Wed, 12/14/2011 - 11:13 am

Ten years in the making, folk rocker Mike Acerbo's debut album, The Search, is set to release on February 14th, 2012. The Search is at once intensely personal and universal - rich with themes of love, loss and the search for self. The album combines a unique combination of sounds, drawing comparison to the likes of Sufjan Stevens, The Avett Brothers and Guster. With intricate arrangements of cellos, fiddles, piano, recorders, brass and guitars -the album unwinds into a fairytale full of dark imagery, with an other-worldly feel that battles that of Florence & The Machine.Adopted into a large, loving family in the suburbs of New York, Acerbo's childhood was darkened by the tragic losses of a childhood friend, his mother and a brother. Music became his refuge - an enchanted forest populated with the images, artwork, poetry and sounds of his sisters' extensive LP record collection.Eventually, Acerbo moved to the city and began to pursue a music career. "There was a point, when I felt so alone with my troubles, that all I had were the quiet hours after midnight and a song," he explains. "I wrote all the time, to get away from myself and to express the struggle I was going through. I had stories to tell and songs were the best way I knew how to get them out." The first track on the album, "Trilby," is about the dark sadness beneath the surface of Trilby, a waitress Acerbo worked with during his restaurant years.He had begun to record some basic tracks when his musical dreams melted away. Substance abuse promised to fill his voids, yet all it did was silence his sweet, sad sounds. After becoming sober 5 years ago, music reawakened in him. Ironically, it was a single song of loss that resurrected his passion.In the summer of 2009, Acerbo felt compelled to record a demo of the deeply personal "Robbie," a song about the meaningful life and tragic death of a close childhood friend. Rob's mom had learned of the song, and Acerbo promised her that one day she would hear it. The overwhelming response to "Robbie" inspired him to return to the studio to record his first full-length CD."A light bulb went on," he says. "I decided I had to make a record and wanted to make one that listeners would want to curl up on the couch and have a relationship with - the way I did as a kid."Mike Acerbo will release The Search on February 14th. Please visit http://www.mikeacerbo.com for more information.-The Search Track Listing:  1. Trilby2. Blueberry Moon3. Fairy Tale Love4. Mother5. The Search6. Where The River Meets The Sea7. No Moon8. Beast9. Robbie10. Like The Tide11. The Night Light

Fri, 02/17/2012 - 12:49 pm

Boston-based rocker, TJ Courtney brings listeners back to the powerhouse vocals and insightful, angst-ridden lyrics reminiscent of 90's grunge on his debut EP Into The Sky. Songwriting is a thoughtful, introspective process for TJ, with songs like the first single, "One Day," which questions our impact as a species on the world, or "Who Are They," a song that brings to light this generation's paranoid obsession with online voyeurism. Into The Sky is set to release on March 27th. You can purchase "One Day" here.

Amongst an overload of autotuned bubblegum pop, TJ's raw music is striking a chord with today's youth. The record is already sweeping college radio, being played in heavy rotation on over 30 stations including KXLU (Los Angeles) KSLU (St. Louis), WECB (Boston), WXIN (Providence), WKWZ (Long Island), WSIN (New Haven) WSIA (Staten Island) and WCCX (Wisconsin).

His distinct, gritty vocals blend powerful hooks and melodies that lay the foundation for his eloquent lyrics on his debut EP. The musicharkens back to his 90's influences like Oasis, Soundgarden, and the Foo Fighters, with production that holds up against any current rock track, thanks to producer Andrew Dixon (Colbie Callait and Ryan Cabrera) and mixer Mark Needham (The Killers, Neon Trees). The new EP, Into the Sky, features songs co-written by Jason "Space" Smith, best known for his cuts with post-grunge rockers Seether, And Waymon Boone of Splendor.

TJ's live show is versatile, ranging from a full rock line-up to intimate acoustic sets. The rock ensemble will continue to march around the New England area this year playing a slew of shows, which will certainly include headline dates at the Iron Horse in Northampton, Mass, TJ's hometown venue. TJ will be back in the studio this spring recording a follow up to Into the Sky. Stay tuned!

Please go to www.tjcourtney.com for more updates.

