Swiss Minimalistic Jazz Ensemble AKKU Quintet Release New “Live” Album

“Live” takes you on a 75-minute long musical journey and leads you into the cosmos of Swiss-based AKKU Quintet led by drummer and composer Manuel Pasquinelli (also known for his work with Sonar & David Torn). It contains five songs from different stages of the group's history, recorded at various locations between 2016 and 2020. You’ll hear the touch and character of each player, acting as a part of the ensemble to create this atmospheric, minimalistic yet livingly driving music.

Says Manuel, “Playing this music live is always an intense and beautiful experience. While not perfect, live versions often have a certain quality and spirit, which are hard to achieve in the studio. We want to share some live moments we captured on different occasions with this album, especially in this challenging time for live music. We didn’t do any editing. So you will hear truly handmade music. This album might be a good introduction to our work, and maybe one gets curious about the four studio albums we released before.”

“They take the Swiss zen maximalist/minimalist approach of Nik Bärtsch’s Ronin, Sonar, Schnellertollermeier to a different, but utterly logical conclusion. Fabulous stuff. Recommended!” - Steve Feigenbaum, Cuneiform Records

AKKU Quintet is based in Berne (Switzerland), from where they dispense a minimalistic jazz groove to great effect. Drummer Manuel Pasquinelli, who is also responsible for the compositions, founded the band in 2010. Their first concert took place in 2011. Since then, the band has released four studio albums and is playing live regularly. Their latest studio album, “Depart,” was the first one released with 7d Media. Manuel Pasquinelli is also known as the drummer of Sonar, who are collaborating with David Torn and Bill Laswell.

Track List:

01 Waves
Recorded live on October 15, 2017 at bee-flat im Progr, Bern
Album version on “Aeon”

02 Polar
Recorded live on May 8, 2019 at bee-flat im Progr, Bern
Album version on “Aeon”

03 Deep Sleep I
Recorded live on February 18, 2020 at City Pub, Bern
Album version on “Stages of Sleep”

04 Schneemann
05 Deep Sleep II
Recorded on April 10, 2016 at Cully Jazz Festival, Cully
Album versions on “Molecules” and “Stages of Sleep”

AKKU Quintet:
Manuel Pasquinelli - Drums
Michael Gilsenan - Sax & Fx
Maja Nydegger - Grand Piano, Keys
Markus Ischer - Guitar
Andi Schnellmann - Bass

Music written by Manuel Pasquinelli
No edits loops or overdubs on this record

Here’s what the press has said about AKKU Quintet:

“The group connect and lock together yet remain constantly in motion, maintaining a balletic poise and grace that skillfully 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

“There is a spaciousness in these zeros and ones that AKKU Quintet allows to speak for itself. There is no unnecessary noodling to fill the gaps, every note has its place.” - Roger Trenwith, The Progressive Aspect

“I had the great, great pleasure to see them on their final US show in 2018 and they take the ‘Swiss zen maximalist/minimalist approach’ of Ronin, Sonar, Schnellertollermeier to a different, but utterly logical conclusion. Fabulous stuff. Recommended!” - Steve Feigenbaum, Cuneiform Records

“Taking a type of minimalist and mathrock, slowing it down with postrock atmosphere, bringing a tight clean jazz element to it, and creating a set of dreamscape styled equal balance between classical and progressive rock and you have the formula for Switzerland's unique Akku Quintet.” - Lee Henderson, Big Beautiful Noise

“Very beautiful, spacious, minimalist groove.” - Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“Groove becomes a compositional element, beauty an act of concentration, improvisation never a sure-fire success, but a dramaturgical stylistic device.” - Ane Hebeisen

To purchase:
US: https://akkuquintet7d.bandcamp.com/album/live
Europe: www.akkuquintet.bandcamp.com/

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

www.7dmedia.com

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

San Francisco Jazz Ensemble ANDY OSTWALD TRIO Releases their Debut Solo Record FIELD GUIDE through Digital Victrola Records

Andy Ostwald is a San Francisco Bay area-based performer, teacher, and author of the book Play Jazz, Blues, Rock Piano by Ear. He performs as a band leader, sideman, solo pianist, and as a member of Jeff Sanford’s Cartoon Jazz Orchestra. Now with his own ANDY OSTWALD TRIO he is proud to present their debut full-length release FIELD GUIDE on March 18, 2022. The album is a true Field Guide for that meadow we’ve seen before but never traversed, featuring intimate and intensely focused improvised musical travels through overlooked gardens and orchards of sound. Grab a copy of the Field Guide and enjoy your trip!

Andy Ostwald has toured the US and abroad with singer Diane Witherspoon and has performed at many of the San Francisco Bay Area’s notable venues, including the SF Jazz Center, Yoshi’s Oakland & SF, Kuumbwa, and the Great American Music Hall. In 2011, Andy Ostwald began performing with fellow Bay Area musicians Ravi Abcarian (bass) and Bryan Bowman (drums), and the ANDY OSTWALD TRIO was born. They largely developed their group sound while performing at Bocce Café in the North Beach district of San Francisco, an engagement that lasted for five years until 2016. It was during this run that the musicians honed their ability to interact freely and play off one another’s musical ideas.

As a fellow member of Jeff Sanford’s Cartoon Jazz Orchestra, trumpeter Eric Wayne knew the trio and offered to help them record and release their debut album through his own Digital Victrola label. Andy was prepared with a fully formed album concept, including the title FIELD GUIDE, which allowed them to get straight to the business of finding the best material for the release. Recorded during the pandemic, resources were scarce, and it was difficult to find a studio with a worthy piano; they decided to record in Andy Ostwald’s own home with his personal piano on an 8-track HD recorder. They were able to make the most of the home studio environment, with the craftsman-style wood house giving the recording a warm and full sound.

“Since starting Digital Victrola I’ve always had a desire to record a trio album,” says Eric Wayne. “Even though I’m a trumpet player I’ve always felt that the trio format is the distilled essence of jazz and improvisatory music. Every player has to be fully committed, has to listen with their entire body and mind. It was an honor to work with such musicians under the difficulties of a pandemic and limited resources and space, but I’m very happy to have ‘my trio album’ and I hope you will enjoy listening as much as I have.”

Andy Ostwald’s father played a key role in his early musical development. “My dad made a point of introducing me to his favorite early jazz and classical recordings,” says Andy. “He would also pick up his violin and improvise melodies over the scales that I was practicing on the piano; Dad could breathe life into those scales.” By age 12 Andy began improvising over rock songs, and a couple of years later he attended a clinic by jazz pianist Dan Hearle, who introduced him to recordings by three towering figures of jazz piano: Herbie Hancock, Ahmad Jamal, and Oscar Peterson. “The music these musicians created both moved and mystified me,” notes Ostwald, “and in the end, contributed to steering me in the direction of jazz.”

Ostwald received a BA in music from San Jose State University. While there he focused on performing contemporary jazz, classical compositions, and the Gamelan music of Java, and a few years later he spent a year in New York studying with renowned jazz pianist Harold Mabern. Following his stay in New York, Andy returned to his native San Francisco Bay Area to teach and play music. Soon thereafter he met singer Diane Witherspoon and became her piano accompanist. They performed locally on tour in the States, and then on several occasions in Tokyo. Currently Ostwald is a member of Jeff Sanford’s Cartoon Jazz Orchestra and freelances as both a band leader and sideman.

