Progressive/Symphonic Rock Review: Karnataka-Secrets of Angels

Release Date: 30^thMarch 2015

Label:  Immrama Records

Website

The new album from the band Karnataka, Secrets of Angels, has just landed on the review desk and is album No 5 from the band. The debut album was Karnataka(1998), followed by The Storm (2000), then Delicate Flame of Desire (2003) and finally, The Gathering Light(2010). Not the most prolific band, with 7 years between albums 3 and 4 and then a further 5 years between 4 and 5. One reason may be the ever changing personnel within the band. Ian Jones is the only original member of Karnataka from the mid 90’s, and while the same band members recorded Karnataka and The Storm, there was a change for Delicate Flame of Desire, with another female voice added (Anne-Marie Helder) as well as a female guest (Heather Findlay). The Gathering found only Ian still present, Lisa Fury as the vocalist, and new drummer, bass player and keyboard player. 

Secrets of Angels was made with Karnataka as a 5 piece group comprising, Ian Jones (bass keyboards and guitar), Hayley Griffiths (vocals), Enrico Pinna (guitars and vocals), Cagri Tozluoglu (keyboards) and Jimmy Palagrossi (drums). Enrico was also part of the band for the previous album. There is a few guest musicians involved as well. Troy Donockley adds Uilleann Pipes and low whistles, Seana Davey adds harp and Rachel van der Tang and Clive Howard from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra add cello and viola respectively.

The album, Secrets of Angels, is an 8 track album with a running time just under an hour. The shortest track on offer is “Poison Ivy” with a playing time of 4:14 minutes and the longest track is the closing, title track “Secrets of Angels” with a running time of 20:00 minutes.

The opening track, “Road to Cairo” (5:27) races out of the speakers and grabs you firmly by both ears. With a violin introduction, the track then moves into a heavy riff which conjures up little aural glimpses of Kashmir from the Led Zeppelin album, Physical Graffiti. The vocals of Hayley tower over this eastern tinged stunner. What a superb opening track which certainly makes you start to savor what other gems this album has in store.

“Because of You” (4:43) has a gentle piano intro into more of the heaviness, with riffs and orchestral thundering. Crystal clear vocals by Hayley soar with seemingly no effort and carry the track onwards. There is more emotional depth to this track than the previous one, and again a piece of music that hits the “sweet spot” in your mind.

“Poison Ivy” (4:14) fires up with more or the thunderous orchestral sweeps and maintains its pace throughout its 4+ minutes. Track No 4, “Forbidden Dreams” (5:48) is a more laid back entity, at least for Karnataka, and is memorable for that alone. A dip into the heavier, more powerful style of band statement takes the track onwards and embeds the melody deep within your mind. 

“Borderline” (6:19) has a hugely atmospheric start, all dark and ominous, before Hayley’s voice demands attention, all the while backed by almost malevolent strings. The powerhouse of the band, the drums and bass are very obvious on this track. This is another stunningly memorable addition to the album.

“Fairytale Lies” (4:58) is a real change into the land of the ballad, with piano and strings. Hayley’s voice is so clear and powerful, and although the intensity of the track builds rises and falls, the lasting impression is of the gentler side of the band.

The penultimate track, “Feels Like Home” (7:06) has a theme plucked on the harp and when the voice kicks in, you relax into familiar Karnataka territory, although in this track the dark, ominous and malevolent soundscapes are omitted. Replacing these facets is an almost uplifting style of music, but I must admit that these last 2 tracks have not had the same impact that the previous tracks have had.

The finale to the album is the epic length title track, “Secrets of Angels” (20:00). Celtic sounds abound at the start of the track, courtesy of one, Troy Donockley from Nightwish, and an amazing aural soundscape is produced. The voice, when it appears, fits the storytelling scenario like a glove. Tension builds, heralded by the entry of some percussion, and you await the change happening, but you are kept waiting until about the 4 minute mark, when the full symphonic rock of Karnataka is unleashed. The track pulsates this way and that as it passes through each of its’ seven phases, allowing the band members to showcase their skills. A big plus point with “Secrets of Angels” is that the music flows seamlessly through all of its phases whether a full band workout or gentle Celtic areas, and there is always the little theme from the intro putting in an appearance in different ways. This is a true tour-de-force that ends the album on a majestic note.

This album, Secrets of Angels is a superb release and shows that Karnataka have undergone a slow evolution to get to this point. With so many personnel changes this achievement has certainly had obstacles to overcome, but I think that it is safe to say, that the band of Hayley, Ian, Enrico, Cagri and Jimmy, have finally “nailed it.”

My advice is very simple, and that is to listen to the epic final track, “Secrets of Angels” and you will soon be on your way to purchase the album. This is one of the best albums that I have heard so far this year, and I have heard a lot of albums this year.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Road To Cairo, Borderline, Secrets of Angels

Tracks: 
Road To Cairo
Because of You
Poison Ivy
Forbidden Dreams
Borderline
Fairytale Lies
Feels Like Home
Secrets of Angels

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

June 22, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Alt-Rogue-Folk-Rock Group Yeti Love To Release New Single On June 15th

Folk duo from south set to release their latest new single, ‘Lonely Road’, is set for release on June 15^th, and you can hear it here.

https://soundcloud.com/yetilovemusic/lonely-road-radio-edit

The pair have labelled their unique combination as ‘alt-rogue-folk-rock’, which is as fitting a description as any. Based in South London, they have been playing together since 2012 and ‘Lonely Road’ is the latest fruit of their labours.