Upcoming Show: 

2/18 - Copperfield's - Boston, MA

Wed, 03/07/2012 - 2:13 pm

Drexel University's MAD Dragon Records (MDR) and Motion City Soundtrack's recently launched record label, The Boombox Generation, are pleased to announce the official Making Moves kick-off showcase at the annual South by Southwest Music Conference in Austin, Texas. The event will take place on Wednesday, March 14th at Clive Bar, with the first performance starting at 8PM. Motion City Soundtrack will headline the official Making Moves showcase with all of the emerging artists in the series (The Company We Keep, Brick + Mortar, Goldrush, The Skies Revolt, and A Great Big Pile of Leaves) performing during the evening. Making Moves is a series of 7" single releases by emerging artists curated by Motion City Soundtrack.  The singles will be released on limited edition 7" vinyl and digitally via MAD Dragon Records and Motion City Soundtrack's recently launched record label, The Boombox Generation.  The Making Moves series will be distributed by the Alternative Distribution Alliance.  Making Moves artists include: The Company We Keep (Detroit, MI), Brick + Mortar (Asbury Park, NJ), Goldrush (Richmond, VA), The Skies Revolt (Grand Rapids, MI) and A Great Big Pile of Leaves (Brooklyn, NY).  Additionally, Motion City Soundtrack will contribute two new songs for the series.  The Company We Keep will begin the schedule of artist releases on April 24th, 2012 and each additional artist will be released throughout the year.Members of Motion City Soundtrack (Justin Pierre, Josh Cain, Matt Taylor, Jesse Johnson, and Tony Thaxton) produced all of the artists' recordings between November 2011 and January 2012.  The sessions took place at Drexel University's studios in Philadelphia, PA with Drexel's Music Industry Program alumni and undergraduate students, Lenny Skolnick, Dave Petit and Justin Chapman engineering the sessions.  The recording process was documented by students from the Drexel Film & Video program for a documentary "Making Of" DVD that will accompany a box set including all titles and will be released in late 2012.The project came together at the annual South By Southwest Music Conference (SXSW) in March 2011.  According to Jesse Johnson of MCS, "Last year, I was at SXSW with the band I manage, A Great Big Pile of Leaves, and Terry Tompkins attended their showcase.  Johnson said, "After a few emails and phone calls, the Making Moves project was hatched; it went from simply doing a A Great Big Pile of Leaves seven inch to Motion City Soundtrack curating the series." Matt Taylor of MCS adds, "I'm hoping that people will be inspired by the collaboration and the many different factions involved with the series.  We came together with a common goal of releasing music that we're excited about. We want those who hear it to share in this excitement with us.""It is a privilege for the students in the Music Industry Program and MAD Dragon Records to work with Motion City Soundtrack (MCS) for the Making Moves Series," said Terry Tompkins, Associate Teaching Professor of the Music Industry Program and Managing Director of the Music Industry Program Entities at Drexel University.  "This partnership provides a rare opportunity for our students to work with an accomplished and recognized band.  Their (MCS) interest and enthusiasm to work with our students has exceeded our wildest expectations."

Fri, 03/23/2012 - 9:37 am

Los Angeles rock band Dead Sara have announced the release of their highly anticipated self-titled debut album on April 10th on Pocket Kid Records/ Fontana/Universal. Having spent much of last year in the studio, Dead Sara has hit the road in support of their debut full-length album beginning with a week of shows in Austin, TX at the SXSW Music Festival, followed by a spring tour supporting Chevelle, and radio festival dates including BuzzFest in Woodlands, TX, EdgeFest in Dallas, LAZERfest in Des Moines, and the Big Gig in Hartford, CT. Additional dates will be announced. The band will cap it all off with a 40+ date coast-to-coast run on the Vans Warped Tour this summer, beginning June 16th, and will perform at the annual Warped Tour kick-off party/record release party on Thursday, March 29 at Club Nokia in Los Angeles.

The bands' explosive first single "Weatherman" has sunk its teeth into Modern Rock and Active Rock radio and is already the #1 Most Requested Song at KYSR/Star 98.7FM in Los Angeles, while also scoring early adds from influential stations across the country.