Andy teaches piano at his home in Oakland. He’s also an instructor at Oaktown Jazz Workshops, where Ravi Abcarian is also an instructor and the executive director. Ostwald’s book/audio series Play Jazz, Blues, Rock Piano by Ear was published by Mel Bay Publications in 2004. It remains in print today.

For more information please visit: https://andyostwald.bandcamp.com/album/field-guide or www.andyostwald.com

To order or stream FIELD GUIDE on digital services please visit: https://smarturl.it/AndyOstwaldTrioFG

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

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

MAGMA “MDK” Limited Edition Vinyl of 2000 Numbered Copies Available January 28th

Limited edition of 2000 individually numbered copies on copper-colored vinyl. The album is housed in a gatefold sleeve with a copper foil finish on the front of the sleeve.

The only survivors of the previous formation, Christian VANDER and Klaus BLASQUIZ, surrounded by a renewed team of musicians, invested in the studios of the Manor in Oxford in 1973, to record their “MEKANIK DESTRUKTIW KOMMANDOH,” the album considered by many to be the conductor of work of MAGMA. A long piece articulated in seven movements, “MDK” went through a long gestation period before reaching its final state of achievement. The progress made between the short 45rpm version of the previous formation, where brass work predominated, and the one presented on this album, is considerable. All the credit goes to Christian VANDER who, now alone, will irreversibly take charge of MAGMA’s artistic destiny.

If the group’s instrumental performance has gained even more power, notably with the arrival at the bass of Jannick TOP, whose playing is revealed in perfect symbiosis with the spirit of the music of Christian VANDER, what strikes above all on “MDK” is the epic breath that emerges from the masterful work accomplished by the section vocal. Propelled by an inexorable rhythm and reinforced by a female choir where Stella VANDER appears for the first time, the voices of Klaus and Christian come to haunt our minds with these magnificent songs that seem straight from our collective memory, giving MAGMA’s music a timeless and universal character.

Christian VANDER drums, vocals, organ, percussions
Jannick TOP bass
Klaus BLASQUIZ vocals, percussions
Jean-Luc MANDERLIER piano, organ
René GARBER clarinet, bass, vocals
Claude OLMOS guitar
Teddy LASRY saxophone, flute
Stella VANDER vocals, choirs
Muriel STREISFELD, Evelyne RAZYMOVSKI, Michèle SAULNIER, Doris REIHNARDT choirs

To pre-order: https://www.seventhrecords.com/en/magma-19/m-d-k-limited-edition-of-2000-numbered-1312.html

For more information:
Magma's official website: www.magmamusic.org
Seventh Records: www.seventhrecords.com

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

Experimental Musician Billy Yfantis Releases The Symphonic Music Album “Cinematic Works, Vol. I”

A double album of 50 epic compositions inspired by cinematic artists such as Hans Zimmer, Howard Shore, Rick Wakeman and Vangelis

Athens, Greece - Experimental musician and author Billy Yfantis, releases his 4th solo album entitled “Cinematic Works, Vol. I”. The double album consists of 2 disks featuring 50 instrumental cinematic tracks inspired by the soundtracks of Epic movies such as “The Lord Of The Rings” and “Stars Wars”. The album is the first part of a series of cinematic music albums that Billy intends to release in the next years.

Disc 1 includes compositions that capture the sound design of dramatic, epic scenes of Fantasy Adventure and Sci-Fi movies. Symphonic Classical Music is used as a medium to create a heroic and atmospheric soundtrack for sophisticated listeners. Disc 2 continues the trip of Epic sounds and operatic influences however, there are additional tracks with Jazz and Ambient music elements to complete the puzzle of the atmospheric music soundtrack.

Promotional video (The Empire): 

Promotional video (New Planet): 

Cinematic Works, Vol. I Track list

Disc 1
1. Hail to the King of Wrath
2. Entering the City of Gold
3. The Dragon
4. New Planet
5. Beauty of the New Land
6. Knights of the New Revolution
7. Coming by the Sea
8. The Barbarians
9. Dreaming of the King
10. Hero's Quest
11. Exploring the Field
12. Above the Tower
13. Among the Trees
14. Flag of the New Empire
15. Preparing the Spaceship
16. Neoclassical Runes
17. Reaching the Promised Land
18. Riding the Horses of Heaven
19. Ship
20. The Battle of Sparta
21. The City of Gold
22. Royal Wedding
23. The Dynasty
24. The Kingdom of the Elfs
25. The Empire

Disc 2
26. Age of Innocence
27. At the Church
28. At the Luna Park
29. At the Movies
30. At the Opera with Friends
31. Atmospheric Sunrise
32. Beyond the Clouds
33. Beyond the Mountain
34. Chinese Beauty
35. Drama
36. Fairytale Stories
37. Family Memories
38. Happiness of Yesterday
39. In the Streets of London
40. Jazzy and Nostalgic
41. The Land of Hope
42. The Magic Ring
43. The March of the Elfs
44. The Royal Temptation
45. The Ship of the Pirates
46. The Soldiers
47. The Village
48. The Warrior's Path
49. Trip to the Stars
50. Dreaming the Sky

Listen to the new album here:  
Napster: https://us.napster.com/artist/billy-yfantis/album/cinematic-works-vol-i  
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6DhBVOWts2dmpeLTbF6xX9?si=_QZ3s0urRo6h81NTlM51OQ  
YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ny7cUMEuMyPKjiz86Dox1-KQ8tcdU3dcw
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/cinematic-works-vol-i/1594345429
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/album/271619562
Tidal: https://store.tidal.com/gr/album/204337997
Bandcamp: https://billyyfantis.bandcamp.com/album/cinematic-works-vol-i

Billy Yfantis, except his solo recording career, has a very busy schedule with other related activities. On Jan. 27, 2021 he participated as a guest presenter at the   Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA) by presenting the nominees/winners of the “Best World Music” and “Best Lyrics/Lyricist” awards. You can watch the whole event here:  https://vimeo.com/505567704 Moreover, later in 2021 he remixed a track from the Desert rockers Sons of Alpha Centauri which was included as a bonus 3-inch CD on the vinyl format of the recent album “Sky Island” by the Yawning Sons (project by members of the Yawning Man and Sons of Alpha Centauri). Billy Yfantis plans to experiment with new instruments and technologies for the recording of his 5th full album with a release schedule in mid-2022. Stay tuned for more information!

About Billy Yfantis
Vasileios (Billy) Yfantis holds 2 Master Degrees in Information Technology and is a Ph.D. candidate in the University of West Attica by conducting research on e-government. Billy has been working on music since the late 1990s by experimenting with tape mixing and sound design. Billy is playing digital keyboards, but prefers to express his artistic dream through the electronic sounds that come from unusual machines. He has experimented with the recording of vacuum cleaners, electric blenders and other strange sounds that have resulted in musical releases. Moreover, Billy has authored books on music, business and science while from times to times he speaks about the electronic governance at scientific conferences all over Europe.

