Showing posts with label Guest Appearances. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Guest Appearances. Show all posts

6/05/2020

Nick D'Virgilio Releases New Video & Single "Money (That’s What I Want)" From Forthcoming Album "Invisible"


Album special guests include Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) / Paul Gilbert (Mr Big, Racer X) / Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) / Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) / Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) / Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings / Steve Hackett) / Jem Godfrey (Frost*) and more 

A distinctive cover version of “Money (That’s What I Want)” has been made available as the second single from Invisible, the forthcoming new solo album by the American drummer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Nick D'Virgilio (NDV). The first ever hit on the Tamla Motown label in 1959 has seen notable covers in the past by the likes of The Beatles and The Flying Lizards, with NDV stating: “I've always liked this song, with the original version by Barrett Strong being my favorite. I wanted my take on it to be dark and brooding with a cinematic sound, so I came up with a way to build an end with chords that kept climbing until a nice climax, while parts for orchestra were arranged that built a great sound on top. One of my favorite parts of the song is when I'm whispering a bunch of slang terms for money. I sang the whole song like a person that is going a little crazy and that section was a perfect fit.”

In regard to how the song fits into the narrative flow of Invisible, he explains: “Lyrically, the words fit perfectly. The song comes at the point in the story where the protagonist has decided to leave his dead end job and venture out into the world to try and discover the meaning of his life. He wanders into a shop and sees the person behind the counter looking dishevelled and depressed, prompting him to ask 'is everything OK? Why are you here? If it's that bad, why don’t you go home?' Those questions prompt the response that they need money. They are stuck in life’s trap just like him, and he swiftly realizes that he is not alone in feeling alone.”



Invisible is the second solo album by the California born but Indiana based NDV and comes almost two decades after his debut solo offering. He describes his new record as “a collection of songs that make up the story of a man who is unhappy with where his life has ended up. He finally decides to take the scary step of leaving everything behind so he can go and find the meaning of his life.” He continues: “Throughout my career I have been in many different places. Over time the word 'invisible' kept coming to mind and it got me thinking of people that truly have the hardest jobs in the world, or no job at all. The outliers. The ones we all take for granted. The ones we will never know but if they were not there then our lives would not be the nearly the same. Over time I amassed lyric and song ideas with the idea of writing a concept record on the subject.”

Keen to establish that “this is not your typical drummer record,” NDV states that “'Invisible’ is a rock album with various musical flavors thrown in because the songs were formed with the story in mind. A classical prelude that uses various themes from the whole piece sets the stage. From there comes a mellow ballad outlining the story and then it is on to the adventures of the central character. The main thing making this record did for me was to reaffirm my strong belief that we are all here for something. We all have a purpose.”

With the recording process split between the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London (including full string and brass sections) and the world class Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Invisible boasts star turns from luminaries such as guitarists Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big, Racer X), Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) and Carl Verheyen (Supertramp), bassists Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) and Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), plus keyboard players Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jem Godfrey (Frost*).

NDV's debut solo album, Karma (2001), had appeared midway through his tenure with US progressive rock titans Spock's Beard, with whom he started out as drummer upon their inception in the early 1990's before taking on additional lead singer and live frontman duties in 2002 for four studio albums prior to his departure in 2011. At the time, this was partly in order to continue touring as drummer, singer and assistant bandleader with Cirque du Soleil, with whom he played over 1400 shows over a five year period until 2014. He has also been the drummer with the award winning UK band Big Big Train since 2007 and performed with world renowned acts such as Genesis (appearing on the Calling All Stations album) and Tears For Fears (with whom he toured for over a decade).

Upon ending his stint with Cirque du Soleil, NDV relocated to Fort Wayne to become the face of the drum division of world leading music technology and instrument retailer Sweetwater Sound, explaining that “it has exploded and I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of interesting people while building new lifelong relationships. I've also had the chance to play on so much great drum gear – it is Disneyland in that regard! Many of my old bands and music compatriots have been there to record or do workshops, which is icing on the cake.”

The release of Invisible now begins yet another fascinating chapter in NDV's multi-faceted career, which he concludes “has taken many twists and turns. I have been able to live out some major musical fantasies, seeing some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It has been a wild ride that is not over yet!”

A full biography of Nick D’Virgilio can be downloaded here: bit.ly/3cJvX9N

NICK D’VIRGILIO (NDV) : photography by Erick Anderson (eafoto)

Nick D'Virgilio's Invisible will be released on June 26, 2020.



To purchase: 
www.nickdvirgilio.com/shop/
burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings/nick-dvirgilio_invisible_cd

For more information: nickdvirgilio.com

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

Nick D'Virgilio Releases New Video & Single "Money (That’s What I Want)" From Forthcoming Album "Invisible"


Album special guests include Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) / Paul Gilbert (Mr Big, Racer X) / Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) / Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) / Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) / Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings / Steve Hackett) / Jem Godfrey (Frost*) and more 

A distinctive cover version of “Money (That’s What I Want)” has been made available as the second single from Invisible, the forthcoming new solo album by the American drummer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Nick D'Virgilio (NDV). The first ever hit on the Tamla Motown label in 1959 has seen notable covers in the past by the likes of The Beatles and The Flying Lizards, with NDV stating: “I've always liked this song, with the original version by Barrett Strong being my favorite. I wanted my take on it to be dark and brooding with a cinematic sound, so I came up with a way to build an end with chords that kept climbing until a nice climax, while parts for orchestra were arranged that built a great sound on top. One of my favorite parts of the song is when I'm whispering a bunch of slang terms for money. I sang the whole song like a person that is going a little crazy and that section was a perfect fit.”

In regard to how the song fits into the narrative flow of Invisible, he explains: “Lyrically, the words fit perfectly. The song comes at the point in the story where the protagonist has decided to leave his dead end job and venture out into the world to try and discover the meaning of his life. He wanders into a shop and sees the person behind the counter looking dishevelled and depressed, prompting him to ask 'is everything OK? Why are you here? If it's that bad, why don’t you go home?' Those questions prompt the response that they need money. They are stuck in life’s trap just like him, and he swiftly realizes that he is not alone in feeling alone.”



Invisible is the second solo album by the California born but Indiana based NDV and comes almost two decades after his debut solo offering. He describes his new record as “a collection of songs that make up the story of a man who is unhappy with where his life has ended up. He finally decides to take the scary step of leaving everything behind so he can go and find the meaning of his life.” He continues: “Throughout my career I have been in many different places. Over time the word 'invisible' kept coming to mind and it got me thinking of people that truly have the hardest jobs in the world, or no job at all. The outliers. The ones we all take for granted. The ones we will never know but if they were not there then our lives would not be the nearly the same. Over time I amassed lyric and song ideas with the idea of writing a concept record on the subject.”

Keen to establish that “this is not your typical drummer record,” NDV states that “'Invisible’ is a rock album with various musical flavors thrown in because the songs were formed with the story in mind. A classical prelude that uses various themes from the whole piece sets the stage. From there comes a mellow ballad outlining the story and then it is on to the adventures of the central character. The main thing making this record did for me was to reaffirm my strong belief that we are all here for something. We all have a purpose.”

With the recording process split between the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London (including full string and brass sections) and the world class Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Invisible boasts star turns from luminaries such as guitarists Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big, Racer X), Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) and Carl Verheyen (Supertramp), bassists Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) and Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), plus keyboard players Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jem Godfrey (Frost*).