The 11-track full-length debut set, produced by Noah Shain (Atreyu, As Tall As Lions, Sonny Moore/aka Skrillex), is driven by the dynamic duo of two talented young women, singer Emily Armstrong and guitarist Siouxsie Medley. The band is rounded out by bassist Chris Null and drummer Sean Friday, creating an electrifying four-piece rock band whose supercharged music is propelled by Medley's exhilarating, monster guitar riffs and Armstrong's powerful, wailing vocals.

The album veers effortlessly from melodic, soaring tunes such as "We Are What You Say" and "Whispers & Ashes," to fierce, blaring tracks "Monumental Holiday," "Lemon Scent," and "Weatherman," to bruised, power ballads like "Dear Love," "Face to Face," and the epic closing track "Sorry For It All."

The band, praised for its blazing impassioned rock and catchy guitar melodies, have been attracting major buzz for the ferocious spectacle of their high-octane live performances. A study in contrast onstage: Medley remains rooted in place - a solid, steady anchor for Armstrong's almost unhinged performance style. A skilled vocal stylist who can handle blues, soul, and folk-rock with equal aplomb, Armstrong can unleash a guttural howl one minute and trill as pretty as a songbird the next.

"That diversity is what's honest and real to us," Medley says. "We love classic rock, blues, folk, metal, punk, gospel, all of it, so we didn't want to put restrictions on ourselves genre-wise. We just knew we wanted the music to sound really raw and primal, even a bit unsettling." Dead Sara embodies everything you want from a young, hungry, unpredictable and enigmatic rock band.

Thu, 04/05/2012 - 11:50 am

The blues infused alternative pop band, known as D & M, have released an exclusive download of their new hit "The Sound Of Breaking My Heart" on CMJ.com today, April 5th. The band will be releasing their new EP, Wait For Me, on April 24th, 2012, produced by Brandon Bost. Drawing from the likes of John Mayer, Mumford & Sons, and Fun., their mix of pop, blues, and rock n' roll leaves something for all music lovers. Download "The Sound of Breaking My Heart" on CMJ.com today, here.

Consisting of Danny Fornasa (lead vocals/guitar), Matt Klahre (lead guitar), Matthew Jurasek (bass), and Sean Donaghy (drums), D & M was formed in 2009 at Drexel University in Philadelphia. Fornasa is the group's lead vocalist, acoustic guitar player, and main songwriter. His expansive vocal range allows the group to write dynamic songs that keep the listener enticed track after track. Klahre, the lead guitarist, returns the group's modern pop stylings to their blues roots with melodic guitar lines and searing blues solos. Last but not least, the solid groove set forth by the rhythm section of Jurasek on bass and Donaghy on drums gives the entire group a rock-solid foundation for their powerful sound.

D & M began touring soon after forming and by the Spring of 2010 were opening for national acts such as Yoko Ono, N.E.R.D., and Kevin Rudolph. Having two EP's under their belt, The Eyepatch EP (2009) and Delawanna (2011), D & M teamed up with Kickstarter to fan-fundraise for a national summer tour. With this the "Every State of the Union Tour" was born and brought D & M across the country on a national tour funded entirely by their fans.

To follow up Delawanna, D & M have been hard at work to release their newest record, Wait For Me. Recorded in Philadelphia; the band stays true to their roots, while expanding their sound with help from producer Brandon Bost. Within the first track, "The Sound of Breaking My Heart", you will understand just how powerful Fornasa's voice truly is, making you feel each lyric one sentence at a time. As the album goes straight into the next song, "The South of France", Klahre ends the track with one of his mesmerizing guitar solos that will only leave you craving more.

Fornasa tells us, "'Wait for me' is a big departure musically and thematically from our previous releases. What brings these five very different songs together is that they were all written on the road and away from home."

D & M will release Wait For Me on April 24th. Please go to wearedandm.com for more updates.

Thu, 04/12/2012 - 1:09 pm

American Gospel, the solo project of The Republic of Wolves' guitarist/singer Gregg DellaRocca, will be releasing their debut album, Tall Tales Vol. 1, on May 15th. A primarily conceptual writing project, DellaRocca combines story telling and personal experiences to deliver a fun, compelling, and sometimes dark, multi genre musical journey. With an impressive artwork of thought-provoking lyrics and unique instrumental parts, this is without a doubt a record you will not be able to put down.

