From Frontiers Music srl:
World Trade, featuring Billy Sherwood (YES (official), Original Asia), Guy Allison and Bruce Gowdy (both of Unruly Child Band) along with Mark T. Williams, have a new album, UNIFY coming on August 4th!
We’ve released two tracks from the album thus far! Check them both out:
• “The New Norm” (audio) https://youtu.be/TuVf9NC0Ugw
• “Gone All The Way” (audio) https://youtu.be/tFQmv0vcBkw
Source:
STONE.
Detroit Prog quartet TILES has confirmed several new live appearances in the weeks ahead, and in addition, the band has just issued a short new video endorsement from Mike Portnoy.
Mike Portnoy (The Winery Dogs, Flying Colors, Dream Theater) praises the new TILES double album Pretending 2 Run backstage after The Winery Dogs show in Detroit. Portnoy and his son Max (Next To None) supply guest drums to the album – simultaneously, the first time the two have been recorded together – in addition to other luminaries including Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson), Mike Stern (Miles Davis), Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree) and Kim Mitchell. The record was produced by Terry Brown (Rush, Fates Warning) and is finished with artwork by Hugh Syme (Iron Maiden, Rush, Dream Theater).
See the new mini-video HERE or below:
Following their recent Northeastern US tour with Laser’s Edge label mates District 97, TILES has confirmed several new live performances for the Summer and early Fall months. The new gigs include a hometown show August 13th with Laser’s Edge kin Iris Divine as well as Mindmaze and Mare Crisium, followed by back-to-back shows September 29th and 30th at the Cleveland and Detroit nights of Sonic Voyage Fest alongside Circuline and Stratospheerius. Further updates will follow.
TILES Live:
8/13/2016 Token Lounge – Detroit, MI w/ Mindmaze, Iris Divine, Mare Crisium [info]
9/29/2016 Wilberts – Cleveland, OH @ Sonic Voyage Fest w/ Circuline, Stratospheerius [info]
9/30/2016 Token Lounge – Detroit, MI @ Sonic Voyage Fest w/ Circuline, Stratospheerius [info]
Released in April through the Laser’s Edge Group, Pretending 2 Run is sitting comfortably in the Top 20 of many monthly readers’ polls throughout Europe and is being hailed as one of 2016’s best Prog albums. PROG issued, “the Detroiters really turn up the heat,” calling the band’s delivery, “imaginative, expansive, colorful, diverse and more satisfying than ever.” Classic Rock claims, “whoever invests their time into Pretending 2 Run will have enjoyed every single second.” All Music stated, “Who says the concept album is dead? Brilliant.” iO Pages says, “TILES is still at the top of the progressive rock world. Pretending 2 Run will finish high in many year-end lists.”
Says Eclipsed, “Pretending 2 Run is an enormously complex album that reveals new secrets with each play.” Progression Magazine rated the record 4/5 including, “This album clearly sounds as if it took years to make. ‘Shelter In Place’… ranks as one of the strongest, most memorable tunes in the band’s catalog.”
Sea Of Tranquility’s 4.5/5 review boasts, “In a year when we’ve seen two longtime prog veterans, Dream Theater and TILES, release lengthy concept albums, I have to give TILES the nod as the more successful of the two…” Music Connection’s review includes, “they’ve upped the ante by giving the listener a double disc with an engaging storyline, meticulously arranged string and choral pieces, sweet vocal harmonies and tuneful jam-based rock, fusion and world beat sounds,” and About.com’s 4/5 review said, “Pretending 2 Run gives prog rock fans everything they could want in a big album.”
Headbanger’s Lifestyle praised, “TILES has delivered a real masterpiece extraordinaire,” and Absolute Zero Media notes, “Lush and epic prog metal – very, very impressive!” Musipedia Of Metal hails, “A progressive masterpiece. With so many great prog albums this year already, Pretending 2 Run could possibly be the best.” Polyprisma issued, “TILES has created something technically breathtaking and far beyond the norm,” and Profil Prog crowns the record, “A jewel of originality. Highly recommended!”
Stream the 24 bit version of Pretending 2 Run RIGHT HERE, see the “Shelter In Place” video HERE, and the “Weightless” lyric video HERE or below:
Pretending 2 Run is out now worldwide through Laser’s Edge; physical orders can be placed HERE and digital HERE.
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Source: Earsplit PR
* For more TILES info:
http://www.facebook.com/Tiles.Band
http://www.twitter.com/tilesband
http://www.lasersedgegroup.com
Stone.