NDV's debut solo album, Karma (2001), had appeared midway through his tenure with US progressive rock titans Spock's Beard, with whom he started out as drummer upon their inception in the early 1990's before taking on additional lead singer and live frontman duties in 2002 for four studio albums prior to his departure in 2011. At the time, this was partly in order to continue touring as drummer, singer and assistant bandleader with Cirque du Soleil, with whom he played over 1400 shows over a five year period until 2014. He has also been the drummer with the award winning UK band Big Big Train since 2007 and performed with world renowned acts such as Genesis (appearing on the Calling All Stations album) and Tears For Fears (with whom he toured for over a decade).

Upon ending his stint with Cirque du Soleil, NDV relocated to Fort Wayne to become the face of the drum division of world leading music technology and instrument retailer Sweetwater Sound, explaining that “it has exploded and I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of interesting people while building new lifelong relationships. I've also had the chance to play on so much great drum gear – it is Disneyland in that regard! Many of my old bands and music compatriots have been there to record or do workshops, which is icing on the cake.”

The release of Invisible now begins yet another fascinating chapter in NDV's multi-faceted career, which he concludes “has taken many twists and turns. I have been able to live out some major musical fantasies, seeing some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It has been a wild ride that is not over yet!”

A full biography of Nick D’Virgilio can be downloaded here: bit.ly/3cJvX9N

NICK D’VIRGILIO (NDV) : photography by Erick Anderson (eafoto)

Nick D'Virgilio's Invisible will be released on June 26, 2020.



To purchase: 
www.nickdvirgilio.com/shop/
burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings/nick-dvirgilio_invisible_cd

For more information: nickdvirgilio.com

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

5/12/2020

Blues Royal SHIRLEY KING, Daughter Of B.B. KING, Unveils New Studio Album With A Court Of Special Guests!


Features performances by Joe Louis Walker, Robben Ford, Elvin Bishop, Junior Wells, Pat Travers, Steve Cropper, Martin Barre, Harvey Mandel and others!

Los Angeles, CA - Being the blues-singing daughter of B.B. King has earned Shirley King the title “Daughter of the Blues,” but she is an outstanding singer and performer in her own right and capable of singing any kind of music that comes her way. Just witness her newest full-length album, Blues For A King, which crosses musical genres from blues to rock to soul and back again. Even next to such high wattage guests as Joe Louis Walker, Robben Ford, Junior Wells, Pat Travers & Elvin Bishop, King absolutely shines as she performs spectacular version of the blues classics “Gallows Pole” and “Hoodoo Blues Man” as well as the soul hit “Johnny Porter” (originally by The Temptations) plus two songs by British rock band Traffic, “Can’t Find My Way Home” and “Feelin’ Alright?.” The album closes with a powerful version of Etta James’s unforgettable “At Last,” which signals that, at long last, Shirley King is finally getting the attention and recognition she so richly deserves.

“I’m so thrilled that these great artists lent their amazing talents to my new album. I can’t thank them enough for believing in me. I’m so proud of this album and can’t wait for the world to hear it. I feel it’s my best work yet,” enthuses Shirley. Blues Hall of Fame guitarist Joe Louis Walker, who guests on two tracks on the new album, says, “I’ve had the honor of performing on two B.B. King albums. Now I have the distinct honor and pleasure of playing on his daughter’s album, Shirley King, who is also my dear friend. Keep the thrill goin’ on, Shirley….”

Blues For A King will be available on both CD and vinyl starting June 19 from Cleopatra Blues, a subsidiary of Cleopatra Records, Inc.

To purchase the album: https://orcd.co/shirley-king

Track List:
1. All Of My Lovin' feat. Joe Louis Walker
2. Feelin' Alright feat. Duke Robillard
3. I Did You Wrong feat. Elvin Bishop
4. That's All Right Mama feat. Pat Travers
5. Can't Find My Way Home feat. Martin Barre
6. Johnny Porter feat. Arthur Adams
7. Feeling Good feat. Robben Ford
8. Give It All Up feat. Kirk Fletcher
9. Gallows Pole feat. Harvey Mandel
10. Hoodoo Man Blues feat. Junior Wells & Joe Louis Walker
11. At Last feat. Steve Cropper

BIO
Born and raised in Memphis, Shirley began singing in the church choir at age nine. When she was thirteen, she met another music legend – Etta James. Young Shirley was so impressed by Etta’s performance that she made Etta her musical role model. Ruth Brown and the late Mahalia Jackson also greatly influenced the fledgling singer. Shirley says, “I grew up around the stage watching my dad become famous, but I never imagined I’d become a blues singer too.” Ms. King came late to the blues, first trying it on in 1990. Within six months, she was a regular performer at famed Chicago blues club Kingston Mines. Two years later she saw the release of her first CD, “Jump Through My Keyhole.”

In 1999, Shirley released her highly acclaimed blues album, “Daughter of the Blues,” which featured her soulful, bluesy versions of classics like “Wang Dang Doodle,” “Sweet Home Chicago,” “Every Day I Have the Blues” and, fittingly, “The Thrill is Gone.” Once her father caught her act he lent his full support to Shirley’s efforts at carrying on the blues. She admits that having a legendary father helped open some doors for her, but it was her talent, charisma and high-energy stage presence, along with her big, beautiful singing voice, that put her on the musical map. From traditional blues to gospel to funky R&B to smooth soul, Shirley defies genre and her singing and stage antics never fails to excite her growing number of fans worldwide.

Shirley also believes in giving back. She has worked with kids as an artist-in-residence with the highly acclaimed Urban Gateways Arts in the Schools Program at Chicago Public Schools and continues to expose school children to the history blues has played in American culture. All in all, Shirley King continues to be the quintessential ambassador for the blues - and that’s something that would certainly make her daddy proud.

For more info, visit Shirley’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/shirley.king.790

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


CLEOPATRA BLUES
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5/06/2020

Italian Jazz Guitarist Rocco Zifarelli Releases New Album "Music Unites"


Working with legendary film music composer Ennio Morricone for over 20 years!

“Music Unites” is the new CD by Italian guitarist Rocco Zifarelli, for more than 20 years alongside the famous movie music composer Ennio Morricone with whom he has recorded many award winning scores (Academy Award, Golden Globe, Bafta etc) and performed in many tours around the world. Published 20 years after the acclaimed “Lyndon” (Via VenetoJazz-Universal) this CD continues on the same musical concept, that concerns instrumental electric jazz and jazz-rock in general, with 10 tracks describing a series of experiences of musical life in Rome, New York and especially in Paris.

For “Music Unites” Rocco brought together a number of great musicians with whom he collaborated in the last years, primarily Paco Sery (Ivory Coast) on drums and Linley Marthe (Mauritius Island) on bass, the rhythm section of Joe Zawinul Syndicate, then italian bass stars Dario Deidda and Pippo Matino, Russian trumpeter Alex Sipiagin and two DJ’s and sound designers Freddy Jay (Paris) and Yassin Africancuts (Brussels), and many others. A lot of musical variety, original and non-original compositions, including two revisited Morricone's themes “The Untouchables” and “Le clan des siciliens,” in a dynamic succession of electric and acoustic moods combined with samples and electronic loop, well conducted by Rocco's eclectic guitar. A CD that put together people, cultures, sounds, musical life and experiences…because “Music Unites”!

