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

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

YES Legend Jon Anderson w/ The Paul Green Rock Academy To Play Select Shows Spring 2022

Legendary YES vocalist/songwriter Jon Anderson will be playing select shows with The Paul Green Rock Academy in April 2022!

This Jon Anderson with The Paul Green Rock Academy tour is a resumption of the tradition started in 2005 when Jon toured with Paul Green's original School of Rock all stars.

These early shows, over 30 in total between 2006-2008, were nothing short of magical, and now Jon Anderson returns to continue that magic with a set of Yes Classics, deep cuts, mash ups, and solo works, all with lush arrangements featuring choral singing, horns, and all the other benefits of having a backing band with 25 young musicians.

THE ONE THING ABOUT CREATING MUSIC WITH YOUNG MUSICIANS AND SINGERS IS THE ADVENTURE OF IT ALL..

I SANG AND TOURED WITH THE PAUL GREEN SCHOOL OF ROCK MANY YEARS AGO...IT WAS A MIRACLE FOR ME TO JOIN IN WITH THEIR YOUNG ENERGY...AND LEARN FROM THEM..

NOW HERE WE ARE WITH THE PAUL GREEN ROCK ACADEMY …….

AND AGAIN, THEIR EXCITEMENT AND JOY FOR MAKING MUSIC REALLY MAKES IT ALL WORTHWHILE .... PLUS THEY ARE A REALLY TALENTED BUNCH….

THERE IS A FUTURE IN MUSIC, AND THESE YOUNG SOULS PROVE IT EVERY TIME I HEAR THEM SING AND PLAY...

I KNOW YOU WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL EVENING SPENDING TIME WITH THE FUTURE OF ROCK 'N' ROLL..

MANY BLESSINGS…JON ANDERSON..

Jon Anderson with The Paul Green Rock Academy tour dates:

Wednesday, April 6, Variety Playhouse in Atlanta, GA
Sunday, April 10. Capital Theatre in Clearwater, FL
Tuesday, April 12, King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, FL
Thursday, April 14, The Plaza Live in Orlando, FL
Saturday, April 16, ROSFEST at the Sarasota Opera House, Sarasota, FL

Plans for a major North American tour in the summer 2022 are currently in the works!

Watch Jon Anderson with the Paul Green Rock Academy - HEART OF THE SUNRISE promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPdy9VRHeAA

photo by Deborah Anderson

Jon Anderson is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable voices in music as the lead vocalist and creative force behind YES. Anderson was the author and a major creative influence behind the ground-breaking album “Fragile” as well as the series of epic, complex pieces such as “Awaken,” “Gates of Delirium” and especially “Close to the Edge” which were central to the band's success. Additionally, Anderson co-authored the group's biggest hits, including “I've Seen All Good People,” “Roundabout” and “Owner Of A Lonely Heart.” After 50 years of success in the music business, Jon has worked with many variations of YES, as well as collaborations with Vangelis, Kitaro, Roine Stolt and Jean-Luc Ponty. He has released several critically acclaimed solo albums including “Olias of Sunhillow,” “Song of Seven,” “Animation,” “Three Ships,” “Toltec” and “Survival and Other Stories” to name just a few. In 2017 Jon reformed YES with former band members Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman. YES Featuring ARW toured the world to rave reviews and released “Live At The Apollo” CD/DVD in September 2018. Never to stand still musically, in 2019 Jon released an album he started 28 years ago, now called “1,000 Hands,” a reference to the fact that numerous guest musicians perform on the album, including Ian Anderson, Billy Cobham, Jean-Luc Ponty, Chick Corea, Zap Momma, Chris Squire, Alan White, Steve Howe and many more.

For more information:
Paul Green official website: www.PaulGreenRock.com
Jon Anderson’s official website: www.JonAnderson.com

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

ASIA Featuring John Payne Double Anniversary Tour Celebrating 30 & 40 Years of the Music of ASIA

2022 landmarks 30 years since the release of the ASIA album AQUA on which John Payne was ASIA’s lead vocalist.

