A Symphonic Journey With Renaissance - Music Legends Renaissance Featuring Annie Haslam To Play Selected Dates With 10-Piece Chamber Orchestra!

Renaissance Fall 2017 US Tour!

Following their successful South American tour, Renaissance featuring Annie Haslam will be back in the US Northeast in October and November 2017 debuting their “Symphonic Journey” tour. This tour will include four very special concerts featuring a “10-piece Chamber Orchestra” (a handpicked assemblage of strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion); October 26th at the Ridgefield Playhouse in Ridgefield CT, October 27th at the Keswick Theater in Glenside PA, Town Hall in New York City October 28th and The Egg in Albany NY on October 29th. These performances will be the first time in 40 years that Renaissance will perform on stage with a “live” orchestra and, in addition, 2017 marks the 48th year since the band's formation and its ninth consecutive year of touring since their reactivation in 2009.

Plans are currently being made for the group to film the October 27th Keswick Theatre show for an upcoming DVD release, which will follow the success of their 2015 London Union Chapel DVD. Additional tour performances without the chamber orchestra are currently being scheduled. A crowd funding campaign has been started to raise the significant funds to produce the new live DVD

For more information: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/renaissance-chamber-orchestra-live-concert-dvd

Renaissance leader and vocalist, Annie Haslam remarks, “The band keeps getting stronger and stronger and the addition of the chamber orchestra will be the most exciting event for the band in years. This addition of 'live' orchestral musicians will add an incredible dynamic to our big numbers like 'Mother Russia,' 'Carpet Of The Sun' and 'Song For All Seasons,' all of which included an orchestra on the original recordings.”

Ms Haslam will be joined on stage by long time musical associate Rave Tesar on piano along with Tom Brislin on keyboards, Mark Lambert on guitars, Frank Pagano on drums and percussion, and Leo Traversa on bass.

Tour dates:
Oct 26 - Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield, CT Tickets RSVP (With 10-Piece Chamber Orchestra)
Oct 27 - Keswick Theatre - Glenside, PA Tickets RSVP (With 10-Piece Chamber Orchestra)
Oct 28 - Town Hall - New York, NY Tickets RSVP  (With 10-Piece Chamber Orchestra)
Oct 29 - The Egg - Albany, NY Tickets RSVP (With 10-Piece Chamber Orchestra)
Nov 01 - City Winery - Boston, MA Tickets RSVP
Nov 02 - Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis, MD Tickets RSVP

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

The band has toured throughout the world and has performed at Carnegie Hall with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and additionally at the Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. Renaissance had a top ten hit in the UK with their song Northern Lights that still demands airplay to this day.

Watch the recent Renaissance/Annie Haslam music video for “Cry to the World” (with Ian Anderson on flute!):

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US Fall 2016

Also making a long awaited return to the Midwest!

Photo: Brian Tirpak

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US in support of their latest DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! Also included are informative band interviews. The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks.

Watch the trailer:

Renaissance Fall 2016 US Tour Dates:

Nov 03 Infinity Music Hall - Hartford, CT Tickets
Nov 04 Tupelo Music Hall - Londonderry, NH Tickets 
Nov 09 Musikfest at ArtsQuest - Bethlehem, PA Tickets  
Nov 10 Tralf Music Hall - Buffalo, NY Tickets  
Nov 11 The Kent Stage - Kent, OH Tickets 
Nov 12 Arcada Theatre - Saint Charles, IL Tickets
Nov 13 Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall - Milwaukee, WI Tickets

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute! They returned to England in April 2016 for another successful tour of concert halls and opera houses.

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch the recent Renaissance/Annie Haslam music video for Cry to the World (with Ian Anderson on flute!):

To purchase the Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD go to: http://renaissancetouring.com/store;
The DVD is also being sold through Amazon. Signed copies by Annie Haslam are also available through the Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” is available at the Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Radio Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US Fall 2016

Also making a long awaited return to the Midwest!

Photo: Brian Tirpak

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US in support of their latest DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! Also included are informative band interviews. The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks.