Started in late 2009, Tall Tales Vol. 1 was recorded over the course of three years in two separate locations, DellaRocca's home studio in New York and his mobile studio in East Palestine, Ohio. In addition to writing the full album, DellaRocca also plays the majority of instruments and handles all of the production work. Over the past four years, he has embraced the DIY method to the best of his ability. The beautiful album artwork for Tall Tales Vol.1 was oil painted by DellaRocca himself, as well as a series of prints that correspond to a few of the stories on the album.

DellaRocca has been writing, recording, and playing for over eleven years. After graduating from Full Sail University with a degree in Audio Engineering, he finally found success in 2009 with The Republic of Wolves and the release of their debut EP, His Old Branches. Aside from writing, DellaRocca also handled the production and recording aspects of the project. The Republic of Wolves is still an active endeavor for DellaRocca, and in November 2010 they released their first full-length album, Varuna. Less than two months following the release of Varuna, The Republic of Wolves released it's counter part, a seven song EP titled The Cartographer and for the first time featured DellaRocca as the lead vocalist and writer. It was then that DellaRocca realized it was his time to release the masterpiece he has been keeping to himself, Tall Tales Vol. 1.

DellaRocca tells us, "This album was an opportunity for me to tell my stories. Some are true and some are not. But all of them together create something I think is special. Within the combinations of imagination, emotions, and pride. I found the timeline of my life so far, and I turned it into song."

American Gospel will release Tall Tales Vol. 1 on May 15th. Tall Tales Vol. 1 will be available for physical purchase, as well as digitally on iTunes and BandCamp.   

To pre-order Tall Tales Vol. 1 or for more information, please visit: www.American-Gospel.com

Track Listing:

01.  I Know

02.    Bayonet

03.    The Hanged Man

04.    Say

05.    Hunting Boar

06.    The Woods

07.    The Falling Feeling

08.    Better Off

09.    Forget Not Yet

10.    I'll Never Let You Go

11.    World Lines

12.    Geronimo

Tue, 06/12/2012 - 12:29 pm

After playing at Bonnaroo, Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and plenty of dates in between, Tauk, is heading home to Long Island for two major summer shows. The fusion-rock quartet will play The Great South Bay Music Festival on Saturday, July 14th (headliners moe. & Tea Leaf Green) and Jones Beach Bandshell on Friday, August 3rd in support of Reckoning, The Grateful Dead Tribute Band, as they celebrate Jerry Garcia's Birthday hosted by WBAB Radio. Since their formation 10 years ago in middle school, Tauk has scored opening gigs for O.A.R., moe.Robert Randolph & the Family Band311Tea Leaf GreenToubab Krewe, and has been featured on Fuse TV, Relix, Bands The Jam and more.

Tauk is breaking into the national music scene with the release of their new EP, "Pull Factors." The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz. Legendary sound engineer, Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac), invited Tauk into his studio in late 2011 to record "Pull Factors." The band then teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to harness the band's eclectic vision creating entirely instrumental new tracks. Download or stream Tauk's new EP, "Pull Factors" for free, here.

Since forming earlier this decade, Tauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and newest addition Isaac Teel joining in early 2012 (Drums). While their tunes are adventurous in scope, the band's origins are humble. Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. They continued to write songs and remained close friends while attending different colleges all over the country. Armed with degrees from some of the top music universities and conservatories in the nation, the band hit the road in the Fall of 2010, playing nearly 40 shows on a national tour with Robert Randolph and The Family Band, moe., and other legendary acts.

Tauk puts equal energy into their live shows as they do their recordings. The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what is sure to captivate the ears of music lovers from across all genres. The future is certainly looking bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.

Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Tour Dates:

7/14     Great South Bay Music Festival            Patchogue, NY  
8/3       Jones Beach Bandshell                           Wantagh, NY
8/11     Peach Festival (w/ Allman Bros.)             Scranton, PA
10/11   Harvest String Festival                              Ozark, AR
--
WHO: TAUK
WHERE: Shorefront Park | Rider Ave & Smith St.| Patchogue, NY 11772
WHEN: Sat. July 14 | Show Time TBA | $35 1 day/ $75 weekend pass
 
