Concert Review: YES Featuring ARW Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman

YES Featuring ARW Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman 

The Palace Albany, NY October 5, 2017

 http://yesfeaturingarw.com

Around this time 15 years ago I saw Yes perform in Albany. Then it was the classic lineup. How things change with the passing of time. Since then a lot has happened for the men involved with the legacy of this legendary band. Most significantly, Chris Squire, one the band’s founding members, passed away. The other musicians have remained active.

Now we have Jon Anderson (vocals), Trevor Rabin (guitar, vocals) and Rick Wakeman (keyboards and luminous cape) with Lee Pomeroy (bass) and Louis Molino III (drums) holding down the bottom end.

I sat in some excellent seats in the left orchestra section. The seats were so generously provided by Jamie Carroll of Press Here Publicity.  The Palace is one of my favorite places to go to a concert, it is beautiful and easily accessible from where I reside. I am very grateful for the opportunity to provide coverage.

Yes, is the godfather of Prog Rock as far as this music listener is concerned.

Oddly enough my favorite recording is 90125 which was their most commercial release and their biggest seller. Well, I was in for a treat because a few of those songs were played. I think because Trevor (who recorded 4 studio with Yes) was in the band for that album, it made sense to dive into those tracks. And speaking of godfather’s, Rick Wakeman is and always will be THE ultimate prog rock keyboard master. Everyone else came after him and was influenced in some way by the man.

I was amazed by how fantastic the band sounded, they exceeded my expectations, which were very high prior to entering the venue. Jon Anderson sounded great, as good as ever.  For a gent that is 72 years old he is truly an iconic and inspiring individual. His energy is so positive and he simply owns the audience.

“Cinema” kicked off the evening. This was a great choice to get the crowd into it right from the start. There was no problem with that. The place was packed, which came as no surprise to me. Mr. Rabin is a superb guitar player with a great vocal range as well. His vocals certainly compliment Jon’s and when he takes the helm it sounds powerful and commanding. Of course, Mr. Anderson has one of the most identifiable and unique vocal styles in the world and you immediately recognize no matter where the music of Yes is playing. This is a trademark style so impactful that it is hard to ignore

“Heart of the Sunrise” is a prog rock classic we are all familiar with and it just has to be a part of their set. It was not only done well, it was presented with perfection. Each member clicked as if they have been touring together forever. And I cannot forget to mention how the gents in the back of the stars, Lee Pomeroy (bass) and Louis Molino III (drums), were the quintessential rhythm section that held it all together. They deserve a lot of credit.

I realize their set list does not seem that extensive however we must remember this is prog and each song is musical workout that carries on a good 15 minutes or more with plenty of improvisation. That is the beauty of progressive rock and what I always found so intriguing.

The classic everyone knows, “Roundabout,” was the obvious encore and they did not disappoint. It was a bit shorter than I expected however, that is not a complaint just an observation. We certainly got a good dose of Yes music for the evening and everyone enjoyed the show.

Yes is timeless and legendary with a deep catalog that could keep them touring until they were all 90 years old. Although that is not realistic we all should continue to support them while they are still recording and touring. I will be there, you can count on that!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
October 6, 2017

Set List:
Cinema
Perpetual Change
Hold On
South Side of the Sky
And You and I
Changes
Rhythm of Love
I Am Waiting
Heart of the Sunrise
Awaken
Owner of a Lonely Heart

Encore:
Roundabout
 

Rick Wakeman Launches Pre-Sale Campaign on PledgeMusic For "Crimes of Passion" Limited Edition Deluxe Box Set

London - Keyboard legend Rick Wakeman has launched a pre-sale campaign on PledgeMusic for a very special limited edition Deluxe Box Set of his soundtrack “Crime of Passion”.

Originally released in 1984 “Crimes of Passion” was directed by Ken Russell and starred Kathleen Turner, Anthony Perkins, John Laughlin and Annie Potts. The film explores themes of human relationships and mental illness. A mix of sex and suspense.

“Working with Ken Russell was not only a highlight in my musical life but also a great learning time for me as well….Ken truly understood film and film music like no other. He knew what he wanted, but after telling you then expected you to take his ideas to another level.

“He was always involved and came to stay with me during my writing period. He would listen and make suggestions. He would always be complimentary if you did something he really liked and if he felt something wasn’t working musically he would discuss it with you and explain what he needed for the film.

“I learned so much from Ken and to this day I feel it is a tragedy that in his later years film companies didn’t give him more opportunities to show off his talents.

“ 'Crimes of Passion' is a much deeper film than it has ever been given credit for. It took many years before 'Lisztomania' became cult and recognised for the clever film it was and I class 'Crimes of Passion' in a similar way…

“With every film Ken ever made the viewer and listener has to immerse themselves into every crevice of the work and may take multiple viewings before his genius is truly absorbed.” - Rick Wakeman, New York April 2017

There will only be 250 of this deluxe edition manufactured and each will contain a signed and numbered certificate. There will also be additional signed items and exclusive experiences as part of this pre-order campaign.

Box Set Content:
CD
DVD/BluRay
Signed / numbered Certificate
8 x Repro Lobby Cards A6
Repro Japanese Press Pack
A3 Repro poster
Repro Press Release

Release date 2nd June 2017

For more information and to pre-order please visit this PledgeMusic link:
http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/rick-wakeman-crimes-of-passion

About PledgeMusic:
PledgeMusic is the leading global direct-to-fan platform dedicated to empowering artists, labels and brands to build communities, fund and pre-sell recordings, and provide unique experiences and exclusives throughout the entire music production and promotion lifecycle. PledgeMusic was named as one of The World’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2015 in Music for “Helping artists and fans get what they want”. – Fast Company

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com
(Catch Rick on tour with YES Featuring Anderson, Rabin, Wakeman - http://www.yesfeaturingarw.com/)

Gonzo Multimedia: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/

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

Rick Wakeman Launches Pre-Sale Campaign on PledgeMusic For “Crimes of Passion” Limited Edition Deluxe Box Set

London - Keyboard legend Rick Wakeman has launched a pre-sale campaign on PledgeMusic for a very special limited edition Deluxe Box Set of his soundtrack “Crime of Passion”.

Originally released in 1984 “Crimes of Passion” was directed by Ken Russell and starred Kathleen Turner, Anthony Perkins, John Laughlin and Annie Potts. The film explores themes of human relationships and mental illness. A mix of sex and suspense.

“Working with Ken Russell was not only a highlight in my musical life but also a great learning time for me as well….Ken truly understood film and film music like no other. He knew what he wanted, but after telling you then expected you to take his ideas to another level.

“He was always involved and came to stay with me during my writing period. He would listen and make suggestions. He would always be complimentary if you did something he really liked and if he felt something wasn’t working musically he would discuss it with you and explain what he needed for the film.

“I learned so much from Ken and to this day I feel it is a tragedy that in his later years film companies didn’t give him more opportunities to show off his talents.

“ 'Crimes of Passion' is a much deeper film than it has ever been given credit for. It took many years before 'Lisztomania' became cult and recognised for the clever film it was and I class 'Crimes of Passion' in a similar way…

“With every film Ken ever made the viewer and listener has to immerse themselves into every crevice of the work and may take multiple viewings before his genius is truly absorbed.” - Rick Wakeman, New York April 2017

There will only be 250 of this deluxe edition manufactured and each will contain a signed and numbered certificate. There will also be additional signed items and exclusive experiences as part of this pre-order campaign.