Watch the trailer:

Renaissance Fall 2016 US Tour Dates:

Nov 03 Infinity Music Hall - Hartford, CT Tickets
Nov 04 Tupelo Music Hall - Londonderry, NH Tickets
Nov 09 Musikfest at ArtsQuest - Bethlehem, PA Tickets
Nov 10 Tralf Music Hall - Buffalo, NY Tickets
Nov 11 The Kent Stage - Kent, OH Tickets
Nov 12 Arcada Theatre - Saint Charles, IL Tickets
Nov 13 Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall - Milwaukee, WI Tickets

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute! They returned to England in April 2016 for another successful tour of concert halls and opera houses.

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch the recent Renaissance/Annie Haslam music video for Cry to the World (with Ian Anderson on flute!):

To purchase the Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD go to: http://renaissancetouring.com/store;
The DVD is also being sold through Amazon. Signed copies by Annie Haslam are also available through the Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” is available at the Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Radio Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US Fall 2016

Also making a long awaited return to the Midwest!

Photo: Brian Tirpak

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US in support of their latest DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! Also included are informative band interviews. The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks.

Watch the trailer:

Renaissance Fall 2016 US Tour Dates:

Nov 03 Infinity Music Hall - Hartford, CT Tickets
Nov 04 Tupelo Music Hall - Londonderry, NH Tickets 
Nov 09 Musikfest at ArtsQuest - Bethlehem, PA Tickets  
Nov 10 Tralf Music Hall - Buffalo, NY Tickets  
Nov 11 The Kent Stage - Kent, OH Tickets 
Nov 12 Arcada Theatre - Saint Charles, IL Tickets
Nov 13 Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall - Milwaukee, WI Tickets

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute! They returned to England in April 2016 for another successful tour of concert halls and opera houses.

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch the recent Renaissance/Annie Haslam music video for Cry to the World (with Ian Anderson on flute!):

To purchase the Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD go to: http://renaissancetouring.com/store;
The DVD is also being sold through Amazon. Signed copies by Annie Haslam are also available through the Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” is available at the Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Radio Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US & UK In Support of New DVD Release “Live at The Union Chapel”

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US & UK in support of their new DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks. A Blu-Ray version is planned in 2016.

Watch the trailer: 

Renaissance Winter 2016 US & UK Tour Dates:

USA
Feb 12 - The Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - tickets
Feb 13 - Keswick Theatre - Glenside, PA - tickets
Feb 19 - The Newton Theatre - Newton, NJ - tickets
Feb 26 -  Renaissance on the Moody Blues Cruise - Miami, FL - tickets

UK - (dates April 17 through 26 with Curved Air)
April 14 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 15 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 17 - Opera House - Buxton
April 18 - The Stables - Milton Keynes
April 19 - Robin 2 - Wolverhampton
April 20 - Academy - Newcastle
April 21 - ABC - Glasgow
April 24 - Academy - Bournemouth
April 26 - Shepherds Bush Empire - London

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch Renaissance's new video for Cry to the World: 

To purchase Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD: http://renaissancetouring.com/store ;
The DVD will also be sold through Amazon. A signed copy by Annie Haslam will be available through Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” will be available at Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Rdio, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US & UK In Support of New DVD Release “Live at The Union Chapel”

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US & UK in support of their new DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks. A Blu-Ray version is planned in 2016.

Watch the trailer: 

Renaissance Winter 2016 US & UK Tour Dates:

USA
Feb 12 - The Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - tickets
Feb 13 - Keswick Theatre - Glenside, PA - tickets
Feb 19 - The Newton Theatre - Newton, NJ - tickets
Feb 26 -  Renaissance on the Moody Blues Cruise - Miami, FL - tickets

UK - (dates April 17 through 26 with Curved Air)
April 14 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 15 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 17 - Opera House - Buxton
April 18 - The Stables - Milton Keynes
April 19 - Robin 2 - Wolverhampton
April 20 - Academy - Newcastle
April 21 - ABC - Glasgow
April 24 - Academy - Bournemouth
April 26 - Shepherds Bush Empire - London

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch Renaissance's new video for Cry to the World: 

