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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & PR
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & PR
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Glasgow based blues rock band Bison Hip are set to release their second full-length album on May 17th.
Entitled Welcome To The Rest Of Your Life, the eleven track album builds from 2023’s tremendously well received Older Stronger Better; while that debut placed a marker down on how to deliver soulful blues and more rugged rock-blues, the sophomore release carries more musical breadth and bluesier shades than its predecessor.
Pre-order here: https://ditto.fm/welcome-to-the-rest-of-your-life
The album is preceded by lead-off single 'Parasite,' which carries plenty of blues rockin' snap and electrical boogie-crackle.
Entitled Welcome To The Rest Of Your Life, the eleven track album builds from 2023’s tremendously well received Older Stronger Better; while that debut placed a marker down on how to deliver soulful blues and more rugged rock-blues, the sophomore release carries more musical breadth and bluesier shades than its predecessor.
Pre-order here: https://ditto.fm/welcome-to-the-rest-of-your-life
The album is preceded by lead-off single 'Parasite,' which carries plenty of blues rockin' snap and electrical boogie-crackle.
"We’ve been working towards this album almost as soon as we finished the last, we wanted to keep that momentum going," explains vocalist Paul Sloway.
"Also, we wanted the music on this one to reflect where we are in our lives. We’re definitely getting on a bit now, but life experience has made us stronger than ever, and I think we’re right at the top of our game."
As was the case with Older Stronger Better and the two prior EPs, Welcome To The Rest Of Your Life continues the band ethos of real, relatable songs played by real musicians, and those aforementioned life experiences, of which the mid-tempo purpose of the title track, which opens the album, perfectly underlines.
"The songs are full of pain, loss, failure, disappointment, but also joy, excitement, and lots of hope" continues Paul. "We’re getting older, but the best years aren’t behind us, they’re still to come, and we wanted that feeling in the music."
Last year was an exciting year for Bison Hip, with a host of live shows across the UK.
"We absolutely love getting out there and showing people what we’re all about," adds Paul. "It’s taken us a long time to get here, we’ve arrived fashionably late, but the wait has been worth it!"
With the new album and plenty of live shows across the country already confirmed, 2024 looks like being the year where Bison Hip, a modern and highly soulful blues rock band, truly make their mark.
"With Older Stronger Better and the even more accomplished new album, Bison Hip prove you can teach younger-aged bands with much longer career histories a thing or three about songcraft, melody, arrangement and thoughtful lyricism." - FabricationsHQ
Bison Hip are: Paul Sloway - vocals; John Gilmour Smith - guitars; Malcolm Button - drums; Steven Radziwonik - keys; Graeme Carswell - bass
Website/ other merch: https://www.bisonhip.com/
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"Also, we wanted the music on this one to reflect where we are in our lives. We’re definitely getting on a bit now, but life experience has made us stronger than ever, and I think we’re right at the top of our game."
As was the case with Older Stronger Better and the two prior EPs, Welcome To The Rest Of Your Life continues the band ethos of real, relatable songs played by real musicians, and those aforementioned life experiences, of which the mid-tempo purpose of the title track, which opens the album, perfectly underlines.
"The songs are full of pain, loss, failure, disappointment, but also joy, excitement, and lots of hope" continues Paul. "We’re getting older, but the best years aren’t behind us, they’re still to come, and we wanted that feeling in the music."
Last year was an exciting year for Bison Hip, with a host of live shows across the UK.
"We absolutely love getting out there and showing people what we’re all about," adds Paul. "It’s taken us a long time to get here, we’ve arrived fashionably late, but the wait has been worth it!"
With the new album and plenty of live shows across the country already confirmed, 2024 looks like being the year where Bison Hip, a modern and highly soulful blues rock band, truly make their mark.
"With Older Stronger Better and the even more accomplished new album, Bison Hip prove you can teach younger-aged bands with much longer career histories a thing or three about songcraft, melody, arrangement and thoughtful lyricism." - FabricationsHQ
Bison Hip are: Paul Sloway - vocals; John Gilmour Smith - guitars; Malcolm Button - drums; Steven Radziwonik - keys; Graeme Carswell - bass
Website/ other merch: https://www.bisonhip.com/
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The Milk Men, known for their sharp sounding (and sharp dressed) live performances and innovative R&B take on the blues-rock sound, have mixed their renowned rhythm and blues with trouble and blues on brand new single, 'Hungover.'
The new single is a further taster of the band’s forthcoming, and best to date, studio album, Holy Cow!
Following on from the rhythm and country blues groove of 'One Man Band,' the short, snappy and boogie infectious 'Hungover' is "a simple tale about lacking self-discipline and keeping bad company," says the band’s singer Jamie Smy.
"We've all got those friends who lead us astray. Trying to do the right thing but always finding yourself back in the same old hole, and the only way out of the hole is to repeat and, as the song, says, ‘let the good times roll!’
A lot of research went into the lyrics for this song!" laughingly concludes Jamie.
"We wanted a tight, punchy, catchy track with some swagger that you can really get in to," says the band’s guitarist & co-producer Adam Norsworthy.
"And the song tells a funny, light-hearted story most of us can probably relate to!"
That story is reflected in the accompanying video, which sees all four band members donning costumes to portray the song’s various characters: the preacher, the pimp, the angel and the devil.
"We had great fun making the video," says Jamie. "I think from the first shot to the last you can see we are not taking ourselves too seriously… and we never do… but we take the music very seriously."
"Yes, it’s intentionally cheesy, which is kind of fitting for four Milk Men!" adds Adam.
"But then what do you do when your video director is called away on a big job at the last minute? You go down to the charity shop, buy some cheap costumes and put together the most DIY video in history!"
'Hungover' is available on all digital platforms here: https://themilkmen.hearnow.com/hungover
The new single is a further taster of the band’s forthcoming, and best to date, studio album, Holy Cow!
Following on from the rhythm and country blues groove of 'One Man Band,' the short, snappy and boogie infectious 'Hungover' is "a simple tale about lacking self-discipline and keeping bad company," says the band’s singer Jamie Smy.
"We've all got those friends who lead us astray. Trying to do the right thing but always finding yourself back in the same old hole, and the only way out of the hole is to repeat and, as the song, says, ‘let the good times roll!’
A lot of research went into the lyrics for this song!" laughingly concludes Jamie.
"We wanted a tight, punchy, catchy track with some swagger that you can really get in to," says the band’s guitarist & co-producer Adam Norsworthy.
"And the song tells a funny, light-hearted story most of us can probably relate to!"
That story is reflected in the accompanying video, which sees all four band members donning costumes to portray the song’s various characters: the preacher, the pimp, the angel and the devil.
"We had great fun making the video," says Jamie. "I think from the first shot to the last you can see we are not taking ourselves too seriously… and we never do… but we take the music very seriously."
"Yes, it’s intentionally cheesy, which is kind of fitting for four Milk Men!" adds Adam.
"But then what do you do when your video director is called away on a big job at the last minute? You go down to the charity shop, buy some cheap costumes and put together the most DIY video in history!"
'Hungover' is available on all digital platforms here: https://themilkmen.hearnow.com/hungover
Scheduled for release on May 3rd, Holy Cow! marks the band's fifth studio album, following a string of critically acclaimed releases. With a reputation as one of the most dynamic live acts on the circuit, The Milk Men have earned five nominations at the UK Blues Awards and were finalists in the UK Blues Challenge, solidifying their status as premier purveyors of British R'n'B talent.
To pre-order your signed copy of "Holy Cow " on CD or Vinyl, visit The Milk Men merchandise page: https://www.themilkmenmusic.com/uk-merchandise.html
Pre-ordering means you will receive your copy of the album by post a few days before the official release date; you will also receive (in the next couple of weeks, via email) a free download of an exclusive remix of one of the band’s most popular early tracks, 'Make Mine A Double' -- the perfect complement to Hungover!
You can also pre-order the album from Apple Music/ iTunes by clicking here.
Of the album, guitarist and co-producer Adam Norsworthy says "This is a leaner, tougher, and more dynamic album than any we have made before, but still dripping with hooks and some great lyrics. It’s very much what we do... just better than ever!"
Lead singer Jamie Smy adds, "This album has a number of core themes which could all be bracketed under 'the blues' in terms of subject matter, if not musically. Holy Cow is far rawer than our other albums with less overdubs and less backing vocals, but still packed with hooks, melody, and attitude."
The band are completed by the tight, tidy and R&B sharp rhythm section of former Pirate Mike Roberts on drums and Lloyd Green (son of guitar legend Mick Green) on bass.
The Milk Men – Live Dates 2024
26 April -Leeds Blues Club
27 April -Bosworth Blues Festival
16 May -Red Arrow Club, Ramsgate
18 May -Live@Eastwell Village Hall, Melton Mowbray
31 May - Venue 16, Ipswich (supporting Dr. Feelgood)
1 June - The Bird In Hand, Fareham, Hampshire
8 June - The Musician, Leicester
15 June - Boogaloo Festival, Toorak Hotel, Torquay
18 June - Tuesday Night Music Club, Coulsdon
27 June - The Half Moon, Putney
28 June - Blues At The Bay, Stockton
29 June - Saltburn Blues Club, N Yorkshire
30 June - The Cluny, Newcastle
6 July - Alfold Blues Festival
12 July -100 Club, Oxford Street (Supporting the Dirt Road Band)
21 July - Upton Blues Festival
3 August- Cambridge Rock Festival
25 August- Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival, Colne, Lancashire
14 September - Barleylands Blues Club
5 October- Swanage Blues Festival
15 October- The Music Den, Epping
25 October- Joe Joe Jim's, Birmingham
27 October - The Flying Circus, Newark
15 November- Blues on a Friday, The Butler, Reading
17 November- Pizza Express, The Pheasantry, Chelsea
14 December - The Musician, Leicester
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To pre-order your signed copy of "Holy Cow " on CD or Vinyl, visit The Milk Men merchandise page: https://www.themilkmenmusic.com/uk-merchandise.html
Pre-ordering means you will receive your copy of the album by post a few days before the official release date; you will also receive (in the next couple of weeks, via email) a free download of an exclusive remix of one of the band’s most popular early tracks, 'Make Mine A Double' -- the perfect complement to Hungover!
You can also pre-order the album from Apple Music/ iTunes by clicking here.
Of the album, guitarist and co-producer Adam Norsworthy says "This is a leaner, tougher, and more dynamic album than any we have made before, but still dripping with hooks and some great lyrics. It’s very much what we do... just better than ever!"
Lead singer Jamie Smy adds, "This album has a number of core themes which could all be bracketed under 'the blues' in terms of subject matter, if not musically. Holy Cow is far rawer than our other albums with less overdubs and less backing vocals, but still packed with hooks, melody, and attitude."
The band are completed by the tight, tidy and R&B sharp rhythm section of former Pirate Mike Roberts on drums and Lloyd Green (son of guitar legend Mick Green) on bass.
The Milk Men – Live Dates 2024
26 April -Leeds Blues Club
27 April -Bosworth Blues Festival
16 May -Red Arrow Club, Ramsgate
18 May -Live@Eastwell Village Hall, Melton Mowbray
31 May - Venue 16, Ipswich (supporting Dr. Feelgood)
1 June - The Bird In Hand, Fareham, Hampshire
8 June - The Musician, Leicester
15 June - Boogaloo Festival, Toorak Hotel, Torquay
18 June - Tuesday Night Music Club, Coulsdon
27 June - The Half Moon, Putney
28 June - Blues At The Bay, Stockton
29 June - Saltburn Blues Club, N Yorkshire
30 June - The Cluny, Newcastle
6 July - Alfold Blues Festival
12 July -100 Club, Oxford Street (Supporting the Dirt Road Band)
21 July - Upton Blues Festival
3 August- Cambridge Rock Festival
25 August- Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival, Colne, Lancashire
14 September - Barleylands Blues Club
5 October- Swanage Blues Festival
15 October- The Music Den, Epping
25 October- Joe Joe Jim's, Birmingham
27 October - The Flying Circus, Newark
15 November- Blues on a Friday, The Butler, Reading
17 November- Pizza Express, The Pheasantry, Chelsea
14 December - The Musician, Leicester
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Following the announcement of their forthcoming studio album Restless and a brace of supporting singles, Canadian roots rock band The Commoners have released a new single entitled 'See You Again' from the album and confirmed a Summer UK Tour of festival and club dates from July 19th to 28th (see tour poster further below).
Tickets are on sale from: www.thecommoners.ca and alttickets.com
The emotive and roots-gospel framed 'See You Again,' an ode to love and loss, good times and memories made, is a tribute to Greg Cannon, father of Commoners drummer Adam Cannon, who passed away when the band were on tour in the UK in 2023.
"We were in Sheffield when we received the news," remembers Commoners lead singer, Chris Medhurst. "Adam was faced with the impossible decision if he should fly back to Canada to be with his father in his final moments. Greg, being a drummer himself, wanted nothing more than for Adam to keep going and make the family name proud.
"A couple of days later in Birmingham, the decision was made for us. We played for Greg that night and have continued to do so every night since. See You Again is inspired by, and dedicated to, Greg but it’s also a message that each of us has been able to contextualize within our own lives, honouring the memory of people we’ve loved and lost, to those no longer with us."
Tickets are on sale from: www.thecommoners.ca and alttickets.com
The emotive and roots-gospel framed 'See You Again,' an ode to love and loss, good times and memories made, is a tribute to Greg Cannon, father of Commoners drummer Adam Cannon, who passed away when the band were on tour in the UK in 2023.
"We were in Sheffield when we received the news," remembers Commoners lead singer, Chris Medhurst. "Adam was faced with the impossible decision if he should fly back to Canada to be with his father in his final moments. Greg, being a drummer himself, wanted nothing more than for Adam to keep going and make the family name proud.
"A couple of days later in Birmingham, the decision was made for us. We played for Greg that night and have continued to do so every night since. See You Again is inspired by, and dedicated to, Greg but it’s also a message that each of us has been able to contextualize within our own lives, honouring the memory of people we’ve loved and lost, to those no longer with us."
Stream/ listen to the single here: https://lnk.fuga.com/thecommoners_seeyouagain
Following their critically acclaimed 2022 sophomore album Find A Better Way, and having wrapped up a busy 2023 with recording sessions and a UK tour supporting Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, The Commoners have solidified their position as a must-watch and must see act, something that will be strongly underlined with Restless when it's releasd on July 5th.
Pre-order the album here: https://thecommoners.ca/STORE/
"As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots," says The Commoners guitarist Ross Hayes Citrullo.
"By adding the soul and rock elements of The Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across those music genres."
Following their critically acclaimed 2022 sophomore album Find A Better Way, and having wrapped up a busy 2023 with recording sessions and a UK tour supporting Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, The Commoners have solidified their position as a must-watch and must see act, something that will be strongly underlined with Restless when it's releasd on July 5th.
Pre-order the album here: https://thecommoners.ca/STORE/
"As with our previous album, we wanted to marry old and new southern rock together in a way that was unique to the band’s Canadian roots," says The Commoners guitarist Ross Hayes Citrullo.
"By adding the soul and rock elements of The Black Crowes, and the southern blues rock undertones of The Allman Brothers to a production style akin to Blackberry Smoke and Rival Sons, I think we developed an authentic sound that compares sonically to some of our favourite records across those music genres."
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British melodic rockers FM, currently on their 40th Anniversary UK Tour (see poster further below), have released a new single entitled 'Don't Need Another Heartache.'
Stream here: https://orcd.co/fmdontneedanotherheartache
The single will feature on the band's forthcoming, and fourteenth, studio album Old Habits Die Hard, which will be released on Frontiers Records on May 3rd. Pre-order the album at: https://orcd.co/oldhabitsdiehard
"Don't Need Another Heartache draws influences from the band's love for bands like free and Bad Company," says FM’s lead singer and co-founder Steve Overland. "It’s a straight-to-the-point, classic blues rock track with a kind of early Foreigner/ Bad Company vibe. Lyrically it’s about a guy that’s been in a bad relationship for too long, but he’s finally had enough."
Stream here: https://orcd.co/fmdontneedanotherheartache
The single will feature on the band's forthcoming, and fourteenth, studio album Old Habits Die Hard, which will be released on Frontiers Records on May 3rd. Pre-order the album at: https://orcd.co/oldhabitsdiehard
"Don't Need Another Heartache draws influences from the band's love for bands like free and Bad Company," says FM’s lead singer and co-founder Steve Overland. "It’s a straight-to-the-point, classic blues rock track with a kind of early Foreigner/ Bad Company vibe. Lyrically it’s about a guy that’s been in a bad relationship for too long, but he’s finally had enough."
Old Habits Die Hard was delayed slightly by keyboard player Jem Davis' cancer diagnosis (thankfully he’s now received the all-clear) and then by the sudden passing of previous FM member and co-founder, guitarist Chris Overland (brother of FM front man Steve Overland), which hit the band hard.
"Chris’s passing came out of the blue and it was devastating," says Steve. To add insult to injury, close friend of the band and long-time collaborator of our guitarist Jim Kirkpatrick, Bernie Marsden passed away just two days after Chris."
The tragedies that plagued the band through the recording process only reinforced FM’s resolve and desire to make the best album that they could to represent their 40 years in the business.
The new album is also a fitting tribute to Chris Overland.
Tickets for the ongoing 40th Anniversary tour, which features different special guest supports across a number of the dates (Brave Rival, Collateral, Romeo's Daughter, Hand Of Dimes) are available via: thegigcartel.com and www.fmofficial.com
"Chris’s passing came out of the blue and it was devastating," says Steve. To add insult to injury, close friend of the band and long-time collaborator of our guitarist Jim Kirkpatrick, Bernie Marsden passed away just two days after Chris."
