French Music Legends Magma To Release New Album "Zëss" June 28th!

PRE ORDER NOW -  40 PAGES DELUXE CD BOOK - INCLUDES ALL LYRICS!

FULGURANCE, APOTHEOSIS AND TRANSFIGURATION

Much to the excitement of Magma fans worldwide, the legendary French ensemble will be releasing a new album titled “Zëss” on June 28, 2019! The CD is now available for pre-order and features a 40-page deluxe CD book which includes all the lyrics to the album.

“Zëss”—the name itself is sharp as a blade, slender as a cut, sudden like a darting meteor, fast as it is acute. While the inspiration that permeates “Zëss” comes from time immemorial, a first draft emerged in 1977. After being gradually completed, the piece debuted in concert in the spring of 1979. It became a staple of Magma’s repertoire until it was set aside in 1983.

The music itself seems born out of the night in order to transfigure it. The first chords ring out in the dim dawn, then rise and cast their great shadows against the day. Already their orb suggests the oval shape of an ancient stadium set in the cosmic darkness. It is an immense celestial arena, an agora where all the voices of the universe resonate. Everyone has assembled for a last celebration, a gathering of the innumerable into a single point where everything comes together for the Day of Oblivion.

“Zëss” had long been plagued by its incompleteness and its recording was deferred for years. Four decades after its first draft, the work has finally been recorded in an orchestral version that gives it both its true dreamlike dimension and its transcending power. For “Zëss” is above all the visionary reflection of an immemorial dream haunting the most obscure part of our souls.

“Zëss” treads a line between a vital overflowing and the edges of the unlivable. It is an incandescent and heady oratorio where consciousness questions its other side in a measureless journey. “Zëss” indicates the ultimate reversal out of which bursts a beyond of music that only music can reach. Magma's whole story condensed…

BEHIND THE SCENE OF THE RECORDING:

PRE ORDER NOW - AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE ON JUNE 28th - AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT SEVENTH RECORDS ON JUNE 14th - 40 PAGES DELUXE CD BOOK - INCLUDES ALL LYRICS 

For more information: https://www.seventhrecords.com/en/magma-19/zess-1284.html

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

French Music Legends Magma To Release New Album "Zëss" June 28th!

PRE ORDER NOW -  40 PAGES DELUXE CD BOOK - INCLUDES ALL LYRICS!

FULGURANCE, APOTHEOSIS AND TRANSFIGURATION

Much to the excitement of Magma fans worldwide, the legendary French ensemble will be releasing a new album titled “Zëss” on June 28, 2019! The CD is now available for pre-order and features a 40-page deluxe CD book which includes all the lyrics to the album.

“Zëss”—the name itself is sharp as a blade, slender as a cut, sudden like a darting meteor, fast as it is acute. While the inspiration that permeates “Zëss” comes from time immemorial, a first draft emerged in 1977. After being gradually completed, the piece debuted in concert in the spring of 1979. It became a staple of Magma’s repertoire until it was set aside in 1983.

The music itself seems born out of the night in order to transfigure it. The first chords ring out in the dim dawn, then rise and cast their great shadows against the day. Already their orb suggests the oval shape of an ancient stadium set in the cosmic darkness. It is an immense celestial arena, an agora where all the voices of the universe resonate. Everyone has assembled for a last celebration, a gathering of the innumerable into a single point where everything comes together for the Day of Oblivion.

“Zëss” had long been plagued by its incompleteness and its recording was deferred for years. Four decades after its first draft, the work has finally been recorded in an orchestral version that gives it both its true dreamlike dimension and its transcending power. For “Zëss” is above all the visionary reflection of an immemorial dream haunting the most obscure part of our souls.

“Zëss” treads a line between a vital overflowing and the edges of the unlivable. It is an incandescent and heady oratorio where consciousness questions its other side in a measureless journey. “Zëss” indicates the ultimate reversal out of which bursts a beyond of music that only music can reach. Magma's whole story condensed…

BEHIND THE SCENE OF THE RECORDING:

PRE ORDER NOW - AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE ON JUNE 28th - AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT SEVENTH RECORDS ON JUNE 14th - 40 PAGES DELUXE CD BOOK - INCLUDES ALL LYRICS 

For more information: https://www.seventhrecords.com/en/magma-19/zess-1284.html

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

Swiss Minimalistic Jazz Ensemble Akku Quintet To Release Fourth Album "Depart" On Trey Gunn's 7dMedia Label

Featuring Sonar drummer Manuel Pasquinelli

The Akku Quintet was founded by drummer and composer Manuel Pasquinelli. Says renown writer Sid Smith, “Best-known for his work in Swiss post-rock minimalist outfit, SONAR, Pasquinelli's writing contains an almost cinematic dimension that encompasses bittersweet moods and moments of unfolding drama.” The band is based in Switzerland, from where they dispense a minimalistic jazz groove to great effect.

Since their first concerts in 2011 the band gained more and more international attention (North-America tour in autumn 2018). Their debut album “Stages of Sleep” was released in May 2013 (Morpheus Records). The quintet then set the different phases of sleep to music. Following their acclaimed 2015 album “Molecules” Akku Quintet released their third record “Aeon” in 2017. In October 2018 the band toured Canada and USA.

