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Showing posts with label New Album. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Album. Show all posts

9/14/2026

Guitar Virtuoso Harvey Valdes to Release New Improvisational Pedal Steel Album Lumora September 18

Harvey Valdes - Lumora Cover

Guitar virtuoso Harvey Valdes is set to release his new album Lumora on September 18, 2026 on 7D Media. Lumora is an intimate solo pedal steel guitar recording that explores atmosphere, melody, and improvisation through the unique voice of the instrument. Stripped of accompaniment, the album invites listeners into a spacious sonic landscape where tone, resonance, and silence become as important as the notes themselves.

Although the pedal steel is often associated with country music, this recording presents the instrument in a different light. Drawing from ambient music, classical influences, and contemporary improvisation, the album reflects my ongoing search for a personal musical language on the pedal steel. Rather than relying on the instrument's traditional vocabulary, Valdes explores it as an expressive, orchestral voice capable of remarkable nuance, color, and emotional depth.

Every piece was created as a complete improvisation, without predetermined structures or written compositions. Valdes approached each performance with openness, allowing melody, harmony, texture, and form to emerge naturally in the moment. The result is music that often unfolds with the coherence and emotional arc of carefully composed works while retaining the immediacy and spontaneity of improvisation. Rather than emphasizing virtuosity, the focus is on creating mood, space, and emotional connection, inviting listeners to slow down and discover the subtle details that emerge over time.

The album was recorded over the course of a single day, capturing a moment when exploration gave way to acceptance. Says Valdes, “After living with the challenges and endless possibilities of the pedal steel, I felt a need to let go of analysis and simply play. The recording became less about making an album and more about embracing the instrument as it is, allowing each improvisation to unfold naturally. In many ways, this project documents a personal turning point - one that opened the door to a more authentic musical voice.”

The title Lumora suggests light, warmth, and quiet illumination - qualities that reflect the emotional character of the music. Rather than telling a specific story, the album creates a space that is reflective, expansive, and open to personal interpretation.

Harvey Valdes Photo

As a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, Valdes’ career has taken him through a wide range of musical settings—from Broadway orchestras to world music, the music of Bach, and collaborative projects. This project is a deeply personal artistic statement, placing the pedal steel guitar at the center while exploring the instrument's expressive possibilities as a solo voice.

Says Valdes, “My hope is that Lumora invites listeners into this musical language - not as something to be explained, but as a space to inhabit, where simplicity, texture, and spontaneity reveal their own quiet beauty.”

Track list:
1. Mistral
2. Fray
3. Liena
4. Hallow
5. Slen
6. Gleam
7. Drisk
8. Exael

Personnel:
Harvey Valdes - Pedal Steel
Produced, mix, artwork, compositions: Harvey Valdes
Mastered: Chuck Johnson

To pre-order: https://harveyvaldes.bandcamp.com/album/lumora

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

9/04/2026

ACCLAIMED COMPOSER CHRISTOPHER GORDON'S POWERFUL NEW INTERPRETATION OF SHAKESPEARE'S MACBETH, PERFORMED BY AN EXCEPTIONAL CAST OF INTERNATIONAL GUESTS, ORCHESTRA AND CHOIR – SET FOR RELEASE ON MADFISH ON 30th OCTOBER

Christopher Gordon Logo
Christopher Gordon Photo

FEATURES GAVIN HARRISON (PORCUPINE TREE, KING CRIMSON), JONAS REINGOLD (THE FLOWER KINGS, STEVE HACKETT), RANDY MCSTINE (STEVEN WILSON), GREG HOWE (PROTOCOL 4, DARWIN), MOHINI DEY (DARWIN), MARCEL COENEN (AYREON), MICHAEL MILLS (TOEHIDER, AYREON), SYDNEY'S MAGIC FIRE ORCHESTRA AND THE ACCLAIMED CANTILLATION CHOIR

Originally commissioned as a full-length ballet by the Royal New Zealand Ballet and West Australian Ballet, Macbeth is Christopher Gordon's compelling musical response to one of Shakespeare's darkest and most enduring tragedies. Premiered to critical acclaim in 2026, this ambitious work now receives its first standalone album release on Madfish, coming on 30th October. Speaking about the announcement, Christopher shared “It has been an extraordinary and uplifting experience to work with such incredible musicians on this deep epic tale and I am thrilled that the album can finally go out into the world.”

The recording features an extraordinary international cast of musicians, including Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Crimson), Jonas Reingold (The Flower Kings, Steve Hackett), Randy McStine (Steven Wilson), Greg Howe (Protocol 4, DarWin), Mohini Dey (DarWin), Marcel Coenen (Ayreon) and Michael Mills (Toehider, Ayreon), joined by Sydney's Magic Fire Orchestra, the acclaimed Cantillation choir, a string octet and distinguished soloists under Gordon's direction.

Christopher Gordon - Macbeth Thumbnail

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR CHRISTOPHER GORDON’S ‘MACBETH’: https://youtu.be/shSazhVO3_A

Christopher Gordon - Macbeth Cover

Christopher Gordon - Macbeth
The Battle Lost and Won – 06:23
This Night's Great Business – 05:22
If It Were Done – 06:05
Night's Black Agents – 05:23
The Banquet – 10:51
Something Wicked This Way Comes – 04:47
Out Damned Spot – 03:28
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow – 07:53

Christopher Gordon - Macbeth Vinyl & CD

‘MACBETH’ WILL BE RELEASED ON CLASSIC BLACK VINYL LP, DIGIPACK CD WITH 12-PAGE BOOKLET AND DIGITALLY. PRE-ORDER HERE.: https://christophergordon.lnk.to/MACBETH

Drawing together progressive rock, contemporary orchestral writing and jazz influences into a richly cinematic score, Macbeth traces the psychological descent of its central characters across eight expansive movements. From the ominous opening of 'The Battle Lost and Won' to the haunting finale 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow', Gordon balances moments of immense power with passages of striking intimacy, capturing the tension, ambition and fatalism at the heart of Shakespeare's play.

Recorded and mixed at Sydney's Trackdown Studios, Macbeth presents a suite from Gordon's acclaimed ballet score in a form that stands confidently as a complete listening experience, bringing this remarkable work beyond the stage for the first time.

FOLLOW CHRISTOPHER GORDON
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.gordon.73
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI8hPtTteJUXygkKSLWEyAg
WEBSITE: https://christophergordon.net/

Madfish Logo

www.madfishmusic.com

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

9/01/2026

Swedish Artist Malou Berg Releases the Piece ”SPIRAL - An Inner Journey”

Malou Berg - SPIRAL - An Inner Journey Cover

Snäcksjön, Sweden – Malou Mountain Music is thrilled to release her album Spiral - An Inner Journey on all streaming services. Spiral - An Inner Journey, also released as a CD, is the final release in Malou Berg’s series of nine CDs called The Pleiadian Suite.

Malou Berg’s 40-minute piece, “Spiral – An Inner Journey”, takes the listener on a relaxing and life-affirming journey centered on the theme of birth. It all began when Malou wanted to record a longer piece of music, where the music was created from scratch, from the moment producer Lasse Nilsson pressed the record button.