Says Rocco, “This record is the story of my musical and private life, through the ten tracks, like the chapters of an autobiographical book. It’s also a journey, a long journey in all senses, was conceived from the point of view of the compositional ideas many years ago, shortly after the release of my first and only album 'Lyndon' but had a very long gestation, due to many factors both external and personal, changes of human and artistic life mainly influenced by the massive events that have affected the whole world in the last twenty years. During this time I traveled a lot, for tours and concerts, and lived in some world great musical cities. Expecially my three years in Paris, after joining the Defunkt, where I met many African artists who were able to express depths of their native cultures. Even now Paris absorbs these important influences and, in musical terms, trains generations of extraordinary esteemed all over the world. All that already happened in New York since forever, but not with African born artists, really hard to arrive in the US… it is not a coincidence that Joe Zawinul has taken so many musicians of the last Syndicate in Paris, even if they were not originally from France.”

Rocco Zifarelli's “Music Unites” showcases the energy and power of Rock, the expressiveness of Blues, the improvisation, the harmonies and the interplay of the Jazz of Miles and Coltrane, the groove of Funk and Black Music, the timbres and the colors of Mediterranean acoustic music and the synthesis of Electronic music.

In the meantime, thanks also to his friend Marco Massimi, he managed to create Rocco's recording studio in Rome, the “ZETA STUDIO,” where “Music Unites” was almost entirely recorded; it is Rocco's “refuge,” a kind of laboratory where he can experiment with music ideas with his friends, and a comfortable place to record guitar tracks for various external works. The need to manage, protect and produce the best ideas has led Rocco to develop the concept of his own music production company, “ZETA STUDIO PRODUCTIONS,” which will report to some divisions such as the record label “ZETA RECORDS,” of which this CD is the first product, publisher with which his guitar methods and other types of productions will come out.



Here's what's being said about Rocco Zifarelli:

“Rocco has been working with me for more than 20 years now... his use of electric guitar, sounds and the way he performs and interprets my writing makes him one of my first choice musicians, both for recordings and for concerts made all over the world. This record fully expresses my thoughts.” - ENNIO MORRICONE

“Imagine the Pat Metheny Group’s embracing of jazzy world music with a groovy hip-hop type sound beloved of musicians such as Miles Davis and (especially) saxophonist Branford Marsalis’ project, Buckshot Le Fonque, and you’re on your way... Beautifully sublime!” - GUITAR TECHNIQUE

“...it is a journey not only introspective, in which life experiences become the matter of the story. A musical journey supported by electronics and the sounds of the surroundings, which transforms the listener into Rocco Zifarelli's travel companion.” - Radio Vostok.com, Carlo Pecoraro

“The electric and acoustic sounds are inspired by fusion music that, thanks to truly stratospheric rhythms, contemporary sounds, voices, and various 'very cool' inserts, becomes very contemporary and, in some moments, even prospective for a new path on which to continue to do research...” - JAZZITALIA 

Along with promoting his new album, Rocco is busy with many other musical related activities. Says Rocco, “After 22 years of recording and touring with Maestro Ennio Morricone, he has retired some months ago, we’re still doing some concerts and recording sessions, but now I’m totally involved in my projects and teaching. I teach Pop-Rock and Jazz Guitar at the State Conservatories of Milano and Cuneo, but it allows me to have plenty of time to dedicate to my artistic activity, to my recording studio and  label, lots of live concerts with different bands, mostly electric and acoustic jazz, and many recording sessions in different styles. I'm preparing a new album, mostly swingin' acoustic jazz, that's still my main source of inspiration and study, and not so elaborate as 'Music Unites.' I've just finished a collaboration with the UK magazine 'Guitar Techniques,' with a series of six video-workshops issued now, in which I've improvised some solos on backing tracks they provided to me, and then I explain my style and my phrasing ideas for each song.”

To purchase Rocco Zifarelli's “Music Unites”:
https://www.jazzos.com/detail0.php?prod=ZRP001
https://music.apple.com/us/album/music-unites/1456428870
www.amazon.it/Music-Unites-Explicit-Rocco-Zifarelli/dp/B07PPJN1K4/ref=sr_1_1

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0ivcv1QukbHAgOo3jy4sKW?si=svNwszlYQRmi4OfZdYid3w&fbclid=IwAR3xV-Rrjv5YS3s6POTEDbkTevuol830pb3580rhlwebgOVhaPp1a1anz70

For more information:
Website: www.roccozifarelli.com
F.B. artist page:  www.facebook.com/Rocco-Zifarelli-Guitarist-143486242343992/
Instagram:  www.instagram.com/roccozifarelli/?hl=it

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

5/01/2020

Legendary Electric Violinist & Vocalist L. SHANKAR Debuts New Single & Video From His Star-Studded New Album!


Album features guest appearances by Korn’s Jonathan Davis, world renowned vedic chanter P.N. Sivarama Krishnan, Tony Levin, Chester Thompson, Scott Page of Supertramp & Pink Floyd, Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Norwood Fisher of Fishbone, and others!

Los Angeles, CA - Lakshminarayana Shankar, professionally known as L. Shankar, is widely considered a living legend, a pioneer, and a musical genius who has collaborated with giants such as Frank Zappa, Peter Gabriel, U2, Bruce Springsteen, Madonna and many, many more. His solo albums have always drawn not only enormous interest from fans and critics alike but also showcase the collaborative spirit that is integral to Shankar’s art. Musicians, singers, visionaries, both known and obscure, have all come to pay tribute to this uniquely talented musician and perhaps even find new inspiration for themselves by performing on his recordings. That tradition continues on Shankar’s new single “In My Heart,” which features the talents of groundbreaking artist Jonathan Davis, lead singer of alt-metal icons Korn, as well as Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Fishbone’s Norwood Fisher, Scott Page renowned saxophonist from Supertramp and Pink Floyd and others. The song’s meditative pace sets the perfect vibe for Shankar’s mantra-like lyrics and melody while an ethereal musical bed transports the listener on a spiritual journey.

A gorgeously animated music video captures the song’s essence perfectly and can be viewed here:


Stream the single: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-in-my-heart

This is the first single from Shankar's newest full-length album Chepleeri Dream that also features guest performances from King Crimson’s Tony Levin, Chester Thompson (Phil Collins / Genesis / Frank Zappa), Dileep Palakkad, and more! Shankar shares this about the album, “I was so inspired to work on this album and to have many great musicians involved with this project. The songs reflect upon my experience living at Chepleeri Temple in Kerala when there was a major disaster, floods which destroyed Kerala and I had to over come all the obstacles to get this project finished. It was truly a challenge and I love challenges. It gives me strength.” 



“My friend Shankar is an exceptional musician, and it’s been a pleasure to work with him both on his own music and Peter Gabriel’s.” - Tony Levin

“Working with L. Shankar on this project has been a great experience. His compositions are very enjoyable to play and his arrangements are always very interesting. I am very grateful and humbled to be part of this.” - Chester Thompson

The album is set for release on July 31 and will be available on both CD and limited edition red vinyl courtesy of Cleopatra Records, Inc.

