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

Irreverent Rockers Ex Norwegian To Release 13th Album “Spook Du Jour”

Thirty minutes. A dozen songs. Ex Norwegian's album No. 13 brings it. Faithful to its tuneful and irreverent brand, the aptly named “Spook Du Jour” features the moody art rock of “Thot Patrol,” alongside tracks like “Burn It” and “Vicious Cycles” that can trace their influence back to Bowie and The Velvet Underground.

For 15 years, Ex Norwegian, with band mainstay Roger Houdaille, has been delivering quirky lyrics combined with an eclectic approach, while successfully resisting the momentary trends to create a more perennial sound.

“Spook Du Jour” is indeed another win for their catalog with plenty of choice cuts - from the driving glam-meets-Krautrock of “For Your Conveniences” to the Bolan-esque charmer “Ciancia.” On an early 90’s alt-rock mixtape, “Teen Bakery” wouldn’t be out of place.

The albums’ straightforward instrumentation and organic arrangements create a vintage rock vibe with enough freshness and individuality to stand out.

At times, the melodies effortlessly stream out and chords go where they should. At other times, the album breaks out of the expected formulas with more adventurous compositions like “Paging Lisa” and the album's finale “Center Mario” reminding listeners that the band is not immune to oddity.

Released via Think Like A Key Music worldwide on CD, LP and streaming platforms.

TRACKLIST
Teen Bakery
Vicious Cycles
Ciancia
Burn It
Airlash
Thot Patrol
Paging Lisa
Crazy Paving
Fresh ATM
For Your Conveniences
Save For No Future
Center Mario

ABOUT EX NORWEGIAN

An arcane and adventurous indie rock band that mixes classic songwriting with popsike, garage prog and power-pop hailing from sunny Miami Beach are unlikely contenders to be named after a Monty Python sketch; yet the musical collective Ex Norwegian indeed are. The band is led by founder Roger Houdaille, who is responsible for their effortlessly catchy songs spanning across a constant stream of DIY releases. Drawing inspiration from the likes of the Kinks, Badfinger to Amon Düül 2, Family – the music and ethos of the 60s & 70s lives and breathes in their extensive catalog – from retro slacker garage jams, to quirky, deconstructive pop songs.

To purchase: https://exnor.band/spook-bl

For more information:
Website: https://www.exnorwegian.com
Socials: https://linktr.ee/exnorwegian
Radio: robb@shineonpromo.com
Label: roger@thinklikeakey.com

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

Prog Ensemble Star People To Release 20 Year Old Lost 3rd Album With Bonus Reunion 4th Album “Black Tie & Tales”

Album number 3, “Black Tie & Tales” would tie up neatly the heart-rending, while funny, story of the first “Star People” to trace the “SACRED SIGNAL” to its home planet. The new songs (Lorenza, watching “Dream Theater” perform their headline set once in Florida, said to bassist Randy Pratt “We need more gratuitous soloing”.) Dry sarcasm aside, when you’re right, you’re right. There’s more effort to highlight the band’s chops on #3 and some of their most sophisticated songwriting and lyrics. The future looked bright. Then, a series of the classic show biz brick walls were hit; unscrupulous management, personal tragedies and career choices…just like THAT it was over. Members adapted on so quickly, moving to other bands, moving to other states, there was barely any time to contemplate the masterpiece sitting, complete but for mastering, left behind in the studio vaults.

…UNTIL NOW! PEOPLE OF EARTH, BEHOLD! THE RETURN OF “STAR PEOPLE…Black Tie & Tales” a DOUBLE album in the era of singles only, where the hook must appear in 15 seconds or listeners attention drift back to their I-Phones, we give you an epic return to CLASSIC, BRAIN MELTING SCI-FI Progressive rock.

Double CD with turn-of-the-millennium remastered originals plus a whole second CD with new songs for 2021 with award-winning musicians on the roster!

Featuring:
Bill Olland “The Teacher”
Lorenza Ponce “Star Girl”
Paul Gifford “Golden Boy”
Phil Weiss “The Helmsman”
Randy Pratt “The Ambassador”
Robert Dean “The Captain”
Scott Treibitz “The Doctor”

For more information, a beautifully illustrated comic explaining the Star People story, videos, photos and past reviews, like us at Hyperspace Records Facebook page, then take the link to our website to listen to all four Star People albums, FREE!:
www.HyperspaceRecords.com
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063462463840

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

Krautrock Legends Guru Guru Release “Made In Switzerland - Official Bootleg”

Krautrock Legends Guru Guru Release “Made In Switzerland - Official Bootleg”

50 years of Guru Guru - that's 50 years of Krautrock!

If you hadn't believed possible that Mani Neumeier (born 1940) and his GURU GURU still rank among Germany's most active and prolific rock bands, well, then you’d be proven wrong!

Founded in 1968, the year of the student's revolt, Guru Guru has reached its 50th anniversary and still maintains its innovative spirit. Where many a musician made it big as a one-hit-wonder just to fade into oblivion soon after, Guru Guru carved its way outside the mainstream and short lived trends by blending experimental rock, avant-garde, jazz and world-music into an unique, original form of Rock 'n' Roll.

No one will deny that there were ups and downs, but nowadays, Mani shares the stage with two long-standing companions. Roland Schaeffer and Peter Kühmstedt have been with Guru Guru for more than 40 years. The passing of Hans Reffert, aged 69 († 21.02.2016), was a severe blow, but Guru Guru overcame this tragedy and proved that they are not in the least tired of creating music. Those four “Krautrockers” are living legends and next to the Rolling Stones among the longest-serving rock bands on this planet. Mani and Mick are in fact standing next to each other in the Tokyo House of Wax! Mani Neumeier and his Gurus are the epitome of a band that defies musical trends and fads and transcends limitations and genres.

When the Covid pandemic struck, all activities came to an abrupt halt and led to guitar player Jan Lindqvist leaving the band. But Guru Guru reinvented themselves yet again by adding a whole new dimension to the band's sound: Zeus B. Held, former keyboard player in Birth Control joined the outfit and gave songs like “Moroso” or the fabled “Elektrolurch” a whole new level by his energetic virtuoso style. To document this milestone in the Guru Guru’s development, a concert in Switzerland was recorded and subsequently released on CD in a small edition to allow rock aficionados worldwide a glimpse into Guru Guru 2022. No overdubs, no digital “cheating” was done on this album “Made In Switzerland - Official Bootleg”. It is a statement of the rock 'n' roll feeling an experienced live act with 4 seasoned musicians at their peak can deliver on stage! This CD will not be available through any distribution channels other than directly from the band. No amazon, no streaming and no distribution company between Guru Guru and their loyal fans

After more than 50 years they continue to go their own way because they've always been - and still are UNIQUE!