No structure. No melody. No lyrics. No form. It could have ended in chaos. Instead, what emerged was an evocative piece of magical music.

The journey began when world-class percussionist Xavier Desandre Navarres started playing, without a word, on bowls tuned to 639 Hz—that is, the key of E-flat major, but slightly higher than the traditional Western/German tuning. The piece thus follows the ancient, so-called Solfeggio scale, also known as the “frequency of love”. It is linked to the heart chakra, and is believed to create harmony.

“Many of us haven’t had a clue why, but the Solfeggio frequency feels better in the body than the traditional Western scale,” Malou notes. The scale’s fundamental tone created a sort of “drone,” which in turn laid the foundation for Thomas Hellsten’s deeply musical keyboard playing and Malou’s fantastic vocal performances, which convey a wealth of emotional expression. One can only imagine the mutual trust and sensitivity required for this almost telepathic approach to work.

“Even my singing is exactly as it was at the moment of creation—I haven’t re-recorded or edited anything,” Malou reveals, ”but we did add backing vocals and a few other instruments”.

Framed by a drizzling rain and harmonious birdsong, the various parts flow seamlessly into one another.

Sung in Pleiadian, a language Malou herself invented, the song depicts the seed, something rising up, followed by anticipation, expansion, stabilization, form, and structure, before the time has come for birth. Then comes wonder, relaxation, and stillness.

”Spiral - An Inner Journey” was mixed by experienced and highly talented producer/engineer and musician, Lasse Nilsson. When putting the finishing touches to the mix, Lasse consistently started from scratch, in order to maintain a holistic approach to the piece. Malou also wanted to tie the last part to first one so that the listener can play the track on repeat, and not be entirely sure when it starts over.

“I think it’s absolutely the best mix Lasse has ever done with my music,” says Malou. “It’s airy and exciting, yet nuanced.”

Malou’s songs usually arrive fully formed. Melody and lyrics - the whole package - all at once.

Only then her knowledge and experience take over: arrangement, vocal harmonies and general flow.

“When you receive the songs that way, it’s a gift to myself as well. It allows me to listen to the music and take joy in it. Not because I ”made” it, but because I’ve had the privilege of receiving it”.

“Spiral - An Inner Journey” is meditative, harmonious, and dynamic. It lends itself to both active listening and together with other activities. With its sense of presence, rich sensuality, and playfulness, it is a vibrant, pulsating work of total art celebrating life and its origins.

“Given the state of the world right now, anything that can bring a sense of calm to the body and soul is sorely needed,” Malou observes.

Consciously or not, people strive for balance and healing. The ancient Solfeggio scale helps us in this quest. ”Spiral - An Inner Journey” was released on all major streaming services in the spring of 2026. When the decision to also submit ”Spiral” for the Grammy jury’s consideration reached Xavier, the world class percussionist reacted with delight:

”This album is fantastic, I love it and it’s a beautiful decision to send it to the Grammy awards. This music is made of joy, happiness and the deepest side of our souls. We made a wonderful connection, and Lars magnified the result of these sessions”.

Sweden, August 2026 – Listen to SPIRAL - An Inner Journey

Spiral is available on all major streaming services

Listen on malou.se: https://www.malou.se/en/album/spiral-an-inner-journey
Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/track/0VWE9dFiRooHwu3QDzxouA?si=c89ec66b232c4764
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/song/spiral-an-inner-journey/6766096561
Tidal: https://tidal.com/album/521255093/u
Youtube Music: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=NQG0Eu1Sy5A&si=le4RkX4rrOn1YQtD

Official Website: https://www.malou.se/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MalouBergMMM/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maloubergmusic/

Contact information: Malou Berg, Malou Mountain Music AB Phone: +46 70-316 3100 info@malou.se

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

8/31/2026

WILL SELLENRAAD RETURNS WITH THE CONTINUATION TO GREENE STREET VOL. 1

Will Sellenraad - Greene Street Vol. 2 Cover

GREENE STREET VOL. 2 IS COMING IN THE FALL AND THE FIRST SINGLE “MY LOVE AND I“ IS OUT NOW THROUGH DEKO ENTERTAINMENT.

Stockton, NJ - Greene Street Vol. 2 brings together guitarist Will Sellenraad, bassist Elam Friedlander, and drummer Eric McPherson for a recording rooted in trust, spontaneity, and tradition. Recorded at GB's Juke Joint in New York City on August 15, 2025, the album captures three musicians meeting with a shared commitment to honest interaction and creative discovery.

As a continuation of Greene Street vol.1, this recording reflects an ongoing exploration of the musical relationships, influences, and experiences that have shaped their work in and around New York City's creative music community. Rather than functioning as a showcase for any single musician, Greene Street Vol. 2 presents a genuinely collaborative trio sound, where each voice contributes equally to the direction and character of the music.

The album was recorded in a single afternoon with only a handful of takes devoted to each composition. There was little interest in chasing the perfect production, more so the focus was on as much MoJo as possible. Capturing performances with energy, personality, and the moment itself. The result is a recording that preserves the immediacy of musicians listening and responding to one another in real time. As Sellenraad states, “This record is the result of us playing a lot over the years.  We had the opportunity to get in the studio and really wanted to get as analog as possible with this recording. We hope you can feel it”  

The repertoire balances original compositions with material drawn from the jazz tradition. Sellenraad's compositions "Double Down," "Bean's Blues," and "Icebreaker" sit comfortably alongside interpretations of David Raskin's "My Love and I," Frank Foster's "Raunchy Rita," John Coltrane's "Satellite," and Jerome Kern's classic "Yesterdays." Each selection serves as a starting point for exploration, allowing the trio to move fluidly between structure and improvisation while maintaining a strong sense of melody and swing.

Listen to: https://push.fm/ps/b4vn6jbc

Will Sellenraad Photo

The album opens with a lyrical interpretation of the beautiful "My Love and I," featuring Sellenraad on nylon-string guitar before returning to electric guitar for the remainder of the recording. Throughout the session, Friedlander's deep, resonant bass sound and McPherson's masterful drumming provide a constantly shifting foundation, creating space for conversation rather than accompaniment.

Greene Street Vol. 2 documents a moment. It is the sound of three musicians bringing their individual histories, influences, and instincts into the room and allowing the music to unfold naturally. The album embraces the qualities that have always defined great jazz recordings: communication, risk, lyricism, and the excitement of discovery.

Pre-order Greene Street Vol. 2 here: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/will-sellenraad

Track Listing
My Love and I (David Raskin)
Double Down (Will Sellenraad)
Raunchy Rita (Frank Foster)
Bean's Blues (Will Sellenraad)
Icebreaker (Will Sellenraad)
Satellite (John Coltrane)
Yesterdays (Jerome Kern)

For more information:
https://www.dekoentertainment.com
Deko Entertainment–Art Has Value

Deko Entertainment Logo

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

8/07/2026

7D Media Presents Solace, a New Ambient Jazz Album by Jonathan Crossley, David Kollar and Lukas Ligeti

Jonathan Crossley, David Kollar and Lukas Ligeti - Solace Cover

Special guest: Arve Henriksen

Watch the video for ’They Are Coming’: https://youtu.be/6xCPODJPi3A

Release date: September 11, 2026 | Cat# 7D2602

Genre: Ambient Jazz

Secondary genres: Electroacoustic improvisation, Experimental jazz, Fourth World / post-Fourth World

Santa Fe, NM — 7D Media is proud to announce Solace, a dynamic new set of wholly improvised works from Jonathan Crossley, David Kollar and Lukas Ligeti. Recorded in June 2024 during an artistic residency at the University of Liverpool, the project captures three singular musical minds in deep, real-time dialogue.