In March of 1974, Rush released their self-titled debut through the band’s own indie label, Moon Records in Canada, and quickly sold out of the initial 3500 copies originally pressed. Moon Records would soon become Anthem Records, which launched in 1977, and continues to serve as the band’s only Canadian record company.
To mark the band’s 40-year recording career, Anthem/UMe celebrates with the vinyl reissue of the original Moon Records (pre-Mercury) release of Rush, as part of Universal’s reDISCovered vinyl series. Housed in a sturdy, custom box with a lift-off top, this landmark album is pressed on 200g, audiophile grade vinyl, from the original 1974 analog stereo masters, cut to copper plates using the Direct Metal Mastering (DMM) process at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
Rush also features the original Moon Records jacket art, complete with the original MN-100-A/B Matrix etching, and will include a 16″x22″ reproduction of the first Rush promo poster, three 5″x7″ lithographs of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and John Rutsey, a 12″x12″ Rush Family Tree poster, and a digital download card for a free digital copy of this newly remastered release.
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* Vinyl LP Box Set Released On April 29, 2014.
(Source: UMe)
* For more info on RUSH:
Facebook: RUSH
Website: http://www.rush.com
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US-based Prog Rock/Metal outfit CORSAIR has launched a campaign with Kickstarter.com to help fund the band’s upcoming European tour. In exchange for your support, the band is offering a wide selection of music, merch, personalized messages & photos, music lessons, personal performances and more. The purposed tour itinerary would have the band trekking across the European countryside from February 20 – March 16. Details and a complete rundown of expenses and perks can be found at the link below.
www.kickstarter.com/projects/2059984511/corsair-shreds-european-tour-support
After five years together, two EPs (Alpha Centauri 2010, Ghosts of Proxima Centauri 2011) and a full length (Corsair 2012) CORSAIR was picked up by Shadow Kingdom Records in 2012. By mid-2013, SKR had re-released all of the band’s material and the Berlin-based High Roller Records was slated to press their entire catalogue on vinyl. This garnered the band much attention from reviewers and magazines all over the world, bringing high praise and features in publications such as Decibel Magazine (U.S), Rock Hard Magazine (Germany) and Terrorizer Magazine (U.K.). CORSAIR is currently hard at work prepping for their upcoming European tour and have plans to tour the U.S. and record a new album upon return. For more on CORSAIR, visit the links below.
Born out of the hot embers of Charlottesville, VA’s Black Sabbath annual tribute band, Mass Sabbath, CORSAIR formed in early 2008 with the purpose of writing progressive rock that would transcend space and time. Having endured the intensive training of Mass Sabbath and most recently, Spinal Tap, Corsair has emerged with calloused fingers and a united, unbending will to unleash new-found guitharmony powers onto the world of rock. Think Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden and King Crimson.
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“The Ghosts of Proxima Centauri are plenty haunting, and one gets the sense that Corsair have the means to make the most of their growth in the time to come. Hope to catch them at Beta Centauri or coming to a star system near you.” TheObelisk.net
“At the intersection of Clutch, Thin Lizzy and Hawkwind lies Corsair, with their beautifully vintage guitar tones, emphasis on often-harmonized leads and solos, drifting and yet energetic prog-jam tendencies, and hints of hazy psychedelia.” – Last Rites
“Ghosts of Proxima Centauri is unique work I can’t recommend highly enough – I mean, Slough Feg, Falcon AND ELO?? Get outta here! Great, unique sound, ‘Adventure Rock’ supreme!!” – Hellride Music
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Paul Sebring
Jordan Brunk
Marie Landragin
Aaron Lipscombe
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(Source: CLAWHAMMER PR)
* For more info on CORSAIR:
www.facebook.com/pages/corsair/179747970753
www.reverbnation.com/skykrakken
Stone.
Los Angeles, CA – While on tour with his American power trio – supergroup, The Winery Dogs, Mike Portnoy filmed an epic and personalized invite video to his first ever Progressive Nation at Sea Cruise. Taking you band by band and leading you through the musical adventure that attendees have to look forward to at this one of a kind, floating Progressive Rock festival taking place February 2014.
The video can be seen below:
Mike Portnoy had this to say: “I could not be any prouder or any more excited than I am for Progressive Nation At Sea 2014. It is my ultimate dream lineup ranging from legends like Jon Anderson & Adrian Belew to Prog trailblazers like Spock’s Beard & the Flower Kings to today’s most extreme cutting edge artists like Devin Townsend and Periphery.