The following 15 years featured 7 more stunning ASIA studio albums, ARIA, ARENA, ANTHOLOGY, AURA, ARCHIVA 1&2 and SILENT NATION. This year also celebrates 40 years since the 1982 release of the first ASIA album (Downes, Howe, Wetton, Palmer) that features the hits, “Heat of the Moment” and “Only Time Will Tell.”

This tour will showcase the music of both ASIA’s 1982 release and ASIA’s 1992 release AQUA.

The 90-minute show focuses on those two albums and a set list that includes, “Who Will Stop the Rain,” “Someday,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Back in Town,” “Lay Down Your Arms,” “Sole Survivor,” “Time Again,” “Love Under Fire,” “Heaven on Earth,” “Wildest Dreams,” “Here Comes the Feeling” and more.

Vocalist John Payne remarked “This is going to be very nostalgic for me, I haven’t played some of these songs in 30 years and I’m extremely excited to do this tour with our band. We want the shows to sound as close to the original recordings as possible”

Manager Lee Evans said “The band is really on form and John’s vocals are as powerful as ever, It’s gonna be a knock-out show!”

The tour is being booked by their agent Rick Shoor: Rick@paradiseartists.com in the US.

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

OLIVER WAKEMAN Announces “Collaborations” 3CD Box Set Including Re-issues of “The 3 Ages of Magick” with Steve Howe & “Ravens & Lullabies” with Gordon Giltrap

Release April 11, 2022 – available to pre order now from Burning Shed!

Oliver Wakeman has the honour of being one of the few musicians to have performed and recorded with some of Prog Rock’s most respected guitarists.

Back in 2001, many years before he became a member of YES, Oliver and guitarist Steve Howe worked together on the “The 3 Ages of Magick” album. Supplemented by an array of talented musicians, this album became a hidden gem in the YES family tree of recordings.

Following his tenure in the keyboard seat for YES in from 2008 to 2011, Oliver teamed up with another British guitar legend, Gordon Giltrap, to record their award winning “Ravens & Lullabies” album, a collection of rock and acoustic tracks featuring the singers Paul Manzi (SWEET) and Benoit David (YES).

20 years following its original release, “The 3 Ages of Magick” is teamed with the album “Ravens & Lullabies” in the new “Collaborations” 3CD Box Set. Including remastered versions of both albums along with the previously unreleased acoustic live album, “From a Stage” features music from Wakeman & Giltrap’s many years of performing together across the UK.

The “Collaborations” box set, comprising 3CDs each with a 16-page booklet and individual art prints of the sleeves, will be released by Burning Shed on 11th April.

“The 3 Ages of Magick”, released in 2001, is an instrumental album based in the style of the great 70’s prog solo records. Featuring Steve Howe across 11 of its 13 tracks, the album is both gentle and outlandish in equal measure. The album, based on stories from British folklore, utilises traditional instruments to help tell each story. This remastered version also includes 3 bonus tracks not available on the original release.

10 years later, Oliver and another legendary guitarist, Gordon Giltrap, joined forces after meeting at one of his father’s (Rick Wakeman) Christmas concerts in which they both performed.

“Ravens & Lullabies” allowed Oliver and Gordon to intertwine their acoustic musical abilities in the Lullabies section of the record. The Ravens aspect of the album allowed Gordon to be re-introduced to the Prog community in which he had been a leading figure during his heyday when releasing albums such as “Fear Of The Dark” and “Perilous Journey” (which contained his hit song “Heartsong”). This remastered version also features the bonus studio tracks, “The Forgotten King”, “Bach’s Praeludium” and a new version of Gordon’s classic “Roots” which were only included on the limited-edition double disc release of the original. Also included is a new recording, a piano and classical guitar version of Oliver’s track “The Wedding Approaches”.