In the years since their foundation, Yeti Love have been slowly building in following an momentum thanks to their thoughtful songwriting and eye catching live show, which has earned them some fantastic coverage for their work up until this point. The buzz is building, and in ‘Lonely Road’ they have the right vehicle to continue on that journey

If you want to see the band they have lots of upcoming tour dates:

Live Dates:

May 13th - Red Lion Godalming

May 21st- Kings Head Guildford

June 4th  Shortlands Tavern London

June 6th  Matthews Yard  Croydon

June 11th  Pelton Arms Greenwich

June 19th Barge Inn Wiltshire

June 21st  The Acoustic Solstice et la fete de la musique   Batley Yorkshire

July 12th  One Summers Day Festival  Guilford 

August 29th  Airballoon Garden Party Coulsdon 

For more information on the band check them out here:

Links:

http://yetilovemusic.com/yl/

https://www.facebook.com/Yetilovemusic

https://soundcloud.com/yetilovemusic

Yeti Love Sensational New Single ‘Lonely Road’ + Tour Dates

Yeti Love are a folk duo made up of songwriters Peter Hamilton and Dave sears are about to release their cracking new single 'Lonely Road' on 15th June!

Hamilton is also influenced by his own ancestry, being half Spanish and, at a young age, falling in love with the folk traditions of home town Galicia. Having started out as a drummer before expanding his own musical horizons, his love of rhythm was informed by this specific branch of celtic roots music. Married to Sears’ intricate, multi-instrumental approach, the result is a hybrid sound unlike any other act on the circuit today.

New single, ‘Lonely Road’, is set for release on June 15^th, and you can hear it here.

https://soundcloud.com/yetilovemusic/lonely-road-radio-edit

The pair have labelled their unique combination as ‘alt-rogue-folk-rock’, which is as fitting a description as any. Based in South London, they have been playing together since 2012 and ‘Lonely Road’ is the latest fruit of their labours.

 Live Dates:

May 13th - Red Lion Godalming

May 21st- Kings Head Guildford

June 4th  Shortlands Tavern London

June 6th  Matthews Yard  Croydon

June 11th  Pelton Arms Greenwich

June 19th Barge Inn Wiltshire

June 21st  The Acoustic Solstice et la fete de la musique   Batley Yorkshire

July 12th  One Summers Day Festival  Guilford 

August 29th  Airballoon Garden Party Coulsdon

Links:

http://yetilovemusic.com/yl/

https://www.facebook.com/Yetilovemusic

https://soundcloud.com/yetilovemusic

UK Country Rock Band Quill Featuring Bev Bevan of ELO, The Move and Black Sabbath to Release New Album “Brush With The Moon”

Birmingham, UK - QUILL is a well-established, 7-piece country/folk/rock band based in Birmingham, England, from the same stable as ELO, Black Sabbath, The Moody Blues, Led Zeppelin, Christine McVie (Fleetwood Mac) and more, have been wowing audiences for many years. In the past, all of these musicians played in and around Birmingham and kept in touch with each other.

Says lead singer Joy Strachan–Brain, “ 'Brush With The Moon' is Quill's first album to be released Worldwide and we are excited!!Until 2012, Quill was one of the busiest gigging bands in the UK, just getting out there and making music. Our self-penned album 'Privileged' sums up how we felt, doing a job we loved, visiting interesting countries , meeting amazing people and making music.”

The band's new album “Brush With The Moon” is a collection of songs written by the late BEN BRAIN. Ben was bass player and husband to Quill's lead singer Joy Strachan–Brain. He left a legacy of wonderful songs and inspired by Jeff Lynne's use of John Lennon’s demos on “Free as a bird”, Quill was moved to use Ben's vocals and original demos to create this new album. “Brush with the Moon” is a tribute to Ben and has truly been a labor of love.

Featuring respected musicians: Bev Bevan (ELO, Black Sabbath), Brian Tatler (Diamond Head), Tony Kelsey (who has played guitar with Robert Plant, Stevie Winwood, Jim Capaldi) and Matt Davies (well respected bass player and vocalist) along with band members Joy Strachan-Brain, Dave Bailey, Kate McWilliam and Tim Tandler

Bev Bevan commented, “Over the years I have always been an admirer of Quill. I was particularly a fan of Joy, the lead singer, who I considered to be the best female singer around the Midlands area. When I was asked to put a band together for a national tour called 'Stand up and Rock and found that the show needed a female lead vocalist, I immediately asked Joy to be part of it and she agreed. Since then 'Stand up and Rock' has become one of the most successful shows around with sell out tours around Great Britain. About a year ago I joined Quill as percussionist (being a drummer, I have always also liked playing percussion instruments too and have done so in the studio with The Move, ELO, Black Sabbath and Jose Feliciano). It's great to be doing it live on stage now, and playing drums on some songs too. The line up has changed since I joined and the band now has a more folk and country rockier edge to it. The band is also now concentrating on just theatre shows and festivals and I'm very proud to be part of it and delighted to be on this current , newly released album 'Brush With The Moon'. Joy and I are writing songs together and we are looking forward to recording tracks for another album to be released later this year.”

Ben Brain was not only a fantastic wordsmith and performer, but a well respected artist. All of the album artwork consists of Ben's sketches, which accompany his handwritten lyrics. All of Ben's drawings seemed appropriate for the “Brush With The Moon” digipak artwork. The front cover is a water colour painting Ben had produced depicting the songs on the album. Additional artwork contribution to the album was from Ben's daughter, Jenna Swann.

