Clarence Clemons’ Guitarist/Vocalist Billy Livesay & The Livesays To Release New Album “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction”

Billy Livesay, best known for his work with E Street Band legend Clarence Clemons as his Guitarist & Vocalist, is releasing a new album with his group The Livesays, independently. The majority of The Livesays' new album “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction” was recorded in 2018 and was set to be released early in 2019. Tragically, on November 2nd, 2018, the band experienced unimaginable sorrow when their drummer, Eddie Zyne, passed away from a heart attack. Eddie, who began his illustrious career as the drummer in Hall and Oates, was an original co-founding member and integral part of The Livesays.

Eddie had been so excited about the upcoming release of The Livesays’ fourth album, particularly the new songs which showcased his solid metronome-like drumming style. Losing Eddie was not only a tremendous setback, it caused the band members to cancel all of their upcoming shows and contemplate calling it quits. Instead, the band persevered and, in turn, decided to dedicate this album to their fallen musical brother Eddie Zyne.

Finding a replacement for Eddie would prove to be no easy task as he left tremendous shoes to fill. In the Spring of 2019, along came Howard Goldberg, formerly of the indie funk band “Rudy.” Says Billy Livesay, “Howard knew us from playing around South Florida through the years. He was a tremendous fan of Eddie’s, knew of his passing, and asked if he could audition for us. Much to our surprise and delight, he turned out to be a great fit. He brought a revived energy to our band. We were back up and running in a few months."

The songs were recorded in Billy Livesay's home studio in Pembroke Pines, FL, mixed by Grammy nominated engineer Steve Gordon and mastered by Grammy winning engineer Mike Fuller at Fullersound in Ft Lauderdale. The original plan was to have the song “The Rhythm of Love” be the title cut, and the album was to include songs written and recorded over a two year period after the release of The Livesays' 2016 release “Hold On…Life Is Calling.”

Circumstances changed after losing Eddie. Turmoil set in due to ongoing political unrest, the upcoming election, protests, the Covid-19 pandemic, unemployment, isolation, and having to quarantine. The general feelings of uncertainty and uneasiness, and the ever-changing dysfunctional social and political climate, inspired some fresh new songs and a reevaluation as to which songs to release. Armed with twenty songs, the band narrowed it down to thirteen that reflected a congruent theme, which gave birth to the adjusted title “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction.”

Billy explains the meaning and inspiration behind the songs…
“When I Dream” - Everyone has some sort of aspiration; being successful playing music has always been mine. Even when the odds seem stacked against me, I have never given up on my dream. 'It may be a leap of faith but it's a leap I’m going to take, when I dream'. I’d be remiss if I did not mention that I wrote this song while mourning the loss of my bandmate Eddie Zyne who I know would be disappointed if his passing had led to the demise of the band and the end of my dream.

“Another Mile” and “Better Than You” - Many couples are quick to dissolve their relationships after disagreements. I view relationships as a constant work in progress. It’s hard for people to admit when they're wrong. Admittedly, it took me awhile, but I have learned to take the blame when I realize that I am wrong. I wrote the song "Another Mile" for my wife. It was my way of apologizing after an argument over something petty. My wife, Vicki, is also the inspiration behind the song “Better Than You.” She has stood by me and supported me throughout my career. Her mother once said that our “love affair was hanging on by a wing and a prayer.” To this day, I’m glad my wife “took that dare.”

“Can I Have (What You Have)?” -
This song was inspired by a newspaper article I read about a man convicted of armed robbery. In his own defense and to lessen his sentence, he blamed his own reprehensible behavior on having been raised by a father who beat him and a mother who was a drug addict. With pen in hand as I began crafting the lyrics, I happened to look out the window and noticed the sky had turned gray. I wrote down the line “looked out my window storm clouds coming, I don't know how long they will last.” I tasked myself with writing this particular song without a rhyming pattern, which is something that I don’t normally do.
We ended up recording this song at Power Station Studios, in Pompano Beach, FL and released a video of the recording session filmed and edited by Miami-based award winning film maker David Liz. Watch the video here:

“Book Of Rules” - One evening, while at a restaurant eating dinner, I witnessed a group of people acting asinine and causing a ruckus. The line “a jester holding court is something that I ain't” popped into my head and I wrote it down on a napkin. I went home and wrote a “Book of Rules,” a dark rocker with verses that are vignettes about how people seem to have their own codes by which they live.

“That's The Trouble With Love” actually started out as two separate songs. I was working on a song about a guy who experienced love at first sight after offering an umbrella to a girl in the rain, and another song intended to be called “Whole Lot of Trouble,” both of which included lyrics sent to me by a Nashville artist named David Graham with whom I have co-written multiple songs in the past. The concepts were similar in nature in both songs and blended together nicely into one acoustic song which sounds a bit Santana-esque.

“Better Than He Ever Was” is autobiographical in nature, but more so, it's a shout out to my musical peers who, like a fine wine, have improved with age. Too often in the entertainment industry, we are cast aside as we grow older, when in many cases, our maturity lends itself to a better, more polished performance.

“Let It Flow” is a song about addiction, inspired by a close friend’s father who was a train-riding hobo who was always down on his luck as a result of his alcoholism.

“The Rhythm Of Love” is a bluesy dance song about the magic and emotional power of love that sometimes takes control of our senses.

“There’s Something Coming Now” - My drummer and I co-wrote the lyrics to this song, inspired by the current dysfunction of our government, the upcoming election, the country-wide protesting, and overall sense of turmoil we are all feeling during the pandemic. With so much misinformation circulating, we’re all left wondering what’s coming next.

“How Can I Be?” was inspired by a close friend who went through a painful breakup with a domineering woman who cheated on him. It’s a song about love-gone-bad in a dysfunctional relationship that left a man questioning his own self-worth and trying to rediscover himself.

Billy explains why there are two cover songs on this album:
“Woodstock” - When the virus hit and I found myself quarantined, I was reflecting on how I was feeling about the current political state of the country. When the “Black Lives Matter” protests began, it reminded me of the vibe of the 60's movement and the public demand for civil rights and equality. This feeling prompted me to start noodling around with Joni Mitchell’s classic tune “Woodstock.” During a rehearsal, my bandmates and I put our own creative spin on the song. In celebration of the life and legacy of Ms. Mitchell, and because its subject matter fit in nicely with our other songs, we decided to record our version for our album.

“The Heart Of The Matter” - I have been told countless times over the years that my voice was reminiscent of Don Henley. By chance, shortly after Eddie’s passing, while The Livesays were on hiatus, I was asked to fill in for a few months with a touring Eagles tribute band called “The Long Run,” assuming the role of Don Henley. After I finished my stint with the tribute band, we had added Howard to our lineup and began playing out again. The guys in my band decided that we should cover “The Heart Of The Matter,” and it instantly became a fan favorite. It fit the theme of the songs we were compiling for our album, so we decided to record it. Since it has been thirty years since the original release of this monumental song, we opted to stay true to its original composition instead of putting our own spin on it.