To purchase Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD: http://renaissancetouring.com/store ;
The DVD will also be sold through Amazon. A signed copy by Annie Haslam will be available through Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” will be available at Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Rdio, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US & UK In Support of New DVD Release “Live at The Union Chapel”

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US & UK in support of their new DVD release “Live at The Union Chapel”! Filmed at The Union Chapel in London UK on April 16, 2015 by Paul Green Productions, with lighting by Russell 'Tigger' Matthews, the DVD features Renaissance performing such favorite classics as “Carpet of the Sun”, “Ocean Gypsy”, “Mother Russia”, “Ashes are Burning” and newer pieces “Symphony of Light” and “Grandine il Vento” to an ecstatic audience! The DVD is NTSC all-region, with LPCM stereo and Dolby Digital surround audio tracks. A Blu-Ray version is planned in 2016.

Watch the trailer: 

Renaissance Winter 2016 US & UK Tour Dates:

USA
Feb 12 - The Birchmere - Alexandria, VA - tickets
Feb 13 - Keswick Theatre - Glenside, PA - tickets
Feb 19 - The Newton Theatre - Newton, NJ - tickets
Feb 26 -  Renaissance on the Moody Blues Cruise - Miami, FL - tickets

UK - (dates April 17 through 26 with Curved Air)
April 14 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 15 - Trading Boundaries - Fletching
April 17 - Opera House - Buxton
April 18 - The Stables - Milton Keynes
April 19 - Robin 2 - Wolverhampton
April 20 - Academy - Newcastle
April 21 - ABC - Glasgow
April 24 - Academy - Bournemouth
April 26 - Shepherds Bush Empire - London

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn't long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world's most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with 'Northern Lights', which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980's at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled “Symphony of Light”. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe in April 2015, the first in over 35 years! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Watch Renaissance's new video for Cry to the World: 

To purchase Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” DVD: http://renaissancetouring.com/store ;
The DVD will also be sold through Amazon. A signed copy by Annie Haslam will be available through Renaissance online store.
The Audio version of Renaissance “Live at The Union Chapel” will be available at Renaissance online store, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon, Rdio, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, Microsoft Groove, and MediaNet

For more information:
www.renaissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US Fall 2015!

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US in the Fall 2015! Responding to requests from fans, Renaissance will be performing “Song For All Seasons”, “Sounds Of the Sea” and “Northern Lights” along with favorite classics and debuting “Immortal Beloved” from their critically acclaimed “Symphony of Light” album on this tour.

Legendary keyboardist Patrick Moraz, best known for his work with YES and the Moody Blues, as well as his innovative solo career, will be making a special guest appearance with the band at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, NJ on October 9 and 10, 2015!

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with ‘Northern Lights’, which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980’s at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled ‘Symphony of Light’. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe this April, the first in over 35 years! They recorded the London Union Chapel show for a ‘live’ DVD to be released soon! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Renaissance Fall 2015 US Tour Dates:
Oct 08 Landmark Theater - Port Washington, NY
Tickets http://www.landmarkonmainstreet.org/event.cfm?id=262
Oct 09 New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Newark, NJ
Tickets http://www.ticketmaster.com/Renaissance-tickets/artist/735960?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
Oct 10 New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Newark, NJ
Tickets http://www.ticketmaster.com/Renaissance-tickets/artist/735960?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
Oct 11 Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis, MD
Tickets http://www.ramsheadonstage.com/event/877319-renaissance-songs-for-all-our-annapolis
Oct 15 Fairfield Theater Stage One - Fairfield, CT
Tickets https://fairfieldtheatre.org/shows/renaissance
Oct 16 Infinity Music Hall & Bistro - Norfolk, CT
Tickets http://www.infinityhall.com/Events/renaissance-fall-tour-2015-songs-for-all-our-times-featuring-song-for-all-seaso/
Oct 22  Shalin Liu Performance Center - Rockport, MA
Tickets http://rockportmusic.org/renaissance/
Oct 23 Tarrytown Music Hall - Tarrytown, NY
Tickets https://tickets.tarrytownmusichall.org/ordertickets.asp?p=2208

Trailer - 

www.renissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Symphonic Rock Icons Renaissance To Tour The US Fall 2015!