The tragedies that plagued the band through the recording process only reinforced FM’s resolve and desire to make the best album that they could to represent their 40 years in the business.
The new album is also a fitting tribute to Chris Overland.
Tickets for the ongoing 40th Anniversary tour, which features different special guest supports across a number of the dates (Brave Rival, Collateral, Romeo's Daughter, Hand Of Dimes) are available via: thegigcartel.com and www.fmofficial.com
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Californian based, Louisiana influenced roots rockers Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse will kick off their second headline tour of the UK on 16th April (see full tour itinerary below).
The tour is in support of the band’s forthcoming, and third, album Hot Nostalgia Radio.
The band have also set up a Hot Nostalgia Radio pre-sale on their bandcamp page for the Deluxe Editions (double vinyl on two 45s and CD versions) of the album.
Both versions are limited release to only 500 and 1000 copies worldwide respectively and come with a 12-page lyric and photo booklet.
As a surprise gift to their fans, all LP & CD pre-orders will come with a digital download of the album in its entirety, starting now, at https://www.beauxgrisgris.com/
(The idea came from one of the band’s fans on their Facebook fan group who suggested letting the fans contribute to the support of the new tour by purchasing the album early. As a band that preaches it exists entirely for its hardcore fan base, the band is Leaning In on fandom, and rewarding big).
The official album release date is May 3rd.
The tour is in support of the band’s forthcoming, and third, album Hot Nostalgia Radio.
The band have also set up a Hot Nostalgia Radio pre-sale on their bandcamp page for the Deluxe Editions (double vinyl on two 45s and CD versions) of the album.
Both versions are limited release to only 500 and 1000 copies worldwide respectively and come with a 12-page lyric and photo booklet.
As a surprise gift to their fans, all LP & CD pre-orders will come with a digital download of the album in its entirety, starting now, at https://www.beauxgrisgris.com/
(The idea came from one of the band’s fans on their Facebook fan group who suggested letting the fans contribute to the support of the new tour by purchasing the album early. As a band that preaches it exists entirely for its hardcore fan base, the band is Leaning In on fandom, and rewarding big).
The official album release date is May 3rd.
Note: All headline shows will also be audio-recorded (except festivals); Hot Nostalgia Radio bootlegs:
www.beauxgrisgris.bandcamp.com
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www.beauxgrisgris.bandcamp.com
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Robert Jon & The Wreck, the outstanding southern/ roots rock & roll collective from Southern California, have confirmed the forthcoming release of their new album, Red Moon Rising.
Released worldwide on June 28th by Joe Bonamassa's Journeyman Records, the album is available to pre-order by clicking here.
Following the release of the funk & psychedelia tinged title track and bluesier 'Dragging Me Down' as singles, the band have now released the introspective, acoustic based 'Worried Man' as a third taster, and colour, of what to expect from an album that will showcase a wider mudical palette.
Stream 'Worried Mind' here: https://ffm.to/kmkxbr6
Co-written with Nashville's Austin Jenckes, 'Worried Man' captures the necessity of conversations and the importance of sharing one's fears with others.
"The song was inspired by how important it is to talk with others about the worries that you may have, because when you hold it in, it can become overwhelming," shares frontman Robert Jon Burrison.
Recorded live with three acoustic guitars, harmonica, and Robert Jon's signature vocals, the song stands proud as one of the standout tracks on Red Moon Rising. "It's a very bare bones sound compared to the rest of the record." concludes Robert Jon.
Released worldwide on June 28th by Joe Bonamassa's Journeyman Records, the album is available to pre-order by clicking here.
Following the release of the funk & psychedelia tinged title track and bluesier 'Dragging Me Down' as singles, the band have now released the introspective, acoustic based 'Worried Man' as a third taster, and colour, of what to expect from an album that will showcase a wider mudical palette.
Stream 'Worried Mind' here: https://ffm.to/kmkxbr6
Co-written with Nashville's Austin Jenckes, 'Worried Man' captures the necessity of conversations and the importance of sharing one's fears with others.
"The song was inspired by how important it is to talk with others about the worries that you may have, because when you hold it in, it can become overwhelming," shares frontman Robert Jon Burrison.
Recorded live with three acoustic guitars, harmonica, and Robert Jon's signature vocals, the song stands proud as one of the standout tracks on Red Moon Rising. "It's a very bare bones sound compared to the rest of the record." concludes Robert Jon.
RJ&TW will be back in the UK in November and December for a headline winter tour (see poster below).
Tickets are on sale now from ROBERTJONANDTHEWRECK.COM, GIGANTIC and ALTTICKETS.COM
Since forming in 2011, Robert Jon & The Wreck – Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, backing vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar, backing vocals), Warren Murrel (bass) and recently joining as an official member, Jake Abernathie (keys) – have consistently grown, both in musical prowess and fanbase.
In addition to the release of last years's studio album Ride Into The Light, 2023 also saw RJTW release their first-ever concert film, Live At The Ancienne Belgique - the live CD/DVD set captured the Wreck amid their longest-ever tour (67 performances in 75 days across 9 countries).
Tickets are on sale now from ROBERTJONANDTHEWRECK.COM, GIGANTIC and ALTTICKETS.COM
Since forming in 2011, Robert Jon & The Wreck – Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, backing vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar, backing vocals), Warren Murrel (bass) and recently joining as an official member, Jake Abernathie (keys) – have consistently grown, both in musical prowess and fanbase.
In addition to the release of last years's studio album Ride Into The Light, 2023 also saw RJTW release their first-ever concert film, Live At The Ancienne Belgique - the live CD/DVD set captured the Wreck amid their longest-ever tour (67 performances in 75 days across 9 countries).
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Internationally acclaimed guitarist & composer Al Di Meola has released a new single entitled 'For Only You.'
Listen/ Stream 'For Only You' at: https://aldimeola.lnk.to/ForOnlyYouPR
As with previous single, the innovative fusion piece 'Fandango,' the new single, a delicate acoustic gem that draws from classic musical schemes, offers another glimpse into Di Meola's forthcoming studio album Twentyfour, released on earMusic on July 19th.
Listen/ Stream 'For Only You' at: https://aldimeola.lnk.to/ForOnlyYouPR
As with previous single, the innovative fusion piece 'Fandango,' the new single, a delicate acoustic gem that draws from classic musical schemes, offers another glimpse into Di Meola's forthcoming studio album Twentyfour, released on earMusic on July 19th.
Al Di Meola's forthcoming new album Twentyfour, is a testament to creativity.
Conceived during the tumultuous times of the pandemic, what started as a simple acoustic project evolved into something grander – the initial intention, to craft a reflective acoustic album on the challenges of the time, expanded exponentially as he found himself unable to resist the allure of musical exploration.
Over the span of four years, Twentyfour blossomed into another Di Meola masterpiece, brimming with intricately woven melodies, diverse instrumentation, and captivating highlights.
The album will be released on July 19th.
Pre-order: https://aldimeola.lnk.to/Twentyfour
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Conceived during the tumultuous times of the pandemic, what started as a simple acoustic project evolved into something grander – the initial intention, to craft a reflective acoustic album on the challenges of the time, expanded exponentially as he found himself unable to resist the allure of musical exploration.
Over the span of four years, Twentyfour blossomed into another Di Meola masterpiece, brimming with intricately woven melodies, diverse instrumentation, and captivating highlights.
The album will be released on July 19th.
Pre-order: https://aldimeola.lnk.to/Twentyfour
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British hard rocker riffers The Treatment have released a new single entitled 'When Thunder and Lightning Strikes,' a fist-pumping slab of mid-tempo rock that unashamedly and intentionally nods to classic 70s rock.
The single is lifted from their forthcoming, and sixth, studio album Wake Up The Neighbourhood, which will be released on May 10th on Frontiers Music.
Pre-order the album at: https://orcd.co/thetreatmentwutn
Of the album, the band say: "We wanted to create an album that pays homage to the golden era of rock 'n' roll while infusing our own modern twist. With Wake Up The Neighbourhood'we've pushed ourselves to new heights and crafted an album we're truly proud of."
The single is lifted from their forthcoming, and sixth, studio album Wake Up The Neighbourhood, which will be released on May 10th on Frontiers Music.
Pre-order the album at: https://orcd.co/thetreatmentwutn
Of the album, the band say: "We wanted to create an album that pays homage to the golden era of rock 'n' roll while infusing our own modern twist. With Wake Up The Neighbourhood'we've pushed ourselves to new heights and crafted an album we're truly proud of."
The Treatment, formed in 2008, released their debut album This Might Hurt in 2011.
The well received debut was followed by Running With The Dogs (2014), Generation Me (2016), Power Crazy (2019) and Waiting For Good Luck (2021).
Combining the drive of early AC/DC with the low-slung riffing redolent of early Aerosmith, The Treatment is unashamedly inspired by an era when rock bands looked like rock bands, were intent on causing a stir, and when music was, indeed, waking up the neighbourhood...
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The well received debut was followed by Running With The Dogs (2014), Generation Me (2016), Power Crazy (2019) and Waiting For Good Luck (2021).
Combining the drive of early AC/DC with the low-slung riffing redolent of early Aerosmith, The Treatment is unashamedly inspired by an era when rock bands looked like rock bands, were intent on causing a stir, and when music was, indeed, waking up the neighbourhood...
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Supergroup Black Country Communion, featuring the talents of Glenn Hughes, Joe Bonamassa, Jason Bonham and Derek Sherinian, have released a new single from their forthcoming album, V, which will be released on June 14th.
The brooding and bluesy 'Red Sun' follows the heavy funk of lead-off single 'Stay Free;' both act as tasters of what to expect on the band's highly anticipated fifth album.
Listen to/ stream 'Red Sun' here: https://ffm.to/bppapbd
The brooding and bluesy 'Red Sun' follows the heavy funk of lead-off single 'Stay Free;' both act as tasters of what to expect on the band's highly anticipated fifth album.
Listen to/ stream 'Red Sun' here: https://ffm.to/bppapbd
Produced by longtime collaborator Kevin Shirley, V marks a new chapter in the band’s career – one that embodies a renewed spirit and an evolution of their sound.
"For a band that started out as a collection of the best practitioners of their instruments, they very quickly found a unique sound" says Shirley, before confirming that "this time around, it has more purpose, the riffs are tougher, and there are hooks - yes, hooks! It’s their most cohesive record, full of soul and grit; I think this is the one that’s going to be the benchmark for Black Country Communion."
"In my opinion, we had the best time recording this record at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, tons of fun & a magical recording. Meet you inside the Music." - Glenn Hughes
The news of the album and singles follows the announcement of the band’s upcoming performance at the Culture Room in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 17th (the first live performance in America from the band in over eleven years).
Presented by Joe Bonamassa's Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation, all profits from the concert will be donated to support music education and musicians in need.
The band is also set to appear on the Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea cruise, sailing from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico from March 18th-22nd.
V is available for pre-order along with other related merch at: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/bcc-v
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"For a band that started out as a collection of the best practitioners of their instruments, they very quickly found a unique sound" says Shirley, before confirming that "this time around, it has more purpose, the riffs are tougher, and there are hooks - yes, hooks! It’s their most cohesive record, full of soul and grit; I think this is the one that’s going to be the benchmark for Black Country Communion."
"In my opinion, we had the best time recording this record at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, tons of fun & a magical recording. Meet you inside the Music." - Glenn Hughes
The news of the album and singles follows the announcement of the band’s upcoming performance at the Culture Room in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 17th (the first live performance in America from the band in over eleven years).
Presented by Joe Bonamassa's Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation, all profits from the concert will be donated to support music education and musicians in need.
The band is also set to appear on the Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea cruise, sailing from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico from March 18th-22nd.
V is available for pre-order along with other related merch at: https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/bcc-v
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Calling all Glasgow based and further afield Scottish blues fans…
The fourth Glasgow Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival will take place on Sunday 28th April at the Oran Mor.
The event, which is looking like it may be heading towards a sell-out, is a five band, afternoon-to-evening feature co-headlined by Elles Bailey and Cardinal Black, both of whom will perform a 75 minute set (see full event line-up on a post, further below).
With just three weeks until the festival, we’re looking at some of the acts who will be performing; last time around it was young blues troubadour Connor Selby, this time around its Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse.
California-based roots-rock band Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse are fronted by the Louisiana born and bred, multi-ward winning singer & songwriter Greta Valenti, and feature the talents of British guitarist Robin Davey (the youngest ever inductee into the British Blues Hall of Fame, Davey spent time as an artist on Atlantic and Interscope Records; he has recorded with a wide spectrum of artists from Mick Jagger to Katy Perry).
The band’s heady and distinctive brand of roots-rock, which includes everything from Americana-country and soul to indie, rock and Louisiana blues, was heard to fine effect on 2019’s eclectic and inspired debut album Love & Murder, which spurned a number of Top 10 hits in genre charts across Europe.
The band followed up Love & Murder with Good Times End Times in 2022, which led to the band gaining momentum across the UK and Europe for both their genre-bending music and acclaimed, one-of-a-kind live shows.
On May 3rd, Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse will expand their eclectic yet alluring sound further with a new, 14 track album entitled Hot Nostalgia Radios.
The album has been preceded by lead-off single, the hot and rockin' 'Satisfy Your Queen' and current release, raucous 'n' bluesy "Louisiana to California" banger, 'Oh Yeah!'
The fourth Glasgow Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival will take place on Sunday 28th April at the Oran Mor.
The event, which is looking like it may be heading towards a sell-out, is a five band, afternoon-to-evening feature co-headlined by Elles Bailey and Cardinal Black, both of whom will perform a 75 minute set (see full event line-up on a post, further below).
With just three weeks until the festival, we’re looking at some of the acts who will be performing; last time around it was young blues troubadour Connor Selby, this time around its Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse.
California-based roots-rock band Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse are fronted by the Louisiana born and bred, multi-ward winning singer & songwriter Greta Valenti, and feature the talents of British guitarist Robin Davey (the youngest ever inductee into the British Blues Hall of Fame, Davey spent time as an artist on Atlantic and Interscope Records; he has recorded with a wide spectrum of artists from Mick Jagger to Katy Perry).
The band’s heady and distinctive brand of roots-rock, which includes everything from Americana-country and soul to indie, rock and Louisiana blues, was heard to fine effect on 2019’s eclectic and inspired debut album Love & Murder, which spurned a number of Top 10 hits in genre charts across Europe.
The band followed up Love & Murder with Good Times End Times in 2022, which led to the band gaining momentum across the UK and Europe for both their genre-bending music and acclaimed, one-of-a-kind live shows.
On May 3rd, Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse will expand their eclectic yet alluring sound further with a new, 14 track album entitled Hot Nostalgia Radios.
The album has been preceded by lead-off single, the hot and rockin' 'Satisfy Your Queen' and current release, raucous 'n' bluesy "Louisiana to California" banger, 'Oh Yeah!'
"Beaux Gris Gris is stoked to play Glasgow for the first time and with incredible headliners such as Cardinal Black and Elles Bailey. We can’t wait to party with all of you lovely Glaswegians! Let’s Get Wild, Scotland!"
- Greta Valenti (aka Beaux Gris Gris)
Glasgow Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival
Oran Mor, Glasgow, Sunday April 28th
Event Time: 2pm - 10pm
Doors Open: 1.30pm
Over 14's to Under 18’s to be accompanied with adult
Further info, event/ line-up poster and ticket link (click on headings above event poster): https://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/glasgow/index.html
Direct ticket link:
https://tickets-scotland.com//events.html?event_method=viewevent&event_id=818bbc31-968d-11ee-9c74-0abd380b6c94
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- Greta Valenti (aka Beaux Gris Gris)
Glasgow Blues Rhythm & Rock Festival
Oran Mor, Glasgow, Sunday April 28th
Event Time: 2pm - 10pm
Doors Open: 1.30pm
Over 14's to Under 18’s to be accompanied with adult
Further info, event/ line-up poster and ticket link (click on headings above event poster): https://www.solidentertainments.com/blues/glasgow/index.html
Direct ticket link:
https://tickets-scotland.com//events.html?event_method=viewevent&event_id=818bbc31-968d-11ee-9c74-0abd380b6c94
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After the recent release of a brand new single and announcement of forthcoming new studio album, award-winning and genre-blending roots-singer-songwriter Elles Bailey has now confirmed her biggest headline tour to date.
Bailey’s 16 date Autumn & Winter UK tour (see dates further below) will feature and promote songs from her new album Beneath The Neon Glow (out August 9th on Cooking Vinyl Records), including current single and album opener 'Enjoy The Ride.'
Pre-sale tickets for the tour can be accessed by ordering the new album at: https://ellesbailey.tmstor.es/
General Sale for tickets starts on Friday, April 12th @ 10.00am
"I feel so incredibly excited to finally be able to take my upcoming album on tour this autumn with my incredible live band" says Elles. "This is by far my biggest tour to date, playing bucket list venues as a headline artist. I’m so grateful for my fans for supporting me on my journey so far and can’t wait to share these new stories with them. Oh, the adventures we shall have. Sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride!"
Bailey’s 16 date Autumn & Winter UK tour (see dates further below) will feature and promote songs from her new album Beneath The Neon Glow (out August 9th on Cooking Vinyl Records), including current single and album opener 'Enjoy The Ride.'
Pre-sale tickets for the tour can be accessed by ordering the new album at: https://ellesbailey.tmstor.es/
General Sale for tickets starts on Friday, April 12th @ 10.00am
"I feel so incredibly excited to finally be able to take my upcoming album on tour this autumn with my incredible live band" says Elles. "This is by far my biggest tour to date, playing bucket list venues as a headline artist. I’m so grateful for my fans for supporting me on my journey so far and can’t wait to share these new stories with them. Oh, the adventures we shall have. Sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride!"