Here's what the press has said about The Livesays:

“There is some exceptional music here. The sound of this really channels a lot of old school classic rock textures, but at times brings some modern elements to it. I really like this album a lot. There are no bad songs here at all.” - G. W. Hill Music Street Journal

“The kind of commercial classic rock that doesn’t make hipsters feel self conscious for liking this stuff, the voice, the tunes and the moves all merge into a swell stew of the rock we grew up with and still think is out there. Not only do you get some eloquent melodies on this disc, but you also get some thought- provoking material that will no doubt make an impact on you as a listener.” - Chuck Dauphin, Music News Nashville

“As singer/songwriter, lead guitarist and frontman for The Livesays, Billy Livesay, takes the pop-rock music art form to new heights with The Livesays 2016 Springsteen influenced release “Hold On … Life Is Calling.”  - Robert Silverstein - MWE3.com

“Hold On… Life Is Calling” delivers 13 chewy hunks of pop rock bliss. Without a doubt Billy Livesay has a terrific voice, impassioned and dramatic, and when it coincides with a suitably vast tune, the results are mesmerizing.” — Rocktologist.com

“Billy Livesay's soulful voice and deeply heartfelt lyrics make “Hold On …Life Is Calling” a must-have in any self-respecting classic rockers music collection” - Exclusive Magazine 

“Melodic rock fans should eat this one up. It’s an enjoyable album from a group of veteran musicians who have been around the block a time or two.” - SeaOfTranquility.org

UPCOMING PLANS-
The Livesays will release “The Heart of the Matter” as a video single on their YouTube channel and their Facebook page with a link in the caption to direct viewers to purchase a digital download of the song with a “name your price” option. Proceeds from the sale of the single will benefit the MusiCares Foundation, a charity that has provided more than $60 million in health, financial, and rehabilitation resources to fellow musicians in times of need. More info on the foundation: https://www.grammy.com/musicares.
The video link is here:

(launch 2pm, 8/05/20)

MP3 download will be available here: https://thelivesaysmusic.com/track/2434178/heart-of-the-matter

A pre-sale of the CD (signed hard copies and digital downloads) will begin on Monday, Aug. 10th, 2020. The official release date of the CD has been set for Sept 20th, 2020. As soon as it is safe for music halls and concert venues to reopen, The Livesays plan to tour in support of the release of “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction.” The band anxiously awaits getting back in front of live audiences where they shine.

In closing, Billy has this message to impart: “During these times of turmoil, isolation, quarantining, anxiety and uncertainty, what has pulled us through is love and music. While we all have our own problems, dysfunctions, shortcomings, and varying opinions, we are all human beings who basically have the same needs and desires. Hopefully the issues we have been facing lately will lead people to take less for granted, apologize quicker, listen more and talk less, smell more roses, and just be better, kinder people. Love may sometimes be ‘a whole lot of trouble,’ but love is definitely worth traveling ‘another mile.’

The Livesays’ lineup:
Billy Livesay - Guitar / lead vocals
Jorge Laplume - Bass / vocals
Howard Goldberg - Drums
Victor "Cuqui" Berrios - Organ / vocals
Tim Murphy- Piano / vocals

For more information:
Website: The Livesays www.thelivesaysmusic.com
Website: Billy Livesay www.billylivesay.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/TheLivesays
YouTube www.youtube.com/user/TheLivesaysMusic
Instagram www.instagram.com/TheLivesays
Twitter www.twitter.com/TheLivesays
ReverbNation www.reverbnation.com/TheLivesays
iTunes www.itunes.com/TheLivesays
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/411odDnocN1WzBbx1rwr8c
To purchase The Livesays’ Music:
The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/the-rhythm-of-love-and-dysfunction
Previously released albums:
Rose Colored Glasses www.thelivesaysmusic.com/rose-colored-glasses
Faith, Hope & Love www.thelivesaysmusic.com/faith-hope-and-love
Hold On... Life is Calling www.thelivesaysmusic.com/hold-on-life-is-calling

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

Clarence Clemons’ Guitarist/Vocalist Billy Livesay & The Livesays To Release New Album “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction”

Billy Livesay, best known for his work with E Street Band legend Clarence Clemons as his Guitarist & Vocalist, is releasing a new album with his group The Livesays, independently. The majority of The Livesays' new album “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction” was recorded in 2018 and was set to be released early in 2019. Tragically, on November 2nd, 2018, the band experienced unimaginable sorrow when their drummer, Eddie Zyne, passed away from a heart attack. Eddie, who began his illustrious career as the drummer in Hall and Oates, was an original co-founding member and integral part of The Livesays.

Eddie had been so excited about the upcoming release of The Livesays’ fourth album, particularly the new songs which showcased his solid metronome-like drumming style. Losing Eddie was not only a tremendous setback, it caused the band members to cancel all of their upcoming shows and contemplate calling it quits. Instead, the band persevered and, in turn, decided to dedicate this album to their fallen musical brother Eddie Zyne.

Finding a replacement for Eddie would prove to be no easy task as he left tremendous shoes to fill. In the Spring of 2019, along came Howard Goldberg, formerly of the indie funk band “Rudy.” Says Billy Livesay, “Howard knew us from playing around South Florida through the years. He was a tremendous fan of Eddie’s, knew of his passing, and asked if he could audition for us. Much to our surprise and delight, he turned out to be a great fit. He brought a revived energy to our band. We were back up and running in a few months."

The songs were recorded in Billy Livesay's home studio in Pembroke Pines, FL, mixed by Grammy nominated engineer Steve Gordon and mastered by Grammy winning engineer Mike Fuller at Fullersound in Ft Lauderdale. The original plan was to have the song “The Rhythm of Love” be the title cut, and the album was to include songs written and recorded over a two year period after the release of The Livesays' 2016 release “Hold On…Life Is Calling.”

Circumstances changed after losing Eddie. Turmoil set in due to ongoing political unrest, the upcoming election, protests, the Covid-19 pandemic, unemployment, isolation, and having to quarantine. The general feelings of uncertainty and uneasiness, and the ever-changing dysfunctional social and political climate, inspired some fresh new songs and a reevaluation as to which songs to release. Armed with twenty songs, the band narrowed it down to thirteen that reflected a congruent theme, which gave birth to the adjusted title “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction.”

Billy explains the meaning and inspiration behind the songs…
“When I Dream” - Everyone has some sort of aspiration; being successful playing music has always been mine. Even when the odds seem stacked against me, I have never given up on my dream. 'It may be a leap of faith but it's a leap I’m going to take, when I dream'. I’d be remiss if I did not mention that I wrote this song while mourning the loss of my bandmate Eddie Zyne who I know would be disappointed if his passing had led to the demise of the band and the end of my dream.

“Another Mile” and “Better Than You” - Many couples are quick to dissolve their relationships after disagreements. I view relationships as a constant work in progress. It’s hard for people to admit when they're wrong. Admittedly, it took me awhile, but I have learned to take the blame when I realize that I am wrong. I wrote the song "Another Mile" for my wife. It was my way of apologizing after an argument over something petty. My wife, Vicki, is also the inspiration behind the song “Better Than You.” She has stood by me and supported me throughout my career. Her mother once said that our “love affair was hanging on by a wing and a prayer.” To this day, I’m glad my wife “took that dare.”

“Can I Have (What You Have)?” -
This song was inspired by a newspaper article I read about a man convicted of armed robbery. In his own defense and to lessen his sentence, he blamed his own reprehensible behavior on having been raised by a father who beat him and a mother who was a drug addict. With pen in hand as I began crafting the lyrics, I happened to look out the window and noticed the sky had turned gray. I wrote down the line “looked out my window storm clouds coming, I don't know how long they will last.” I tasked myself with writing this particular song without a rhyming pattern, which is something that I don’t normally do.
We ended up recording this song at Power Station Studios, in Pompano Beach, FL and released a video of the recording session filmed and edited by Miami-based award winning film maker David Liz. Watch the video here:

“Book Of Rules” - One evening, while at a restaurant eating dinner, I witnessed a group of people acting asinine and causing a ruckus. The line “a jester holding court is something that I ain't” popped into my head and I wrote it down on a napkin. I went home and wrote a “Book of Rules,” a dark rocker with verses that are vignettes about how people seem to have their own codes by which they live.