On this recording, the digitally enabled guitar practices of Crossley and Kollar intersect with the polymetric, Africa-inflected drumming of Ligeti, generating environments that move between ambient, pulsating and rhythmically intricate states. Crossley's playing fuses guitar, synthesis and real-time digital control into an expanded, gestural improvisational language, while Kollar treats the guitar as a vehicle for expansive, genre-defying expression, ranging from tonal abstraction to avant-garde interplay. Ligeti's drumming draws on experimental, jazz, contemporary and world traditions, weaving overlapping polyrhythms and cross-cultural influences into a percussive approach that is both grounded and exploratory.

On the title track, Solace, the trio are joined by Arve Henriksen, whose haunting trumpet work paints a picture of melancholy and openness within this improvised setting, adding an expansive, textural dimension that underscores the album's emotional and sonic breadth.

The tracks Solace and They Are Coming are already available for purchase/streaming.

Track Listing
1. Solace (10:04)
2. Interlude (2:16)
3. They Are Coming (6:45)
4. Freedom to Choose (3:28)
5. Imagining Marrakesh (3:47)
6. Games to Play (3:08)
7. You Don't Know What to Do With Your Life (4:11)
8. Coda (8:17)
9. Dub Ephemeral (7:52)

Photos of Jonathan Crossley David Kollar and Lukas Ligetti

Personnel
Jonathan Crossley – Guitar, Synth-Guitar, Bass
David Kollar – Guitar, Synthesisers
Lukas Ligeti – Drums
Arve Henriksen – Trumpet

Production
Recorded live at the University of Liverpool by Phil Almond-Higgins, 27 and 28 June 2024.
Additional recording by Jonathan Crossley and Arve Henriksen.
Mixed by Jonathan Crossley.
Mastered by Andrew Larrabee.
Artwork and design by Michal Kořán.
Label: 7D Media — 7dmedia.com

To pre-order: https://7dmedia.com/solace

For more information:
https://www.lukasligeti.com/
https://davidkollar.com/home
https://www.jonathancrossley.uk/

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

8/04/2026

ART IN AMERICA TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM DREAMS OF THE DISAPPEARED

Art in America - Dreams of the Disappeared Cover

Follow-up to 2025 comeback album, Rise

Features original members, siblings Chris Flynn, Shishonee Flynn and Dan Flynn

All new material

Out September 24, 2026 on Iconoclassic Records

Art in America returns with Dreams of the Disappeared – the next chapter in one of progressive rock’s most remarkable stories.

Some bands become legends because of the albums they released. Others achieve near-mythical status because of the music that was almost lost. Art in America belongs firmly in the latter category.

When the Detroit, Michigan-based group released their self-titled debut in 1983, progressive rock gained something genuinely new. Combining Chris Flynn’s ambitious songwriting with the pioneering use of Shishonee Flynn’s concert harp as a lead instrument, the band created a sound unlike anything else. Produced by legendary Yes and Emerson Lake and Palmer collaborator Eddy Offord, with arrangements by Steve Morse and keyboards by T. Lavitz (both of Dixie Dregs), and cover art by Ioannis, the Art in America album and its eponymous single and music video became cult favorites. Collaborations with Genesis producer David Hentschel and King Crimson bass player Tony Levin followed before Art in America disappeared from view as musical fashions shifted.

Now, more than forty years later, Art in America continues their story with a new studio album: Dreams of the Disappeared. Their fourth album and their second new release over consecutive years, Dreams of the Disappeared pushes further into the rich musical territory the band first began exploring decades ago.

For songwriter Chris Flynn, the album’s title reflects both its musical structure and its deeper philosophical themes. “These songs morph together as dreams often do. They contain a continuing thread or theme, again a definition of dreams. And in a larger sense, we prepare for the infinite, our disappearance, by defining the finite, our Dreams of the Disappeared.”

That dream-like continuity flows throughout the album, where melodies evolve organically and individual songs feel like chapters within a larger musical narrative. The band’s distinctive identity remains intact, led by the unmistakable sound of Shishonee Flynn’s harp — still one of the most original instruments in progressive rock. As she explains, “Our new album Dreams of the Disappeared features several unique instruments from around the world including a Japanese koto, an African balangi, and an Indian tamboura. Most striking is my ebony and bronze Lyon & Healy pedal harp.”

“What has always set Art in America apart from other rock bands is our unusual instrumentation in conjunction with my brother Chris’s songwriting. Art in America was the first rock band to integrate harp into our unique prog/art rock sound. We continue to explore different tonal landscapes with these beautiful, unusual instruments.” This remains central to the band’s compositional language, weaving alongside guitars, keyboards and intricate rhythms to create music that feels simultaneously familiar and unlike anything else in progressive rock.

Art in America - Dreams of the Disappeared Product Shot

Dreams of the Disappeared also continues the band’s tradition of treating every aspect of an album as part of a complete artistic statement. The cover artwork, based on the ancient Greek comedy/tragedy masks, was painted by drummer Dan Flynn, whose art illustrates the lyrics throughout the 20-page CD booklet.

Dreams of the Disappeared represents the continuation of a creative journey interrupted by circumstance rather than inspiration. Its themes of memory, transformation and renewal resonate all the more powerfully because they are lived experience.

Some dreams disappear. Others simply wait to be heard.

Dreams of the Disappeared will be released September 24, 2026.

Art in America Photo

Dreams of the Disappeared (CD and Digital, Iconoclassic Records ICON 1098)
1. Others
2. Requiem
3. Road Thrill
4. Game
5. Shepherd
6. Three Links
7. Walking the Dog
8. Pink Dominoes
9. Falling Forward
10. Battle of Because
11. Sorry to Say
12. Postscript

To pre-order:
Label store: https://iconoclassicrecords.com/album/dreams-of-the-disappeared/
Independent retail: https://recordstoreday.com/upc/990481103843

For more information:
https://www.artinamericamusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/ArtinAmerica.music
https://www.youtube.com/@ArtinAmericaOfficial-f8b8r

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

8/03/2026

Drummer Bob Holz Returns With Album Release Featuring John McLaughlin and Jean Luc Ponty

Bob Holz - Next In Line Cover

Los Angeles - Drummer, composer, producer and MVD Audio recording artist Bob Holz will release an album on November 6th, 2026 featuring Rolling Stones bassist Darry Jones, John McLaughlin, Jean Luc Ponty, Larry Coryell, Randy Brecker, Stanley Clarke and Mike Stern.

