Rock Video: OH-LOVE OF AVALANCHES

This is a fantastic song and cutting edge video from the artist OH. This lady is always one step ahead of everyone else and she is a multi-talented artist with incredible talent. This will not get out of your head once you hear it!

 It is a must watch! If you have a virtual headset you are in luck! Even without the equipment it is worth checking out.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



MORE ABOUT THE NEW TRACK FROM OH:

http://olitunes.com 

The multi-instrumentalist and composer, OH. announces the release of the 360° immersive video for her new alternative song, “Love of Avalanches.”

The 360° environment was created without a 360° camera and reverse-engineered from a cubemap and a fusion of handcrafted equirectangular panoramic images sequenced with custom textures, video and music.

Enjoy the fully immersive 360° effect using VR headsets or Google Cardboard and a smartphone.

The track will be available through iTunes, Spotify and other music distributors on April 7, 2016.

The single is now available for preorder on:
iTunes
Bandcamp

Prog Rock Video: Across The Milky Way - Starlight Brigade

"Across The Milky Way" is the opening track from Starlight Brigades third album Destination Eternity. The new release 2016. This is a superb audio visual treat for the senses!

New Age Vocal: Fiona Joy-Grace

Fiona Joy has a new album out titled Signature-Synchronicity. The track of focus is a special one for the artist and I am certain will become one for her listeners.

"Grace" holds a lot of meaning for Fiona. The slow acoustic vocal version of the track is one of elegance and a message to all listeners regarding the delicate balance of life and the healing powers of music.

Fiona said: "Grace" came to me as a gift at a time when I was feeling down. Someone emailed me to say they had a still born baby girl 10 years earlier and listened to my music to help her recover. She named the baby Grace. Now, 10 years later she has a daughter called Sophie Grace and together they sit and listen my music to remember her baby sister. The message to me was that my music had stood the test of time and that the most important thing I can do with it is to touch and help others. 

Fiona's angelic and comforting vocals and the eloquent piano she plays are the perfect combination on this track.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck 



More About Fiona Joy:

http://fionajoy.com

“One of the brightest lights in contemporary instrumental music, Fiona Joy is poised to move into stardom.”

- Will Ackerman, Founder of Windham Hill Records 

As 2016 unfolds, Australian Pianist, Producer & Singer Fiona Joyisreadying her new album -- Signature Synchronicity -- for worldwide release on March 18, 2016, simultaneously preparing for another grand tour of China, a new recording session in the U.S., and a feature concert with her Blue Dream Ensemble at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre (Sydney) -- an extension of the Sydney Women's International Jazz Festival – scheduled for August 2016...READ MORE...

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!

Pop / Electronica / Dance Stream-Rhealine-Alive

Rhealine are two focused individuals intent on creating stories with their dance/electronica sounds. They like to call it poptronic. I think that is good description. 

Rhealine has a dynamic and energized sound served up on this featured track titled "Alive."

The track focuses on lost love over many centuries of passing time and more than just hinting at the possibility of reincarnation. After hearing "Alive" you may find it believable. Give it a listen now!
 
Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Rhealine:

http://www.rhealine.com

Rhealine is a project that is working with singers from the entire world. Therefore we call it "Cross-continental music collaboration rooted in the fusion of pop and electronic sound." Currently, Rhealine is working with Zora from Netherlands, L.Paris from Los Angeles, Mechi and Della from Buenos Aires/Argentina.

Rhealine is pure, evolutionary. Its cross-continental collaboration is rooted in the science of pop and electronic sound. The idea behind the poptronic influence generates a functionality persistent in identifying a unique contemporary pulse. The fusion resonates fresh domain and a sound definitive to the eclectic brilliance of its broad-based artists; performers and musicians. Come inside Rhealine and take a taste of a more creative, personified edge...READ MORE...

Rock/Blues Stream: RJ Comer-Nightly Suicide

RJ Comer sounds like an old soul off his title track on the new album Nightly Suicide. 

The track is permeated with a a foundation of the blues touched off with some rock to make a combustible combination. The guitar lines are on fire and Comer's voice comes right from his toes.

This is one of the best tracks I have heard in some time. It is very down to earth and original.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


More About RJ Comer:

http://www.rjcomer.com

RJ Comer is a Los Angeles city boy and storyteller with the backwaters of Americana and Blues running through his veins. He started out singing

in church and around the campfire, but ended up in a lot of bad places at wrong times. RJ’s music reflects the witty, gritty, tender and tough

guy he is. From downtempo gritty songs that cut deep with self-deprecating humor and jagged memories to upbeat songs that swagger even when they swing, RJ’s music is both meaningful and entertaining...READ MORE...

Jazz Stream: Oleg Frish-The Things We Did Last Summer

Oleg Frish has a very distinct vocal style. What he is able to do with a standard jazz tune is turn it into something fresh and new with a twist because of his European accent.

On "The Things We Did Last Summer" he spotlights his vocal prowess and style backed with some light but poignant jazz music.

His Duets with My American Idols is his latest recording and jazz lovers will certainly find enjoyment on this release.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Oleg Frish:

http://olegfrish.com

Oleg Frish is a native of Russia and naturalized American citizen (2000) who has developed a distinguished career as a noted international celebrity television broadcast host, journalist, recording artist, performer and music historian. Oleg was born in Zaporozhye , the USSR into a family of musicians. His mother, Svetlana Frish, is a pianist and his father, Eugeny Frish, (2 sons, Oleg is the first one)was longtime head of the ( Seagull choir) and an important member of the artistic community...READ MORE...

Rock/Pop Stream: Idalee-Starting Now

Idalee has a great story of success behind him now and a world ready to embrace his music.

A new single titled "Starting Now" is the focus. It sounds full of hope and positive energy.

There is a mixture of pop and rock and a bit of Celtic leanings in his voice in the track that makes it that much different than what you normally hear. At least that is what I heard.

Because of the man's story and his music it separates him from the run of the mill pop star.  It is nice to hear something different with a great story to latch on to before you listen, it makes it all that much more captivating.

Idalee debut EP STARTING NOW available now on
iTunes: smarturl.it/5nq
Amazon: amzn.to/1oV5ZXo

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck 



More About Idalee:
http://idalee.com

HE CAME TO IN THE HOSPITAL WITH A CRIMINAL COURT SUMMONS

And he narrowly escaped jail – simply because no one was in the car he smashed into. Drunk and on cocaine he crashed his car into a parked

government vehicle and put his head through he windshield.

After years in Los Angles making music, his lifestyle caught up with him. It squandered his demo deal with Geffen Records and his relationships

with some music industry heavy hitters. He brought his demons with him when he moved back home to the Washington D.C. area. And he finally

ended up in a stretcher.

He’d had a number of softer wake up calls before – but he says this was the one that came right before death. He feels this was his true second

chance at life and he had to make good on it...READ MORE...

IDALEE is all about second chances.

Dance/Electronica Stream: Lexxica-Hello Friday

Lexxica is a beautiful young talent with new music out right now. Her new single "Hello Friday" is full of energy and color.

This lady is just bubbling over with excitement and this radio ready electronica dance track is queued up to make its way to the dance clubs and charts everywhere soon.

The fast pace and constant rhythm will sweep you away! Check it out and download it on iTunes here smarturl.it/m6bsq5.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Lexxica:

http://www.lexxicamusic.com

https://www.facebook.com/Lexxicamusic

Los Angeles based singer-songwriter and pop star on the rise, Lexxica attributes her uplifting dance music style by identifying herself as an artist showcasing an entire experience rather than just a song to her listeners.

Set to release her follow up EP this spring, Lexxica enchants her audience with her riveting hooks and free spirit. Lexxica’s productions cross a wide range of EDM styles -- house, indie-dance, electro, and dubstep. A significant new talent, Lexxica owns her unique and expressive individual style. ...READ MORE...

R & B/Funk Stream: Charles Wright-She Don't Believe In Love

Charles Wright continues to be a force in the R&B music industry. It started in 1962 and there is no sign of him slowing down yet!

One look at the risque cover of his new single "She Don't Believe In Love" certainly tells the story.

If you are ready to get all funked up and get your body moving just click play on the stream provided. This is funky soulful get up and dance music.

 It's funky fresh with a twist of irony and romance so check it out now...

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Charles Wright:

http://www.expressyourself.net

1962-Present
 
Charles Wright was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he grew up and was musically inclined by playing the guitar and singing in several doo-wop groups including, “The Twilighters, “The Shield” and “The Gallahads”. Wright briefly worked as A&R Director for Del-Fi Records and was responsible for the "Hit" recording of "Those Oldies But Goodies" (“Remind me of you”) by Little Caesar and the Romans in 1961. By 1964, Wright formed his own band called Charles Wright & the Wright Sounds which included, John Raynford, along with Daryl Dragon, "Captain" of Captain & Tennille...READ MORE

New Age/Jazz Stream: Todd Mosby-Spirit Dancer

Todd Mosby has a new album out titled On Eagle Mountain. The focus track is "Spirit Dancer."

The track is a wonderful combination of new age and jazz. It is a solid world crossover selection. Mosby's guitar is inviting and the resident instrumentalist at Will Ackerman's Imaginary Road Studios join in to make the music complete.

The artist refers to the group as the New Horizon Ensemble. The presence of Tony Levin on bass has always made a difference with any recording and this one is no exception.

If you want to hear a combination of smooth jazz, new age and world music check out this track now!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Todd Mosby:

http://toddmosbymusic.com

Todd Mosby is a guitarist, composer and improvisor who has mastered multiple musical forms; classical, jazz and Indian raga. This broad spectrum of musical knowledge enables the St. Louis native to create works that are both highly creative and intelligent.

“Somehow he manages to synthesize these disparate elements into a singular musical voice that is unique in my experience…and “unique” is not a word I throw out easily or frequently.” - Will Ackerman, multi-grammy producer, founder Windham Hill Records.

Jazz/Swing Stream: Sasha's Bloc-Breakfast

How can a song make breakfast so appealing? Sasha's Bloc knows how with their track "Breakfast" from their album Heart On Fire.

This band is keeping the tradition of jazz, swing and cabaret alive with their tasteful and expressive music.

Sasha's Bloc is like a Broadway show set to some of the best jazz and swing you will hear in our modern technical age.

So as they say in the song "Start the day with a smile and stop to enjoy!" I think that holds true if you have the track "Breakfast" playing to help give you that incentive.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Sasha's Bloc:

http://sashasbloc.com

Alex Gershman – Bass Guitar

“Alexander Gershman is not a jack of all trades; rather he is a master. He wears many hats and wears them all well: physician, surgeon, philanthropist, bandleader, songwriter and bassist to name a few.

The 8-piece small group which is Sasha’s Bloc sounded nothing short of amazing as they dazzled the capacity level VIP crowd. Songs like “Feels Like Jazz” and “Breakfast” were guest favorites, along with the sweet and melodic duet “Black and Blue.” Speaking of the songs, they are Gershman originals. And from my perspective, his writing is right up there with some of the classic songsmiths of the first part of the 20th century.” -International Review of Music by James DeFrances


Brandon Fields - Saxophone

Brandon Fields is one of the most talented and renowned saxophone players in the world. His debut recording “The Other Side Of The Story” was recorded in 1986. Three additional concept albums followed with great success.

World class Saxophone player who performed with Earth Wind & Fire, Elton John, Quincy Jones, Nancy Wilson, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, Luis Miguel, Al Jarreau, Robben Ford, Nancy Sinatra, George Duke, Engelbert Humperdink


Mr. McChesney – Trombone

Mr. McChesney one of the most talented and renowned Trombone players in the world.

Some of his film credits include Rocky Balboa, The Pursuit of Happiness, Everyone's Hero, Shepherd, Mystic, Rush Hour, The Cooler, Space Jam, and many others. TV shows featuring his work include The Simpson’s, Family Guy, American Dad, Happy Hour, Looney Tunes, JAG, King of the Hill, Futurama, and more.

He can be heard as a jazz soloist on his own "No Laughing Matter - The Bob McChesney Quartet Plays Steve Allen", Horace Silver's It's Got to Be Funky(1993), Bob Florence's Grammy 2000 winning CD "Serendipity 18", along with others.

Alex Budman – Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone

Since his move to Los Angeles from San Francisco in 2005, Alex Budman has been in heavy demand as a session musician and soloist, recording on a wide variety of albums, TV shows and movies. His command of the saxophone, clarinet and flute keeps him busy playing in the top tier of LA's musical community. Alex can be found touring with songwriter Christopher Cross and has been fortunate over the years to perform or record with artists including Eric Clapton, Boz Scaggs, D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, Clare Fischer and Rosemary Clooney.

Kye Palmer – Trumpet

Trumpeter Bobby Shew first got Palmer his start on the Woody Herman Orchestra; Palmer toured 1988 through 1990 with the group. Palmer currently performs and records with the Chris Walden Big Band, Bill Cunliffe’s “Imaginacion” and other groups in the Los Angeles area. He has also performed and recorded with LeAnn Rimes, Hawk-Richard Jazz Orchestra, Bob Dylan, Tony Bennett, Joe Williams, and Diane Schuur, as well as touring Japan with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and Poncho Sanchez Latin jazz band. Television appearances include The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with David Letterman.

Palmer continues to teach trumpet and is serving as an adjunct professor at California State University, Fullerton.

Kevin Winard – Drums
 
When he was just twenty years old, Kevin began touring the country backing up one of the most successful pop duos in musical history—The Captain & Tennille - touring and recording with them for over ten years. In the summer of 1988, Kevin traveled the United States with the pop group Times Two, opening for Debbie Gibson on her Out Of The Blue tour, and went on to accompany French rock star David Hallyday for his European tour and live album, followed by a world tour with pop icon Paul Anka.

Andy Langham – Piano

Andy Langham studied jazz performance at the University of North Texas. His touring credits include Poncho Sanchez, Natalie Cole, Christian McBride, Ernie Watts, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, New York Voices, John Heard, and Dewey Redman. His recording and/or performance credits include John Abercrombie, Gary Bartz, Terence Blanchard, Arthur Blythe, Debby Boone, Randy Brecker, Bobby Caldwell, Pete Christlieb, Ravi Coltrane, Larry Coryell, John Fedchock, The Four Freshmen, Terry Gibbs, Gerry Gibbs, Tom Harrell, Jon Hendricks, Dave Liebman, Don Menza, Roy McCurdy, James Moody, Sam Rivers, Christian Scott, Bobby Shew, Lew Soloff, Mike Stern, Clark Terry and Steve Turre.

Steve Cotter - Guitar

Steve Cotter's first interest in jazz and studying guitar came about in his 17th year. Cotter excelled at the esteemed college playing in the One O' Clock band and obtaining the graduate teaching fellowship. At UNT he played along side distinguished jazz performers including Marc Johnson, Buster Wiliams, Gerry Muligan, and Randy Brecker.

He has performed with such notables as Joey DeFrancesco, Jimmy Smith, Dave Pike, John Pisano, Bill Perkins, Dale Fielder, Jane Getz, Bob Maize and Ernie Watts.

In 2005 to the present he has toured extensively with vocalist Steve Tyrell to Europe, Japan, Russia, and the U.S. including residencies in New York City. While in Los Angeles he started playing with Sasha’s Bloc Band

Tony Galla – Vocal

Internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Tony Galla was discovered in Buffalo, New York by renowned disc jockey Joey Reynolds, recording his first hit single, “In Love” (Swan Records). Climbing quickly up the Billboard charts, “In Love” became a national cult hit in the U.S. and throughout the UK and Europe, where it currently remains a popular hit.

After releasing their first album, Live at the Inferno (Discovery Records), rock legend Jimi Hendrix helped Raven land a recording contract with Clive Davis and Columbia Records, releasing a second album, Raven and the single, “Feeling Good.”

Soon Tony could be found jamming into the wee hours of the night with Jimi Hendrix or Janis Joplin at local nightclubs in New York City. Tony toured extensively with Raven gaining worldwide attention and opening for prominent groups like Joe Cocker, Led Zeppelin, Procol Harem, The Byrds, The Young Rascals, Blood Sweat and Tears, Three Dog Night, B.B. King, Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy. He is Now performing with Sasha’s Bloc

Jane Monheit

“Everything I’m singing now is a reflection of my truest self,” says Jane Monheit. “After all this time in the industry, after touring for 13 years, it’s time to just be me, with complete and utter freedom.”

It can be felt in her wide- ranging choice of material, in the unique arrangements, and in her own fearless performances and interpretations. The diverse and very personal set of songs includes both familiar standards and compositions by Lennon/McCartney, Randy Newman, two songs by Ivan Lins, recorded in the original Portuguese, and, for the first time, a Monheit original. She is now performing with Sasha’s Bloc.

Alvin Chea – Vocal

Alvin Chea was born in San Francisco, California. A graduate of Oakwood College, he earned a double-major Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Communications. As a veteran of the music industry, his singing voice has been heard on scores of movie soundtracks and music recordings, and he has been a Voice-over artist anchoring numerous commercials. A founding member of ten-time Grammy® award winning ‘Super group’ Take 6, Alvin Chea has toured the world extensively and shares glimpses of that life in his autobiography, BassLines. Over their twenty-year history, in addition to becoming the most nominated R&B, Gospel, or Jazz vocalists in Grammy® history, Take 6 has garnered several venerated music industry honors. In addition to the aforementioned activities he is also pursuing a Juris Doctorate in Entertainment Law.

He is now performing with Sasha’s Bloc.

Nora Rothman - Vocal

Los Angeles native Nora Rothman has been singing jazz professionally since age 16, when she was bewitched by the freedom, expressiveness, and honesty of America's classic art form.

At age 19, she moved to Providence, Rhode Island to earn her B.A. in Creative Writing from Brown University. While in college, Nora sung in ICCA award-winning jazz a'cappella group "The Higher Keys" and also toured Florence, Italy with the Nora Rothman Trio. In 2013, Nora returned to Los Angeles to pursue her career as a singer/songwriter/actress. She joined Sasha's Bloc in the fall of 2014, and made her live radio debut with Jane Monheit and Alvin Chea for the "Heart on Fire" release show on Kjazz 88.1 this spring.

Nora has already performed with such respected jazz stalwarts as Marcus Miller, Alan Pasqua and Bob Shepard. She can be found singing jazz in every corner of town--Vibrato, Catalina, the Dresden--with L.A.'s finest players.

Sasha’s Girls:

Glynis Leflore

Glynis LeFlore is an aspiring singer from New Orleans. She joined Sasha’s Bloc, September 2014.

Darah Fortier

Darah is an amazing singer, infectious and captivating performer, and an inspiring and prolific songwriter.. Thanks to some direction from special key figures in her life, the world now has access to a moving, touching and inspiring force. She joined Sasha’s Bloc September 2014.

Octavia Pace

Octavia is a successful and very talented background singer. She joined Sasha’s Bloc September 2014.

Jasmin Handon

Jasmin is a very talented vocalist who has been touring as a lead and background singer. Her passion is in R&B and Jazz. She joined Sasha’s Bloc February 2015.

R & B Stream: Bunny Sigler-Lavada

Bunny Sigler just keeps on keepin' on with yet another single release to keep that energy flowing and rolling along. There still remains a fire burning inside this man and with "Lavada" that is quite evident.

His smooth delivery and stories of love and life make him sound like a man half his age. His vocal style is so pleasing and from the heart that you cannot help but buy in from the first note.

They broke the mold when they made Bunny Sigler. He surely is a unique and consistent force in the music industry. One listen to "Lavada" will be all the proof you need that he is here to stay.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Bunny Sigler:

http://www.bunzmusicandrecords.com

 Bunny Sigler Is "Mr.Emotion"...

Creating several hits over the span of his career that today's generation keep sampling, Bunny continues to write, produce and Record new material. He is the co-writer of the song, "The Ruler's Back" which was an opening song for the Jay Z's album, Blueprint. He has a brand new TV show coming out called "Bunny and Friends" and  a brand new CD as well. At 70 years old "there ain't no stopping us now" claims "Sigler"...Lets face it !! They don't build them like this anymore and Bunny Sigler is the "Real Deal."

He's a living legend alright and a huge part of music history. Whether it's performing, writing or producing he gives it his all....

It's no wonder why the Industry has nicknamed him "Mr. Emotion."

Featured Stream: Kathryn Kaye-Learning To Waltz With Clouds

Kathryn Kaye's latest release is There Was A Time.

Kathryn's recording output has been totally consistent and complete quality for many years and I would anticipate another wonderful group of tracks on the new album.

One example that surely indicates that is the focus track "Learning To Waltz With Clouds." The title alone suggest something so beautiful and spiritual that it cannot miss hitting you just the right way. Her piano playing is gorgeous and you can envision getting in step with the billowing clouds above. The thought of it brings a quiet to your inner being and of course the music leads the way.

This is a great introduction to her latest outing and I certainly look forward to hearing more of the same!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Kathryn Kaye:

http://kathrynkaye-music.com

Kathryn Kaye grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of southeastern Kentucky.  She began playing piano at the age of four, and music immediately became an essential part of her life.  She majored in voice and keyboard in college, after which she moved to Germany to further her training.  Prior to and during her years in Germany, Kathryn performed professionally as a folk singer and soprano soloist in concerts, recitals, and operas, and she has appeared as a solo performer on television in both Germany and the United States.

Kathryn has been influenced by the simple harmonies of the folksongs and hymns that she heard, sang, and played as a child, by her years of experience with classical music, and by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains where she now lives.  Her music ranges from compositions with strong, emotional melodies through more contemporary, meditative, instrumental pieces.

Featured Stream: Joe Heinemann - Lenape

Joe Heinemann's new release Gratitude says how the artist feels about life and he then translates that in his music.

The track of choice is "Lenape." It is a beautiful dance of grace and sound. Joe's fingers are the translator and his piano is the messenger.

The soft intro pulls you in and grabs your attention. The pace is purposeful and meaningful. 

"Lenape" is one example of what is in store for the listener on the new release. Lovers of instrumental, classical and new age music will find this an enjoyable piece to listen to.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


More About Joe Joe Heinemann:

http://www.joeheinemann.com

Some music career voyages start early, some start late, but each one shares a point where the commitment to working on one's craft becomes

important. For pianist Joe Heinemann, that happened at the young age of 7, shortly after he began taking piano lessons. His mother was the only

member of the household “really into music,” and was the guiding force in his early musical development and the emergence of his performing

talent. “My mother pushed me when I was young, which was key, because I wasn’t aware of what I was developing completely. I wasn’t self-driven.

There were many small steps to feeling good about becoming a really proficient player and side-man, and that made making music more valuable as

I aged."

Joe Heinemann grew up in Portland, Oregon, and studied classical piano from the age of 7 until he turned 20 (including a brief stint at the

Music Conservatory in San Francisco). His professional playing career began smack-dab in the middle of that spell, at a mere 13 years old. As a

young teen in Portland, he found himself drawn to jazz by listening to albums at friends' houses. In his twenties, he heard a Keith Jarrett

album and a light bulb went on over his head. “I was a strong solo pianist and always wanted to do that most. When George Winston appeared [on

the scene] I thought it was great that he could do concert halls with a casual appearance. I wasn’t at a point in my life to follow a similar

path to [Winston's], though.”

After his formal studies, Heinemann funneled his energy into jazz and dance music, as well as a great amount of freelancing (he would end up

playing piano and keyboards with an assortment of bands until he turned 45). For two years in the mid '80s he lived in Amsterdam, playing local

gigs and touring Europe, performing and recording, including dates with saxophonist Archie Shepp. These years represented his most intensely

focused jazz-playing period.

Moving back to the States, he launched a career as a jazz and blues keyboardist in both Portland and San Francisco, most notably touring and

recording with Charlie Musselwhite's Band. Between 1992 and 2001, Joe recorded and shared the stage with many well-known artists (e.g. Robert

Cray, Steve Miller, Bonnie Raitt, and Albert Collins, to name just a few), developing a reputation as the consummate sideman. He also fronted

his own group, releasing six recordings under his name. One of his earlier songs, "Straight Ahead," placed in the top ten in a Jazzizz magazine

national keyboardist contest. As accomplished as he had become, something was missing. “I knew in 2001 I had to leave freelancing and playing in

other people’s bands. I needed to take time to develop my music and discover my true voice. I knew it would be a long process and I had to make

a living, so I built a private piano teaching business in the Bay Area and left performing for a living to teach while I wrote and developed my

own piano repertoire. That lasted about 12 years.”

In 2012, he and his wife moved to New York City (where they currently reside) and Joe spent time “getting to know himself” as a different kind

of piano player and composer. “I fully realized I wanted to (and needed to) find a way to be a solo pianist, perform for respectful audiences on

nice pianos, express my original music in a relaxed and mature environment.” This process of discovery slowly took shape, culminating in the

artist reaching out to noted producer Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records and currently part of one of the hottest producer/engineer

tandems in music alongside Tom Eaton at Imaginary Road Studios in rural Vermont. It is here that Joe recorded his latest work, Gratitude. While

subtle elements of jazz can be heard on the album, “...with this music I’m doing now, melody is primary. Will stresses this and I think it’s

part of why his judgment is so valuable. I will probably revere melody more for the rest of my life because of Will’s influence.”

As Joe Heinemann continues to evolve, those first glimpses of this new direction his music would take all those years ago (with the discovery of

Jarrett and Winston) have crystallized. “This solo piano, original music, played on great pianos, with quiet listeners that want to hear you,

working with the greatest producer in the business, and an audience ready for my music, is all I really wanted since I was very young.

Ultimately, I want to leave something behind after I’m gone. The music I’m making now will allow for that.”

David Bowie Playlist

Featured Stream: Raphael Groten-Sweetness

Raphael Groten has a new release out titled Journey Home. Our focus track is the beautiful and delicate "Sweetness." 

Groten takes his acoustic guitar and turns it into a tool to soothe and caress the human mind, body and spirit. With the video provided you will also see what the message is in addition to hearing it.

What I enjoyed is the simplicity and directness of the track. "Sweetness" can come in many different ways and in this case it is being with a loved one and enjoying the splendor of nature and all its gifts.

Groten delivers to the listener and an audio visual treat to help you to realize that the simple things in life are what are most important. Look around you and take it all in and enjoy your life and everything it brings to you on a daily basis. One man, one guitar and music of solitude and gratitude is what I hear. I like the way the video ends with Groten creating a totem on a tree with his guitar and bird feathers. Our Native American father's would be proud!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Raphael Groten:

http://raphaelgroten.com

Acoustic guitarist Raphael Groten exhibited amazing patience in waiting until now to release his first solo recording, seeing as he has been playing the instrument for thirty years (and loving every minute of it). His story involves perseverance, happenstance, and coincidence, and even though the seeds of what germinated for years have finally sprouted with the release of 2015's Journey Home, getting there involved some diversions as well as the development of a deep-rooted belief in a world of personal spiritual growth and commitment to using his talent for the betterment of others.

Raphael Groten was born in Philadelphia forty-two years ago on Christmas Day, 1973, into a true music-loving environment. From happy times as the family sang during long car trips to the sizable jazz and classical vinyl collection in the house (with a particular emphasis on bossa nova and Latin-influenced jazz) to the ubiquitous presence of multiple guitars during holiday gatherings, there seemed to be something musical going on at all times. Despite there being a piano available, Raphael first picked up the saxophone as his chosen instrument, beginning with alto sax in the 4th grade and graduating to tenor from grades 7 to 10. He moved on to guitar when he turned 13 and, as they say, the rest is history. First acquiring some informal music training from his mother and sister, Raphael then moved on to formal studies at the University of Vermont, where he majored in Philosophy and minored in Music. While still in high school, he became immersed in folk music and by the end of his Freshman year of college he had composed over 100 songs, collaborating with friends when it came time to write lyrics. After his diploma, he launched his own ten-piece Latin/jazz/funk ensemble, Saudade. The group performed extensively during the late '90s in Burlington, Vermont, and released two albums of Raphael's own compositions.

Even as he was experiencing success with his band, something stirred inside him, some part of him wanted to affect positive change in the world. In 1993, while taking a holistic health class, he met his first shamanic teacher, Susan Grimaldi. In 2001, she would reenter his life at a pivotal moment when he sought personal healing after his four and a half month old son was involved in a near fatal accident. That first night in intensive care he played guitar for his son, while the following day a therapeutic harpist paid them a visit in his son's room, performing for them. It was at this moment when an epiphany dawned for Raphael—his life calling was to compose, perform, and eventually record intentional healing music for people in need. Shortly thereafter, he began shamanic studies, first with Grimaldi and then with Zacciah Blackburn in the field of Sound Healing. He graduated to being a practitioner himself, which he does to this date, offering Sound Circles, individual sessions, group work and apprenticeships, using voice, medicine drum, crystal bowl, flutes and more.

In addition to his work in the Sound Healing field, Raphael also teaches children folk music, and uses singing, dancing, clapping, music theory and song-writing as part of his teaching repertoire. In addition, he also holds private lessons for both guitar and ukulele. As if that wasn't enough to keep him busy,  he is also a contractor, carpenter, and furniture maker, with his own company, Barnoire Furniture and Cabinetry (started in 2001).

It was while sitting in one of his daily meditations in nature (he currently lives in a log cabin atop a mountain in Starksboro, Vermont) that yet another turning point occurred in Raphael's life. He was moved, purely through intuition, to email one of his guitar tracks ("Black River") to Will Ackerman, Windham Hill label founder and owner of Imaginary Road Studios, also in Vermont. In his email, he also requested a meeting to discuss the possibility of Will producing Raphael's first solo recording, featuring fingerstyle acoustic guitar. Fate smiled on him and Will responded the next day. A scant two months later, Groten's debut, Journey Home, was recorded in just two days at Imaginary Road. The experience left a huge impact on Raphael, as he states "I would be remiss in not mentioning the enormous influence and presence of Will Ackerman in my life... I now see, first hand, how Will champions music of this nature."

When asked about his goal for his music, Raphael replies with rock-solid conviction: "To me, being a musician involves offering an uplifting, contemplative, and ultimately healing experience to each listener. As I play each concert and as I write and record each song, I imbue my music with mindful intention for the well-being and healing of all life."

Featured Holiday Track: Doug Hammer-Deck The Halls

Doug Hammer is a piano player par excellence! After hearing his latest release Christmas Lights it is easy to make a statement like that with conviction.

"Deck The Halls" was one of my key tracks in my review and here is why...The song is a classic that has been around for a very long time and to take it then shape it into something entirely different to make it your own without losing its essence is a task. Hammer did just that.

The rolling piano is comparable to beginning with little ripples in the water then building up to full size waves of sound. Most importantly you will recognize it but with many new twists and turns. That is what makes it so fresh and inviting to your ears.

Doug Hammer delivers the spirit of the Holiday in his own way with "Deck The Halls."

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck



More About Doug Hammer:
www.doughammer.net

Multi-award winning pianist, composer and producer Doug Hammer has been involved with music since the age of three and began piano lessons at the age of six. He was educated in contemporary, jazz and classical styles of music.

A scholarship graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, Doug’s musical world continued to flourish, gaining experience in everything from record production to orchestration and arranging. After Berklee, he opened his own project studio and production company, Dreamworld Productions. His studio and skills have served the needs of many, working on projects for film, web, TV, radio and corporations. He has produced countless artists in a diversity of styles.

After many years of success with his business, Doug started releasing his own music. It has won countless awards and nominations from radio, websites and media. His music is widely popular on internet, satellite and radio stations all over the world. It has received millions of plays on Pandora, Spotify, Music Choice and Whisperings Solo Piano Radio. His album, Solace, is a big hit on Pandora and his double album, Travels, won Album of the Year on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio.

Doug recently released his ninth album, Haiku. It contains fifteen meticulously handcrafted songs, distilled to their essence. He also just released Christmas Lights, featuring seventeen traditional favorites and a new original composition, Christmas Lights. The album debuted on Pandora Premieres and has charted to #3 on Amazon and #8 on iTunes.

Doug continues to tour regularly across the United States. He recently performed at New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall.

Please visit www.doughammer.net for more information.

Featured Stream: Three Wise Monkeys-Panopticon

Three Wise Monkeys are an interesting trio. They are bit of a mystery regarding how they came to be however it did not take long to ascertain that they know exactly what they are doing with their instruments.

The members are: Brad Kypo (Guitar), Alex King (Bass) and Brendon Waterman (Drums). They hail from down under in Sydney Australia.

They have a new album Progettoarte that is coming out in a few days and the focus track here is "Panopticon." 

                                         http://www.3wm.co

"Panopticon" is a marvelous track and the trio makes the best of their talents with a fast moving and ever changing pace. It is indeed very progressive. As their sound is so appropriately explained on their Facebook page "Featuring some drop D riffage, two handed bass tapping in a weird time signature and some mighty drum pounding." Well I could not have encapsulated their sound much better myself!

This is what prog and experimental music is all about, pushing the musical envelope and making sounds that capture the imagination. This is great music that needs to be heard! 

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Instrumental Solo Piano: Tim Neumark-Starlight

The album Galaxy is Tim Neumark's sixth release. Our focus track for the release is "Starlight." 

Already familiar with this gentleman's music it was easy for me to become enchanted once his fingers hit those wonderful ivory keys.

With "Starlight" Neumark creates heaven on earth. The simplicity is the beauty of the track and his flow and approach brings you through a river of emotions both elating and perhaps a touch of sadness as you reflect upon your innermost thoughts.

Simply put this is a gorgeous melody that should not be missed!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Tim:

https://timneumark.com

Tim was born and raised in the Mid-Atlantic, spending much of his youth in Frostburg, Maryland. In his childhood and early adulthood his foremost passion was athletics, and he participated in baseball, basketball, tennis, soccer, and track. He also developed a taste for classical and new age music in his teenage years, but it wasn't until his later high school years that he discovered his talent for the piano.

For years, Tim travelled the country for work, frequently playing his own compositions in hotel lobbies. At the urging of his wife and others, he finally released his debut CD in 2007.

Tim currently lives with his wife and two daughters in the Washington, DC area.

About Tim's Music:

Tim composes solo piano music that is "emotional, beautiful music that tells a story." Featuring a combination of classical and new age styles, he has released six solo piano albums.

His 2014 album Storm was named Best Solo Piano Album of 2014 by One World Music. In addition, Storm was named one of the best CDs of 2014 by Audiosyncracy, received two Hollywood Music in Media Award (HMMA) nominations, and was nominated for Enlightened Piano Radio's 2014 Album of the Year award. His 2013 album Opus Four was nominated by SoloPiano.com for Classical/Neo-Classical album of the year and received two HMMA nominations. 

Tim's music can be heard on the following internet radio broadcasts (Note that these links open a new tab.)

• Pandora Internet Radio
• Whisperings Solo Piano Radio
• Shoutcast.com
• Sky.fm's Solo Piano Channel
• Enlightened Piano Radio

Galaxy (2015):

Galaxy is Tim's sixth CD, released in May 2015. This album includes all of the tracks from Tim's 2014-2015 track-a-month campaign. Galaxy was named Best Instrumental/Piano Album in June 2015 by The Akademia Music Awards.
Space... the final frontier... the tracks on this album are inspired by the awe and beauty of space. Almost a 50/50 mix of minor and major pieces, Galaxy includes both energetic pieces (Orbit, Perspective, Starlight) and calmer pieces to capture certain moods (Night, Time's Arrow, Vast). For the full background about this album and its tracks, see Galaxy: Behind the music.

Download the CD liner notes in PDF, or visit the store to buy the CD and sheet music.