“That's The Trouble With Love” actually started out as two separate songs. I was working on a song about a guy who experienced love at first sight after offering an umbrella to a girl in the rain, and another song intended to be called “Whole Lot of Trouble,” both of which included lyrics sent to me by a Nashville artist named David Graham with whom I have co-written multiple songs in the past. The concepts were similar in nature in both songs and blended together nicely into one acoustic song which sounds a bit Santana-esque.

“Better Than He Ever Was” is autobiographical in nature, but more so, it's a shout out to my musical peers who, like a fine wine, have improved with age. Too often in the entertainment industry, we are cast aside as we grow older, when in many cases, our maturity lends itself to a better, more polished performance.

“Let It Flow” is a song about addiction, inspired by a close friend’s father who was a train-riding hobo who was always down on his luck as a result of his alcoholism.

“The Rhythm Of Love” is a bluesy dance song about the magic and emotional power of love that sometimes takes control of our senses.

“There’s Something Coming Now” - My drummer and I co-wrote the lyrics to this song, inspired by the current dysfunction of our government, the upcoming election, the country-wide protesting, and overall sense of turmoil we are all feeling during the pandemic. With so much misinformation circulating, we’re all left wondering what’s coming next.

“How Can I Be?” was inspired by a close friend who went through a painful breakup with a domineering woman who cheated on him. It’s a song about love-gone-bad in a dysfunctional relationship that left a man questioning his own self-worth and trying to rediscover himself.

Billy explains why there are two cover songs on this album:
“Woodstock” - When the virus hit and I found myself quarantined, I was reflecting on how I was feeling about the current political state of the country. When the “Black Lives Matter” protests began, it reminded me of the vibe of the 60's movement and the public demand for civil rights and equality. This feeling prompted me to start noodling around with Joni Mitchell’s classic tune “Woodstock.” During a rehearsal, my bandmates and I put our own creative spin on the song. In celebration of the life and legacy of Ms. Mitchell, and because its subject matter fit in nicely with our other songs, we decided to record our version for our album.

“The Heart Of The Matter” - I have been told countless times over the years that my voice was reminiscent of Don Henley. By chance, shortly after Eddie’s passing, while The Livesays were on hiatus, I was asked to fill in for a few months with a touring Eagles tribute band called “The Long Run,” assuming the role of Don Henley. After I finished my stint with the tribute band, we had added Howard to our lineup and began playing out again. The guys in my band decided that we should cover “The Heart Of The Matter,” and it instantly became a fan favorite. It fit the theme of the songs we were compiling for our album, so we decided to record it. Since it has been thirty years since the original release of this monumental song, we opted to stay true to its original composition instead of putting our own spin on it.

Here's what the press has said about The Livesays:

“There is some exceptional music here. The sound of this really channels a lot of old school classic rock textures, but at times brings some modern elements to it. I really like this album a lot. There are no bad songs here at all.” - G. W. Hill Music Street Journal

“The kind of commercial classic rock that doesn’t make hipsters feel self conscious for liking this stuff, the voice, the tunes and the moves all merge into a swell stew of the rock we grew up with and still think is out there. Not only do you get some eloquent melodies on this disc, but you also get some thought- provoking material that will no doubt make an impact on you as a listener.” - Chuck Dauphin, Music News Nashville

“As singer/songwriter, lead guitarist and frontman for The Livesays, Billy Livesay, takes the pop-rock music art form to new heights with The Livesays 2016 Springsteen influenced release “Hold On … Life Is Calling.”  - Robert Silverstein - MWE3.com

“Hold On… Life Is Calling” delivers 13 chewy hunks of pop rock bliss. Without a doubt Billy Livesay has a terrific voice, impassioned and dramatic, and when it coincides with a suitably vast tune, the results are mesmerizing.” — Rocktologist.com

“Billy Livesay's soulful voice and deeply heartfelt lyrics make “Hold On …Life Is Calling” a must-have in any self-respecting classic rockers music collection” - Exclusive Magazine 

“Melodic rock fans should eat this one up. It’s an enjoyable album from a group of veteran musicians who have been around the block a time or two.” - SeaOfTranquility.org

UPCOMING PLANS-
The Livesays will release “The Heart of the Matter” as a video single on their YouTube channel and their Facebook page with a link in the caption to direct viewers to purchase a digital download of the song with a “name your price” option. Proceeds from the sale of the single will benefit the MusiCares Foundation, a charity that has provided more than $60 million in health, financial, and rehabilitation resources to fellow musicians in times of need. More info on the foundation: https://www.grammy.com/musicares.
The video link is here:

(launch 2pm, 8/05/20)

MP3 download will be available here: https://thelivesaysmusic.com/track/2434178/heart-of-the-matter

A pre-sale of the CD (signed hard copies and digital downloads) will begin on Monday, Aug. 10th, 2020. The official release date of the CD has been set for Sept 20th, 2020. As soon as it is safe for music halls and concert venues to reopen, The Livesays plan to tour in support of the release of “The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction.” The band anxiously awaits getting back in front of live audiences where they shine.

In closing, Billy has this message to impart: “During these times of turmoil, isolation, quarantining, anxiety and uncertainty, what has pulled us through is love and music. While we all have our own problems, dysfunctions, shortcomings, and varying opinions, we are all human beings who basically have the same needs and desires. Hopefully the issues we have been facing lately will lead people to take less for granted, apologize quicker, listen more and talk less, smell more roses, and just be better, kinder people. Love may sometimes be ‘a whole lot of trouble,’ but love is definitely worth traveling ‘another mile.’

The Livesays’ lineup:
Billy Livesay - Guitar / lead vocals
Jorge Laplume - Bass / vocals
Howard Goldberg - Drums
Victor "Cuqui" Berrios - Organ / vocals
Tim Murphy- Piano / vocals

For more information:
Website: The Livesays www.thelivesaysmusic.com
Website: Billy Livesay www.billylivesay.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/TheLivesays
YouTube www.youtube.com/user/TheLivesaysMusic
Instagram www.instagram.com/TheLivesays
Twitter www.twitter.com/TheLivesays
ReverbNation www.reverbnation.com/TheLivesays
iTunes www.itunes.com/TheLivesays
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/411odDnocN1WzBbx1rwr8c
To purchase The Livesays’ Music:
The Rhythm of Love and Dysfunction: www.thelivesaysmusic.com/the-rhythm-of-love-and-dysfunction
Previously released albums:
Rose Colored Glasses www.thelivesaysmusic.com/rose-colored-glasses
Faith, Hope & Love www.thelivesaysmusic.com/faith-hope-and-love
Hold On... Life is Calling www.thelivesaysmusic.com/hold-on-life-is-calling

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

Music Legend David Essex Releases New CD "Unplayed Hits"

Featuring songs rarely played live or played on the radio

Legendary singer, songwriter, and actor David Essex is releasing a new album of songs rarely played live or played on the radio titled “Unplayed Hits.” The album is available exclusively from his web shop. There are 100 signed copies available as well.

Since the 1970s, David Essex has attained 19 Top 40 singles in the UK (including two number ones) and 16 Top 40 albums. Internationally, Essex had the most success with his 1973 single “Rock On.” It sold over one million copies, and was awarded a gold disc by the R.I.A.A. in March 1974. It was nominated for a Grammy and reached No. 1 in Cashbox and No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. He has also had an extensive career as an actor.