This box set package also includes a third disc, “From a Stage”. During the lockdown, Oliver was approached by the sound engineer from one of the Giltrap/Wakeman concerts to say he had found a multitrack recording from a Christmas concert Oliver and Gordon had performed at along with special guest Paul Manzi (SWEET). This allowed a great opportunity to put together the live album “From a Stage” featuring Oliver and Gordon’s interpretations of songs from their collective 20+ years of back catalogues. Including the warmth and musical interplay that became a trademark for their often sold out shows, the recording features songs such as “Heartsong”, “Glimmer of Light” & “Roots”.

The “Collaborations” box set contains 3 CDs each with 16-page booklets including lyrics, previously unseen artwork and many stories behind the creativity of Wakeman and Giltrap. The first 250 box sets will also include the 4th art print of the box set cover numbered and signed by Oliver Wakeman.

A lyric video “Moneyfacturing” from the box set, is now available to view on YouTube.  The track is taken from the Wakeman/Giltrap “Ravens & Lullabies” record in the box set and features Paul Manzi (SWEET)

Oliver says: “This is one of my personal favourite band tracks I have ever written and recorded, allowing me to make use of a lot of my collection of keyboards. It is a radio-friendly song which also reminds people what a great electric guitar player Gordon is!”

Watch the video here: 

“Collaborations” will be released by Burning Shed on 11th April.

You can pre-order the set here: https://burningshed.com/store/oliverwakeman

About Oliver Wakeman
Eldest son of prog legend Rick, Wakeman filled the keyboard role, once held by his father, with YES from 2008 to 2011. His work with YES includes the triple live album in “In The Present – Live From Lyon,” “Fly From Here” and the “From A Page” box set featuring recordings from his time in the band released in 2019. During his tenure with YES, Wakeman also toured and recorded as a member of The Strawbs. Wakeman’s debut album (1997) “Heaven’s Isle” was inspired by the island of Lundy, and he has since released a number of solo and Oliver Wakeman Band albums.  He has also released several collaborations with renowned musicians, including Clive Nolan, Steve Howe, band mate to both Oliver and his father in YES, as well as writing and recording with guitar legend Gordon Giltrap. Oliver is currently working on his latest album ‘Anam Cara’ due for release in late 2022.

For more information:
Website: www.oliverwakeman.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OliverWakeman/
Twitter: @OliverWakeman
Instagram: www.instagram.com/oliverwakemanmusic/

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

Renowned Bassist Hansford Rowe Presents His New Signature Bass by Tao Guitars The HR Superleggera

“The Superleggera’s body shape is unique and perfectly balanced. The subtle references to the great Marcello Gandini (Lamborghini Miura, Alfa Montreal) are sublime. The brushed aluminum hardware is entirely bespoke. The bridge is made to my design parameters (as tool free as possible) with Tao’s usual attention to detail and magnificent design aesthetics. The pickups are custom Benedetti.” - Hansford Rowe

American bassist Hansford Rowe began his career in the clubs of New York City. With French drummer Pierre Moerlen, he reformed the jazz-rock group Gong. PM’s Gong is considered one of the great fusion bands of the late 70s. Recording guests included icons like Mick Taylor, Steve Winwood and Didier Lockwood. International touring soon secured Hansford a place among the world’s leading bass players and work with Mike Oldfield, Allan Holdsworth, John Martyn, Biréli Lagrène, La Monte Young, David “Fuze” Fiuczynski, Gary Husband etc Hansford, with Warwick bass guitars and guitarist Jon Catler developed the first Just Intonation bass. He is considered an expert in the use of alternate tuning systems. His last record is Decadence by Gong Expresso.