Beneath The Neon Glow sees Elles Bailey intertwine British roots, Americana and blues across ten powerfully uplifting tracks.
Produced by Dan Weller (Enter Shikari) and recorded with Elles’ exceptional and trusted live band, the album is an exploration of love's myriad forms. Through lyrically vulnerable and brutally honest songwriting, Elles delves into the depths of heartbreak, the resilience of friendship, and the enduring power of love that spans a lifetime.
"I might be new to some people, but I have been around for quite a long while" continues the husky & honey-voiced songstress. "I'm not here for a flash-in-the-pan moment. I want a long-term career in music. I love that I get to take it around the world so, if I can continue to do that, and just play to larger audiences and continue to grow, that's exactly what I'll do."
With a Top 50 album in Shining In The Half Light, achieved independently, an ever-growing fanbase, countless awards and a weekly radio show on Planet Rock, Elles Bailey is ready to take the next step – and with Beneath The Neon Glow, there’s no better album for her to take that journey with.
Produced by Dan Weller (Enter Shikari) and recorded with Elles’ exceptional and trusted live band, the album is an exploration of love's myriad forms. Through lyrically vulnerable and brutally honest songwriting, Elles delves into the depths of heartbreak, the resilience of friendship, and the enduring power of love that spans a lifetime.
"I might be new to some people, but I have been around for quite a long while" continues the husky & honey-voiced songstress. "I'm not here for a flash-in-the-pan moment. I want a long-term career in music. I love that I get to take it around the world so, if I can continue to do that, and just play to larger audiences and continue to grow, that's exactly what I'll do."
With a Top 50 album in Shining In The Half Light, achieved independently, an ever-growing fanbase, countless awards and a weekly radio show on Planet Rock, Elles Bailey is ready to take the next step – and with Beneath The Neon Glow, there’s no better album for her to take that journey with.
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Renowned Australian singer-guitarist Ian Moss, a premier guitarist with a voice as smooth as honey, will return to the UK in July for two special performances north and south of the country.
"Mossy" and his band will play Glasgow's King Tuts on Wednesday July 10th and Bush Hall in London on Friday 12th July.
Tickets for both performances are on sale from 9am on Thursday April 11th, via: www.ianmoss.com.au/tour or the venues: www.kingtuts.co.uk and www.bushhallmusic.co.uk
Opening in Glasgow will be Scottish singer-songwriter Willie Campbell.
Based on the Isle of Lewis, Campbell first came to widespread attention as a member of the band Astrid and now with his solo career.
"Willie Campbell rises above all other references and stakes his claim to being one of the country's truly great pop songwriters" - The Herald.
In London, Ian Moss & Band will be supported by Australian London-based singer-songwriter Liz Stringer.
With a career spanning six studio albums and a slew of honours, Stringer’s notoriously powerful live performances and melodically rich, story-based songs have earned her a place among the most important Australian songwriters of the modern era.
Ian Moss has been mesmerizing audiences in Australia as a founding member of one of Australia's best loved rock bands, Cold Chisel, and through a stellar solo career for over 40 years.
His latest album, 2023’s outstanding and soulful The Rivers Run Dry, has recently been rereleased as a Deluxe Edition with six previously unreleased live tracks, including the first ever Moss & Band recording of the classic 'Georgia On My Mind;' all six songs were recorded at Sydney’s Enmore Theatre in August 2023 on the Rivers Run Dry tour.
Aside from Cold Chisel and the current success of Rivers Run Dry, Ian Moss has released a further seven acclaimed studio albums, including critically acclaimed debut album (and Australian #1) Matchbook in 1989.
"One of Australia's best guitarists with a gorgeous, soulful voice." - Sydney Morning Herald
"There's a cohesion to Rivers Run Dry that's largely down to Moss's proven prowess as a vocalist and guitarist." - The Australian
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"Mossy" and his band will play Glasgow's King Tuts on Wednesday July 10th and Bush Hall in London on Friday 12th July.
Tickets for both performances are on sale from 9am on Thursday April 11th, via: www.ianmoss.com.au/tour or the venues: www.kingtuts.co.uk and www.bushhallmusic.co.uk
Opening in Glasgow will be Scottish singer-songwriter Willie Campbell.
Based on the Isle of Lewis, Campbell first came to widespread attention as a member of the band Astrid and now with his solo career.
"Willie Campbell rises above all other references and stakes his claim to being one of the country's truly great pop songwriters" - The Herald.
In London, Ian Moss & Band will be supported by Australian London-based singer-songwriter Liz Stringer.
With a career spanning six studio albums and a slew of honours, Stringer’s notoriously powerful live performances and melodically rich, story-based songs have earned her a place among the most important Australian songwriters of the modern era.
Ian Moss has been mesmerizing audiences in Australia as a founding member of one of Australia's best loved rock bands, Cold Chisel, and through a stellar solo career for over 40 years.
His latest album, 2023’s outstanding and soulful The Rivers Run Dry, has recently been rereleased as a Deluxe Edition with six previously unreleased live tracks, including the first ever Moss & Band recording of the classic 'Georgia On My Mind;' all six songs were recorded at Sydney’s Enmore Theatre in August 2023 on the Rivers Run Dry tour.
Aside from Cold Chisel and the current success of Rivers Run Dry, Ian Moss has released a further seven acclaimed studio albums, including critically acclaimed debut album (and Australian #1) Matchbook in 1989.
"One of Australia's best guitarists with a gorgeous, soulful voice." - Sydney Morning Herald
"There's a cohesion to Rivers Run Dry that's largely down to Moss's proven prowess as a vocalist and guitarist." - The Australian
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Anglo-Dutch rock/pop/prog act The Dave Foster Band will release their third album Maybe They’ll Come Back For Us on 31st May.
The album’s opening song, 'Sleep Spindles,' has been released as a single.
It can be listened to/ streamed here: https://ditto.fm/sleep-spindles
"I learned about sleep spindles while reading the brilliant 'Why We Sleep' by Matthew Walker," says guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Dave Foster. "They are a specific brain wave pattern that researchers believe is a process that our brains use for long term memory consolidation and sensory processing."
"I used to be a lecturer in Neuropsychology and did a course that taught me all about sleep spindles and the different stages of your brain while concentrating, at rest and asleep" continues vocalist Dinet Poortman.
"In the process of writing the lyric for the song I was having sleep issues for pretty much the first time ever and it got me thinking about the effects of sleep, or no sleep at all."
The album’s opening song, 'Sleep Spindles,' has been released as a single.
It can be listened to/ streamed here: https://ditto.fm/sleep-spindles
"I learned about sleep spindles while reading the brilliant 'Why We Sleep' by Matthew Walker," says guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Dave Foster. "They are a specific brain wave pattern that researchers believe is a process that our brains use for long term memory consolidation and sensory processing."
"I used to be a lecturer in Neuropsychology and did a course that taught me all about sleep spindles and the different stages of your brain while concentrating, at rest and asleep" continues vocalist Dinet Poortman.
"In the process of writing the lyric for the song I was having sleep issues for pretty much the first time ever and it got me thinking about the effects of sleep, or no sleep at all."
Maybe They’ll Come Back For Us will initially be available on CD and LP formats (Aqua Blue Vinyl), with download and streaming options to follow on 28th June.
Pre-order: https://burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings
Helmed by acclaimed guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Dave Foster and vocalist Dinet Poortman, the duo are joined on the album by regular collaborators bassist Neil Fairclough (Queen + Adam Lambert), drummer Leon Parr (Steve Rothery Band), pianist Anthony Hindley and string arranger Stephen Boyce Buckley.
There are also special guest star turn performamnces from guitarist Steve Rothery (Marillion), bassist Mark King (Level 42) and singer Carly Bryant (ex Big Big Train).
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Pre-order: https://burningshed.com/store/english-electric-recordings
Helmed by acclaimed guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Dave Foster and vocalist Dinet Poortman, the duo are joined on the album by regular collaborators bassist Neil Fairclough (Queen + Adam Lambert), drummer Leon Parr (Steve Rothery Band), pianist Anthony Hindley and string arranger Stephen Boyce Buckley.
There are also special guest star turn performamnces from guitarist Steve Rothery (Marillion), bassist Mark King (Level 42) and singer Carly Bryant (ex Big Big Train).
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Joe Satriani and Steve Vai have collaborated for the very first time on a new single and an accompanying video that humorously recalls their 50 year long frienship and a trip back to the 70s...
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Australian rocker Cassidy Paris and her band will perform their first ever headline tour of the UK this summer when they play 15 dates through July and August, plus a prestigious slot at the Steelhouse Festival.
See tour dates further below. Tickets are available from https://cassidyparis.com/shows
at the age of 11, Cassidy Paris met singer songwriter Paul Laine (ex Danger Danger, The Defiants), who developed a unique mentoring role. Laine took Paris Cassidy under his wing to help develop her as an artist and songwriter, collaborating with her in songwriting and producing her music.
In 2018, she released the song 'Stand,' a heartfelt song about "standing up for yourself" as a young woman. (She also promoted anti-bullying through performances at many schools around Melbourne, and became an active campaigner for the worldwide Metalheads Against Bullying organisation).
Following the release of two EPs, Cassidy Paris performed in America, Japan and the UK.
Her talents didn’t go unnoticed by guitar giants Fender, who lent support by bringing her on as an endorsee of Fender Guitars.
2022 saw the Cassidy Paris Band tour Australia with John Corabi and H.E.A.T, along with a 12 date UK tour.
In 2023, Cassidy Paris became the youngest artist to ever sign a record deal with Frontiers Music SRL; she released her melodically rocking debut album New Sensation in December to rave reviews.
She launched the album by touring the UK with her band for a second time to packed rooms at WinterStorm in Scotland, Planet Rockstock in Wales and a number of club dates in England.
See tour dates further below. Tickets are available from https://cassidyparis.com/shows
at the age of 11, Cassidy Paris met singer songwriter Paul Laine (ex Danger Danger, The Defiants), who developed a unique mentoring role. Laine took Paris Cassidy under his wing to help develop her as an artist and songwriter, collaborating with her in songwriting and producing her music.
In 2018, she released the song 'Stand,' a heartfelt song about "standing up for yourself" as a young woman. (She also promoted anti-bullying through performances at many schools around Melbourne, and became an active campaigner for the worldwide Metalheads Against Bullying organisation).
Following the release of two EPs, Cassidy Paris performed in America, Japan and the UK.
Her talents didn’t go unnoticed by guitar giants Fender, who lent support by bringing her on as an endorsee of Fender Guitars.
2022 saw the Cassidy Paris Band tour Australia with John Corabi and H.E.A.T, along with a 12 date UK tour.
In 2023, Cassidy Paris became the youngest artist to ever sign a record deal with Frontiers Music SRL; she released her melodically rocking debut album New Sensation in December to rave reviews.
She launched the album by touring the UK with her band for a second time to packed rooms at WinterStorm in Scotland, Planet Rockstock in Wales and a number of club dates in England.
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Kentucky rock 'n' rollers Otis have released a brand new single in the shape of a swampy and groove rocking rendition of the Betty Harris soul classic 'There’s A Break In The Road.'
The band’s cover of the song has an interesting back story, as Otis front man & guitarist Boone Froggett explains:
"A few years back I bought a New Orleans soul compilation LP at Habersham Records, a cool spot in Macon, Georgia specialising in used blues, soul, and gospel records. I threw it in my collection and didn't think too much more about it but time passed and I recalled the album – I dropped the needle and heard Betty Harris and There’s A Break In The Road for the first time.
The way she sang it, the tight but loose swing of the band and the fuzzy guitar feedback all resonated with me very profoundly. I heard so much of myself and the band in something that was recorded over fifty years ago that I knew, at some point, we could breathe new life into it."
The band’s cover of the song has an interesting back story, as Otis front man & guitarist Boone Froggett explains:
"A few years back I bought a New Orleans soul compilation LP at Habersham Records, a cool spot in Macon, Georgia specialising in used blues, soul, and gospel records. I threw it in my collection and didn't think too much more about it but time passed and I recalled the album – I dropped the needle and heard Betty Harris and There’s A Break In The Road for the first time.
The way she sang it, the tight but loose swing of the band and the fuzzy guitar feedback all resonated with me very profoundly. I heard so much of myself and the band in something that was recorded over fifty years ago that I knew, at some point, we could breathe new life into it."
OTIS – Boone Froggett, John Seeley (bass), Alex Wells (guitar), Dale Myers (drums) – are a tight-knit outfit that stay connected to their homegrown roots, with an appreciation for country-rock, bluegrass and folk music.
Recorded in a live, full band take at The Rock House in Franklin, Tennessee, the new single features electric piano and mixing by Grammy Award winning musician Kevin McKendree (Brian Setzer, George Thorogood)
Download/ stream the single here: https://otis.hearnow.com/
Look out for new original music later this year from Otis.
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Recorded in a live, full band take at The Rock House in Franklin, Tennessee, the new single features electric piano and mixing by Grammy Award winning musician Kevin McKendree (Brian Setzer, George Thorogood)
Download/ stream the single here: https://otis.hearnow.com/
Look out for new original music later this year from Otis.
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Blues rock band The Cold Stares have released a new single entitled 'Horse To Water.'
The single is the first taste of an exciting slate of new, southern slanted material expected later this year, as guitarist/ vocalist Chris Tapp explains:
"After touring the world the last few years, we kept getting the tag 'southern' attached to our music in interviews and press. Being 'southern' was never something we intentionally did or tried to interject, but since being labelled as such, I decided to write a series of songs that exemplified what that term meant to me.
Horse To Water is a tip of the hat to southern leaning blues rock bands like Bad Company and Skynyrd, in the voice of who and where we are today as The Cold Stares."
The single is the first taste of an exciting slate of new, southern slanted material expected later this year, as guitarist/ vocalist Chris Tapp explains:
"After touring the world the last few years, we kept getting the tag 'southern' attached to our music in interviews and press. Being 'southern' was never something we intentionally did or tried to interject, but since being labelled as such, I decided to write a series of songs that exemplified what that term meant to me.
Horse To Water is a tip of the hat to southern leaning blues rock bands like Bad Company and Skynyrd, in the voice of who and where we are today as The Cold Stares."
The release of 'Horse To Water' follows on from 2022’s studio album Voices, an exploration of the band's evolving rock blues sound and lineup as they expanded from the original duo of Chris Tapp and drummer Brian Mullins to include bassist Bryce Klueh.
Forming in 2009 and releasing their debut album Cold Wet Night And a Howling Wind in 2012, the band have gone on to release a series of acclaimed albums and a clutch of EPs that feature a heady and contemporary take on the rock blues genre.
Listen to 'Horse To Water' on all platforms here: https://lnk.to/TheColdStares
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Forming in 2009 and releasing their debut album Cold Wet Night And a Howling Wind in 2012, the band have gone on to release a series of acclaimed albums and a clutch of EPs that feature a heady and contemporary take on the rock blues genre.
Listen to 'Horse To Water' on all platforms here: https://lnk.to/TheColdStares
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The Answer have released of a brand new, stomp-groove single entitled 'Put Your Money On Me.'
The song precedes and dovetails with an upcoming set of European dates through April & May and a special, one-off London show at Dingwalls.
Of the new single, a standalone track not included on the band’s last album Sundowners, frontman Cormac Neeson says: "This song is a dirty, groovy, feel-good slice of rock n’ soul straight from heart of The Answer. Can’t wait to play this one on the road across Europe this spring!"
The song precedes and dovetails with an upcoming set of European dates through April & May and a special, one-off London show at Dingwalls.
Of the new single, a standalone track not included on the band’s last album Sundowners, frontman Cormac Neeson says: "This song is a dirty, groovy, feel-good slice of rock n’ soul straight from heart of The Answer. Can’t wait to play this one on the road across Europe this spring!"
Sundowners was released in 2023 and achieved Top 40 National Album Chart positions in UK, Germany and Switzerland, including #1 in the UK National Rock Album Chart.
The Answer - European and London Tour Dates:
4th April, Kavka, Antwerp, BE
5th April, Turock, Essen, DE
6th April, De Pul, Uden, NL
7th April, Knust, Hamburg, DE
9th April, 2Progi, Poznan, PL
10th April, Storm, Prague, CZ
11th April, Hirsch, Nurnberg, DE
12th April, Roxy, Ulm, DE
13th April, Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, DE
14th April, Betit Bain, Paris, FR
9th May, Razzmatazz 2, Barcelona, ES
10th May, Mon, Madrid, ES
11th May, Stage Live, Bilbao, ES
20th June, Dingwalls, London
w/ support from These Wicked Rivers
(for tickets click here )
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The Answer - European and London Tour Dates:
4th April, Kavka, Antwerp, BE
5th April, Turock, Essen, DE
6th April, De Pul, Uden, NL
7th April, Knust, Hamburg, DE
9th April, 2Progi, Poznan, PL
10th April, Storm, Prague, CZ
11th April, Hirsch, Nurnberg, DE
12th April, Roxy, Ulm, DE
13th April, Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, DE
14th April, Betit Bain, Paris, FR
9th May, Razzmatazz 2, Barcelona, ES
10th May, Mon, Madrid, ES
11th May, Stage Live, Bilbao, ES
20th June, Dingwalls, London
w/ support from These Wicked Rivers
(for tickets click here )
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Billy Morrison, Billy Idol’s rhythm guitar player for the past 15 years, has collaborated with the legendary Ozzy Osbourne and Billy Idol’s lead guitarist Steve Stevens for heavy rock blues number 'Crack Cocaine.'
The single, written by Billy Morrison, Steve Stevens and Ozzy Osbourne, is lifted from Morrison’s new solo album, The Morrison Project, out 19th April via the Label Group’s partnership with TLG|ZOID through Virgin Music Group.