Box Set Content:
CD
DVD/BluRay
Signed / numbered Certificate
8 x Repro Lobby Cards A6
Repro Japanese Press Pack
A3 Repro poster
Repro Press Release

Release date 2nd June 2017

For more information and to pre-order please visit this PledgeMusic link:
http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/rick-wakeman-crimes-of-passion

About PledgeMusic:
PledgeMusic is the leading global direct-to-fan platform dedicated to empowering artists, labels and brands to build communities, fund and pre-sell recordings, and provide unique experiences and exclusives throughout the entire music production and promotion lifecycle. PledgeMusic was named as one of The World’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2015 in Music for “Helping artists and fans get what they want”. – Fast Company

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com
(Catch Rick on tour with YES Featuring Anderson, Rabin, Wakeman - http://www.yesfeaturingarw.com/)

Gonzo Multimedia: http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/

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

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman Launches “Phantom of the Opera” Pledge Music Campaign

 

“Phantom of the Opera” Box Set - get signed items, merchandise and events exclusively here on PledgeMusic.

London, UK - Exclusive to PledgeMusic – For the first time on DVD the Lon Chaney silent movie “Phantom of the Opera” with Rick Wakeman’s Soundtrack together in a Limited Edition Box Set with a signed and numbered certificate.

The legendary 1925 Lon Chaney film is brought to life with a specially commissioned Rick Wakeman soundtrack. This is the first time this version of the film has been issued on DVD, as such the images have been fully restored and the sound track lovingly remastered.

The DVD also has several bonus features;

Rick Wakeman commentary
Christopher Lee introduction
Rick and the Phantom – featurette
Originally trailer

The soundtrack double CD is the original Rick Wakeman unedited soundtrack and contains the original mixes of the songs which are different to what eventually appeared on his album “Phantom Power”.

Special Limited Edition boxset contains:

Single DVD
Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman and numbered certificate
2 x Reproduction Lon Chaney 10˝ x 8˝ photos
4 x A4 Reproduction “Lobby Cards Taken from the original artwork
Pre-Order Now
There will only be 250 of these manufactured.

There are additional items, merchandise and a special screening of the film available too!
http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/rickwakeman-phantom

NOTE Release Date 2nd of December for all items except the vinyl which will be delayed until February 2017due to long manufacturing lead times and the screening which is planned for January 2017

All prices include Postage and Packaging.

1) Double CD / Single DVD of The Phantom of The Opera. – SIGNED by Rick Wakeman
Pre-Order Now

2) The “Phantom of the Opera” Double 180g Vinyl – Gatefold signed by Rick Wakeman. There will only be 250 signed and the pressing will be limited to 500
Due to long manufacturing lead times the Vinyl will not be shipped until February 2017.
Pre-Order Now

3) “Phantom of the Opera poster Signed by Rick Wakeman. There are only 50 of this item available
Pre-Order Now

4) 2CD/1DVD – “Phantom of The Opera”
NTSC/PAL Region 0
Pre-Order Now

5) “Phantom of the Opera” Album download on MP3 or FLAC
Pre-Order Now

6) Exclusive T-Shirt
New design just for pledgers.
Pre-Order Now

7) Special Screening of the “Phantom of the Opera” 
Pre-Order Now
A very special screening will take place in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.

8) VIP Ticket to the screening of “Phantom of The Opera” 
Early access to watch the set up.
Q & A with Rick and the team.
Preferential seating.
To take place in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.
Pre-Order Now

9) Platinum Ticket. + AccessPass
This very special Pledge includes all of the following.
Early access to watch the set up.
Q & A with Rick and the team.
Preferential seating.
Laminate
Box Set
And a Curry at a restaurant with Rick and the team after the screening.
It will be in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.
Pre-Order Now

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman Launches “Phantom of the Opera” Pledge Music Campaign

“Phantom of the Opera” Box Set - get signed items, merchandise and events exclusively here on PledgeMusic.

London, UK - Exclusive to PledgeMusic – For the first time on DVD the Lon Chaney silent movie “Phantom of the Opera” with Rick Wakeman’s Soundtrack together in a Limited Edition Box Set with a signed and numbered certificate.

The legendary 1925 Lon Chaney film is brought to life with a specially commissioned Rick Wakeman soundtrack. This is the first time this version of the film has been issued on DVD, as such the images have been fully restored and the sound track lovingly remastered.

The DVD also has several bonus features;

Rick Wakeman commentary
Christopher Lee introduction
Rick and the Phantom – featurette
Originally trailer

The soundtrack double CD is the original Rick Wakeman unedited soundtrack and contains the original mixes of the songs which are different to what eventually appeared on his album “Phantom Power”.

Special Limited Edition boxset contains:

Single DVD
Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman and numbered certificate
2 x Reproduction Lon Chaney 10˝ x 8˝ photos
4 x A4 Reproduction “Lobby Cards Taken from the original artwork
Pre-Order Now
There will only be 250 of these manufactured.

There are additional items, merchandise and a special screening of the film available too!
http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/rickwakeman-phantom

NOTE Release Date 2nd of December for all items except the vinyl which will be delayed until February 2017due to long manufacturing lead times and the screening which is planned for January 2017

All prices include Postage and Packaging.

1) Double CD / Single DVD of The Phantom of The Opera. – SIGNED by Rick Wakeman
Pre-Order Now

2) The “Phantom of the Opera” Double 180g Vinyl – Gatefold signed by Rick Wakeman. There will only be 250 signed and the pressing will be limited to 500
Due to long manufacturing lead times the Vinyl will not be shipped until February 2017.
Pre-Order Now

3) “Phantom of the Opera poster Signed by Rick Wakeman. There are only 50 of this item available
Pre-Order Now

4) 2CD/1DVD – “Phantom of The Opera”
NTSC/PAL Region 0
Pre-Order Now

5) “Phantom of the Opera” Album download on MP3 or FLAC
Pre-Order Now

6) Exclusive T-Shirt
New design just for pledgers.
Pre-Order Now

7) Special Screening of the “Phantom of the Opera” 
Pre-Order Now
A very special screening will take place in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.

8) VIP Ticket to the screening of “Phantom of The Opera” 
Early access to watch the set up.
Q & A with Rick and the team.
Preferential seating.
To take place in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.
Pre-Order Now

9) Platinum Ticket. + AccessPass
This very special Pledge includes all of the following.
Early access to watch the set up.
Q & A with Rick and the team.
Preferential seating.
Laminate
Box Set
And a Curry at a restaurant with Rick and the team after the screening.
It will be in January, the exact date is TBC but the plan is to have the screening on a weekend ….. at The Regent Street Cinema the birthplace of British Cinema — in 1896 it became the very first place in Britain to show moving pictures when the Lumière brothers’ Cinématographe was presented to a paying audience. It is a landmark venue for the British film industry and provides a historic setting.
Pre-Order Now

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Icon Rick Wakeman and Legendary Astronaut Chris Hadfield Pay Tribute To Stephen Hawking and David Bowie At Starmus Festival 2016

London, UK - In a rare meeting of the minds, keyboard icon Rick Wakeman and legendary astronaut paid tribute to Stephen Hawking at the Starmus Festival in Tenerife, Spain on July 1, 2016! The two legends performed a moving tribute David Bowie with their rendition of his classic song “Space Oddity”.