Their fourth album “Depart” is the first to be released on Trey Gunn's (King Crimson, Security Project) 7d Media label on May 17th.

Says Manuel, “We have chosen 'Depart' as the album title because it describes very good the general feeling/spirit of the album. I'd say compared to our previous albums, 'Depart' is more driving and expressive. I think one can hear a forward-moving undertone on all the tracks. The title track 'Depart' comes along in a courageous and at the same time doubting and mysterious mood, performed with lots of playfulness. 'Depart' was the best word to describe the mood of this track and the album in general.”

“The group connect and lock together yet remain constantly in motion, maintaining a balletic poise and grace that skilfully builds and adds line upon line of long, sonorous notes. Though each one on its own might be gossamer-thin, when combined, they create something strong and enduring, something substantial and memorable.” - Sid Smith  

Akku Quintet's new album still has a minimalistic touch, but you'll hear more of the soloistic qualities of the group members. It's a colourful, powerful album of a well attuned band. Recorded live in the studio April 16-19, 2018, the compositions were written by Manuel Pasquinelli.

Says Manuel, “We recorded the album within 4 days. All the songs were performed live in the studio, playing all together as a band. We rehearsed/developed the music in a short but intense rehearsal phase. At the weekend before the studio we played one concert with the new material. In the studio we were well prepared but the songs were still new for us. The music was finally shaped while playing as a group in the studio. I've written the music over a period of several months. Some sketches I already had long before, but there are also parts or songs that I've written just one or two weeks before the studio session.”

Line Up:
Michael Gilsenan: Sax
Maja Nydegger: Keys
Markus Ischer: Guit
Andi Schnellmann: Bass
Manuel Pasquinelli: Drums

Manuel Pasquinelli is also known as drummer of the band Sonar which is currently collaborating with David Torn and Bill Laswell. Andi Schnellmann is regularly touring with Schnellertollermeier (Cuneiform Records). In support of the new release the Akku Quintet will have some album-release gigs in Europe in May and will be touring in Europe and Russia in autumn. The band also hopes to play North America again soon.

In closing Manuel has this to impart, “My goal is to impart a specific mood to the listener. Not a concrete story, but a mood and a progression with changing conditions/colors to dive in as a listener. And I hope one can listen a tune on the album several times and discover always new things in the song and look at it/listen to it with a different focus/perspective.”

To purchase: https://akkuquintet7d.bandcamp.com/album/depart

For more information:
www.akkuquintet.com
www.facebook.com/akkuquintet


www.7dmedia.com

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

Swiss Minimalistic Jazz Ensemble Akku Quintet To Release Fourth Album "Depart" On Trey Gunn's 7dMedia Label

Featuring Sonar drummer Manuel Pasquinelli

The Akku Quintet was founded by drummer and composer Manuel Pasquinelli. Says renown writer Sid Smith, “Best-known for his work in Swiss post-rock minimalist outfit, SONAR, Pasquinelli's writing contains an almost cinematic dimension that encompasses bittersweet moods and moments of unfolding drama.” The band is based in Switzerland, from where they dispense a minimalistic jazz groove to great effect.

Since their first concerts in 2011 the band gained more and more international attention (North-America tour in autumn 2018). Their debut album “Stages of Sleep” was released in May 2013 (Morpheus Records). The quintet then set the different phases of sleep to music. Following their acclaimed 2015 album “Molecules” Akku Quintet released their third record “Aeon” in 2017. In October 2018 the band toured Canada and USA.

Their fourth album “Depart” is the first to be released on Trey Gunn's (King Crimson, Security Project) 7d Media label on May 17th.

Says Manuel, “We have chosen 'Depart' as the album title because it describes very good the general feeling/spirit of the album. I'd say compared to our previous albums, 'Depart' is more driving and expressive. I think one can hear a forward-moving undertone on all the tracks. The title track 'Depart' comes along in a courageous and at the same time doubting and mysterious mood, performed with lots of playfulness. 'Depart' was the best word to describe the mood of this track and the album in general.”

“The group connect and lock together yet remain constantly in motion, maintaining a balletic poise and grace that skilfully builds and adds line upon line of long, sonorous notes. Though each one on its own might be gossamer-thin, when combined, they create something strong and enduring, something substantial and memorable.” - Sid Smith  

Akku Quintet's new album still has a minimalistic touch, but you'll hear more of the soloistic qualities of the group members. It's a colourful, powerful album of a well attuned band. Recorded live in the studio April 16-19, 2018, the compositions were written by Manuel Pasquinelli.

Says Manuel, “We recorded the album within 4 days. All the songs were performed live in the studio, playing all together as a band. We rehearsed/developed the music in a short but intense rehearsal phase. At the weekend before the studio we played one concert with the new material. In the studio we were well prepared but the songs were still new for us. The music was finally shaped while playing as a group in the studio. I've written the music over a period of several months. Some sketches I already had long before, but there are also parts or songs that I've written just one or two weeks before the studio session.”