Essex's pop idol looks gave him a strong female fan base and his British tours created scenes of hysteria reminiscent of Beatlemania. According to The Guinness Book of British Hit Singles, he was voted the number one British male vocalist in 1974, and was a teen idol for more than a decade.

“As the 2020 tour had to be postponed till September 2021, I have put together a new CD in the meantime, 'Unplayed Hits' featuring songs rarely played live or played on the radio. Also, there is a brand new web shop that I hope you like, where you can download or buy the CD plus many other things.” - David Essex

“Unplayed Hits” - Tracklist:

Let It Flow
Time Is Catching Up
Walk Of Life
Carrying The Water Home
Cool Out Tonight
Alice Stay Young & Free
You Crazy Fool
Coming Home
Heart Turns To Stone
What Did I Do
Forever And A Day
Oh Suburbia
Africa You Shine
Fallen Angels Riding
Never Meant To Hurt You
She's Emotional
A Shoulder To Cry On
Stage Struck

To purchase: https://www.musicglue.com/david-essex/shop/categories/all/page/1

For more information: www.davidessex.com

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

Award-Winning Pop Singer-Songwriter Jann Klose Returns with New Single "Pilot Light"

Award-winning artist Jann Klose’s new single and music video “Pilot Light” has passed 1,000,000 views on YouTube. The video was shot during lockdown after the passing of Jann’s manager Gary Salzman from Covid-19 related illness. Jann asked his current NYC band members to tape themselves at home playing along to the track. A music video was quickly produced, edited and released early May and has since gone viral on YouTube.

Watch the video: 

In a time when people are in search of comfort and hope, Jann Klose has created a pop rock song with a catchy melody, driving acoustic guitar and edgy, substantive sound. Produced by David Schoenwetter at his NYC home studio the song is moving, emotive and highlights Jann’s powerful vocal range.

Says Jann: “The song was written during a breakup but when we lost Gary and the song was scheduled to come out within days of his passing, I felt that the approach had to completely change. My NY team at Big Management and I decided to dedicate the song to Gary’s memory. Since everyone was on lockdown we scrapped an earlier version of the video and reshot it with self tapes from home.”

Most recently, Jann had two songs placed on movie soundtracks, including his hit duet “Love You the Most” with Alicia Madison in the movie “Married Young” (Amazon) and “Let Me Be Brave” in the film “One Little Finger” alongside contributions by Quincy Jones, Siedah Garrett and Julian Lennon. The music video for “Love You the Most” has since passed 1.5 million views and streams on YouTube and Spotify alone and was included in the coveted New Music Friday Spotify curated playlist.

Watch the video:

Jann comes off of a packed couple of years. In 2018 he released his 6th studio album, IN TANDEM (Gallo/Sheer/SONY) to rave reviews. Singles “Pour the Champagne” and “Take Me 2 Forever” charted in the Top 20 on several FM stations and Spotify curated lists, passing over a million streams. The album, recorded in Jann’s childhood home of Johannesburg, South Africa featured collaborations with Annie Haslam of Renaissance fame, SA star artist Karen Zoid, Peter Gabriel, Tim Buckley lyricist Larry Beckett and many more.

Watch the video: 

BACKGROUND: 

JANN KLOSE is an award-winning* pop singer-songwriter, who has released six albums and two EPs. Klose was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany and the United States. Jann is an ambassador for Desmond Tutu's TutuDesk campaign and Brick by Brick Uganda. He is the singing voice of Tim Buckley in the movie "Greetings from Tim Buckley" (Universal). His songs have been heard on the Grammy® nominated "Healthy Food For Thought" compilation, charted in the Billboard Top 10 compilation "Action Moves People United" as well as MTV Cribs and movies "Dead Broke" (Warner Bros) featuring Paul Sorvino. He has performed as an actor and singer in touring companies of Broadway musicals, including "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Jekyll and Hyde," and "The Who's Tommy" as well as made for TV movies, voice overs and commercials.

Jann tours year round in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia and has opened for and collaborated with a wide range of artists including Pat Benatar, John Oates of Hall and Oates, Suzanne Vega, The Yardbirds and founder Jim McCarty, Rosanne Cash, Paula Cole, Brett Dennen, Shekhinah, Amanda Black, Carrie Newcomer, Ann Hampton Callaway and sister Liz Callaway, The Byrds’ Roger McGuinn, Gary Lucas, Jeffrey Gaines, Elliott Murphy, Rusted Root, Pete Seeger and Les Paul.

*Recipient of 4 Independent Music Awards, Grammy® nomination “Healthy Food For Thought” compilation.

For more information:
jannklose.com
facebook.com/jannklose
instagram.com/jannklose
twitter.com/jannkloseband
youtube.com/jannklose

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

Award-Winning Pop Singer-Songwriter Jann Klose Returns with New Single "Pilot Light"

Award-winning artist Jann Klose’s new single and music video “Pilot Light” has passed 1,000,000 views on YouTube. The video was shot during lockdown after the passing of Jann’s manager Gary Salzman from Covid-19 related illness. Jann asked his current NYC band members to tape themselves at home playing along to the track. A music video was quickly produced, edited and released early May and has since gone viral on YouTube.

Watch the video: 

In a time when people are in search of comfort and hope, Jann Klose has created a pop rock song with a catchy melody, driving acoustic guitar and edgy, substantive sound. Produced by David Schoenwetter at his NYC home studio the song is moving, emotive and highlights Jann’s powerful vocal range.

Says Jann: “The song was written during a breakup but when we lost Gary and the song was scheduled to come out within days of his passing, I felt that the approach had to completely change. My NY team at Big Management and I decided to dedicate the song to Gary’s memory. Since everyone was on lockdown we scrapped an earlier version of the video and reshot it with self tapes from home.”

Most recently, Jann had two songs placed on movie soundtracks, including his hit duet “Love You the Most” with Alicia Madison in the movie “Married Young” (Amazon) and “Let Me Be Brave” in the film “One Little Finger” alongside contributions by Quincy Jones, Siedah Garrett and Julian Lennon. The music video for “Love You the Most” has since passed 1.5 million views and streams on YouTube and Spotify alone and was included in the coveted New Music Friday Spotify curated playlist.

Watch the video:

Jann comes off of a packed couple of years. In 2018 he released his 6th studio album, IN TANDEM (Gallo/Sheer/SONY) to rave reviews. Singles “Pour the Champagne” and “Take Me 2 Forever” charted in the Top 20 on several FM stations and Spotify curated lists, passing over a million streams. The album, recorded in Jann’s childhood home of Johannesburg, South Africa featured collaborations with Annie Haslam of Renaissance fame, SA star artist Karen Zoid, Peter Gabriel, Tim Buckley lyricist Larry Beckett and many more.

Watch the video: 

BACKGROUND: 

JANN KLOSE is an award-winning* pop singer-songwriter, who has released six albums and two EPs. Klose was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany and the United States. Jann is an ambassador for Desmond Tutu's TutuDesk campaign and Brick by Brick Uganda. He is the singing voice of Tim Buckley in the movie "Greetings from Tim Buckley" (Universal). His songs have been heard on the Grammy® nominated "Healthy Food For Thought" compilation, charted in the Billboard Top 10 compilation "Action Moves People United" as well as MTV Cribs and movies "Dead Broke" (Warner Bros) featuring Paul Sorvino. He has performed as an actor and singer in touring companies of Broadway musicals, including "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Jekyll and Hyde," and "The Who's Tommy" as well as made for TV movies, voice overs and commercials.