Famous Quotes (What Others Have Said)
Krautrock legend Harald Grosskopf (Ash Ra Tempel, Klaus Schulze, Cosmic Jokers): “I always like electronic music made by younger musicians who consequently follow their personal instinct, rather than trying to copy what’s already been made in the past, in the spirit of: Whenever you meet Buddha kill him. Keep on tracking Billy!”

Tom McLoughlin (Director of the movie “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives”): “I really dug his music!! VERY cool stuff!!”

Phil Lanzon (Uriah Heep): “I like the track 'Waiting for the battle.' Great riff. I can see this as soundtracks to Psycho - punk movies and the like.”

Bobby Borg, (Music Business Author, Consultant, Professor): “This is fkn bad ass music that everyone needs to hear… imagine the coolest meditation music out there and the coolest sci-fi movie soundtrack rolled into one! Stream it and trip out today.”

Steve Whitfield (Producer and engineer of The Cure, The Mission UK): “This music is crying out to be used in films but at the same time it's great to just sit back listen and immerse yourself in them without any moving images and let your imagination run wild!”

Snowy Shaw (ex-King Diamond, Therion, Mercyful Fate): “I didn't know what to expect when I had this album sent to me by the composer Billy Yfantis. To be perfectly honest, 9 times out of 10 when people send me their new album it makes me feel a bit uneasy and awkward. Firstly because I don't listen an awful lot to contemporary music and secondly, even less to other metal & hard rock artists due to lack of interest and I don't wanna hurt their feelings. I don't mean that in any rude, disrespectful or arrogant way, but I'm into creating my own music, not so much into consuming music of my peers. However, this was something entirely different. I'm not even sure it's considered music, but it's the kind of atmospheric and meditative type of sounds that I've been listening a helluva lot over the past few years to try relax and cope with my stressful, turbulent life, constantly on the verge of being burnt out. That being said, I liked it and it made me calm, mindful and sleepy. Presumably the worst kind of reaction my metalhead peers would wanna hear about their new album but in this case it's probably the best sort of compliment one could get.”

Discography
1. Cinematic Works, Vol. I (Full album, 2021)
2. Noises from the Outer Space (Full album, 2021)
3. Entering the Solar System (Full album, 2020)
4. The Noisy Whispers Compilation (Full album, 2019)
5. The Mysterious Trip (Digital single, 2018)
6. Dust Not Found (Digital single 2017)
7. Crossing The Line (Digital single 2016)
8. The Electric Blender Session (Digital single, 2016)
9. The Missing Link (Digital single, 2015)

Check out music by Billy Yfantis here:
https://billyyfantis.bandcamp.com

Bibliography
1. Power Ballads And The Stories Behind (2021)
2. Is Prog Rock Really Progressive? (2020)
3. Hip Hop Goes Science: Volume I – Extended Version (2020)
4. Hip Hop Goes Science: Volume I (2019)
5. Metal Goes Science: The Academic Metal Bibliography (2017)
6. Disadvantaged Populations And Technology In Music (2017)
7. City Streets Of Europe (2017)
8. Punk Goes Science: The Academic Bibliography Of Punk (2015)
9. The Lost Lyrics (2013)
10. The Commercial Exploitation Of Color As A Consumer Stimulus (2013)

Find Books by Billy Yfantis here:
https://www.amazon.com/Vasileios-Yfantis/e/B00JNNL306/

Contact details:
E-mail:  Byfantis@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billy.yfantis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/billyyfantis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billyyfantis

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

MAGMA “BBC 1974 LONDON” 2 LP Red Vinyl Limited Edition Numbered Gatefold 180g Audiophile Now Available For Pre-Order!

Available November 26 For RSD BLACK FRIDAY

This high quality recording carried out on March 14th, 1974 in the London BBC studios, is here carefully remastered for a vinyl release. This double LP includes two Magmaian masterpieces in unique versions, performed by the group that was at the origin of their creation. If the completed versions played by the MAGMA of 75-76 are most familiar to us, those offered us here present a major interest on several levels: their structure first of all, which at that time was not yet finalized, and comprised sequences which were subsequently either re-arranged, thereafter in a different way, or deleted: THEUSZ HAMTAAHK whose pseudo-slowness of tempo is matched only by the contained violence that inhabits it, and KÖHNTARKÖSZ where the magic of the keyboards brings to this work an alternative just as bewitching as the one engendered at the Taverne de l'Olympia the following year, by the divine soaring of Didier LOCKWOOD’s violin.

Klaus BLASQUIZ
vocals, percussions

Claude OLMOS
guitar

Michel GRAILLIER
Fender piano, keyboards

Gérard BIKIALO
Fender piano

Jannick TOP
bass

Christian VANDER
drums, vocals

To pre-order: https://www.seventhrecords.com/en/magma-19/bbc-1974-london-2-lp-red-vinyl-1307.html

For more information:
Magma's official website: www.magmamusic.org
Seventh Records: www.seventhrecords.com

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

Multi-instrumentalist and Composer Rachel Flowers to Release Third Solo Album “Bigger on the Inside” October 1, 2021

California multi-instrumentalist and composer Rachel Flowers will be releasing her eagerly awaited new solo album on October 1, 2021. Rachel demonstrates with her latest effort that she truly is, as the title suggests, “Bigger on the Inside.” As a composer, Rachel seamlessly weaves together elements of progressive rock, jazz, classical, and pop music with cinematic orchestrations, soaring melodies, and virtuosic playing. Top this off with Rachel's 3 1/2 octave vocal range and her uncanny ability to explore universal themes ranging from love, joy, and hope to depression, bullying, and fear of an uncertain future with sensitivity and optimism, and you have an album that is destined to stand the test of time.

Says Rachel, “I was inspired by composers and bands like Ambrosia, Frank Zappa, and Keith Emerson while writing the songs on ‘Bigger on the Inside.’ Some songs were inspired by or even heard in dreams. Others were improvised during the recording process. Sometimes just hearing a new piano sound can lead to inspiration. Some of my lyrics just come from my imagination and others come from real experience.”

Rachel Flowers is recognized worldwide as a multi-instrumentalist and composer whose music spans multiple genres.

She first gained recognition for her talent as a young child and has been admired and mentored by those at the top of their field including Greg Lake, Keith Emerson, Dweezil Zappa, Conductor Terje Mikkelson, and a series of jazz greats, most notably Herbie Hancock. As a teenager she won numerous awards as a pianist and flutist, and has matured to perform and record on the global stage.

The award winning documentary “Hearing Is Believing” was produced about her unusual life and talents.

Among Rachel’s recording credits are her solo albums “Listen” (2016) and “Going Somewhere” (2018), “Music From the Soundtrack: Hearing is Believing” (2017), collaborations with Michael Sadler of Saga and fusion band Stratospheerius, and appearances on the albums of Telergy and Marcelo Paganini. Rachel is prominently featured on “Keith Emerson - Beyond the Stars,” and the much awaited CD and DVD set, “Fanfare For The Uncommon Man: The Official Keith Emerson Tribute Concert.”

Rachel continues to defy expectations, refusing to be pigeonholed by genre or by instrument. Her classical piano training started when she was only 4 years old. At 9 she discovered jazz and was immediately transfixed by the music of John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Ella Fitzgerald. As varied as her musical background had already been, hearing Emerson, Lake & Palmer proved to be a turning point. Rachel was captivated by keyboardist Keith Emerson's innovative integration of classical and jazz elements in a rock setting, and he became a musical role model.