Track List:
1. In My Heart
2. Faith
3. Spreading All Over
4. Can't Wait
5. Chepleeri Dream
6. Suppose
7. Knowing You
8. Ocean Waves
9. New World
10. Patience
11. Emotions

To purchase the album: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-chepleeri-dream

For more info: lshankar.com

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
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords/
Instagram @cleopatrarecords
https://www.instagram.com/cleopatrarecords/
Twitter @cleopatrarecord
https://twitter.com/cleopatrarecord
Youtube @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCopQ0616Fpfrq8Gt0N-0zOQ
Soundcloud @cleopatra-recs
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Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
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Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

Legendary Electric Violinist & Vocalist L. SHANKAR Debuts New Single & Video From His Star-Studded New Album!


Album features guest appearances by Korn’s Jonathan Davis, world renowned vedic chanter P.N. Sivarama Krishnan, Tony Levin, Chester Thompson, Scott Page of Supertramp & Pink Floyd, Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Norwood Fisher of Fishbone, and others!

Los Angeles, CA - Lakshminarayana Shankar, professionally known as L. Shankar, is widely considered a living legend, a pioneer, and a musical genius who has collaborated with giants such as Frank Zappa, Peter Gabriel, U2, Bruce Springsteen, Madonna and many, many more. His solo albums have always drawn not only enormous interest from fans and critics alike but also showcase the collaborative spirit that is integral to Shankar’s art. Musicians, singers, visionaries, both known and obscure, have all come to pay tribute to this uniquely talented musician and perhaps even find new inspiration for themselves by performing on his recordings. That tradition continues on Shankar’s new single “In My Heart,” which features the talents of groundbreaking artist Jonathan Davis, lead singer of alt-metal icons Korn, as well as Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Fishbone’s Norwood Fisher, Scott Page renowned saxophonist from Supertramp and Pink Floyd and others. The song’s meditative pace sets the perfect vibe for Shankar’s mantra-like lyrics and melody while an ethereal musical bed transports the listener on a spiritual journey.

A gorgeously animated music video captures the song’s essence perfectly and can be viewed here:


Stream the single: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-in-my-heart

This is the first single from Shankar's newest full-length album Chepleeri Dream that also features guest performances from King Crimson’s Tony Levin, Chester Thompson (Phil Collins / Genesis / Frank Zappa), Dileep Palakkad, and more! Shankar shares this about the album, “I was so inspired to work on this album and to have many great musicians involved with this project. The songs reflect upon my experience living at Chepleeri Temple in Kerala when there was a major disaster, floods which destroyed Kerala and I had to over come all the obstacles to get this project finished. It was truly a challenge and I love challenges. It gives me strength.” 



“My friend Shankar is an exceptional musician, and it’s been a pleasure to work with him both on his own music and Peter Gabriel’s.” - Tony Levin

“Working with L. Shankar on this project has been a great experience. His compositions are very enjoyable to play and his arrangements are always very interesting. I am very grateful and humbled to be part of this.” - Chester Thompson

The album is set for release on July 31 and will be available on both CD and limited edition red vinyl courtesy of Cleopatra Records, Inc.

Track List:
1. In My Heart
2. Faith
3. Spreading All Over
4. Can't Wait
5. Chepleeri Dream
6. Suppose
7. Knowing You
8. Ocean Waves
9. New World
10. Patience
11. Emotions

To purchase the album: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-chepleeri-dream

For more info: lshankar.com

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
Facebook @Cleopatrarecords
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Instagram @cleopatrarecords
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https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
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Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
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Legendary Electric Violinist & Vocalist L. SHANKAR Debuts New Single & Video From His Star-Studded New Album!


Album features guest appearances by Korn’s Jonathan Davis, world renowned vedic chanter P.N. Sivarama Krishnan, Tony Levin, Chester Thompson, Scott Page of Supertramp & Pink Floyd, Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Norwood Fisher of Fishbone, and others!

Los Angeles, CA - Lakshminarayana Shankar, professionally known as L. Shankar, is widely considered a living legend, a pioneer, and a musical genius who has collaborated with giants such as Frank Zappa, Peter Gabriel, U2, Bruce Springsteen, Madonna and many, many more. His solo albums have always drawn not only enormous interest from fans and critics alike but also showcase the collaborative spirit that is integral to Shankar’s art. Musicians, singers, visionaries, both known and obscure, have all come to pay tribute to this uniquely talented musician and perhaps even find new inspiration for themselves by performing on his recordings. That tradition continues on Shankar’s new single “In My Heart,” which features the talents of groundbreaking artist Jonathan Davis, lead singer of alt-metal icons Korn, as well as Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, Fishbone’s Norwood Fisher, Scott Page renowned saxophonist from Supertramp and Pink Floyd and others. The song’s meditative pace sets the perfect vibe for Shankar’s mantra-like lyrics and melody while an ethereal musical bed transports the listener on a spiritual journey.

A gorgeously animated music video captures the song’s essence perfectly and can be viewed here:


Stream the single: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-in-my-heart

This is the first single from Shankar's newest full-length album Chepleeri Dream that also features guest performances from King Crimson’s Tony Levin, Chester Thompson (Phil Collins / Genesis / Frank Zappa), Dileep Palakkad, and more! Shankar shares this about the album, “I was so inspired to work on this album and to have many great musicians involved with this project. The songs reflect upon my experience living at Chepleeri Temple in Kerala when there was a major disaster, floods which destroyed Kerala and I had to over come all the obstacles to get this project finished. It was truly a challenge and I love challenges. It gives me strength.” 



“My friend Shankar is an exceptional musician, and it’s been a pleasure to work with him both on his own music and Peter Gabriel’s.” - Tony Levin

“Working with L. Shankar on this project has been a great experience. His compositions are very enjoyable to play and his arrangements are always very interesting. I am very grateful and humbled to be part of this.” - Chester Thompson

The album is set for release on July 31 and will be available on both CD and limited edition red vinyl courtesy of Cleopatra Records, Inc.

Track List:
1. In My Heart
2. Faith
3. Spreading All Over
4. Can't Wait
5. Chepleeri Dream
6. Suppose
7. Knowing You
8. Ocean Waves
9. New World
10. Patience
11. Emotions

To purchase the album: https://orcd.co/l-shankar-chepleeri-dream

For more info: lshankar.com

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


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11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
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4/30/2020

Nick D’Virgilio to Release New Solo Album 'Invisible' Featuring Members of Dream Theater, King Crimson, Supertramp, Cheap Trick, The Flower Kings & Others!


Special guests Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) / Paul Gilbert (Mr Big, Racer X) / Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) / Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) / Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) / Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings / Steve Hackett) / Jem Godfrey (Frost*) and more 

Invisible is the second solo album by California born but Indiana based drummer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Nick D’Virgilio and comes almost two decades after his debut solo offering. D’Virgilio describes his new record as: “a collection of songs that make up the story of a man who is unhappy with where his life has ended up. He finally decides to take the scary step of leaving everything behind so he can go and find the meaning of his life,” before continuing: “Throughout my career I have been in many different places. Over time the word ‘invisible’ kept coming to mind and it got me thinking of people that truly had the hardest jobs in the world, or no job at all. The outliers. The ones we all take for granted. The ones we will never know but if they were not there then our lives would not be the nearly the same. Over time I amassed lyric and song ideas with the idea of writing a concept record on the subject.”

Keen to establish that: “This is not your typical drummer record,” D’Virgilio describes Invisible as “a rock record with various musical flavours thrown in because the songs were formed with the story in mind. A classical prelude that uses various themes from the whole piece sets the stage. From there comes a mellow ballad outlining the story and then it is onto the adventures of the central character. The main thing making this record did for me was to reaffirm my strong belief that we are all here for something. We all have a purpose.”