Jann tours year round in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia and has opened for and collaborated with a wide range of artists including Pat Benatar, John Oates of Hall and Oates, Suzanne Vega, The Yardbirds and founder Jim McCarty, Rosanne Cash, Paula Cole, Brett Dennen, Shekhinah, Amanda Black, Carrie Newcomer, Ann Hampton Callaway and sister Liz Callaway, The Byrds’ Roger McGuinn, Gary Lucas, Jeffrey Gaines, Elliott Murphy, Rusted Root, Pete Seeger and Les Paul.

*Recipient of 4 Independent Music Awards, Grammy® nomination “Healthy Food For Thought” compilation.

For more information:
jannklose.com
facebook.com/jannklose
instagram.com/jannklose
twitter.com/jannkloseband
youtube.com/jannklose

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

Legendary Alice Cooper Group Drummer Neal Smith To Release New Album of Retro Pop Songs "POP 85/95"

Legendary Alice Cooper Group drummer Neal Smith will be releasing a new album on June 1st, 2020. Neal's new Retro Pop album is titled “POP 85/95” signifying the music style and time period in which Neal wrote these songs between 1985 and 1995.The songs and album concept are totally sexy and politically incorrect. Neal's “POP 85/95” songs represent all aspects of relationships, falling in and out of love in a simpler bygone era before Coronavirus, politically correctness and the new world disorder.

With the onslaught of glam hair bands and heavily homogenized rock of the 1980's, Neal Smith, Hall of Fame Drummer and founding member of the original Alice Cooper Group, was looking for a new direction for his songwriting. Inspired by another drummer, songwriter, singer Phil Collins, Neal turned from writing hard rock to a slicker, more pop rock songwriting style. In the late 1980's he took four of his new songs into the studio and recorded them. One of the songs “Secret Eyes” helped land a recording deal with newly formed record company called Grudge Records. Along with Dennis Dunaway (Alice Cooper fame), Joe Bouchard (Blue Oyster Cult fame), Charlie Hune (Ted Nugent fame) and lead guitarist Jay Jesse Johnson (also known as “Triple J”), a new band called “Deadringer” was formed and signed by Grudge Records. Deadringer recorded an album in 1989 called “Electrocution Of The Heart” featuring the single “Secret Eyes.” The album and Deadringer were all short lived after Grudge Records quick demise. After Deadringer and well into the 1990's, Neal continued writing songs with Jay Jesse Johnson (“Triple J”) in this pop rock style.

Decades later, well into the New Millennium, Neal was searching through his archives of music and found those songs that he composed and recorded with 'Triple J” between the years of 1985 and 1995. Inspired by “Triple J's” amazing lead guitar work, Neal polished the songs and brought them back to life with the help of two of his best friends, Peter Catucci (bass guitar of Killsmith) and Rick Tedesco (guitarist/engineer). Now, much to the excitement of his fans worldwide, Neal Smith's “POP 85/95” is available digitally and on CD!

Hall of Fame Drummer/songwriter/singer Neal Smith on “POP 85/95” CD:
(founding member of the Alice Cooper Group)

In the 80’s and 90’s Rap, Hip Hop, Pop and even Rock music was being recorded with synthesized programmed drums. I understood that this was a new wave of recording percussion. But what I did not like was many of the synthesized drum tracks were being programmed by engineers and musicians who were not even drummers. Disappointed and inspired by that fact, I began a new phase of songwriting by programming synthesized drums on my recordings. The last eight songs on my new CD “POP 85/95” is a collection of songs I wrote from that era featuring synth drums I programmed myself.



To purchase:
http://nealsmithrocks.com/store
https://nealsmithpop8595.hearnow.com

For more information:
www.nealsmithrocks.com
http://nealsmithrocks.com/store
https://www.facebook.com/NealsmithRocks

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

Blues Meets Pop As British Blues Rock Guitar Phenom CHANTEL MCGREGOR Shares Her Cover Of LADY GAGA’s "STUPID LOVE!"

Los Angeles, CA - Like pop sensation Lady Gaga, Chantel McGregor has had to fight twice as hard as her male peers for the respect she deserves. A female blues guitar prodigy who has been performing since the age of 12, McGregor has been dismissed by major label reps as having a “great voice, but girls don’t play guitar like that.” Well, this one does, and she’s teamed with indie giant Cleopatra Records to release her new studio single, a superb reworking of Lady Gaga’s latest hit “Stupid Love.” McGregor’s version adds a wholly modern blues rock take on the keyboard driven pop song, finding the common heart between her style of music and Gaga’s all while offering up smoking hot riff after smoking hot riff between the choruses.

McGregor shares her thoughts on the song saying, “I've loved Lady Gaga’s music for years. I think she’s a really interesting and innovative artist, so when I heard the first single from her new album, I really wanted to perform it. I could just envisage a rock version of it, and it was great fun to work on!'

Stream the single: https://orcd.co/chantel-mcgregor-stupid-love



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

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


CLEOPATRA BLUES
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Make Believe Friends To Release New Single "Act of Love"

Make Believe Friends will be releasing their new single “Act of Love” on May 22, 2020. Mindy Milburn (lead singer) & Laura Espinoza (guitarist/songwriter) are the core members of Make Believe Friends (and also Lunden Reign), an all original alt rock band based out of West Hills, California. Laura & Mindy have already released 4 singles with “Follow Me to the Sun” picked as the #1 song of 2019 by Warren Kurtz of Goldmine Music Magazine.

About “Act of Love”:

From Mindy: 
The lyrics are referring to any challenge one may face in life, and the resilience of the human spirit to overcome it, even when we may not believe it is possible. “It's the strength to rise above, all it takes is an act of love.” It's about trusting your instinct and staying focused on your path, knowing everything will work out in the end, exactly as it's supposed to be. It's also about how remaining undeterred, open to change and growth, and compassionate towards others during such an uncertain time helps us to get through it, and getting through it together makes us all stronger. “It's a whispered prayer, a selfless dare, it's everywhere.”

From Laura: 
We wanted to write an uplifting song and something that speaks about the human spirit in a time of crisis. How people rise to the occasion to help others, even at their own peril. This is an Act of Love.

About the production:
Act of Love by Make Believe Friends (featuring the members of Lunden Reign) was written by Laura Espinoza (music) & Mindy Milburn (lyrics).
Producer: Geoff Pearlman (Echo in the Canyon Band/Film)
Musicians: Lead Vocals: Mindy Milburn; Harmony: Miranda Miller (formerly with Hey Violet!); Guitars: Laura Espinoza & Geoff Pearlman; Piano: Michael Bluestein (Foreigner); Drums: Noel Jasso.  Mastered by: Grammy winning Evren Goknar

“Act of Love” 

If I didn't know better
I'd think this was a dream 
So hard to believe 
Everything we once knew has changed 
and it may never be the same 

One thing I know that's real
An iron will, a heart of steel 
It's the strength to rise above 
All it takes is an act of love
An act of love

It's a whispered prayer
A selfless dare
It's everywhere

Seems to be happening so fast 
Pulls like a current,
It's not meant to last 
Just a test of our hearts and minds 
To see what we’re really made of inside

Right before our eyes 
The seasons change
The clock unwinds
It’s the strength to rise above 
All it takes is an act of love

The darkest caves hide beauty & truth
Ride the waves that carry you
Know each day the sun breaks through 
To illuminate a new point of view

When pushed over the line 
Make the most of 
The space that confines 
We really don't need too much 
What will you do with all this time?