Line Up:
Michael Gilsenan: Sax
Maja Nydegger: Keys
Markus Ischer: Guit
Andi Schnellmann: Bass
Manuel Pasquinelli: Drums

Manuel Pasquinelli is also known as drummer of the band Sonar which is currently collaborating with David Torn and Bill Laswell. Andi Schnellmann is regularly touring with Schnellertollermeier (Cuneiform Records). In support of the new release the Akku Quintet will have some album-release gigs in Europe in May and will be touring in Europe and Russia in autumn. The band also hopes to play North America again soon.

In closing Manuel has this to impart, “My goal is to impart a specific mood to the listener. Not a concrete story, but a mood and a progression with changing conditions/colors to dive in as a listener. And I hope one can listen a tune on the album several times and discover always new things in the song and look at it/listen to it with a different focus/perspective.”

To purchase: https://akkuquintet7d.bandcamp.com/album/depart

For more information:
www.akkuquintet.com
www.facebook.com/akkuquintet


www.7dmedia.com

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

Avant-Jazz Group The Oddyssey Quartet To Release Sophomore Album "We Are All Branches of the Same Tree" - January 19, 2019

Following up their debut of composed music “Suite for the End of the Earth,” “We Are All Branches of the Same Tree” is the second release from avant-jazz group the Oddyssey Quartet,  featuring twelve improvised pieces from four musicians who have only played together a handful of times but who share the common ancient language of music, bringing them together in a cohesion of intuitive conversation, and demonstrating in real time that we all really are branches of the same tree. Featuring former Albert Ayler Quintet bassist Bill Folwell, and former Sam Rivers Rivbea Orchestra saxophonist David Pate, with Jose Cochez on drums, and Rex Shepherd on guitar and prepared guitar.

“After recording 'Suite for the End of the Earth,' which consisted of composed music, and having only played together as a group a few times, we wanted to see what we would get playing totally free. There was such a good vibe in the room with the four of us that it made playing so easy, the ideas flowed, I could respond to the sounds around me and the natural ebb and flow of conversational music happened. For me it is a spiritual thing, experiencing a wordless connection to others, when the music comes together and reveals the common thread in all of us.” - Rex Shepherd



Tracks
1. Surculus
2. Osier
3. Telgo
4. Spray
5. Switch
6. Ramus
7. Seten
8. Bough 
9. Vimen 
10. Shrag 
11. Stofn 
12. Withie 

Release Date January 19, 2019

To purchase: https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/we-are-all-branches-of-the-same-tree

For more information: 
https://rexshep.com
https://www.facebook.com/musicpagerexshepherd/
Contact: jazzman465@yahoo.com

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

David Pate & Rex Shepherd, One Half of the Oddyssey Quartet, To Release New Album "Seeing Sound" - December 21, 2018

The first duet release from one half of the Oddyssey Quartet, with David Pate (Sam Rivers Rivbea Orchestra) and guitarist and composer Rex Shepherd (No End of Now). “Seeing Sound” features the two playing an improvised set, creating palpable musical textures using subtle harmonic and melodic ideas and developing them into intuitive conversations, “seeing” the sound of two like minds speaking with one another.

“Playing duets with David Pate is like having a meaningful conversation with a good friend while standing on the precipice of a steep cliff, all the while wondering if you might fall off. As we played this music, we seemed to intuitively happen upon a common musical vision, so I thought that 'Seeing Sound' was an appropriate title.” - Rex Shepherd

Tracks
1. Observation 
2. Meaning Everything
3. Concept      
4. Saying Nothing
5. Recognition
6. Left is Right
7. Facts?            
8.  Turn A Round 
9.  Outsideways 
10. Seeing Sound
11. Finding Space 
12. Mind Full       
13. Commonality
14. Sound Seeing

David Pate - tenor & soprano saxophones


Rex Shepherd - guitar and prepared guitar


Release Date December 21st, 2018

To purchase: https://rexshepherd.bandcamp.com/album/seeing-sound

For more information: 
https://rexshep.com/other-projects
https://www.facebook.com/musicpagerexshepherd/
Contact: jazzman465@yahoo.com

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

"Jazz On A Summer's Day" 60th Anniversary Edition - 1958 Newport Jazz Festival

Bert Stern's acclaimed film of the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival is newly restored for its 60th Anniversary

“Jazz on a Summer's Day” is one of the greatest concert movies ever made, a timeless record of the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival, with some of the most stunning images of live music ever brought to the cinema screen.

Conceived by stills photographer Bert Stern (Vogue magazine, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn) and brilliantly filmed over three days in August 1958, “Jazz On A Summer's Day” provided the template for future concert documentaries such as Monterey and Woodstock.

Interspersing footage of the crowd and fashions of late Fifties America, the America's Cup yacht race with artists live on stage and largely devoid of dialogue, Stern's fluid form perfectly echoes the jazz vibe tempering a fly-on-the-wall documentary style with surreal, dreamlike flourishes.

Although the festival featured a glittering array of jazz giants such as Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, Anita O'Day, Dinah Washington, George Shearing, and Gerry Mulligan, the event encompassed far more. Chuck Berry duck-walked his way to rock glory, Big Maybelle provided her powerhouse R&B and the magnificent Mahalia Jackson delivered gospel in a manner that demonstrated what true soul was all about.