With the recording process split between the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London (including full string and brass sections) and the world class Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Invisible boasts star turns from luminaries such as guitarists Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big), Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) and Carl Verheyen (Supertramp), bassists Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) and Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), plus keyboard players Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jem Godfrey (Frost*).

Watch “Where’s the Passion” lyric video:


Nick D’Virgilio’s “Where’s the Passion” lyric video and NDV’s new website are both scheduled to go live on Friday May 1st at 9am PST / noon EST, 5pm UK, 6pm central European.



D’Virgilio’s debut solo album, Karma (2001), had appeared midway through his tenure with US progressive rock titans Spock’s Beard, with whom he started out as drummer upon their inception in the early 1990’s before taking on additional lead singer and live frontman duties in 2002 for four studio albums prior to his departure in 2011. At the time, this was partly in order to continue touring as drummer, singer and assistant bandleader with Cirque du Soleil, with whom he performed over 1400 shows over a five year period until 2014. He has also been the drummer with the award winning UK band Big Big Train since 2007 and performed with world renowned acts such as Genesis (appearing on the Calling All Stations album) and Tears For Fears (with whom he toured for over a decade).

Upon ending his stint with Cirque du Soleil, D’Virgilio relocated to Fort Wayne to become the face of the drum division of world leading music technology and instrument retailer Sweetwater Sound and states: “The drum division at Sweetwater has exploded and I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of very interesting people while building some new life-long relationships. I’ve also had the chance to play on so much great drum gear – it really is Disneyland in that regard! Many of my old bands and music compatriots have been there to record or do workshops, which is icing on the cake.”

The release of Invisible now begins yet another fascinating chapter in D’Virgilio’s multi-faceted career, which he concludes “has taken many twists and turns. I have been able to live out some major musical fantasies. I have seen some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It has been a wild ride that is not over yet!”

Nick D’Virgilio’s Invisible will be released on June 26, 2020.

To purchase: www.nickdvirgilio.com/shop/

For more information: nickdvirgilio.com

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

Nick D’Virgilio to Release New Solo Album 'Invisible' Featuring Members of Dream Theater, King Crimson, Supertramp, Cheap Trick, The Flower Kings & Others!


Special guests Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) / Paul Gilbert (Mr Big, Racer X) / Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) / Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) / Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) / Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings / Steve Hackett) / Jem Godfrey (Frost*) and more 

Invisible is the second solo album by California born but Indiana based drummer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Nick D’Virgilio and comes almost two decades after his debut solo offering. D’Virgilio describes his new record as: “a collection of songs that make up the story of a man who is unhappy with where his life has ended up. He finally decides to take the scary step of leaving everything behind so he can go and find the meaning of his life,” before continuing: “Throughout my career I have been in many different places. Over time the word ‘invisible’ kept coming to mind and it got me thinking of people that truly had the hardest jobs in the world, or no job at all. The outliers. The ones we all take for granted. The ones we will never know but if they were not there then our lives would not be the nearly the same. Over time I amassed lyric and song ideas with the idea of writing a concept record on the subject.”

Keen to establish that: “This is not your typical drummer record,” D’Virgilio describes Invisible as “a rock record with various musical flavours thrown in because the songs were formed with the story in mind. A classical prelude that uses various themes from the whole piece sets the stage. From there comes a mellow ballad outlining the story and then it is onto the adventures of the central character. The main thing making this record did for me was to reaffirm my strong belief that we are all here for something. We all have a purpose.”

With the recording process split between the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London (including full string and brass sections) and the world class Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Invisible boasts star turns from luminaries such as guitarists Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big), Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) and Carl Verheyen (Supertramp), bassists Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) and Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), plus keyboard players Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jem Godfrey (Frost*).

Watch “Where’s the Passion” lyric video:


Nick D’Virgilio’s “Where’s the Passion” lyric video and NDV’s new website are both scheduled to go live on Friday May 1st at 9am PST / noon EST, 5pm UK, 6pm central European.



D’Virgilio’s debut solo album, Karma (2001), had appeared midway through his tenure with US progressive rock titans Spock’s Beard, with whom he started out as drummer upon their inception in the early 1990’s before taking on additional lead singer and live frontman duties in 2002 for four studio albums prior to his departure in 2011. At the time, this was partly in order to continue touring as drummer, singer and assistant bandleader with Cirque du Soleil, with whom he performed over 1400 shows over a five year period until 2014. He has also been the drummer with the award winning UK band Big Big Train since 2007 and performed with world renowned acts such as Genesis (appearing on the Calling All Stations album) and Tears For Fears (with whom he toured for over a decade).

Upon ending his stint with Cirque du Soleil, D’Virgilio relocated to Fort Wayne to become the face of the drum division of world leading music technology and instrument retailer Sweetwater Sound and states: “The drum division at Sweetwater has exploded and I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of very interesting people while building some new life-long relationships. I’ve also had the chance to play on so much great drum gear – it really is Disneyland in that regard! Many of my old bands and music compatriots have been there to record or do workshops, which is icing on the cake.”

The release of Invisible now begins yet another fascinating chapter in D’Virgilio’s multi-faceted career, which he concludes “has taken many twists and turns. I have been able to live out some major musical fantasies. I have seen some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It has been a wild ride that is not over yet!”

Nick D’Virgilio’s Invisible will be released on June 26, 2020.

To purchase: www.nickdvirgilio.com/shop/

For more information: nickdvirgilio.com

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

Nick D’Virgilio to Release New Solo Album 'Invisible' Featuring Members of Dream Theater, King Crimson, Supertramp, Cheap Trick, The Flower Kings & Others!


Special guests Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) / Paul Gilbert (Mr Big, Racer X) / Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) / Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) / Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) / Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings / Steve Hackett) / Jem Godfrey (Frost*) and more 

Invisible is the second solo album by California born but Indiana based drummer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Nick D’Virgilio and comes almost two decades after his debut solo offering. D’Virgilio describes his new record as: “a collection of songs that make up the story of a man who is unhappy with where his life has ended up. He finally decides to take the scary step of leaving everything behind so he can go and find the meaning of his life,” before continuing: “Throughout my career I have been in many different places. Over time the word ‘invisible’ kept coming to mind and it got me thinking of people that truly had the hardest jobs in the world, or no job at all. The outliers. The ones we all take for granted. The ones we will never know but if they were not there then our lives would not be the nearly the same. Over time I amassed lyric and song ideas with the idea of writing a concept record on the subject.”

Keen to establish that: “This is not your typical drummer record,” D’Virgilio describes Invisible as “a rock record with various musical flavours thrown in because the songs were formed with the story in mind. A classical prelude that uses various themes from the whole piece sets the stage. From there comes a mellow ballad outlining the story and then it is onto the adventures of the central character. The main thing making this record did for me was to reaffirm my strong belief that we are all here for something. We all have a purpose.”

With the recording process split between the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London (including full string and brass sections) and the world class Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Invisible boasts star turns from luminaries such as guitarists Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big), Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) and Carl Verheyen (Supertramp), bassists Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel) and Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), plus keyboard players Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jem Godfrey (Frost*).

Watch “Where’s the Passion” lyric video:


Nick D’Virgilio’s “Where’s the Passion” lyric video and NDV’s new website are both scheduled to go live on Friday May 1st at 9am PST / noon EST, 5pm UK, 6pm central European.