Symphonic rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the US in the Fall 2015! Responding to requests from fans, Renaissance will be performing “Song For All Seasons”, “Sounds Of the Sea” and “Northern Lights” along with favorite classics and debuting “Immortal Beloved” from their critically acclaimed “Symphony of Light” album on this tour.

Legendary keyboardist Patrick Moraz, best known for his work with YES and the Moody Blues, as well as his innovative solo career, will be making a special guest appearance with the band at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, NJ on October 9 and 10, 2015!

Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilized the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with ‘Northern Lights’, which has become a classic radio favorite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980’s at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured the UK, Belgium, Holland, Israel, Portugal, North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled ‘Symphony of Light’. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

Renaissance toured Europe this April, the first in over 35 years! They recorded the London Union Chapel show for a ‘live’ DVD to be released soon! The tour was very successful and the fans loved every minute!

The current personnel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert acoustic guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Renaissance Fall 2015 US Tour Dates:
Oct 08 Landmark Theater - Port Washington, NY
Tickets http://www.landmarkonmainstreet.org/event.cfm?id=262
Oct 09 New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Newark, NJ
Tickets http://www.ticketmaster.com/Renaissance-tickets/artist/735960?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
Oct 10 New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Newark, NJ
Tickets http://www.ticketmaster.com/Renaissance-tickets/artist/735960?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
Oct 11 Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis, MD
Tickets http://www.ramsheadonstage.com/event/877319-renaissance-songs-for-all-our-annapolis
Oct 15 Fairfield Theater Stage One - Fairfield, CT
Tickets https://fairfieldtheatre.org/shows/renaissance
Oct 16 Infinity Music Hall & Bistro - Norfolk, CT
Tickets http://www.infinityhall.com/Events/renaissance-fall-tour-2015-songs-for-all-our-times-featuring-song-for-all-seaso/
Oct 22  Shalin Liu Performance Center - Rockport, MA
Tickets http://rockportmusic.org/renaissance/
Oct 23 Tarrytown Music Hall - Tarrytown, NY
Tickets https://tickets.tarrytownmusichall.org/ordertickets.asp?p=2208

Trailer - 

www.renissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

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

Progressive Rock Legends Renaissance To Tour The UK April 2015!

London, UK – Much to the excitement of music fans in the UK, progressive rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the UK in April 2015! Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilised the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

“In April of this year we will be touring Europe for the first time in over thirty years and we are all extremely excited. It is our goal to chronicle this journey by filming and releasing a new live concert DVD.” - Annie Haslam

Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHRvohYloEo

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with ‘Northern Lights’, which has become a classic radio favourite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980’s at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled ‘Symphony of Light’. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

The current personel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Renaissance UK Tour Dates:

APRIL
14th: MILTON KEYNES, The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8LU www.thestables.org Time tbc Price tbc
16th: LONDON, Union Chapel, 19B Compton Terrace, London N1 2UN Doors 7pm £28.50 (adv) plus bf. 020 7226 1686 http://www.unionchapel.org.uk/
17th: FROME, Cheese & Grain, Market Yard, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BE http://cheeseandgrain.ticketsolve.com/ 18.50 (adv) £22.00 (door). Tickets from b/o 01373 455 420 OR – Raves From The Grave 01373 464 666. Doors 8pm Fully seated event. Support - Amelia Orgill & The Teazle Band
18th: FARNHAM, The Maltings, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7QR 01252 745444 £28/£30 plus bf 8pm https://farnhammaltings.com/
19th: LEAMINGTON SPA, Assembly, Spencer Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3NF, £21.50 7pm Ticketline 0871 220 0260 http://www.leamingtonassembly.com/
21st: WIMBORNE, The Tivoli, West Borough, Wimborne Minster, Dorset BH21 1LT £20 7.30pm http://www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/
23rd: BILSTON, The Robin 2, 20-28 Mount Pleasant, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 7LJ 01902 401211 £20 (adv)/£22 (door) http://www.therobin.co.uk/ Time tbc
24th: ST.HELENS, Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens, Merseyside WA10 1PX 01744 735436 £20 Doors 7.30pm presented in association with the Classic Rock Society http://www.citadel.org.uk/

www.renissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/renaissance-live-in-london-dvd

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

Progressive Rock Legends Renaissance To Tour The UK April 2015!