The album is titled Next In Line and is engineered by Dennis Moody. It will be released on MVD Audio. The Executive Producer is Rob Stathis.

Next In Line is a "best of Bob Holz" compilation of ten remastered tracks selected from Bob's eight previously released albums on MVD Audio.

The first track “Jammin Man” is reggae fusion at its best with a blistering bass solo from Stanley Clarke. Shooting Range features trading solos between Larry Coryell, Randy Brecker and Steve Weingart. World Turned Upside represents a mini Mahavishnu Orchestra reunion featuring John McLaughlin, Jean Luc Ponty and Ralphe Armstrong. “Larry's Blues” is a heartfelt tribute to Larry Coryell featuring beautiful guitar playing by Mike Stern. A stand out on the record is “Better Try” which features bassist Darry Jones and saxophonist Brandon Fields. The tune is sure to be a smooth jazz listener's favorite. Throughout Next In Line, Bob Holz's drumming reaffirms his reputation as one of jazz fusion's most talented drummers. The drumming on this album is nothing short of world class. Holz is known for his use of dynamics combined with amazing chops, sense of time, finesse, groove and taste. He is a profoundly musical drummer who also happens to enjoy composing music. The tune “Flat Out” is one of Bob's compositions and features Randy Brecker on trumpet. Joining Bob as the percussionist on Next In Line is former Weather Report drummer Alex Acuna.

“The Tunnel” is a unique tune that features some beautiful guitar playing by the late, great Dean Brown. The album closes out with “Moving Eyes” from Bob's first album A Vision Forward and features guitarist Mike Stern.

Bob Holz Photo

Bob has released eight albums on MVD Audio. Holz got his break playing and recording with guitarist Larry Coryell from 2015-2017. He has gone on to perform and record with some of the biggest names in the music business including Elliot Yamin, Darryl Jones, Mike Stern, Jean Luc Ponty, John McLaughlin, Randy Brecker, Larry Coryell, Stanley Clarke, Alex Acuna, Airto Moreira, Ralphe Armstrong, Billy Steinway, Dean Brown, Brandon Fields and Chet Catallo.  Bob's band A Vision Forward has performed across the United States in Los Angeles, Washington, DC, Detroit, Cleveland, Buffalo, Rochester, Saratoga Springs and Syracuse. In 2023 they performed at the Syracuse Jazz Festival. Check out Bob's performance video on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/46zVFDa3Vtc

Track List:
1.Jammin Man-5:04
2.Shooting Range-4:24
3.World Turned Upside Down-6:07
4.Eleven High-3:21
5.Larry’s Blues-6:33
6.Flat Out-6:31
7.Better Try-3:55
8.The Tunnel-5:02
9.Silverthorne-6:22
10.Moving Eyes-4:19

Players:
Bob Holz-drums
Jean Luc Ponty-violin track 3
Billy Steinway-keyboards
Steve Weingart-keyboards track 2
John McLaughlin-guitar track 3
Larry Coryell-guitar track 2
Mike Stern-guitar tracks 5,9 and 10
Dean Brown-guitar tracks 7and 8
Alex Machacek-guitar tracks 1,4 and 6
Stanley Clarke-bass track1
Ralphe Armstrong-bass tracks 1,3,5 and 9
Darryl Jones-bass track 7
Ric Fierabracci-bass track 8
John Viavattine Jr- bass tracks 2 and 10
Mike Schoefter-bass tracks 4 and 6
Randy Brecker-trumpet tracks 1,2,4,5,6,8 and 9
Brandon Fields-saxophone track 7
Ada Rovatti-saxophone tracks 4,5,8 and 9
Jesse Collins-saxophone track 2
Alex Acuna-percussion track 7
James Moody-acoustic guitar track 4

Next In Line Credits
Artist-Bob Holz
Title-Next In Line
Label-MVD Audio
Produced by Bob Holz
Executive Producer-Rob Stathis
Sound Engineer-Dennis Moody
Additional Sound Engineer-Frank Stepanek tracks 2 and 10

All songs composed by Bob Holz(ASCAP) and Billy Steinway(BMI) except:
Jammin Man by Bob Holz
World Turned Upside Down by Billy Steinway
Better Try by Bob Holz, Brandon Fields and Billy Steinway
Bob Holz uses Canopus drums and Paiste cymbals
MVD Audio
A division of MVD Entertainment Group
Copyright 2026 All rights reserved. Bob Holz ASCAP-BMI

Pre-order Next In Line: https://mvdshop.com/products/bob-holz-next-in-line-cd

For more information: www.bobholzband.com

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

7/27/2026

NEW CRACK THE SKY ALBUM 'BLESSED' TO RECEIVE PHYSICAL RELEASE WORLDWIDE AUGUST 21, 2026

Crack The Sky - Blessed Cover

20TH STUDIO ALBUM BY THE PROGRESSIVE ROCK BAND

"KISS THE DOG" MUSIC VIDEO PREMIERES AUGUST 3

CRACK THE SKY PLAYED THIS YEAR'S CRUISE TO THE EDGE

UPCOMING APPEARANCE AT PROGSTOCK 2026

"There are some of us out here who live in fear and pain. Others, in peace and calm. Those others are the truly blessed." – John Palumbo

Crack The Sky's 20th studio album, Blessed, carries their unmistakable sound: intelligent lyrics, inventive arrangements, dueling lead guitars, stop-start rhythms, melodies that linger long after the album ends, and a sense of humor that never undercuts emotional impact. Blessed has thus far only been available on streaming services and as a limited-edition CD-R. Blessed is now receiving a full worldwide retail release on CD from Iconoclassic Records on August 21, 2026.

The band celebrates its 50th anniversary with four of its five original members intact: songwriter and frontman John Palumbo – whose unmistakable creative vision has made Crack The Sky one of rock's most enduring treasures – guitarist Rick Witkowski, and the locked rhythm section of Joe Macre (bass) and Joey D'Amico (drums). Guitarist Bobby Hird's Crack The Sky tenure spans 40+ years, and debuting keyboardist Bill Hubauer (of the Neal Morse Band) adds another dimension with his virtuosic solos. "I don't think that this record could be titled any better than simply Blessed," asserts Hird. "We really got to dig in and being in the same room, recording live, and bouncing ideas off each other was just wonderful. Just a great experience and we feel that the end product speaks for itself." Blessed plays as the work of artists who continue to challenge themselves creatively while never losing sight of their history. "To be able to release a new and relevant album 50 years from our original debut is nothing less than ‘Blessed,'" believes Witkowski, who also produced the album.  

2026 is a particularly busy year for Crack The Sky. Headline dates are bookended with an acclaimed performance on Cruise To The Edge in March and upcoming appearance at ProgStock 2026 in October. John Palumbo's socially conscious solo album (and Iconoclassic Records debut), R U SCIENCE? was released this May; Crack The Sky's Bobby Hird and Joe Macre perform throughout the record. Simultaneously, Palumbo published his book, Swimming the Cleveland Ocean, a work of absurdist fiction. CRACK THE SKY: 50th Anniversary Documentary (A Film by Duane Tudahl) was successfully funded through Kickstarter and is in production.