Musicians:
Mani Neumeier - Drums / Percussion / Kaossilator / Vocals
Roland Schaeffer - Guitar / Saxophon / Nadaswaran / Vocals
Peter Kühmstedt - Bass / Vocals
Zeus B. Held - Keyboard / Bluesharp / Vocals

Discography:
1970 UFO
1971 Hinten
1972 Känguru
1973 Guru Guru
1974 Der Elektrolurch
1974 Don’t Call Us, We Call You
1974 More Hot Joice
1974 Dance Of The Flames
1976 Tango Fango
1976 Rattenfänger
1977 Globetrotter
1978 Guru Guru Live
1979 Hey Du!
1979 Giri Fushi
1980 Mani in Germani
1983 Neumeiers neue Abenteuer
1987 Cosmic Hole
1988 Jungle
1988 Guru Guru 88
1988 Guru Guru Live 72
1993 Shake Well
1995 Wah Wah
1997 Moshi Moshi
1999 Live ‘98 - 30 Jahre Finkenbach (3 CDs)
2000 2000 Gurus
2005 In The Guru Lounge
2008 PSY- 40 Jahre Guru Guru
2009 Live On Tour 2008
2011 Doublebind
2013 Electric Cats
2014 45 Years Live (CD & LP)
2016 Live in Heidelberg (DVD & BluRay)
2018 Rotate!
New Releases:
2019 Live in China CD + DVD
2021 Made in Switzerland - official bootleg
2022 “New Album tba”

To purchase:
Digital: https://guruguru1.bandcamp.com/releases
CD: https://www.discogs.com/de/sell/item/1753725982

For more information: http://mani-neumeier.de/guruguru/guru_10_shop.htm

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

Former Uriah Heep, Lone Star, Gary Moore Vocalist John Sloman To Release New Album “Two Rivers”

Gifted with a multi-octave vocal range and also a multi-instrumentalist musician, John Sloman is a renaissance man with a singular musical vision brought to mesmeric life on his magnificent new solo album “Two Rivers”. As a personal record, “Two Rivers” documents John’s journey from his childhood home city of Cardiff to treading the well-beaten path to London and his encounters in the music business fronting major headline bands.

“Two Rivers” is a compelling cocktail of songwriting that blends crucial chapters of John’s life in song and verse. In essence, “Two Rivers” is a distillation of Sloman’s eclectic musical progress from Lone Star to Uriah Heep, his adventures with UFO and The Gary Moore Band and his Todd Rundgren produced debut solo album “Disappearances Can Be Deceptive”. Adopting Cardiff's River Taff and London’s River Thames as metaphors, John’s stream of consciousness observations pour forth from his deep well of memories. Populated with sublime songs wrapped around sharply observed personal postcards of a remarkable life “Two Rivers” simply has to be heard to be believed.

Photo by Jeff Moh

This soundtrack to a life less ordinary begins with the title track’s prophetic opening lines: “Two rivers flow through my mind - the one I see before me and the one I left behind.” As John says: “The River Taff and the River Thames have come to personify this unrelenting tug of love I have experienced for most of my adult life. I left the one with a spring in my youthful step. But with so many of those who once walked beside me now gone to that great river in the sky, I regret all the days I was away. This album is for them – and for those of you still being torn in two by your own two rivers.”

This memorial theme is taken further on the new single “This River Is A Time Machine” that explores the memory bank simile of these constant yet fluid and life-giving channels delivered with a heartfelt passion by John. Revisiting his childhood on the song “Scenes From An Old Biscuit Tin,” John explains the song’s inspiration: “On school mornings, as I ate my porridge, I would lose myself in images of Elizabethan London adorning the family biscuit tin, while dreaming that I might one day go there – London, that is.” And going to London is exactly what John did, which he superbly documents on “Londinium” and “Charing Cross Moon,” and achieving a substantial measure of success in doing so that established him as a major player in the late 70s and 1980s rock music scene and his continuing solo career. There is a pleasant surprise in store for fans of John Sloman with the Avant-Garde nature running right through this record. Think experimental Frank Zappa and late-period Scott Walker meeting the acoustic elements of Led Zeppelin and your imagination will be stoked by the captivating contents of this unique and exceptional album.

Two single releases “This River Is A Time Machine” followed by “The Last Coalminer” have non-album B sides and both are accompanied by videos for each single release.

Release date: March 25, 2022

“Two Rivers” track list:

1-Two Rivers
2-This River Is A Time Machine
3-Caerdydd (City On The River)
4-Scenes From An Old Biscuit Tin
5-From The Taff To The Thames
6-Londinium
7-Blackweir
8-When I Go Home
9-Rest In Peace (For Sylvy)
10-Charing Cross Moon
11-70s Sunday
12-Walking Along The Ta13-The Last Coalminer
14-Farewell To London Town

To pre-order: https://music.apple.com/album/two-rivers/1607563545

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/johnslomanofficial/

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

Guitarist/Composer Alex Anthony Faide To Release Long Awaited Solo Album “Particles of the Infinite” Featuring King Crimson’s Pat Mastelotto On 7d Media March 18, 2022

“AAF plays my guitar parts better than I do.”  - Robert Fripp

Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Guitarist/Composer Alex Anthony Faide has a decades-long international reputation for being the secret weapon in rock recordings, arrangements, and stage productions in Europe and Latin America. Now based in Seattle, WA, Faide will release his long-awaited solo record – “Particles of the Infinite” – a display of guitar pyrotechnics in nine parts, in March 2022 on Trey Gunn’s label 7d Media. Inspired by and developed from concepts found in songs such as King Crimson’s “Fracture” and “Lark’s Tongues in Aspic,” Faide takes the work beyond the stratosphere into the mirror dimension to find something completely his own. In the words of his mentor Robert Fripp, “AAF plays my guitar parts better than I do.”  

Faide spent 2017-19 touring, songwriting, and arranging, with Mexican hard rock heroes Molotov on their MTV Unplugged Show “El Desconecte” and as a sideman for Molotov front man Tito Fuentes’ acclaimed solo record “El Ocaso.” He is currently working on a new project with legendary German producer/songwriter Uwe Fahrenkrog-Petersen, founder and main composer for the band Nena.  

Faide is the co-founder of cherished 3rd wave surf rock band, Los Twang! Marvels, in addition to Los Gauchos Alemanes/Electric Gauchos. He has also worked with artists including Markus Reuter, Namgar, Willie Campins, Crystal Beth, TROOT, Kathy Moore, Tiny Orchestral Moments, Los Primitivos, and Lutz Petersen, among countless others.