London, UK – Much to the excitement of music fans in the UK, progressive rock icons Renaissance featuring legendary singer Annie Haslam will be performing in the UK in April 2015! Renaissance is a band with a rich history unique unto themselves as progressive rock pioneers who rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock band, The Yardbirds. Acclaimed for their unique blending of progressive rock with classical and symphonic influences, the band's career has spanned forty plus years spearheaded by the 5 octave voice of Annie Haslam and the masterful songwriting skills of Michael Dunford. They are widely considered to be the band that most successfully and routinely utilised the sound of a full orchestra in their recordings.

“In April of this year we will be touring Europe for the first time in over thirty years and we are all extremely excited. It is our goal to chronicle this journey by filming and releasing a new live concert DVD.” - Annie Haslam

Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHRvohYloEo

In the early years Renaissance toured Europe extensively. It wasn’t long before influential progressive rock stations in the US, such as WNEW (NYC), WMMR (Philadelphia) and WHFS (Washington) were turning on America to Renaissance. Before too long the band started thrilling concertgoers on the world’s most distinguished stages, from Carnegie Hall in NYC with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Royal Albert Hall in London with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Chorale Society. In 1978 they had a top ten hit in the UK with ‘Northern Lights’, which has become a classic radio favourite, still demanding regular airplay to this day.

The band eventually disbanded in the late 1980’s at which time Annie Haslam launched a solo career. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original founding of Renaissance, Michael and Annie in 2009 decided to form a new touring band. More recently they have toured North America, Canada, Japan and South Korea and produced their first album in 13 years entitled ‘Symphony of Light’. The album is a testament to the unforgettable melodies that Michael Dunford infused into his work, Michael died prematurely in 2012.

The current personel of Renaissance include: Annie Haslam lead vocals, Rave Tesar keyboards, Tom Brislin keyboards, Mark Lambert guitars, Leo Traversa bass guitar, and Frank Pagano drums.

Renaissance UK Tour Dates:

APRIL
14th: MILTON KEYNES, The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8LU www.thestables.org Time tbc Price tbc
16th: LONDON, Union Chapel, 19B Compton Terrace, London N1 2UN Doors 7pm £28.50 (adv) plus bf. 020 7226 1686 http://www.unionchapel.org.uk/
17th: FROME, Cheese & Grain, Market Yard, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BE http://cheeseandgrain.ticketsolve.com/ 18.50 (adv) £22.00 (door). Tickets from b/o 01373 455 420 OR – Raves From The Grave 01373 464 666. Doors 8pm Fully seated event. Support - Amelia Orgill & The Teazle Band
18th: FARNHAM, The Maltings, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7QR 01252 745444 £28/£30 plus bf 8pm https://farnhammaltings.com/
19th: LEAMINGTON SPA, Assembly, Spencer Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3NF, £21.50 7pm Ticketline 0871 220 0260 http://www.leamingtonassembly.com/
21st: WIMBORNE, The Tivoli, West Borough, Wimborne Minster, Dorset BH21 1LT £20 7.30pm http://www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/
23rd: BILSTON, The Robin 2, 20-28 Mount Pleasant, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 7LJ 01902 401211 £20 (adv)/£22 (door) http://www.therobin.co.uk/ Time tbc
24th: ST.HELENS, Citadel Arts Centre, Waterloo Street, St Helens, Merseyside WA10 1PX 01744 735436 £20 Doors 7.30pm presented in association with the Classic Rock Society http://www.citadel.org.uk/

www.renissancetouring.com
facebook.com/renaissancetouring
www.anniehaslam.com
facebook.com/anniehaslamart

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/renaissance-live-in-london-dvd

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

Cleopatra Records To Release Two Rare Live Albums By UK Prog Legends Renaissance!