Morrison, Stevens and Osbourne all feature in the accompanying music video, which spotlights Paris Jackson playing the glamorous/romantic interest ("the song may be called Crack Cocaine but it’s about a guy who is totally addicted to his girlfriend, and how certain relationships can feel like an addiction", says Morrison". There are also cameos from visual artist Risk and actor Jeff Hilliard.
The single, written by Billy Morrison, Steve Stevens and Ozzy Osbourne, is lifted from Morrison’s new solo album, The Morrison Project, out 19th April via the Label Group’s partnership with TLG|ZOID through Virgin Music Group.
Morrison, Stevens and Osbourne all feature in the accompanying music video, which spotlights Paris Jackson playing the glamorous/romantic interest ("the song may be called Crack Cocaine but it’s about a guy who is totally addicted to his girlfriend, and how certain relationships can feel like an addiction", says Morrison". There are also cameos from visual artist Risk and actor Jeff Hilliard.
As regards the collaboration that led to 'Crack Cocaine,' Ozzy Osbourne says "I was in the same room as Billy and Steve, and the lyrics just came out of the blue. It was written in about 20 minutes!"
"The music was a direct result of sitting in a room with Steve, both with de-tuned guitars, and writing what we felt was an ultimate Ozzy riff", continues Billy Morrison. "From there we brought Ozzy over and 90% of the lyrics came from him."
'Crack Cocaine' follows on from 'Drowning,' the first single to be taken from The Morrison Project.
Billy Morrison’s third solo album (and first since 2015) also features a number of notable guest appearances/ performances, including Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, DMC, Al Jourgensen, Corey Taylor, Steve Vai, Linda Perry, Tommy Clufetos and John5.
All songs on the album were written by Morrison in collaboration with his guests; the album was produced by Billy Morrison and mixed by Barry Pointer.
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"The music was a direct result of sitting in a room with Steve, both with de-tuned guitars, and writing what we felt was an ultimate Ozzy riff", continues Billy Morrison. "From there we brought Ozzy over and 90% of the lyrics came from him."
'Crack Cocaine' follows on from 'Drowning,' the first single to be taken from The Morrison Project.
Billy Morrison’s third solo album (and first since 2015) also features a number of notable guest appearances/ performances, including Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, DMC, Al Jourgensen, Corey Taylor, Steve Vai, Linda Perry, Tommy Clufetos and John5.
All songs on the album were written by Morrison in collaboration with his guests; the album was produced by Billy Morrison and mixed by Barry Pointer.
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Joe Bonamassa has released a new single, 'The Last Matador Of Bayonne;' the song is lifted from his historic performance with 40 piece orchestra at the iconic Hollywood Bowl in August 2023.
Stream the single via https://ffm.to/nrp2pk3
The entire Hollywood Bowl performance will be released as an album and film entitled Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra on May 17th via J&R Adventures.
It will be available in CD/DVD, CD/Blu-Ray, 2LP Vinyl and Digital.
Pre-order the album here: https://lnk.to/joebonamassa
Stream the single via https://ffm.to/nrp2pk3
The entire Hollywood Bowl performance will be released as an album and film entitled Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra on May 17th via J&R Adventures.
It will be available in CD/DVD, CD/Blu-Ray, 2LP Vinyl and Digital.
Pre-order the album here: https://lnk.to/joebonamassa
The orchestrated version of 'The Last Matador Of Bayonne' (the original version of which can be found on Joe Bonamassa’s 2011 studio album Dust Bowl), was arranged by legendary composer David Campbell; it also features a captivating trumpet solo by Rashawn Ross, longtime Dave Matthews Band member.
The single follows on from the album's lead single, a cover of Bobby "Blue" Bland’s classic 'Twenty-Four Hour Blues,' which Bonamassa originally recorded for his recent Blues Deluxe II album.
Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra elevates deeper cuts and fan-favourite tracks with fully orchestrated arrangements by some of Hollywood's finest – David Campbell, Trevor Rabin, and Jeff Bova.
"I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 in search of opportunity and cheaper rent than New York City. My first gig at The Mint was attended by five of my friends and that's all. We have played The Greek Theatre many times since, but the Bowl has always been a dream. The orchestra and the sheer scale of the event and venue is something I will never forget." - Joe Bonamassa.
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The single follows on from the album's lead single, a cover of Bobby "Blue" Bland’s classic 'Twenty-Four Hour Blues,' which Bonamassa originally recorded for his recent Blues Deluxe II album.
Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra elevates deeper cuts and fan-favourite tracks with fully orchestrated arrangements by some of Hollywood's finest – David Campbell, Trevor Rabin, and Jeff Bova.
"I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 in search of opportunity and cheaper rent than New York City. My first gig at The Mint was attended by five of my friends and that's all. We have played The Greek Theatre many times since, but the Bowl has always been a dream. The orchestra and the sheer scale of the event and venue is something I will never forget." - Joe Bonamassa.
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Acclaimed German progressive rock group Vanden Plas have released a new single entitled 'The Sacrilegious Mind Machine.'
The song is lifted from the band’s forthcoming studio album The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things, which will be released on April 19th on Frontiers Music.
Pre-order the album via: https://orcd.co/vandenplasteeotllt
"The Sacrilegious Mind Machine is about our lost dreams" says the band's singer Andy Kuntz. "We are tempted by a dream demon, who´s trying to sell us a tantalizing vision of life as our own vision. In exchange, we give up our true dreams so the thief of dreams can steal them, who then feeds on our unhappiness and all our broken ideals."
The song is lifted from the band’s forthcoming studio album The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things, which will be released on April 19th on Frontiers Music.
Pre-order the album via: https://orcd.co/vandenplasteeotllt
"The Sacrilegious Mind Machine is about our lost dreams" says the band's singer Andy Kuntz. "We are tempted by a dream demon, who´s trying to sell us a tantalizing vision of life as our own vision. In exchange, we give up our true dreams so the thief of dreams can steal them, who then feeds on our unhappiness and all our broken ideals."
The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things welcomes Alessandro Del Vecchio as the band’s new keyboardist.
Guitarist Stephan Lill, who was primary composer on the band’s previous releases, took sole charge of the music on the new album, while Andy Kuntz contributed lyrics and vocal lines.
"Though Alessandro couldn't partake in the songwriting for this album due to time constraints, his playing has already enriched the songs and sound with various nuances," says Kuntz. "The new dynamic is palpable in this production."
The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things carries on the Vanden Plas legacy of pushing progressive boundaries, melding intricate melodies with thought-provoking lyrics.
It follows in the footsteps of their acclaimed The Ghost Xperiment series, cementing the band's status as a leading force in contemporary progressive rock.
On the album concept, the band say: "The Empyrean Equation Of The Long Lost Things is a chronicle of different stories that deal with the important and essential things in life.
The 'important' things that we can't hold on to, and also the supposedly unimportant little things that we have carelessly forgotten or unhappily lost somewhere along the way."
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Guitarist Stephan Lill, who was primary composer on the band’s previous releases, took sole charge of the music on the new album, while Andy Kuntz contributed lyrics and vocal lines.
"Though Alessandro couldn't partake in the songwriting for this album due to time constraints, his playing has already enriched the songs and sound with various nuances," says Kuntz. "The new dynamic is palpable in this production."
The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things carries on the Vanden Plas legacy of pushing progressive boundaries, melding intricate melodies with thought-provoking lyrics.
It follows in the footsteps of their acclaimed The Ghost Xperiment series, cementing the band's status as a leading force in contemporary progressive rock.
On the album concept, the band say: "The Empyrean Equation Of The Long Lost Things is a chronicle of different stories that deal with the important and essential things in life.
The 'important' things that we can't hold on to, and also the supposedly unimportant little things that we have carelessly forgotten or unhappily lost somewhere along the way."
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Renegade flamenco-punk glamsters the Gypsy Pistoleros have announced their Revolution UK Tour 24!
The tour will be a celebration of their Official UK charting album Duende a Go Go Loco! (#7 in the Official Independent Album Breakers Chart; #36 Official Independent Album Chart; #67 Official Album Downloads Chart; #94 Official Albums Sales Chart).
Buy Duende A Go Go Loco! here: https://webstore.earache.com/gypsypistoleros
The band have also finished recording the follow up to Duende a Go Go Loco!
The forthcoming new album, Church Of The Pistoleros, was recorded at The Old Cider Press Studios, Pershore with collaborator, co-writer and producer on the rise, Dave Draper (The Wildhearts, Ginger, Terrorvision, Ryan Hamilton, The Professionals).
Church Of The Pistoleros promises a new look and concept, plus a major new stage show (think Ghost but punkier and rockier). It will prove they are preposterous, epic, overblown and totally glorious in equal measure!
With music ranging from anthemic rock, Latin swagger and Phil Spector 50s ballads to Glam-punk, near EMO and Goth, the Gypsy Pistoleros are one of those most rare of acts who can honestly claim the tag "unique."
Gypsy Pistoleros Revolution UK Tour 24!
Tickets: http://www.gypsypistoleros.com/gigs.html
Thurs 2nd May Trillians, Newcastle (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 3rd May Bannermans, Edinburgh (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 4th May The Dreadnought Bathgate (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Thursday 9th May The Holroyd Arms, Guildford (with Ransom)
Friday 10th May The Melbourn Rock Club, Cambridgeshire (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 17th May The Patriot, Crumlin (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 18th May The Thunderbolt, Bristol (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 31st May The Palladium Club, Bideford (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 1st June St Austell Band Club (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 12th July The Musician, Leicester (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Saturday 10th August The Electric Banana, Weston Super Mare, with Syteria (plus Adam & the Hellcats)
Sunday 11th August Farmer Phil's Festival
Thursday 15th August Nightrain, Bradford, with Syteria (plus Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 18th October The Victoria Swindon (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Sunday 27th October The Cart & Horses London (with Ransom)
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The tour will be a celebration of their Official UK charting album Duende a Go Go Loco! (#7 in the Official Independent Album Breakers Chart; #36 Official Independent Album Chart; #67 Official Album Downloads Chart; #94 Official Albums Sales Chart).
Buy Duende A Go Go Loco! here: https://webstore.earache.com/gypsypistoleros
The band have also finished recording the follow up to Duende a Go Go Loco!
The forthcoming new album, Church Of The Pistoleros, was recorded at The Old Cider Press Studios, Pershore with collaborator, co-writer and producer on the rise, Dave Draper (The Wildhearts, Ginger, Terrorvision, Ryan Hamilton, The Professionals).
Church Of The Pistoleros promises a new look and concept, plus a major new stage show (think Ghost but punkier and rockier). It will prove they are preposterous, epic, overblown and totally glorious in equal measure!
With music ranging from anthemic rock, Latin swagger and Phil Spector 50s ballads to Glam-punk, near EMO and Goth, the Gypsy Pistoleros are one of those most rare of acts who can honestly claim the tag "unique."
Gypsy Pistoleros Revolution UK Tour 24!
Tickets: http://www.gypsypistoleros.com/gigs.html
Thurs 2nd May Trillians, Newcastle (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 3rd May Bannermans, Edinburgh (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 4th May The Dreadnought Bathgate (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Thursday 9th May The Holroyd Arms, Guildford (with Ransom)
Friday 10th May The Melbourn Rock Club, Cambridgeshire (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 17th May The Patriot, Crumlin (with Blitz, Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 18th May The Thunderbolt, Bristol (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 31st May The Palladium Club, Bideford (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Sat 1st June St Austell Band Club (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 12th July The Musician, Leicester (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Saturday 10th August The Electric Banana, Weston Super Mare, with Syteria (plus Adam & the Hellcats)
Sunday 11th August Farmer Phil's Festival
Thursday 15th August Nightrain, Bradford, with Syteria (plus Adam & the Hellcats)
Friday 18th October The Victoria Swindon (with Adam & the Hellcats)
Sunday 27th October The Cart & Horses London (with Ransom)
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Fresh off the success of latest album Battles (#16 in the Official Independent Album Charts), hard blues rocker Jack J Hutchinson has announced an 18-date UK tour (see tour dates poster further below).
Kicking off on March 23rd at Rockin’ The Blues, the tour will take in headline shows across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, concluding at Whitby Rocks Festival on November 8th.
He will be joined on the run by his band, Phil Wilson (drums) and Charlie Rachael Kay (bass).
Hutchinson is also premiering a stripped back acoustic version of the track 'Constellations.'\
The original Battles version was playlisted by Planet Rock on release last year; it was also named as one of Classic Rock’s Tracks of the Week.
Kicking off on March 23rd at Rockin’ The Blues, the tour will take in headline shows across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, concluding at Whitby Rocks Festival on November 8th.
He will be joined on the run by his band, Phil Wilson (drums) and Charlie Rachael Kay (bass).
Hutchinson is also premiering a stripped back acoustic version of the track 'Constellations.'\
The original Battles version was playlisted by Planet Rock on release last year; it was also named as one of Classic Rock’s Tracks of the Week.
Battles, released in February, received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics, with Jack J Hutchinson saying of the album: "Every track on the new album was crafted with live performance in mind. After nearly a year in the studio, it's time to hit the road and share these songs across the UK and Europe over the next six months. I’m particularly excited about my first headline show in Manchester, which will feel like something of a homecoming!"
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After a four year hiatus, a length of time set in motion by Covid-19 (and the unfortunate but necessary cancellation of what would have been the third festival in 2020), The Arran Rock 'n' Blues Festival is returning to "Scotland In Miniature" in May.
Based this time around in the village of Lochranza on the north coast of the island, the event will run from the 3rd to 5th May Bank Holiday Weekend.
Scottish broadcaster and BBC Radio Scotland presenter John Beattie will be the compere, as well as performing with his own band.
The full line-up, which now includes Scottish rockers Anchor Lane, you can see on the event poster adjacent.
The acts will be performing on the main stage at the Lochranza Hall on the 4th & 5th May, with a pre-festival gig from the Sensational Alex Harvey Experience at the same venue on Friday 3rd May; entry £10 on the door.
On Saturday 4th May the festival begins at 12 noon with bands on the main stage, plus the smaller Arran Single Malt stage running on through Sunday 5th May, from 12-6pm.
Local food and drink, from The Arran Food Journey, will also be available to purchase.
Tickets available from:
https://tickets-scotland.com//events.html?event_method=viewevent&event_id=bd3b2b15-abc7-11ee-a0fe-0a276f4cf2ea
Given this is an island event, the organisers ask that you plan your journey carefully. There are two ferry port options, one directly to Lochranza, while accommodation options can be seen on the festival's website or through Visit Arran.
Please also remember no alcohol or glass can be brought into the festival site.
Arran is aiming to be a plastic free island, therefore reusable souvenir cups will be available to purchase from the bar (the event will also happily accept other festival reusable cups to reduce plastic waste).
Seating: a limited number of seats will be available in the main Lochranza Hall (portable chairs will not be allowed due to space restriction).
Market: an Arran Market will be run on the green next to the hall; you can bring your own seating to relax and sample the food offered.
Merchandising: Festival T-shirts will be available to buy through the website or at the festival.
Band merchandising is also welcome.
Please Note line-up/s may be subject to change – check the official website or Facebook page for updates.
Website: www.arranrockandbluesfest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArranRocknBlues/
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Based this time around in the village of Lochranza on the north coast of the island, the event will run from the 3rd to 5th May Bank Holiday Weekend.
Scottish broadcaster and BBC Radio Scotland presenter John Beattie will be the compere, as well as performing with his own band.
The full line-up, which now includes Scottish rockers Anchor Lane, you can see on the event poster adjacent.
The acts will be performing on the main stage at the Lochranza Hall on the 4th & 5th May, with a pre-festival gig from the Sensational Alex Harvey Experience at the same venue on Friday 3rd May; entry £10 on the door.
On Saturday 4th May the festival begins at 12 noon with bands on the main stage, plus the smaller Arran Single Malt stage running on through Sunday 5th May, from 12-6pm.
Local food and drink, from The Arran Food Journey, will also be available to purchase.
Tickets available from:
https://tickets-scotland.com//events.html?event_method=viewevent&event_id=bd3b2b15-abc7-11ee-a0fe-0a276f4cf2ea
Given this is an island event, the organisers ask that you plan your journey carefully. There are two ferry port options, one directly to Lochranza, while accommodation options can be seen on the festival's website or through Visit Arran.
Please also remember no alcohol or glass can be brought into the festival site.
Arran is aiming to be a plastic free island, therefore reusable souvenir cups will be available to purchase from the bar (the event will also happily accept other festival reusable cups to reduce plastic waste).
Seating: a limited number of seats will be available in the main Lochranza Hall (portable chairs will not be allowed due to space restriction).
Market: an Arran Market will be run on the green next to the hall; you can bring your own seating to relax and sample the food offered.
Merchandising: Festival T-shirts will be available to buy through the website or at the festival.
Band merchandising is also welcome.
Please Note line-up/s may be subject to change – check the official website or Facebook page for updates.
Website: www.arranrockandbluesfest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArranRocknBlues/
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Noted British blues-rock outfit Big Wolf Band have announced the release of their third studio album, Rebel’s Journey.
Joining forces once more with producer Mark Stuart and studio engineer Sheena Sear, the album, which will be released on 19th April, is the band’s biggest and boldest to date; it’s also the second instalment of their Rebel’s trilogy of albums.
Pre-order the album on CD and pre-save digitally from:
https://www.bigwolfband.com/shop
Preceding the album and acting as further tasters following the singles 'Empire and a Prayer' (a rock and roll road song) and more introspective 'Living on Borrowed Time,' comes 'Darker Side Of You.'