Tao Guitars was founded by Belgian luthier duo Serge Michiels and John Joveniaux in Brussels in 2004. The boutique builders collaborate closely with customers to perfectly outfit guitars to the individual and since the two luthiers handcraft all of the instruments by themselves they limit their output to just a few instruments per year. Infused by a deep sense of design and inspired by architecture, Italian auto design and Japanese aesthetics, Tao’s work is a perfect balance between functionality, tone and adventurous design. For more on Tao Guitars, please visit: http://www.taoguitars.com/.

HR Superleggera Bass by Tao Guitars

• Lightweight Swamp Ash body
• Neck-through of Bosnian maple with a Wenge center (tinted black)
• Wenge fingerboard with brushed aluminum fret marker inlays
• Custom proprietary Benedetti pickups
• Proprietary aircraft-grade brushed aluminum hardware
• Circular graining of electronics box aluminum lining
• Modified Hipshot lightweight tuners
• Proprietary titanium truss rod by KTS Japan (single bar, double action)
• Fret and nut material 18% Nickel / Silver (Maillechort – copper, nickel, and zinc)
• Paint: Lamborghini Oro Elios
• Scale: 34.5”
• String spacing at nut: 9mm
• String spacing at bridge: 17mm
• Fingerboard radius: 14”
• Weight: 7.8lbs
• Price: 14,000 Euros

For more information: www.hansfordrowe.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Craft, a Post-Enid Band Project From the Early 1980s, Has Their Sole Album 'First Signs' Re-Released with 8 Bonus Tracks as a Definitive Edition. OUT NOW!

Long deleted sole album by three prog ambassadors from The Enid, William Gilmour, Martin Russell (who would go on to form Afro Celt Sound System) and Pride of Passion’s Grant Gilmour.

Including eight bonus tracks, four of which are remixes from the original set along with two previously unreleased tracks ‘Despina’ and ‘Dmitri’s Lament’.

With artwork by Willie Gilmour and liner notes by Martin Russell detailing the history of the band and the making of the album.

Featuring pieces inspired by signs of the Zodiac, the album has been out of print since the mid-1990s, this definitive edition has been remastered from the original master tapes by Martin Russell, this definitive re-release a labour of love for everyone involved.

Of the definitive re-release, Martin Russell said “I'm so happy that this body of music (from half our lives ago!) is getting a carefully-curated release befitting this century's listeners, whether they've previously heard the 1984 vinyl, the 1991 CD or are coming fresh to what we did back then. Reconnecting with Willie and Grant and recollecting our ambition and our collective bond has been an unexpected and joyful by-product of preparing this definitive edition. I'm very grateful for the opportunity we've been given to revisit our musical past and to provide a glimpse into 'what might have been' via the additional content.”

Craft’s First Signs – The Definitive Edition is available on CD, Download, High-Res Download and Streaming Platforms:
Amazon CD: https://geni.us/CraftCD
Apple Music: https://geni.us/CraftA
Spotify: https://geni.us/CraftS
HDtracks: https://geni.us/CraftHD

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

Italian Bassist ALBERTO RIGONI To Release New Album “Songs for Souls” in Memory of His Father, Feat. Jordan Rudess, Jennifer Batten, Mark Zonder and Others!

Italian bass master and composer ALBERTO RIGONI (solo, BAD As, Natural Born Machine, Bassists Alliance Project, Vivaldi Metal Project etc.) on January 15, 2022 will release his new album, entitled “Songs for Souls”, in memory of his Father who recently passed away. The album features Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater), Jennifer Batten (Michael Jackson, Jeff Beck), Mark Zonder (Fates Warning) and many others!

Says Alberto, “Considering the hard times, I was going to give up with music but suddenly my father (famous professor, writer and journalist) passed away on October 15 2021... So, I decided to make an album in his memory. It’s fully instrumental, 10 tracks spanning from prog rock to ambient/cinematic) and it features some incredible special guests such as Jordan Rudess, Jennifer Batten, Mark Zonder and many more. So far... the best album I’ve ever released.. at least I hope so.”