'Cause right, before our eyes 
The seasons change 
The clock unwinds
It's the strength to rise above 
All it takes is an act of love
It's the strength to rise above
All it takes is an act of love
An act of love
It's a whispered prayer
A selfless dare
It's everywhere
It’s everywhere



About Laura Espinoza:
Laura is a songwriter/guitarist, playwright, and TV producer. Laura recently won a NARAS songwriting contest, exclusive to Grammy voting members where she participated in a private songwriting workshop with Busby, Rodney Jerkins, and Sarah Hudson. She has performed on stage with Luis Maldonado (Train), Terri Nunn (Berlin), Dale Bozzio (Missing Persons) & Prescott Niles (The Knack) and started her career with Matt Sorum (Guns n' Roses). She has recorded at Capitol Records, Hollywood, Abbey Road, UK and is the host of “The Rock Radio Show” on KBU-FM, Malibu. Laura is also the recipient of 3 Emmy Awards.

About Mindy Milburn:
Mindy has a passion for singing and music. Originally from Cleveland Ohio, Mindy also sings for other bands when not performing with Make Believe Friends and Lunden Reign including both No Doubt and Madonna tribute bands. Mindy is now living in Los Angeles after moving from Ohio and is the proud parent of two wonderful children.

The band will resume live performances after the CoronaVirus pandemic restrictions are lifted.

To purchase: https://lundenreign.com/store-songs

For more information: 
www.MakeBelieveFriendsBand.com
www.lundenreign.com

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

Sandy McKnight With Fernando Perdomo Releases New EP "San Fernando Beat"

Sandy McKnight is a songwriter, producer and performer. Fernando Perdomo is a multi-instrumentalist, producer and noted session player. Together, their individual talents are exponentially enhanced. Their first product together is a six-song EP, “San Fernando Beat.” Fernando takes the infectious melodies that flow freely from the prolific McKnight and adds musical textures and his trademark energy, and the result is magical. PowerPop.com claims, “'San Fernando Beat' is clearly the best EP of the year.”

Before it was even released, one of the songs they recorded at Perdomo's Reseda Ranch Studio in LA made its way to legendary disc jockey Rodney Bingenheimer, who immediately played it on his influential national radio show. An auspicious start, for sure.

Says Sandy, “The idea behind San Fernando Beat was to bring together two top-tier songwriter/musicians (myself and 'Echo in the Canyon's' Fernando Perdomo) to interpret, or should I say, bash out my latest Power Pop songs. Beyond that, there was no specific theme, although there's a timely topicality to a few of the songs, while keeping the fun quotient high.”

Perdomo and McKnight had met a year earlier, while Sandy was recording his '70s homage “Wow and Flutter,” produced by Chris Silagyi of the band 20/20. A session at Reseda Ranch resulted in a connection between Sandy and Fernando, and in November 2019 they spent 2 productive days recording Sandy's songs in LA. Fernando was immediately blown away by Sandy's songwriting skills. They did 3 songs in those sessions, and decided to cut 3 more tunes bi-coastally (Perdomo works out of SoCal, McKnight is based in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts). Sandy cut the bass tracks, vocals and mixes for the 3 long distance songs at New York's Systems Two Studios, with Grammy-winning engineer Mike Marciano.



Sandy is a 40+year veteran of the music business. In the '70s, he was an in-demand bassist for live and studio work. He played with the New York City-based bands Numbers, The Coupons (with future Smithereens drummer Dennis Diken), Spitfire Boys, The Truants, and others. His dues-paying gigs included 2 years in the seminal “punk-funk” outfit Free and Easy, with future 5-time Downbeat poll-winner, trombonist Ray Anderson.

By the 1980's, Sandy was working with top-name artists as a session player, while continuing to be a part of successful NYC bands. Working in the studio with names like Todd Rundgren, Jean-Yves Labat (M. Frog), and legendary producer Joel Diamond, Sandy learned the ropes in the control room, and soon tried his hand at producing records. He honed his craft at famed Brooklyn studio Systems Two, and by the end of the decade was adept at producing recordings for all genres and budgets.

In the '90s, Sandy moved to the west coast, and opened Arrow Productions in Hollywood. There, he recorded diverse acts and up-and-coming singer/songwriters, along with composing music for film and television soundtracks. His solo career as an artist also took off in L.A., and he recorded his first solo album, “12XME,” which was released in 1992 to critical acclaim. It was in L.A. where he met a young singer/songwriter named Liv Cummins, who he developed and signed to his new indie label, 22 Records.

Liv's debut disc, “Some Days,” was recorded at Paul Antonell's The Clubhouse, and featured such top session players as Gary Burke (Joe Jackson, Bob Dylan, Shania Twain), Sara Lee (B-52s, Indigo Girls, Gang of Four), John Platania (Van Morrison, Chip Taylor), Vinnie Martucci, and a vocal duet with legendary folk-pop singer/songwriter Jonathan Edwards. Her record was an international smash, garnering airplay and rave reviews. Sandy produced a follow-up for Liv, “...exactly,” which was also well-received.

Sandy continued to write and record his own material as well, and soon was heard regularly on many TV shows and several film soundtracks. His 2003 release, “In Solitary,” was a production and songwriting tour-de-force. The ambitious, eclectic CD featured musicians like afro-cuban jazz piano great Oriente Lopez, Argentine-tango violinist Leonardo Suarez-Paz, rock drummer Dennis Diken, and other top players. Sandy has self-produced in a range of styles from latin-tinged jazz pop to British-flavored power pop to atmospheric strings-and-piano arrangements. “In Solitary” continues to find new fans and is regularly re-discovered on Spotify, iTunes, and other internet sites.

Along with his current release with Perdomo, “San Fernando Beat,” his bands Sandy McKnight & the Idea and Pop-Clique also have current releases. His box set, “How I Changed the World,” is a 66-song collection of songs he wrote between 1978-2010. Much of Sandy's music can be heard on Spotify, YouTube, etc.

In closing, Sandy has this to impart about SFB, and what he hopes to communicate to the listener. “I wouldn't call it a message, so much as a feeling. A joy, a strength...what rock music has always been about. The feeling you're listening to a friend tell you about his life, his loves, his attitude. And, since I'm just a bassist from Brooklyn, my ideas are fairly universal. The main reason for listening is that, hopefully, you've never heard these ideas expressed in quite this way. Writing songs conveys not only lyrical imagery...the melodies and chord changes, the arrangements, and the energy all contribute to making a unique statement.”

To purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Fernando-Sandy-McKnight-featuring-Perdomo/dp/B085NWPH8X
or
www.sandymcknight.com

For more information: www.sandymcknight.com

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

Make Believe Friends Featuring Members of Lunden Reign Release New Single "Thank the Academy"

Los Angeles - Make Believe Friends is a new band name for Laura Espinoza and Mindy Milburn who are also the core members of the critically acclaimed band Lunden Reign. Laura and Mindy wanted a second group so they could explore creating other styles of music. Matt Denis (bass) and Noel Jasso (drums), also from Lunden Reign, and Miranda Miller (from Hey Violet!) will also be a part of the new lineup for Make Believe Friends. However, this new version will feature a more contemporary sound.

Their new single “Thank the Academy” is a driving, upbeat song with music by Laura Espinoza (primary songwriter for Lunden Reign) and lyrics by Mindy Milburn. Produced by Geoff Pearlman, the song reflects on someone driven by their own fame, ego and insecurity to the point of where social accolades are more important than anyone else in their life.

“Already a living legend, you think you have no flaws, when you look in the mirror, can you hear the applause?”