WHO: TAUK
WHAT: Celebrate Jerry Garcia's Birthday hosted by WBAB Radio Station
WHERE: Jones Beach Boardwalk Bandshell | on Jones Beach Boardwalk near Center Mall | Wantagh, NY 11793
WHEN: Friday, Aug 3rd | Show Time TBA | FREE
Tue, 07/10/2012 - 1:36 pm

South Florida's resident pop rockers, the Jacob Jeffries Band,have premiered the official music video for their new single, "Suffocate My Heart" today on MTV Buzzworthy. Check it out here. The band released their fourth studio album, Tell Me Secrets on May 18th. Once south Florida's best-kept secret, the Jacob Jeffries Band is now breaking into the scene with widespread accolades about the band's piano-driven rock. With its unique blend of explosive energy and soulful songwriting, Jacob Jeffries' music captures the best of influences Ben Folds, Gavin DeGraw, Jason Mraz and Tom Petty. Check out the acoustic version of "Suffocate My Heart" on Dianna Agron of GLEE's "You Me & Charlie" blog here.  When asked about the making of the music video, Jacob Jeffries says, "'Suffocate My Heart' is a fun song. Its melody and bounce just make you smile. So coming up with the idea for the video was simple - make it colorful, make it quirky and make people smile." Since the band's formation in 2006, the Jacob Jeffries Band, consisting of Jacob Jeffries (vocals, piano), Jimmy Powers (electric guitar, backing vocals) and Eric Jackowitz (drums, backing vocals), has garnered widespread critical acclaim. Highlights include winning the 2011 Nationals Singer Songwriter Shootout (previous winners include John Mayer and The Indigo Girls), being named "Best Live Band & Best New Release" by the Broward-Palm Beach and Miami New Times and winning the Florida Grammy Showcase.  The band has recently caught the attention of renowned musicians Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional, who called Jacob "incredible" in a recent interview, and Sara Bareilles, who praised the band on her twitter for their cover video of her song, "Uncharted."  The Jacob Jeffries band has played alongside notable artists including Eric Hutchinson, Sugar Ray, Tim Reynolds, Gin Blossoms and The Click Five, earning a contract with Warner Chappell Publishing and an endorsement from Baldwin Pianos/Gibson Guitar. Following the May 18th release of Tell Me Secrets the band has been busy touring the US, and will be playing a July 4th show alongside Sister Hazel.

Wed, 07/11/2012 - 7:02 pm

After turning heads this summer with their electrifying instrumental performances at Bonnaroo, Hangout Music Festival and Summer Camp Music Festival, Tauk will be topping off their summer festival run by performing on Saturday, August 11th at the first annual Peach Music Festival, presented and headlined by The Allman Brothers Band. This 3-day festival will take place in Scranton, PA from August 10th-12th and will reunite Tauk with many bands they have shared the stage with in the past, such as O.A.R., Robert Randolph & The Family Band and Toubab Krewe. Performing with such talented and world-renowned musicians is always a thrill for the band, explains keyboard/ organist Alric "A.C." Carter. "We're honored to play with great acts like The Allman Brothers, The Wailers and Robert Randolph, just to name a few. It's inspiring to be among these bands that continue to produce great music and support live music festivals."Tauk is breaking into the national music scene with the release of their new EP, "Pull Factors." The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz. Legendary sound engineer, Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac), invited Tauk into his studio in late 2011 to record "Pull Factors." The band then teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to harness the band's eclectic vision creating entirely instrumental new tracks. Download or stream Tauk's new EP, "Pull Factors" for free, here: http://bit.ly/pullfactorsyoutube  Since forming earlier this decade, Tauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and newest addition Isaac Teel joining in early 2012 (Drums). While their tunes are adventurous in scope, the band's origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. They continued to write songs and remained close friends while attending different colleges all over the country. Armed with degrees from some of the top music universities and conservatories in the nation, the band hit the road in the Fall of 2010, playing nearly 40 shows on a national tour with Robert Randolph and The Family Band, MOE., and other legendary acts.Tauk puts equal energy into their live shows as they do their recordings. The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what is sure to captivate the ears of music lovers from across all genres. The future is certainly looking bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.Tour Dates7/14     Great South Bay Music Festival                     Patchogue, NY  8/3       Jones Beach Bandshell                                       Wantagh, NY8/11     Peach Festival (w/ Allman Bros.)         Scranton, PA10/11   Harvest String Festival                                      Ozark, AR