I am also excited to be playing with Bigelf, PSMS & Transatlantic…the final encore of which will see Transatlantic & Jon Anderson joining forces for a one-time only set of Yes classics! This is going to be a historic experience and the Prog event of the Millennium! You will not want to miss out on this!”
Progressive Nation at Sea, an infusion of music and technique that will heighten your senses in a way no other vacation ever could! Imagine a couple thousand prog enthusiasts surrounding you on the Norwegian Pearl as we set sail from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Grand Bahama Island February 18-22, 2014. The cruise is powered by leading Progressive Rock label InsideOut Music and features the genres most prolific artists.
This music festival at sea gives you an experience that one on land just can’t match. In addition to 5 days in the beautiful Caribbean, music will be happening from morning till late at night. Some of the best experimental music might be in the wee morning hours in an unscheduled jam by the artists! When you finally call it a night (or a morning) you can head back to your comfortable room and get some rest before getting into the action all over again. Did we mention you’d be walking around the same place as your musical heroes? Oh yeah, that means you might be having dinner and drinks right next to your favorite musician!
Progressive Nation at Sea boasts the musical genius of Transatlantic, Portnoy, Sheehan, MacAlpine, Sherinian, Jon Anderson, Adrian Belew’s Power Trio, Devin Townsend Project, King’s X, Spock’s Beard, The Flower Kings, Pain Of Salvation, Anathema, Riverside, Periphery, Animals as Leaders, The Safety Fire, Tony Harnell & Bumblefoot, Bigelf, Beardfish, The Dear Hunter, Haken, Jolly, Anneke van Giersbergen, Mark Mikel and Next to None.
Check out the FREE PN14 Sampler presented by InsideOut Music & Guitar Center: www.insideoutgcsampler.com and enter for your chance to win an all expense paid trip to PN14 and a signed guitar from all the artists!
For more information please visit:
Website: www.progressivenationatsea.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/progressivenationatsea
InsideOut Music: www.insideoutmusic.com
Sixthman: www.sixthman.net
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(Source: Glass Onyon, PR)
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Atlanta, GA – Music fans and critics alike are buzzing with excitement about the news of Atlanta prog ensemble The SixxiS opening for Mike Portnoy’s new band The Winery Dogs upcoming European tour in September 2013. The SixxiS are touring in support of their recently released self-titled CD, which has been garnering major attention worldwide! After their first successful tour of Europe as direct support for classic rock legends Wishbone Ash, The SixxiS are gearing up for their second tour, in which they will play 15 shows in 8 different countries spanning Western Europe (England, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain and Portugal).
“The SixxiS are amazing musicians whose music has progressive elements with instant melodies. They are proving to be great travel companions and rock hard, as our opener on the dates. They are a great bunch of guys and they are making us appreciate just how lucky we all are to enjoy this life.” – Andy Powell of Wishbone Ash
Says founding member and lead vocalist Vladdy Iskhakov: “The European tour with Wishbone Ash was our first tour overseas. We could not have asked for a better band to be an opener for. They were compete gentlemen, and really helped us through many things we had encountered on the road. We did our best to learn as much as we could from them, because, after all, they have been around for a very long time. I think we formed a great bond and mutual respect for each other, not only as professional musicians, but as people. Their fans were unbelievable! The response we got was amazing!”
What started as a collaboration of different musicians in June 2006 became a powerhouse band consisting of world-class musicians. The SixxiS, initially the brainchild of the lead singer, Vladdy Iskhakov, exhibit a wide range of musical influences ranging from classic, jazz and rock music coated in a powerful, heavy, seductive and emotional shell of sound reminiscent of Rush, Muse, Soundgarden, System of a Down, Kings X and Alice In Chains. Due to the musical prowess of the band members, the trio are able to toy with time signatures and syncopation, to grasp the magnetism of robust dynamics, and to focus on the individual mastery of each respective instrument while continuing to be a cohesive whole. The lyrics demand attention from listeners, as they are messages of a soul crying out for spiritual awakening and awareness. The combination of haunting melodies, soaring vocal harmonies, distorted guitars, and a truly ‘powerhouse’ rhythm section of drums and bass make the SixxiS sound unique and unforgettable!
After quietly finishing their first full-length independent album entitled ‘Believe’, The SixxiS quickly caught the attention of Grammy Award winning producer Malcolm Springer, who produced their new CD at Warner Brothers Studios in Nashville. In June 2012, the band signed with manager Tony Conway (Garth Brooks, Dixie Chicks, George Straight, etc), who secured their first international distribution deal with WBA Records, making available the band’s new release at all major music outlets (iTunes, Walmart, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, etc). After a year of honing their live act, The SixxiS would go on to share the stage with bands like the Adrian Belew Power Trio, Winger and Buck Cherry.