Los Angeles, CA - Cleopatra Records will be releasing two rare live albums by UK progressive rock legends Renaissance. The first release on February 3rd is 'DeLane Lea Studios 1973'; a captivating live-in-the-studio recording from Renaissance performing to a small gathering of friends at the historic DeLane Lea Studios in London (used by everyone from The Beatles to Queen, Jimi Hendrix & Pink Floyd). Beguiling vocalist and ingenue Annie Haslam leads her group through nearly the entire fourth album 'Ashes Are Burning' with special guest appearances by Wishbone Ash's Andy Powell and folk singer Al Stewart!

Track List:
1. Can You Understand
2. Let It Grow
3. Sounds Of The Sea
4. Carpet Of The Sun
5. At The Harbour
6. Ashes Are Burning (with Andy Powell and Al Stewart)
7. Prologue

To purchase Renaissance 'DeLane Lea Studios 1973' CD: http://geni.us/1fQp
iTunes: http://geni.us/1oAT

Renaissance's 'Academy of Music 1974' will be released on March 31st and is an astonishing live performance of the ensemble at the height of their career. The concert showcases the band's latest release at the time 'Ashes Are Burning'. Unlike other prog-rock groups, Renaissance forwent much of the technology in favor of acoustic instruments and orchestral arrangements. Electric guitars and synthesizers were seldom used, giving the band's music more of a symphonic sound.

DISC 1
1. Can You Understand
2. Black Flame
3. Carpet Of The Sun
4. Cold Is Being
5. Things I Don’t Understand
6. Running Hard

DISC 2
1. Ashes Are Burning
2. Mother Russia
3. Prologue

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158

Cleopatra Records To Release Two Rare Live Albums By UK Prog Legends Renaissance!

Los Angeles, CA - Cleopatra Records will be releasing two rare live albums by UK progressive rock legends Renaissance. The first release on February 3rd is 'DeLane Lea Studios 1973'; a captivating live-in-the-studio recording from Renaissance performing to a small gathering of friends at the historic DeLane Lea Studios in London (used by everyone from The Beatles to Queen, Jimi Hendrix & Pink Floyd). Beguiling vocalist and ingenue Annie Haslam leads her group through nearly the entire fourth album 'Ashes Are Burning' with special guest appearances by Wishbone Ash's Andy Powell and folk singer Al Stewart!

Track List:
1. Can You Understand
2. Let It Grow
3. Sounds Of The Sea
4. Carpet Of The Sun
5. At The Harbour
6. Ashes Are Burning (with Andy Powell and Al Stewart)
7. Prologue

To purchase Renaissance 'DeLane Lea Studios 1973' CD: http://geni.us/1fQp
iTunes: http://geni.us/1oAT

Renaissance's 'Academy of Music 1974' will be released on March 31st and is an astonishing live performance of the ensemble at the height of their career. The concert showcases the band's latest release at the time 'Ashes Are Burning'. Unlike other prog-rock groups, Renaissance forwent much of the technology in favor of acoustic instruments and orchestral arrangements. Electric guitars and synthesizers were seldom used, giving the band's music more of a symphonic sound.

DISC 1
1. Can You Understand
2. Black Flame
3. Carpet Of The Sun
4. Cold Is Being
5. Things I Don’t Understand
6. Running Hard

DISC 2
1. Ashes Are Burning
2. Mother Russia
3. Prologue

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158

Symphonic Prog Rock Review: Renaissance-Symphony of Light

Release Date:  15^th April 2014

Label:   Red River Entertainment

Website

Renaissance originally formed back in 1969, and to date, through an evolution of in excess of 30 musicians, they have released 14 studio albums from the self-titled debut in 1969 to the current release, Symphony of Light, 2014. This release follows hard on the heels of Grandine il Vento, released in 2013, and is the same album re-issued plus 3 bonus tracks, one of which is in tribute to Michael Dunford, who passed away after the recording of last years’ album.

The best way to describe the music of Renaissance would be that of symphonic prog and using the adjective majestic would fit in there somewhere as well. The band that recorded the majority of Symphony of Light was a six piece, comprising Annie Haslam (lead vocals), Michael Dunford (guitars), David J Keyes (bass), Rave Tesar (keyboards), Frank Pagano (drums, percussion) and Jason Hart (keyboards) plus some help from Ian Anderson (flute) and John Wetton (vocals).

