Bass), Danny Langsman (Shanks and Bigfoot), Loretta Heywood (Winter in July), Simon Hutchby & Gez Walton (Earthtone 9) and more.

The singles are both taken from the current Johnny Wore Black album ‘Walking Underwater Part 2’. Available now, it followed debut LP ‘Walking Underwater Part 1’ as a double whammy of albums released in 2014 to excellent reviews. ‘Part 2’ sees Johnny Wore Black continue to evolve his unique energy and song writing style, with an intense, passionate lyrical style.

iTunes link for Walking Underwater Pt 2:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/walking-underwater-pt.-2/id944919571

Further links:

www.johnnyworeblack.com

https://www.facebook.com/johnnyworeblack

https://twitter.com/johnnyworeblack

Gonzo Multimedia To Release “The Boomtown Rats - Live in Germany '78” (DVD/CD) – June 8, 2015

London, UK - Gonzo Multimedia will be releasing an unreleased live DVD/CD by rock legends The Boomtown Rats featuring Bob Geldof titled “Live In Germany '78” on June 8, 2015!

In 1975 friends Garry Roberts, Simon Crowe, Johnnie Moylett, Patrick Cusack and Gerry Cott formed a band in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland. Bob Geldof was originally invited to be the band's manager, but he soon found himself nominated to take on the role of lead vocals by guitarist Garry Roberts, who originally had that job and didn't want it.

The band's early influences were Dr. Feelgood, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Doors and Bob Marley, among many others. Gerry and Pete arranged the band's first gig for Halloween 1975 under the name of The Nightlife Thugs, at the Bolton Street Technical College, where they - and Johnnie, were studying Architectural Technology. Just before the band went on stage, they changed their name to The Boomtown Rats, who were a gang mentioned in Woody Guthrie’s autobiography, “Bound For Glory”.

The Rats were soon causing a buzz throughout the whole of Ireland. In 1976 The Boomtown Rats relocated to England in search of a record deal. They turned down a million pound deal from Richard Branson's Virgin Records, and decided instead to sign for a new label that had been set up by former Phonogram man Nigel Grange and DJ Chris Hill. The new label was called Ensign.

The Boomtown Rats played their first ever UK gig on May 6th. 1977 at the Lodestar Club, Ribchester, Blackburn, Lancashire. The supporting acts were Demolition, and Disco-Punk Chris Graham. Having undertaken a hectic schedule of touring including gigs with Tom Petty, and The Ramones, The Boomtown Rats debut single “Looking After Number One” entered the UK charts in it’s first week of release at No. 78. The NME made it their single of the week. The Rats did their first TV show, a turn on The Marc Bolan Show. Marc tragically died 2 weeks later in a motor accident. “Looking After Number One” peaked at No.11 in the UK charts and The Rats were invited to do their first TOTP appearance. The band had now arrived. The Rats released their debut album, the imaginatively entitled “Boomtown Rats”. The album reached 18 in the UK charts.

In 1978 the single “She's So Modern” reached No.12 in the UK charts, more gigs, more tours, more exposure. Geldof was now becoming as well known for his motor-mouth as he is for his music, picking up the nickname “Bob The Gob” by the music press for his outspoken views. The Rats second album “A Tonic For The Troops” produced by Robert Mutt Lange reaches No.8 in the album charts and hangs around for 44 weeks. There was more TV, a promotional trip to America and November saw The Rats reach the top, when the single “Rat Trap” knocked John Travolta & Olivia Newton John off the No.1 spot.

The Boomtown Rats made history as the first Irish band to have a UK No.1 hit. “Rat Trap” is also recognized as the first New Wave song that made No.1 in the charts. In January 1979 Geldof hears the story on the news of the Californian schoolgirl, Brenda Spencer who shot and killed her principal of the school and injured many of her school mates. When interviewed and asked why she did it, she replied “I Don’t Like Mondays”. This quote proved to be inspirational to Bob Geldof & Johnnie Fingers. The ensuing single became a smash hit world-wide, reaching the No.1 spot in 32 countries and quite rightly became an all-time classic. The Boomtown Rats undertook a world tour, taking in America, Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. The American leg of the tour ended at The Palladium in New York. The Boomtown Rats third album “The Fine Art Of Surfacing” reached No.7 in the UK album charts.

In 1980, a Dublin court canceled a Boomtown Rats concert. Bob Geldof rejected the court's decision and The Boomtown Rats battled on for 2 weeks to be allowed to play in Ireland. The Boomtown Rats held the gig at Leixlip Castle to fourteen thousand fans... with Bob Geldof claiming a Boomtown Rats victory.