Says Alex, “It is difficult to determine the true origin of this work, though it stands undeniably as a tribute to my guitar instructor, life mentor, and friend, Robert Fripp. Ideas and compositions started taking shape in April 2016 in response to a challenge set forth by long-time collaborator and life brother Steve Ball (League of Crafty Guitarists, Electric Gauchos, Prometheus) to come up with my own version of King Crimson’s ‘Fracture’ and ‘Lark’s Tongues in Aspic.’ Mr. Fripp’s writing and guitar work in these monumental pieces strike me as expertly unique blends of influences in contemporary electric guitar repertoire, which inspired me to dive deeply into my own voice and personal practice to accept the challenge issued.

“What sparked my interest the most was the notion of a fierce, heavy rock attitude and sound, executed with pristine precision in a contemporary classical music tradition on an electrified instrument. I am mesmerized by the section of “Fracture” known as “Perpetuum Mobile” and with the guitarist’s capacity to execute intricate parts in an effortless fashion with a triangular plectrum. The challenge to evoke such intricacy seems to me both impossibly fragile and risky.

“Once the embryonic emergence of ‘Particles of the Infinite Parts I through III’ began to take shape, it became clear this was going to be a full-length record and require a full nine parts to complete the body of work I set out to explore. ‘Particles of the Infinite’ sums up 30 years of personal development and research on the guitar, derived and gleaned from direct guitar instruction as part of Guitar Craft, and the live practice of experiencing life as an international touring musician in myriad genres and settings. I traveled almost monthly between Argentina, Mexico, and the US from 2017-2019, developing this work between shows and collaborations, in hotel rooms and airbnb’s, with recordings intermittently in Seattle when the moment allowed.”

The 9 frameworks that make up “Particles of the Infinite” are presented in triptych (Pt. I-III / Pt. IV-VI / Pt. VII – IX) each containing particular techniques (alternate and cross-picking, stamina, release and flow for the left hand, exploration of diminished /symmetric scale relationships, rhythmic displacement & vector harmonization) - and interpretations of various themes, motifs and passages. There are many convergences imprinted in the music, playing style and overall tone.

Says Alex, “Obviously part of the material stands as a tribute to Fripp, however I am always pushing towards my own musical horizon and following the demands of the Muse. I hear it as ‘gold panning’ in musical form. One could arguably call this record “just a fancy collection of chops”…and I would happily agree with that. But I regard these techniques and interpretations as a cross-pollinating and ever-evolving body of work that points to a larger idea in the ever-expanding continuum of the electric guitar. Above all, these techniques are simply a means to an end, the end being the ability to let music speak freely and continually in real time.

“It’s interesting to experience the evolving arc throughout the whole record start to finish, personally it represents a sort of a surprising navigation chart helping me (and hopefully the listener as well) to find a center of gravity amidst the storm. May the Higher Powers grant Us the Patience to endure and the Strength to persevere. As they say: Ad Astra per Aspera.”

photo by Karen Moskowitz

“Particles of the Infinite” Track list:
Pt. I (04:06)
Pt. II (04:31)
Pt. III (05:50)
Pt. IV (04:37)
Pt. V (11:05)
Pt. VI (03:18)
Pt. VII (03:38)
Pt. VIII (06:28)
Pt. IX (06:11)

All tracks composed and performed by Alex Anthony Faide on electric guitar and bass.

Guest drummers:
Matt Chamberlain (Pt. I & VI)
Pat Mastelotto (Pt. II)
Alessandro Inolti (Pt.III, IV, V, VII & VIII)

Recorded at SoundVision Studios (Seattle)
Mixed by Jonathan Plum / London Bridge Studios (Seattle)
Mastered by Brian Lucey / Magic Garden Mastering (LA)

Release Date March 18, 2022

To purchase: https://alexanthonyfaide.bandcamp.com/album/particles-of-the-infinite

For more information:
Official website: www.alexanthonyfaide.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alex.a.faide
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instrofreak/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlexAnthonyFaide

7DMedia: www.7dmedia.com

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

NYC CBGB Legends The Shirts’ Arthur Lamonica’s New Group Rome 56 To Release New Album “Days Of Carefree Living”

NYC based singer-songwriter Arthur Lamonica’s latest album with his new group Rome 56 reengages his catchy and smart tunes reflecting his signature sound. Since the 1970s, the songs he’s penned and performed, including a CBGB jukebox favorite - The Shirts “Tell Me Your Plans” - have inspired countless fans worldwide. Fast-forward to 2022, and his dozen songs on “Days Of Carefree Living” focus on a tight pop rock sound as its title track suggests.

Dive deeper into the album and the sound shifts by offering some gentle, folksy tunes like “A Happy Man” and “It’s Raining in Paris.” Hints of Lamonica’s former band reverberate in the sounds of retro rock on “In This Place” as well as his bluesy “As I Stroll Through The Night.” The home recording mode (due to lockdowns) makes it a fun, homespun affair.

The band with Arthur’s wife Kathy Lamonica as the main contributor in keyboards and vocals, will be back on the road in 2022 with tour dates across the UK and Europe, specifically the Netherlands where Lamonica’s sound continues to gain popularity.

Limited edition digifile CD pressing.

TRACKLIST
Days Of Carefree Living
Dirty Money
Platinum Girl
The Girl From Outer Space
Stranger On A Train
As I Stroll Through The Night
A Happy Man
On Portobello Road
Coffin Song
The Lime Cafe
In This Place
It's Raining In Paris

To purchase: https://tlak.rocks/rome56

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/rome56.arthurlamonica/
https://twitter.com/rome56
https://rome56.com/

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

Iona’s Dave Bainbridge Releases 4th Solo Album “To The Far Away”

Despite all the traumas and uncertainties of 2020, it turned out to be a very busy year for Dave Bainbridge. As well as producing the epic 17 CD “Book of Iona” box set celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Iona, Dave contributed in various degrees to new albums by Kimmo Porsti, Cronofonia, Downes Braide Association, Lifesigns, Nick Fletcher, Glass Hammer, Celtish and Strawbs. However, in between all this activity Dave was also taking time out to put together the concept and music for his 4th solo album, “To The Far Away.”

Iona fans might recognize the title as a quote from the lyrics of the song “Edge of the World” from “Beyond These Shores” and there are definitely parallels in the themes of the two albums. “Shores” recounts the ancient story of St Brendan’s epic voyage across the Atlantic ocean, whilst “To The Far Away” tells a more contemporary story of lovers on opposite sides of the Atlantic ocean, separated for many months by the global pandemic. Both albums, however, end on a note of optimism. Brendan finally returns safely home, whilst our contemporary lovers are finally reunited after an epic trip across the same ocean.