Watch the video:

The Starmus Festival was born with the aim of making the most universal science and art accessible to the public. Traditionally the perfect symbiosis between astronomy, art and music, STARMUS 2016 brought together not only the brightest minds from these areas but many others besides, as we debate the future of humanity with scientists, business people at the cutting edge, and celebrities of all kinds.

Chris Austin Hadfield is a retired Canadian astronaut who was the first Canadian to walk in space. An engineer and former Royal Canadian Air Force fighter pilot, Hadfield has flown two space shuttle missions and served as commander of the International Space Station.

Commander Hadfield originally performed a cover Bowie's “Space Oddity” on board the International Space Station in 2013. He posted the video on the internet which immediately became a global sensation, being the first ever music video performed in space. Although he had made the video for a number of reasons, Hadfield felt that, “Maybe most importantly, it was a chance to let people see where we truly are in space exploration”. David Bowie himself responded saying that the cover of his 1969 song was “possibly the most poignant version of the song ever created”. The guitar Hadfield used to perform the song is still on the space station where it will remain forever!

Rick Wakeman, who played mellotron on the original version of Bowie's “Space Oddity” says, “It’s a real honour to have played on probably the two most iconic versions of 'Space Oddity', the brilliant original with David of course and now this very special version with Chris that was born 300 miles from planet earth!”

While the Starmus Festival 2016 was paying tribute to Hawking, the promoters also decided to pay tribute to David Bowie! Why? Because Bowie and Hawking share the same birthday - January 8th. Also, Bowie was very much inspired by Space, Astronomy etc… He was invited to Starmus but the invitation arrived the same day he passed…

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

Rick Wakeman - “Rainbow Suite”

Starmus is festival of music and astronomy on the beautiful island of Tenerife. It is the brain child Garik Israelian (The astrophysicist who led the team which found the first observational evidence that supernova explosions are responsible for the formation of stellar mass black holes). Rick Wakeman has made several appearances at this festival. The most notable was in 2014 where he was joined on stage by Dr Brian May, the iconic guitarist from Queen, where Rick Wakeman and English Rock Ensemble performed amongst other tracks from throughout Rick’s career a legendary version of Starship Trooper. This release is a must for all fans of Classic Rock!

This is a brand new orchestral piece written and performed by Rick Wakeman and the Orion Orchestra. This is a specially written piece of therapeutic music designed for people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder to enjoy as well aficionados of good quality instrumental music. This is Rick and Orchestra at their finest !!!

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15964/Rick_Wakeman-Rainbow_Suite.html

Release Date: 25th November 2016

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Icon Rick Wakeman and Legendary Astronaut Chris Hadfield Pay Tribute To Stephen Hawking and David Bowie At Starmus Festival 2016

London, UK - In a rare meeting of the minds, keyboard icon Rick Wakeman and legendary astronaut paid tribute to Stephen Hawking at the Starmus Festival in Tenerife, Spain on July 1, 2016! The two legends performed a moving tribute David Bowie with their rendition of his classic song “Space Oddity”.

Watch the video:

The Starmus Festival was born with the aim of making the most universal science and art accessible to the public. Traditionally the perfect symbiosis between astronomy, art and music, STARMUS 2016 brought together not only the brightest minds from these areas but many others besides, as we debate the future of humanity with scientists, business people at the cutting edge, and celebrities of all kinds.

Chris Austin Hadfield is a retired Canadian astronaut who was the first Canadian to walk in space. An engineer and former Royal Canadian Air Force fighter pilot, Hadfield has flown two space shuttle missions and served as commander of the International Space Station.

Commander Hadfield originally performed a cover Bowie's “Space Oddity” on board the International Space Station in 2013. He posted the video on the internet which immediately became a global sensation, being the first ever music video performed in space. Although he had made the video for a number of reasons, Hadfield felt that, “Maybe most importantly, it was a chance to let people see where we truly are in space exploration”. David Bowie himself responded saying that the cover of his 1969 song was “possibly the most poignant version of the song ever created”. The guitar Hadfield used to perform the song is still on the space station where it will remain forever!

Rick Wakeman, who played mellotron on the original version of Bowie's “Space Oddity” says, “It’s a real honour to have played on probably the two most iconic versions of 'Space Oddity', the brilliant original with David of course and now this very special version with Chris that was born 300 miles from planet earth!”

While the Starmus Festival 2016 was paying tribute to Hawking, the promoters also decided to pay tribute to David Bowie! Why? Because Bowie and Hawking share the same birthday - January 8th. Also, Bowie was very much inspired by Space, Astronomy etc… He was invited to Starmus but the invitation arrived the same day he passed…

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

Rick Wakeman - “Rainbow Suite”

Starmus is festival of music and astronomy on the beautiful island of Tenerife. It is the brain child Garik Israelian (The astrophysicist who led the team which found the first observational evidence that supernova explosions are responsible for the formation of stellar mass black holes). Rick Wakeman has made several appearances at this festival. The most notable was in 2014 where he was joined on stage by Dr Brian May, the iconic guitarist from Queen, where Rick Wakeman and English Rock Ensemble performed amongst other tracks from throughout Rick’s career a legendary version of Starship Trooper. This release is a must for all fans of Classic Rock!

This is a brand new orchestral piece written and performed by Rick Wakeman and the Orion Orchestra. This is a specially written piece of therapeutic music designed for people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder to enjoy as well aficionados of good quality instrumental music. This is Rick and Orchestra at their finest !!!

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15964/Rick_Wakeman-Rainbow_Suite.html

Release Date: 25th November 2016

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Icon Rick Wakeman and Legendary Astronaut Chris Hadfield Pay Tribute To Stephen Hawking and David Bowie At Starmus Festival 2016

London, UK - In a rare meeting of the minds, keyboard icon Rick Wakeman and legendary astronaut paid tribute to Stephen Hawking at the Starmus Festival in Tenerife, Spain on July 1, 2016! The two legends performed a moving tribute David Bowie with their rendition of his classic song “Space Oddity”.

Watch the video:

The Starmus Festival was born with the aim of making the most universal science and art accessible to the public. Traditionally the perfect symbiosis between astronomy, art and music, STARMUS 2016 brought together not only the brightest minds from these areas but many others besides, as we debate the future of humanity with scientists, business people at the cutting edge, and celebrities of all kinds.

Chris Austin Hadfield is a retired Canadian astronaut who was the first Canadian to walk in space. An engineer and former Royal Canadian Air Force fighter pilot, Hadfield has flown two space shuttle missions and served as commander of the International Space Station.

Commander Hadfield originally performed a cover Bowie's “Space Oddity” on board the International Space Station in 2013. He posted the video on the internet which immediately became a global sensation, being the first ever music video performed in space. Although he had made the video for a number of reasons, Hadfield felt that, “Maybe most importantly, it was a chance to let people see where we truly are in space exploration”. David Bowie himself responded saying that the cover of his 1969 song was “possibly the most poignant version of the song ever created”. The guitar Hadfield used to perform the song is still on the space station where it will remain forever!

Rick Wakeman, who played mellotron on the original version of Bowie's “Space Oddity” says, “It’s a real honour to have played on probably the two most iconic versions of 'Space Oddity', the brilliant original with David of course and now this very special version with Chris that was born 300 miles from planet earth!”