Crack The Sky Photo

Emerging from the industrial town of Weirton, West Virginia, in the early 1970s, Crack The Sky burst onto the progressive rock scene with a unique blend of power-pop hooks, hard-rock guitar riffs, and quirky lyrics. Their debut album, released in 1975, was hailed by Rolling Stone as the "debut album of the year," cementing their status as a rising star in the genre.

Led by the songwriting prowess of John Palumbo and the guitar virtuosity of Rick Witkowski and Bobby Hird, Crack The Sky quickly established themselves as innovators within the progressive rock landscape. Their music drew inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including the Beatles, Yes, King Crimson, Genesis, and James Brown, resulting in a sound that was both familiar and groundbreaking.

Crack The Sky's first three albums charted on the Billboard 200, and they toured extensively with prominent acts like Frank Zappa, ELO, Rush, Kansas, and Supertramp. Their live performances were renowned for their energy and precision, earning them a reputation as one of the most dynamic and exciting bands on the circuit.

Despite challenges and setbacks over the decades, Crack The Sky has remained a consistent force. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to combine technical proficiency with catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Today, they continue experimenting with new sounds and styles, proving their creative spirit remains as vibrant as ever.

Crack The Sky - Blessed CD

BLESSED (Iconoclassic Records ICON 1097)
Imagination
Kiss The Dog
Blessed
Stare
Mojo Man
Brain Police
I Can't Walk On Water
How Can You Sleep?
Little Men With Big Guitars
The Dance
Artificial Man
It's All In My Head 
Air Strike

Crack The Sky is:
John Palumbo - Lead Vocals and Guitar
Rick Witkowski - Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar and Backing Vocals
Bobby Hird - Lead Guitar, Acoustic, Slide, Dobro and Backing Vocals
Joe D'Amico - Drums
Joe Macre - Basses
Bill Hubauer - Piano, Keyboards and Backing Vocals

Pre-order "Blessed":

Amazon preorder: https://www.amazon.com/Blessed-Crack-Sky/dp/B0GX7N4379
Label preorder:  https://iconoclassicrecords.com/album/blessed/
Independent retail preorder: https://recordstoreday.com/UPC/990481103478

For more information:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cracktheskychannel
X: https://x.com/CrackTheSky1975
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cracktheskyofficial/
Website: https://crackthesky.com/

Iconoclassic Records:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iconoclassicrecords
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconoclassicrecords
X: https://x.com/iconoclassicCDs
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iconoclassicrecords
Website: https://iconoclassicrecords.com

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

7/23/2026

OZRIC TENTACLES RETURN WITH THEIR NEW STUDIO ALBUM HARMONIC MIND

Ozric Tentacles Logo
Ozric Tentacles Photo

Photo by Simon J Evens

SET FOR RELEASE ON KSCOPE ON 18th SEPTEMBER

For over forty years, Ozric Tentacles have carved out a universe entirely their own. From their roots on the UK's free festival circuit to becoming one of the defining names in experimental rock, the Ozrics have spent more than four decades charting a wonderfully offbeat course through prog, space rock, electronica and beyond, creating an instantly recognisable musical world that has inspired generations of musicians and listeners alike. Today, the band have shared news of their new album Harmonic Mind, set for release on Kscope on 18th September.

Ozric Tentacles - Harmonic Mind Trailer Thumbnail

Harmonic Mind, the band's 17th studio album, is another welcome chapter in that ever-evolving story. Named after the geometric structure and harmonic nature of existence, the album sees the Ozrics once again weaving together soaring guitar melodies, intricate rhythms, lush synth textures and deep, hypnotic grooves into the kind of free-flowing psychedelic odyssey that has become their trademark.

Recorded at the band's home studios as it gradually took shape across Scotland, Devon and finally Glastonbury, Harmonic Mind also captures something a little different. Featuring the full touring line-up - including drummer Pat Garvey, bassist Corey Wallace, percussionist Paul Hankin and multi-instrumentalist Saskia Maxwell - the album has a natural energy that reflects the chemistry of the band's live performances, with each player bringing their own voice to the music.

Ozric Tentacles - Harmonic Mind Vinyl & CD Mockups

HARMONIC MIND WILL BE RELEASED EVERYWHERE ON CLASSIC BLACK VINYL LP, TRANSPARENT BLUE VINYL LP, CD AND DIGITALLY. PRE-ORDER HERE: https://ozrictentacles.lnk.to/Harmonic_Mind

Ozric Tentacles - Harmonic Mind Purple Vinyl

A LIMITED TRANSPARENT PURPLE VINYL LP EDITION IS ALSO AVAILABLE THROUGH OFFICIAL KSCOPE AND OZRIC TENTACLES STORES.

From the driving pulse of "Guardstones" to the cosmic momentum of "Space Platform", Harmonic Mind is packed with the flowing musicianship and exploratory spirit that fans have come to expect and adore. "Malachite" pays tribute to one of Ed Wynne's favourite minerals, while also giving centre stage to his custom sandalwood acoustic from Kif Wood Guitars, complete with a beautiful malachite inlay around the sound hole. It's one of many moments that highlights the warmth and detail running throughout the album, alongside the fluid interplay between Ed Wynne's guitar and Silas Neptune's ever-shifting synth landscapes.

Produced by Ed Wynne and Silas Neptune, with mastering handled by Silas for the first time, the album feels both fresh and reassuringly familiar. Even the return of the beloved Erp on the cover art offers a knowing nod to longtime listeners. There's no radical change of direction here, just Ozric Tentacles doing what they do best.

Ozric Tentacles - Harmonic Mind Cover

Ozric Tentacles – Harmonic Mind
1. Guardstones [06:40]
2. Space Platform [05:57]
3. Harmonic Mind [09:12]
4. Malachite [07:52]
5. Tillamook [09:11]
6. Sumipad [04:54]

Since emerging from the UK's festival scene in the early '80s, Ozric Tentacles have remained one of psychedelic music's true originals. More than four decades on, they're still pushing forward, still exploring new sonic possibilities, and still making music with the same spirit of curiosity and freedom that first set them apart. 2026 sees Ozric Tentacles continue their extensive touring schedule with a large run of Autumn/Winter shows and a number of co-headline shows alongside The Orb.