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“The first time I heard the song ‘Believe’ from the SixxiS I was immediately a fan. Strong hooks, great musicianship and a knack for poetic consonance.” – Edgel Groves Jr. / InsideOut Music
The group’s new CD illustrates the overall stripped down sound of the core three-piece group. Says Vladdy, “The music was produced to make us more ‘mainstream’ than the previous album we recorded, which was much more eclectic. Our sound has always been an enigma to those who listen to our music. Some get it immediately…some think they get it…some don’t understand it at all… People generally have a hard time placing our sound…it’s not alternative enough to be alternative…it’s not progressive enough to be pure progressive rock…it’s its own thing. Sure, there are several bands whose influence can be heard in our music, but overall it is independent.” Along with the new studio recordings, the CD and bonus DVD features 3 live tracks taken from the band’s performance in August 2012 at the 12th and Porter (venue) in Nashville.
The SixxiS consist of Vladdy Iakhakov (lead vocals, violin, piano, rhythm guitar), Mark Golden (bass, synth), and Josh “Jbake” Baker (drums, percussion, pads, vocals). The band are supplemented when performing live by multi-instrumentalists Paul Sorah and Cameron Allen. “The unity that music offers us is a testament to its power,” Vladdy explains. “Again, coming from different lifestyles, cultures, races and religious affiliations, music is the one thing that helps unify all these experiences together and present them to our listeners as a unique blend. At our live shows, our fans really do get a first hand glimpse of who we are as individuals, and how we blend as a cohesive unit.”
“Imagine Edgar Allen Poe’s dark romantic stories and verse set to music – this is the ambiance created by The SixxiS.” – RockOm
September 05 – O2 Academy Islington – London, UK
September 06 – Boerderij – Zoetermeer, Netherlands
September 07 – Garage – Saarbrücken, Germany
September 09 – Colos-Saal – Aschaffenburg, Germany
September 10 – Knust Hamburg – Hamburg, Germany
September 11 – Lido – Berlin, Germany
September 13 – Theaterfabrik – Munich, Germany
September 14 – Gloria Theater – Cologne, Germany
September 15 – La Nouveau Casino – Paris, France
September 16 – La Maroquinerie – Paris, France
September 17 – Z7 Konzertfabrik – Pratteln, Switzerland
September 18 – Live Club – Milan, Italy
September 19 – Substage – Karlsruhe, Germany
September 21 – Sala Apolo 2 – Barcelona, Spain
September 22 – Sala Joy Eslava – Madrid, Spain
September 23 – Paradise Garage – Lisbon, Portugal
To purchase The SixxiS CD with bonus DVD:
http://thesixxis.merchmo.com/products/detail/The_Sixxis_CD_6375
For more information: http://www.thesixxis.com/
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(Source: Glass Onyon PR)
Stone.
“PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA 2014” MAKES ITS MAIDEN VOYAGE FEB 18TH THRU 22ND FEATURING TRANSATLANTIC, PORTNOY SHEEHAN MACALPINE SHERINIAN, JON ANDERSON, ADRIAN BELEW’S POWER TRIO, DEVIN TOWNSEND, KING’S X, SPOCK’S BEARD, THE FLOWER KINGS, PAIN OF SALVATION, RIVERSIDE, ANIMALS AS LEADERS, THE SAFETY FIRE, TONY HARNELL & BUMBLEFOOT, BIGELF, BEARDFISH, THE DEAR HUNTER, HAKEN, JOLLY AND NEXT TO NONE
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Los Angeles, CA – Progressive Nation is hitting the high seas in 2014! Join us in this inaugural sailing from February 18th – 22nd 2014 on the luxurious Norwegian Pearl heading from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Freeport, Bahamas. This music festival at sea gives you an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean and all the amenities of a cruise ship; you will enjoy music from morning ‘til night with over 40 shows on multiple stages, along with activities, Q&A’s, panels and workshops from your favorite artists.
PROGRESSIVE NATION founder Mike Portnoy elaborates: “In 2008 & 2009, I created a touring package called ‘Progressive Nation’ and with Dream Theater headlining, we did three full tours (two in North America and one in Europe) that showcased a variety of bands that embraced the spirit and musicality of progressive music.