While her favorite instruments continue to be piano and organ, she is also classically trained on the flute and plays the guitar, bass, saxophone, and Chapman Stick.

Says Rachel, “I’ve always wanted to create music that had those big sounds that I love. I was excited to incorporate more of the organ on this album, using my Nord C2D and Electro 4D as well as pipe organ sound libraries to get that iconic tone I was looking for. There is also a lot of electric guitar on this album. I was inspired by Steve Vai, John Mayer, Steven Wilson, and of course Adrian Belew, who was a direct inspiration for the opening track.”

In support of Rachel’s new album release she will be performing at ProgStock on October 1 - 3, 2021 (https://www.progstock.com/2021/). On November 6, 2021 Rachel opens for Asia featuring John Payne at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway, New Jersey, and she is slated to perform at Synthplex, the “All Things Synthesizer” electronic music festival & gear expo, on October 27 - 30, 2022 at the Los Angeles Burbank Airport Convention Center.

Rachel’s future plans include completion of a jazz album, and a jazz/hip-hop fusion album, both started during the pandemic. There are no release dates as yet. Plans to record with a live orchestra are currently in discussion.

In closing Rachel has this to impart to her listeners, “The message I would like my listeners to come away with is that there will be darkness, but you can fly, you can love, you can be loved, and the darkness is only temporary.”

To Purchase:
Bandcamp https://rachelflowers.bandcamp.com/album/bigger-on-the-inside
Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/album/bigger-on-the-inside/1584874386
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09FPJ2P86

For more information:
Website http://rachelflowersmusic.com
SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/rachelflowers-1
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/RachelFlowersMusic
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RachelFlowersMusic
Twitter https://twitter.com/RFlowersMusic
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rachelflowersmusic
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/4grHJyvpWRMC9cSDzohYaf

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

MAGMA “ESKÄHL 2020 Bordeaux - Toulouse – Perpignan” 2CD Available August 27, 2021!

Music legends Magma will be releasing a new live album “ESKÄHL 2020 Bordeaux - Toulouse – Perpignan” on August 27, 2021!

February 29, 2020, like wild animals, we rushed to the Penmarc'h hall, the first concert of our tour.

Then came Nantes, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Perpignan and Saint-Étienne. Each evening, the group, sharp as a blade, asked only to “do battle”!

At Besançon, our momentum was broken by a setback, out of tempo.

ESKAHL is a testimony of these concerts, of this new MAGMA with a recomposed line-up, more alive than ever!

Magma is there, will always be there.
And nothing! No, nothing will stop us!

Christian Vander, December 2, 2020.

With the approval of Kömmandeuhr ZÏ.

To pre-order: https://www.seventhrecords.com/magma-19/eskahl-2020-bordeaux-toulouse-perpignan-1306.html

For more information:
Magma's official website: www.magmamusic.org
Seventh Records: www.seventhrecords.com

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

Multinational Rock Fusion Band City Weezle To Release New Album “No.2”

City Weezle is a rock fusion band that fuses elements of different styles and influences, but marks its distinctly unique brand of fusion with a punky swing rock, groove backbone at its core. The band’s self proclaimed influences are Faith No More, Mr. Bungle, Primus, King Crimson, The Melvins, Frank Zappa...

“No.2” is City Weezle’s latest offering after a long Hiatus taken due to disbanding in 2010. It’s the fruit of years of work! The album was written and recorded in various beautiful and precarious places from the backwaters of Ireland to the metropoles of France and Japan over a 4 year period.

City Weezle was founded in Paris back in 2005 by potato lovin’ Irishman Simon Fleury. After stringing together two demos, “City Weezle” (in 2006) and “The Leprechaun” (in 2008), City Weezle became a prominent member of the European underground fusion scene. They toured Europe several times sharing the stage with acts such as Watcha, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum. They have also become good friends and collaborated with great underground acts such as Igorrr (who produced both the band’s LP’s), Vladimir Bozar, Pryapisme and Clurichaun. After the release of their first full length LP drummer Ai Uchida had to return to Japan.

Due to not being able to find anyone to replace him, City Weezle was put on hiatus indefinitely but released “Lysergik Tea Party” in 2012 to let people know the band would be back. In 2013 and the following years, Simon would meet pianist and composer CSL Parker, who mentored him in experimental free form improvisation. Under his advice, Simon would reform the band, reconnecting with drummer Ai Uchida and bassist Kengo Mochizuki. Ai flew from Japan to write and record the drums over a two week period In a little cottage in Ireland.

Over the following years, the instrumentation and vocals would be written and recorded in “various beautiful and precarious places” throughout Ireland, France and Japan, culminating in their latest effort and second LP entitled “No. 2”

The recordings include many Guests and the band’s musical palette diversifies on this album incorporating Piano, Organ, Harpsichord, String arrangements, etc. “No. 2” is a less chaotic sounding album stepping away from the Primus and Bungle influenced sound of Taboo opening up some new directions for the band who will strive to keep things original, fun and interesting for the listener to enjoy. The band is now promoting “No. 2” preparing for a post Covid return to the Stage.

Both City Weezle’s albums “Taboo” and “No.2” were co-produced with legendary breakcore artist “Igorrr.”

The Lineup  
Simon Fleury (IRL) aka “The Vocal Viking”: Vocals, Guitars, Banjo’s, baby screams
Kengo Moichizuki (JAP) aka “Bass Samurai”: Bass
Ai Uchida (JAP) aka “Drum Ninja”: Drums
Axel Steinbiss(DE) aka “Wunderkind”: Keyboards, Piano  
Pierre Schmidt(FR): Guitar

Here’s what the press has said about City Weezle:

“City Weezle has elements of Beefheart and Frank Zappa that make a welcome relief to singer-songwriter-dom and Guitar-band isms.” - Hot Press Magazine (Ireland)

“The Prog songs of this incredible band jump seamlessly through metal funk and an array of styles all while making it sound very natural.” - Longueur d’ondes (France)

“City Weezle plays a metal, fusion, psychobilly twisted mix that is sure to be a favorite of avid Twisted Hillbilly Readers.” - Twisted Hillbilly Magazine (USA)

“There are some Crimson notions in there and certainly the influence of Frank Zappa is present. There's this gigantic funky sound that seems to be present just about everywhere on this album.” - Dutch Prog Rock Page (Netherlands)

“They describe their sound as swinging, grooving rock with a sharp punky edge. All I know is with these 12 songs, the outcasts and forward thinkers will go bonkers over City Weezle. Brilliant!” - Eternal Terror (Norway)

“City Weezle have blended their influences into a surprisingly cohesive sound. The musicianship is excellent, and the songs are well crafted” - Progressive World (USA)

“The band is all over the musical map delving into hard rock, metal, funk, jazz, prog, opera, fusion and probably a few more genres that I missed. There is no denying the band displays exemplary musicianship and there is something about their quirky nature that is charming.” - Sea of Tranquility (USA)

“The pieces proposed are very enjoyable in addition to being well played and having a well-characterized choice of sounds, there is a certain care in the arrangements: odd tempos, well-executed cuts and a voice that seems to come directly from a madhouse criminal.” - Hard sounds.it (Italy)