OZRIC TENTACLES TOUR DATES
2026
23rd July – SubArt Open Air, Kranj, Slovenia
24th July – Open Air Kotač, Pula, Croatia
25th July – Regenerator, Zabok, Croatia
22nd August – Down the Hill Festival, Aarschot, Belgium
31st August – Honey Fest, Honeystreet, Devizes, England
4th September – Existence Festival, Tetbury, England
17th September – Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, England
18th September – Equinox Festival, Coningsby, England
16th October – Gazarte Ground Stage, Athens, Greece
17th October – WE, Thessaloniki, Greece
11th November – Buttermarket, Shrewsbury, England
12th November – Boilershop, Newcastle, England (with The Orb)
13th November – Lemon Tree, Aberdeen, Scotland
14th November – Queen Margaret Union, Glasgow, Scotland (with The Orb)
15th November – Platform, Morecambe, England
18th November – Social, Hull, England
19th November – O2 Academy, Leeds, England (with The Orb)
20th November – O2 Academy, Liverpool, England (with The Orb)
21st November – Bodega, Nottingham, England
22nd November – Club 85, Hitchin, England
25th November – Con Club, Lewes, England
26th November – O2 Academy, Bournemouth, England (with The Orb)
27th November – O2 Academy, Bristol, England (with The Orb)
28th November – O2 Academy 2, Oxford, England
2nd December – The Church, Ipswich, England
3rd December – Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, England
4th December – O2 Ritz, Manchester, England (with The Orb)
5th December – O2 Kentish Town Forum, London, England
2027
25th February – De Helling, Utrecht, The Netherlands
26th February – De Pul, Uden, The Netherlands
27th February – Poppodium Boerderij, Zoetermeer, The Netherlands
19th March – Shiiine Weekender, Skegness, England
2nd–9th April – Cruise to the Edge, Miami, USA

BUY TICKETS: https://ozrics.com/live-shows/

Harmonic Mind will be released on 18th September on Kscope, pre-order here: https://ozrictentacles.lnk.to/Harmonic_Mind

Ozric Tentacles
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialOzricTentacles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozrictentaclesofficial
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Iv00ucAIqr5KVS7bXGFa9?si=WU3Uy1BMQJav4zGk16oJyw
Apple: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/ozric-tentacles/464266722
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OzricTentaclesOfficial

Kscope Logo

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

7/20/2026

Prog Multi-Instrumentalist Tim Morse To Release New Album “The Fourth Crossing” September 7, 2026

Tim Morse - The Fourth Crossing Cover

Prog multi-instrumentalist Tim Morse will be releasing his new album “The Fourth Crossing” on September 7, 2026! “The Fourth Crossing” is primarily instrumental electronic music, in the tradition of such artists as Synergy, Vangelis, Tangerine Dream and Brian Eno. Most of the music on The Fourth Crossing came out of improvisation and often was directly inspired by the sounds used on the recording, with the emphasis being on emotion expressed through ambience, melody, harmony and sonic textures. The compositions are primarily keyboard driven, with percussion and occasional guitars making an appearance.

“The Fourth Crossing” mirrors Tim’s first recording experience. When he was 16 years old, he had saved up enough money to buy a Mini-Moog synthesizer. Completely entranced by this extraordinary instrument, he squirreled himself away recording music with the Moog, a couple of guitars and a piano using a reel-to-reel tape recorder. Says Tim, “I have fond memories of that era and The Fourth Crossing is the updated version of the music I created all those years ago.”

The Fourth Crossing isn’t a concept album per se. Instead, it is a collection of musical vignettes - each one exploring a different emotional journey. While the title of the album has a specific meaning to him, Tim would rather not share it with the audience and instead let them create their own meaning from it.

Says Tim, “I had decided that my next CD would be an instrumental, electronic music album and at the beginning of the year I started working on ideas. Most of the initial composition came from improvisation, and in many cases the sounds I was working with inspired a piece of music. In fact, I’d say on The Fourth Crossing that the timbre chosen is nearly as important as the music performed on these pieces. I also found inspiration came from different sources/places. On one song entitled ‘Space Station Lounge’ I used the Brian Eno technique of creating music for a particular environment - in this case, Sci-Fi 50’s space station. I’m very pleased with the hypnotic and spacey atmosphere it conjures and look forward to creating a video for the composition.”

“I recorded most of the music in my home studio, and for the first time I wrote and played everything on my own. I spent a wonderful afternoon in Los Angeles at the Vintage Synthesizer Museum playing old analog synthesizers and recording important parts of the album. It was only in postproduction that I brought in another person (Craig Long of Paradise Studios) to help with the final mixing and mastering.”

The prerelease publicity for the new album recently caught the attention of Doug Helvering (of The Daily Doug podcast, with over 500,000 subscribers).  After he viewed The Fourth Crossing's video trailer, he reached out on social media to enthusiastically comment that he 'enjoyed your track!'  Check out The Fourth Crossing trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBaY9G1tXjc

Track list:
1. Submerged
2. Vibration
3. Assembly Line
4. Dreamcatcher
5. Hieroglyphics
6. Eternal
7. Confusion in Aisle 14
8. Structure
9. The Fourth Crossing
10. Zephyr
11. Space Station Lounge
12. The Celestial Cathedral

Tim Morse Photo

Tim Morse began his instrument instruction at a young age and started composing immediately upon picking up the guitar. He later moved onto the piano and studied as a music composition major, writing extended pieces such as a string quartet and two piano sonatas. During this time Tim performed with various rock and fusion bands and played on many recording sessions.

Tim’s first album of original music was entitled “Transformation” and was released in 2005. The album was well received by the Progressive Rock community and was recognized as keeping in the tradition of seventies prog-rock yet recorded and performed with a modern edge.

His second album “Faithscience” was released in 2012 and musically it picked up where “Transformation” left off, continuing to explore the best of Progressive Rock. In addition to this release Tim became a member of the Jerry Jennings band and formed The Mangoes with Bret Bingham. The Mangoes released their debut album in 2014 and it was appreciated for its pop sensibility and quirky humor. His more recent solo releases “III”, “The Archaeology Project” and "Soundtracks" were also warmly embraced by critics and fans alike.

Tim’s cover version of the classic Yes song “Awaken” has received the ultimate compliments from members of Yes – Rick Wakeman enthused, “Best YES cover I’ve heard …well done to everybody” and Jon Anderson said, “Great job with ‘Awaken’… the fact you sat around and decided to perform it is a treat…. not an easy work!” Composer/musician Adam Holzman was so impressed by this performance of it that he offered to do his own remix of the song (both versions can be found on Tim’s Youtube channel).

Watch Tim Morse/Parallels 'Awaken' cover version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ay1N95FqXWM

Tim is also a published author and his book “Yesstories” has sold over 20,000 copies worldwide. His book “Classic Rock Stories” was published by the St. Martin’s Press and was featured on the Howard Stern show and VH1. He has also written for music magazines over the years including Mix, Guitar World, Keyboard and Bass Player.