Watch the video for “L’Origin du Monde” with Jordan Rudess and Mark Zonder: 

Format: Digital and Digipack CD (6 pages)

Tracklist

1. The Miracle
2. L’Origin du Monde (ft. Jordan Rudess and Mark Zonder)
3. Youth (ft. Jennifer Batten and M. Zonder)
4. Talking with My Demons (ft. Alessandro Bertoni and M. Zonder)
5. Suddenly (ft. A. Bertoni and M. Zonder)
6. The Battle (ft. Tommaso Ermolli and M. Zonder)
7. Silence
8. Keep on Fighting (ft. Edoardo Taddei, M. Zonder)
9. Peaceful Acceptance (ft. T. Ermolli)
10. Souls Never Die (ft. Marco Sfogli, Fabrizio Leo, A. Bertoni, M. Zonder)

To purchase Alberto Rigoni's “Songs for Souls”:
http://albertorigoni.bandcamp.com (Digital and Digipack CD)
Japan: http://diskunion.net/portal/ct/list/0/72209610 (Digipack CD)
Rest of the world (digipack):
https://burningshed.com/alberto-rigoni_songs-for-souls_cd
https://www.prideandjoy.de/shop/de/home/230-alberto-rigoni-songs-for-souls-cd.html

Two songs are streamable and downloadable now.

Born in 1981, Alberto Rigoni is an Italian bass player and composer, internationally known for his career as a solo artist and as a member of the metal band BAD As, The Italians, Natural Born Machines Lady & THE BASS, co-producer of the Vivaldi Metal Project and member of progressive rock band TwinSpirits (no more active).

Between 2008 and 2020 Alberto has released worldwide 9 solo albums (Something Different, Rebirth, Three Wise Monkeys, Overloaded, BASSORAMA, Duality, EvoRevolution, Prog Injection, Odd Times), spanning from progressive rock metal to fusion. His albums also featured legendary musicians such as Kevin Moore (ex Dream Theater), Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Crimson), Marco Minnemann (the Aristocrats), Göran Edman (ex Yngwie Malmsteen), Michael Manring and many others.

Alberto has been featured on the cover of magazines such as Bass Magazine (Japan), Bass Musician Magazine (USA), Bajos Y Bajistas (Spain), Basistas (Poland), TOP BASS (Poland). Moreover, in March 2015 the prestigious Bass Guitar Magazine (UK) released Alberto’s CD anthology called “Into THE BASS.”

Alberto has also recorded for several international artists such as Italian pop singer Alexia and he is also playing bass for Canadian rock singer and songwriter Kim Bingham (ex-Nelly Furtado) and The Italians, sharing stages with artists such as Alan Parson, Suzanne Vega, Jørn Lande, Paul Gilbert, Vinnie Moore and others.

In 2016 founded a new metal band called BADASS (now called BAD As) which released three albums (More Pain More Gain, Midnight Curse and Crucified Society.

On December 15th 2017, Rigoni together with bassist Jeff Hughell (Six Feet Under) released a new studio project called Bassists Alliance. The first album “Crush” featured top notch bassists such as Michael Manring, Adam Nitti, Steve di Giorgio, Colin Edwin, Mark Mitchell, Scott Reeder, Dmitry Lisenko, Brandino BassMaster, Ryan Martini, Leonid Maksimov, Tony Grey.

In 2019 founded a new AOR band called “Natural Born Machine” featuring famous Pink Cream 69 singer David Readman. Their debut album “Human” was released on February 19th 2021 by Pride and Joy Music.

Currently he is also collaborating with famous producer Hiro Furuya (Elton John, Eric Clapton, etc) and many others as session bassist.

His tenth album “For The Love of Bass” feat. all star bassists such as Nathan East, Lee Sklar, Michael Manring, Doug Wimbish and many others was released on April 2nd 2021 and it’s available worldwide.