Support the band by buying some of our cool merch here:
https://cityweezle.bigcartel.com/

Hear all our music and read all our lyrics for free here:
https://cityweezle.bandcamp.com/

Like and Follow us on:
https://www.facebook.com/cityweezle
https://www.instagram.com/
https://twitter.com/cityweezle
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4ii6ZSUfxuPp8CtKrtHruo
https://www.tiktok.com/@cityweezle

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

CIRCUS MIND Gets Funky and Showcase Their Rock and Jazz Grooves on the New Album JOY MACHINE

New York, NY – CIRCUS MIND is a New York-based rock outfit and the brainchild of ringleader Mark Rechler. The band is entering their twentieth year and are soon to release their third album JOY MACHINE, a fresh explosion of sounds and flavors of the ’70s rock era with a modern twist. Like a three-ring circus, the band can slide seamlessly between rock, funk, and swampy N’awlins grooves, all while referencing some of the best bands of that era with infectious hooks that get stuck in your ear hole. JOY MACHINE releases May 21, 2021, and also features Nels Cline, Marc Ribot, Ivan Neville, Walter Wolfman Washington, Scott Metzger, and more.

The first JOY MACHINE single “Are You Ready?” features guest guitar phenom Brandon “Taz” Niederauer and had an official music video release. Both the song and video are a funky rock throwback that has roots in P-Funk, Sly Stone, and other ’70s rock and soul vibes, all flavors that CIRCUS MIND wears on its sleeve as a badge of honor, from the writing to the production. The title track “Joy Machine” features Scott Metzger (JRAD) and releases as a single on May 7 with a special music video premiere. CIRCUS MIND will then gather together in New Orleans with some amazing NoLa musicians including Big Sam to celebrate the JOY MACHINE album release on May 21 with a raucous party and live performance!

The production of JOY MACHINE began in August of 2019, but it was the Covid-19 pandemic that really set the stage for the record. While some bands took to the internet airwaves to stream performances, Rechler locked down in the studio. “Suddenly we had a ton of time on our hands and we knew we wanted to come out of this with a full album,” says Mark. “I was a man possessed and started writing like a madman!” The band started working remotely but quickly masked up and got down to business. “In a weird way, the pandemic also opened doors for us to find such amazing guests who were not out on tour and were looking to keep busy.”

The previous CIRCUS MIND release Silver Flower was voted Best Indie Album of 2006 by Newsday and put a modern take on influences such as Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople while mixing in NoLa vibe influences like Dr. John, The Meters, and The Neville Brothers. The last CIRCUS MIND single “Jazzfest Time” was released one year ago as an ode to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and featured Ivan Neville and Big Sam. CIRCUS MIND is quite versatile and has opened for national acts (Toots & The Maytals, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators) and had many notable guests sit in on their recordings and live performances (Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band, Cyril Neville).

CIRCUS MIND’s members are diverse in their influences as well as their playing. Lead vocalist, songwriter, keyboardist, and bandleader Mark Rechler plays in multiple bands (such as Falling Water), and has played, toured, and recorded with members of The Meters, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators, Soulive, The Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Ivan Neville, and more. Spending five years in New Orleans studying music and architecture helped influence his style and direction, and he always keeps his focus on the hook to keep his listeners wanting more and humming his tunes all day.

Bassist Chris Crosby has a serious case of spider-fingers and can solo as beautifully as any guitarist. A funkster from a family of highly respected musicians, Chris has also studied with Oteil Burbridge of The Allman Brothers Band and Dead & Company. Currently, he has also been busy playing in his brother’s Jason Crosby Band and with New York rock quartet Feverseed. Guitarist David Berg is rooted in jazz, reggae, and bluegrass. He has toured with Dark Star Orchestra and has played multiple shows with Garth Hudson (The Band). Dave’s fluid rock style keeps CIRCUS MIND in a constant snake-like flow.

Drummer Dan Roth has been banging on things since he was a tyke, and he can’t seem to stop. He’s addicted to crosswords, motor coordination, and avocados. With over 30 album credits to his name, percussionist Steve Finkelstein has worked with pop icons from Ray Charles and Mariah Carey as well as jam band giants including members of the Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band, and Tower of Power. Steve is also an original member and current member of the Funk Filharmonik.

To purchase or stream the new CIRCUS MIND album JOY MACHINE please visit: https://smarturl.it/CircusMindJoyMachine

To purchase or stream the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: https://smarturl.it/CMAreYouReady

To watch the official music video for the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: 

For more information about the band and the New Orleans Release Party on May 21 please visit: www.circusmindband.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

CIRCUS MIND Gets Funky and Showcase Their Rock and Jazz Grooves on the New Album JOY MACHINE

New York, NY – CIRCUS MIND is a New York-based rock outfit and the brainchild of ringleader Mark Rechler. The band is entering their twentieth year and are soon to release their third album JOY MACHINE, a fresh explosion of sounds and flavors of the ’70s rock era with a modern twist. Like a three-ring circus, the band can slide seamlessly between rock, funk, and swampy N’awlins grooves, all while referencing some of the best bands of that era with infectious hooks that get stuck in your ear hole. JOY MACHINE releases May 21, 2021, and also features Nels Cline, Marc Ribot, Ivan Neville, Walter Wolfman Washington, Scott Metzger, and more.

The first JOY MACHINE single “Are You Ready?” features guest guitar phenom Brandon “Taz” Niederauer and had an official music video release. Both the song and video are a funky rock throwback that has roots in P-Funk, Sly Stone, and other ’70s rock and soul vibes, all flavors that CIRCUS MIND wears on its sleeve as a badge of honor, from the writing to the production. The title track “Joy Machine” features Scott Metzger (JRAD) and releases as a single on May 7 with a special music video premiere. CIRCUS MIND will then gather together in New Orleans with some amazing NoLa musicians including Big Sam to celebrate the JOY MACHINE album release on May 21 with a raucous party and live performance!

The production of JOY MACHINE began in August of 2019, but it was the Covid-19 pandemic that really set the stage for the record. While some bands took to the internet airwaves to stream performances, Rechler locked down in the studio. “Suddenly we had a ton of time on our hands and we knew we wanted to come out of this with a full album,” says Mark. “I was a man possessed and started writing like a madman!” The band started working remotely but quickly masked up and got down to business. “In a weird way, the pandemic also opened doors for us to find such amazing guests who were not out on tour and were looking to keep busy.”

The previous CIRCUS MIND release Silver Flower was voted Best Indie Album of 2006 by Newsday and put a modern take on influences such as Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople while mixing in NoLa vibe influences like Dr. John, The Meters, and The Neville Brothers. The last CIRCUS MIND single “Jazzfest Time” was released one year ago as an ode to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and featured Ivan Neville and Big Sam. CIRCUS MIND is quite versatile and has opened for national acts (Toots & The Maytals, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators) and had many notable guests sit in on their recordings and live performances (Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band, Cyril Neville).

CIRCUS MIND’s members are diverse in their influences as well as their playing. Lead vocalist, songwriter, keyboardist, and bandleader Mark Rechler plays in multiple bands (such as Falling Water), and has played, toured, and recorded with members of The Meters, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators, Soulive, The Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Ivan Neville, and more. Spending five years in New Orleans studying music and architecture helped influence his style and direction, and he always keeps his focus on the hook to keep his listeners wanting more and humming his tunes all day.