Featuring
JOY STRACHAN-BRAIN (lead vocals)
KATE McWILLIAM (violin/vocals)
DAVE BAILEY (keyboards/acoustic guitar/vocals)
TIM TANDLER (drums/percussion)
BEV BEVAN (drums/percussion)
MATT DAVIES (bass guitar/vocals)
TONY KELSEY (guitar/mandolin/vocals)

Tracks:
1. Quicksilver
2. Tumbling Years
3. Schoolyard
4. Poppy Fields
5. Nine Mile Camp
6. England
7. Hollywood Blue
8. Wedding Dress
9. Twister
10. Man In White

To purchase Quill's “Brush With The Moon”:
Amazon: http://geni.us/h5Y
iTunes: http://geni.us/2CPd

QUILL is enjoying performing to sell-out shows throughout the UK, taking the audience on an exciting and emotional journey that features songs from an album that the audience can relate to.

Quill tour dates
Acoustic Festival of GB - June 21, 2015, Uttoxeter Racecourse Wood Lane ST14
www.acousticfestival.co.uk
Americana Festival - July 12, 2015, Loughborough Road Loughborough LE12
www.americana-international.co.uk
Robin 2 - August 1, 2015,
Artrix Theatre - August 15, 2015, Bromsgrove Highway Bromsgrove B60
www.artrix.co.uk
Abbey Theatre - September 26, 2015, Abbey Green Nuneaton CV11
www.abbeytheatre.co.uk
Prince of Wales Theatre - October 9, 2015, Arts Centre Cannock WS11 1DE
www.wict.org/cannock/theatre
Assembly Rooms - November 7, 2015, 1 Mill Street Ludlow
www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall - December 4, 2015, Upper Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B73 6AB
Huntingdon Hall - December 11, 2015, Crowngate shopping Centre Worcester
www.worcesterlive.co.uk

Watch the promotional video:

Official Website: www.quilluk.com

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

10,000 Maniacs Announce Official Release Date Of Their New Album And Offer A Sneak Peek!

Jamestown, NY - Having conquered the alternative rock world with multi-platinum selling albums and unforgettable singles such as “These Are Days,” 10,000 Maniacs are about to release the most ambitious album of their career, a full-length collection of traditional British Isles folk songs, titled 'Twice Told Tales', newly interpreted by the band whose organic, neo-folk sound has influenced countless others. The official street date for the album is April 28 and will be made available on both CD as well as a special 180-gram 12” vinyl format from Cleopatra Records!

Founding member and keyboardist Dennis Drew explains the germination of the project, “Folk music of all types has been a strong influence on the band. One of the songs on the new record 'Do You Love An Apple' has been in our repertoire for 30 years. We've also recorded Carter family songs and other American, Irish and British Folk music in the past.” With that experience under wing, the group set out to create an entire album's worth of modern versions of traditional British folk classics that would fit right alongside the rest of the 10,000 Maniacs' body of work. “These are timeless melodies,” Drew continues, “Some songs are funny, some are heartbreaking. Most are 100, 200, 300 years old. It's crazy how they can be turned into 21st century pop songs!”

For a taste of what fans have in store, the band is streaming one full song from the new album, a delightful Irish rhyme “Misty Moisty Morning,” on Soundcloud.

Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs/05-misty-moisty-morning/

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

10,000 Maniacs Announce Official Release Date Of Their New Album And Offer A Sneak Peek!

Jamestown, NY - Having conquered the alternative rock world with multi-platinum selling albums and unforgettable singles such as “These Are Days,” 10,000 Maniacs are about to release the most ambitious album of their career, a full-length collection of traditional British Isles folk songs, titled 'Twice Told Tales', newly interpreted by the band whose organic, neo-folk sound has influenced countless others. The official street date for the album is April 28 and will be made available on both CD as well as a special 180-gram 12” vinyl format from Cleopatra Records!

Founding member and keyboardist Dennis Drew explains the germination of the project, “Folk music of all types has been a strong influence on the band. One of the songs on the new record 'Do You Love An Apple' has been in our repertoire for 30 years. We've also recorded Carter family songs and other American, Irish and British Folk music in the past.” With that experience under wing, the group set out to create an entire album's worth of modern versions of traditional British folk classics that would fit right alongside the rest of the 10,000 Maniacs' body of work. “These are timeless melodies,” Drew continues, “Some songs are funny, some are heartbreaking. Most are 100, 200, 300 years old. It's crazy how they can be turned into 21st century pop songs!”

For a taste of what fans have in store, the band is streaming one full song from the new album, a delightful Irish rhyme “Misty Moisty Morning,” on Soundcloud.

Listen here:

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

Folk/Prog Rock Review: Dave Bainbridge-Celestial Fire

Release Date:  24^th November 2014

Label:  Open Sky Records

Website

This is an interesting release for review, as I have recently reviewed the live Iona release, and Dave is a member of that particular band. This is the second solo release by Iona’s co-founder, Dave Bainbridge, following on from Veil of Gossamer (2004) and is titled Celestial Fire. The impetus for Celestial Fire comes from the excitement and exhilaration Dave received when listening to his early musical heroes, including, Yes, Gentle Giant, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Curved Air, Clannad, Deep Purple, Mike Oldfield and many more.

The sound of Celestial Fire encompasses an array of soundscapes, Celtic, progressive, spiritual and folk rock, and according to the press release, “a larger than usual dollop of what some might term progressive rock type musical adventuring.”