Here’s what the press has said about Tim Morse’s previous albums:

(Transformation, 20th Anniversary Edition)

"For those with an appetite for classic progressive rock in the vein of Yes, Genesis, ELP and Rush and missed out on Transformation first time around, there is much to appreciate on this highly recommended remastered reissue." – Geoff Feakes, DPRP

“One of the best of 2025.” – Preston Frazier, Slang of Ages

“As the title implies, it's focused on capturing and delivering positive energy and perspectives to the listener. It's compelling stuff fans of classic art rock are guaranteed to dig.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

"Transformation (and its accompanying extras) is a must-have for any fan of classic or modern prog, and can serve as a wonderful bridge between the two. There's something for everyone on this album.” – Progwereld

“Sounds fresh and plugged in...reminiscent of early Yes and King Crimson.” – Jazzweekly.com

“Impressive in its symphonic heaviness and wondrous scope.” – DMME.NET

“Transformation, the debut album by progressive rock multiinstrumentalist Tim Morse, has returned with renewed clarity, expanded depth, and a generous helping of bonus material. Remastered in 2025 to mark its 20th anniversary, Transformation 20th Anniversary Edition is both a time capsule and a fresh statement of purpose from an artist whose devotion to craft has never wavered.” – ProgressiveRockCentral.com

(Soundtracks)

“A kaleidoscopic recording that seamlessly shifts from anthemic rock to buoyant Beatles-esque pop to sweeping and swirling kinetic instrumentals to ethereal soundscapes. Soundtracks features literate, observational songwriting that explores the complexity of modern society and relationships, and offers a hopeful view that the positive elements of this species will eventually triumph.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“I find I want to listen more and more. Soundtracks is a very engaging album and Tim Morse is a writer and player with lots to say. Buy this right now!” – John Wilcox, Progsheet

“A pleasant album that offers a lot for fans of progressive rock that’s on the mellow and melodic side.” – Jon Davis, Expose

“Taken as a whole, Soundtracks is a pure joy. I can't wait to play it again.” – Michale Popke, Sea of Tranquility

“This album could appeal to fans of Barclay James Harvest, Strawbs, Anthony Phillips, Ken Baird or even Tim Bowness (sans the breathy vocals). I also hear vague but reminiscent snippets here and there from The Beatles which is fine by me.” – Greg Cummins, DPRP

“When the piano-encrusted “Deidra” and “Lullaby” arrive at the scene with a six-string lace in tow to wind things down in the most tender manner, the glacially romantic, yet robustly dynamic, “Vortex” is left hanging in the ether to finally suck the spectator in Tim Morse’s universe. It’s the place to be.” – Dmitry M. Epstein, DME

“It’s high quality and works well. It would probably be a highlight of many artists’ catalog.” – Gary Hill, Music Street Journal

Prog Magazine chose the first single from Soundtracks, "Blueberry Way" as one of its tracks of the week.

(The Archaeology Project)

“A well rounded retrospective and a fitting showcase for his musical inspirations and talents.” – Geoff Feakes, DPRP

“A great way to discover Tim Morse!” – Music in Belgium

“This release is an ideal place to start your exploration of his material.” – Anil Prasad, Innerviews

“A magnificent fourteen song retrospective of Morse’s music from 2005-2020.” – Exclusive Magazine

“Classy...that speaks to both the quality and the consistency of Morse’s music. I can’t think of a better introduction to his music than this CD.” – Gary Hill, Music Street Journal

(Tim Morse III)

“There’s no doubt fans of symphonic prog will find much to enjoy. Recommended.” – Jerry Lucky, The Progressive Rock Files

“Musically, ‘III’ is enjoyable – occupying the lighter end of the Yes style spectrum.” – PROG Magazine

“Recommended for fans of melodic rock with some progressive touches.” – Jon Davis, Expose

(Faithscience)

“Tim Morse deserves to make it into the mainstream, as he surely one of the greats of the genre.” – John Bollenberg, iO Pages

“A smartly arranged, melodic-symphonic opus.” – John Collinge, Progression Magazine

“Probably the biggest surprise of the year…and highly recommended to fans of classic prog.” – Kinesis

(Transformation, original 2005 release)

“Sounds great...unbelievably proficient." – Bill Bruford

"Deftly bridges classic and modern prog." – Sea of Tranquility

"Transformation is a work truly realized, an impressive work of creativity that grows on one even more after repeated listening.” – Andres Valle (Mellotron)

“An interesting and expansive collection of symphonic prog songs…it not only rewards repeated listening, it demands it.” – DPRP

Tim will be creating videos and doing PR to support the release of The Fourth Crossing. He is also working on a new album that he aims to release in 2027. Tim is also planning a one-off concert with special guests for the summer of 2027.

In closing, Tim has this to impart: “I hope that fans of electronic music will check out my new album The Fourth Crossing as I’m very proud of it! Also, I’m always grateful when anyone takes the time to listen to my music. In this modern age of endless distractions, it is a lovely thing when someone will truly listen to music.”

Release date: September 7, 2026
Label: Cymbalick Music

Pre-order “The Fourth Crossing”: https://timmorse.bandcamp.com/album/the-fourth-crossing

For more information:
Tim Morse website: https://timmorse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timmorsemusic
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TimMorseProgRock

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

7/16/2026

RICK WAKEMAN & THE ENGLISH ROCK ENSEMBLE - RETURN TO THE RED PLANET, THE EPIC RETURN TO MARS FROM RICK WAKEMAN

Rick Wakeman & The English Rock Ensemble - Return To The Red Planet Cover

RELEASE DATE: 16th OCTOBER (MADFISH MUSIC)

A new progressive rock suite inspired by both past and the latest discoveries on The Red Planet. Featuring Lee Pomeroy, Dave Colquhoun, Adam Falkner & Mollie Marriott.

"This isn't just another Rick Wakeman album. It's a bloody good one!"
Simon Heyworth - Producer of Tubular Bells

Following his acclaimed 2020 album The Red Planet, Rick Wakeman makes a triumphant and inevitable return to Mars with Return To The Red Planet, a sweeping new progressive work that fuses science, imagination and musical virtuosity into one of the most ambitious recordings of his career. Return To The Red Planet will be released on the Madfish label on 16th October.

Rick Wakeman & The English Rock Ensemble - Return To The Red Planet Thumbnail

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR RETURN TO THE RED PLANET: https://youtu.be/zkO2P-VnBEA?si=K7TH90lTaUv6pGC1

Return To The Red Planet tracklist:
The Jezero Crater – 06:56
Bowie’s Vision – 05:45
Noctis Labyrinthus – 05:28
Noachis Terra (Land of Noah) – 06:23
Witch Hazel Hill – 04:02
St Paul’s Bay – 06:53
Martian Dust Devils – 04:53
Medusae Fossae – 04:26
The Epochs of Mars – 07:45

“Once I started looking at the new data and photographs, I realised there was an entirely new album waiting to be written. There was simply too much more to say about Mars - musically and spiritually - not to return.”Rick Wakeman

At a time when space exploration has moved back to the forefront of human endeavour - with missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond once again capturing the world’s imagination - Return To The Red Planet feels both timely and visionary, rekindling the cosmic spirit that helped define progressive rock’s golden age.

Where its predecessor opened the story, this album explores the planet’s ancient lakes, vast canyon systems, shifting dust storms and geological epochs, drawing directly on the remarkable images and research that have transformed our understanding of Mars in recent years, Wakeman immersing himself in planetary research, data, and mission reports before a single note was written.