Renaissance disbanded a few times in their existence, but the latest reincarnation of the band has been active since 2010. They released an EP, The Mystic and the Muse, in that year, and then toured, playing two of their classic albums, Turn of the Cards (1974) and Scheherezade (1975), which was then followed by the release of the CD/DVD of the tour. Symphony of Light, as mentioned, contains a tribute track, specially written by Annie and Rave, “Renaissance Man,” to the late Michael Dunford.

Symphony of Light is an 11 track album with a total playing time of around 67 minutes. The opening, and title track, “Symphony of Light” is the longest on offer at just over 12 minutes (12:08) and the last track, “Renaissance Man” is the shortest at 3:27 minutes.

Opening tracks have a huge weight on their shoulders, as they determine, even if subconsciously, an opinion as to what the album is like. “Symphony of Light” (12:08) is an excellent start to this album, with the emotional, powerful voice of Annie Haslam towering over a background of “strings.” The starting passage is one of those that can set the neck hairs tingling before around 2 minutes, the sound drops away to return with a chiming bell, superb keyboards and simple acoustic guitar. Annie’s voice reappears   above this enhanced background and the track moves on and builds. A change at 4 minutes takes the track in a slightly different direction and the tempo is “upped” by a few degrees. This then leads back into the keyboard/guitar and that voice before a piano gently supplies a little theme in the background and at 6 minutes the piano then gets a chance to “show off.” A very gentle, almost classical, theme then evolves into a “fairground” style keyboard burst before the gentler piano theme returns. Guitar, backed by “strings” then carries the track onto a more urgent staccato style session with sweeping piano ripples. Around 10:30 minutes, there is a return to the earlier guitar/piano/”strings” theme with the return of Annie’s vocal. A stunning opening track ends with just the “strings” and that superb lead vocal.

“Grandine il Vento” (6:29), or “Hail the Wind,” is another stunning chunk of symphonic prog, starting with a keyboard intro heralding the entrance of the superb lead voice supplied by Annie. The background continues to build with some majestic piano melodies and moves into an almost theatrical, operatic style around the 1:45 minute point, which reminded me of the recent release, Invicta, by The Enid. This track dips and soars with some excellent phases from both singer and keyboards and is another very satisfying track.

A continuation of the theatrical symphonic style is apparent on “The Mystic and the Muse” (7:50), which contains all of the previous elements, emotion drenched vocals, stunning keyboards, with a powerful, yet unobtrusive rhythm engine, some shimmering “strings” and subtle interjections of guitar passages, providing an atmospheric soundscape.

The final track on Symphony of Light, “Renaissance Man” (3:27), which is the tribute track, is a very emotionally tinged affair with subdued piano, “strings” and Annie’s voice. “Renaissance Man” is a simple and short but very powerful tribute, which ends a spectacular album.

Having not really kept a close eye, or should that be ear, on Renaissance from the early albums (Turn and Scheherezde mentioned earlier, and the single in 1978, “Northern Lights”), this album has made me think of returning to check out the band’s back catalogue. There are no “fillers” on this album and I would heartily recommend Symphony of Light to anyone who appreciates symphonic prog. The album certainly gets the “One to Buy” sticker, so try to get a listen to this majestic album and then create a small space on your CD shelf to allow it to feel at home.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks:  Symphony Of Light, Grandine il Vento, The Mystic and the Muse

Tracks:
Symphony of Light
Waterfall
Grandine il Vento
Porcelain
Cry To The World
Air of Drama
Blood Silver Like Moonlight
The Mystic and the Muse
Tonight
Immortal Beloved
Renaissance Man

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

July 16, 2014

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Symphonic Prog Rock Review: Renaissance-Symphony of Light

Release Date:  15^th April 2014

Label:   Red River Entertainment

Website

Renaissance originally formed back in 1969, and to date, through an evolution of in excess of 30 musicians, they have released 14 studio albums from the self-titled debut in 1969 to the current release, Symphony of Light, 2014. This release follows hard on the heels of Grandine il Vento, released in 2013, and is the same album re-issued plus 3 bonus tracks, one of which is in tribute to Michael Dunford, who passed away after the recording of last years’ album.