As Celestial Fireis a solo album, there are many excellent musicians making guest appearances across the album. Dave plays, 6 and 12 string guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, piano, organ, keyboards, autoharp, finger cymbals, Darbukka (Middle Eastern drum), Chimes, Indian leg bells, beer shaker, tambourine and, if that wasn’t enough, contributes to the backing vocals. The guests include, and I will only mention a few of the 19 musicians involved, Colin Leijenaar (drums, mellotron choir), Randy George (bass), Damien Wilson and Joanne Hogg (vocals), Troy Donockley (Uilean pipes, various whistles), David Fitzgerald (tin whistle, flute, Chinese flute, and soprano, alto, tenor, baritone saxophones) and Frank van Essen (string ensemble, solo viola, solo violin).

Celestial Fireis a 10 track album with a playing time of around 74 minutes. There are four tracks with running times in excess of 10 minutes, with the title track, “Celestial Fire” the longest at 15:22 minutes and the other tracks fall into the 6 minute or under category. The two shortest tracks are linked, track 1 and track 9, “Heavenfield” and “Heavenfield Reprise” lasting 1:10 and 0:46 minutes respectively.

The opening track, “Heavenfeld” (1:10) has a very Celtic feel to it with the Uilean pipes very prominent playing a haunting theme, which only lasts for just over a minute but is an excellent beginning to the album.

The Title track “Celestial Fire” (15:22) starts with a band tour-de-force, including some stinging guitar work, driving the track from the start. As the starting sound fades into some background atmospheric sounds, a female voice is heard away in the distance, before becoming richer and more powerful. The male and female voices join leading into a passage of superb acoustic guitar and keyboards. If it is possible for a track to merge the elements of rock while retaining a dream-like state at the same time, this track does just that. Uilean pipes continue the Celtic soundscape with a slow, almost somber passage which evolves back into the rock area again. There is more time for the excellent guitar work to be given a little spotlight. The track moves effortlessly between the out and out rock style, with amazing duets, to the more atmospheric passages throughout its 15 min length and is the type of track that demands the replay button get pressed.

 

“See What I See” (6:03) continues the rock/atmospheric scenario before “The First Autumn” (4:03) arrives as a haunting ballad fronted by one of the guest female vocalists.  Track 5, “For Such A Time As This” (10:30) is another of the extended tracks, with piano introduction, interspersed with soaring guitar and full band “chunks,” which instantly brings the ears to attention. Touches of the fusion and jazz/rock associated with the Mahavishnu Orchestra (circa Birds of Fire) pepper this workout and there is a superb, if unexpected, acoustic passage to calm the driving rock which then returns to carry the track out.

“Innocence Found” (5:48) returns to the very Celtic sounding soundscape but replaces the Uilean pipes with guitar and is another hauntingly atmospheric piece of magic. The 13+ minutes of “Love Remains” revisits the jazz/rock arena and even hints at Yes styled guitar passages, throws in ethereal vocalizations and majestic synth passages as it ebbs and flows, with the guitar passage around the 10 minute mark being simply stunning, prior to the full blooded outro of the track. 

“In The Moment” (14:20) is a superb track, filled with atmosphere, as the track builds, edging at times toward the sound of Iona, and seems to undulate along for the opening 5 minutes before a rougher, more powerful style takes over, including some excellent keyboard work. Around the 9 minute point the track moves into a rockier context, with the guitar soaring above all, before there is a keyboard passage which just “nails it.” After looking as if the ending was going to be building up and then out, the sound drops away and the ending is very gentle.

“Heavenfield (reprise)” (0:46) is just that and flows into the last track, “On the Edge of Glory” (3:05) which features those Uilean pipes, and is a haunting track, stunning in its simplicity. The sound builds around the 1:30 minute point with harmonized vocals augmenting the melody of the pipes. This is an unbelievably poignant ending to what is a stunningly amazing album.

Take one excellent musician/composer, add the Celtic foundations of Iona, allow the artist to expand into prog rock and jazz fusion areas at times, surround said musician/composer with an amalgamation of skillful musicians as support and you have produced Celestial Fire, a stunning album that you should not hesitate to add to your collection. 

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Celestial Fire, For Such A Time As This, On The Edge Of Glory

Tracks:
Heavenfield
Celestial Fire
See What I See
The First Autumn
For Such A Time As This
Innocence Found
Love Remains
In The Moment
Heavenfield (reprise)
On The Edge Of Glory

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

February 2, 2015

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Rock Fusion Review: Dave Matthews Band-Recently – Two 10” 180 Gram Vinyl EPs

Release Date: November 28, 2014

Label: Legacy

Website

For the vinyl lovers of Earth, Record Store Day is an amazing time filled with limited edition vinyl releases from some of our favorite bands. And not only do we get one day in April, but we get a second day on Black Friday. The Dave Matthews Band has been a part of Record Store Day for a few years now, releasing their Live Trax series in chronological order. However, on Black Friday 2014, DMB rolled out a very special 10” 180 gram vinyl edition of their first EP Recently, along with a second disc containing the hard to find “Pumpkin Recently” Promo EP. It comes in a gatefold jacket with the two different covers, and you will find a download code on the inside so you can get MP3 version of the music as well. A nice little surprise, considering this may be one of the only ways fans will get the Promo EP in any form.

Although many of the songs found on the EP can be heard on their debut album Remember Two Things, there is still plenty to be enjoyed from here from fans and collectors alike. For instance, there are two different edits of the title track. There is a radio edit of “Tripping Billies” that chops nearly 4 minutes off the Remember Two Things version, but still retains what I would consider essential listening material, including Carter Beauford’s phenomenal drum skills. Intimate acoustic versions of “Warehouse” and “Dancing Nancies” show these tracks in some of their earliest incarnations before making the big time on DMB’s major label release Under the Table and Dreaming. Finally, explosive versions of “All Along the Watchtower” and “Halloween” showcase the raw talent of the band even in their earliest days.