In 1981 The Rats recorded their new album “Mondo Bongo” in Ibiza with producer Tony Visconti who had previously produced albums with T Rex, Bowie, Thin Lizzy, The Stranglers, Iggy Pop, to name but a few. The album “Mondo Bongo” went gold again. Now a recurring event for each new Rats album. The album featured the classic hit “Banana Republic” which has been called Ireland's alternative national anthem! Lead guitarist Gerry Cott now left the band, who continued as a 5-piece. Geldof stars in director Alan Parkers classic film of Pink Floyd's The Wall. The Rats tour Thailand, India, Japan,Malaya, Hong Kong and Singapore.

In 1982 a new generation of bands breaks through and The Rats new album “V Deep”, again produced by Visconti becomes The Rats first record setback. The single House On Fire does well in the UK charts. The Rats tour of the UK to promote the album however is a complete sell-out. In 1984 The Rats brilliant single “Drag Me Down” limps into the Top 50.. The Geldof masterpiece “Dave” sinks without trace, although Pete Townsend of The Who said Dave was “the best single of 1984”.

In late October 1984 Geldof watches he Ethiopian famine on the BBC News and decides to “do something”. The other Rats wholeheartedly support him.

In 1985 The Boomtown Rats sing on the Geldof/Midge Ure penned  Band Aid record “Do They Know It's Christmas”. In its first week of release the single became the UK's fastest seller of all time, entering the chart at number one and going on to sell over three million copies, making it the biggest-selling single in UK history up to that point. On July 13th 1985, The Boomtown Rats were just one of the greatest artists in rock 'n roll history to play the Live Aid Concert in front of billions of people.

In 1986 , and so The Boomtown Rats play their last gig in Ireland for Self-Aid.

Unlike 10 years previously when The Rats understood precisely what they stood for, who they were and what their intention were, by '86 this had now become unclear. Where could they go musically after all that had been achieved as a group both musically and socially. There were few battles left to fight that they hadn't already won. And so they went their separate ways.

In 2013 The Boomtown Rats re-group and once again overwhelm the tens of thousands at the Isle of Wight Festival. The songs had not only lasted but had over the years attained a newer relevance and power. Hearing them afresh the critics were amazed at how contemporary the Rats, their music, their songs and their attitude - unchanged after all those years still were. And are!!

And now, comes an unreleased live concert from Germany 1978 on DVD/CD!

Here is the undiluted towering energy, speed, anger and sheer joy of playing in one of the great British/Irish bands of our time at their peak and in their prime.

Tracks:
(It Feels) So Strange
(She's Gonna) Do You In
Banana Republic (Bonus Track)
Close As You'll Ever Be
Do The Rat
Don't Believe What You Read
House on Fire (Bonus Track)
It's All The Rage
Joey's On The Street Again
Kicks
Lookin' After No. 1
Mary of the 4th Form
Neon Heart
Never Bite The Hand That Feeds
Rat Trap
She's So Modern

For more information: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15843

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

Classic Rock Guitar Legend Pat Travers Blasts Into The Stratosphere With A Brand New Studio Album, Retro Rocket!

Los Angeles, CA - Even after three and half decades of smoking hot guitar licks, powerful vocal performances, and just plain kick ass, foot stomping rock & roll, legendary guitar slinger Pat Travers is still firing on all boosters! Fresh off the Rock Legends Cruise in February, Travers takes the helm of another ship with Retro Rocket, a powerful new album of studio recordings to be released by Purple Pyramid Records on March 17. Then, he’ll hit the road again with his superb band playing shows across the U.S. throughout March and April.

As its name suggests, Retro Rocket finds Travers digging deep into the early years of his outstanding career, finding inspiration in the fiery grooves of 1978’s Heat In The Street and, of course, his monumental 1979 live album Go For What You Know. The lead off track, “I Always Run,” kicks things into high gear with a multi-layered, guitar chugging hard rock thumper that shows this veteran rocker isn’t about to slow his pace. And even when things do slow down, like the first half of the gospel-tinged “Who Can You Turn To,” it turns out to be mere build up to a massive climax of shredding solos, monster drum fills, and all out frenzied rock ecstasy. Travers’ voice shines throughout the album, seeming to only get better, more raw, more passionate with age; must be all that cocaine drinkin’ and whiskey snortin’! When you’ve had a career as long and as rich as Travers, to be releasing an album with this much energy and passion is quite a feat indeed, and hard rock fans young and old should not miss this ride of a lifetime!

After releasing a trio of releases hailed as some of the slickest and hottest guitar-rock albums ever - the aforementioned classics of ’78 & ’79 plus the 1980 blockbuster Crash And Burn - Canadian-born Pat Travers would go on to deliver classy melodic rock throughout the ‘80s, followed by a blues period in the ‘90s, and into the new millennium with several unique projects both solo and band efforts. Cited by Metallica’s Kirk Hammett as one of his favorite guitarist, the Travers legend and influence extends beyond the barriers of time, place, or genre. His live shows continue to impress, deftly balancing old favorites with fresh new material. Retro Rocket carries on Travers’ proud tradition of seriously passionate musical prowess mixed with pure, unadulterated fun!