The album’s 71 plus minutes of music draws upon the Celtic, progressive, rock and classical influences that have permeated Dave’s music since he started composing at the age of eleven and which he honed during his years with Iona and through his previous solo and many collaborative releases. Featuring his usual array of keyboards, guitars and assorted acoustic instruments, Dave also assembled a fantastic group of supporting musicians to bring the project to life:
Sally Minnear (Lord of the Dance / Celestial Fire) - Vocals  
Iain Hornal (Jeff Lynn’s ELO, 10CC, Three Friends, solo artist) - Vocals
Troy Donockley (Iona / Nightwish / The Enid / Maddy Prior) - Uilleann Pipes, Whistles, Voices Jon Poole (Cardiacs / Lifesigns) - Bass Guitars
Frank van Essen (Iona / Martin Garrix) - Drums, Violins & Violas
Jonas Pap (Epica, Cronofonia) - Cello
Nigel Cameron (Celtish) - Whistles
Julie Cameron-Hall (Celtish) - Violin
Martin Nolan (Iona) - Whistles  

Dave collaborated with acclaimed Canadian/Irish poet Lynn Caldwell on the album’s lyrics. “I’d read some of Lynn’s work and immediately felt that she would be the person to help me organize and bring an emotional focus to my thematic and lyrical ideas for the project. It was a hunch that paid off and I’m absolutely thrilled with what she came up with. Lynn, her husband Martin Nolan and friend Una Ní Cheallaigh were also able to put together the haunting Irish Gaelic lyrics, sung by Sally, which I’d wanted to include on several tracks.”  

Dave continues: “As with many artists and composers I know, 2020 was a bittersweet year. The complete shutdown of venues left us without places to play and income, but also paradoxically gave us the time and space to write, record and bring to fruition projects we may not have otherwise got around to finishing. For me it was especially bittersweet as I was due to be married at the end of March 2020 to Sharon, my fiance from Baltimore, on Cruise to the Edge, with my friends Neal Morse officiating and John Young (Asia/ Scorpions/Lifesigns) as best man. Not only was that plan put on hold, the abrupt shutdown of flights into the USA meant that Sharon and I were torn apart for 8 1/2 months. The thematic ideas behind ‘To The Far Away’ encompass thoughts, feelings and ideas I experienced, largely when I was doing my daily runs and walks on the rural country lane on which I spent so much time between March and October 2020.”

“As the music for this album evolved, I realized that the main emphasis was firmly on melody. Melodic lines and riffs that will hopefully stay with the listener, reflecting the emotions and sense of place in which I was immersed, as the seasons moved through spring, to summer and finally the rich colors of autumn under the vast skies of the Lincolnshire landscape. In some ways this is probably my most personal album to date and I hope that, as well as capturing some of the heartache of the time, it also leaves the listener with a sense of hope and optimism, that in the end, love will triumph.”

Despite being released late in 2021, “To The Far Away” still sneaked into a number of Best of 2021 Polls: No. 1 Best Album, Album of the Month, Cover Feature, iO Pages Magazine (Netherlands) No. 2 Best Album of 2021 Progressive Rock Central
No. 2 Best Album of 2021 Esther’s Rock Blog
No. 2 Best Album of 2021 Scotland Rocks Radio
No. 6 Best Album of 2021 Amarok Magazine (France)
No. 13 Best Album of 2021 Sonic Perspectives
Album of the Month Radio Xymphonia
In addition, Dave was voted 3rd in Prog Magazine Readers Poll Best Guitarist of 2021

Here’s what the press has raved about Dave Bainbridge’s “To The Far Away”:

“In my opinion, this is his best work ever! I hear great, uplifting, melodies, wonderful playing and excellent singing.” - Paul Rijkens iO Pages

“Absolute sonic perfection!!!” - Chris MacIntosh WCWP Radio New York

“If you remember the band 'Iona' you will love this album. It's a masterpiece of Celtic Prog Rock.” - Nigel Cameron - Celtish

“To The Far Away, just might be, well - the best thing he’s ever done – and with his years of output that’s saying a lot… A brilliant balance of vocal and instrumental tracks, To The Far Away will thrill and delight fans of both Celtic and ‘traditional’ prog-rock, and anyone open to more adventurous realms of music in general…If you’re a fan of Iona, Dave Bainbridge’s solo work, Celtic prog, classic prog-rock – whatever!  You need this.” - Bert Saraco - tollbooth.org

“‘To the Far Away’ is a wonderful journey of the mind, full of captivating music throughout. This album is one of the best albums of 2021. It is definitely in the top ten progressive rock albums of the year…Please get this album, relax and enjoy the journey. Every song is captivating and full of the kind of music that made Iona famous.” - Professor Mark, Progressive Rock Central  

“To get straight to the point, the music is of great, if not exceptional, class…the melodies Bainbridge presents us on this album are of very great, I repeat, very great beauty…It seems as if Dave has found the balance between say Celestial Fire (the symphonic) and the Celtic influences...There are not only great guitar solos on this record, but also wonderful keyboard moments...the more you play ‘To The Far Away,’ the better it gets. I could go on and on, but I think it is clear that lovers of atmospheric symphonic music have a pearl in their hands with this album. This is hashtag #heavenly.” - Jacco Stijkel - www.progwereld.org

Dave Bainbridge “To The Far Away” was released on Dave’s Open Sky Records label & distributed by Gonzo Multimedia, the album is available in 5 formats:
*DIGITAL DOWNLOAD 24 bit wav files
*SINGLE CD
*2CD WITH BONUS DISK featuring over an hour’s worth of alternate mixes, demos and previously unreleased tracks recorded exclusively for this release
*2CD AS ABOVE, SIGNED BY DAVE
*LIMITED EDITION DELUXE PHOTO BOOK featuring the 2CD version, accompanying A4 size hardback book of 123 of Dave’s evocative landscape photos, 6 postcards of Dave’s photos & a signed and numbered certificate.

To purchase: www.musicglue.com/iona

For more information: www.davebainbridgemusic.com

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

Bay Area Rock Songstress KARNEY Offers Fresh Originals with New Versions of Old Favorites on Her Latest Release GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL

Featuring Bill Ortiz of Santana and Jim Bogios of the Counting Crows

San Francisco, CA – Throughout her storied music career, Anna Karney has performed across the country and released an incredible catalog of chart topping and critically acclaimed singles, EPs, and albums. Now with her San Francisco-based band KARNEY is set to release GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL on February 18, 2022, an exciting new collection of KARNEY originals along with some freshly conceived versions of old favorites.

GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL was recorded at East Bay Recorders in Oakland, CA, and produced by Anna Karney and Michael Rosen (Rancid, Tesla). Featured performers include Bill Ortiz (Santana, Tony Toni Tone) on trumpet; Jim Bogios (Counting Crows) on drums; James Deprato (Chuck Prophet Band) on guitar; Kevin White (Chuck Prophet Band) on bass; and longtime Karney band drummer Jeff Herrera. Offering a message of hope in uncertain times on the title track “Gonna Be Beautiful,” Anna Karney encourages her listeners to not get discouraged and to keep moving towards a kinder, inclusive, and happier world as she sings “Turn on the light / Keep the vision in plain sight / Bring it all into focus.” Also coming soon is an official music video for the track to be released later in 2022.

Keeping her mind on social justice and positive messages, Anna Karney’s lyrical content offers a sardonic and sometimes straightforward approach to many of the issues facing people today. Her musical influences include Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Patti Smith, John Lennon, Sheryl Crow, Chrissie Hynde, and Joni Mitchell. As an arranger, pianist, and guitarist, she has worked with artists such as George Clinton, Linda Perry, and Dennis Bovell.

Songs from the last KARNEY EP release Better received stellar airplay on Triple-A and Americana radio stations, including the title track and her powerful cover of “Ramble On,” one of Anna Karney’s favorite Led Zeppelin songs. She then released a series of singles throughout 2021, including her personal and heartfelt original track “Be Together,” and a cover of the Neil Young classic “Heart Of Gold.”

To create the “Be Together” single, KARNEY band musicians worked from individual studios to assemble their parts and build the track. Singer/guitarist Anna Karney, bassist Kevin White and guitarist James DePrato all recorded tracks at their own home studios. Drummer Jeff Herrera created rough drum parts in his rehearsal studio and sent them to trumpet player Bill Ortiz, who then recreated them digitally. All the tracks were then sent to producer/mixer Michael Rosen, who finished the mix at his East Bay Recorders studio. Ironically, even though the single is titled “Be Together,” the musicians never were.  

Previous KARNEY releases include her 2018 album No Mercy; a series of singles from 2016, Manifest Destiny, Vol. 1 EP and Restless Wind, Vol. 2 EP; the 2012 album Love & Respect; the 2003 album All Connected; and her debut release Karney from 1999. Anna Karney has worked with producers and artists in the SF Bay Area such as Producer/engineer Mark Pistel (Michael Franti, Grace Jones, Chuck Prophet), Producer/Engineer Michael Rosen (Rancid, Tesla, Smashmouth, Santana, and Papa Roach), and Adam Munoz (Herbie Hancock, Dave Mathews, Branford Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Chester Thompson, and Lyle Lovett).

Anna Karney has had a diverse musical career, having spent many years composing music for games such as Star Wars Galaxies, Monkey Island IV, Armed and Dangerous, several SimCity titles, Metal Dungeon, Death Jr., and many more. She received the esteemed “Dreamcatcher” Award from the Visual and Performing Arts division of the San Francisco Unified School District for her work as a choral teacher and conductor for middle and high school students, as well as her contribution to the furthering of music education in the San Francisco public school system. Additionally, Anna Karney has scored ballet and modern dance pieces as an artist in residence at Mills College and San Francisco State University. She also composed her Opus 1 Chaconne Sur Sept for nationally renowned contemporary music group Earplay Ensemble.  

The KARNEY band has enjoyed several open-air concerts during Covid, giving vulnerable and at-risk populations the opportunity to enjoy live performance in a safe and relaxed way. Stay tuned for more live performances in 2022!

Visit the KARNEY website for more information: www.karney.org or https://karney.bandcamp.com

To order or stream GONNA BE BEAUTIFUL on digital services please visit: https://smarturl.it/KarneyBeBeautiful

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

For Radio inquiries please contact Peter Hay of Twin Vision Radio Promotion at TwinVision@aol.com

Art-Rock Ensemble Time Horizon To Release Third Album “Power of Three” Feat. Guest Appearance By Saga’s Michael Sadler

Time Horizon is a Northern California-based melodic art-rock influenced band with two highly acclaimed previously released albums the band has returned with a third album titled “Power of Three” on the Melodic Revolution Records label and is ready for distribution. The album is now available for pre-order in both CD & Digital formats and will be released in early 2022 with Vinyl to follow.

In early Spring, Time Horizon gave fans a sneak peek into “Power of Three” with the release of their first single; “Living for a Better Day” featuring a special guest appearance by legendary SAGA frontman Michael Sadler on vocals.

The band has added two permanent members to the roster since the release of Transitions in 2015, namely David Bradley Mau and Michael Gregory. Their contribution to the music can be heard in the evolving sound that is Time Horizon.

Founding members Ralph Otteson and Bruce Gaetke had brought on Allen White and Dave Miller to be able to tour the first release “Living Water”. Those two ended up staying for the next project “Transitions” and now again with “Power of Three”.

Power of Three line up:
David Bradley Mau: Lead vocals, supporting Keys
Ralph Otteson: Keyboards, Piano, Hammond Organ, and support vocals
Bruce Gaetke: Drums, support vocals, and lead vocals for “Razors Edge”
Allen White: Electric fretted and fretless bass guitars
@Dave Miller: Electric and acoustic guitars
@Michael Gregory: electric lead guitar and acoustic guitars.

Time Horizon Online:
Website: https://www.timehorizonmusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeHorizon/
Bandcamp: https://timehorizon.bandcamp.com/
Melodic Revolution: https://mrrmusic.com/project/time-horizon/

Melodic Revolution Records Online:
Website: https://mrrmusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelodicRevolutionRecords/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MelodicRevolutionRecordsMusic
Twiter: https://twitter.com/MusicIsOurVoice
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melodicrevolutionrecords/

Album art Ed Unitsky

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

Prog Ensemble Vast Conduit To Release Debut Album “Always Be There” February 16, 2022

Prog ensemble Vast Conduit featuring keyboardist/vocalist Bill Jenkins, best known for his work with Enchant and Thought Chamber, will be releasing their debut album “Always Be There” on February 16, 2022.

This album is dedicated to the notion of doing whatever we can to build and cherish all parent/child relationships, regardless of circumstance. There are so many different ways these can suffer – death, divorce, illness, self-centeredness, etc. – yet they are so vital to our happiness and well-being. Every moment we have to support each other and make each other's lives better is precious.

Says Bill, “The songs ‘Always Be There’ and also ‘Early Eclipse’ convey the main message of the album. The release date is the 40th anniversary of my father’s passing, which set in motion a path through life and philosophy described by the songs on the album. I had the basic song ideas in place for almost all of these songs sitting around for years and it was simply time to finally make it all happen.”