Mindy Milburn (lead singer) & Laura Espinoza (guitarist/songwriter) are the core members of Make Believe Friends (and also Lunden Reign), an all original alt rock band based out of West Hills, California. Laura & Mindy have already released 4 singles with “Follow Me to the Sun” picked as the #1 song of 2019 by Warren Kurtz of Goldmine Music Magazine.



About Laura Espinoza:

Laura is a songwriter/guitarist, playwright, and TV producer. Laura recently won a NARAS songwriting contest, exclusive to Grammy voting members where she participated in a private songwriting workshop with Busby, Rodney Jerkins, and Sarah Hudson. She has performed on stage with Luis Maldonado (Train), Terri Nunn (Berlin), Dale Bozzio (Missing Persons) & Prescott Niles (The Knack) and started her career with Matt Sorum (Guns n' Roses). She has recorded at Capitol Records, Hollywood, Abbey Road, UK and is the host of “The Rock Radio Show” on KBU-FM, Malibu. Laura is also the recipient of 3 Emmy Awards.

About Mindy Milburn:

Mindy has a passion for singing and music. Originally from Cleveland Ohio, Mindy also sings for other bands when not performing with Make Believe Friends and Lunden Reign including both No Doubt and Madonna tribute bands. Mindy is now living in Los Angeles after moving from Ohio and is the proud parent of two wonderful children.

The band is currently working on a video for “Thanks the Academy” and will resume live performances after the CoronaVirus pandemic restrictions are lifted.

To purchase: 
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/makebelievefriends/thank-the-academy-feat-lunden-reign

For more information: 
www.MakeBelieveFriendsBand.com
www.lundenreign.com

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

Guitar Master and Composer Peppino D'Agostino to Release "Connexion", His First CD in Six Years!

“Peppino writes wonderful guitar pieces. He's one of my favorite composers for this cranky instrument…I love his sound…” - Leo Kottke 

Beloved acoustic guitar master Peppino D'Agostino has had a busy six years since his critically-acclaimed release, Penumbra, touring internationally, scoring documentary soundtracks and video games, and performing with some of the world’s best musicians. This all served as inspiration for his new, original recording, “Connexion”; the long-anticipated album will be released on April 3rd, 2020, by A-Train Entertainment. Peppino's new musical effort contains entirely original compositions that reflect the distilled work and artistic sensitivity of a virtuoso master and composer.

“Influences are as far-flung as the flamenco work of Paco de Lucia and the pop sensibility of The Beatles, evident in the songs he's written, which brim with memorable melodies.” - Chicago Tribune

Peppino is not only one of the top guitarists in the world, but also a charming, engaging performer who composes music that truly mesmerizes audiences. His gift for creating emotional melodies supported by beautiful harmonies is well known. His solo guitar piece, “The Blue Ocean,” for instance, has been used as a soundtrack for the Monterey Bay Aquarium's documentary “Journey to Baja: A Tale of Three Travelers” and watched daily by thousands of visitors.

“It has been a great learning experience for me to see how Peppino plays in front of an audience. He’s very endearing to them because of the conviction and the genuineness in his musicality.” - Eric Johnson



Peppino has been living in the Bay Area for over 35 years. A native of Italy, D'Agostino has made his considerable international mark as a musical artist on the guitar since he arrived in America 35 years ago. In 2017 Guitar Player listed him as one of the 50 transcendent superheroes of the acoustic guitar of all times. The CD, “Every Step of The Way,” was awarded by Acoustic Guitar's People's Choice Awards with a Bronze medal for Best Acoustic Album of All Time. His signature Seagull acoustic guitar has been voted among the ten best signature guitars by Guitar Player magazine.

“Not many guitarists are as unforgettable as Peppino D'Agostino.” - Lee Bell, Senior Director of Programming at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts 

Since the beginning of his career, Peppino D'Agostino has collaborated, recorded and performed with enthusiasm and passion with many incredible musicians such as Grammy Award-winning Sergio Assad, Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, Jazz guitar legend Martin Taylor and electric guitar genius Stef Burns. Although Peppino continues from time to time to join forces with his amazing colleagues, his desire for his new project was to focus on the beauty, mysteries, and challenges of the solo acoustic guitar.

“Peppino D'Agostino is a guitarist's guitarist know as much for his technical skills as for his writing, he's one of the most capable composers among fingerstyle guitarists.” -  Acoustic Guitar Magazine. 

Says Peppino, “The first tune on the album entitled 'High Plains Guitarra' will transport the listener to the unforgettable era of the Western movie of the 60's and the work of the brilliant film composer Ennio Morricone. 'Dancing with Shadows' was inspired by the Doo Wop genre of the 40's and the ghosts of the old ballrooms that once were in Torino, Italy. 'Head Case' is pure high energy improvisation inspired by the unpredictable Laws of Chaos. 'Buster' was written for the late great Musician and Guitarist Buster B. Jones. 'Mara's Sleeping Song' is my rendition of a beautiful piece written by the fantastic Mandolin virtuoso Caterina Lichtenberg. I'm blessed to have Stef Burns doubling the beautiful melody and improvising masterfully over it. 'Mexican Sunrises' is about dreaming of laying beneath a beautiful sunset in Baja California, Mexico. 'Liam's Song' is dedicated to little Liam, one of my best friends. Stammi Vicino was written together with the legendary Rock Star Vasco Rossi and the inimitable electric guitar genius, Stef Burns. 'Jenny's Goodbyes' is dedicated to Jenny, a wonderful woman that left us too early. 'Beauty in the Abyss' is about dreaming of the whales, the beautiful creatures of the deep Oceans.

“Peppino's music is deep and beautiful.” - Tommy Emmanuel

Peppino D'Agostino has crafted a solo guitar style that is delicate, ethereal, stunning and technically brilliant. D'Agostino says, “The challenges in composing for steel string guitar are multiple and difficult to overcome. The general tendency is to either relax into predictable and boring musical territory or to show off with useless displays of speed. As my composition instrument of choice, I'm approaching the steel-string guitar as an orchestra with infinite possibilities.”

“A poet…among the best talents around.” - San Francisco Chronicle 

To pre-order:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Connexion/dp/B083YSF5WR
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/album/connexion/1495260719?ls=1&app=itunes

The pre-order for autographed CD's starts on March 6, 2020 from Peppino's website

For more information: http://www.peppinodagostino.com

US - Canada booking agents:

Louise Baker
(828) 450-5385
louise@bakerbooking.com

Bruce Swan
(203) 895-7609
bruce@bakerbooking.com

Europe Booking Agents:

Riccardo Cappelli
+39 340 5616958
jorainbo@libero.it

Mathias Pohl
+39 1637105618
pohl.mathias@t-online.de

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

Pop-Rock-Contemporary-New Age Review: Mary Gospe-Time To Soar

Genre: Pop-Rock-Contemporary-New Age

Release Date: November 15, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

Usually, when I cover new age-related music it is all instrumental and at times some chants and vocalizations. Mary Gospe’s Time To Soar took me right out of that little comfort zone I have been in for so long. That is by no means a negative connotation, change means growth!

One look at the album cover and you see a woman that is shining brightly with positivity and light. The mantra for the project is meant for each listener to embrace their authentic self with love, trust, joy, and freedom (Listen to “Free To Be Me”). If you are already doing that then this will just validate that purpose one step further.

Time To Soar is the message, plain and simple. Mary has a very nice voice that blends well with the music presented. Although the music is not new age, the subject matter is 100%. The music you will hear is pop, rock, and adult contemporary. It was all co-created with producer/multi-instrumentalist, David Vito Gregoli.