D’Virgilio’s debut solo album, Karma (2001), had appeared midway through his tenure with US progressive rock titans Spock’s Beard, with whom he started out as drummer upon their inception in the early 1990’s before taking on additional lead singer and live frontman duties in 2002 for four studio albums prior to his departure in 2011. At the time, this was partly in order to continue touring as drummer, singer and assistant bandleader with Cirque du Soleil, with whom he performed over 1400 shows over a five year period until 2014. He has also been the drummer with the award winning UK band Big Big Train since 2007 and performed with world renowned acts such as Genesis (appearing on the Calling All Stations album) and Tears For Fears (with whom he toured for over a decade).

Upon ending his stint with Cirque du Soleil, D’Virgilio relocated to Fort Wayne to become the face of the drum division of world leading music technology and instrument retailer Sweetwater Sound and states: “The drum division at Sweetwater has exploded and I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of very interesting people while building some new life-long relationships. I’ve also had the chance to play on so much great drum gear – it really is Disneyland in that regard! Many of my old bands and music compatriots have been there to record or do workshops, which is icing on the cake.”

The release of Invisible now begins yet another fascinating chapter in D’Virgilio’s multi-faceted career, which he concludes “has taken many twists and turns. I have been able to live out some major musical fantasies. I have seen some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It has been a wild ride that is not over yet!”

Nick D’Virgilio’s Invisible will be released on June 26, 2020.

To purchase: www.nickdvirgilio.com/shop/

For more information: nickdvirgilio.com

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

4/22/2020

Blues Veteran Joe Louis Walker Announces New Album Blues Comin' On To Be Release June 5th on Cleopatra Records, Releases New Single Featuring Keb' Mo'


Featuring Keb' Mo', Eric Gales, Albert Lee, Mitch Ryder, Lee Oskar, Jorma Kaukonen, John Sebastian, Waddy Wachtel & others!

Los Angeles - Soulful blues phenom and Blues Hall of Fame inductee Joe Louis Walker is joined by a host of talented friends and peers on his superb new studio album, Blues Comin’ On.

The album features guest performances by fellow blues icons Keb' Mo', Eric Gales, and Albert Lee, plus Detroit soul singer Mitch Ryder, harmonica virtuoso Lee Oskar, Hot Tuna's Jorma Kaukonen, punk rock vocalist Charlie Harper, legendary session player Waddy Wachtel, and so many more!

This album explodes with the passionate playing and soulful melodies that have made Walker a favorite among true blues aficionados including the Rolling Stones.

The first single to be released is the “Old Time Used To Be,” which features guest appearances by Keb' Mo' and John Sebastian of The Lovin' Spoonful.

“From the opening track to the final note, the guests and fellow musicians on this album made this one of the best musical journeys I've ever had. I hope it's the same for you!” reveals Joe.

Originally from San Francisco, Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award-winner, celebrates a career that exceeds a half century. His musical legacy as a prolific torchbearer for the blues is proven by his 26 albums.

A true powerhouse guitar virtuoso, unique singer, and prolific songwriter, he has toured extensively throughout his career, performed at the world's most renowned music festivals, and earned a legion of dedicated fans.

NPR Music has called Walker “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues,” and within the blues world, he is already being referred to as a living legend.

The pre-release single, “Old Time Used To Be” can be listened to through this link: https://promo.theorchard.com/ItdOxWrtA4si4sebe8DD

The release date for the full album is June 5, 2020 and will be available on a digipak CD and also on a wildly popular white vinyl will be available as a limited edition.



Album Track List:
1. Feed the Poor featuring Jorma Kaukonen
2. Blues Comin’ On featuring Eric Gales
3. Someday, Someway featuring Carla Cooke & Lee Oskar
4. The Thang featuring Jesse Johnson
5. Old Time Used to Be featuring Keb’ Mo’
6. Come Back Home featuring Mitch Ryder
7. Bowlegged Woman, Knock-Kneed Man featuring Waddy Wachtel
8. Awake Me Shake Me featuring Carla Cooke
9. Lonely Weekends featuring David Bromberg
10. Seven More Steps featuring Albert Lee
11. Uptown to Harlem featuring Jellybean Johnson
12. 7 & 7 Is featuring Arlen Roth & Charlie Harper

To pre-order: https://orcd.co/joe-louis-walker-blues-comin-on

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


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Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

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3/28/2020

Todd Rundgren Recruits Guest Artists for Democratic Campaign Anthem


Todd Rundgren and some well known guest artists are re-recording his 1973 anthem “Just One Victory” and giving it away for free to Democrats throughout the US running for public office this year. So far Joe Walsh, Daryl Hall, and Paul Shaffer have already agreed to join the effort along with producer Don Was. The idea was suggested by former Bearsville Records executives Paul Fishkin and Marc Nathan.

“Just One Victory” originally appeared as the final track on Rundgren's critically acclaimed 1973 album, A Wizard, a True Star.

Rundgren hopes that other notable artists sign on as well. “Let's go for 'We Are the World,'” he recently told Andy Greene of Rolling Stone. “Not many people know about it at this particular moment, especially because just as we were getting into the project this huge distraction [of the virus] came along. We are waiting for everyone to settle down from that before we refocus on the political and start actively soliciting some performances.”

Guest artists on the song don't need to be musicians or even musically inclined. Once the song is recorded any Democrat will be able to use the song for free. “It's really the kind of thing to get people hyped up and ready to go out and vote,” Rundgren says.

Read the recent interview Todd Rundgren did with Andy Greene of Rolling Stone: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/todd-rundgren-victory-democrats-973903/

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

Todd Rundgren Recruits Guest Artists for Democratic Campaign Anthem


Todd Rundgren and some well known guest artists are re-recording his 1973 anthem “Just One Victory” and giving it away for free to Democrats throughout the US running for public office this year. So far Joe Walsh, Daryl Hall, and Paul Shaffer have already agreed to join the effort along with producer Don Was. The idea was suggested by former Bearsville Records executives Paul Fishkin and Marc Nathan.

“Just One Victory” originally appeared as the final track on Rundgren's critically acclaimed 1973 album, A Wizard, a True Star.

Rundgren hopes that other notable artists sign on as well. “Let's go for 'We Are the World,'” he recently told Andy Greene of Rolling Stone. “Not many people know about it at this particular moment, especially because just as we were getting into the project this huge distraction [of the virus] came along. We are waiting for everyone to settle down from that before we refocus on the political and start actively soliciting some performances.”

Guest artists on the song don't need to be musicians or even musically inclined. Once the song is recorded any Democrat will be able to use the song for free. “It's really the kind of thing to get people hyped up and ready to go out and vote,” Rundgren says.

Read the recent interview Todd Rundgren did with Andy Greene of Rolling Stone: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/todd-rundgren-victory-democrats-973903/

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

3/12/2020

Emmy Award Winning Guitarist Brian Tarquin's "Vegas Blue" In Memory of Las Vegas Tragedy


Featuring guest artists Steve Morse, Trey Gunn, Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal, Phil Naro, Hal Lindes, Tony Carey and others!