The Fates conspired and a fortuitous set of circumstances created a vast conduit, galvanizing what might have otherwise been a run-of-the-mill progressive rock project with an abundance of musical talent and prowess. Keyboardist Bill Jenkins (Enchant, Thought Chamber), musing over some material near to heart, enlisted the talents of these amazing musicians to bring that material to light: Adding everything from scorching leads to subtle emoting is virtuosic guitarist Michael Harris (Arch Rival, Thought Chamber, Darkology, Michael Harris Tranz-Fusion). Laying the foundation with solid grooves and making odd time signatures seem effortless and feel natural is drummer Will Jenkins (Ghost and the City, Great Wall). The venerable Jeff Plant solidifies that foundation with electric and fretless bass (also from Thought Chamber and whose pedigree otherwise is too long to list here and whose amazing bass playing simply speaks for itself). Adding just the right amount of smoke and fire off his rosined bow is violinist Jim Hurley (who has performed with the likes of Ritchie Blackmore, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Ancient Future, and Queen Ida’s Grammy-winning Bon Temps Zydeco Band, among many others). Rounding out the list are the satiny vocals of Friel (a truly rare gem of vocal talent to have somehow, somewhere, out of the blue, been found for this project).

With the players in place, a cross-country recording project began, finishing with Vast Conduit’s initial studio album release “Always Be There” - a centrally themed album that explores several musical genres. Although progressive rock in nature, when pressed for a singular genre, Michael jokingly suggested “smooth prog.” After the requisite laughter, the recognition of how apropos of a description it was settled in, and laughter shifted to nods of approval as it was fully embraced by the band.

The album started as just an EP project, and recording of 3 of the songs with demo vocals started several years ago. Then covid happened and opened up the opportunity and availability to expand it to a full album.

Along with the core ensemble, the album features some guest artists. Having known the California Guitar Trio guys for some time, and loving their sound, Bill had always hoped to get them involved in a song. Bert Lams agreed to add his acoustic guitar to “Early Eclipse,” and helped in adjusting the arrangement to work even better with the addition of his parts.

Bill’s brother Tom Abraira plays the lead on trumpet on the track “Philly Etymology.” There were two spots for a female voice on this album. Says Bill, “I heard Manon’s singing in High Hopes Acapella, and invited her to sing the female part in ‘Barrier.’ Having worked with Betsy Walter previously, I already had an earlier demo of ‘Early Eclipse’ with her voice in it and used her part from under the solo in that song and it fit perfectly.”

Finally, there was an old recording of the instrumental idea that became “Wesley Save Us” that had Jessica Jenkins’ voice when they were a toddler. “With Jess’s voice being my association with that song for so many years, and given the theme of the album, working a few of those samples in just had to happen.”

Work has already begun on writing for the next album. After the release, the band will look into opportunities for live performances. In closing Bill has this to say, “If our listeners enjoy the music even half as much as we enjoyed creating it, that would be amazing!”

Watch the trailer for Vast Conduit’s “Always Be There”: 

Track List:
1. Barrier 6:22 B. Jenkins, S. Spring (with lyrics)
2. Soul Tuck 5:10 B. Jenkins (instrumental)
3. Always Be There 5:49 B. Jenkins (with lyrics)
4. Endless Days 6:40 B. Jenkins, D. Ott (with lyrics)
5. Too Busy 5:45 B. Jenkins (instrumental)
6. Odessa 5:56 B. Jenkins (with lyrics)
7. 500 Miles 4:44 B. Jenkins, B. Walter (with lyrics)
8. Philly Etymology 5:39 B. Jenkins (instrumental)
9. Early Eclipse 6:59 B. Jenkins (with lyrics)
10. Of A Feather 5:01 B. Jenkins (instrumental)
11. Wesley Save Us 4:31 B. Jenkins (with lyrics)

Band Members:
Friel: Vocals
Bill Jenkins: Keys, backing vocals
Will Jenkins: Drums
Michael Harris: Guitars
Jeff Plant: Bass
Jim Hurley: Violin

Guest Artists:
Tom Abraira - Trumpet on “Philly Etymology”
Bert Lams - Acoustic Guitar on “Early Eclipse”
Manon Roem -Vocals on “Barrier”  
Betsy Walter - Vocals on “Early Eclipse”
Recorded at: The Zircon Cube, The Beige Area, and Psycho Sound East Mixed by: Bill Jenkins and Will Jenkins
Produced by: Bill Jenkins and Will Jenkins
Mastered by: Michael Romanowski at Coast Mastering, Berkeley CA
Artwork by: Jessica Jenkins

To purchase:
https://vastconduit.bandcamp.com/releases
https://www.vastconduit.com

For more information:
www.vastconduit.com
www.facebook.com/VastConduit/

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

Talk Talk, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, Blur Veterans Unite on Debut Album By Held By Trees Titled ‘Solace’

Held By Trees is a new instrumental project featuring some of the most respected musicians in the British rock fraternity. Sitting between post-rock and prog, the outfit led by David Joseph announces their debut album, ‘Solace’, which will be released in April 2022.

Boasting seven veterans of the seminal latter Talk Talk and Mark Hollis solo albums, other contributors include Tim Renwick (Guitar - Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Eric Clapton), Mike Smith (Sax - Blur, Damon Albarn, Gorillaz), David Knopfler (Guitar - Dire Straits founding member), Gary Alesbrook (Trumpet - Noel Gallagher, Kasabian, Super Furry Animals) as well as parts from blues/roots legend, Eric Bibb, Dutch rising-star, Just, and ambient composer, Unknown Replica.

After establishing themselves with pop hits such as ‘It’s My Life’ and ‘Life’s What You Make It’, Talk Talk, led by Mark Hollis and producer, Tim Friese-Greene, broke new musical ground, defining what would later be termed as ‘post-rock’ with their seminal album, ‘Spirit of Eden’ (1988). Three years later they returned with ‘Laughing Stock’. Part of that creative process was to invite musicians they respected in to improvise on their arrangements. Guitarist Robbie McIntosh (Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, John Mayer), drummer/percussionist Martin Ditcham (Chris Rea, The Waterboys, Nik Kershaw), bassist Simon Edwards (Michael Jackson, Billy Bragg, Fairground Attraction) all took part in those sessions, and have now contributed to ’Solace’. A solo record from Mark Hollis followed in 1998 which featured pianist Lawrence Pendrous, and flautist/Clarinettist Andy Panayi, both of whom have also now played for Held By Trees. Engineering all of these albums, as well as classics like John Martyn’s 'One World’, is Phill Brown, with Denis Blackham mastering them. Phill and Denis have kindly come out of retirement to mix and master this debut album from Held By Trees.