For more information:
http://www.albertorigoni.net
http://www.facebook.com/albertorigonimusic
http://albertorigoni.bandcamp.com
http://www.youtube.com/albertorigoni
http://www.twitter.com/albertorigoni
http://www.vivaldimetalproject.com
http://www.badas.rocks
http://www.theitaliansband.com
http://bassistsallianceproject.bandcamp.com

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

Join YES Legend Jon Anderson's Patreon and Gain Access To Unreleased Music and Videos, Live Events and More!

YES Legend Jon Anderson is creating new art and music! Join Jon Anderson’s Patreon and gain access to unreleased Music and Videos, Live Events and more!

Hello to my fans and supporters!

I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you as I create the next chapter of my life's work.  After years of dealing with the runaround of big record labels, I have decided to partner with you, as those of you who enjoy my work have always been my greatest support and inspiration.  There are many great projects I have been working on including lots of new music, paintings, a book, and short stories.  Your patronage will allow me to continue my work and will offer you priceless access.

Jon Anderson

Select A Membership Level:

Silver
$10 PER MONTH
Early Access to Songs and Projects, Livestreams of Rehearsals and Events
Behind-the-scenes Videos of the Creative Process
Membership to Private Community of Supporters
Early Ticket Access to Select Performances
Access to General Archives

Gold
$50 PER MONTH
All Benefits of Silver Patrons
Access to Jon’s Select Archives
Monthly Live Q&A to AMA (Ask Me Anything)
Surprise Gifts Throughout the First Year of Patronage

Platinum
$100 PER MONTH
All Benefits of Silver and Gold Patrons
Access to Jon’s Gold Vault Archives
Surprise Gifts Throughout the First Year of Patronage
Pre-release previews of Jon’s work
Access to Participate in Jon’s Opus Puzzle

Become a patron to:
Unlock exclusive posts of music, art, and videos
Listen anywhere
Connect via private message

To Join:
https://www.patreon.com/JonAnderson?fbclid=IwAR3b3lv1MpetYY-sGhGIgfxUNRytpf0GX-7B1xdxG6xCKxvkSC-ddmt-Etk

photo by Deborah Anderson

Jon Anderson official website: www.jonanderson.com

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

Phenomena’s Original Trilogy of Hit Albums and Anthology Collected Together in One Set Along with the Launch of a New Merchandise Store (Including T-Shirts) and High-Res Audio Release – All Out Now!

The three iconic Phenomena albums have been collected together into a mini-box set for fans who want to buy all three studio albums together. The set also includes the Anthology (which features five exclusive tracks) and all four booklets, including liner notes on the history of Phenomena.

Phenomena 1 sold over a million copies in 1985 and 1987’s Phenomena 2: Dream Runner featured the #1 hit single “Did It All For Love” with Phenomena 3: Innervision following in 1993.

Guests on the project include Glenn Hughes, John Wetton, Brian May, Cozy Powell, Mel Galley, Neil Murray, Max Bacon, Ric Sanders, Scott Gorham, John Thomas, Ted McKenna and Keith Murrell.

Phenomena has partnered with Townsend Music to launch a merchandise store with the CDs, Downloads and Merchandise (including t-shirts) available at: https://phenomena.tmstor.es/

The first Phenomena album’s quarter inch master tapes have also been given a fresh transfer to enable a 192/24 high-res audio release on platforms such as HDtracks: https://geni.us/PhenomenaH

There are future plans for the Phenomena project, to be announced on its Facebook page, as its horizons are expanded to reach new audiences. The Phenomena Trilogy has earned classic album status, so the mini-box set gives fans a one-stop-shop opportunity to buy the key releases.

Mini Box Set on Amazon: https://geni.us/PHEN-T-CD

Phenomena on Spotify: https://geni.us/PhenomenaSP

Phenomena on Apple Music: https://geni.us/PhenomenaA

Follow the Official Phenomena Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Phenomenaconcept/

Phenomena’s #1 hit single, “Did It All For Love”, has been uploaded to YouTube using a fresh transfer from a broadcast master tape:

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

Manticore Records Relaunching Under the Auspices of Regina Lake, Widow of Legendary Greg Lake

A personal statement from Regina

It was always Greg's wish to reinstate the Manticore Records Label.