Bassist Chris Crosby has a serious case of spider-fingers and can solo as beautifully as any guitarist. A funkster from a family of highly respected musicians, Chris has also studied with Oteil Burbridge of The Allman Brothers Band and Dead & Company. Currently, he has also been busy playing in his brother’s Jason Crosby Band and with New York rock quartet Feverseed. Guitarist David Berg is rooted in jazz, reggae, and bluegrass. He has toured with Dark Star Orchestra and has played multiple shows with Garth Hudson (The Band). Dave’s fluid rock style keeps CIRCUS MIND in a constant snake-like flow.

Drummer Dan Roth has been banging on things since he was a tyke, and he can’t seem to stop. He’s addicted to crosswords, motor coordination, and avocados. With over 30 album credits to his name, percussionist Steve Finkelstein has worked with pop icons from Ray Charles and Mariah Carey as well as jam band giants including members of the Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band, and Tower of Power. Steve is also an original member and current member of the Funk Filharmonik.

To purchase or stream the new CIRCUS MIND album JOY MACHINE please visit: https://smarturl.it/CircusMindJoyMachine

To purchase or stream the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: https://smarturl.it/CMAreYouReady

To watch the official music video for the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: 

For more information about the band and the New Orleans Release Party on May 21 please visit: www.circusmindband.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

Various Artists Review: Morning Café

Release Date: May 21, 2021

Label: Domo Records

Website

 

If you take a look at the cover of Domo Records' upcoming release Morning Café, one may say it “Looks Like Heaven.” And it does if you enjoy a nice latte and some kickback music to chill and start your day. That is the title of one of many tracks to take a deep dive into. In actuality this is music for any time, it is all very flexible and worthy of a listen to enliven your spirit.

If variety is truly the spice of life then this compilation defines that very meaning of spice and diversity on one recording. If you are a listener that likes the expectation of something new and different coming with each track then you will love this! Also, if you happen to enjoy being totally immersed in the sounds, this is the kind of varietal selection that will get you on that course rather quickly.

The previously mentioned track “Looks Like Heaven” inspired me. There can be heaven right here on earth. We don’t have to wait until we die to experience that.  

Luis Villegas starts off your first sip with “Noches Guitanas.” The worldly beats and Latino guitar expressions are colorful and vibrant, full of the life that another country or culture can bring to a listener. I thought it was an excellent way to start things off. Personally, I love instrumental music, particularly on guitar with a Latin spark to get your inner spirit aroused and the blood pumping into your veins for a shot of energy. Later into this compilation, you get much of the same with Benedetti & Svoboda on their tasteful flight “Moresca.”

Prior to all of that entertainment, there is so much variety and styles that you are bound to find some things you like. I found I enjoyed every track with varying degrees of interest. I appreciated each one as standalone work of art, as one should on such an impressive gathering of talent on one recording. The idea here is to take an adventure into the label to see all the work by each artist.

Dave Eggar’s “Follow Me To The Sun” is about as different as things can get on one compilation, with a funky beat and a little bit of new-age rap if you will. The bass is particularly good on the track. “Low Pass Dub” by Peas is quite unusual as well, I liked it quite a bit. It is original with a great mixture of sounds and a steady irresistible beat. It is hard to classify or put into a box, which makes it that much more engaging from where I sit. Lots of funky bass lines again lead the way into several transitions to enlighten the soul.

Dino Malito continues your travels with “Tienshan.” This is guitar-based with a bottom layer of steady playing with some beautiful lines on top of it to draw you in. It is mesmerizing, like a walk along the shoreline at around sunset and the feeling of peace and absolute serenity the sound of the waves can give you. This is a form of beauty set to music that will bring lovely visions of solace to your mind with very little effort. You can relax and let the music lead you into the story in your mind’s eye. The sound of the guitar has a surf music tone to it so that is why my vision came to life while listening.

Morning Café is eleven tracks of instrumental bliss for the listeners with a diverse palette ready to get a taste of everything on the menu. And of course, the latte is pertinent to get you in the right frame of mind to discover all the enjoyment and the fragrances and tastes it has to offer. So, are you ready to place your order while you enjoy your morning or evening cup of instrumental bliss?

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net
March 30, 2021 

Tracks:

01. Luis Villegas - Noches Guitanas
02. Dave Eggar - Earth's Paradise
03. Peas - Looks Like Heaven
04. Luna - Alone In Kyoto
05. Dave Eggar - Follow Me To The Sun
06. Tao Of Sound - The Field
07. Benedetti & Svoboda – Moresca
08. Luna - Back To You
09. Peas - Low Pass Dub
10. Dino Malito – Tienshan
11. Steve Anderson - Beau Soir, L. 6

Jazz-Fusion Guitarist Gerald Gradwohl To Release 6th Album “Episode 6” April 16 2020

Working at the highest international level of quality has always been a fundamental characteristic of the Gerald Gradwohl Group. He collaborated with Bob Berg, Gary Willis, Kirk Covington, Adam Nitti amongst others. Rooted in the quartet’s own unique approach to instrumental fusion, their sixth album “Episode 6” is a celebration of improvisation set within an exciting and colorful, sonic landscape of imposing compositions. As we have come to know from guitarist and composer Gerald Gradwohl, he continues to work with musicians who, aside from their extraordinary instrumental skills, also bring maturity and creative drive into both concert and recording situations.

“Episode 6” is no exception. Gradwohl’s sophisticated and stylistically diverse instrumental compositions conceptualize exciting musical interactions, and his approach not only continues to keep live recordings fresh and challenging but also fosters the intuition and spontaneity of the musicians, all consolidating the band’s highly dynamic sound. Gerald Gradwohl (g), Thomas Kugi (sax), Jojo Lackner (b) und Harald Tanschek (dr) have once again proved themselves to be an exceptional ensemble, unifying dynamic and intimate musicality with artistic intuition and emotional depth.  

Says Gerald, “Goal of the album was to capture the live sound of this steadily gigging band. We play live with this line up since years which of course influenced my writing a lot. The sound of the live band was the main inspiration, but I also tried to capture the existing vibes during the lockdown. My plan was to work on an album in 2021, but as the pandemic changed all plans and schedules, I preponed this project and finished the song ideas I already had during April/May…We recorded 2 days live as a quartet in one room and added a few overdubs later, so the result is as it would sound live. Recording live is one of my main concepts since years as all the records I made are some kind of snapshots. Moreover, I don’t like to make everything perfect - I love the idea that the listener can feel the energy and spirit of playing together as it would be onstage.”

When looking for terms and names to describe the band, the attempt will leave you with a wide spectrum between jazz and fusion music focusing on grooving funk with a strong “Rock ‘N’ Roll Attitude” mixed with Jazz harmony to fierce discharging jazz rock storms. There is no arbitrariness in this wide array of musical styles and influences, as the band selected team players from the international jazz/fusion scene – renders the stringent compositions in a committed and playfully individual manner, putting its high-quality inventive signature to the music and derives its uniqueness and independence from a sure, pro-active and listening interaction of experienced musician personalities. Gradwohl can jump into and out of the stylistic changes like a true chameleon. He has ventured further into exploratory fusion on this effort than on any of his previous efforts.  Having the support and backing of the great rhythm section has really made this venture for Gradwohl into tribal funk fusion a viable effort of world class caliber. GG pulls all the stops of his musical skills. “As much composition as necessary and as much improvisation as possible” seems to be the dogma and the point of view of fusion-music of today for this worldwide known and acknowledged composer and performer, living in Wr. Neustadt, Austria. The great variety in composition and playing will not only fascinate Jazz and Fusion lovers - watch out for exciting live gigs!  