Aside from being a cool collector’s item (and the easiest way to snatch up the rare Promo EP), DMB’s vinyl release of Recently is an incredible value. Two 180 gram 10” records, a nice gatefold jacket, an MP3 download code, and over 40 minutes of breathtaking music make this an item fans shouldn’t miss. The price may seem a bit steep, but it is well worth it.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Halloween, Tripping Billies,  Warehouse

Tracks:
Original EP
01.Recently (Edit 2)
02.Dancing Nancies
03.Warehouse
04.All Along the Watchtower
05.Halloween

Tracks 2 and 3 are live acoustic versions performed by Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds.

Promo EP
01.Recently (Radio Edit)
02.Ants Marching (Radio Edit)
03.Tripping Billies (Remember Two Things Radio Edit)
04.The Song That Jane Likes (Radio Edit)
 

Austin Hannaleck-Write A Music Review Contributor

January 18, 2015

Review Provided By Write A Music

Rock-Folk Review: Dave Matthews Band-Under The Table and Dreaming

Release Date: November 24, 2014

Label: Legacy

Website

It’s been an exciting year for Dave Matthews Band fans. There have been 4 Live Trax albums, a reissue of Remember Two Things on both CD and 180-gram vinyl, and a reissue of DMB’s major label debut, Under the Table and Dreaming on CD and vinyl as well. Although there has been quite an uproar as to when the vinyl will be arriving on people’s doorsteps (as of now, the DMB store says December 16^th), the CD has arrived and listeners have had plenty of time to dig in.

One thing that continuously amazes me when I listen to the Dave Matthews Band is how they have crafted their own unique sound right from the beginning. This album doesn’t sound old or dated, simply because there is nothing else quite like it and there is not much else to compare it to. The album has a theme that shifts back and forth between the typical carefree style of DMB (“The Best of What’s Around”, “Jimi Thing”) and the tense (“Typical Situation”, “Rhyme and Reason”). The lyrical content seems to sway between the serious, the reflective and the borderline foolishness, which gives enough variety to keep things interesting.

One thing that really draws me into reissues is bonus tracks. Reissues are a great opportunity to hear some unreleased content from the old days, but this the album doesn’t deliver on this opportunity as much as I would have expected it to. Yes, “Granny” is one of my favorite DMB tracks and I’m glad to finally have a studio version of it. However, the other two acoustic tracks are slightly underwhelming. I do love the intimate feel of the acoustic renditions of “The Song That Jane Likes” and “Dancing Nancies,” but I can’t help but feel like I have heard these versions in some shape or form. It probably would have been much more enticing to include other studio outtakes, like “Get in Line” or “Kind Intentions (#32).” Of course, I can find them on YouTube, but I would much rather have them on CD or vinyl.

There isn’t a huge difference between this remastered mix and the original. When listening to them side by side, nothing really pops up as noticeably different. The guitars may sound a little “wider’” for lack of a better term, or my ears are just playing tricks on me. The point is the new mix isn’t a good selling point. Another thing I would like to mention is I, along with the rest of the DMB fanbase, can’t seem to understand why they would use an alternate version of “Jimi Thing,” which omits the outro solo by the phenomenal LeRoi Moore. It sounds downright empty to anyone who has heard the original, not to mention it is insulting to the late saxophone player, being such a huge part of the signature DMB sound.

If you haven’t already heard UTTAD, there is no better opportunity than now. Newer fans have a chance to hear the album with a few extra cuts that are by no means bad. However, for diehard fans hoping for something new, this reissue is a bit disappointing. Aside from “Granny,” there is nothing to really make this worth another purchase for those who own the original. For a 20^thanniversary release, this landmark album deserves far better.

3/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Dancing Nancies, Ants Marching, Granny

Tracks:
01. The Best of What's Around
02. What Would You Say   
03. Satellite   
04. Rhyme & Reason   
05. Typical Situation
06. Dancing Nancies   
07. Ants Marching
08. Lover Lay Down   
09. Jimi Thing
10. Warehouse   
11. Pay for What You Get
12. #34    5:00   
13. Granny   
14. Dancing Nancies (Acoustic Version)   
15. The Song That Jane Likes (Acoustic Version)

Austin Hannaleck-Write A Music Review Contributor

December 18, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Cleopatra Records Signs Alternative Folk Rock Heroes 10,000 Maniacs!

Los Angeles, CA - With nearly 10 million albums sold, 10,000 Maniacs are one of the most successful bands to emerge out of the college alternative rock explosion of the mid-‘80s. For over 30 years, they’ve watched their musical influence pass from generation to generation of neo-folk upstarts who, like the Maniacs themselves, sought out the warm organic soul of rock music amidst a cold, cacophonous digital mainstream. Now the group has just signed with a new label, L.A.-based indie Cleopatra Records, and is about to release the most ambitious album of their career, a full-length collection of their interpretations of traditional British Isles folk songs, titled Twice Told Tales. Scheduled for release in April of 2015, this new project digs deep into the historical roots of not just the Maniacs’ own sound but Western music generally, and finds the band at the very top of their musical, melodic game.