While the Starmus Festival 2016 was paying tribute to Hawking, the promoters also decided to pay tribute to David Bowie! Why? Because Bowie and Hawking share the same birthday - January 8th. Also, Bowie was very much inspired by Space, Astronomy etc… He was invited to Starmus but the invitation arrived the same day he passed…

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

Rick Wakeman - “Rainbow Suite”

Starmus is festival of music and astronomy on the beautiful island of Tenerife. It is the brain child Garik Israelian (The astrophysicist who led the team which found the first observational evidence that supernova explosions are responsible for the formation of stellar mass black holes). Rick Wakeman has made several appearances at this festival. The most notable was in 2014 where he was joined on stage by Dr Brian May, the iconic guitarist from Queen, where Rick Wakeman and English Rock Ensemble performed amongst other tracks from throughout Rick’s career a legendary version of Starship Trooper. This release is a must for all fans of Classic Rock!

This is a brand new orchestral piece written and performed by Rick Wakeman and the Orion Orchestra. This is a specially written piece of therapeutic music designed for people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder to enjoy as well aficionados of good quality instrumental music. This is Rick and Orchestra at their finest !!!

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15964/Rick_Wakeman-Rainbow_Suite.html

Release Date: 25th November 2016

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Icon Rick Wakeman To Issue Five New Releases!

London, UK - As prolific as ever, keyboard icon Rick Wakeman will be releasing 5 new titles on the RRAW label through Gonzo MultiMedia in Summer/Fall 2016! Best known for his work with progressive rock legends YES, as well as his illustrious solo career, Rick Wakeman's four new titles to be released are “Starmus 2015”, “Phantom of the Opera”, “Gastank”, “Gospels” and “Rainbow Suite”

Rick Wakeman “Starmus 2015” (with guest appearance by Brian May)

Starmus is festival of music and astronomy on the beautiful island of Tenerife. It is the brain child Garik Israelian (The astrophysicist who led the team which found the first observational evidence that supernova explosions are responsible for the formation of stellar mass black holes). Rick Wakeman has made several appearances at this festival. The most notable was in 2015 where he was joined on stage by Dr Brian May, the iconic guitarist from Queen, where Rick Wakeman and English Rock Ensemble performed amongst other tracks from throughout Rick’s career a legendary version of Starship Trouper. This DVD is a must for all fans of Classic Rock!

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15956
Release Date: 29th July 2016

Rick Wakeman - “The Phantom of the Opera”

The legendary 1925 Lon Chaney film is brought to life with a specially commissioned Rick Wakeman soundtrack. This is the first time this version of the film has being issued on DVD, as such the images have been fully restored and the sound track remastered. The DVD also has several bonus features; Rick Wakeman commentary, Christopher Lee introduction Rick and the Phantom – featurette, original trailer. The soundtrack double CD is the original Rick Wakeman unedited soundtrack and contains the original mixes of the songs which are different to what eventually appeared on his album “Phantom Power”. There are two versions of this project available:

Special Limited Edition boxset containing
Single DVD
Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman
and numbered certificate
2 x Reproduction Lon Chaney
10˝ x 8˝ photos
4 x A4 Reproduction “Lobby Cards” taken from the original artwork
Standard Edition
Single DVD and Double CD

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15959/Rick_Wakeman-Phantom_of_the_Opera_Deluxe_Box_Set.html
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15957/Rick_Wakeman-The_Phantom_of_the_Opera.html
Release Date: 5th August 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Gastank”

Gastank was an English television show that aired between 1982–1983 on Channel 4. Hosted by Rick Wakeman the show featured a mix of interviews with 1970s musicians and impromptu performances where the guest artist would join Rick and his house band in playing re-arranged versions of their classic songs, or entirely new pieces created for the show. The format was very informal with the setting likened to a bar where Wakeman would interview the guest over a drink or two followed by their performance in front of a small studio audience sitting in groups at tables. Wakeman would frequently cite the show as an opportunity for musicians from different bands to get the opportunity to work together. During its run, the show featured guests as diverse as Ian Paice, Steve Hackett, Andy Fairweather Low, John Entwistle, Godley and Creme, Eric Burdon and Phil Lynott. Now for the first time on DVD all the episodes of Gastank along with a CD of these now seminal music performances of Rick and his guests.

Special Limited Edition Boxset containing
Double DVD and a Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman
and numbered certificate
Gastank T Shirt
Rick Wakeman - The Gastank Interviews book
Reproduction AAA pass
Standard Edition
Double DVD and Double CD

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com
For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15960/Rick_Wakeman-Gastank_(DVD).html
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15961/Rick_Wakeman-Gastank_(2CD).html
Release Date: 16th September 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Gospels” (Deluxe Box Set)

The Gospels evolved because Rick Wakeman was asked to perform at an organ recital to raise money for the Camberley United Reform Church, which was in desperate need of a new organ. Rick pondered what to play and the more he thought about it and what the evening should mean, the more he felt that something very special was about to take place. Thoughts of the New Testament kept creeping into his mind and he decided to write an instrumental piece to the settings of the four Gospels. He began working but after a couple of hours realised that there was no way he was going to get across the feelings he wished to portray without singing. The music seemed to cry out for an operatic tenor. Amazingly enough, just a few weeks earlier, Rick had met the famous tenor Ramon Remedios at a charity concert in which they both performed and he plucked up courage to ask him if he would kindly agree to perform the New Gospels with him. The concert was a tremendous success and Ramon’s feeling and understanding of the music moved many people to tears. The complete Gospels is a limited edition box set containing all the known recordings of the project both audio and visual. Along with a reproduction A4 x 12 page concert program.

Special Limited Edition Boxset containing
Signed by Rick Wakeman and numbered certificate
DVD containing over 2 hours of footage including an in depth interview with Rick about the project.
Double CD 1, The Original Gospels - with Robert Powell as the Narrator
Double CD2, The New Gospels DVD / CD of The Gospels performed live in California – never seen before
Reproduction A4 x 12 page concert program

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15963/Rick_Wakeman%20Gospels_(Deluxe_Box_Set).html
Release Date: 21st October 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Rainbow Suite”

This is a brand new orchestral piece written and performed by Rick Wakeman and the Orion Orchestra. This is a specially written piece of therapeutic music designed for people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder to enjoy as well aficionados of good quality instrumental music. This is Rick and Orchestra at their finest !!!

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com
For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15964/Rick_Wakeman-Rainbow_Suite.html
Release Date: 25th November 2016

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Keyboard Icon Rick Wakeman To Issue Five New Releases!

London, UK - As prolific as ever, keyboard icon Rick Wakeman will be releasing 5 new titles on the RRAW label through Gonzo MultiMedia in Summer/Fall 2016! Best known for his work with progressive rock legends YES, as well as his illustrious solo career, Rick Wakeman's four new titles to be released are “Starmus 2015”, “Phantom of the Opera”, “Gastank”, “Gospels” and “Rainbow Suite”

Rick Wakeman “Starmus 2015” (with guest appearance by Brian May)

Starmus is festival of music and astronomy on the beautiful island of Tenerife. It is the brain child Garik Israelian (The astrophysicist who led the team which found the first observational evidence that supernova explosions are responsible for the formation of stellar mass black holes). Rick Wakeman has made several appearances at this festival. The most notable was in 2015 where he was joined on stage by Dr Brian May, the iconic guitarist from Queen, where Rick Wakeman and English Rock Ensemble performed amongst other tracks from throughout Rick’s career a legendary version of Starship Trouper. This DVD is a must for all fans of Classic Rock!