In 1999, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Bert Stern's acclaimed film of the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival is newly restored for its 60th Anniversary by Richard J Whittaker of FX with DVD authoring by Ray Shulman at I-Sonic while the soundtrack has been digitally remastered for CD by Peter Reynolds at Reynolds Mastering and for the first time ever, mastered at half-speed by Barry Grint at Alchemy Studios on two 33 1/3 rpm audiophile Vinyl LPs.

Released on Charly Records, the special edition comes housed in a lavish, blue-foil blocked fully-illustrated 40-page hardback book complete with new, definitive sleeve notes by Mojo's Fred Dellar, including artist and track-by-track details.

DVD extras include an interview with Bert Stern, an introduction to “Jazz on a Summer's Day,” artist biographies and photo gallery.

60TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
DVD | CD | VINYL | BOOK
• Complete film DVD + bonus
documentary + extras
• Newly-remastered soundtrack
on CD
• 2 x 10-inch LPs mastered
half-speed on audiophile vinyl
• 40-page lavishly illustrated
hardback book
• New liner notes by Fred Dellar

Release date: 26th October 2018

“An audio-visual treat, a moment to savour from the Indian summer of Jazz.” - THE GUARDIAN

“Sixty years on, 'Jazz on a Summer's Day' remains a timeless venture, forever memorable.” - Fred Dellar, MOJO MAGAZINE

To purchase: http://smarturl.it/JAZZis60

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

Instrumental New Age /Ambient/Jazz Review: Jeff Oster-Reach

Release Date: October 5, 2018

Label: Retso Records 
Website

Three years ago, I covered Jeff Oster’s Next album. If you do a search on my New Age Music Reviews site it will show several other artist reviews as well. The reason is that Jeff is in demand to play on other people’s albums. There is a very good reason for this. He is one of the few Flugelhorn and Trumpet players in the genre that plays a chill ambient type of music that new age recording artists and listeners alike want to hear. He also is able to interject jazz and funk elements into his recordings. Besides that, it is a great partnership. Jeff is masterful with his instruments and with the new album out now titled Reach, he is in great form and so are the folks that accompanied him on the album.

Reach has nine tracks in total and it is a great mixture of sound and textures that will do many things to you while listening including relaxing, feeling energized and wanting to move, becoming contemplative, just about everything one person can think of or do during the listen of one album really. It invites you in at the outset and you never want to leave that “musical comfy chair.”

I love new age music when it combines jazz and world rudiments. “Le Caveau” is a great example of those sounds and atmospheres getting in sync. The music and sound clarity are amazing. The following track “Five Great Mountains” is just hypnotic. Jeff’s horn is superlative and the bass is incredible, in fact, I thought it might be Tony Levin, who seems to show up on everyone’s albums. It is, in fact, Benjamin J. Shepherd, who plays a huge role in the track, and the entire sound of the album actually. His rhythm and musical leadership in the track are exemplary. That kind of preciseness allows the star of the show to shine even brighter, so hats off to Benjamin for doing such a great job with his instrument. Everyone involved in this project is outstanding so I felt the need to list the credits below.

Some of the other instruments on this recording, besides the horns of course, that give it an overall world-jazz flavor, are the Erhu and Indian Flutes. Then there are very calming spiritual tracks like “The Lotus Within.” In my estimation, the reference would be the Lotus flower, a symbolically important aquatic Asian plant also known as the Indian or sacred lotus.  The emphasis is on sacred for this magnificent composition. 

To keep things fresh and on your “listening toes,” Jeff follows those two critical tracks with an upbeat jazz and funk-filled number titled “Troppo Y Boffo.” The Latin percussion and bass pulsate and drive the number while Jeff just glides through with his horn putting the veritable icing on the cake. It is Latin bliss, wonderful and colorful as it gets. This track could find a home on any good (worthy) jazz album.

Jeff Oster puts it all together on Reach. Every track is solid and consistent throughout. The combination of instruments, musical style and artistry of every contributing musician make this album one of the best in the genre this year. This comes as no surprise to me as everything I have ever heard from Jeff has been superlative from his own recordings to being a guest on other recordings. He is in a groove that keeps him at the forefront of the music industry and I can see that influence growing more all the time. In conclusion, I think that he will Reach a much larger audience with each successive release

Artists:

Jeff Oster – Flugelhorn, Trumpet

Ruslan Sirota – Piano, Keyboards, Guitar, Vocals

Robyn Ghosh – Guitar

Benjamin J. Shepherd – Bass

Tamir Barzilay – Drums

Pete Korpela – Percussion

Jenni Asher – Erhu (Track 4)

Ravichandra Kulur – Indian Flutes (Track 9)

Drew Allsbrook – Vocals (Track 4)

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

October 14, 2018

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks: 
1. Onward
2. Far Rockaway
3. Le Caveau
4. Five Great Mountains
5. The Lotus Within
6. Troppo Y Boffo
7. How Familiar
8. Velvet and Smoke
9. The Pink City

San Francisco Jazz Singer NOA LEVY to Release Her Debut EP TAKE TWO & Perform a RISING STAR SHOWCASE at the California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley

San Francisco, CA – With a beautiful, rounded voice and a magnetic stage presence, NOA LEVY is a unique and charismatic female vocalist and performer who sings across genres – Jazz, Rock, Cabaret, Musicals, and Pop. She has set a worldwide digital release date of August 17, 2018, for her recently recorded debut TAKE TWO EP, a thoughtful collection of Jazz arrangements featuring NOA LEVY in a duo format with three different instrumentalists. That same day, Noa will headline her own RISING STAR SHOWCASE at the California Jazz Conservatory, featuring songs from the TAKE TWO EP as well as other material.