The album “ABQ” (2003) feat. Bob Berg, Gary Willis and Kirk Covington was a big step in Gerald’s international career. Several albums and live tours have been the result of his continuous work. 2007 “Tritone Barrier” is released. On this album Scott Henderson contributes a guest solo on the track “Jeff's Back.” This album is followed by “Sally Beth Roe” in 2009 which he recorded with his Trio - this is a real guitar trio record! In 2013 Gerald released “Big Land” feat. Tribal Tech drummer Kirk Covington on drums. “RAW” (2016) is a critically acclaimed masterpiece of Jazz and Rock music and is the first release with his current band. The band is touring regularly and releases the new album “Episode 6” in April 2021!

Says Gerald, “I hope we can present the album live as soon as possible. My main goal is to bring the Quartet to as many festivals as possible, as we really ‘burn’ onstage. My next project is already in the works - I want to prove that it is possible to do a ‘remote’ recording by sending files back and forth and still creating a live atmosphere almost as we would play together in a room. I already did a few tunes with Kirk Covington and Adam Nitti and hope that I can finish this in 2021!”

Gerald Gradwohl Group:
Gerald Gradwohl - guitar
Thomas Kugi - sax
Jojo Lackner - bass
Harald Tanschek  - drums

Here’s what the press has said about Gerald Gradwohl:

“Gerald Gradwohl is a serious, progressive jazz guitarist who spans a range of styles and influences within multiple jazzish genres from silky smooth jazz to rip-roaring fusion, always with intensive guitar work.” -  EER Music

“A guitarist of extraordinary depth and sensitivity. Gradwohl plays with the same kind of abandon as Scott Henderson, and is able to portray the same gracefulness as Frank Gambale, showing a solid command for his jazz meets rock guitar stylings.” - Jazz.com

“If you want your jazz rock fusion hard hitting and rough, yet well balanced and without the blinding restlessness of shredding, look no further.” - FUSENET

“A highly skilled soloist, Gradwohl’s style combines the hip lines of a jazz player, with the technical proclivities of a shredder.” - The Guitar Channel

Gerald Gradwohl Group “Episode 6” Released on April 6, 2021 Label: gtone211  

To purchase: http://brokensilence.de/lnk/episode6/

For more information:
www.gradwohl.at
www.facebook.com/geraldgradwohlofficial
www.instagram.com/geraldgradwohl
www.twitter.com/gtone2700
www.youtube.com/geraldgradwohlmusic

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

Jazz-Fusion Guitarist Gerald Gradwohl To Release 6th Album “Episode 6” April 16 2020

Working at the highest international level of quality has always been a fundamental characteristic of the Gerald Gradwohl Group. He collaborated with Bob Berg, Gary Willis, Kirk Covington, Adam Nitti amongst others. Rooted in the quartet’s own unique approach to instrumental fusion, their sixth album “Episode 6” is a celebration of improvisation set within an exciting and colorful, sonic landscape of imposing compositions. As we have come to know from guitarist and composer Gerald Gradwohl, he continues to work with musicians who, aside from their extraordinary instrumental skills, also bring maturity and creative drive into both concert and recording situations.

“Episode 6” is no exception. Gradwohl’s sophisticated and stylistically diverse instrumental compositions conceptualize exciting musical interactions, and his approach not only continues to keep live recordings fresh and challenging but also fosters the intuition and spontaneity of the musicians, all consolidating the band’s highly dynamic sound. Gerald Gradwohl (g), Thomas Kugi (sax), Jojo Lackner (b) und Harald Tanschek (dr) have once again proved themselves to be an exceptional ensemble, unifying dynamic and intimate musicality with artistic intuition and emotional depth.  

Says Gerald, “Goal of the album was to capture the live sound of this steadily gigging band. We play live with this line up since years which of course influenced my writing a lot. The sound of the live band was the main inspiration, but I also tried to capture the existing vibes during the lockdown. My plan was to work on an album in 2021, but as the pandemic changed all plans and schedules, I preponed this project and finished the song ideas I already had during April/May…We recorded 2 days live as a quartet in one room and added a few overdubs later, so the result is as it would sound live. Recording live is one of my main concepts since years as all the records I made are some kind of snapshots. Moreover, I don’t like to make everything perfect - I love the idea that the listener can feel the energy and spirit of playing together as it would be onstage.”

When looking for terms and names to describe the band, the attempt will leave you with a wide spectrum between jazz and fusion music focusing on grooving funk with a strong “Rock ‘N’ Roll Attitude” mixed with Jazz harmony to fierce discharging jazz rock storms. There is no arbitrariness in this wide array of musical styles and influences, as the band selected team players from the international jazz/fusion scene – renders the stringent compositions in a committed and playfully individual manner, putting its high-quality inventive signature to the music and derives its uniqueness and independence from a sure, pro-active and listening interaction of experienced musician personalities. Gradwohl can jump into and out of the stylistic changes like a true chameleon. He has ventured further into exploratory fusion on this effort than on any of his previous efforts.  Having the support and backing of the great rhythm section has really made this venture for Gradwohl into tribal funk fusion a viable effort of world class caliber. GG pulls all the stops of his musical skills. “As much composition as necessary and as much improvisation as possible” seems to be the dogma and the point of view of fusion-music of today for this worldwide known and acknowledged composer and performer, living in Wr. Neustadt, Austria. The great variety in composition and playing will not only fascinate Jazz and Fusion lovers - watch out for exciting live gigs!  

The album “ABQ” (2003) feat. Bob Berg, Gary Willis and Kirk Covington was a big step in Gerald’s international career. Several albums and live tours have been the result of his continuous work. 2007 “Tritone Barrier” is released. On this album Scott Henderson contributes a guest solo on the track “Jeff's Back.” This album is followed by “Sally Beth Roe” in 2009 which he recorded with his Trio - this is a real guitar trio record! In 2013 Gerald released “Big Land” feat. Tribal Tech drummer Kirk Covington on drums. “RAW” (2016) is a critically acclaimed masterpiece of Jazz and Rock music and is the first release with his current band. The band is touring regularly and releases the new album “Episode 6” in April 2021!

Says Gerald, “I hope we can present the album live as soon as possible. My main goal is to bring the Quartet to as many festivals as possible, as we really ‘burn’ onstage. My next project is already in the works - I want to prove that it is possible to do a ‘remote’ recording by sending files back and forth and still creating a live atmosphere almost as we would play together in a room. I already did a few tunes with Kirk Covington and Adam Nitti and hope that I can finish this in 2021!”