Mon, 08/13/2012 - 3:52 pm

Rachel Brown will be releasing her debut EP Building Castles on September 18th, 2012.The singer-songwriter, who was born and raised in New York City with Ethiopian, Bermudian and Southern roots, fuses pop, Caribbean, Hawaiian, country, hip-hop and world sounds into Building Castles' six self-penned songs.The EP's first single, "Bumblebee," will be accompanied by a music video directed by Rex Arrow Productions founder Ian Wolfson (Mac Miller, Nelly).With no formal musical training, Brown found her voice organically. "I would pick up my guitar and teach myself how to play by writing songs," says Brown. "I just played until it sounded right."Peers and established veterans alike quickly recognized Brown's natural talent. She was the 2010 recipient of the prestigious ASCAP Foundation Robert Allen Award for songwriting as well as a 2011 recipient of the Songwriter's Hall of Fame Abe Olman Award for Excellence in Songwriting. She also received a very coveted showcase slot at the National Association for Campus Activities' national convention, leading to a 40-date college tour.Brown's music also caught the ear of one of her favorite musical influences, Wyclef Jean. The week after she graduated college, the singer received a surprise when Jean brought her up on stage to perform an impromptu duet of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" at a fundraiser held at New York's legendary Cipriani 42nd Street, and most recently Jean joined Brown onstage at her residency at NYC's famed supper club, The Darby.Having only been performing publicly since her junior year in college, the Harvard graduate's (she was selected as one of Harvard's "15 Most Interesting Seniors" in 2010) honest lyrics and melodic sound have secured exposure not often seen by a new artist. Brown has been featured by the New York Post and PerezHilton.com and has opened for the likes of Mary J. Blige and Robin Thicke at Bermuda's National Stadium, and John Legend and Quincy Jones at the Bermuda Music Festival.Tracklisting:1. Bumblebee2. Four Leaf Clovers3. Rockstar4. Your Little Act5. Falling In Love Backwards6. On Your SideShow Dates:August 16th- The Darby214 W. 14th Street, NYCAugust 23rd- The Darby214 W. 14th Street, NYCAugust 30th- The Darby214 W. 14th Street, NYCSeptember 21st- John Lennon Bermuda TributeBotanical Gardens, Bermuda

Thu, 08/16/2012 - 3:39 pm

One of the most successful and iconic music releases of the Eighties, Peter Gabriel's 1986 album, So, has been digitally remastered for a special 25th Anniversary Edition to be released October 23rd (October 22nd internationally) by Real World Records/EMI in multiple physical and digital configurations.  Peter Gabriel has confirmed a 16-date North American tour for September and October, with many of the musicians from his 1987 'So' tour joining him to perform the album from start to finish, as well as other hits spanning his solo career. 

Peter Gabriel's So topped charts around the world, hitting Number 1 in the UK, Canada, Italy, and Holland and Number 2 in the US and Germany.  So became a decade-defining album andthe best-selling release of Gabriel's solo career, landing an international array of multi-Platinum certifications, including quintuple-Platinum in the US with sales of more than five million copies.

Launched with the huge hit single "Sledgehammer" and its groundbreaking music video (which remains MTV's most played video of all time), So also includes "In Your Eyes," famously featured in Cameron Crowe's film 'Say Anything,' the haunting duet "Don't Give Up," performed with Kate Bush, and "Big Time," Gabriel's bombastic, tongue-in-cheek commentary on '80s extravagance.  Co-produced by Gabriel and Daniel Lanois, the album also includes contributions from Laurie Anderson, Stewart Copeland, Jim Kerr, Bill Laswell, and Nile Rodgers.

So's 25th Anniversary Edition will be available on CD and digitally, as well as in an expanded 3CD and digital Special Edition, which adds a previously unreleased 1987 Athens concert recording from Gabriel's 'So' tour, and as a 4CD/2DVD/LP/12" Deluxe, Limited Edition box set.  All of the configurations are available now for pre-order at http://petergabriel.com/so25us.