Stream the song here: https://ditto.fm/darker-side-of-you
Of the new single, the release of which follows the group's nomination for Band Of The Year at the 2023 UK Blues Awards, vocalist & guitarist Jonathan Earp says "Darker Side Of You' is a moody and simplistically beautiful number about when love falls apart; it features a catchy guitar hook, some soulful backing vocals from Zoe Green and nice piano from Robin Fox. The song tells the story about one person coming to terms with being in a bad relationship, and trying to hold it all together."
Joining forces once more with producer Mark Stuart and studio engineer Sheena Sear, the album, which will be released on 19th April, is the band’s biggest and boldest to date; it’s also the second instalment of their Rebel’s trilogy of albums.
Pre-order the album on CD and pre-save digitally from:
https://www.bigwolfband.com/shop
Preceding the album and acting as further tasters following the singles 'Empire and a Prayer' (a rock and roll road song) and more introspective 'Living on Borrowed Time,' comes 'Darker Side Of You.'
Stream the song here: https://ditto.fm/darker-side-of-you
Of the new single, the release of which follows the group's nomination for Band Of The Year at the 2023 UK Blues Awards, vocalist & guitarist Jonathan Earp says "Darker Side Of You' is a moody and simplistically beautiful number about when love falls apart; it features a catchy guitar hook, some soulful backing vocals from Zoe Green and nice piano from Robin Fox. The song tells the story about one person coming to terms with being in a bad relationship, and trying to hold it all together."
Regarding the album, Jonathan Earp says: "Rebel’s Journey highlights my own personal battle with my mental and physical health. I have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS) which affects everything. I had surgery in mid-2019 during our Be Free tour to repair damage to my right shoulder, dislocations, and nerve pain. Unfortunately, the operation caused more pain and numbness - for nearly two years I struggled to play; some days to even hold a plectrum."
But the album also promotes positivity, as Jonathan continues: "We have had many a joke with my dark writing style, but Justin brings the light and love. Rise Together is one of the songs on the album I am most proud of; it’s all about the power of love, rising together and that anything is possible.
"We also have a track called Standing in the Rain, which is a big old ballad of a song, with lots of moving parts, orchestral parts, stops, starts and even a thunderstorm! Everyone delivered big time on this album, and big shout out to Zoe Green, for adding some amazing backing vocals."
2024 is the band’s tenth year together as a band. From humble beginning as a three-piece to the big sound they deliver now as a re-tooled quintet, Rebel’s Journey is a fitting name for the album and their tenth year together.
As part of the ten year celebrations, Big Wolf Band will undertake their biggest tour to date, with a full UK itinerary plus dates in Germany and the Czech Republic.
Big Wolf Band – Rebel’s Journey. Released 19th April.
Jonathan Earp (vocals, lead guitar); Mick Jeynes (bass); Tim Jones (drums); Justin Johnson (rhythm guitar, backing vocals); Robin Fox (piano, Hammond organ).
With: Zoe Green (backing vocals); Tracey Earp & Sheena Sear (addition vocals on 'Rise Together'); Mark Stuart (shaker, tambourine and "kitchen sink").
Rebel's Journey 2024 UK Tour Dates
Tickets: www.bigwolfband.com/tour-dates
12 April - Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury
14 April – Bromley Blues Club
20 April – Blues at the Barleylands, Billericay
21 April - Hope Tavern, Market Rasen
26 April – Bosworth Blues Festival
11 May – Macclesfield Beer Festival
24 May – Saltburn Blues Club, Redcar
25 May – Booze and Blues Festival, Leicester
7 June – Lamp Tavern, Dudley
13 June – Red Arrow Music Club, Ramsgate
16 June - Blues Weekend at the Toorak Hotel, Torquay
5 July – Alfold Rock and Blues Festival
9 August – Darlington R&B Club
17 August - Old Bush Blues Festival
24 - August – Rory Gallagher Festival, Nantwich
25 August - Congleton Jazz and Blues (venue tbc)
6 September – Nene Valley Festival
15 September – Red Lion, Stevenage
20 September – Joe Joe Jim’s, Birmingham
4 October – Backstage at the Green, Kinross
12 October – Legends Blues Club, Tamworth
1 November – Colne Delta Blues and Americana Club
23 November – Giffard Arms, Wolverhampton
13 December - Emsworth Music Club
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But the album also promotes positivity, as Jonathan continues: "We have had many a joke with my dark writing style, but Justin brings the light and love. Rise Together is one of the songs on the album I am most proud of; it’s all about the power of love, rising together and that anything is possible.
"We also have a track called Standing in the Rain, which is a big old ballad of a song, with lots of moving parts, orchestral parts, stops, starts and even a thunderstorm! Everyone delivered big time on this album, and big shout out to Zoe Green, for adding some amazing backing vocals."
2024 is the band’s tenth year together as a band. From humble beginning as a three-piece to the big sound they deliver now as a re-tooled quintet, Rebel’s Journey is a fitting name for the album and their tenth year together.
As part of the ten year celebrations, Big Wolf Band will undertake their biggest tour to date, with a full UK itinerary plus dates in Germany and the Czech Republic.
Big Wolf Band – Rebel’s Journey. Released 19th April.
Jonathan Earp (vocals, lead guitar); Mick Jeynes (bass); Tim Jones (drums); Justin Johnson (rhythm guitar, backing vocals); Robin Fox (piano, Hammond organ).
With: Zoe Green (backing vocals); Tracey Earp & Sheena Sear (addition vocals on 'Rise Together'); Mark Stuart (shaker, tambourine and "kitchen sink").
Rebel's Journey 2024 UK Tour Dates
Tickets: www.bigwolfband.com/tour-dates
12 April - Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury
14 April – Bromley Blues Club
20 April – Blues at the Barleylands, Billericay
21 April - Hope Tavern, Market Rasen
26 April – Bosworth Blues Festival
11 May – Macclesfield Beer Festival
24 May – Saltburn Blues Club, Redcar
25 May – Booze and Blues Festival, Leicester
7 June – Lamp Tavern, Dudley
13 June – Red Arrow Music Club, Ramsgate
16 June - Blues Weekend at the Toorak Hotel, Torquay
5 July – Alfold Rock and Blues Festival
9 August – Darlington R&B Club
17 August - Old Bush Blues Festival
24 - August – Rory Gallagher Festival, Nantwich
25 August - Congleton Jazz and Blues (venue tbc)
6 September – Nene Valley Festival
15 September – Red Lion, Stevenage
20 September – Joe Joe Jim’s, Birmingham
4 October – Backstage at the Green, Kinross
12 October – Legends Blues Club, Tamworth
1 November – Colne Delta Blues and Americana Club
23 November – Giffard Arms, Wolverhampton
13 December - Emsworth Music Club
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Acclaimed British blues-rock guitarist singer & songwriter Joanne Shaw Taylor will release her latest album Heavy Soul on June 7th through Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records.
Produced by Kevin Shirley and featuring an array of talent such as Anton Fig, Alison Presswood and Rob McNelley, Heavy Soul can be pre-ordered at: http://bit.ly/OrderHeavySoul
The album has been preceded by a number of singles, the latest of which is a soulful rendition of Van Morrison's 'Someone Like You,' which you can play below or stream here: https://ffm.to/zmo8o12
Of the cover, Joanne Shaw Tayor says "Kevin Shirley chose this song for us; it speaks to the universal quest for love and the profound joy in finding someone who truly complements your spirit. With the reinterpretation, I wanted to honour the essence of Van Morrison’s original while infusing it with my own blues inflected style."
Produced by Kevin Shirley and featuring an array of talent such as Anton Fig, Alison Presswood and Rob McNelley, Heavy Soul can be pre-ordered at: http://bit.ly/OrderHeavySoul
The album has been preceded by a number of singles, the latest of which is a soulful rendition of Van Morrison's 'Someone Like You,' which you can play below or stream here: https://ffm.to/zmo8o12
Of the cover, Joanne Shaw Tayor says "Kevin Shirley chose this song for us; it speaks to the universal quest for love and the profound joy in finding someone who truly complements your spirit. With the reinterpretation, I wanted to honour the essence of Van Morrison’s original while infusing it with my own blues inflected style."
Reflecting on the creation of Heavy Soul, Joanne says "For me, it was about connecting the dots from my last album 'Nobody's Fool' back into the blues... a mix of contemporary soul-pop and roots music."
Following her recent and hghly succesful UK Tour, Joanne Shaw Taylor is preparing to embark on a spring tour spanning the East Coast and Southeast of America, starting in Virginia Beach, VA on March 29th.
For more information about the new album and all tour dates, please visit www.joanneshawtaylor.com
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Following her recent and hghly succesful UK Tour, Joanne Shaw Taylor is preparing to embark on a spring tour spanning the East Coast and Southeast of America, starting in Virginia Beach, VA on March 29th.
For more information about the new album and all tour dates, please visit www.joanneshawtaylor.com
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From his groundbreaking beginnings with Cacophony alongside the legendary Jason Becker, his pivotal role in propelling Megadeth to its peak of popularity with his breath-taking range and unorthodox melodic sense, and through a noted and acclaimed solo career, Marty Friedman has solidified his status as a unique guitar icon with an unorthodox but highly emotive melodic sense.
Additionally, over the last two decades, he has established himself as a major presence in Japanese pop culture (Friedman moved to Japan in 2003).
The gifted guitarist recently announced the forthcoming release of his latest solo album, Drama, where he takes the atmospheric elements of his acclaimed 1992 release Scenes and elevates the compositions of Drama to modern sounding, exotic, extravagant and unapologetically emotional mini-symphonies.
The results are an album that showcases Marty Friedman’s mesmerizing melodies, cleverly woven arrangements and heart tugging motifs, even more than any of his previous work.
Recorded in Italy, where Friedman has access to a treasure trove of vintage guitars, along with his modern signature models, Drama is an instrumental, guitar-led delight.
Additionally, over the last two decades, he has established himself as a major presence in Japanese pop culture (Friedman moved to Japan in 2003).
The gifted guitarist recently announced the forthcoming release of his latest solo album, Drama, where he takes the atmospheric elements of his acclaimed 1992 release Scenes and elevates the compositions of Drama to modern sounding, exotic, extravagant and unapologetically emotional mini-symphonies.
The results are an album that showcases Marty Friedman’s mesmerizing melodies, cleverly woven arrangements and heart tugging motifs, even more than any of his previous work.
Recorded in Italy, where Friedman has access to a treasure trove of vintage guitars, along with his modern signature models, Drama is an instrumental, guitar-led delight.
In addition to his legendary work with Cacophony and Megadeth, Marty Freidman has released fifteen solo albums, starting in 1988 with Dragon's Kiss.
He has achieved multi-platinum, platinum, and gold album sales in twenty-seven countries, as well as seven Grammy nominations.
Since moving to Japan Marty Friedman has become a household name, beyond the world of music.
Fluent in Japanese, he has appeared on over 900 Japanese TV shows, as well as motion pictures and commercials. He was recently appointed an Ambassador of Japan Heritage by the Japanese government, who commissioned him to compose the 'Japan Heritage Theme Song' (the song, recorded by Friedman and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, is played at official government-related events).
Three books on his life have been released in Japan and a brand new, full autobiography will be released worldwide later this year.
Drama, released May 17th on Frontiers Music. Pre-order: https://orcd.co/martyfriedmandrama
Featuring: Marty Friedman - guitars; Wakazaemon - bass; Gregg Bissonette - drums; Mika Maruki - piano, keys, synths; Hiyori Okuda - cello; Miho Chigyo - violin
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He has achieved multi-platinum, platinum, and gold album sales in twenty-seven countries, as well as seven Grammy nominations.
Since moving to Japan Marty Friedman has become a household name, beyond the world of music.
Fluent in Japanese, he has appeared on over 900 Japanese TV shows, as well as motion pictures and commercials. He was recently appointed an Ambassador of Japan Heritage by the Japanese government, who commissioned him to compose the 'Japan Heritage Theme Song' (the song, recorded by Friedman and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, is played at official government-related events).
Three books on his life have been released in Japan and a brand new, full autobiography will be released worldwide later this year.
Drama, released May 17th on Frontiers Music. Pre-order: https://orcd.co/martyfriedmandrama
Featuring: Marty Friedman - guitars; Wakazaemon - bass; Gregg Bissonette - drums; Mika Maruki - piano, keys, synths; Hiyori Okuda - cello; Miho Chigyo - violin
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Following last year’s Death Wish Blues UK Tour with Jesse Dayton, celebrated rootsy-with-a-twist blues rock guitarist Samantha Fish will return to the UK in October for her 10-date Bulletproof headline tour (dates below).
Planet Rock’s 48-hour ticket pre-sale started on Wednesday 13th March via:
https://planetrock.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
Tickets go on general sale 10am GMT on Friday 15th March via:
https://www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/36006066F7E6740F (Edinburgh show)
https://www.samanthafish.com/tour/
After launching her recording career in 2009, Samantha established herself as a rising star in the contemporary blues world.
The charismatic singer-guitarist-songwriter has earned a reputation as a powerful live performer, while also releasing a series of acclaimed albums that have shown her restless creative spirit consistently pushing her in new, exciting, and often unexpected musical directions.
"I'm never going be a traditional blues artist, because that's not who I am," says Samantha. "But it's all the Blues for me. When Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf came out, what they were doing didn't sound like anything that had been done in Blues before. You've got to keep that kind of fire and spirit. I'm never going to do Muddy Waters better than Muddy Waters, so I try to be who I am, and in doing that, I find my best voice."
Samantha Fish – Bulletproof UK Tour Dates
Birmingham, Town Hall - Friday 4th October
Brighton, Chalk - Saturday 5th October
London, Koko - Sunday 6th October
Norwich, Epic Studios - Monday 7th October
Cardiff, Tramshed - Tuesday 8th October
Bath, Komedia - Wednesday 9th October
Leeds, Project House - Thursday 10th October
Nottingham, Rock City - Friday 11th October
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Saturday 12th October
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Sunday 13th October
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Planet Rock’s 48-hour ticket pre-sale started on Wednesday 13th March via:
https://planetrock.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
Tickets go on general sale 10am GMT on Friday 15th March via:
https://www.alttickets.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.gigantic.com/samantha-fish-tickets
https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/36006066F7E6740F (Edinburgh show)
https://www.samanthafish.com/tour/
After launching her recording career in 2009, Samantha established herself as a rising star in the contemporary blues world.
The charismatic singer-guitarist-songwriter has earned a reputation as a powerful live performer, while also releasing a series of acclaimed albums that have shown her restless creative spirit consistently pushing her in new, exciting, and often unexpected musical directions.
"I'm never going be a traditional blues artist, because that's not who I am," says Samantha. "But it's all the Blues for me. When Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf came out, what they were doing didn't sound like anything that had been done in Blues before. You've got to keep that kind of fire and spirit. I'm never going to do Muddy Waters better than Muddy Waters, so I try to be who I am, and in doing that, I find my best voice."
Samantha Fish – Bulletproof UK Tour Dates
Birmingham, Town Hall - Friday 4th October
Brighton, Chalk - Saturday 5th October
London, Koko - Sunday 6th October
Norwich, Epic Studios - Monday 7th October
Cardiff, Tramshed - Tuesday 8th October
Bath, Komedia - Wednesday 9th October
Leeds, Project House - Thursday 10th October
Nottingham, Rock City - Friday 11th October
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Saturday 12th October
Edinburgh, Queen’s Hall - Sunday 13th October
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Rock-fusion and blues guitar maestro Robin Trower will have his critically lauded masterpiece, Bridge of Sighs, celebrated with two new editions in this, its 50th Anniversary year.
The 2LP Deluxe Edition will feature the album as it’s never been heard before - newly mixed from the original tapes, with an unedited stereo mix cut at half-speed especially for this release, along with Live at The Record Plant, Sausalito, May 1974, available in its entirety for the first time.
A 4-Disc Media Book version will include the original 1974 album remastered, an unedited stereo mix with never-before-heard outtakes and rarities, Live at The Record Plant, Sausalito, May 1974 in its entirety, and a Blu-ray disc featuring all the previous, plus a newly created Dolby ATMOS mix, 5.1, Stereo album Instrumentals and additional outtakes.
At the centre of this package is a 24-page booklet featuring liner notes by David Sinclair, newly conducted interviews with Robin Trower and Matthew Fisher and testimonials by Bryan Ferry, Robert Fripp, Steve Lukather, Clive Bunker, Andy Parker, album cover designer Paul Olsen, all alongside previously unseen photographs.
The 2LP Deluxe Edition will feature the album as it’s never been heard before - newly mixed from the original tapes, with an unedited stereo mix cut at half-speed especially for this release, along with Live at The Record Plant, Sausalito, May 1974, available in its entirety for the first time.
A 4-Disc Media Book version will include the original 1974 album remastered, an unedited stereo mix with never-before-heard outtakes and rarities, Live at The Record Plant, Sausalito, May 1974 in its entirety, and a Blu-ray disc featuring all the previous, plus a newly created Dolby ATMOS mix, 5.1, Stereo album Instrumentals and additional outtakes.
At the centre of this package is a 24-page booklet featuring liner notes by David Sinclair, newly conducted interviews with Robin Trower and Matthew Fisher and testimonials by Bryan Ferry, Robert Fripp, Steve Lukather, Clive Bunker, Andy Parker, album cover designer Paul Olsen, all alongside previously unseen photographs.
Hear Bridge of Sighs like never before on, and for, its 50th Anniversary.
Pre-order, ahead of official release on 17th May, by clicking here.
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Pre-order, ahead of official release on 17th May, by clicking here.
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Multi-UK Blues Award nominated rockers Brave Rival have announced their brand new, 12-track, passion-filled and powerful second album Fight Or Flight is due for release on 16th August.
The band will also be holding a special Album Launch show at Dingwalls in London on 12th September.
(Tickets for the show can be purchased here).
Brave Rival are spearheaded by dual vocalists Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick, giving the band a distinctive, female-duo lead edge; the band also feature instrumental talents of Donna Peters (drums, percussion, acoustic guitar), Ed "the Shred" Clarke (guitars) and Billy "Danger" Dedman (bass).
Formed in 2019, Brave Rival offer a fresh and modern take on classic rock vibes.
It’s a sound, as heard in live performance and acclaimed and impressive debut album Life’s Machine, that has earned the adulation and loyalty of their growing "Bravian" fanbase and praise from many a critic.
(Life’s Machine earned praise far and wide; it brought the group to the attention of Joe Bonamassa, who rated them among his "favourite discoveries").
Taking the winning formula from their live performances and debut album, Brave Rival have now created their second album, Fight Or Flight. Crowdfunded by a Kickstarter campaign, the band hit their target in under 48 hours!
"To me, there’s a different energy this time," muses Lindsey Bonnick. "Lyrically, just about every song can be viewed in different ways. There’s a strong thread around mental health, whether we were writing about things we’d gone through ourselves or experiences picked up from meeting people on the road."
Brave Rival will tour extensively throughout 2024, including Special Guest spots on several dates from the 40th Anniversary tour of British melodic rock legends FM, in April.
They also have multiple nominations in this year’s prestigious UK Blues Awards.
Pre-orders for Fight Or Flight will open in May.
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The band will also be holding a special Album Launch show at Dingwalls in London on 12th September.
(Tickets for the show can be purchased here).
Brave Rival are spearheaded by dual vocalists Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick, giving the band a distinctive, female-duo lead edge; the band also feature instrumental talents of Donna Peters (drums, percussion, acoustic guitar), Ed "the Shred" Clarke (guitars) and Billy "Danger" Dedman (bass).
Formed in 2019, Brave Rival offer a fresh and modern take on classic rock vibes.
It’s a sound, as heard in live performance and acclaimed and impressive debut album Life’s Machine, that has earned the adulation and loyalty of their growing "Bravian" fanbase and praise from many a critic.
(Life’s Machine earned praise far and wide; it brought the group to the attention of Joe Bonamassa, who rated them among his "favourite discoveries").
Taking the winning formula from their live performances and debut album, Brave Rival have now created their second album, Fight Or Flight. Crowdfunded by a Kickstarter campaign, the band hit their target in under 48 hours!
"To me, there’s a different energy this time," muses Lindsey Bonnick. "Lyrically, just about every song can be viewed in different ways. There’s a strong thread around mental health, whether we were writing about things we’d gone through ourselves or experiences picked up from meeting people on the road."
Brave Rival will tour extensively throughout 2024, including Special Guest spots on several dates from the 40th Anniversary tour of British melodic rock legends FM, in April.
They also have multiple nominations in this year’s prestigious UK Blues Awards.
Pre-orders for Fight Or Flight will open in May.
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Canadian roots, rock and soul band Bywater Call have released a brand new single entitled 'Holler.'
The release of the lyrically uninhibted, delta blues-based stomper coincides with news of the band’s October 2024 Headline UK Tour (ticket links and dates further below).
"Lyrically and musically, Holler embodies seedy motel rooms, dirty little secrets and a woman who knows what she wants, unashamedly and without apology," says Bywater Call’s vocally captivating singer, Meghan Parnell. "The song embraces uninhibited passion."
The release of the lyrically uninhibted, delta blues-based stomper coincides with news of the band’s October 2024 Headline UK Tour (ticket links and dates further below).
"Lyrically and musically, Holler embodies seedy motel rooms, dirty little secrets and a woman who knows what she wants, unashamedly and without apology," says Bywater Call’s vocally captivating singer, Meghan Parnell. "The song embraces uninhibited passion."
The new single follows the 2023 releases of singles 'Sweet Maria' and 'For All We Know,' both of which received rave reviews.
The uplifting New Orleans romp of 'Sweet Maria,' the rootsy, redemption-hymn styled 'For All We Know' and 'Holler' will all appear on Bywater Call’s forthcoming third studio album, set to be released worldwide in the summer.
Bywater Call’s music is a rootsy journey through human experience, incorporating influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly And The Family Stone, and New Orleans, Mississippi & Delta blues.
Bywater Call – UK Tour October 2024
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Bywater-Call.htm and https://bywatercall.com/
Manchester, Academy 3 - Wednesday 16 October
Cardiff, Globe - Thursday 17th October
Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Friday 18th October
Leeds, Brudenell - Saturday 19th October
Glasgow, Oran Mor - Sunday 20th October
Newcastle, The Cluny - Tuesday 22nd October
Sheffield, Corporation - Wednesday 23rd October
Norwich, Waterfront Studios - Thursday 24th October
London, Dingwalls - Friday 25th October
Newbury, Arlington Arts - Saturday 26th October
Sittingbourne, Bourne Music Club - Sunday 27th October
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The uplifting New Orleans romp of 'Sweet Maria,' the rootsy, redemption-hymn styled 'For All We Know' and 'Holler' will all appear on Bywater Call’s forthcoming third studio album, set to be released worldwide in the summer.
Bywater Call’s music is a rootsy journey through human experience, incorporating influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly And The Family Stone, and New Orleans, Mississippi & Delta blues.
Bywater Call – UK Tour October 2024
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Bywater-Call.htm and https://bywatercall.com/
Manchester, Academy 3 - Wednesday 16 October
Cardiff, Globe - Thursday 17th October
Leek, Foxlowe Arts - Friday 18th October
Leeds, Brudenell - Saturday 19th October
Glasgow, Oran Mor - Sunday 20th October
Newcastle, The Cluny - Tuesday 22nd October
Sheffield, Corporation - Wednesday 23rd October
Norwich, Waterfront Studios - Thursday 24th October
London, Dingwalls - Friday 25th October
Newbury, Arlington Arts - Saturday 26th October
Sittingbourne, Bourne Music Club - Sunday 27th October
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Rockin’ six-string slide slinger Troy Redfern will embark on his Invocation Headline UK Tour in June.
The 11-date full band tour will showcase tracks from Redfern’s studio album Invocation (released on RED7 Records on 17th May), plus songs from his back catalogue.
Tickets are on sale now from: https://troyredfern.com
The dates are:
Monday 17 June – The Treehouse, Frome
Tuesday 18 June – Retro, Manchester
Wednesday 19 June – Classic Grand, Glasgow
Thursday 20 June, Bannermans, Edinburgh
Friday 21 June, The Live Rooms, Chester
Saturday 22 June – Asylum 2, Birmingham
Sunday 23 June – Boiler Room, Guildford
Monday 24 June – The Junction, Cambridge
Sunday 25 June, The Joiners, Southampton
Monday 26 June – New Cross Inn, London
Tuesday 27 June – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells
The tour announcement follows the release of Troy Redfern’s last single, 'The Strange,' and release of latest (and fourth from the album) single 'The Calling,' which is available on Spotify here.
Of the new single, Redfern says: "I’ve always wanted to write a slow motion, epic kind of a tune and The Calling was born out of that desire. This song is about escaping the technological net we all live in, and to get out into the wilderness to reset and get perspective on what’s important in life."
The 11-date full band tour will showcase tracks from Redfern’s studio album Invocation (released on RED7 Records on 17th May), plus songs from his back catalogue.
Tickets are on sale now from: https://troyredfern.com
The dates are:
Monday 17 June – The Treehouse, Frome
Tuesday 18 June – Retro, Manchester
Wednesday 19 June – Classic Grand, Glasgow
Thursday 20 June, Bannermans, Edinburgh
Friday 21 June, The Live Rooms, Chester
Saturday 22 June – Asylum 2, Birmingham
Sunday 23 June – Boiler Room, Guildford
Monday 24 June – The Junction, Cambridge
Sunday 25 June, The Joiners, Southampton
Monday 26 June – New Cross Inn, London
Tuesday 27 June – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells
The tour announcement follows the release of Troy Redfern’s last single, 'The Strange,' and release of latest (and fourth from the album) single 'The Calling,' which is available on Spotify here.
Of the new single, Redfern says: "I’ve always wanted to write a slow motion, epic kind of a tune and The Calling was born out of that desire. This song is about escaping the technological net we all live in, and to get out into the wilderness to reset and get perspective on what’s important in life."
As the recent single releases help confirm, Invocation promises to be Redfern’s best album to date.
His last two albums The Fire Cosmic (2021) and The Wings of Salvation (2022) set the Redfern rock template, but with Invocation he has created a collection of new songs that carve out his own identity and point to who he really is an artist.
For the album, Troy Redfern headed to the west coast of Wales with his trusty 1929 National Triolian resonator guitar for a week of solitude in a remote Sheppard’s hut to sketch initial song ideas.
"It was important for me to really clear my mind of all distractions so I could focus on what I wanted to write on this album and the direction I wanted to take it in.
"I tried some unorthodox approaches to song writing that included meditation where I would imagine hearing a song in my mind, as complete as possible, including visualising the performance live.
"Next, I would pick up the guitar and capture the idea on my phone. That way I wasn’t led by what I usually do when I pick up the guitar. It was a very freeing, powerful experience, and a discipline I’ll use again to write more songs in the future."
For Invocation Troy worked with The Wings of Salvation production team; Dave Marks returned for production duties, Jo Webb mixed & mastered the album and Lee Russel’s Dulcitone Studios in Kettering were once again the logical choice to record Paul Stewart’s (The Feeling) drum tracks (the converted chapel has the perfect ambience for huge sounding rock drums).
Due to the streamlined process Redfern & Marks employed on the previous album, Invocation was written, recorded, and mixed in just under six weeks.
"It really was great to be able to realise and bring to fruition these songs as quickly as we did; It kept the ideas fresh and stopped them from becoming overworked and tired."
Invocation will be available in limited edition coloured vinyl, black vinyl, plus two different CD artwork designs. Pre-order here: https://troyredfern.com/new-album/
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His last two albums The Fire Cosmic (2021) and The Wings of Salvation (2022) set the Redfern rock template, but with Invocation he has created a collection of new songs that carve out his own identity and point to who he really is an artist.
For the album, Troy Redfern headed to the west coast of Wales with his trusty 1929 National Triolian resonator guitar for a week of solitude in a remote Sheppard’s hut to sketch initial song ideas.
"It was important for me to really clear my mind of all distractions so I could focus on what I wanted to write on this album and the direction I wanted to take it in.
"I tried some unorthodox approaches to song writing that included meditation where I would imagine hearing a song in my mind, as complete as possible, including visualising the performance live.
"Next, I would pick up the guitar and capture the idea on my phone. That way I wasn’t led by what I usually do when I pick up the guitar. It was a very freeing, powerful experience, and a discipline I’ll use again to write more songs in the future."
For Invocation Troy worked with The Wings of Salvation production team; Dave Marks returned for production duties, Jo Webb mixed & mastered the album and Lee Russel’s Dulcitone Studios in Kettering were once again the logical choice to record Paul Stewart’s (The Feeling) drum tracks (the converted chapel has the perfect ambience for huge sounding rock drums).
Due to the streamlined process Redfern & Marks employed on the previous album, Invocation was written, recorded, and mixed in just under six weeks.
"It really was great to be able to realise and bring to fruition these songs as quickly as we did; It kept the ideas fresh and stopped them from becoming overworked and tired."
Invocation will be available in limited edition coloured vinyl, black vinyl, plus two different CD artwork designs. Pre-order here: https://troyredfern.com/new-album/
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Swedish post-punk/ goth icons Then Comes Silence have released their first single in nearly two years.
'Ride Or Die' also acts as opening statement of intent from their stunning new album, Trickery, which is out on 5th April.
Of the single, vocalist, bassist and synth player Alex Svenson states: "Friendship is love. It is important and worth fighting for. It's ride or die."
It’s a theme that permeates throughout much of Trickery, which celebrates friendship, unity, and the feeling of belonging to a tribe, which the band can wholly relate to: "Being a part of the post-punk and goth scene is a great privilege. After being on the road for so many years, we have experienced caring and welcoming audiences, both old and young; some with a similar background and some just for the love of the music, and the culture that comes with the lifestyle. We feel an incredible community together and it is a feeling that is both priceless and a blessing."
'Ride Or Die' also acts as opening statement of intent from their stunning new album, Trickery, which is out on 5th April.
Of the single, vocalist, bassist and synth player Alex Svenson states: "Friendship is love. It is important and worth fighting for. It's ride or die."
It’s a theme that permeates throughout much of Trickery, which celebrates friendship, unity, and the feeling of belonging to a tribe, which the band can wholly relate to: "Being a part of the post-punk and goth scene is a great privilege. After being on the road for so many years, we have experienced caring and welcoming audiences, both old and young; some with a similar background and some just for the love of the music, and the culture that comes with the lifestyle. We feel an incredible community together and it is a feeling that is both priceless and a blessing."
Trickery is also the audio definition of triumph over adversity.
Backtracking to 2022, on the eve of their first-ever US tour and eager to promote their just released Hunger album and 2020 predecessor Machine, TCS were suddenly and unexpectedly reduced to a three-piece. Would their famed darkwave wall-of-sound still work in a trio format? As was heard on subsequent US and European tours and now Trickery, the answer is a resounding yes.
(so much so that the band have resolved to continue with this slimmed-down line-up).
Trickery was recorded in just three days in Kapsylen Studio in Stockholm. With Jonas Fransson (a band member since 2015) laying down energetic punk backbeats and sleaze punk fan Hugo Zombie (who joined in 2018) providing inventive and rhythmic guitar lines, the main focus remains on Alex Svenson, the surviving founder member from the band's 2012 debut album.
His velvety croon and solid bass lines are enhanced on Trickery by retro synth sounds reminiscent of his recent solo futurist wave project, Neonpocalypse.
TCS recently signed to Metropolis Records for the worldwide release of Trickery.
"If later-era The Damned met Ultravox on a very dark night…"
- FabricationsHQ
Then Comes Silence – Trickery – 5th April 2024
Pre-order LP or CD: thttps://thencomessilence.bandcamp.com/
Pre-save Digital: ihttps://ingrv.es/trickery-fqf-x
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Backtracking to 2022, on the eve of their first-ever US tour and eager to promote their just released Hunger album and 2020 predecessor Machine, TCS were suddenly and unexpectedly reduced to a three-piece. Would their famed darkwave wall-of-sound still work in a trio format? As was heard on subsequent US and European tours and now Trickery, the answer is a resounding yes.
(so much so that the band have resolved to continue with this slimmed-down line-up).
Trickery was recorded in just three days in Kapsylen Studio in Stockholm. With Jonas Fransson (a band member since 2015) laying down energetic punk backbeats and sleaze punk fan Hugo Zombie (who joined in 2018) providing inventive and rhythmic guitar lines, the main focus remains on Alex Svenson, the surviving founder member from the band's 2012 debut album.
His velvety croon and solid bass lines are enhanced on Trickery by retro synth sounds reminiscent of his recent solo futurist wave project, Neonpocalypse.
TCS recently signed to Metropolis Records for the worldwide release of Trickery.
"If later-era The Damned met Ultravox on a very dark night…"
- FabricationsHQ
Then Comes Silence – Trickery – 5th April 2024
Pre-order LP or CD: thttps://thencomessilence.bandcamp.com/
Pre-save Digital: ihttps://ingrv.es/trickery-fqf-x
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Musician, singer, songwriter, broadcaster, producer and front man of acclaimed classic meets contemporary rockers the Wayward Sons, Toby Jepson, will return to the stage as an acoustic artist through May and June.
My Life in Words – Live Acoustic tour will see Jepson bring his stories of a "lifer" in the music business to seventeen venues across the UK, plus a retrospective run through the songs that have made him an enduring character of the UK’s rock scene for over 35 years.
Applauded for his lockdown 'Digital Busker' Facebook shows, broadcast live and free from his kitchen throughout the pandemic, Toby Jepson will deliver stories & songs with his usual healthy dose of energy and along with partner in crime Dave Kemp.
Tickets available via https://tobyjepsonofficial.com/tour-dates/
My Life in Words – Live Acoustic tour will see Jepson bring his stories of a "lifer" in the music business to seventeen venues across the UK, plus a retrospective run through the songs that have made him an enduring character of the UK’s rock scene for over 35 years.
Applauded for his lockdown 'Digital Busker' Facebook shows, broadcast live and free from his kitchen throughout the pandemic, Toby Jepson will deliver stories & songs with his usual healthy dose of energy and along with partner in crime Dave Kemp.
Tickets available via https://tobyjepsonofficial.com/tour-dates/
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Soulfully voiced songstress and busy new mother of twins, Jo Harman, after several months experimenting with various arrangements, has finally released new music (her first in close to nine years) in the shape of a beautifully simple but striking piano & vocal version of the Keb' Mo' song 'Has Anybody Seen.'
Stream/ listen on Spotify here.
It's also a reminder that, in the same way Beth Hart's voice equates to the very essence of the blues, Jo Harman just has to sing one note for you to not just hear soul, but feel it.
Stream/ listen on Spotify here.
It's also a reminder that, in the same way Beth Hart's voice equates to the very essence of the blues, Jo Harman just has to sing one note for you to not just hear soul, but feel it.
Some live studio recordings aside (notably 2020’s Signature Soul release), 'Has Anybody Seen' (which has sat in the drawer for the best part of two years) is the first 'studio proper' release from Jo Harman since going to Nashville in 2016 to record her multi-million streaming, Radio 2 playlisted People We Become album (although released in 2017, the album was actually recorded in late 2015/ early 2016).
'Has Anybody Seen,' re-arranged/ re-imagined and produced by Jo Harman with Mark Edwards (who also features on piano) is the potential start of more new music – Harman is in the process of recording one of guitarist-singer-songwriter Mike Mayfield's as yet unreleased songs, 'Enough,' which should come to fruition in the next month or two.