Order the CD version: http://geni.us/39KW
Order the Vinyl version: http://geni.us/1Kwn
Download the album on iTunes: http://geni.us/2yn6

1. I Always Run
2. Searching For A Clue
3. Who Can You Turn To
4. Up Is Down
5. Mystery At The Wrecking Yard
6. You Can’t Get Their From Hare
7. I Am Alive
8. I Wanna Be Free
9. Hellbound Train
10. Looking Up (Live) [CD ONLY]
BONUS TRACK [CD ONLY]
11. Lead Me Home (Theme from The Walking Dead)

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

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

Classic Rock Legends Wishbone Ash To Undertake Pilgrimage North America Tour!

Tour to span West Coast, South in April/May 2015

Wishbone Ash, one of the most influential guitar bands in the history of rock, returns to these shores in April 2015 for the first leg of their Pilgrimage North America Tour. Following spring and fall tours in 2014 that featured the group's best-selling “Live Dates” album, this year Wishbone Ash will present classics spanning their 46-year career and showcase selections from their latest release, “Blue Horizon.”

After logging more than 20,000 miles touring North America last year, the group will begin their 2015 spring tour in Vancouver, British Columbia, winding down the West Coast of the US and then heading across the South – hitting cities that include Portland, Seattle, Oakland, San Juan Capistrano, Ramona, Phoenix, Austin and Dallas. Visit www.wishboneash.com/tourdates for the complete schedule.

“The 'Live Dates Tour' went just great,” says bandleader and founding member Andy Powell. “To play Texas and California out West, and Mississippi in the Deep South, for example, was really nice. You realize just how popular guitar-based rock is in these places. We aim to repeat the experience and build on it this year.”

The title of the 2015 tour is a nod to the Wishbone Ash's beloved “Pilgrimage” album, but it's also a fitting way to describe what has become an annual journey filled with familiar faces and places. “Each year when we tour countries on our world circuit, these visits feel like pilgrimages to all our old haunts,” says Powell. “We visit venues we've performed in multiple times over the years. We know the staff there, we often stay in the same hotels, visit the same restaurants, we see the same folks thousands of miles apart. The fans, of course, are the major component. We catch up on their stories and their lives.”

In 2014, Wishbone Ash released “Blue Horizon” (Solid Rockhouse Records) to international acclaim. Praised for its stylistic variety and masterful performances, the album features guest artist, Ireland's Pat McManus, on fiddle for two tracks. “Blue Horizon” also includes two songs written by Aynsley Powell (Andy Powell's son) and one by former Wishbone Ash guitarist Roger Filgate.

According to Powell, the album's diversity reflects the culmination of several factors. “The band basically lives together year-round, so we have a very strong level of communication that translates in our performances and recordings,” he says. “We've come to an era where the industry has to pigeonhole a band as Classic Rock, Prog Rock, Heritage Rock and so on. The truth is that we have always kept our options open and always relied on the musicianship of the players to lead the way. It's fun to be stylistically diverse and this has, in its way, contributed to our longevity.”

While they're making pilgrimages to various parts of the globe, Wishbone Ash will undertake some live recording projects, as well: one a vinyl-only limited release direct from Metropolis Studios in Chiswick, London; another to be recorded over a three-day residency at Le Triton in Paris for a DVD release.

Powell also plans to publish his autobiography this fall. “It's quite an undertaking to put 45 years of being a touring musician in this one band into book form,” he says.

Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash has to its credit 24 original studio recordings, 10 live albums and four live DVDs along with a DVD rockumentary (“This is Wishbone Ash”). The band is led by founding member Andy Powell on guitar and vocals, trading licks with Finland’s guitar wizard Muddy Manninen. Bassist Bob Skeat, an 18-year veteran of the band and in-demand studio musician, sets the pace with Joe Crabtree, one of the best of Britain’s new breed of drummers whose performance credits include Pendragon and David Cross of King Crimson.

Lynyrd Skynyrd cites Wishbone Ash as a primary influence on their style along with Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden and, more recently, heavyweights like Opeth. All have been transformed by the original, legendary twin-guitar approach of Wishbone Ash. There is no other rock band in history that has done more with the twin guitar concept than The Ash.

Longtime fans and new converts will find that Wishbone Ash offers an undeniable concert experience.

Tour dates and more information can be found at www.wishboneash.com .
To download electronic press kit: www.wishboneash.com/epk

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com
Interview requests: Kate Goldsmith, kate_goldsmith@wishboneash.com
North American Booking: Steve Ozark, Ozark Talent (785) 760-3143, OzarkTalent@gmail.com