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15956
Release Date: 29th July 2016

Rick Wakeman - “The Phantom of the Opera”

The legendary 1925 Lon Chaney film is brought to life with a specially commissioned Rick Wakeman soundtrack. This is the first time this version of the film has being issued on DVD, as such the images have been fully restored and the sound track remastered. The DVD also has several bonus features; Rick Wakeman commentary, Christopher Lee introduction Rick and the Phantom – featurette, original trailer. The soundtrack double CD is the original Rick Wakeman unedited soundtrack and contains the original mixes of the songs which are different to what eventually appeared on his album “Phantom Power”. There are two versions of this project available:

Special Limited Edition boxset containing
Single DVD
Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman
and numbered certificate
2 x Reproduction Lon Chaney
10˝ x 8˝ photos
4 x A4 Reproduction “Lobby Cards” taken from the original artwork
Standard Edition
Single DVD and Double CD

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15959/Rick_Wakeman-Phantom_of_the_Opera_Deluxe_Box_Set.html
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15957/Rick_Wakeman-The_Phantom_of_the_Opera.html
Release Date: 5th August 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Gastank”

Gastank was an English television show that aired between 1982–1983 on Channel 4. Hosted by Rick Wakeman the show featured a mix of interviews with 1970s musicians and impromptu performances where the guest artist would join Rick and his house band in playing re-arranged versions of their classic songs, or entirely new pieces created for the show. The format was very informal with the setting likened to a bar where Wakeman would interview the guest over a drink or two followed by their performance in front of a small studio audience sitting in groups at tables. Wakeman would frequently cite the show as an opportunity for musicians from different bands to get the opportunity to work together. During its run, the show featured guests as diverse as Ian Paice, Steve Hackett, Andy Fairweather Low, John Entwistle, Godley and Creme, Eric Burdon and Phil Lynott. Now for the first time on DVD all the episodes of Gastank along with a CD of these now seminal music performances of Rick and his guests.

Special Limited Edition Boxset containing
Double DVD and a Double CD
Signed by Rick Wakeman
and numbered certificate
Gastank T Shirt
Rick Wakeman - The Gastank Interviews book
Reproduction AAA pass
Standard Edition
Double DVD and Double CD

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com
For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15960/Rick_Wakeman-Gastank_(DVD).html
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15961/Rick_Wakeman-Gastank_(2CD).html
Release Date: 16th September 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Gospels” (Deluxe Box Set)

The Gospels evolved because Rick Wakeman was asked to perform at an organ recital to raise money for the Camberley United Reform Church, which was in desperate need of a new organ. Rick pondered what to play and the more he thought about it and what the evening should mean, the more he felt that something very special was about to take place. Thoughts of the New Testament kept creeping into his mind and he decided to write an instrumental piece to the settings of the four Gospels. He began working but after a couple of hours realised that there was no way he was going to get across the feelings he wished to portray without singing. The music seemed to cry out for an operatic tenor. Amazingly enough, just a few weeks earlier, Rick had met the famous tenor Ramon Remedios at a charity concert in which they both performed and he plucked up courage to ask him if he would kindly agree to perform the New Gospels with him. The concert was a tremendous success and Ramon’s feeling and understanding of the music moved many people to tears. The complete Gospels is a limited edition box set containing all the known recordings of the project both audio and visual. Along with a reproduction A4 x 12 page concert program.

Special Limited Edition Boxset containing
Signed by Rick Wakeman and numbered certificate
DVD containing over 2 hours of footage including an in depth interview with Rick about the project.
Double CD 1, The Original Gospels - with Robert Powell as the Narrator
Double CD2, The New Gospels DVD / CD of The Gospels performed live in California – never seen before
Reproduction A4 x 12 page concert program

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15963/Rick_Wakeman%20Gospels_(Deluxe_Box_Set).html
Release Date: 21st October 2016

Rick Wakeman - “Rainbow Suite”

This is a brand new orchestral piece written and performed by Rick Wakeman and the Orion Orchestra. This is a specially written piece of therapeutic music designed for people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder to enjoy as well aficionados of good quality instrumental music. This is Rick and Orchestra at their finest !!!

Available to pre-order from www.rickwakemansmusicemporium.com
For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15964/Rick_Wakeman-Rainbow_Suite.html
Release Date: 25th November 2016

Catch Rick Wakeman on tour with ARW (Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin & Rick Wakeman) this Fall 2016! http://www.arw-tour.com/

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

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

Prog Keyboardist/Composer Leon Alvarado To Release New Concept Album “The Future Left Behind” Feat. YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood!

Houston, TX – Hot on the heels of his critically acclaimed third album “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”, keyboardist/composer Leon Alvarado will be releasing his new album “The Future Left Behind” on July 30, 2016! The highly anticipated new concept album features guest appearances by YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood, as well as Johnny Bruhn (CIRCA:) and Steve Thamer.

According to Leon, “The idea of creating a concept album out of instrumental progressive rock music had appealed to me ever since I first heard Rick Wakeman's 'Journey To The Centre of The Earth'. What I found difficult was to create all the individual pieces that would unify the set of ideas into a single concept. It meant for me to come up with a story, some music and a set of visuals that together would form an inclusive experience. I started by working on music that had more of a cinematic feel than my usual, meaning that when played, it evokes certain imagery in the listener's mind.”

Says Leon, “My goal was to create something that would combine the artwork and the music into one cohesive vision. I thought that basing my project on a sci-fi story would be very fitting and would give me the necessary creative space to make music that entices the imagination, like what Vangelis', Rick Wakeman's and YES' music do for me.”

Billy Sherwood had this to say about his participation on the album, “It was my pleasure to be a part of Leon's new record… I had a blast working on it and I'm sure fans of great music are going to enjoy this new record!”

Leon's first album, “Plays Genesis and Other Original Stuff,” drew on his strongest musical influences, primarily, the many styles in Genesis's lengthy career. By the time Leon released his second album, “Strangers in Strange Places,” he had refined his method and his vision, and it's the audience who wins. “Strangers” features Brand X's John Goodsall on guitar and the legendary drummer Bill Bruford (YES, King Crimson, Earthwork) and reveals an intertwining of progressive rock and ambient textural sound that blossoms in, “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”. For this third release, he enlisted the talents of Trey Gunn (King Crimson) and Jerry Marotta (Peter Gabriel, Hall and Oats).

And now, much to the excitement of Prog fans worldwide, Leon is set to release his latest masterpiece, “The Future Left Behind.” In regards to the guest performers, Leon explains, “To help the story along and properly set the pieces of music we recorded some narrated bits. I wanted a voice with a large presence. A deep resonating voice that more or less commands to be heard. Steve Thamer is a Canadian voice-over talent who majored in Classical Theatre and has work doing voice-overs for audio books, films and animated shorts.

“As for Billy Sherwood, I envisioned his involvement in the project from the outset. He played a big part in the recording and helped me in elevating the music as a whole. Billy is very down to earth and has to be one of the hardest working musicians I have ever met. He is also extremely proficient and doesn't waste any time when it comes to getting things down musically.