The best way to describe the music of Renaissance would be that of symphonic prog and using the adjective majestic would fit in there somewhere as well. The band that recorded the majority of Symphony of Light was a six piece, comprising Annie Haslam (lead vocals), Michael Dunford (guitars), David J Keyes (bass), Rave Tesar (keyboards), Frank Pagano (drums, percussion) and Jason Hart (keyboards) plus some help from Ian Anderson (flute) and John Wetton (vocals).

Renaissance disbanded a few times in their existence, but the latest reincarnation of the band has been active since 2010. They released an EP, The Mystic and the Muse, in that year, and then toured, playing two of their classic albums, Turn of the Cards (1974) and Scheherezade (1975), which was then followed by the release of the CD/DVD of the tour. Symphony of Light, as mentioned, contains a tribute track, specially written by Annie and Rave, “Renaissance Man,” to the late Michael Dunford.

Symphony of Light is an 11 track album with a total playing time of around 67 minutes. The opening, and title track, “Symphony of Light” is the longest on offer at just over 12 minutes (12:08) and the last track, “Renaissance Man” is the shortest at 3:27 minutes.

Opening tracks have a huge weight on their shoulders, as they determine, even if subconsciously, an opinion as to what the album is like. “Symphony of Light” (12:08) is an excellent start to this album, with the emotional, powerful voice of Annie Haslam towering over a background of “strings.” The starting passage is one of those that can set the neck hairs tingling before around 2 minutes, the sound drops away to return with a chiming bell, superb keyboards and simple acoustic guitar. Annie’s voice reappears   above this enhanced background and the track moves on and builds. A change at 4 minutes takes the track in a slightly different direction and the tempo is “upped” by a few degrees. This then leads back into the keyboard/guitar and that voice before a piano gently supplies a little theme in the background and at 6 minutes the piano then gets a chance to “show off.” A very gentle, almost classical, theme then evolves into a “fairground” style keyboard burst before the gentler piano theme returns. Guitar, backed by “strings” then carries the track onto a more urgent staccato style session with sweeping piano ripples. Around 10:30 minutes, there is a return to the earlier guitar/piano/”strings” theme with the return of Annie’s vocal. A stunning opening track ends with just the “strings” and that superb lead vocal.

“Grandine il Vento” (6:29), or “Hail the Wind,” is another stunning chunk of symphonic prog, starting with a keyboard intro heralding the entrance of the superb lead voice supplied by Annie. The background continues to build with some majestic piano melodies and moves into an almost theatrical, operatic style around the 1:45 minute point, which reminded me of the recent release, Invicta, by The Enid. This track dips and soars with some excellent phases from both singer and keyboards and is another very satisfying track.

A continuation of the theatrical symphonic style is apparent on “The Mystic and the Muse” (7:50), which contains all of the previous elements, emotion drenched vocals, stunning keyboards, with a powerful, yet unobtrusive rhythm engine, some shimmering “strings” and subtle interjections of guitar passages, providing an atmospheric soundscape.

The final track on Symphony of Light, “Renaissance Man” (3:27), which is the tribute track, is a very emotionally tinged affair with subdued piano, “strings” and Annie’s voice. “Renaissance Man” is a simple and short but very powerful tribute, which ends a spectacular album.

Having not really kept a close eye, or should that be ear, on Renaissance from the early albums (Turn and Scheherezde mentioned earlier, and the single in 1978, “Northern Lights”), this album has made me think of returning to check out the band’s back catalogue. There are no “fillers” on this album and I would heartily recommend Symphony of Light to anyone who appreciates symphonic prog. The album certainly gets the “One to Buy” sticker, so try to get a listen to this majestic album and then create a small space on your CD shelf to allow it to feel at home.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks:  Symphony Of Light, Grandine il Vento, The Mystic and the Muse

Tracks:
Symphony of Light
Waterfall
Grandine il Vento
Porcelain
Cry To The World
Air of Drama
Blood Silver Like Moonlight
The Mystic and the Muse
Tonight
Immortal Beloved
Renaissance Man

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

July 16, 2014

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk