MuzikMan's Reviews And News: Space Rock

Showing posts with label Space Rock. Show all posts

5/13/2016

Hawkwind Alum NIK TURNER Brings His Spacey Sax & Freaky Flute Playing To A New Album By Experimental Jazz Fusion Ensemble FLAME TREE!

Los Angeles, CA - Having explored the intersection of space rock and jazz fusion on his newest solo album, 2015’s Space Fusion Odyssey, Hawkwind co-founder Nik Turner continues his bold expedition into the outer reaches of experimental music, recording a new full-length album of improvisational jazz freakouts with a Seattle-based ensemble including drummer Jack Gold-Molina and guitarist Dennis Rea (both of psych/prog band Spectral Waves), alongside bassist Paul “PK” Kemmish. The group owes its origins to a meeting between Gold-Molina and Turner, when Gold-Molina interviewed the British space-rock legend back in 2009 for an article in All About Jazz magazine. The idea for a musical collaboration between the two emerged, and as Gold-Molina recalls, “I believe Nik’s exact words were, ‘If people have got the balls to come onstage with me, then they are welcome to.’” And so began the journey that would lead these fearless souls from an initial round of freeform demo recording to putting a full blown band together, recording an album, and even performing live at Seattle’s Seaprog Festival in August of 2015. Enlisting Seattle icon Jack Endino, famed producer of Nirvana, L7, Screaming Trees and others, to mix the album, the band is now set to release this self-titled project on May 20 through Purple Pyramid Records.

Track List:
1. Mosquitos
2. Past Lives
3. In The Distance
4. Liquid
5. Organic Truth
6. Tantalium
7. Wild Flower

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/FlameTreeCD
Buy the digital download: http://flyt.it/FlameTreeDig

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

Hawkwind Alum NIK TURNER Brings His Spacey Sax & Freaky Flute Playing To A New Album By Experimental Jazz Fusion Ensemble FLAME TREE!

3/21/2016

Rock Stream: Shaking Bones EP by VvLvA

ABOUT VvlvA:

As a thunder struck from the canyon of light, on the day the satan rejected their souls, an exciting frontman with the moves of a tiger, backed up by three high energetic companions, decided to form a band. United as Vvlva they are now about to release their first seven inch on the Hamburg based label H42 records. In addition, the Australian label Heavy Chains Records subsequently proposed to release a cassette for this quartet from Aschaffenburg, Bavaria! Await the ultimate eruption of the folky-blues-heavy psych-vvlvacano in May 2016.

Releases May 6, 2016

PRESALE START April 6th 12:00 non from www.h42records.8merch.com
Every preorder will come with an additional A2 Poster!

10/31/2015

The Definitive Account Of Legendary Space Rock Band HAWKWIND’s Early Years Available Now In A 300-Page Hardcover Book!

Los Angeles, CA - They were one of the most groundbreaking rock bands to emerge from England in the late ‘60s whose improvised theatrical stage performances, DIY costumes, and larger-than-life stage presence earned them a cult-like following that persists to this day. And now the exhilarating story of Hawkwind’s most crucial years is about to be told. The Spirit Of Hawkwind 1969-1976, available everywhere on October 30, is the first ever behind-the-scenes look at the meteoric rise of this motley crew of space rock hooligans as told by one of its captains, co-founder and saxophonist Nik Turner. With assistance from music historian Dave Thompson, Nik gives readers the ultimate insider’s guide to Hawkwind, sharing his personal recollections both hilarious and horrifying, from the infamous drug bust of bassist Lemmy, to the group’s shocking performances at Glastonbury Festival. If it happened, it’s here, warts and all. The hardcover book features 300 pages of rare and never-before-seen photos as well as a comprehensive discography, gigography, and a reproduction of Nik’s tour diary from the band’s first US tour in 1975. In addition, the book will include a precise reproduction of the 1971 “Sonic Attack” 7” promo one-sided single housed in a cloth bag plus a full reproduction of a 1971 6” x 9” 20-page promotional booklet. If you’re a Hawkwind fan, Christmas has definitely come early this year, and if you aren’t already a fan prepare to get swept up by The Spirit Of Hawkwind!

See the video trailer for the book here:

To celebrate the release of the book, Nik Turner will be launching an extensive US tour starting in November and focusing exclusively on the classic Hawkwind repertoire. Nik will be signing copies of The Spirit Of Hawkwind at the shows, so buy one now and bring it with you or purchase a copy at the merch table.

NOV 12 - SAN FRANCISCO, CA - BRICK AND MORTAR
NOV 13 - PORTLAND, OR
NOV 14 - SEATTLE, WA - EL CORAZON
NOV 16 - DENVER, CO - LION'S LIAR
NOV 18 - MILWAUKEE, WI - SHANK HALL
NOV 20 - CHICAGO, IL - REGGIES
NOV 21 - WESTLAND, MI - TOKEN LOUNGE
NOV 22 - TORONTO, CANADA - THE ROCKPLIE
NOV 23 - BROOKLYN, NY - GRAND VICTORY
NOV 24 - NEW HAVEN, CT - CAFE NINE
NOV 25 - ROCHESTER, NY - BUG JAR
NOV 27 - PHILADELPHIA, PA - KUNG FU NECKTIE
NOV 29 - LONG BRANCH, NJ - BRIGHTON BAR
NOV 30 - SELLERSVILLE, PA - SELLERSVILLE THEATER
DEC 1 - RALEIGH, NC - THE POURHOUSE MUSIC HALL
DEC 2 - ATLANTA, GA - THE MASQUERADE
DEC 3 - NEW ORLEANS, LA - SIBERIA
DEC 4 - HOUSTON, TX - NOTSUOH
DEC 5 - SAN ANTONIO, TX - 237 @ THE KOROVA
DEC 6 - AUSTIN, TX - 7TH STREET CLUB
DEC 8 - PHOENIX, AZ - REBEL LOUNGE
DEC 9 - SAN DIEGO, CA - TILL TWO CLUB
DEC 10 - WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA - THE WHISKY
DEC 12 - LAS VEGAS, NV - LVCS
DEC 13 - FULLERTON, CA - THE CONTINETAL ROOM

More tour dates to be announced. Check www.cleorecs.com for updated tour info.

Buy The Spirit Of Hawkwind here: http://cleorecs.com/store/shop/the-definitive-account-of-the-life-of-legendary-space-rock-band-hawkwind-book/

Also be sure to check out Nik Turner’s newest solo album with guest performances by Billy Cobham, Robby Krieger (The Doors), Steve Hillage (Gong), and more! Available on both CD & Vinyl!
http://cleorecs.com/store/shop/nik-turner-space-fusion-odyssey-cd/
http://cleorecs.com/store/shop/nik-turner-space-fusion-odyssey-limited-edition-starburst-lp/

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

The Definitive Account Of Legendary Space Rock Band HAWKWIND’s Early Years Available Now In A 300-Page Hardcover Book!

6/13/2014

Nik Turner's Hawkwind To Tour North America With Witch Mountain And Hedersleben This Summer/Fall 2014!

Los Angeles, CA - In the spirit of the critically acclaimed and historic 'Space Ritual' tour of 1973, Nik Turner's Hawkwind plan to blow minds on their sonic and visually stimulating journey on their 2014 North American tour with Portland's own Witch Mountain and SF bay area Krautrockers Hedersleben. Starting in August, this package tour is not to be missed by anyone, in hopes to enlighten and inspire both people who have witnessed last year's tour or any of Nik's tours prior and the first timers, bringing sonic traditions of old to the forefront of 2014. Attendees and Nik Turner's Hawkind fans will not be disappointed. Though staying true to the spirit of Space Ritual as a concept, don't be surprised to hear other classics, songs off of the 2013 release 'Space Gypsy' album and perhaps a new song or two as Nik Turner prepares to return to the studio after the tour. Nik also has a new fusion project forthcoming featuring Billy Cobham and Chris Poland (Megadeth) later this year.

“This tour is the essence of space-rock, the extra-terrestrial, inter-galactic, orgasmic embodiment of the loving and healing vibrations, and the rocking music of the spheres, flame on, one love.” - Nik Turner

Nik Turner- Sax, Flute, Vocals- Hawkwind
Nicky Garratt- Guitar- UK SUBS
Jason Willer- Drums, Percusion- UK SUBS
Bryce Shelton-Bass
Kephera Moon- Keys, Synths and Sound Effects

Witch Mountain

“Witch Mountain is thrilled to follow up its Summer tour of Europe with the release of latest album Mobile of Angels, and tour in support of the legendary Nik Turner's Hawkwind. We feel sure that our music will be 'out there' enough to reach the heads, and Nik Turner and co will sufficiently rock our fans in turn. It's a match made in Hell and we can't wait to hit the road.”
www.witchmountain.net

Hedersleben

Year 1 report...“It was the same time last year that Hedersleben accompanied Nik Turner on a space trek around the USA promoting their debut album 'Upgoer'. Since then the crew have not been resting on their cosmic sofa rather they’ve pressed on to new and exciting ventures, including completing the next Brainticket album as the legendary Joel Vandroogenbroeck’s side-kicks (including many writing credits), launched their first headline tour of the west coast, preformed a showcase with special guest Captain Sensible from the Damned, (See the Hedersleben Facebook page for footage) and not least recorded their 2nd album 'Die Neuen Welten'.

'Die Neuen Welten', featuring the epic side long “Zu Den Neuen Welten”, (Youtube video scheduled for mid August), celebrates the Kepler mission space telescopes discoveries of more than 2000 exoplanets. DNW also boasts the studio version of stage favorite “(On The Ground) Safe and Sound”. The album is mixed by Jürgen Engler of Die Krupps.

Prog fans look out for further large sections of Hedersleben’s 3rd album, slated for recording early next year, as part of this tours set. 'The Fall Of Chronopolis', based on the book of the same name by Barrington J. Bayley, is distinctly more progressive in the tradition of the great early prog concept album. See you in August or September” - Nicky Garratt

Nicky Garratt- Guitar- UK SUBS
Jason Willer- Drums, Percusion- UK SUBS
Bryce Shelton- Bass
Kephera Moon- Keys, Vocals, Synths and Sound Effects

Nik Turner's Hawkwind with Witch Mountain and Hedersleben Tour Dates:

Tue 8/26 - Oakland, CA - Uptown
Wed 8/27 - Los Angeles, CA - Viper Room
Thu 8/28 - San Diego, CA - Casbah
Fri 8/29 - Tucson, AZ - Hotel Congress
Sat 8/30 - Albuquerque, NM - Launch Pad
Mon 9/01 - Austin, TX- Red 7
Tue 9/02 - New Orleans, LA - Siberia
Wed 9/03 - Birmingham, AL - Bottletree
Thu 9/04 - Memphis, TN - Hi-Tone Cafe
Fri 9/05 - Lafayette, GA - Meltasia Fest
Sat 9/06 - Raleigh, NC - Hopscotch Fest
Sun 9/07 - Richmond, VA - Strange Matter
Mon 9/08 - Baltimore, MD - Metro Gallery
Tue 9/09 - Philadelphia, PA - Boot and Saddle
Wed 9/10 - Sellersville, PA - Sellersville Theater
Thu 9/11 - New York, NY - Webster Hall
Fri 9/12 - Boston, MA - Middle East
Sun 9/14 - Montreal, QC - IL Motore
Mon 9/15 - Toronto, On - The Garrison
Tue 9/16 - Rochester, NY - Bug Jar
Wed 9/17 - Cleveland, OH - Beachland Ballroom
Thu 9/18 - Chicago, IL - Beat Kitchen
Fri 9/19 - Rock Island, IL - RIBCO
Sat 9/20 - Milwaukee, WI - Cactus Club
Sun 9/21 - Saint Paul, MN - Turf Club
Mon 9/22 - Winnipeg, MB - Pyramid Cabaret
Tue 9/23 - Saskatoon, Sk - Vangelis Tavern
Wed 9/24 - Calgary, AB - Palomino
Fri 9/26 - Vancouver, BC - Venue (early evening show)
Sat 9/27 - Seattle, WA - Chop Suey
Sun 9/28 - Portland, OR - Star Theater

Nik Turner's official website: http://nikturner.com/

Nathan Carson
Nanotear Booking
P.O. Box 12531
Portland, OR 97212-0531
nanotear@gmail.com
office: 503 567 6566
http://www.nanotear.com

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

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

Nik Turner's Hawkwind To Tour North America With Witch Mountain And Hedersleben This Summer/Fall 2014!

12/29/2013

Review: Sky Architect-A Billion Years of Solitude

Sky Architect, a Dutch progressive band, have just released album number 3, A Billion Years of Solitude, following on from the debut release, Excavations of the Mind (2010), and the follow-up, A Dying Man’s Hymn, (2011). Having featured the band on the radio show, I was keen to hear where this release would take the band.

The inspiration for this album comes from vintage science fiction and the musical themes deal with space travel, wormholes and supernovas. A Billion Years of Solitude certainly has a bit more weight and depth than the previous albums and it appears that the band have taken a bold step through the door which has the sign “Daring and Inventive” emblazoned upon it. The music represented here, certainly gives a little nod in the direction of bands such as, Genesis, Porcupine Tree, Hawkwind, Gentle Giant, Pink Floyd and King Crimson at times but the overall sound is that of Sky Architect undergoing a musical evolution.

The current band comprises 5 musicians, and they are, Tom Luchies (vocals, guitar), Wabe Wieringa (guitars), Guus van Mierlo (bass), Christian Bruin (drums, backing vocals) and Rick van Honk (keyboards including mellotron, grand piano, Hammond organ, Rhodes Piano, Clavinet, Wurlitzer and also flugelhorn, trumpet and backing vocals). A guest appears on one of the tracks, Maartje Dekker, who apparently plays wineglasses. Band member, Christian Bruin, I have certainly come across before as he releases solo albums under the name Chris, and has also become part of the band, Nine Stones Close.

A Billion Years of Solitude is a 7 track album with a total running time of around 61 minutes. The shortest track on the album is track 5, “Jim’s Ride To Hell,” an instrumental clocking in at 2:28 minutes, while the longest track is the epic opening track, “The Curious One,” which runs on for just over 18 minutes. (18:06)

The opening and closing tracks of A Billion Years of Solitude are lengthy epics that “bookend” the remainder of the tracks. “The Curious One” (18:06), opens the album and is a giant slice of the space rock/heavy prog cake with swirling waves of mellotron, and other keyboards, over a superbly tight rhythm unit, with some great edgy guitar work and excellent vocals. This track is a hugely atmospheric piece of music which leaves the listener on the horns of a dilemma. On one hand, the track demands to be replayed immediately, while on the other it points the way for the other musical treasures about to unfold.

The following track, “Wormholes” (5:53), also carries a large bracketed part to its title, “The Inevitable Collapse of the Large Hadron Collider,” which is certainly a thought provoking idea. Musically this track is a little more on the rockier side than the opening track, probably winking its eye in the direction of Spock’s Beard, and allowing Wabe Wieringa, the guitarist, to show his expertise. “Tides” (3:25), is one of the shorter tracks, which effortlessly veers from heavy prog into the acoustic area with ethereal vocals and then dives back into the heavy prog. The second track of the trio of 10+minute epics is “Elegy Of A Solitary Giant” (10:43) and reintroduces the listener to the mighty mellotron flights and almost shouts space rock at you, placing it into the area so loved by Hawkwind and Nektar enthusiasts. A short but powerful instrumental track, “Jim’s Ride To Hell” (2:28) carries the listener on and into “Revolutions” (8:00) which again highlights the superb keyboard skills and guitar gymnastics of Rick van Honk and Wabe Wieringa respectively. This track weaves mesmerizingly from in depth prog rock to the highest level of atmospheric, ethereal space rock and back again.

A Billion Years of Solitude is brought to a close by the other long track, “Traveller’s Last Candle” (12:35) which again allows the band to paint exquisite aural atmospheric soundscapes and then soar into space rock and into heavy prog, all with seamless ease.

A Billion Years of Solitude is an album that requires a fair amount of listening before the music on offer can be fully appreciated, but it is worth the work to get to that point. Sky Architect should be applauded for taking off in a slightly different direction and commended for being both daring and inventive. This is a change in style from the previous albums, but is a successful foray into less familiar territory.

The album, A Billion Tears of Solitude, just fails to gain the highest accolade available, but still earns one of the stickers available, that being the “One to Buy” sticker. My advice is to get hold of this album, then be prepared to work a little when listening to it, before getting the reward of realizing that this is an album which is a cut above many other releases.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Curious One, Wormholes, Travelers’ Last Candle

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson

December 29, 2013