Greg's idea, in his own words, was to give new, talented musicians the chance to be heard, when other doors might have been closed to them for being different.

Greg was once one such young Musician.

He had put everything in place for Manticore Records to start up again, but as we know, it wasn’t possible for Greg to be there to realise his vision.

Just a few days before Greg died, he asked me if I would like to carry on with Manticore Records, after he had gone?

Greg had already put everything into my name, ready for me to take his place.

He said it was entirely up to me.

If I wasn’t tempted to take it on, I could just let it go.

I told him, as I am sentimental about Manticore, having been there in the early days, I would give it my best, with a lot of help from my friends and advisers, including Greg’s long term manager Stewart Young, and Martin Darvill, co-manager since 2008..

On reflection I would like this label to be devoted to Greg Lake Music and Songs to keep his legacy alive for us all in years to come.

– Regina Lake

The first project will be a definitive collection of Greg Lake’s solo catalogue. Also, watch a rare video of Greg singing “I believe in Father Christmas” live premiering soon here: https://youtu.be/zP33z3lGHyo.

For more information:
https://www.manticorerecords.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ManticoreRecordsOfficial

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

Photo of Greg Lake by Alfred Ligammari

King Crimson Legend David Cross and Composer Andrew Keeling To Release Second Album “October is Marigold”

David Cross is best known as a member of King Crimson on the “Larks’ Tongues in Aspic” and “Starless and Bible Black” albums. He also leads the David Cross Band and has been a guest artist, recording and performing live with a number of international groups including Stick Men.

Andrew Keeling is a composer and musician whose contemporary classical works have been internationally acclaimed. Besides working with David Cross he has also orchestrated the music of Robert Fripp (The Wine of Silence), arranged for Tim Bowness (Abandoned Dancehall Dreams) as well as playing with alt-rock band, The Gong Farmers. Keeling has also written a series of Musical Guides exploring the music of such bands as King Crimson.

“October is Marigold” is the second album from David Cross (electric violin) and Andrew Keeling (flute) and it is the third to appear on Noisy Records’ ‘Electric Chamber Music’ label. Perhaps more strikingly than its predecessors, this recording epitomises the aims of that label to present music designed for an intimate setting which makes use of musical and electronic techniques used in rock. Cross and Keeling’s “English Sun” was released in 2009 (followed by a handful of gigs) and the duo recorded much of “October is Marigold” in the same year. These tracks lay dormant until 2020 when work recommenced on the new album.

Whereas “English Sun” encapsulates the vibrance of summer, “October is Marigold” portrays darker, melancholic autumnal atmospheres. The music is again mostly improvised, the exceptions being a previously written organ part for the title track and two guitar loops. Although the performances are spontaneous there is a clearer sense of architecture here, with the “Marigold” cello/piano theme arching in four incarnations across the album. Nature continues to be an inspiration, with field recordings of birds finding a natural place alongside pizzicato violin and fluttering flute. Cross demonstrates the full potential of the electric violin with, for example, a haunting, muted trumpet-like sound on the title track and the earthy, evocative use of cello pitched violin. Keeling’s flute seems to embody the human response to the realities of nature, breathing, tumbling and bending with the wind. Throughout, there is an uninhibited flow across musical reference points – hints of folk, blues and romance are exposed as the duo travel through this stark autumnal landscape.  

photo by Chiemi Cross

Watch the promotional trailer for “October is Marigold”: https://youtu.be/ymdq6iJVYRw

To purchase or for more information: www.david-cross.com

Facebook: David Cross, https://www.facebook.com/david.cross.33821
Facebook pages: David Cross Music, David Cross Band

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