Jo Harman will head to the Caribbean with her seven-piece band next month to open the Curacao Blue Seas Festival; in May, she will play two shows in the main room at Ronnie Scotts.
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'Has Anybody Seen,' re-arranged/ re-imagined and produced by Jo Harman with Mark Edwards (who also features on piano) is the potential start of more new music – Harman is in the process of recording one of guitarist-singer-songwriter Mike Mayfield's as yet unreleased songs, 'Enough,' which should come to fruition in the next month or two.
Jo Harman will head to the Caribbean with her seven-piece band next month to open the Curacao Blue Seas Festival; in May, she will play two shows in the main room at Ronnie Scotts.
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Swedish heavy rockers Eclipse have released a brand new single entitled 'Apocalypse Blues.'
Described by the band as "a fusion of groove amidst chaos," 'Apocalypse Blues' is a hard rocking soundtrack that navigates doomsday with a smirk and a sway.
Scheduled for release on April 5th, the exclusive 7" version of the single promises fans a tangible piece of Eclipse's signature sound, delivering a 360 experience with an exclusive set of Eclipse Solar Glasses.
With 'Apocalypse Blues' leading the 7" charge, alongside the equally compelling 'Oathbreaker,' this limited edition single release will become a collector's item for avid followers of the band.
Pre-order the Exclusive 7" at: https://www.eclipsemerch.com/
"While our inaugural 7" single might not be the most practical during the apocalypse, at least you can safely witness the ‘Eclipse’ in April with the bundled glasses, sparing your eyes from harm. That's a win in our book!"
Described by the band as "a fusion of groove amidst chaos," 'Apocalypse Blues' is a hard rocking soundtrack that navigates doomsday with a smirk and a sway.
Scheduled for release on April 5th, the exclusive 7" version of the single promises fans a tangible piece of Eclipse's signature sound, delivering a 360 experience with an exclusive set of Eclipse Solar Glasses.
With 'Apocalypse Blues' leading the 7" charge, alongside the equally compelling 'Oathbreaker,' this limited edition single release will become a collector's item for avid followers of the band.
Pre-order the Exclusive 7" at: https://www.eclipsemerch.com/
"While our inaugural 7" single might not be the most practical during the apocalypse, at least you can safely witness the ‘Eclipse’ in April with the bundled glasses, sparing your eyes from harm. That's a win in our book!"
Produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by the band’s multi-talented Erik Martensson (vocals, guitars) at Mass Destruction Production studio, 'Apocalypse Blues' continues the Eclipse trend of huge rock anthems.
The band's lineup is completed by Magnus Henriksson (guitar), Philip Crusner (drums), and Victor Crusner (bass).
Eclipse have long since established themselves as one of Sweden's premier rock acts.
Their electrifying live performances have graced stages across the globe, from the USA, Japan and Australia to throughout Europe, including prestigious festivals such as Wacken Open Air, Graspop and Sweden Rock.
The band also boast an impressive online presence, with well over 100 million streams and approximately half a million monthly listeners across major music platforms.
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The band's lineup is completed by Magnus Henriksson (guitar), Philip Crusner (drums), and Victor Crusner (bass).
Eclipse have long since established themselves as one of Sweden's premier rock acts.
Their electrifying live performances have graced stages across the globe, from the USA, Japan and Australia to throughout Europe, including prestigious festivals such as Wacken Open Air, Graspop and Sweden Rock.
The band also boast an impressive online presence, with well over 100 million streams and approximately half a million monthly listeners across major music platforms.
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The soul, blues and seriously funkadelic Matt Pearce & The Mutiny have unveiled a new video ahead of the anticipated Spring UK tour alongside Sari Schorr, promoted by Planet Rock and The Gig Cartel (see tour poster further below).
The brand-new lyric video helps showcase the shuffling rhythm, irresistible groove and old-school boogie of 'From Here To The Moon,' one of Matt Pearce’s personal favourites from the band’s highly acclaimed sophomore album, The Soul Food Store.
Of the highly infectious number, Matt Pearce says "We don't think there's nearly enough boogieing happening these days, so our mission is to bring it into the 21st Century! And continuing with our Moon theme is our cosmic new video, so is everybody ready to boldly go where the music takes us?"
The brand-new lyric video helps showcase the shuffling rhythm, irresistible groove and old-school boogie of 'From Here To The Moon,' one of Matt Pearce’s personal favourites from the band’s highly acclaimed sophomore album, The Soul Food Store.
Of the highly infectious number, Matt Pearce says "We don't think there's nearly enough boogieing happening these days, so our mission is to bring it into the 21st Century! And continuing with our Moon theme is our cosmic new video, so is everybody ready to boldly go where the music takes us?"
Of the tour, the enthusiastic and enthused front man continues:
"Sharing the stage with acclaimed blues sensation Sari Schorr is not only an honour but also an opportunity to collaborate musically each night, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans. Touring with Sari and her amazing band is an inspiration to me and the Mutineers, and an invitation for us to bring our A-Game every night! We predict stratospheric levels of groove... plus it's being promoted by our fave rock radio station!"
The Soul Food Store album brims with funky musical goodness: the kind of sound that Matt Pearce adores and set out to create when he first formed this project.
The album reached #1 in the Amazon Blues Chart and received high praise from press.
"Imagine Joe Cocker, Santana, Prince, Stevie Wonder and The Beatles having an impromptu late-night jam."
- Great Music Stories.
"This is an album of the year: joyous, blaring, dancing around music to salve the soul." - Powerplay
"As musically satisfying and fulfilling as the more spiritual meaning of Soul Food represents - I’m immediately going back for seconds." - FabricationsHQ
"Sharing the stage with acclaimed blues sensation Sari Schorr is not only an honour but also an opportunity to collaborate musically each night, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans. Touring with Sari and her amazing band is an inspiration to me and the Mutineers, and an invitation for us to bring our A-Game every night! We predict stratospheric levels of groove... plus it's being promoted by our fave rock radio station!"
The Soul Food Store album brims with funky musical goodness: the kind of sound that Matt Pearce adores and set out to create when he first formed this project.
The album reached #1 in the Amazon Blues Chart and received high praise from press.
"Imagine Joe Cocker, Santana, Prince, Stevie Wonder and The Beatles having an impromptu late-night jam."
- Great Music Stories.
"This is an album of the year: joyous, blaring, dancing around music to salve the soul." - Powerplay
"As musically satisfying and fulfilling as the more spiritual meaning of Soul Food represents - I’m immediately going back for seconds." - FabricationsHQ
Tickets:
https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Sari-Schorr-and-Matt-Pearce.htm
https://www.planetrocktickets.co.uk/event/matt-pearce-the-mutiny/
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https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Sari-Schorr-and-Matt-Pearce.htm
https://www.planetrocktickets.co.uk/event/matt-pearce-the-mutiny/
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US southern rock 'n' rollers Preacher Stone will release their highly awaited and emotive new album V on 29th March.
"It’s been eight years since we released our last album and so much has gone on for us and the world since then!" frontman Ronnie Riddle explains passionately. "We’ve had loves and losses, a global pandemic, but played a heap of shows and tours despite that, so we’ve ended up with a lot to say! It’s a reflection of our times, good and bad, and it grew into this epic collection of music that we’re sure all can relate to from any walk of life."
The album includes the previously released singles 'Damage Is Done' and the heartfelt ‘Rise Up,’ of which Riddle says: "Musically the song grew into this epic piece that lyrically, like a lot of the album, we’re sure all can relate to, and that the listener can be inspired by, to be a good person during any trying times."
"It’s been eight years since we released our last album and so much has gone on for us and the world since then!" frontman Ronnie Riddle explains passionately. "We’ve had loves and losses, a global pandemic, but played a heap of shows and tours despite that, so we’ve ended up with a lot to say! It’s a reflection of our times, good and bad, and it grew into this epic collection of music that we’re sure all can relate to from any walk of life."
The album includes the previously released singles 'Damage Is Done' and the heartfelt ‘Rise Up,’ of which Riddle says: "Musically the song grew into this epic piece that lyrically, like a lot of the album, we’re sure all can relate to, and that the listener can be inspired by, to be a good person during any trying times."
Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Preacher Stone deliver guitar-driven, Hammonf backed classic/ southern rock songs about the common man with smoky bar frequenting tales, while the swagger of their live performances have earned them a legion of faithful fans known as "The Congregation."
Alongside Ronnie Riddle and co-founding member Marty Hill (lead guitar) are Ben Robinson (guitar), Jim Bolt (bass), Josh Wyatt (drums) and the sorely missed Johnny Webb (B3, piano), who sadly passed away in January.
(The album cover art pays tribute to Webb and honours him, bearing his signature).
Preacher Stone's song 'Not Today' (from their 2009 self-titled debut album) was featured on two seasons of the hit Fox TV series Sons of Anarchy; in 2023 the band played their debut UK shows to rapturous acclaim, while previous tours across the US and Europe have seen the band share the stage with legendary acts such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and Deep Purple.
"We can’t wait to share V with you all when the time comes, as it’s our best work yet!"
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Alongside Ronnie Riddle and co-founding member Marty Hill (lead guitar) are Ben Robinson (guitar), Jim Bolt (bass), Josh Wyatt (drums) and the sorely missed Johnny Webb (B3, piano), who sadly passed away in January.
(The album cover art pays tribute to Webb and honours him, bearing his signature).
Preacher Stone's song 'Not Today' (from their 2009 self-titled debut album) was featured on two seasons of the hit Fox TV series Sons of Anarchy; in 2023 the band played their debut UK shows to rapturous acclaim, while previous tours across the US and Europe have seen the band share the stage with legendary acts such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and Deep Purple.
"We can’t wait to share V with you all when the time comes, as it’s our best work yet!"
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Attention grabbing Welsh rockers The Now will release their dynamic debut album Too Hot To Handle via Trew Music on March 1st.
The album, recorded at Real World Studios and produced by Grammy Award winning Oli Jacobs, (Peter Gabriel, The 1975), will be available on CD, Vinyl, and all Digital platforms.
It can pre-ordered/ pre-saved (along with other merch) here: https://www.thenowuk.com/shop
The atmospheric and hard hitting title track, which opens the album, tells a story, as frontman Shane Callaghan confirms:
"We’ve been inspired by some of the brave stories told by people who have suffered from mental health; we all read remarkable stories during men’s mental health week and continue to read about the stresses people can come under. We thought there’d be nothing better than writing a song about it, and pulling in a collection of our experiences and stories in life, so far, across our debut."
The album also includes three previous singles, the alt pop-rock of 'Get Out,' the shifting, contemporary riff and roll of 'Girl You Got Me,' and the pulsating, pedal-down 'Devil Inside Me,' all of which, along with the other seven tracks, highlight the band’s sonic breadth.
The album, recorded at Real World Studios and produced by Grammy Award winning Oli Jacobs, (Peter Gabriel, The 1975), will be available on CD, Vinyl, and all Digital platforms.
It can pre-ordered/ pre-saved (along with other merch) here: https://www.thenowuk.com/shop
The atmospheric and hard hitting title track, which opens the album, tells a story, as frontman Shane Callaghan confirms:
"We’ve been inspired by some of the brave stories told by people who have suffered from mental health; we all read remarkable stories during men’s mental health week and continue to read about the stresses people can come under. We thought there’d be nothing better than writing a song about it, and pulling in a collection of our experiences and stories in life, so far, across our debut."
The album also includes three previous singles, the alt pop-rock of 'Get Out,' the shifting, contemporary riff and roll of 'Girl You Got Me,' and the pulsating, pedal-down 'Devil Inside Me,' all of which, along with the other seven tracks, highlight the band’s sonic breadth.
Hailing from South Wales, the highly contemporary quartet feature Shane Callaghan (lead vocals/guitar), Callum Bromage (guitar/vocals), Jay Evans (bass/vocals) and Will Scott (drums).
Their hooky, alt-influenced and instantly relatable music has been featured on Planet Rock, ITV, Radio 2 Johnnie Walker Show and Sky Sports.
Having supported Reef, Florence Black, and shared the stage with names such as Placebo and Noel Gallagher (in addition to a rapturous reception at The Isle of Wight Festival and a fantastic ovation at Planet Rockstock) The Now head into 2024 with their forthcoming debut album, a headline Album Launch show at O2 Academy 2 in Islington on March 7th (tickets on sale here) and an appearance at the Station 18 Festival in Swansea. More shows, festivals and ventures to Europe, will be announced later.
"We believe Too Hot To Handle showcases our diverse range of writing and sound, we’re not to be pigeonholed one way stylistically. Ultimately you can be who you want to be, make the music you believe in, and shouldn’t care what anyone says about what you choose to do in life as it’s simply too short."
"This is a band musically, lyrically, and wholly, in The Now." - FabricationsHQ
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Their hooky, alt-influenced and instantly relatable music has been featured on Planet Rock, ITV, Radio 2 Johnnie Walker Show and Sky Sports.
Having supported Reef, Florence Black, and shared the stage with names such as Placebo and Noel Gallagher (in addition to a rapturous reception at The Isle of Wight Festival and a fantastic ovation at Planet Rockstock) The Now head into 2024 with their forthcoming debut album, a headline Album Launch show at O2 Academy 2 in Islington on March 7th (tickets on sale here) and an appearance at the Station 18 Festival in Swansea. More shows, festivals and ventures to Europe, will be announced later.
"We believe Too Hot To Handle showcases our diverse range of writing and sound, we’re not to be pigeonholed one way stylistically. Ultimately you can be who you want to be, make the music you believe in, and shouldn’t care what anyone says about what you choose to do in life as it’s simply too short."
"This is a band musically, lyrically, and wholly, in The Now." - FabricationsHQ
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British contemporary rock band Kira Mac will undertake a 12-date Spring UK Tour through April and may (see poster below).
Tickets are available from planetrock.com, thegigcartel.com and kiramac.com.
Kira Mac, one of the UK's hottest rock up and comers, reinvent the classic rock genre with a modern and contemporary twist.
Their music carries the power of old-school rock, but fused with contemporary flair and a generous dose of rock 'n’ roll attitude, heard to fine effect on their attention grabbing 2022 debut album, Chaos Is Calling, which included a handful of impacting singles including 'Mississippi Swinging.'
(Read FabricationsHQ's feature review of the album here).
Fronted by Rhiannon Hill’s powerhouse vocals and Joe Worrall's guitar skills, the band delivers a fresh take on rock 'n roll songwriting, with a distinctive sound.
Support on the tour will come from Midlands rock and roll outfit JAYLER, a hard hitting young rock band that deliver full-on, energetic rock sets.
The band released an EP entitled A Piece In Our Time toward the end of last year; the EP featured six songs including the bombastic and hi-energy 'No Woman.'
Tickets are available from planetrock.com, thegigcartel.com and kiramac.com.
Kira Mac, one of the UK's hottest rock up and comers, reinvent the classic rock genre with a modern and contemporary twist.
Their music carries the power of old-school rock, but fused with contemporary flair and a generous dose of rock 'n’ roll attitude, heard to fine effect on their attention grabbing 2022 debut album, Chaos Is Calling, which included a handful of impacting singles including 'Mississippi Swinging.'
(Read FabricationsHQ's feature review of the album here).
Fronted by Rhiannon Hill’s powerhouse vocals and Joe Worrall's guitar skills, the band delivers a fresh take on rock 'n roll songwriting, with a distinctive sound.
Support on the tour will come from Midlands rock and roll outfit JAYLER, a hard hitting young rock band that deliver full-on, energetic rock sets.
The band released an EP entitled A Piece In Our Time toward the end of last year; the EP featured six songs including the bombastic and hi-energy 'No Woman.'
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Blues rock guitarist, singer and songwriter Philip Sayce has released a new single entitled 'Backstabber.'
The song is the third single to be lifted off his highly anticipated new album, The Wolves Are Coming (Atomic Gemini/ Forty Below Records), which will be released on February 23rd.
Stream 'Backstabber' here: https://fortybelow.ffm.to/philipsayce-backstabber
Pre-order The Wolves Are Coming here:
https://fortybelow.ffm.to/sayce-thewolvesarecoming
Of the musically and lyrically hard-hitting song, Philip Sayce says "This is a song about fake friends and a ruthless music business. I think the lyrics speak loud and clear, and the weight of the track conveys the intensity of my feelings. It is a jungle out there; watch your back. This song also speaks to my life-long journey with OCD – named one of the ten most disabling disorders by the World Health Organization – and this burden that myself, and many others live with every day."
Produced by Philip Sayce at Station House Studio in Los Angeles, 'Backstabber' features Sayce (vocals, guitar, bass, piano) in the company of Michael Leasure (Walter Trout, Edgar Winter) on drums and Fred Mandel (Queen, Supertramp, Elton John) on keys.
The song is the third single to be lifted off his highly anticipated new album, The Wolves Are Coming (Atomic Gemini/ Forty Below Records), which will be released on February 23rd.
Stream 'Backstabber' here: https://fortybelow.ffm.to/philipsayce-backstabber
Pre-order The Wolves Are Coming here:
https://fortybelow.ffm.to/sayce-thewolvesarecoming
Of the musically and lyrically hard-hitting song, Philip Sayce says "This is a song about fake friends and a ruthless music business. I think the lyrics speak loud and clear, and the weight of the track conveys the intensity of my feelings. It is a jungle out there; watch your back. This song also speaks to my life-long journey with OCD – named one of the ten most disabling disorders by the World Health Organization – and this burden that myself, and many others live with every day."
Produced by Philip Sayce at Station House Studio in Los Angeles, 'Backstabber' features Sayce (vocals, guitar, bass, piano) in the company of Michael Leasure (Walter Trout, Edgar Winter) on drums and Fred Mandel (Queen, Supertramp, Elton John) on keys.