Well after a 5 year hiatus, I have decided to resurrect Progressive Nation and this time we are taking it to the seas! But rather than a 4 band bill like previous Progressive Nation tours, we have expanded the bill to OVER A DOZEN of today’s greatest progressive bands, musicians and artists! (and there may be one or two more still to be confirmed).
L to R: Mike Portnoy, Billy Sheehan, Derek Sherinian, Tony MacAlpine
Myself and my former DT bandmate Derek Sherinian have teamed up with Sixthman (who have done incredibly successful cruises with Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the annual Kiss Cruise to name a few) as well as our friends at Inside Out Music and look forward to a very successful inaugural launch of PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA Feb 18th thru 22nd 2014. We are so excited to take part in this historic maiden voyage and look forward to sharing this one of a kind event with fans from all around the world!”
Visit www.progressivenationatsea.com to register for the pre-sale today!
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This music festival at sea gives music fans an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean, guest will have the opportunity to see their favorite musical heroes perform numerous sets around the many stages set around Norwegian Pearl. And when guests are not attending a performance, a variety of activities hosted by the artists will fill the day.
Progressive Nation at Sea begins at $700 per person plus taxes and fees. Prices include entertainment, meals, and access to Norwegian Pearl’s outstanding amenities, including outdoor pool, hot tubs, rock climbing wall, and fitness center. Fans can read more and sign up for the Progressive Nation pre-sale at:
www.progressivenationatsea.com
With 15 decks of fun, Norwegian Pearl offers guests access to 13 bars and lounges, 19 dining experiences, one outdoor pool, four hot tubs, and spa treatments to help forget about the world left behind. Onboard concerts aren’t the only things that rock on Norwegian Pearl – passengers looking for more activities can visit the outdoor climbing wall, bowl a few frames at the onboard lanes, or tempt lady luck at The Pearl Club Casino.
Progressive Nation cruisers will also have the opportunity to explore the sandy beaches of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, their very own private island getaway. A host of beachside activities and games, the gigantic “Hippo” water slide, and access to food and beverage service will make the stay on Great Stirrup Cay an unforgettable experience.
Forthcoming announcements are scheduled to follow detailing artist-hosted activities, theme night information, contest additions, and activities! For full details and to sign up for the pre-sale, fans should visit www.progressivenationatsea.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/progressivenationatsea
twitter: twitter.com/prognationatsea
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(Source: Glass Onyon, PR)
Stone.
The multi-talented and legendary Devin Townsend and his Devin Townsend Project has been nominated under the “Anthem” category for the 2nd Progressive Rock Music Awards, showcased by Classic Rock Presents Prog Magazine, presented by Orange Amplification.
This fabulous Rock music event will take place at the Kew Gardens in London, on September 3rd, 2013. Other amazing artists nominated in various categories are: RUSH, Marillion, Spock’s Beard, District 97, Katatonia, Muse and more.
Nomination:
Devin Townsend Project: “True North” From “Epicloud”
As Devin Townsend stated on his Facebook page:
‘What an honor to be nominated for these Prog awards! It’s nice to be considered for this genre for the first time!’ Dev.
Click on the link below where you can register and VOTE for Devin Townsend! Metal be thy name!
Register & Vote Here: ProgRockMag.com
* For more info on Devin Townsend:
Facebook: Devin Townsend
* For more info on Prog Magazine:
Facebook: Classic Rock Presents Prog
* For more info on Orange Amplification:
Facebook: Orange Amplifiers
Stone.
Los Angeles, CA – Prog legends Nektar return with their triumphant 13th album Time Machine on June 18, 2013 on Purple Pyramid Records – the first album of new material in over 4 years – that band leader and founding member Roye Albrighton is calling “The best album Nektar has ever made!” ‘Time Machine’ showcases a new depth of songwriting, melodic complexity and musical exploration that hearkens back to early Nektar releases such as ‘Remember The Future’ and ‘A Tab In The Ocean’.
Nektar, featuring Albrighton, founding drummer Ron Howden, keyboardist Klaus Hentasch and bassist Lux Vibratus, is British, but was formed in Hamburg, Germany in 1970. Their early albums featured a heady, exhilarating mix of progressive, experimental rock sounds that soon caught on worldwide at the height of the international prog-rock boom. Touring the world behind numerous album releases throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s helped to cement the band’s reputation as an influential prog-rock legend.
Having undergone a variety of personnel changes over the past decade or so, the band now boasts its strongest lineup in years and is ready to prove so yet again to its many fans throughout North America. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original release date of the band’s classic album, ‘Remember the Future’, Nektar is looking to perform in its entirety this most heralded release from its vast catalog, a rarity in that the band has not performed the entire album live in years.
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Nektar Time Machine CD is available for pre-order now at Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Time-Machine-Nektar/dp/B00CGUSM16
Nektar / Son’s Of Hippies US Tour Dates:
June 20 – Sully’s – Chantilly, VA
June 21 – Altar Bar – Pittsburgh, PA
June 22 – Sellersville Theatre – Sellersville, PA
June 23 – B.B. King Blues Club & Grill – NYC
June 26 – The Winchester Music Hall – Cleveland, OH
June 26 – The RockPile Bar & Nightclub – Toronto, ON, Canada
June 28 – Shank Hall – Milwaukee, WI
June 29 – Viper Alley – Lincolnshire, IL
June 30 – Famous Dave’s Blues Club – Minneapolis, MN
July 02 – Rogue Pizza Co. – Fayetteville, AR
July 03 – Cheer Up Charlie’s – Austin, TX
July 04 – The Grotto – Fort Worth, TX
For more information visit Nektar’s official website: www.nektarsmusic.com
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(Source: Glass Onyon PR)
Stone.
London, UK – Esoteric Antenna is pleased to announce the release of the eagerly awaited new studio album by Modern Progressive Rock ensemble Sanguine Hum. ‘The Weight of the World’ sees Oxford, UK’s Sanguine Hum expand their musical horizons on all fronts with a seven-track collection of diverse compositions – technically challenging and exciting yet always melodic and direct. Songs such as “From the Ground Up”, “Cognoscenti” and “System for Solution” pursue the Porcupine Tree meets Radiohead approach of their debut record ‘Diving Bell’ with powerful yet intricate riffs propelling the songwriting that continues to make ever more inventive use of surprising twists and turns in the arrangement.
“Best prog rock album so far this century. The kind of record that prog rock bands 40 years from now will try to copy…” – Michael Bjorn, Strange Days (Japan)
Surprises are to be found as well in the instrumentation as the band open up the sound and more explicitly reference a love of electronica and the music of artists such as Boards of Canada and Aphex Twin, best heard in the song “Day of Release” as synthetic percussion and rumbling synths give way to chiming acoustic guitar and a soaring vocal melody. As a counterpoint, the album also features the highly atmospheric “Phosphor”, which sees Sanguine Hum break new creative ground.
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Perhaps even more exciting for a band that perhaps held some of their progressive influences in check on their debut album, is the 15-minute title track that manages the task of combining effective and emotional songwriting with thrilling musical developments that push the band to the limit. ‘The Weight of the World’ breaks new ground for a band at the forefront of truly “progressive” music.
Recorded at Oxford’s Evolution studios, Joff Winks (vocals, guitars, programming), Matt Baber (keyboards, percussion, programming), Brad Waissman (bass) and Andrew Booker (drums, percussion) have pushed the creative boundaries of Sanguine Hum to produce one of THE truly progressive and landmark albums of 2013.
In support of the release of ‘The Weight of the World’, Sanguine Hum will be performing at The Borderline in London on Friday June 7th with TIN SPIRITS and MATT STEVENS. The band will also be playing at Band on the Wall in Manchester on June 21st – same line-up as at the Borderline.
SANGUINE HUM – ‘The Weight of the World’ CD can be purchased at http://www.cherryred.co.uk/esoteric-exd.asp?id=4017
SANGUINE HUM – ‘The Weight of the World’ Limited Digipack 2 disc deluxe edition with Bonus DVD (NTSC Region Free): The Making of ‘The Weight of the World’ home movie.
Esoteric Antenna is a Cherry Red Records label
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(Source: Glass Onyon PR)
Stone.
London, UK – One of the summer’s most highly anticipated tours, “Legends of U.K. Classic Rock”, will feature progressive rock legends Nektar, beginning in June 2013. After a bit of an absence from U.S. Stages, Nektar is sure to be a treat for concert-goers who will be fortunate enough to catch one of the shows!
Nektar founding member Roye Albrighton (guitars/lead vocals) says, “We can promise you high quality performances wherever we play. I know I speak on behalf of the band when I say we are all looking forward to it.”
Nektar, featuring Albrighton, founding drummer Ron Howden, keyboardist Klaus Hentasch and bassist Lux Vibratus, is British, but was formed in Hamburg, Germany in 1970. Their early albums featured a heady, exhilarating mix of progressive, experimental rock sounds that soon caught on worldwide at the height of the international prog-rock boom. Touring the world behind numerous album releases throughout the ‘70s & ‘80s helped to cement the band’s reputation as an influential prog-rock legend.
Having undergone a variety of personnel changes over the past decade or so, the band now boasts its strongest lineup in years and is ready to prove so yet again to its many fans throughout North America. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original release date of the band’s classic album, Remember the Future, Nektar is looking to perform in its entirety this most heralded release from its vast catalog, a rarity in that the band has not performed the entire album live in years.
Nektar’s new album, Time Machine, featuring the band’s first album of new original material in several years, will be released on Cleopatra Records on June 18.
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June 20 – Chantilly, WV – Sully’s
June 21 – Pittsburgh, PA – Altar Bar
June 22 – Sellersville, PA – Sellersville Theatre
June 23 – New York City – B.B. King’s
June 26 – Cleveland, OH – The Winchester Music Hall
June 28 – Milwaukee, WI – Shank Hall
June 29 – Lincolnshire, IL – Viper Alley
June 30 – Minneapolis, MN – Famous Dave’s Blues Club
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Nektar facebook page:
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(Source: Glass Onyon PR)
* For more info on NEKTAR, click on the link below!
http://www.cleopatrarecords.com
Stone.
Los Angeles, CA – Prog legends Spock’s Beard, in support of their newly released and critically acclaimed album, ‘Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’, are filming a video for the track Submerged. The three-day shoot is based in Los Angeles, and inside sources say it is a full-on music spectacle! Released on April 2nd, ‘Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’, marks the return of Spock’s Beard to the InsideOut Music label, and the two-disc set has been garnering rave reviews from fans and critics alike worldwide.
Founding band member Alan Morse comments about the video: “’Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’ is a new and exciting direction for us, and when we read the director’s treatment for the video, we immediately knew we had found the perfect person to help us bring our musical vision to the screen. It is equal parts performance and concept, and there will be as many twists and turns in the video as there are in our music. You’ll never hear ‘Submerged’ the same way again.”
In their 20 years together, Spock’s Beard have built a reputation for invention, musicality and sheer restive energy. Yet perhaps nothing they have done before can properly prepare you for their 11th studio album. ‘Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’ is an album that will constantly surprise. Featuring the recording debut of long-time tour drummer Jimmy Keegan (Santana), and vocalist/guitarist Ted Leonard (Enchant, Thought Chamber), it also sees the return of a familiar name to the song-writing credits – Neal Morse, who has co-written two tracks, his first since leaving the band more than a decade ago.
Gary Brown of Classic Rock Radio Dot EU raves about Spock’s Beard’s ‘Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’, “Perfect album from start to finish…one of the best hard rock/mainstream prog albums I’ve heard in a long time!” Ytsejam touts, “In the end, it is the Spock’s Beard album we all have been waiting for, as Morse, Meros, Okumoto, Leonard and Keegan have produced another excellent offering of musical mayhem. A true testament to what progressive rock is in the 21st Century and beyond.”
Co-produced by Alan Morse, Rich Mouser and John Boegehold, ‘Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep’ is described by Meros as, “quirky, edgy, and reminding us a little bit of older times in the band, but also taking us further forward.” In regards to the song the band is filming the video to, “Submerged”, Dave explains, “Ted had originally written and recorded this for his solo album ‘Way Home’ (released in 2007), and it’s a real stadium rocker. We’ve adapted it to our own sound but stayed faithful to Ted’s original arrangement. I wouldn’t say it’s strictly Prog Rock, but fits what we do and is a great song.”
Alan Morse – guitar, vocals
Dave Meros – bass guitar, vocals, keyboards
Ryo Okumoto – keyboards, vocals
Jimmy Keegan – drums, vocals
Ted Leonard – vocals, guitar
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In closing Dave has this to impart about ‘Brief Nocturnes & Dreamless Sleep’, “I am proud of what we’ve done. I believe this is the way Spock’s Beard should sound in 2013.”
Spock’s Bears ‘Brief Nocturnes & Dreamless Sleep’ (2CD)(INO0647-2):
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/brief-nocturnes-dreamless/id628629207
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For more information on SPOCK’S BEARD, visit:
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(Source: Glass Onyon PR)
Stone.