‘Solace’ was made using a similar approach to ‘Spirit of Eden’ and ‘Laughing Stock’, with David Joseph inviting musicians to improvise over his rhythm patterns and chord progressions. Blending in his own spontaneous compositions and field recordings made in Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset, the result is a unique album that carries the DNA of the seminal Talk Talk records, and yet stands in its own identity.

‘Solace’ is a work that revels in the natural world. At once both melancholic and hopeful, the album is purposefully full of space, tension and release, and music that demands patient listening. The project celebrates nature, not just through the music and artwork (including a motif from Talk Talk’s artistic partner, James Marsh), but by partnering with Play It Green, a real tree is planted for each album sold. Held By Trees thereby removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it produces.

All told, Held By Trees begins its career with an impressive first album project with unique claims and a tantalizing cast of contributors.

‘Solace’ is released on 22nd April 2022 on Tweed Jacket Music through Nova/Plastic Head Distribution

Pre-order: https://mellotone.net/products/held-by-trees-pre-order

Social Media links:
https://www.facebook.com/heldbytrees
https://www.instagram.com/heldbytrees/
https://twitter.com/heldbytrees

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

Historic First Ever Live Concert From Classic Rock Legends CACTUS Finally Sees An Official Release!

Los Angeles, CA - This is where it all began for the quartet dubbed “The American Led Zeppelin” - on a 1970 bill that also featured the likes of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Grateful Dead and Steve Miller Band. Vocalist Rusty Day, guitarist Jim McCarty, bassist Tim Bogert, and drummer Carmine Appice, collectively known as Cactus, made their auspicious debut in their very first public performance that night. Fortunately, this stunning and historic show was captured on tape and has now been unearthed from the archives and released on all formats!

The Birth Of Cactus 1970 finds the freshly minted quartet ripping through some of the key tracks from their landmark debut album including “Parchman Farm,” “Feel So Good” and “No Need To Worry” plus some smokin’ hot blues numbers. The performances are not only supremely confident, but also fluid and dynamic as each member locks into the groove and relentlessly rides it.

Drummer Carmine Appice had this to say about the concert recording, “I remember doing that first gig, hanging out with Hendrix who was a friend of Cactus. We got on stage and the energy level was off the charts! All the songs kicked major ass. We were so excited to get Cactus going and this show helped. Crowd was great and we did ROCK!!”

The Birth Of Cactus 1970 will be available on digipak CD and on PURPLE vinyl everywhere on January 21st!

Order the CD/Vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/store/?s=birth+of+cactus&post_type=product

Stream/download the digital version: https://orcd.co/cactus_the_birth_of_cactus_1970

Track List:
1. One Way...Or Another
2. Sweet Sixteen
3. No Need To Worry
4. Medley: Let Me Swim / Big Mama Boogie / Oleo
5. Feel So Good
6. Parchman Farm

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

CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

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Eclectic Music Duo The Gong Farmers Release New Album “Guano Junction”

Featuring Mark Graham and Andrew Keeling (Robert Fripp, David Cross, Tim Bowness) with Guests David Jackson (Van der Graaf Generator), Alex Che (Modern Eon, Che), Cliff Hewitt (Modern Eon, Apollo 440) and others!

The Gong Farmers are principally two musicians, Mark Graham (vocals, synths and guitar) and Andrew Keeling (classical guitar, piano, organ and flute), along with friends and colleagues. Formed in 2018 following a visit to an Irish Castle, the band name was suggested by reading about the activities of the medieval gong farmers.

From 2020 to 2021 the band worked on a second album, “Guano Junction”. Continuing both the connective thematic elements and themes of love and loss found on the first album, “Ship of Fools”, released in 2019, “Guano Junction” explores darker areas of musical and human experience. Alongside Mark Graham and Andrew Keeling (Robert Fripp, David Cross, Tim Bowness) it features David Jackson (Van der Graaf Generator), Alex Che (Modern Eon, Che), Cliff Hewitt (Modern Eon, Apollo 440), Noko (Apollo 440), Martin Walker (Nth Ascension, Thruaglas Darkly), Brian Taylor (This Is Awkward, Thruaglas Darkly), Ricardo Odriozola (Judge Smith), Dutch percussionist Rene Van Commenee and guitarist Ben Keeling.

As far as the meaning behind the Gong Farmers new album, Andrew Keeling has this to say, “There is little actually visible but, as in ‘Ship of Fools,’ there are allusions to love and loss lying just beneath the surface. The title was conceived by Mark mainly in response to Sue Keeling’s cover painting.” Mark Graham also commented, “The title came in a flash. It’s perfect for a band of disparate and physically distanced musicians bringing all kinds of musical influences and trading as the Gong Farmers.”

“Guano Junction” came from songs and pieces which had lain dormant for some period of time. For example, before leaving the UK for Ireland, Andrew wrote and recorded several small-scale classical guitar loops and piano pieces. Unlike some of his longer classical pieces, these small-scale pieces were difficult to place because, in effect, they were sonic sketches for something unknown. When Mark suggested that they might consider a second album, these pieces were some of the first to be utilized.

Says Andrew, “Mark usually writes the songs and I concentrate on the pieces but, unlike ‘Ship of Fools’, here there was an inversion. Also, we were most fortunate to have input from friends. Alex Che and Cliff Hewitt – both formerly with Modern Eon – did a huge amount to make the album what it is. Noko 440 wrote a splendid string arrangement for ‘Pip, Squeak and Wilfred’ – a song inspired by Mark’s chance discovery of his father’s war medals – and David Jackson, who’d played on ‘Ship of Fools’, provided fine sax playing. My former band colleagues from Thruaglas Darkly, Martin Walker and Brian Taylor, gave their time selflessly and Ricardo Odriozola, Rene Van Commenee and my grandson, Ben Keeling, wrote and played on other pieces. As previously implied, nor is it just Mark and I who are the writers: we encourage all those collaborating at any one time to have a free hand in the writing process.” In the end, the duo had more songs/music than they used.

In closing Andrew has this to say about the album, “Beyond the general concepts of love and loss, each listener is likely to project their own meaning onto the music. Besides, each song concerns itself with a different subject.” Mark adds, “I’d like to thank listeners for their time and attention and I hope our music rewards repeated listening and finds a place in their hearts.”

Mark is currently writing new songs with a view to recording demos to present to the others for a possible third album.