Founded in beautiful Jamestown NY in 1981, 10,000 Maniacs quickly coalesced around keyboardist Dennis Drew, bassist Steve Gustafson, drummer Jerry Augustyniak, guitarist Robert Buck, guitarist/vocalist John Lombardo, and a young soon-to-be superstar vocalist Natalie Merchant. The group released a series of critically-acclaimed albums through the ‘80s but catapulted into the rock stratosphere with the major hit single “These Are The Days” from the multi-platinum selling album Our Time In Eden. When Merchant departed after the equally well-received 1993 release, MTV Unplugged, the group continued on with violist Mary Ramsey on lead vocals and John Lombardo, who had left the group in 1986, returning to the fold. Through the rest of the ‘90s and into the new millennium, the band remained very active performing live shows with a variety of line-ups, most notably with a new guitarist Jeff Erickson replacing founding member Robert Buck, who passed away in 2000. In 2013, the Maniacs finally returned to the studio for their first album of new music in 14 years. Buoyed by the success of that album, the group once again saw founding member John Lombardo return, and together they conceived the Twice Told Tales project, which has already gained a considerable buzz among the 10KM fanbase. Cleopatra Records is proud to be partnering with such an enduring and beloved band, and hopes to see this important project usher in a new era of success for these well-deserving Maniacs.

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

NEW RELEASE! Trini Lopez, “At PJ's” Special 50th Anniversary Numbered Limited Edition on 200g Vinyl

"...raw, energetic, live music - this is Trini at his absolute best…Wonderful songs, brilliantly performed that STAND THE TEST OF TIME...”

Hollywood, CA - Exhibit Records announces the release of a Special 50th Anniversary Numbered Limited Edition album of Trini Lopez, "At PJ’s." The 200 gram vinyl record is beautifully presented in a sturdy old style gatefold jacket featuring the original album art work and for the first time includes the lyrics to all the tunes. The back of each album is foil-stamped with its unique number.

With the release of this album in April 1963 Trini Lopez became one of the biggest singing stars of the Folk Revival. Trini Lopez, "At PJ's" made it to #2 on the Billboard charts and stayed in the Top 40 for over a year. The album included the chart-topping "If I Had a Hammer" which reached number one in 36 countries and was a radio favorite for many years. The hit single sold more than 4 million copies and the album sold over a million and was awarded a gold record.

This was the album that made Lopez an instant success and the live party-a-go-go atmosphere of the record did much to put Trini's likable energy over the top. What Lopez did, at the head of a trio was to make folk-pop swing. Other songs include "This Land Is Your Land," and "Gotta Travel On." It could be surmised that by treating such material in this fashion, Lopez had a tiny influence upon the subsequent folk-rock movement...though, Lopez was more the all-around entertainer with a Latin lilt than he was a pure folk singer, so you also get "America" (from West Side Story), "La Bamba," Ray Charles' "What'd I Say," "Volare," and "When the Saints Go Marching In."

The emergent Exhibit Records has rapidly curated an eclectic catalog of classic recordings and gaining notice for exquisite mastering, high quality pressings and detail to the fine art of exceptional package design.

TRINI LOPEZ, "AT PJ’s" (eXLP1- 44069)
Producer: Don Costa
Recorded at PJ's nightclub, West Hollywood, California

Mastered for this LP by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio
Pressed at Quality Record Pressings, Salina, KS

Side One:
A-me-ri-ca
If I Had a Hammer
Bye Bye Blackbird
Cielito Lindo
This Land Is Your Land
What'd I Say

Side Two:
La Bamba
Granada
MEDLEY:
  Gotta Travel On
  Down by the Riverside
  Marianne
  When the Saints Go Marching In
  Volare
Unchain My Heart

Exhibit Records
8491 Sunset Blvd., #174, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (323) 692-1097
www.exhibitrecords.com, info@exhibitrecords.com

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

Folk-Pop Review: Joseph Eid-Human

Release Date: Nov 19, 2013

Label: Indie

Website

Joseph Eid’s voice is one you can immediately find common ground with. His style is direct but it eases you into his words on his first full album title Human. Eid’s warm inviting style makes his music easy to digest.

Although the foundation of what he presents is folk-pop he offers up some diverse arrays of sounds like the reggae inflected “Something Real.” (watch the video provided)

Eid has a good grip on his own world and reality. He wears his heart on his sleeve but still comes across with a good sense of humor. The simplicity and country feel of “The Rock” hits you right in the heart and the words permeate your soul with truth. The sing/talk reprise of the track is excellent as well.

While listening I knew Eid reminded me of a few artists I was fond of. Paul Simon came to mind, not so much with the vocals but with the words and pace of the presentation. 

“Take a Breath” is so much different than the preceding songs that it could be a morning mantra to start the day off right. It only counts off at 1:22 but certainly makes a point. With so little time there is so much to say. He really makes it count on this one.

The following track “Rain,” is one of the very best, the music and vibe becomes one as the words melt into your consciousness. Music and lyrics with impact is what happens on Human. The fact is the entire recording is about being human and all the situations and emotions that make us who we are. For instance in “Don’t Leave,” a passage goes “When the weather gets a little stormy you leave,” once again exploring the human condition accompanied by some fine music. It has a country twang longing to it all, helping to push the words along with more impact. As the song goes on he sings “I can see the beauty in the eye of the storm.” It has very positive connotations I think the choice of musical accompaniment is perfect as well.

It doesn’t take too long for you to realize that Joseph Eid is a poet that knows how to sing and quite well as a matter of fact. I think the selection of tracks works very well for his vocal style and the music just seems so perfect in every way. I don’t think things could have turned out any better on Human.

If you want to hear something new and refreshing, music that is real and from the heart, give Humana close listen. 

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Rock, Don’t Leave, Take a Breath

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Write A Music Review Founder

November 5, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music

Concert Review:10,000 Maniacs Entertain At The Colonial In Pittsfield Massachusetts

10,000 Maniacs rolled into to Pittsfield Friday night…well not literally. I am referring to the groundbreaking alternative rock band that broke through college radio and made an imprint for that respective niche over three decades ago.