Gerald Gradwohl Group:
Gerald Gradwohl - guitar
Thomas Kugi - sax
Jojo Lackner - bass
Harald Tanschek  - drums

Here’s what the press has said about Gerald Gradwohl:

“Gerald Gradwohl is a serious, progressive jazz guitarist who spans a range of styles and influences within multiple jazzish genres from silky smooth jazz to rip-roaring fusion, always with intensive guitar work.” -  EER Music

“A guitarist of extraordinary depth and sensitivity. Gradwohl plays with the same kind of abandon as Scott Henderson, and is able to portray the same gracefulness as Frank Gambale, showing a solid command for his jazz meets rock guitar stylings.” - Jazz.com

“If you want your jazz rock fusion hard hitting and rough, yet well balanced and without the blinding restlessness of shredding, look no further.” - FUSENET

“A highly skilled soloist, Gradwohl’s style combines the hip lines of a jazz player, with the technical proclivities of a shredder.” - The Guitar Channel

Gerald Gradwohl Group “Episode 6” Released on April 6, 2021 Label: gtone211  

To purchase: http://brokensilence.de/lnk/episode6/

For more information:
www.gradwohl.at
www.facebook.com/geraldgradwohlofficial
www.instagram.com/geraldgradwohl
www.twitter.com/gtone2700
www.youtube.com/geraldgradwohlmusic

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

CIRCUS MIND Showcase Their ’70s Rock, Funk, and Jazz Grooves on the New Single “ARE YOU READY?” From Their Upcoming Album JOY MACHINE

New York, NY – CIRCUS MIND is a New York-based rock outfit and the brainchild of ringleader Mark Rechler. The band is entering their twentieth year and are soon to release their third album JOY MACHINE, a delightful mashup of the retro sounds of ’70s rock and funk with N’awlins swamp rock mixed with late-Beatles pop. The first JOY MACHINE single “ARE YOU READY?” features guest guitar phenom Brandon “Taz” Niederauer and will release online February 26 ahead of an official video release and Fat Friday Virtual Event on March 5, 2021. “ARE YOU READY?” is a funky rock throwback that has roots in P-Funk, Sly Stone, and other ’70s rock and soul vibes, all flavors that CIRCUS MIND wears on its sleeve as a badge of honor, from the writing to the production. The JOY MACHINE album will release on May 21, 2021, and also features Walter Wolfman Washington, Scott Metzger, Ivan Neville, Big Sam, Marc Ribot, and more special guests.

CIRCUS MIND has many faces, and the band is able to daringly swing from jazzy grooves to reggae roots then shoot out of a canon into rock without missing a beat. Their last release “Silver Flower” was voted Best Indie Album of 2006 by Newsday and put a modern take on influences such as Traffic, Steely Dan, Little Feat, and Mott the Hoople while mixing in NoLa vibe influences like Dr. John, The Meters and The Neville Brothers. The last CIRCUS MIND single “Jazzfest Time” was released one year ago as an ode to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. CIRCUS MIND is quite versatile and has opened for national acts (Toots & The Maytals, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators) and had many notable guests sit in on their recordings and live performances (Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band, Cyril Neville).

CIRCUS MIND’s members are diverse in their influences as well as their playing. Lead vocalist, songwriter, keyboardist, and bandleader Mark Rechler plays in multiple bands (such as Falling Water), and has played, toured, and recorded with members of The Meters, The Neville Brothers, The Radiators, Soulive, The Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Ivan Neville, and more. Spending five years in New Orleans studying music and architecture helped influence his style and direction, and he always keeps his focus on the hook to keep his listeners salivating and wanting more.

Bassist Chris Crosby has a serious case of spider-fingers and can solo as beautifully as any guitarist. A funkster from a family of highly respected musicians, Chris has also studied with Oteil Burbridge of The Allman Brothers Band and The Dead. Currently, he has also been busy playing in his brother’s Jason Crosby Band and New York rock quartet Feverseed. Guitarist David Berg is rooted in jazz, reggae, and bluegrass. He has toured with Dark Star Orchestra and has played multiple shows with Garth Hudson (The Band). Dave’s fluid rock style keeps CIRCUS MIND in a constant snake-like flow.

Drummer Dan Roth has been banging on things since he was a tyke, and he can’t seem to stop. He’s addicted to crosswords, motor coordination, and avocados. With over 30 album credits to his name, percussionist Steve Finkelstein has worked with pop icons from Ray Charles and Mariah Carey as well as jam band giants including members of the Dead, Allman’s, and Neville’s, and Tower of Power. Steve is also an original member and current member of the Funk Filharmonik.

The CIRCUS MIND single “ARE YOU READY?” will release online February 26, ahead of an official video release and Fat Friday Virtual Event on March 5, and the JOY MACHINE album release on May 21, 2021.

To purchase or stream the new single “ARE YOU READY?” please visit: https://smarturl.it/CMAreYouReady

For more information including tour dates or booking inquiries please visit: https://www.facebook.com/CircusMindMusic/

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

Resurrection! Legendary Percussionist Airto Moreira & the Preservation Hall Jazz Band

Two powerful forces in the world of jazz come together in Resurrection! Airto Moreira and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Airto Moreira is a world-renowned jazz drummer and percussionist from Brazil, who exhibited great talent at a young age.

In his twenties he traveled to the U.S.A. in pursuit of Flora Purim, the woman with whom he had fallen in love, who had left Brazil to sing Bossa Nova with saxophonist Stan Getz. Over the years, Airto became a major musical figure by bringing his Brazilian percussion to American jazz, playing with Miles Davis, Chick Corea, and numerous other artists, as well as recording his own records.

Fifty years after coming to the U.S., dealing with a number of personal challenges, Airto was depressed.

Preservation Hall was created in 1961 in the French Quarter of New Orleans as a venue where traditional New Orleans jazz musicians, who were struggling to keep their music alive, could play. Over the years, Preservation Hall became a revered part of New Orleans culture, where a group of venerable talented New Orleans musicians were able to continue to perform.

In addition, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band (PHJB), founded by tuba player, Allan Jaffe, began touring widely and attained a high level of recognition. The PHJB was awarded the National Medal of Arts, with this citation: "With enormous talent and pride, this ageless ensemble has toured the world displaying the unbreakable spirit of New Orleans and sharing the joy of New Orleans jazz with us all."

Filmmaker and jazz enthusiast, Dale Djerassi attended four nights of performances by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band at SF Jazz Center, the premiere venue for jazz in San Francisco. Each night, a different musical guest would perform with the band.

On the last night, Dale approached Ben Jaffe, creative director, and tuba and bass player in the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, to ask if they had ever considered playing with Airto Moreira as their guest. Ben was excited by the idea and invited Airto, as well as his daughter, singer Diana Purim Moreira, and her husband, Krishna Booker to come to New Orleans.

On Mardi Gras morning they met the Preservation Hall Jazz Band at Congo Square in the middle of Armstrong Park in old New Orleans and they immediately began to play music and found a great groove together. The next night, they performed three shows together in Preservation Hall before enthusiastic cheering audiences.

As a result of this encounter, Airto felt rejuvenated and regained his passion for playing music, and The Preservation Hall Jazz Band experienced the joy of combining their musical tradition with the Brazilian musical traditions of Airto.

This is music as medicine for the soul!

(L to R) Airto Moreira, Charlie Gabriel, Ben Jaffe

Watch the video: 

Airto’s official website: http://www.airto.com/
Preservation Hall Jazz Band (PHJB) official website: https://www.preservationhalljazzband.com/

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