Videos
“Dark Skies” - https://youtu.be/KRfohysX-gM
“Drive” - https://youtu.be/V9gupqpkbhk
“Vista de Toledo” - https://youtu.be/LcppI6xEl3M
“Strangeland” - https://youtu.be/eDZ8p7Au2vw

“Fluid and literate music, conjuring orchestral textures from small-group formats…it’s forging own definition of a strangeland of (the band’s) own design. Scarily impressive, Gong Farmers are heads ahead of most.” (RnR Magazine)

“A beautifully put-together and subtly varied album.” (Roots & Fusion)

Release date: December, 2021

To purchase CD:
spaceward.co.uk/product-page/guano-junction-the-gong-farmers
burningshed.com/the-gong-farmers_guano-junction_cd

To purchase Downloads:
gong-farmers.co.uk/guano-junction
thegongfarmers.bandcamp.com/album/guano-junction  

Website, FB pages, social media links:
gong-farmers.co.uk
facebook.com/GongFarmers  
andrewkeeling.co.uk
facebook.com/Andrew-Keeling-Music-373118492715410
facebook.com/UnquietEarth

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

Uriah Heep and Trapeze Ex-Lead Singer Peter Goalby Announces the First Release of His Long-Lost Solo Album ‘Easy with the Heartaches’ – Out Now!

Peter Goalby was the lead singer of Uriah Heep during the band’s classic Abominog era and also wrote their 1980s hit “Blood Red Roses.” He sang on the band’s albums Head First and Equator plus he’s also known for his time in Trapeze. Peter Goalby is now retired from the music industry.

After leaving the band, Peter Goalby recorded a number of solo songs, however, they were left unreleased until now. There has been constant speculation from fans on when they might hear the songs, given it was business reasons that precluded the release of the album at the time, but the way has now been cleared for the music to finally be heard.

The new artwork has been overseen and approved by Peter Goalby and its release has come about thanks to fans persistently pushing to hear these legendary lost recordings.

Peter Goalby said: “Finally, my best songs will be heard. Thirty years on. Never say never. I am so thrilled with my album release. I know I have a lot of friends out there who have wanted this day to arrive for many years. Thank you for sticking with me for all this time. I hope you love 'Easy With The Heartaches' as much as I do. Thank you.”

All the tracks were written by Goalby, except for three tracks co-written with Robin George. The vocal led style will appeal to Uriah Heep and Trapeze fans who have never stopped loving his voice.

To purchase:
Amazon CD: https://geni.us/EasyCD
Apple Music: https://geni.us/PGapplemusic
Spotify: https://geni.us/PGspotify

The album is also available from Cherry Red and all those orders come with a free hand-signed postcard: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/peter-goalby-easy-with-the-heartaches/

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

Blues Guitarist Brandon Teskey To Release Second Solo Album “Screaming Into The Void” November 25, 2021

Brandon Teskey is a blues guitarist, known most notably as the guitar player and songwriter of the blues rock band, Until the Sun. His music includes and often fuses elements of Blues, Fusion, Alternative Rock, Psychedelia, and Jazz.

Brandon’s forthcoming second solo album titled “Screaming Into The Void’ is an eclectic array of blues, rock, fusion, jazz, psychedelic, and alternative music that spans throughout an album with surprising twists and turns. Discontent with tired formulas, or being confined to a single genre, Brandon Teskey finds creative freedom in an album that breaks all the rules and lets the truth of the music speak for itself. Though the album features two songs with Brandon singing, and two songs with Alyssa Swartz (Until the Sun) singing, the mostly instrumental guitar driven album delves into a variety of styles exploring the expanse of musicianship and virtuosity the players have to offer.

Says Brandon, “I strove to create true musical artwork that spoke for itself. It encompassed many of my favorite musical genres, while still staying true to my blues rock roots.”

The album was recorded at Mind’s Eye Studio in Glendale Arizona. It was produced by Brandon Teskey and engineered by Larry Elyea. There are twelve tracks on the album. Most of the songs are original, however, it does feature a few covers including, “Side Tracked” by Freddy King, “Equinox” by John Coltrane, and “Autumn Leaves” by Joseph Kosma and Jacques Prevert.

Brandon assembled a world class group of musicians to play on the project. The personnel includes: Brandon Teskey, on Guitar and Vocals, Chris Tex (Until the Sun), on Drums, Jon Nadel (Marbin) on Bass, Will Kyriazis on Keyboard, Danny Markovitch (Marbin) on Saxophone and Alyssa Swartz on Vocals.

Brandon Teskey was born and raised in Southern California. At age 11 he began playing guitar and was exposed to Blues music shortly thereafter and became consumed with the playing of Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Albert King, Robert Johnson, Albert Collins, and T-Bone Walker, as well as Rock artists like Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, and Eric Johnson. Along with his obsession with guitar playing also came the obsession of songwriting and almost as soon as he had picked up the instrument, he began coming up with chord progressions and penning lyrics.

By the time Brandon was 15 years old, he had joined an established blues band with some members forty years his senior and by the time he was 16, he had played the prominent San Juan Capistrano venue, The Coach House, where he had seen many of his idols play as a kid. Brandon further developed his playing, becoming intrigued with the technical and harmonic sophistication of players like Scott Henderson, Robben Ford, and John Scofield and began studying the works of Jazz musicians like Charlie Parker, Wes Montgomery, Django Reinhardt, and Joe Pass.

Brandon moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University in the summer of 2003, studying Music and Philosophy. While attending ASU, he met Bruce Jensen where they formed their first Rock band, playing gigs all across the Phoenix valley. In 2011 Brandon and Bruce formed bluesy hard rock band ‘Corium’. The band released an EP and opened for many national performers across Arizona.

In 2017, Brandon released “The Chime”, a solo rock instrumental album which combined influences of Rock, Delta Blues, Electronic Rock, and Jazz. The same year Brandon, along with other bandmates, formed ‘Until the Sun’, which allowed Brandon to return to his Blues-Rock roots and opened new doors of creativity in his song writing and playing. In 2019 Until the Sun released their debut album, “Blackheart”, followed by their 2021 album, “Drowning in Blue”. Throughout 2021 Until the Sun played numerous shows and went on some small tours, despite the Covid lockdown.

In June of 2021, Brandon began recording his second solo album, “Screaming Into The Void”. Throughout the recording process, he pushed himself to the limits of his playing ability and the boundaries of his creativity to make true musical art. The mostly instrumental album defies the genre boundaries and includes rock, blues, fusion, psychedelic and jazz songs. Says Brandon, “I pushed myself beyond the limits of my playing and writing ability.”

To purchase:
http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1590500629?ls=1&app=itunes
http://itunes.apple.com/album/id/1590500629

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/people/Brandon-Teskey/100050206731848/

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