This is not a band I have followed over the years although have been quite aware of their impact since they arrived in the early 80s. I covered the reissued vinyl LP Our Time In Eden and completely enjoyed it so that was enough impetus to go see them perform at the beautiful Colonial Theater.

Mary Ramsey took over for Natalie Merchant in 1994 and has been with the band ever since. It’s never easy stepping into the shoes of an established star of a successful band and sometimes it just doesn’t work but in this case the transition was seamless and 30 years on Ramsey is still at center stage delivering her vocals and viola playing with authority.

Members include Jerome Augustyniak (drums), Dennis Drew (keyboards, vocals), Jeff Erickson (guitars, vocals), Steven Gustafson (bass guitar, witty banter), Mary Ramsey (viola, vocals) and John Lombardo (occasional guitar and trivia). On this night however Melanie Luciano was on stage playing acoustic guitar and providing harmonies as well. Also towards the end of the second half of the show, three local brass players entered the mix and things really got cooking.

Hailing from Jamestown New York, the band takes influences of Celtic Folk to produce their distinctive sound. They can be subtle and inviting within a song but they also can build a piece into a literal rocking wall of sound. Right from the start I was impressed with their precise musicianship and innate musicality. The chemistry on stage with the band is obvious and they all seem in sync with each other. That obviously has a lot to do with their success and the way each song is presented in a live setting.

One of the first things I noticed right at the beginning of the first song was the big drums of Jerome Augustyniak. He continued to impress throughout the evening and I genuinely respected how hard he worked behind his drum kit. That position in the band is the most arduous as far as I am concerned and you have to have endless stamina and be very athletic. With all due respect to everyone in the band, as they were superb, this man was a perpetual motion machine.

What I found most enjoyable was the eclectic presentation the band made. Their blend of Celtic, folk, rock and alternative left the door wide open for plenty of improvisation. What the audience witnessed was exactly that, a prominent display of across the board talent. I was most appreciative of the fine musicianship. These are true professionals who do not miss a thing making their way through a song.

I think the people in attendance really appreciated what was on offer this beautiful fall evening. There was a couple in front of us that came in and it seemed like they were in absolute awe of the facility. They were from New York City and certainly there are plenty of venues there to appreciate. They thought that The Colonial was gorgeous and very special. I could not agree more and the 10,000 Maniacs were in agreement as well, as all artists are that visit there are.

I look forward to many exciting upcoming dates at the Colonial for the rest of this year and until March next year. Check their website and mark you calendar’s!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Founder of Write A Music Review, New Age Music Reviews, Prog Rock Music Talk and Rate The Tracks

http://www.maniacs.com

American Folk Legend Jim Croce Sees Brilliant Career Overview In Rarities Of His Greatest Hits Including A Previously Unreleased Concert From 1964!

Los Angeles, CA – On July 22nd, the legacy of folk singer Jim Croce will see added to its distinguished discography, the release of Lost Time In A Bottle, a 24-track collection of rare versions of all his greatest hit songs including “Time In A Bottle,” “Operator,” “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” and “I Got A Name.” The collection will be released by Cleopatra Records first on CD, with a 2LP vinyl version set to follow shortly thereafter.

Between the years 1966 and 1973, Croce released a mere five studio albums and 11 singles, 2 of which made it to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart. Sadly, we lost this incredible artist on September 20, 1973. His body of work however has lived on in a timeless state as new fans and old have embraced the incredible songwriting that has made him into the legend that he is today.

Included on Lost Time In A Bottle, is a previously unreleased radio concert from Cazenovia College in 1964. Recorded near the beginning of Jim’s career, it is a marvelous showcase of the storytelling skills and sparkling personality that the world would soon come to love.

1. Next Time, This Time (Harper College 2/5/73)
2. New York’s Not My Home (Harper College 2/5/73)
3. You Don’t Mess Around With Jim (Harper College 2/5/73)
4. Careful Man (Harper College 2/5/73)
5. A Good Time Man Like Me (Demo)
6. Tractor Trailer Story Intro (Harper College 2/5/73)
7. Speedball Tucker (Demo)
8. Operator (Demo)
9. Hard Time Losin’ Man (Demo)
10. Seems Like Such A Long Time Ago (Demo)
11. It Doesn’t Have To Be That Way (Harper College 2/5/73)
12. Bar Story Intro (Harper College 2/5/73)
13. Roller Derby Queen (Harper College 2/5/73)
14. One Less Set Of Footsteps (Harper College 2/5/73)
15. Dreamin’ Again (Harper College 2/5/73)
16. Bad, Bad Leroy Brown (Demo)
17. Time In A Bottle (Demo)
18. I Got A Name (Live 1973)
19. Charley Green, Play That Slide Trombone (Cazenovia College 1964)
20. San Francisco Bay Blues (Cazenovia College 1964)
21. Washington At Valley Forge (Cazenovia College 1964)
22. La Bamba (Cazenovia College 1964)
23. Seek And You Shall Find (Cazenovia College 1964)
24. Woke Up This Morning (Cazenovia College 1964)

To pre-order the CD at Amazon: http://georiot.co/Km8
To pre-order the album on iTunes: http://georiot.co/vlo

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

Folk Legends Peter, Paul & Mary's 1962 Debut Album To Be Released On Hybrid SACD By Audio Fidelity March 4, 2014

“One of the best albums to come out of the 1960s folk music revival”

Camarillo, CA - The group that transformed American folk music into '60s pop, legendary Peter, Paul & Mary's debut 1962 self-titled album will be released on Hybrid SACD by Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity on March 4, 2014. One of the best albums to come out of the 1960s folk music revival, the trio's debut release featured two of the biggest folk hits of all time, “Lemon Tree” and “If I Had A Hammer”, along with such classics as “500 Miles” and “Where Have All The Flowers Gone.” Peter, Paul & Mary's first album introduced one of the most popular, innovative and enduring folk music groups of all time!