The box set includes the remastered album on CD and on 180-gram vinyl which has been mastered at half speed to maximize the audio quality and re-sequenced so the tracklist, unlike that of the original LP, is as Peter Gabriel had originally envisioned. The set also features a bounty of previously unreleased audio and video content, including the two Athens concert CDs and a 'So DNA' CD of work-in-progress drafts of So's songs, mapping the album's evolution from concept to completion.

One of the box set's two DVDs features the fully restored Athens concert, which was filmed and recorded by director Michael Chapman and executive produced by Martin Scorsese.  Gabriel's first concert to be filmed, the footage has been assembled for the first time from more than 150 reels of original 35mm negatives and its audio has been mixed in 5.1 surround. The box set's second DVD features a new 'So: Classic Album' documentary.  The latest addition to the acclaimed and award-winning 'Classic Album' series tells the story behind the making of the album and its music videos, with contributions from many of those involved, including interviews with Gabriel and Lanois, among others.

The box set also includes a 12-inch double A-side vinyl single with two previously unreleased tracks from the So sessions, "Courage" and "Sangrada," plus an alternate version of "Don't Give Up" (Piano and Bvox Mix). A 60-page case-bound book with an introduction and 'So DNA' summary written by Peter Gabriel, new liner notes, and an extensive collection of rare and never before seen photographs completes the set.

Tickets are on-sale now for Peter Gabriel's North American 'Back To Front' Tour, to begin in Quebec City on September 16th and continue to Montreal, Toronto, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and several other major cities.

Thu, 08/16/2012 - 3:50 pm

The NYC-based rock/fusion quartet TAUK announces today they will join the lineup of Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Music Festival to be held October 11-13th in Ozark, Arkansas. TAUK will play Saturday, October 13th at 8pm. The band has spent the past summer turning heads with their electrifying instrumental performances at Bonnaroo, Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest. For more information, please visit: taukband.com.Since their formation 10 years ago in middle school, TAUK has scored opening gigs for O.A.R., moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. The band just announced two upcoming shows with Perpetual Groove at NYC's acclaimed music venue, Brooklyn Bowl.Tauk is breaking into the national music scene with the release of their new EP, "Pull Factors." The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz. Legendary sound engineer, Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac), invited Tauk into his studio in late 2011 to record "Pull Factors." The band then teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to harness the band's eclectic vision creating entirely instrumental new tracks. Download or stream Tauk's new EP, "Pull Factors" for free, here: http://bit.ly/pullfactorsyoutubeTauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and newest addition Isaac Teel joining in early 2012 (Drums). While their tunes are adventurous in scope, the band's origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. They continued to write songs and remained close friends while attending different colleges all over the country. Armed with degrees from some of the top music universities and conservatories in the nation, the band hit the road in the Fall of 2010, playing nearly 40 shows on a national tour with Robert Randolph and The Family Band, moe., and other legendary acts.The four-piece puts equal energy into their live shows as they do their recordings. The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what is sure to captivate the ears of music lovers from across all genres. The future is certainly looking bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Thu, 08/23/2012 - 2:41 pm

The NYC-based rock/fusion quartet TAUK announced today they will open for festival legends, Perpetual Groove on select dates of their Fall Fend For Your Life US tour. TAUK will join the tour with a one-off set in Richmond on Sept 6th followed up by the band's highly-anticipated return to their hometown jam/rock mecca, Brooklyn Bowl on September 21st and 22nd. Other highlights of TAUK's Fall includes joining the lineup of Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Music Festival to be held October 11-13th in Ozark, Arkansas. TAUK spent the Summer 2012 turning heads with their electrifying instrumental performances at Bonnaroo, Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest. For more information, please visit: taukband.com.Charlie Dolan, bassist for TAUK, says, "We couldn't be more excited to open for Perpetual Groove in the coming months. It's a very exciting opportunity to play with one of the premier bands in the live music scene and for their loyal fan base!"Since their formation 10 years ago in middle school, TAUK has scored opening gigs for O.A.R., moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. The band just announced two upcoming shows with Perpetual Groove at NYC's acclaimed music venue, Brooklyn Bowl.Tauk is breaking into the national music scene with the release of their new EP, "Pull Factors." The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz. Legendary sound engineer, Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac), invited Tauk into his studio in late 2011 to record "Pull Factors." The band then teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to harness the band's eclectic vision creating entirely instrumental new tracks. Download or stream Tauk's new EP, "Pull Factors" for free, here.Tauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and newest addition Isaac Teel joining in early 2012 (Drums). While their tunes are adventurous in scope, the band's origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. They continued to write songs and remained close friends while attending different colleges all over the country. Armed with degrees from some of the top music universities and conservatories in the nation, the band hit the road in the Fall of 2010, playing nearly 40 shows on a national tour with Robert Randolph and The Family Band, moe., and other legendary acts.The four-piece puts equal energy into their live shows as they do their recordings. The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what is sure to captivate the ears of music lovers from across all genres. The future is certainly looking bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Thu, 08/23/2012 - 9:23 pm