Born in Wales and raised in Toronto, Philip Sayce was plucked from the Toronto blues scene by the legendary Jeff Healey, who took the young guitarist under his wing, touring the world and recording as a member of Healey's band.
From 2004 to 2009, Sayce toured internationally and recorded with Melissa Etheridge, including performances at The Oscars and The Grammys. During this period, Sayce recorded his first solo album, Peace Machine. Buoyed by guitar fans response to the album, Sayce returned his attention to a full-time solo career, subsequent garnering praise in the blues, rock, and guitar worlds.
He has since released six studio albums and the Live EP, Scorched Earth: Volume 1.
"Philip Sayce stands on the edge of hard rock and psychedelia, slinging guitar riffs past your ears at warp speed." – Guitar World
"Sayce uses his classic Strat sound and overdriven amps to unwind a powerful tale. His guitar riffs are fastballs" – Rock And Blues Muse
"Massive riffs and pounding drums, with Sayce's vocals getting the full treatment." – Music News.
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From 2004 to 2009, Sayce toured internationally and recorded with Melissa Etheridge, including performances at The Oscars and The Grammys. During this period, Sayce recorded his first solo album, Peace Machine. Buoyed by guitar fans response to the album, Sayce returned his attention to a full-time solo career, subsequent garnering praise in the blues, rock, and guitar worlds.
He has since released six studio albums and the Live EP, Scorched Earth: Volume 1.
"Philip Sayce stands on the edge of hard rock and psychedelia, slinging guitar riffs past your ears at warp speed." – Guitar World
"Sayce uses his classic Strat sound and overdriven amps to unwind a powerful tale. His guitar riffs are fastballs" – Rock And Blues Muse
"Massive riffs and pounding drums, with Sayce's vocals getting the full treatment." – Music News.
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Alternative Americana artist Amigo the Devil (aka Danny Kiranos) has released a brand new single entitled 'The Mechanic.' You can stream the single at: https://atd.ffm.to/mechanic
As with previous single 'Cannibal Within' the new song, a beautifully delicate reflection on a broken relationship, is lifted from his forthcoming and third studio album, Yours Until The War Is Over, which will be released on 23rd February.
"The song is in line with realising your own flaws, but coming from the opposite side to my previous single 'Cannibal Within,' where you are the one causing a lot of the imbalance." explains Kiranos.
The accompanying video reveals intimate insights behind the making of the new album.
Created in a basement bar-turned-studio in Tennessee, the video shows the bare-bones approach of ATD’s recording process, from scribbling lyrics on the pages of a journal to experimenting with oddball percussion.
As with previous single 'Cannibal Within' the new song, a beautifully delicate reflection on a broken relationship, is lifted from his forthcoming and third studio album, Yours Until The War Is Over, which will be released on 23rd February.
"The song is in line with realising your own flaws, but coming from the opposite side to my previous single 'Cannibal Within,' where you are the one causing a lot of the imbalance." explains Kiranos.
The accompanying video reveals intimate insights behind the making of the new album.
Created in a basement bar-turned-studio in Tennessee, the video shows the bare-bones approach of ATD’s recording process, from scribbling lyrics on the pages of a journal to experimenting with oddball percussion.
Yours Until The War Is Over is a collection of 13 songs weaving together themes of relatable self-destruction and trauma bonding with arresting authenticity (these are songs of fascinating insight, that also happen to crack jokes at the most unexpected moments – a Danny Kiranos trait).
Littered with obscure literary references (Kiranos is an avid reader) the album also serves as his most singular work to date.
The album title is a reference to the love affair between Ernest Hemingway and his nurse Agnes von Kurowsky in the closing months of World War I, a (trauma) bond that developed after the future novelist was severely wounded in Italy just after becoming a Red Cross volunteer at the age of 18.
She would sometimes write "Yours until the war is over" at the end of her letters to him, a sign-off that proved prophetic, her ultimate rejection devastating and scarring him.
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Littered with obscure literary references (Kiranos is an avid reader) the album also serves as his most singular work to date.
The album title is a reference to the love affair between Ernest Hemingway and his nurse Agnes von Kurowsky in the closing months of World War I, a (trauma) bond that developed after the future novelist was severely wounded in Italy just after becoming a Red Cross volunteer at the age of 18.
She would sometimes write "Yours until the war is over" at the end of her letters to him, a sign-off that proved prophetic, her ultimate rejection devastating and scarring him.
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On the back of last year's impacting, alt-rock-blues Resurrection EP and recent new single 'Howling at the Moon,' Nu-Blues singer-songwriter-guitarist Ben Hemming has followed up with another new song, 'Sunrise.'
The brooding, dark Americana meets contemporary rock sound of 'Sunrise' lyrically reflects on the emotions of hurt and suffering, but carries positivity through the possibility of change, and becoming a better man because of it (and, as the title of the song suggests, a new beginning).
'Sunrise' precedes what will be a brand new album from the London based Hemming. Titled Darkness Before Dawn, the album is set for release later this year.
The brooding, dark Americana meets contemporary rock sound of 'Sunrise' lyrically reflects on the emotions of hurt and suffering, but carries positivity through the possibility of change, and becoming a better man because of it (and, as the title of the song suggests, a new beginning).
'Sunrise' precedes what will be a brand new album from the London based Hemming. Titled Darkness Before Dawn, the album is set for release later this year.
The songs on the 5 track Resurrection EP were, as the title underlines, a musical rebirth for Ben Hemming, with a lyrical slant that looked at a re-evaluation of one’s self in a modern, and seemingly lost world.
Follow-on/ newer songs such as 'Lonesome Road,' 'Dark Waters,' 'Howling at the Moon' and now 'Sunrise,' point to a continuation of that rebirth, through brooding, muscly blues threaded with honest and contemplative lyricism.
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Follow-on/ newer songs such as 'Lonesome Road,' 'Dark Waters,' 'Howling at the Moon' and now 'Sunrise,' point to a continuation of that rebirth, through brooding, muscly blues threaded with honest and contemplative lyricism.
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Hard-grunge rockers Stone Angels recently released a new single entitled 'Hold On.'
You can stream/ download here: https://orcd.co/bvgkx52
Of the punchy, big beat track, lead guitarist James Innes says "It’s probably the song we, as a band, have written the quickest; the pieces felt like they fell together on their own! I came up with the riff in a rehearsal, the guys started playing along, and 20 minutes later we had pretty much the majority of the track sorted.
Lyrically the song is a warning about how actions can have consequences and sometimes it really is better to think before you speak!"
You can stream/ download here: https://orcd.co/bvgkx52
Of the punchy, big beat track, lead guitarist James Innes says "It’s probably the song we, as a band, have written the quickest; the pieces felt like they fell together on their own! I came up with the riff in a rehearsal, the guys started playing along, and 20 minutes later we had pretty much the majority of the track sorted.
Lyrically the song is a warning about how actions can have consequences and sometimes it really is better to think before you speak!"
The Brighton based Stone Angels - Niall Kersey (vocals, guitar), James Innes (lead guitar), Sam Sayers (bass), Loz Ford (drums) - are creating their own storm in venues across the UK.
They also wowed at the inaugural Pride Rock Festival in their hometown, where Brighton and Hove News proclaimed "Twin guitars spitting fire and a rhythm section that strikes like lightning, they deliver a set that quickly stokes the crowd into a warming frenzy."
Having stormed out of the underground with debut album Give in to Temptation, the Stone Angels releassed their second album, Up In Smoke, on March 22nd.
Recording of demos for the follow-up to Give in to Temptation actually started back in 2018, but the ensuing Covid pandemic put their musical lives on hold.
However that was a delayed blessing in disguise; the turn of pandemic events led to the band working with multi-platinum, award-winning producer Mike Krompass (Steven Tyler, Theory Of A Deadman, Smash Mouth), and having more time to make the best album they could.
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They also wowed at the inaugural Pride Rock Festival in their hometown, where Brighton and Hove News proclaimed "Twin guitars spitting fire and a rhythm section that strikes like lightning, they deliver a set that quickly stokes the crowd into a warming frenzy."
Having stormed out of the underground with debut album Give in to Temptation, the Stone Angels releassed their second album, Up In Smoke, on March 22nd.
Recording of demos for the follow-up to Give in to Temptation actually started back in 2018, but the ensuing Covid pandemic put their musical lives on hold.
However that was a delayed blessing in disguise; the turn of pandemic events led to the band working with multi-platinum, award-winning producer Mike Krompass (Steven Tyler, Theory Of A Deadman, Smash Mouth), and having more time to make the best album they could.
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Good to hear that vintage-contemporary rock quartet the Ramblin’ Preachers, who take influences from Southern rooted rock, blues rock, Americana and a more modern rock sound, are heading toward the release of their debut album, entitled Sins & Virtues.
Indeed, there’s been a keenness to hear what an album’s worth of material will sound like form Ross Connor (vocals, rhythm guitar), James Ives (lead guitar), Craig Howe (bass) and Richard Baker (drums) ever since debut single 'Mind Your own Business' was released back at the top of 2020 (and unfortunately straight into the face of the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns).
Last year's brace of the funky and contemporary 'Better Than Me' and tastefully delivered ballad, 'Jester,' are further ear-catching developments, as is latest single 'Jealousy,' which was mixed & mastered by Wayne Proctor (House Of Tone Productions).
Indeed, there’s been a keenness to hear what an album’s worth of material will sound like form Ross Connor (vocals, rhythm guitar), James Ives (lead guitar), Craig Howe (bass) and Richard Baker (drums) ever since debut single 'Mind Your own Business' was released back at the top of 2020 (and unfortunately straight into the face of the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns).
Last year's brace of the funky and contemporary 'Better Than Me' and tastefully delivered ballad, 'Jester,' are further ear-catching developments, as is latest single 'Jealousy,' which was mixed & mastered by Wayne Proctor (House Of Tone Productions).
Website: https://www.ramblinpreachers.com/
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To coincide with the band's fiftieth anniversary, as celebrated last year, is a new, and long overdue, definitive account of American rock band Journey.
Written and meticulously researched by David Hamilton Golland, Livin' Just To Find Emotion: Journey And The Story Of American Rock, which includes a foreword by San Francisco based music critic & author Joel Selvin, is available now.
Since exploding on the scene in the late 70s, Journey has inspired generations of fans with 'Don’t Stop Believin’' and other hits. Celebrating the band’s fiftieth anniversary, David Hamilton Golland unearths the band’s true and complete story, incorporating exclusive interview material and exhaustive research sources.
A professional historian and Journey fan, Golland dives deep into Journey’s complex biography, dispelling rehashed myths while also showing how race in popular music contributed to their breakout success.
As the economy collapsed and as people abandoned the spirit of Woodstock in the late 70s, Journey used the rhythm of Soul and Motown to speak to the darkness in primarily white teenagers’ lives and inspire them to hope for a better future.
Decades later, the band and their signature song remain classics, and a Filipino lead singer has given a new twist to the ongoing story.
Journey fan Dr. David Hamilton Golland Ph.D. is Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of History at Monmouth University.
He holds a PhD from the City University of New York and an MA from the University of Virginia.
His books, Constructing Affirmative Action: The Struggle for Equal Employment Opportunity (2011) and A Terrible Thing to Waste: Arthur Fletcher and the Conundrum of the Black Republican (2019), have garnered positive reviews in the American Historical Review, the Journal of American History, and the Journal of Southern History, among others.
Purchase direct from the Publisher here or at Amazon US or Amazon UK
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Written and meticulously researched by David Hamilton Golland, Livin' Just To Find Emotion: Journey And The Story Of American Rock, which includes a foreword by San Francisco based music critic & author Joel Selvin, is available now.
Since exploding on the scene in the late 70s, Journey has inspired generations of fans with 'Don’t Stop Believin’' and other hits. Celebrating the band’s fiftieth anniversary, David Hamilton Golland unearths the band’s true and complete story, incorporating exclusive interview material and exhaustive research sources.
A professional historian and Journey fan, Golland dives deep into Journey’s complex biography, dispelling rehashed myths while also showing how race in popular music contributed to their breakout success.
As the economy collapsed and as people abandoned the spirit of Woodstock in the late 70s, Journey used the rhythm of Soul and Motown to speak to the darkness in primarily white teenagers’ lives and inspire them to hope for a better future.
Decades later, the band and their signature song remain classics, and a Filipino lead singer has given a new twist to the ongoing story.
Journey fan Dr. David Hamilton Golland Ph.D. is Dean of the Wayne D. McMurray School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of History at Monmouth University.
He holds a PhD from the City University of New York and an MA from the University of Virginia.
His books, Constructing Affirmative Action: The Struggle for Equal Employment Opportunity (2011) and A Terrible Thing to Waste: Arthur Fletcher and the Conundrum of the Black Republican (2019), have garnered positive reviews in the American Historical Review, the Journal of American History, and the Journal of Southern History, among others.
Purchase direct from the Publisher here or at Amazon US or Amazon UK
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Liverpudlian alternative groove rockers Attic Theory are gearing up for their most exciting and eventful chapter yet with a forthcoming album via lead-off single 'Papier-Mâché,' featuring Candlebox's Kevin Martin on guest vocals.
The single, accompanied by an animated music video by Studface Productions and influenced by the classic movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, sets up the April release of the band’s highly anticipated debut album What We Fear The Most.
The single, accompanied by an animated music video by Studface Productions and influenced by the classic movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, sets up the April release of the band’s highly anticipated debut album What We Fear The Most.
Of the meaning behind the single, Attic Theory vocalist Lewis Wright says:
"The lyrics are about hiding your true self underneath a thin layered metaphorical mask because you have been convinced, by someone you used to be close to, that you are not behaving how they believe you should and the only remedy is for you to be strongly medicated and to suppress the feelings they don’t agree with. The message I wanted to convey is about being able to gain the strength to remove the mask and not let the past or anyone else define you.
"The animated music video is set in an old rundown insane asylum. This is the archaic perception of mental health and we wanted the video to symbolise that society has thankfully escaped those outdated ways of thinking and the band are rescued by an unlikely hero; Atticus T. Mouse."
Additionally, collaborating with Kevin Martin of multi-platinum selling rock band Candlebox is a tick off the bucket list for Wright: "This has been a phenomenal opportunity, which we are especially grateful for.
What a huge honour to have our friend Kevin Martin singing on Papier-Mâché. I’ve admired his musicianship for years and I am a massive fan of Candlebox so this is definitely a fanboy moment for me!"
Since their inception just a few years ago, Attic Theory have been turning heads.
They were awarded Best New Band by Planet Rock Radio for The Rocks Awards 2020 and their previous EP The Sign of an Active Mind was voted NWOCR (New Wave Of Classic Rock) EP of the Year.
Seen touring with Tantric, Elvana and Dead Man's Whiskey, Attic Theory has also played a number of UK headline shows, played acclaimed festivals such as Planet Rockstock, Wildfire, SavFest and Firevolt (Formerly Firestorm MCR) and supported Terrorvision, Candlebox, Saving Abel, Tragedy, Black Spiders and Kris Barras.
Attic Theory’s debut album What We Fear The Most, which features the singles 'Papier-Mâché', 'Narrow Lines' and 'Tattooed Heart,' will be released in April.
It’s available to pre-order now, with related merch, at: https://attictheory.store/collections/all
Attic Theory are:
Lewis Wright - Lead Vocals; Peter Donnelly – Guitar; Tim Cunningham - Guitar and backing vocals; Matt Lawler – Guitar; Kenny McArthur – Bass; Norm Walker – Drums
Official Website: https://www.attictheory.co.uk
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"The lyrics are about hiding your true self underneath a thin layered metaphorical mask because you have been convinced, by someone you used to be close to, that you are not behaving how they believe you should and the only remedy is for you to be strongly medicated and to suppress the feelings they don’t agree with. The message I wanted to convey is about being able to gain the strength to remove the mask and not let the past or anyone else define you.
"The animated music video is set in an old rundown insane asylum. This is the archaic perception of mental health and we wanted the video to symbolise that society has thankfully escaped those outdated ways of thinking and the band are rescued by an unlikely hero; Atticus T. Mouse."
Additionally, collaborating with Kevin Martin of multi-platinum selling rock band Candlebox is a tick off the bucket list for Wright: "This has been a phenomenal opportunity, which we are especially grateful for.
What a huge honour to have our friend Kevin Martin singing on Papier-Mâché. I’ve admired his musicianship for years and I am a massive fan of Candlebox so this is definitely a fanboy moment for me!"
Since their inception just a few years ago, Attic Theory have been turning heads.
They were awarded Best New Band by Planet Rock Radio for The Rocks Awards 2020 and their previous EP The Sign of an Active Mind was voted NWOCR (New Wave Of Classic Rock) EP of the Year.
Seen touring with Tantric, Elvana and Dead Man's Whiskey, Attic Theory has also played a number of UK headline shows, played acclaimed festivals such as Planet Rockstock, Wildfire, SavFest and Firevolt (Formerly Firestorm MCR) and supported Terrorvision, Candlebox, Saving Abel, Tragedy, Black Spiders and Kris Barras.
Attic Theory’s debut album What We Fear The Most, which features the singles 'Papier-Mâché', 'Narrow Lines' and 'Tattooed Heart,' will be released in April.
It’s available to pre-order now, with related merch, at: https://attictheory.store/collections/all
Attic Theory are:
Lewis Wright - Lead Vocals; Peter Donnelly – Guitar; Tim Cunningham - Guitar and backing vocals; Matt Lawler – Guitar; Kenny McArthur – Bass; Norm Walker – Drums
Official Website: https://www.attictheory.co.uk
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"A language works best when we have something interesting to say. Many music teachers never find out what their students have to say; we only tell them what they are supposed to say."
Victor Wooten
Victor Wooten