“We Are One” is a powerful message to the universe. The message certainly reverberates with me and hopefully, it will with everyone that takes the time to listen to this beautiful combination of lyrical prose and musical excellence. I choose that that track to be represented on my New Age Music Reviews Spotfiy Playlist (I also included the entire album for streaming here as well).

A lot of acoustic guitar playing is very good like on “I Choose Love.” This kind of accompaniment is typical of what you will hear on this recording. It is quality vocals with quality musicianship consistently. If you think about it, it has to be strong. If you want to reach an audience with your message you need a good bed of music to let ride on, and that is exactly what happens. It works well for Mary’s voice and choice of lyrics.

Just like she sings on “Pendulum,” give in to trust, surrender to love. It is simple and straight forward. However, for some of us, that kind of idea can be a task rather than a smooth transition. And that is why people like Mary and Vito are here on the planet, to help us move in that direction a little easier.

“Unity” has more rock elements than all the previous tracks. It is restrained but impactful with some nice organ to complement the electric guitar. There are no rough edges or anything that makes it a flat-out rocker, it is tastefully done to enhance Mary’s vocals and the background vocals. The track “Ride The Wave” has a political and world situation bend to it but is done nicely and gently pushes you into a more positive state of mind. Mary sings-I’m not going to succumb, I’m going “Ride The Wave” of a higher frequency and I’m going to rise above it and rise to a higher vibration. What a great message, and finally a song with those elements without any anger or negativity. It was so refreshing!

This was out of the ordinary for me in the new age realm which made me more selective and tougher from a critical stance. Mary passed with flying colors. If you are ready or if you are not, it is the Time To Soar and “Ride The Wave” to a higher vibration!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

January 20, 2020

Founder of:

The Final on Vinyl

MuzikMan Productions

MuzikMan Reviews

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Review Provided By New Age Music Reviews

Tracks:
01. We Are One
02. Walk Slowly
03. The Black Crow Prophecy
04. Time to Soar
05. I Choose Love
06. Free To Be Me
07. Pendulum
08. Unity
09. Ride The Wave
10. Let's Break Away
11. Live From Your Heart
12. All Is Well
 

Christopher Cross Celebrates 40th Anniversary With 2020 Tour

Christopher Cross made history with his 1980 self-titled debut album, winning five Grammy Awards, including—for the first time in Grammy history—the “Big Four” most prestigious awards: Record of the Year (for the single “Sailing”), Album of the Year, Song of the Year (also “Sailing”), and Best New Artist.

In a career spanning over five decades, Cross has sold over 10 million albums. His music has garnered five Grammys, an Oscar, a Golden Globe and five Top 10 singles.

This year, Christopher Cross is celebrating the 40th anniversary of his breakthrough debut album with a major tour featuring songs from his debut album: “Sailing,” “Ride Like the Wind,” “Say You’ll Be Mine,” and more.

Says Cross, “This tour celebrates the first chapter in what has been my life’s journey. I look forward to seeing everyone on the road.”

Tour dates*:

April 1, 2020 - Austin, TX - Paramount Theatre
April 3, 2020 - Dallas, TX - Majestic Theatre
April 5, 2020 - Nashville, TN - Schermerhorn Symphony Center
April 7, 2020 - Red Bank, NJ - Count Basie Center for the Arts
April 9, 2020 - New York, NY - The Town Hall
April 10, 2020 - Atlantic City, NJ - Sound Waves @ Hard Rock
April 11, 2020 -Westbury, NY - NYCB Theatre
April 13, 2020 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere Music Hall
April 17, 2020 - Waukeegan, IL - Genessee Theatre
April 18, 2020 - Welch, MN - Treasure Island Event Center
April 21, 2020 - Orlando, FL - Epcot / Walt Disney World Resort
April 22, 2020 - Orlando, FL - Epcot / Walt Disney World Resort
April 23, 2020 - Orlando, FL - Epcot / Walt Disney World Resort
April 26, 2020 - Clearwater, FL - Capitol Theatre @ Ruth Eckerd Hall

*More dates announced soon

Details: https://www.christophercross.com/

Follow Christopher on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherCrossOfficial/
Instagram & Twitter: @itsmrcross

BOOKING
Justin Hirschman
AGI
(212) 813-9292
Justin.Hirschman@ArtistGrp.com

MANAGEMENT
Jovan Ristic
21st Century Artists, Inc.
(212) 254-5500
jovan@21stca.com

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

Alt-Rock-Prog-Pop Review: Sharon Lia Band-Beyond Wonderland

Release Date: August 22, 2019

Label: Sharrick Records

Website

Sharon Lia leads from the front in the epic and emotive, Beyond Wonderland, the debut album from the Philadelphia-based band of her namesake. The ever-versatile Sharon chaperones us through the album’s varying themes with her compelling lead vocals and adept piano performances. The singer is at once soulful and candid on this collection, which is an ethereal meeting point of joy and nostalgia, of a past to be forgotten and a future to be fought for. The luscious instrumentation provided by guitarist Rick Jannotti and drummer Howie Fallon bolster the touching, thought-provoking message of this work. While the trio hasn’t struck gold with this debut, it’s clear they’re not far off.

After a brooding beginning, “Sick Addiction” explodes into a badass crescendo of electrifying guitar and thumping percussion. The tormented lyrics showcase Sharon Lia Band’s talent for creating sensational, melodic rock with a twist of poignant tenderness. On the aptly named “Anomie,” Sharon’s harmonious, gentle vocals paint the portrait of a woman let down and misunderstood by her society. Over a celestial arrangement, the defiant singer highlights the power of determination, self-realization, and grit.

“Why Can’t We Pretend?” is a gorgeous, sentimental and dreamy track. It boasts a blissful string section, a triumphant drum kick, and Sharon’s vocal prowess is given the space and backing to fully flourish. On “Hanging by a Thread” the singer similarly wows with an immaculate vocal performance. This track immediately grabs attention with a cadenced organ, crisp drums, and bluesy bass. Despite the smooth, polished sound of this track, the lyrics allude to a tense precarity, an uncertain danger, an imminent threat. This sensitivity is what adds layers of meaning to the band’s particular alternative-rock sound.

The tracklisting is masterful here as the band follows the melancholic end of “Hanging by a Thread” with the confident, sexy, strutting opening of “Free to Fall.” The beat oozes tenacity made up of a quivering electric guitar, a celestial synth, and a rapping drumbeat. The singer’s soaring voice proclaims fearlessness, boldness, and freedom. Then, Sharon Lia Band gifts us their unique take on a rock ballad in “Hunter and Slayer.” It’s tinkling piano and soft string section elicit a mysterious, fairytale feeling. While Sharon’s graceful singing evokes images of a somber, smoky bar-room performance one could only find in a black-and-white film.

On the album’s finale, “Beyond Wonderland.” a lurking bass line is joined by cracking drums while an electric guitar looms in the background, waiting to emerge noisily for the sensational climax. The brazen lyrics deal with the voyage of life, creativity, and self-discovery. It generates a feeling of harmonious completion, as the outro begins, we hear birds chirping and the soft sound of rainfall.  

The ambition and confidence needed to actualize this debut album’s grand vision show Sharon Lia Band has the attributes for a bright future in music. Beyond Wonderland is sure to leave you looking forward to this band’s next adventure.

Key Tracks Include: “Hanging by a Thread”, “Free to Fall”, and “Hunter and Slayer”

Nicholas Lane-MuzikMan.net Staff

October 17, 2019

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Tracks:
1. Sick Addiction
2. Anomie
3. Why Can’t We Pretend?
4. Hanging by a Thread
5. Free to Fall
6. Hunter and Slayer
7. Beyond Wonderland