“During one of my visits to California I went to see Billy's other band CIRCA:. The guitar player was Johnny Bruhn. I've seen many people perform YES music before but Johnny's guitar playing captured the feel of it so well that it left an impression on me. When this album was conceived, I knew I would have a place for him.

“I have the greatest respect for all the people involved in the project. I must admit that when it came to working with Rick Wakeman, I was a bit nervous at first. But in the end, it was one of those 'pinch me' moments that worked brilliantly. It's not everyday that you have one of your musical heroes performing on a piece you composed.

“The last person to touch the material was Andy Jackson. This is my third project working with him and I couldn't be happier about it. Andy is better known as Pink Floyd's engineer of 30 years and his work has been nominated twice for Grammys. He won two British Hi-Fi Awards for his work with Pink Floyd and was a co-producer for 'The Endless River' album. What I really like about Andy's work is his personal taste for sound. To me he is truly a magician at the controls.”

For the fans, although also available as a digital download, the CD version of the album has the most to offer. Leon envisioned the album to be something more than just a set of musical pieces. Instead, he immerses the listener in the world he has conceived through music, story and imagery, and allows their own imagination to fill in the details, creating a very personalized experience for each. “It is the most ambitious album I have created so far. 'The Future Left Behind' speaks to those who like Science-fiction stories and futuristic artwork. Like many of my projects, my approach is always to create something that I would want to see.”

Tracks:

1. PREFACE 1:16
2. LAUNCH OVERTURE 6:10
3. A VOYAGE… 0:49
4. JOURNEY INTO SPACE 2:39
5. WEIGHTLESS 2:24
6. HARD CHOICES 0:50
7. THE ONES LEFT BEHIND 6:14
8. LIFE IN THE OUTSIDE 0:55
9. AMONG THE STARS 6:06
10. MUCH ADO ABOUT… 0:36
11. IN OUR QUIET ORBIT 6:36
12. TO BE LOVED 2:43
13. A SILVER LINING 0:39
14. THE STAR SEEKERS 3:28

Leon Alvarado: Keyboards, sequencing, drums, percussion, launch control voices
Billy Sherwood: Lead and rhythm guitars on all except for “To Be Loved”
Rick Wakeman: Moog solo on “Launch Overture” and extra keyboards
Johnny Bruhns: Acoustic guitar on “To Be Loved”
Steve Thamer: Narration

Produced and mixed by: Leon Alvarado
Guitar tracks produced by: Billy Sherwood
Mastered by: Andy Jackson / Tube Mastering
All songs by Leon Alvarado
except “To Be Loved” by Johnny Bruhns and Leon Alvarado
Based on “The Future Left Behind”, an original short story by Leon Alvarado
Design and Illustrations: Synergy Design / LA

To purchase:
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/leonalvarado5
http://mrrmusic.com/leon-alvarado/
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/leon-alvarado/id304356695

For more information:
www.melodicrevolution.com
www.leonplaysmusic.com

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

Prog Keyboardist/Composer Leon Alvarado To Release New Concept Album “The Future Left Behind” Feat. YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood!

Houston, TX – Hot on the heels of his critically acclaimed third album “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”, keyboardist/composer Leon Alvarado will be releasing his new album “The Future Left Behind” on July 30, 2016! The highly anticipated new concept album features guest appearances by YES Legends Rick Wakeman & Billy Sherwood, as well as Johnny Bruhn (CIRCA:) and Steve Thamer.

According to Leon, “The idea of creating a concept album out of instrumental progressive rock music had appealed to me ever since I first heard Rick Wakeman's 'Journey To The Centre of The Earth'. What I found difficult was to create all the individual pieces that would unify the set of ideas into a single concept. It meant for me to come up with a story, some music and a set of visuals that together would form an inclusive experience. I started by working on music that had more of a cinematic feel than my usual, meaning that when played, it evokes certain imagery in the listener's mind.”

Says Leon, “My goal was to create something that would combine the artwork and the music into one cohesive vision. I thought that basing my project on a sci-fi story would be very fitting and would give me the necessary creative space to make music that entices the imagination, like what Vangelis', Rick Wakeman's and YES' music do for me.”

Billy Sherwood had this to say about his participation on the album, “It was my pleasure to be a part of Leon's new record… I had a blast working on it and I'm sure fans of great music are going to enjoy this new record!”

Leon's first album, “Plays Genesis and Other Original Stuff,” drew on his strongest musical influences, primarily, the many styles in Genesis's lengthy career. By the time Leon released his second album, “Strangers in Strange Places,” he had refined his method and his vision, and it's the audience who wins. “Strangers” features Brand X's John Goodsall on guitar and the legendary drummer Bill Bruford (YES, King Crimson, Earthwork) and reveals an intertwining of progressive rock and ambient textural sound that blossoms in, “2014, Music from an Expanded Universe”. For this third release, he enlisted the talents of Trey Gunn (King Crimson) and Jerry Marotta (Peter Gabriel, Hall and Oats).

And now, much to the excitement of Prog fans worldwide, Leon is set to release his latest masterpiece, “The Future Left Behind.” In regards to the guest performers, Leon explains, “To help the story along and properly set the pieces of music we recorded some narrated bits. I wanted a voice with a large presence. A deep resonating voice that more or less commands to be heard. Steve Thamer is a Canadian voice-over talent who majored in Classical Theatre and has work doing voice-overs for audio books, films and animated shorts.

“As for Billy Sherwood, I envisioned his involvement in the project from the outset. He played a big part in the recording and helped me in elevating the music as a whole. Billy is very down to earth and has to be one of the hardest working musicians I have ever met. He is also extremely proficient and doesn't waste any time when it comes to getting things down musically.

“During one of my visits to California I went to see Billy's other band CIRCA:. The guitar player was Johnny Bruhn. I've seen many people perform YES music before but Johnny's guitar playing captured the feel of it so well that it left an impression on me. When this album was conceived, I knew I would have a place for him.

“I have the greatest respect for all the people involved in the project. I must admit that when it came to working with Rick Wakeman, I was a bit nervous at first. But in the end, it was one of those 'pinch me' moments that worked brilliantly. It's not everyday that you have one of your musical heroes performing on a piece you composed.

“The last person to touch the material was Andy Jackson. This is my third project working with him and I couldn't be happier about it. Andy is better known as Pink Floyd's engineer of 30 years and his work has been nominated twice for Grammys. He won two British Hi-Fi Awards for his work with Pink Floyd and was a co-producer for 'The Endless River' album. What I really like about Andy's work is his personal taste for sound. To me he is truly a magician at the controls.”

For the fans, although also available as a digital download, the CD version of the album has the most to offer. Leon envisioned the album to be something more than just a set of musical pieces. Instead, he immerses the listener in the world he has conceived through music, story and imagery, and allows their own imagination to fill in the details, creating a very personalized experience for each. “It is the most ambitious album I have created so far. 'The Future Left Behind' speaks to those who like Science-fiction stories and futuristic artwork. Like many of my projects, my approach is always to create something that I would want to see.”