Drawing on influences from her favorite musicians and artists including Peter Gabriel, Brad Mehldau, and Carmen McRae, NOA LEVY has developed her own signature arrangements of classic and unique tunes to paint a picture that anyone listening can relate to. Her favorite thing about jazz is the possibility to collaborate with fellow musicians about universal themes and day to day life, and her arrangements on the TAKE TWO EP are the fruit of some of these collaborations. She is also developing her own original songwriting, and will perform a handful of shows to support the release of the TAKE TWO EP throughout the summer and fall of 2018.

NOA LEVY is currently studying and honing her craft at the California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley, CA, while also working on her repertoire and performing with local musicians in the San Francisco Bay Area. Originally born in Jerusalem, she grew up for most of her life in Israel. She has performed with Israel’s National Chamber Orchestra, was invited to tour and record an album with Israel’s leading composer and pianist, Yoni Rechter, and was co-lead singer for the popular ABBA tribute band, Waterloo. She also arranged and directed her own cabaret show, Cheetah. Since moving to San Francisco in 2016, NOA LEVY has immersed herself in the world of jazz. In 2017, Jazz in the Neighborhood twice recognized her as an Emerging Artist, providing her the opportunity to perform and study with the eminent Bay Area jazz singer Clairdee and the prolific Brazilian jazz singer and composer Sandy Cressman. She was also invited to collaborate on the Jazz Voices of Poetry project which debuted new material early in 2018.

Her passion for performance was apparent at just four years old when her grandparents found her dancing on stage at a large music festival. While listening to Queen’s Greatest Hits on a cassette tape given by her father, she discovered her singing voice at age 12 – she was blown away by the amazing musicality and vocal talents of Freddie Mercury and she’s been singing ever since. In middle school, she joined a renowned local theater group and starred in lead roles as the group toured Israel.

At 18, for her mandatory military service, NOA LEVY auditioned for and was inducted into the IDF’s prestigious Navy Ensemble where she performed throughout Israel and also toured across the United States. Following her IDF service, she pursued her passion and developed her talent for musical theater at the London School of Musical Theatre in London, England, earning a diploma. Afterwards, she concentrated on music studies at Rimon School of Music in Israel.

The first release party for her TAKE TWO EP will be held on August 17, 2018, at the California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley (formerly known as the Jazzschool). A privately-owned non-profit music school founded in 1997, the school won accreditation as a conservatory in early 2014, and is the only American school with a year-round jazz music program.

For more information about NOA LEVY please visit: www.noalevylive.com

To purchase tickets to the RISING STAR SHOWCASE on August 17, 2018, please visit: https://cjc.edu/concerts/?eid=27355

To Pre-Order the TAKE TWO EP on digital services please visit: http://smarturl.it/NoaLevyTakeTwo

To Pre-Order the TAKE TWO EP on Bandcamp please visit: https://noalevylive.bandcamp.com

For Press and Interview inquiries please contact Billy James of Glass Onyon PR: (828) 350-8158 or glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Digital Marketing please contact Jerome Forney of Independent Distribution Collective: jerome@independentdistro.com

Instrumental New Age/World/Jazz Reviews: Erik Scott-A Trick of the Wind

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Label: Erik Scott Music

Website

Erik Scott is an incredibly talented bass player. He is true to his art form in so many ways. He continues with his string of solo releases with A Trick of the Wind. 

Previously I had the distinct pleasure of covering Spirits (2014) and In The Company of Clouds (2016). On A Trick of the Wind I heard a similar mix of new age, world and jazz, which I absolutely love. The mixture is superb and Erik’s bass playing is outstanding as usual. 

To put it into the most logical terms, I think Erik ranks up there with Michael Manring in the new age genre and on a larger scale, with Tony Levin. He has been around as long as those two marvelous players. That about says it all from my perspective.

The nine tracks encompassing this recording is indeed a prolific gathering of music. There is a constant flow of change and unpredictability, which I genuinely appreciate. I get bored very easily, especially with music that has no spark or change throughout it. This is never a problem with one of Erik’s albums.

“Ghost of Storyville” adds a little spice of jazz injections that is just enough to push it over the edge into a “worldly” sound. I do believe that taking any other instrument than the guitar or the keyboards as the lead instrument can be risqué at best. You had better be a complete master with whatever instrument you plan on introducing as the lead. There is no issue for Erik as the lead with his music. There is just enough ambiance and textures added with other instruments that allow him to keep bass in the forefront of the music. Not only that, he demands your attention and his sound is distinctly his own. This is where audiophiles and other musicians separate the men from the boys. 

I found “The Invisible Wand” storybook enchanting. The addition of the female vocals keeping time and a rhythm made it that much more special. If the voice is right for the music it then becomes another instrument. In this instance, it most certainly applied.