As reported on Roadrunner Records by Phil Freeman, back on December 3rd, 2012:
Grammy-nominated band Dream Theater, one of rock’s most musically fearless and adventurous bands, has re-signed with Roadrunner Records. The group first signed with Roadrunner in January 2007 and has so far released three critically acclaimed albums with the label. The label first issued Dream Theater’s ninth studio album, Systematic Chaos,in 2007 and went on to release Black Clouds & Silver Linings in 2009, as well as their most recent album, A Dramatic Turn of Events in September 2011. The band will soon begin recording a new album as part of the new agreement with Roadrunner Records.
In 2012, the band received their first-ever Grammy nomination for “On The Backs Of Angels” in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance category. The song was the first single from their 11th studio album, A Dramatic Turn of Events, which had 14 Top 10 debuts around the world, including the U.S., where it entered at #8 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart. 2009’s Black Clouds & Silver Linings also charted strongly, debuting at #6 on the Billboard Top 200, the highest-charting record of the band’s career.
They have also won several awards while at Roadrunner Records including Rollingstone.com’s readers’ poll for “Your Favorite Prog Rock Albums of All Time” (2012), several awards from the leading Japanese rock magazine BURRN! (2012) and the”Spirit of Prog” achievement award at the 2009 Classic Rock Awards. Overall, the legendary progressive metal masters have sold in excess of 10 million records and DVDs worldwide.A powerhouse live act, they’ve headlined and sold out shows all over the globe.
The band commented, “We are all very excited to be re-signing with Roadrunner Records! Over the past 5 years from the release of Systematic Chaos to our latest A Dramatic Turn of Events, we’ve developed strong creative and professional bonds with everyone at Roadrunner as well as many great friendships along the way.”
The band adds, “Roadrunner’s dedication and commitment to Dream Theater has been evident to all of us from the very beginning, and is consistent in all departments and on all levels, right on through to the top. Roadrunner is a record label that is not only great at what they do but who truly understand what Dream Theater is all about as well as the amazing people who support us all around the world whom we proudly call our fans. They are a record company we relate to as an organization firmly rooted in its ideals and mission, while always pushing the envelope in an effort to keep things moving ever forward. We’ve reached many career defining milestones while at Roadrunner and are all incredibly pumped in anticipation of our continued future together!”
Dream Theater formed in 1985 under the name Majesty. The lineup has evolved to become John Petrucci (guitar, founding member), John Myung (bass, founding member), James LaBrie (vocals), Jordan Rudess (keyboards and continuum) and drummer Mike Mangini.
Dream Theater recently wrapped up a massive worldwide headline tour in support of A Dramatic Turn of Events and is heading back into the studio to record their next album. The next chapter in Dream Theater’s storied career begins in 2013.
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* For more info on DREAM THEATER, click on the links below!
facebook: Dream Theater
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com
Stone.
6. Rain Song (Led Zeppelin)
7. Even in the Quietest Moments (Supertramp)
8. Can We Still be Friends (Todd Rundgren)
9. Speaking The Truth (Dan Burgess/Matt Williams)
10. Everybody’s Gotta learn Sometime (Korgies)
11. Yes Medley (Yes)
12. To one in Paradise (Alan Parsons)
13. The Way the Waters Moving (The Flower Kings) Bonus Track Remix 2012
YES – Back on February 19th, 1971, the third studio album from Yes was released in the UK on Atlantic Records. Conveniently titled The Yes Album, it boasts three songs that catapulted Yes into the stratosphere of Rock and Progressive Rock notoriety. Yours Is No Disgrace, Starship Trooper and I’ve Seen All Good People became eventual permanent listening fixtures on FM radio. These are easily the three songs from Yes that triggered me to become a fan of their music, so many years ago.
The Yes Album is without question, my favorite album from the Yes catalog. The Yes Album I regard as a 100% Progressive Rock and Rock classic, from a seriously legendary band that helped pioneer Progressive Rock. Yes belongs nominated and inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame… what an obvious scandal that this iconic band has not been given membership from that confusing “establishment” as of yet.
The Yes Album was released in the United States one month after its UK release. This was the first Yes album that featured the (eventual) legendary guitarist: Steve Howe. For me, I find it so amazing, that The Yes Album was released over 40 years ago and it still sounds so fresh and brilliant to this day. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve escaped stress while listening to The Yes Album. As fine of an introduction to Progressive Rock as you’ll hear, The Yes Album stands alone. Simply timeless to my ears is The Yes Album.
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Jon Anderson – lead vocals
Steve Howe – guitars, vocals & vihuela
Chris Squire – bass & vocals
Tony Kaye – organ, piano & moog
Bill Bruford – drums
* For more info on YES, click on the links below:
LONG LIVE YES.
Stone.
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
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