Tracks:

1. PREFACE 1:16
2. LAUNCH OVERTURE 6:10
3. A VOYAGE… 0:49
4. JOURNEY INTO SPACE 2:39
5. WEIGHTLESS 2:24
6. HARD CHOICES 0:50
7. THE ONES LEFT BEHIND 6:14
8. LIFE IN THE OUTSIDE 0:55
9. AMONG THE STARS 6:06
10. MUCH ADO ABOUT… 0:36
11. IN OUR QUIET ORBIT 6:36
12. TO BE LOVED 2:43
13. A SILVER LINING 0:39
14. THE STAR SEEKERS 3:28

Leon Alvarado: Keyboards, sequencing, drums, percussion, launch control voices
Billy Sherwood: Lead and rhythm guitars on all except for “To Be Loved”
Rick Wakeman: Moog solo on “Launch Overture” and extra keyboards
Johnny Bruhns: Acoustic guitar on “To Be Loved”
Steve Thamer: Narration

Produced and mixed by: Leon Alvarado
Guitar tracks produced by: Billy Sherwood
Mastered by: Andy Jackson / Tube Mastering
All songs by Leon Alvarado
except “To Be Loved” by Johnny Bruhns and Leon Alvarado
Based on “The Future Left Behind”, an original short story by Leon Alvarado
Design and Illustrations: Synergy Design / LA

To purchase:
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/leonalvarado5
http://mrrmusic.com/leon-alvarado/
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/leon-alvarado/id304356695

For more information:
www.melodicrevolution.com
www.leonplaysmusic.com

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

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman To Release “Starship Trooper” Compilation Feat. Steve Hillage, Nik Turner, Steve Howe, William Shatner and Others!

Los Angeles – On April 15th Purple Pyramid records will be releasing an out of this world collection of extraordinary performances by legendary YES keyboardist Rick Wakeman! For more than four decades Rick Wakeman has established himself as a visionary showman without peer, the creator of some of the most extravagant performances, breathtaking soloing and imaginative passages ever preserved on record, or executed on stage.

Aptly titled “Starship Trooper”, this amazing collection contains 2 previously unreleased tracks including a powerful rendition of Tool's “Sober” plus several more brilliant cover songs of The Who, Pink Floyd, and The Doors including 5 never before heard versions! The compilation also includes performances by Gong’s Steve Hillage, Yes's Billy Sherwood, Steve Howe and Tony Kaye, William Shatner, Colin Moulding, Jerry Goodman, Nik Turner, Carmine Appice and more!

“Over the last few years I have performed on many tracks as a 'guest' but never before has anybody put some of the best of those I played on into a compilation. It's always challenging to be involved in tracks of other people's music and other people's arrangements as it often makes you think and play differently and certainly on many of these tracks I play in quite an unexpected way, but there again, much of my life has been pretty unexpected anyway!” - Rick Wakeman

The liner notes were written by modern rock scholar Dave Thompson, who says of Rick Wakeman, “This most personable of superstars has made inroads into the worlds of journalism, broadcasting and acting - professions which his eye for spectacle, story telling and stylishness might well have made inevitable all along. But he also happens to be among the most gifted, visionary and brilliant performers his chosen instruments have seen.”

Track List:
1. Sober
2. Are We To Believe
3. Random Acts (Revisited)
4. Dynamics Of Delirium
5. Love Reign O'er Me
6. Crime Of The Century
7. The Great Gig In The Sky
8. I'm Not in Love
9. Starship Trooper
10. Check Point Karma
11. Change
12. Nobody Home
13. Light My Fire

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/RickWakemanCD
Download the digital version: http://flyt.it/RickWakemanDig

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

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

Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman To Release “Starship Trooper” Compilation Feat. Steve Hillage, Nik Turner, Steve Howe, William Shatner and Others!

Los Angeles – On April 15th Purple Pyramid records will be releasing an out of this world collection of extraordinary performances by legendary YES keyboardist Rick Wakeman! For more than four decades Rick Wakeman has established himself as a visionary showman without peer, the creator of some of the most extravagant performances, breathtaking soloing and imaginative passages ever preserved on record, or executed on stage.

Aptly titled “Starship Trooper”, this amazing collection contains 2 previously unreleased tracks including a powerful rendition of Tool's “Sober” plus several more brilliant cover songs of The Who, Pink Floyd, and The Doors including 5 never before heard versions! The compilation also includes performances by Gong’s Steve Hillage, Yes's Billy Sherwood, Steve Howe and Tony Kaye, William Shatner, Colin Moulding, Jerry Goodman, Nik Turner, Carmine Appice and more!

“Over the last few years I have performed on many tracks as a 'guest' but never before has anybody put some of the best of those I played on into a compilation. It's always challenging to be involved in tracks of other people's music and other people's arrangements as it often makes you think and play differently and certainly on many of these tracks I play in quite an unexpected way, but there again, much of my life has been pretty unexpected anyway!” - Rick Wakeman

The liner notes were written by modern rock scholar Dave Thompson, who says of Rick Wakeman, “This most personable of superstars has made inroads into the worlds of journalism, broadcasting and acting - professions which his eye for spectacle, story telling and stylishness might well have made inevitable all along. But he also happens to be among the most gifted, visionary and brilliant performers his chosen instruments have seen.”

Track List:
1. Sober
2. Are We To Believe
3. Random Acts (Revisited)
4. Dynamics Of Delirium
5. Love Reign O'er Me
6. Crime Of The Century
7. The Great Gig In The Sky
8. I'm Not in Love
9. Starship Trooper
10. Check Point Karma
11. Change
12. Nobody Home
13. Light My Fire

Rick Wakeman's official website: http://www.rwcc.com/

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/RickWakemanCD
Download the digital version: http://flyt.it/RickWakemanDig

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

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

Bonzo Dog Band's Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” Soundtrack by Michael Livesley and Brainwashing House feat. Rick Wakeman and Neil Innes To Be Released

“A tour-de-force and a work of Art” - Neil Innes

London, UK - Vivian Stanshall, widely acknowledged as one of the most influential recording artists of the 20th Century may sadly no longer be with us but the incredible words he created live on via the celebrated rave-reviewed recreation of his meisterwerk 'Sir Henry at Rawlinson End' by actor, singer and comedian Michael Livesley accompanied by his trusted Brainwashing House band.

Originally created for John Peel's Radio 1 show in the 1970's, Sir Henry at Rawlinson End - the meandering gin-soaked saga of a crumbling English stately home and the grotesques who inhabit it headed by the heroically drunk Sir Henry - perfectly distilled and encapsulated Viv's absurdly hilarious wordplay and songwriting which first hit the public consciousness during the 1960s via his work helming the cult Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.

The show, now in its 6th year and with the full blessing of the Stanshall family, has earned the praise of Viv's fans, friends and celebrity fans alike including keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman who, due to his admiration for Michael's interpretation, has joined the show on piano as a guest many times. This has led to RRAW Records, the exciting new label from Rick and music industry veteran Robin Ayling, proudly presenting this brand new original cast recording of this critically acclaimed stage show as their debut LP release. The recording features Rick guesting on piano, and also Viv's Bonzo bandmate and sometime Rutle and Monty Python member Neil Innes plus Viv's favourite violinist Susie Honeyman of The Mekons.