'Peter, Paul & Mary' is a collection of the best songs that the group knew, stirring in its sensibilities and its haunting melodies, crossing between folk, children's songs, and even gospel; light-hearted just where it needed to be and earnest where it has to be. For a young group on their first album, this was meticulously produced and already showed their incredible sense of professionalism. The angelic voice of Mary Travers blends with Peter Yarrow's tenor and Paul Stookey's bass on some gorgeous harmonies.

It's one of the rare folk albums to reach US #1, staying in the Billboard Magazine Top Ten for 10 months, including seven weeks in the #1 position. At the Grammy Awards of 1963, their recording of “If I Had A Hammer” won the Best Folk Recording and Best Pop Performance by a Vocal Group awards. This classic recording helped to bring modern folk stylings to a mass audience for the first time. The album's innocent good spirit and optimism remains infectious even 50 years later!

Tracks:
Early In The Morning
500 Miles
Sorrow
This Train
Bamboo
It's Raining
If I Had My Way
Cruel War
Lemon Tree
If I Had A Hammer
Autumn To May
Where Have All The Flowers Gone?

Mastered by Steve Hoffman at Stephen Marsh Mastering

For more information: http://www.audiofidelity.net/content/peter-paul-and-mary

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

Folk Icon & Irish American Hall Of Fame Inductee Judy Collins Returns To The Land Of Her Ancestors with JUDY COLLINS LIVE IN IRELAND

Los Angeles, CA - Judy Collins has inspired audiences worldwide for over five decades with her sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. March 18th 2014 will see the much-anticipated release of JUDY COLLINS LIVE IN IRELAND, CD/DVD on Cleopatra Records. Recorded September 29, 2013 at Dromoland Castle for PBS broadcast, LIVE IN IRELAND is scheduled to run on THIRTEEN NYC, WGBH Boston & PBS affiliates nationwide March 5th. Now fans worldwide in the comfort of their homes can enjoy time and again this spirited and inspiring set of Judy’s most beloved hits along with her favorite Celtic folk songs and stories (including duets with Irish singer Mary Black & NY singer-songwriter Ari Hest).

In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Her landmark works helped form the backbone of American folk music. Judy’s luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 50+-album body of work, and heed inspiration from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century. LIVE IN IRELAND showcases a living legend whose career continues to blossom with each new release.

DVD Track Listing:
Wild Mountain Thyme
Chelsea Morning
Grandaddy (featuring step dancer Emily Ellis)
New Moon Over The Hudson
Bird On A Wire
Cat’s In The Cradle
John Riley
She Moved Through The Fair (feat. Mary Black)
The Fire Plays (feat. Ari Hest)
How Are Things In Glocca Morra?
Danny Boy
Amazing Grace

Bonus Tracks:
Gypsy Rover
Barbara Allen
Innisfree
Additional Interview Footage

CD Track Listing:
Wild Mountain Thyme
Chelsea Morning
Gypsy Rover
Grandaddy (featuring step dancer Emily Ellis)
New Moon Over The Hudson
Cat’s In The Cradle
John Riley
She Moved Through The Fair (feat. Mary Black)
The Fire Plays (feat. Ari Hest)
Innisfree
Danny Boy

JUDY COLLINS Live in Ireland in-store appearance:
Title: Live in Ireland
Event Date: March 17, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Store: Barnes & Noble store #2278 - NYC/Upper East Side
150 East 86th Street
New York, NY 10028
tel: (212)369-534

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

Folk Rock Review: Crosby, Stills & Nash-CSN 24kt Gold

Artist: Crosby, Stills & Nash
Title: CSN (24kt Gold)
Genre: Folk Rock
Label: Audio Fidelity
Website
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In a word CSN is a striking folk rock masterpiece. It displays three of the most perfected voices in rock history and served as a stunning debut. Stephen Stills, Graham Nash and David Crosby together sounded like they could lead you to the gates of heaven...READ MORE...

Folk-Blues Review: Mike McGuire-Kentucky Morning

Artist: Mike McGuire
Title: Kentucky Morning
Genre: Folk/Blues
Label: Independent
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Mike McGuire is a singer-songwriter that sings folk songs with a blues edge. His thoughtful, often witty, lyrics blend together with his music and put him a notch above a lot of his peers. After a couple of years away he is finally ready to release some new music; a six-song collection called Kentucky Morning...READ MORE...

Mike McGuire Releases Country- Americana Classic Beyond The Ark

Louisville, Kentucky-August, 31, 2011- Mike McGuire’s guitar and voice unify to create a new classic for Country and Americana fans to enjoy titled Beyond The Ark...READ MORE...

Dana Edelman-Blue Rose Review

Artist: Dana Edelman
Title: Blue Rose
Genre: Folk-Pop
Label: Mile 23 Music
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Maybe I’m a sucker for a slow jam, but Dana Edelman’s soothing collection of songs for his latest album, Blue Roses, really hits the spot. Edelman co-produced the record with Joshua Paul Thompson, the Grammy winning producer who’s worked with the likes of Alica Keys, Joe, and George Benson...READ MORE...