Las Vegas, Nevada, Mandalay Bay Hotel, October 1st, 2017. This was the site of a tragic and, all too familiar, occurrence involving a deadly mass shooting at the hands of a deranged gunman. What began that evening as a peaceful and celebratory country music concert ended in bullet-riddled chaos and carnage for countless patrons and innocent by-standers. This latest recording project by multi-Emmy winning guitarist/producer/engineer Brian Tarquin and company is dedicated to helping the families and survivors of this horrific mass shooting. And, in doing so, may also shine the spotlight on the need for sensible, responsible and humane gun laws and safety.

Says Brian, “This release is dedicated to the victims of the tragic events that occurred at  the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas October 1, 2017. All of our hearts and prayers go out to them and their families. Through this music we have tried to creatively express our deepest feelings.”

If music is, indeed, a supreme healer then one needs look no further than this visionary endeavor. And, as with many of Tarquin’s previous charitable compilations, the material, guest stars and production is first rate. From start to finish the listener is transported to that fateful evening, yet uplifted through the power of these stellar performances.

Says Brian, “Time after time we watch senseless acts of gun violence in the news media creating a sense of indifference in our consciousness. We musicians have come together to bring emotion and awareness through our performances.”

Multi Emmy Award winning Brian Tarquin is an established top rate composer/guitarist. He has won 3 Emmy's for “Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction and Composition for a Drama Series” and has been nominated for an Emmy 6 times. In 2019 Tarquin received a Global Music Gold Award for his release “Orlando In Heaven” for “Best Album.” Three years in a row (2016-2019) Tarquin received “Best Album Of The Year” nominations from the Independent Music Awards for his releases “Guitars For Wounded Warriors,” “Orlando in Heaven” and “Guitars for Veterans.” On which, Tarquin shows his guitar prowess along side such world-class shredders as: Steve Morse, Larry Coryell, Mike Stern, Billy Sheehan, Gary Hoey, Bumblefoot (Guns N’ Roses), Reb Beach (Whitesnake), Hal Lindes (Dire Straits), Chris Poland (Megadeth) and Chuck Loeb (FourPlay). In 2006 SESAC honored him with the Network Television Performance Award. Tarquin has graced the Top Billboard Charts with such commercial releases as: “This is Acid Jazz, Vol. 2,” “Sweet Emotions,” and “Bossa Brava: Caliente” on Instinct Records, followed by several solo jazz albums, which charted Top 10 at Smooth Jazz Radio R&R and Gavin charts. Brian has appeared on 38 releases, selling over 140,000 records in his career.

Produced & engineered by Brian Tarquin

Recorded at Jungle Room Studios, Florida 2018-2019 entirely thru a analog Trident mixing console on a 24 track Ampex 1200 tape machine and a Otari Radar, mixed down to a Ampex 440c 1/4” tape machine.

Mastered by David Glasser & Geoff Gray at Airshow Mastering, Boulder, CO

Tracks:
1. Distant Light featuring Steve Morse & Hal Lindes
2. Lights of Las Vegas featuring Phil Naro & Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal
3. Demonic featuring Trey Gunn
4. Tomorrow's Another Day featuring Phil Naro
5. Vegas Blue
6. Evil In Men's Hearts featuring Tony Carey
7. Forgiveness featuring Phil Naro
8. Know Me featuring Phil Naro
9. Hallowed Ground featuring Trey Gunn
10. Run For Cover featuring Phil Naro, Randy Coven & The Flyin’ Ryan Bros
11. Distant Light (vocal) featuring Phil Naro, Steve Morse & Hal Lindes

Here's what the press has said about “Vegas Blue”:

“The material, guest stars and production is first rate. From start to finish the listener is transported to that fateful evening, yet uplifted through the power of these stellar performances.” - Eric Harabadian, Progression Magazine

“Tarquin writes with soul and fire and plays with passion and precision. Once again, he has enlisted a first-rate squad of guests performers, including Trey Gunn (King Crimson), Steve Morse (Deep Purple) and Bumblefoot (GN'R), who help bring these rich, vivid recordings to life.” - Mark Nardone, Music Connection

“…every note, phrase, tone color, and impact of pick and/or finger on string will send shivers down your spine.” - Guitar Player Magazine

“…his passion for purity is more than evident – in both the music he makes and the way it’s recorded.” - Professional Sound Magazine

To pre-order:
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/music/album?id=Btk5sdlj2fmtn5ezc36brswgx4e
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/vegas-blue/1499568963
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/15SDfd04dcaEKuGsC3JQNT?si=I8uKmhUKQo-YmtQbgkV8fQ

For more information:
BHP Music-Guitar Trax Records, LLC
www.gtrtrax.com
www.jungleroomstudios.com
www.briantarquin.com
https://guitartrax.bandcamp.com

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

Emmy Award Winning Guitarist Brian Tarquin's "Vegas Blue" In Memory of Las Vegas Tragedy


Featuring guest artists Steve Morse, Trey Gunn, Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal, Phil Naro, Hal Lindes, Tony Carey and others!

Las Vegas, Nevada, Mandalay Bay Hotel, October 1st, 2017. This was the site of a tragic and, all too familiar, occurrence involving a deadly mass shooting at the hands of a deranged gunman. What began that evening as a peaceful and celebratory country music concert ended in bullet-riddled chaos and carnage for countless patrons and innocent by-standers. This latest recording project by multi-Emmy winning guitarist/producer/engineer Brian Tarquin and company is dedicated to helping the families and survivors of this horrific mass shooting. And, in doing so, may also shine the spotlight on the need for sensible, responsible and humane gun laws and safety.

Says Brian, “This release is dedicated to the victims of the tragic events that occurred at  the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas October 1, 2017. All of our hearts and prayers go out to them and their families. Through this music we have tried to creatively express our deepest feelings.”

If music is, indeed, a supreme healer then one needs look no further than this visionary endeavor. And, as with many of Tarquin’s previous charitable compilations, the material, guest stars and production is first rate. From start to finish the listener is transported to that fateful evening, yet uplifted through the power of these stellar performances.

Says Brian, “Time after time we watch senseless acts of gun violence in the news media creating a sense of indifference in our consciousness. We musicians have come together to bring emotion and awareness through our performances.”

Multi Emmy Award winning Brian Tarquin is an established top rate composer/guitarist. He has won 3 Emmy's for “Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction and Composition for a Drama Series” and has been nominated for an Emmy 6 times. In 2019 Tarquin received a Global Music Gold Award for his release “Orlando In Heaven” for “Best Album.” Three years in a row (2016-2019) Tarquin received “Best Album Of The Year” nominations from the Independent Music Awards for his releases “Guitars For Wounded Warriors,” “Orlando in Heaven” and “Guitars for Veterans.” On which, Tarquin shows his guitar prowess along side such world-class shredders as: Steve Morse, Larry Coryell, Mike Stern, Billy Sheehan, Gary Hoey, Bumblefoot (Guns N’ Roses), Reb Beach (Whitesnake), Hal Lindes (Dire Straits), Chris Poland (Megadeth) and Chuck Loeb (FourPlay). In 2006 SESAC honored him with the Network Television Performance Award. Tarquin has graced the Top Billboard Charts with such commercial releases as: “This is Acid Jazz, Vol. 2,” “Sweet Emotions,” and “Bossa Brava: Caliente” on Instinct Records, followed by several solo jazz albums, which charted Top 10 at Smooth Jazz Radio R&R and Gavin charts. Brian has appeared on 38 releases, selling over 140,000 records in his career.