Tracks:
1. Aunt Florrie's Waltz
2. Interlewd
3. Wheelbarrow
4. Socks
5. The Rub
6. Nice 'N' Tidy
7. Pigs 'Ere Purse
8. 6/8 Hoodoo
9. Smeeton
10. Fool & Bladder
11. Endroar
12. The Beasht Inshide
13. Junglebunny
14. Aunt Florrie Remembers
15. Rawlinsons & Maynards
16. Papadumb

Here's what's being said about Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End”:

“Michael Livesley embodies to perfection the spirit and brilliance of Vivian Stanshall and adds his own measure of outrageous talent too” – Stephen Fry

“Sir Henry's bluster and his epic lack of drawing room manners are still winning fun. All very odd, all very Stanshall!” - Clive Davis, The Times

“A work of lyrical genius and poetry, on a different plane to the rest of the world” - Rick Wakeman

“What a night, an ensemble of madmen at their best, smashing!” - Rupert Stanshall, Vivian's son

“Brilliant! Berserk! Simply wonderful!” - Suzanne Moore, The Guardian

“Livesley's performance gives weight and truth to that old theatrical cliché - a comic tour-de-force” - Andrew Male, MOJO

“A distorted-mirror celebration of English eccentricity rooted in a riot of linguistic lasciviousness” - Andy Gill, The Independent

For more information please visit www.sirhenrylives.com

Videos:
“Wheelbarrow” (one of the show numbers) -

“Ginger Geezer” (encore from big London show) -

To purchase Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” soundtrack:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01ACJKQ7A/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_7jf9wb19C1BVF

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

Bonzo Dog Band's Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” Soundtrack by Michael Livesley and Brainwashing House feat. Rick Wakeman and Neil Innes To Be Released

“A tour-de-force and a work of Art” - Neil Innes

London, UK - Vivian Stanshall, widely acknowledged as one of the most influential recording artists of the 20th Century may sadly no longer be with us but the incredible words he created live on via the celebrated rave-reviewed recreation of his meisterwerk 'Sir Henry at Rawlinson End' by actor, singer and comedian Michael Livesley accompanied by his trusted Brainwashing House band.

Originally created for John Peel's Radio 1 show in the 1970's, Sir Henry at Rawlinson End - the meandering gin-soaked saga of a crumbling English stately home and the grotesques who inhabit it headed by the heroically drunk Sir Henry - perfectly distilled and encapsulated Viv's absurdly hilarious wordplay and songwriting which first hit the public consciousness during the 1960s via his work helming the cult Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.

The show, now in its 6th year and with the full blessing of the Stanshall family, has earned the praise of Viv's fans, friends and celebrity fans alike including keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman who, due to his admiration for Michael's interpretation, has joined the show on piano as a guest many times. This has led to RRAW Records, the exciting new label from Rick and music industry veteran Robin Ayling, proudly presenting this brand new original cast recording of this critically acclaimed stage show as their debut LP release. The recording features Rick guesting on piano, and also Viv's Bonzo bandmate and sometime Rutle and Monty Python member Neil Innes plus Viv's favourite violinist Susie Honeyman of The Mekons.

Tracks:
1. Aunt Florrie's Waltz
2. Interlewd
3. Wheelbarrow
4. Socks
5. The Rub
6. Nice 'N' Tidy
7. Pigs 'Ere Purse
8. 6/8 Hoodoo
9. Smeeton
10. Fool & Bladder
11. Endroar
12. The Beasht Inshide
13. Junglebunny
14. Aunt Florrie Remembers
15. Rawlinsons & Maynards
16. Papadumb

Here's what's being said about Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End”:

“Michael Livesley embodies to perfection the spirit and brilliance of Vivian Stanshall and adds his own measure of outrageous talent too” – Stephen Fry

“Sir Henry's bluster and his epic lack of drawing room manners are still winning fun. All very odd, all very Stanshall!” - Clive Davis, The Times

“A work of lyrical genius and poetry, on a different plane to the rest of the world” - Rick Wakeman

“What a night, an ensemble of madmen at their best, smashing!” - Rupert Stanshall, Vivian's son

“Brilliant! Berserk! Simply wonderful!” - Suzanne Moore, The Guardian

“Livesley's performance gives weight and truth to that old theatrical cliché - a comic tour-de-force” - Andrew Male, MOJO

“A distorted-mirror celebration of English eccentricity rooted in a riot of linguistic lasciviousness” - Andy Gill, The Independent

For more information please visit www.sirhenrylives.com

Videos:
“Wheelbarrow” (one of the show numbers) -

“Ginger Geezer” (encore from big London show) -

To purchase Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” soundtrack:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01ACJKQ7A/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_7jf9wb19C1BVF

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

Bonzo Dog Band's Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” Soundtrack by Michael Livesley and Brainwashing House feat. Rick Wakeman and Neil Innes To Be Released

“A tour-de-force and a work of Art” - Neil Innes

London, UK - Vivian Stanshall, widely acknowledged as one of the most influential recording artists of the 20th Century may sadly no longer be with us but the incredible words he created live on via the celebrated rave-reviewed recreation of his meisterwerk 'Sir Henry at Rawlinson End' by actor, singer and comedian Michael Livesley accompanied by his trusted Brainwashing House band.

Originally created for John Peel's Radio 1 show in the 1970's, Sir Henry at Rawlinson End - the meandering gin-soaked saga of a crumbling English stately home and the grotesques who inhabit it headed by the heroically drunk Sir Henry - perfectly distilled and encapsulated Viv's absurdly hilarious wordplay and songwriting which first hit the public consciousness during the 1960s via his work helming the cult Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.

The show, now in its 6th year and with the full blessing of the Stanshall family, has earned the praise of Viv's fans, friends and celebrity fans alike including keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman who, due to his admiration for Michael's interpretation, has joined the show on piano as a guest many times. This has led to RRAW Records, the exciting new label from Rick and music industry veteran Robin Ayling, proudly presenting this brand new original cast recording of this critically acclaimed stage show as their debut LP release. The recording features Rick guesting on piano, and also Viv's Bonzo bandmate and sometime Rutle and Monty Python member Neil Innes plus Viv's favourite violinist Susie Honeyman of The Mekons.

Tracks:
1. Aunt Florrie's Waltz
2. Interlewd
3. Wheelbarrow
4. Socks
5. The Rub
6. Nice 'N' Tidy
7. Pigs 'Ere Purse
8. 6/8 Hoodoo
9. Smeeton
10. Fool & Bladder
11. Endroar
12. The Beasht Inshide
13. Junglebunny
14. Aunt Florrie Remembers
15. Rawlinsons & Maynards
16. Papadumb

Here's what's being said about Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End”:

“Michael Livesley embodies to perfection the spirit and brilliance of Vivian Stanshall and adds his own measure of outrageous talent too” – Stephen Fry

“Sir Henry's bluster and his epic lack of drawing room manners are still winning fun. All very odd, all very Stanshall!” - Clive Davis, The Times

“A work of lyrical genius and poetry, on a different plane to the rest of the world” - Rick Wakeman

“What a night, an ensemble of madmen at their best, smashing!” - Rupert Stanshall, Vivian's son

“Brilliant! Berserk! Simply wonderful!” - Suzanne Moore, The Guardian

“Livesley's performance gives weight and truth to that old theatrical cliché - a comic tour-de-force” - Andrew Male, MOJO

“A distorted-mirror celebration of English eccentricity rooted in a riot of linguistic lasciviousness” - Andy Gill, The Independent

For more information please visit www.sirhenrylives.com

Videos:
“Wheelbarrow” (one of the show numbers) -

“Ginger Geezer” (encore from big London show) -

To purchase Vivian Stanshall's “Sir Henry At Rawlinson End” soundtrack:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01ACJKQ7A/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_7jf9wb19C1BVF

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