I always have to give a nod to the artwork on the album. The cover is self-explanatory. The satin-like red cloth is “A Trick of the Wind.” Notice the way it looks like a ghost behind the text with Erik’s name and the title of the album? I got what it was saying quite quickly and my eyes were attracted to the cover immediately. That is a good thing, so good job with that part of the presentation Erik!

“Born Dreaming,” which is a great title in any case, is a fantastic representation of the music that Erik does the best. It is flowing, bright, attention-getting, and the beauty just abounds from start to finish. If I had to pick one song that says Erik loud and clear it is this one.

Every track is a slice of the artist and for me, it was like saying hello again to an old friend. Two years is too long to wait for your phenomenal music Erik! You bring all listeners a sense of spirit, strength and hope with your sounds. You may see another album of the year from ZMR with this one.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 4, 2018

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews


Tracks:
1. Wings
2. The Wind Sings A Strange Song
3. The Ghost of Storyville
4. A Trick of the Wind
5. Solooka
6. Wing and a Prayer
7. The Invisible Wand
8. Born Dreaming
9. A Child Remains
 

Concert Review: Roomful of Blues

Roomful of Blues Turns the Infinity Hall in Norfolk, Connecticut Into A Cathedral of Sound

June 30, 2018

https://www.roomful.com/

It was a hot summer night in Norfolk, CT on the last day of June but it was about to reach a boil at the Infinity Hall with the arrival of Roomful of Blues.

I knew of this band and the name certainly was familiar however I never took a deep dive into their music. Just knowing they had been around since 1977 and had a horn section told me something. Any blues band with a horn section can play quite a variety of blues and jazz. At least in my experience, it always turned out that way. You may think I was taking a chance of not being familiar with their music however with the knowledge I did have I went forward feeling this would be a stellar performance.

As it turned out, everything about the evening was great. The drive in on the back roads of New England is always such a pleasure. As I drove by all the houses and admired the old stone walls, I felt at home. And once we went into the Infinity Hall Bistro, I felt very welcomed. The service and folks working there are incredibly helpful and courteous. The menu at the Bistro is quite diverse as well.  This is what I call the ”complete” concert experience.

Prior to the show, I decided to get the T-Shirt commemorating their 50-year anniversary and a release from 2011 titled Hook Line & Sinker on the Alligator Records label. I was attracted to the cover art, which reminded me of the World War II Rosie the Riveter image. I am sure besides the artwork, it will be a terrific listen.

50 years is a mighty long time keep it together. There have been lineup changes over the years, which is expected for such a long stretch of time, however, their main groove and mojo is still intact and ready to roll while on tour.

What also impressed me is a staff member minds the swag booth for the band.  I was also informed that they have a green room for visiting artists. The room is totally furnished and they make sure nobody goes on the stage with an empty stomach. 

So, after being so impressed and quite comfortable I made my way upstairs to the concert hall. I call it “The Cathedral of Sound.” Sounds kind of catchy doesn’t it?

There was no opening act so I had nothing but a Roomful of Blues to enjoy. Little did I know that was in a literal sense.

This band is a well-oiled machine that presents a wide variety of blues and jazz within each number. I really appreciated the interludes of jamming in between vocals. The musicianship is outstanding and the combination of horns, standup bass, keyboards, percussion and amazing vocals make it all one remarkable show. You are going to hear flat out rockin’ blues peppered with jazz, some honkytonk piano tucked in between it all and more. Every member of the band gets their time in the spotlight on their stage. Everyone also got acknowledged separately and as a whole by the admiring audience.

This is not just the “blues” people, this is progressive blues and all the trimmings. This amazing band proved that fact all night long. Seeing a band play live and stretch out and flex their musical muscles is the best way to know who they really are. I found out who Roomful of Blues is, one serious group of musicians that are full of the soul of the blues, the tastefulness of jazz and the oomph to rock. That is one deadly combination.

Catch them live as soon as you can! If you are looking to visit a quaint New England town and enjoy a great meal and an evening of fantastic entertainment, stop by the Infinity Hall in Norfolk CT and catch a show.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 2, 2018

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Set List:

01. Introduction

02. It All Went Down The Drain

03. Alright, Okay, You Win

04. I Would Be a Sinner

05. I'd Rather Be Blind, Crippled and Crazy

06. Easy Baby

07. Boogie Woogie Country Girl

08. Two For The Price Of Ten

09. Too Much Boogie

10. Your Love Was Never There

11. Baby I'm Gone

12. Just Keep On Rockin'

13. My Baby Quit Me

14. Showcase

15. Body and Fender Man

Encore:

   16. New Orleans

   17. One More Mile 
 

Music Legend SHUGGIE OTIS Lets His Guitar Take Center Stage On A New Fusion Rock Album INTER-FUSION!

Features drummer Carmine Appice & bassist Tony Franklin!