Rick Wakeman & The English Rock Ensemble - Return To The Red Planet Mockups

RETURN TO THE RED PLANET WILL BE RELEASED EVERYWHERE ON THE FOLLOWING FORMATS:

- Crystal Clear Gatefold Vinyl LP
- Classic Black Gatefold Vinyl LP
- Digipack CD With 20-page booklet
- CD/Blu-ray edition - includes CD of the studio album + Blu-ray disc featuring Dolby Atmos, 5.1 Surround Sound & Hi-Res Stereo Mixes and The Making Of The 'Return To The Red Planet' Documentary + 20-page printed booklet
- Digital

PRE-ORDER RETURN TO THE RED PLANET

Rick Wakeman & The English Rock Ensemble - Return To The Red Planet Popup Mockups

RETURN TO THE RED PLANET WILL ALSO BE RELEASED ON THE FOLLOWING FORMATS, EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH THE OFFICIAL RICK WAKEMAN STORE:

- CD/Blu-ray edition - Includes CD of the studio album + Blu-ray disc featuring Dolby Atmos, 5.1 Surround Sound & Hi-Res Stereo Mixes and The Making Of The 'Return To The Red Planet' Documentary + 20-page printed booklet. Features an immersive 3D pop-up of Wakeman’s spacecraft landed on Mars

- Gatefold 2LP edition - pressed on Transparent Orange Vinyl and features an immersive 3D pop-up Of Wakeman’s spacecraft landed on Mars

PRE-ORDER VIA RICK WAKEMAN’S OFFICIAL STORE

Recorded between August 2025 and January 2026, the project also marks a welcome return to full band recording, with all musicians working together at Decoy Studios - a creative approach Wakeman considers essential to capturing the spontaneity and energy of progressive rock at its best.

The album is performed by Wakeman’s English Rock Ensemble, featuring bassist Lee Pomeroy, guitarist Dave Colquhoun, drummer Adam Falkner and vocalist Mollie Marriott, daughter of legendary Steve Marriott. The album was mastered by renowned engineer Simon Heyworth.

Among the album’s centrepieces is Bowie’s Vision, a deeply personal homage to Wakeman’s friend David Bowie, whose fascination with Mars helped shape popular culture’s image of the planet. The connection is more than thematic: Wakeman performed the iconic piano on Bowie’s Life on Mars?, making this tribute both musical and autobiographical - a reflection on a shared history, a lasting friendship and one of rock’s most celebrated recordings.

The music was initially composed as keyboard “templates” at Nursery Studios, before being expanded collaboratively by the band at Decoy Studios and engineered by Toby Wood. Final overdubs and mixing with producer/engineer Erik Jordan bring the vision into sharp focus - from sweeping symphonic passages to intricate rhythmic sequences and haunting choral textures.

Praise for The Red Planet (2020):
“An astonishing return to form…Wakeman at his most imaginative”Prog Magazine
“A richly detailed symphonic rock journey”Classic Rock  

Wakeman needs little introduction. A central figure during his many years with Yes, he is also one of the most successful solo artists in progressive rock history, with a catalogue of over one hundred albums and global sales in the tens of millions. His career as a session musician includes landmark recordings with David Bowie, Elton John, Cat Stevens and many more, establishing him as one of the most distinctive keyboard voices of his generation.

Rick Wakeman Mars Return Mission Logo

RETURN TO THE RED PLANET WILL BE RELEASED ON MADFISH ON 16th OCTOBER, PRE-ORDER HERE: https://rickwakemanmadfish.lnk.to/Return_To_The_Red_Planet

For more information:
https://www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com/
www.rwcc.com
www.instagram.com/rickwakemanmusic
https://www.facebook.com/RickWakemanMusic
https://twitter.com/GrumpyOldRick
For more high-res images please see: https://www.madfishmusic.com/media/rickwakeman/

Madfish Logo

www.madfishmusic.com

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

Held By Trees To Release New Single ‘Not Home Yet’ from ‘The Call of Home’ featuring Simone Marie

Held By Trees - 'Not Home Yet' Thumbnail

New video ‘Not Home Yet’ premieres tomorrow on the official Held By Trees YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HeldByTrees

Held By Trees are set to release a new single ‘Not Home Yet’ on 17 July, ahead of new album ‘The Call of Home’ on 2 October 2026. Featuring Simone Marie formerly of Primal Scream, and currently with The Twilight Sad, the song is accompanied by a striking fanbase-created video.

David Joseph says of the song, “We enter the narrative of the new album with this song about feeling lost and claustrophobic in an urban environment, and longing for the safety of home. This is from the heavier section of the album before things get more peaceful and joyful, but it all works as journey.

I’m delighted to have Simone Marie working with us again, this time singing lead vocals for the first time, I think - which is a real honour. The video for the song was made out of clips sent in from followers of Held By Trees in cities all over the world”.

Simone Marie added, “I thoroughly love and enjoy the process of working with David and Held By Trees. He sent me demos of the new stuff and I felt a connection with it. I heard ideas and melodies  for what he sent me and he gave me confidence and space to find my own way to the parts I contributed. I’m really excited for the whole album to be out in the wild.”

‘The Call of Home’ is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed ‘Hinterland’ and finds the band exploring very different territory, with the album featuring nine tracks with vocals bookended with two more familiar instrumental takes, including for the first time on vinyl, Lay Your Troubles Down with Martin Smith. The album will be released by Tweed Jacket Music / Low Port Music on vinyl, CD and digital formats – but will be initially absent from streaming platforms as each track is released as singles. The striking original artwork, so important to Held By Trees, has been originated by @BlankEmbrace.

‘The Call of Home’ sees a broadening of personnel, with new musical collaborators with backgrounds as diverse as Radiohead and Primal Scream, to Wet Wet Wet and Delirious [Clive Deamer, Simone Marie, Graeme Duffin, and Martin Smith/Stu Garrard respectively]. With David Joseph once again are the core band of Robbie McIntosh, Laurence Pendrous, and Andy Panayi with their shared history with Mark Hollis and Talk Talk, among many others. Still at his side are James Grant and Grant Howard, continuing a friendship and musical partnership spanning over two decades now in various forms. David’s key musical mentors Martin Smith, Jason Upton and Eric Bibb take the vocal mic alongside Simone Marie and Marc James and, in a departure, David even sings a few himself.

David Joseph said, “I’ve made an album of songs with some of our friends singing. It’s a love letter to the music of the 80s and 90s, when I was a youngster falling in love with music through my parent’s records and cassettes, and what I heard on the radio and on Top of the Pops. It’s on the theme of coming home; to reunion, redemption and the warming of the heart through sounds and stories.

This album is a labour of love on many levels, a branching out of what this project is and can be. Over nine songs, bookended with two instrumentals, I hope all who listen find their way home to an embrace that this music can offer the soul.”

Held By Trees is a journey in itself and ‘The Call of Home’ offers new sonic vistas to explore, whilst retaining the heart and hearth of what makes this band special.

Held By Trees - The Call of Home Cover

David Joseph Photo

Held By Trees LIVE

London – Chats Palace, Hackney
13th November 2026
Tickets: https://www.ticketsource.com/rondotheatre/held-by-trees/e-zpbqxm

Bath – Rondo Theatre
23rd January 2027
Tickets: https://www.ticketsource.com/rondotheatre/held-by-trees/e-zpbqxm

Chelmsford – Chelmsford Social Club
19th February 2027
Tickets: https://wegottickets.com/f/22318

Worcester – Huntingdon Hall
2nd April 2027
Tickets: www.worcestertheatres.co.uk

For more information: www.heldbytrees.co.uk

New video ‘Not Home Yet’ premieres tomorrow on the official Held By Trees YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HeldByTrees

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