Produced & engineered by Brian Tarquin

Recorded at Jungle Room Studios, Florida 2018-2019 entirely thru a analog Trident mixing console on a 24 track Ampex 1200 tape machine and a Otari Radar, mixed down to a Ampex 440c 1/4” tape machine.

Mastered by David Glasser & Geoff Gray at Airshow Mastering, Boulder, CO

Tracks:
1. Distant Light featuring Steve Morse & Hal Lindes
2. Lights of Las Vegas featuring Phil Naro & Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal
3. Demonic featuring Trey Gunn
4. Tomorrow's Another Day featuring Phil Naro
5. Vegas Blue
6. Evil In Men's Hearts featuring Tony Carey
7. Forgiveness featuring Phil Naro
8. Know Me featuring Phil Naro
9. Hallowed Ground featuring Trey Gunn
10. Run For Cover featuring Phil Naro, Randy Coven & The Flyin’ Ryan Bros
11. Distant Light (vocal) featuring Phil Naro, Steve Morse & Hal Lindes

Here's what the press has said about “Vegas Blue”:

“The material, guest stars and production is first rate. From start to finish the listener is transported to that fateful evening, yet uplifted through the power of these stellar performances.” - Eric Harabadian, Progression Magazine

“Tarquin writes with soul and fire and plays with passion and precision. Once again, he has enlisted a first-rate squad of guests performers, including Trey Gunn (King Crimson), Steve Morse (Deep Purple) and Bumblefoot (GN'R), who help bring these rich, vivid recordings to life.” - Mark Nardone, Music Connection

“…every note, phrase, tone color, and impact of pick and/or finger on string will send shivers down your spine.” - Guitar Player Magazine

“…his passion for purity is more than evident – in both the music he makes and the way it’s recorded.” - Professional Sound Magazine

To pre-order:
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/music/album?id=Btk5sdlj2fmtn5ezc36brswgx4e
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/vegas-blue/1499568963
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/15SDfd04dcaEKuGsC3JQNT?si=I8uKmhUKQo-YmtQbgkV8fQ

For more information:
BHP Music-Guitar Trax Records, LLC
www.gtrtrax.com
www.jungleroomstudios.com
www.briantarquin.com
https://guitartrax.bandcamp.com

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

1/30/2020

Italian Music Artist Annie Barbazza To Release Debut Solo Album "Vive"


Featuring Greg Lake, Fred Frith, Daniel Lanois, John Greaves, Paul Roland and others!

Italian music artist Annie Barbazza is releasing her first solo album “Vive” on February 29, 2020 on Dark Companion Records. She was a young drummer in love with progressive rock when Greg Lake discovered her talent as a singer and wanted her on stage with him for the concert which would later become the posthumous “Live in Piacenza”. Again Lake produced “Moonchild”, the duo with pianist Max Repetti for Manticore Records where she sang many songs formerly sang by Lake with ELP and King Crimson. If these were the beginnings of Annie’s career, now she is a rising star of the international Avant/Prog scene. Her friendship with John Greaves (Henry Cow, National Health) leads her to collaborate permanently live with the Welsh musician and to collaborate on his latest albums (“Piacenza” for Dark Companion and “Life Size” for Manticore).

Another one of her stable collaborations is the one with legendary writer-singer-songwriter Paul Roland with whom Annie regularly performs live as a bassist and singer and in the studio also as a drummer. Of extraordinary success both with critics and audiences is the recent collaboration with the North Sea Radio Orchestra as main vocalist in “Folly Bololey” (Dark Companion), the tribute to Robert Wyatt which triumphed at Rock In Opposition festival and at Cafe Oto in London, the cradle of new music. In studio she collaborates, among others, with Giorgio Fico Piazza and with Warm Morning Brothers, while live she performs together with artists such as Eugenio Finardi, Osanna, Robyn Hitchcock and many more, in addition to the ones afore-mentioned.

This album has a long history: Greg Lake originally wanted Annie to played all the instruments, but the record slowly turned into an all-star friends collaboration for most of them asked Annie to be part of it, from Fred Frith to John Greaves, from Lino Capra Vaccina to Daniel Lanois and Paul Roland. All tracks are original with the exception of two tracks written for her by John Greaves and Paul Roland and a cover of the splendid Blegvad / Greaves classic, “How Beautiful You Are”.

Who know Annie is aware of her elusive, shy nature. By these songs she gave voice to her inner ghosts and dreams, desires and fierce creativity.

An intimate, courageous, innovative album in which the many influences and musical styles of Annie melts together. Producer Max Marchini wanted to keep as immediate as they were conceived and played, avoiding overengineerings and over arrangements. The result is a collections of songs that span over the years working on which the many sides of the sparking, incredible voice of Annie Barbazza are the main character.

The album cover is visual artist William Xerra’s design. The album was recorded and produced at legendary Elfo Studios in Tavernago (Italy), in audiophile quality.



“I think if you can have any gift in music, the greatest gift is to be a singer. Annie’s unique voice is at the same time beautiful, brave and heartfelt.” - Greg Lake

“Annie is a phenomenon. She has a big voice and big heart and she’s eager to learn. Those are the characteristics of all the great musicians I’ve worked with. I can’t wait to see what she does next!” - Fred Frith

“I am in awe of Annie’s numerous gifts; her mellifluous voice, her mastery of so many instruments and most surprising of all - her incredibly diverse range of influences from classic rock to ambient and beyond. Not to forget her impeccable taste in cover versions!” - Paul Roland

“I’m very proud to know Annie as a dear friend. One day, on stage, on the radio in your kitchen, on the net or wherever you chance to hear her, you will know how great she is.” - John Greaves

Tracklist:
01. Ys (Barbazza) 4:12
02. June (Barbazza) 3:52
03. From Too Much Love Of Living (Greaves/Swinburne) 2:39
04. Time (Barbazza) 1:25
05. Nebulæ (Barbazza) 3:00
06. Wrote Myself A Letter (Roland) 6:23
07. How Beautiful You Are (Greaves/Blegvad) 4:22
08. Lost At Sea (Barbazza) 2:35
09. Phantoms (Barbazza) 3:20
10. Tide (Barbazza ) 2:10
11. Les Ruines Du Sommeil (Barbazza) 4:10
12. Lotus Flower (Barbazza) 3:33
13. Boîte à Tisanes (Barbazza) 3:42

Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Alberto Callegar at Elfo Studios, Tavernago (PC).
Produced by Max Marchini

Annie Barbazza
with
Camillo Mozzoni
Daniel Lanois
Franz Soprani
Fred Frith
Greg Lake
John Greaves
Lino Capra Vaccina
Max Marchini
Michael Tanner
Olivier Mellano
Paolo Tofani
Paul Roland
William Xerra

Annie Barbazza
Vive
Dark Companion Records
DC 013 - Limited edition first press golden gatefold mini LP CD
DCLP013 - Limited edition gimmix cover colored audiophile Vinyl and golden CD with an original artwork insert by William Xerra
first press of 500 CDs and 300 individually hand numbered vinyl
Released  February 29, 2020

To purchase: http://store.maracash.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=annie+barbazza+vive&search_in_description=1&x=0&y=0

The vinyl first press will be available worldwide only directly from the website here: http://store.maracash.com/product_info.php?products_id=528

Exclusive International Distrubution and Mail Order: www.maracash.com


www.darkcompanion.com
info@darkcompanion.com

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