Los Angeles, CA - Though most known for his soulful songwriting and gentle croon as heard on blockbuster hits such as “Strawberry Letter 23” and “Inspiration Information,” Shuggie Otis has long been held as one of the most innovative and tasteful guitarists to ever pick up the 6-strings, the “heir to Hendrix” as he is often called. A guitar-playing prodigy from an early age, Shuggie performed on stage and in the studio alongside his legendary father, bluesman Johnny Otis. Now, Shuggie has a new project that showcases just how mindblowing he can be on the pearly frets of his gorgeous maroon Gibson SG, an adventurous new fusion rock project called Inter-Fusion. The album consists of mostly instrumental tracks that groove and weave, taking unexpected turns in surprising directions but all anchored by one of the finest rhythm sections imaginable featuring drummer Carmine Appice (of Vanilla Fudge and Beck, Bogert & Appice) and bass player Tony Franklin (of The Firm and Roy Harper). In addition, keyboardist Kyle Hamood (of local L.A. rockers Them Guns) steps in as both a musician and producer of the album bringing the absolute best performances possible out of each player.

Reflecting on the recording process, Appice enthuses “This was one of the wildest sessions I’ve ever done in my career!” while Franklin had high praise for Otis, saying “Shuggie loved to jam, and was very open to everyone's input. He was not afraid to experiment and try new directions and sounds. I think the music sounds very fresh and alive.” Additionally, Hamood summed up his thoughts on this unique experience saying “Watching the songs come together over such a short period of time, and the diversity that each band member brought to the overall sound and vibe was truly magical. It was an honor to work and create with such a talented group of musicians.”

In a behind-the-scenes promotional video, shot by director Vicente Cordero, Shuggie likewise gushes over the project and his fellow collaborators saying in conversation with Cleopatra owner Brian Perera, “Wow! Did you know it was going to be this good? I know how good it is because I’m in the group. But you’ve seen a little bit of it, and I think you know, you feel the excitement, you hear how good these guys are. And they’re really serious, not just some jive cats!”

Check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/yXFg8zlXqHI

Inter-Fusion will be available April 20th on both CD, vinyl and on all digital platforms.



Track List:
1. Aphelion
2. Get A Grip
3. Ice Cold Daydream
4. Interlude
5. Woman
6. Sweet Surrender
7. Clear Power
8. V8

Buy the CD: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/shuggie-otis-inter-fusion-cd/
Buy the digital: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/inter-fusion/1362748941?app=itunes&at=1000lt9k

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
https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs
Dailymotion @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
Vimeo @cleopatrarecords
https://vimeo.com/cleopatrarecords
Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
https://open.spotify.com/user/cleopatra_recs
Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

Music Legend SHUGGIE OTIS Lets His Guitar Take Center Stage On A New Fusion Rock Album INTER-FUSION!

Features drummer Carmine Appice & bassist Tony Franklin!

Los Angeles, CA - Though most known for his soulful songwriting and gentle croon as heard on blockbuster hits such as “Strawberry Letter 23” and “Inspiration Information,” Shuggie Otis has long been held as one of the most innovative and tasteful guitarists to ever pick up the 6-strings, the “heir to Hendrix” as he is often called. A guitar-playing prodigy from an early age, Shuggie performed on stage and in the studio alongside his legendary father, bluesman Johnny Otis. Now, Shuggie has a new project that showcases just how mindblowing he can be on the pearly frets of his gorgeous maroon Gibson SG, an adventurous new fusion rock project called Inter-Fusion. The album consists of mostly instrumental tracks that groove and weave, taking unexpected turns in surprising directions but all anchored by one of the finest rhythm sections imaginable featuring drummer Carmine Appice (of Vanilla Fudge and Beck, Bogert & Appice) and bass player Tony Franklin (of The Firm and Roy Harper). In addition, keyboardist Kyle Hamood (of local L.A. rockers Them Guns) steps in as both a musician and producer of the album bringing the absolute best performances possible out of each player.

Reflecting on the recording process, Appice enthuses “This was one of the wildest sessions I’ve ever done in my career!” while Franklin had high praise for Otis, saying “Shuggie loved to jam, and was very open to everyone's input. He was not afraid to experiment and try new directions and sounds. I think the music sounds very fresh and alive.” Additionally, Hamood summed up his thoughts on this unique experience saying “Watching the songs come together over such a short period of time, and the diversity that each band member brought to the overall sound and vibe was truly magical. It was an honor to work and create with such a talented group of musicians.”

In a behind-the-scenes promotional video, shot by director Vicente Cordero, Shuggie likewise gushes over the project and his fellow collaborators saying in conversation with Cleopatra owner Brian Perera, “Wow! Did you know it was going to be this good? I know how good it is because I’m in the group. But you’ve seen a little bit of it, and I think you know, you feel the excitement, you hear how good these guys are. And they’re really serious, not just some jive cats!”

Check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/yXFg8zlXqHI

Inter-Fusion will be available April 20th on both CD, vinyl and on all digital platforms.



Track List:
1. Aphelion
2. Get A Grip
3. Ice Cold Daydream
4. Interlude
5. Woman
6. Sweet Surrender
7. Clear Power
8. V8

Buy the CD: https://cleorecs.com/store/shop/shuggie-otis-inter-fusion-cd/
Buy the digital: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/inter-fusion/1362748941?app=itunes&at=1000lt9k

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
https://soundcloud.com/cleopatra-recs
Dailymotion @Cleopatrarecords
https://www.dailymotion.com/CleopatraRecords
Vimeo @cleopatrarecords
https://vimeo.com/cleopatrarecords
Spotify  @cleopatra_recs
https://open.spotify.com/user/cleopatra_recs
Linkedin @cleopatra-records
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleopatra-records

Concert Review: Eric Johnson In Concert At Infinity Hall With Arielle In Norfolk Connecticut

Eric Johnson In Concert At Infinity Hall 
With Arielle 
Norfolk, Connecticut

Ah Via Musicom Tour 2018

March 10, 2018

https://www.ericjohnson.com/  -  https://www.imarielle.com/

My first visit to the Infinity Hall in Norfolk CT was a prolific one. I say that because I was about to catch six-string slinger Eric Johnson for the second time. Last night was different, however. This night he would perform his entire Ah Via Musicom album. This was the album that introduced me to his music some 28 years ago, it also happens to be my favorite recording in his substantial catalog.

Infinity Hall is a beautiful venue complete with a bistro, bar, minibar and a wonderful theater upstairs that upon first blush, looks like a church/barn, but very beautiful. All 300 seats are there on one floor (including an upper level with tables for folks with food from the Bistro), and there is not a bad seat in the house. Plus, there is standing room only in the back for overflow. It was a sold-out show, which came as no surprise. 

To start the night off Arielle was going to warm up the crowd. She is an up and

coming artist from Texas that recently released a 5 track EP called Mind Lion. Before she came out onstage a group of four ladies sat next to me. As fate would have it they were all of Arielle's aunts! And quite the cheering section as well. Although, the crowd did take to the young lady quickly, so the cheering section was getting plenty of help from an appreciative audience. One of the lovely ladies sitting next to me informed me that Brian May of Queen had taken her under his wing for a while and now EJ was doing the same thing. So, needless to say, the development of this artist has been in good hands. 

Arielle is a natural talent. It takes a lot of guts to come out on stage all by yourself and she passed with flying colors. Her voice is magnificent and she really knows how to bend those guitar strings. Her 30-minute set covered everything from ballads, blues, and shredding. The shredding example is provided with the song "Take II" (check out the video) with her favorite two-tone guitar that she made. Interesting enough, Brian May made his guitar as well prior to forming Queen.

I can't say enough about Arielle, she is one of the most dynamic and talented young ladies I have seen onstage in quite some time. Her future looks very bright.

After she was done Eric Johnson and his original band segued on to the stage, so there was no break in the music, not yet. Tommy Taylor (drums) and Kyle Brock (bass), who provide a rock-solid foundation for Johnson to lay his licks on, stepped out with EJ. What a night we were in for!

Johnson's first set was very diverse. I think that word properly tells the story of what he brings to the table. His mix includes rock, blues, jazz, and pop. It is always interesting and extremely entertaining. There was so much going on for a trio I find it difficult to put it all into the right context. So, what we witnessed was a walk down memory lane on the first set, which included a pumped up and rockin' version of The Beatles song "The Night Before." The mark of a great artist is the ability to take an iconic tune and make it your own. Not an easy task regardless of what level your talent is on. Eric does it all with ease and grace. He makes everything he does look so easy. His battery mates also are right in sync as well. Taylor is a great drummer (and a good vocalist) and Brock is top notch and his bass playing looks quite effortless as well.

After an incredible first set full of amazing musicianship and improvisation we got a 15-minute break to get something to wet the whistle and go visit Arielle and grab her new CD. She was very gracious while signing everyone's swag.

Now the moment everyone was there for was to see EJ play Ah Via Musicom, which by no coincide for many, was the album people there had discovered him through. I found out by chatting with a few people in attendance that this was the case. There was also one lady sitting next to me after Arielle's Aunts had left, that was not a big EJ fan (her fiancé was) but after a few songs in she was a convert! I love to watch people's reactions to the music and this night was exceptional. 

As Mr. Johnson made his way through his trademark release the crowd was all pumped up, however very respectable of the performers and the rest of the people next to them. It was as close to a perfect evening as it could get, actually.

Some of my favorites of the evening where "Stratagem," off his most recent release Collage, "Black Mountain Side," a Led Zeppelin cover, "Cliffs of Dover," my all-time favorite track, and the encore with Arielle on a very old track titled "Zap."

Eric Johnson is a phenomenal guitar player and a very good vocalist. He definitely ranks in my top 10 guitarists of all time. He has flown under the wire a bit in his career and deserves a lot more recognition than he has received. Last night proved to me that there are people out there that understand what a great talent he is. If you have the opportunity and want to see some guitar wizardry then make sure you catch him on tour this year!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 11, 2018

Founder of:

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Set 1: Intro (Arielle introduced the band &… more ) Stratagem S.R.V. The Night Before (The Beatles cover) Trail of Tears Underground (Eric solo on piano) Black Mountain Side (Led Zeppelin cover) (Eric solo) Wanderlust (Arielle cover with Arielle) C.W. (Kyle Brock & Tommy Taylor; without Eric) Camel's Night Out Manhattan Pipeline (The Chantays cover) Set 2 (Ah Via Musicom): Ah Via Musicom Cliffs of Dover Desert Rose High Landrons Steve's Boogie Trademark Nothing Can Keep Me From You Song for George (Eric solo) Righteous Forty Mile Town East Wes Western Flyer Encore: ZAP (With Arielle)