The NYC blues-rock band, JD & The Straight Shot, announced today it will open for The Eagles at Revel Ovation Hall in Atlantic City, NJ on Saturday, September 1st and Sunday, September 2nd.

JD & The Straight Shot just released a new album entitled Midnight Run on July 24th. Midnight Run was created by lead vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Jim Dolan, along with Grammy Award-winning producer Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel, Elvis Costello).  The album features a backing band composed of some of the hottest session players in New York, including: drummers Charlie Drayton (Keith Richards, Fiona Apple, Herbie Hancock) and Shawn Pelton (Saturday Night Live band); guitarists Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman) and Marc Copely (B.B. King, Bono); bassist Zev Katz (Roxy Music, Dolly Parton); keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm); and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Jon Bon Jovi).

JD & The Straight Shot's previous albums have previously collaborations with Joe Walsh of The Eagles, pedal steel guitar virtuoso Robert Randolph, and songwriter/guitarist Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits.  The band has toured with such acts as The Eagles, The James Gang, Allman Brothers Band, and more.

Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

Tue, 09/11/2012 - 7:35 pm

One of the most successful and iconic music releases of the Eighties, Peter Gabriel's 1986 album, So, has been digitally remastered for a special 25th Anniversary Edition to be released October 23rd (October 22nd internationally) by Real World Records/EMI in multiple physical and digital configurations. The 25th Anniversary Edition is now available for pre-order, and a video description of the box set can be viewed here. Peter Gabriel has confirmed a 16-date North American tour for September and October, with many of the musicians from his 1987 'So' tour joining him to perform the album from start to finish, as well as other hits spanning his solo career.

Peter Gabriel's So topped charts around the world, hitting Number 1 in the UK, Canada, Italy, and Holland and Number 2 in the US and Germany. So became a decade-defining album andthe best-selling release of Gabriel's solo career, landing an international array of multi-Platinum certifications, including quintuple-Platinum in the US with sales of more than five million copies.

Launched with the huge hit single "Sledgehammer" and its groundbreaking music video (which remains MTV's most played video of all time), So also includes "In Your Eyes," famously featured in Cameron Crowe's film 'Say Anything,' the haunting duet "Don't Give Up," performed with Kate Bush, and "Big Time," Gabriel's bombastic, tongue-in-cheek commentary on '80s extravagance. Co-produced by Gabriel and Daniel Lanois, the album also includes contributions from Laurie Anderson, Stewart Copeland, Jim Kerr, Bill Laswell, and Nile Rodgers.

So's 25th Anniversary Edition will be available on CD and digitally, as well as in an expanded 3CD and digital Special Edition, which adds a previously unreleased 1987 Athens concert recording from Gabriel's 'So' tour, and as a 4CD/2DVD/LP/12" Deluxe, Limited Edition box set. All of the configurations are available now for pre-order at http://petergabriel.com/so25us.

The box set includes the remastered album on CD and on 180-gram vinyl which has been mastered at half speed to maximize the audio quality and re-sequenced so the tracklist, unlike that of the original LP, is as Peter Gabriel had originally envisioned. The set also features a bounty of previously unreleased audio and video content, including the two Athens concert CDs and a 'So DNA' CD of work-in-progress drafts of So's songs, mapping the album's evolution from concept to completion.

One of the box set's two DVDs features the fully restored Athens concert, which was filmed and recorded by director Michael Chapman and executive produced by Martin Scorsese. Gabriel's first concert to be filmed, the footage has been assembled for the first time from more than 150 reels of original 35mm negatives and its audio has been mixed in 5.1 surround. The box set's second DVD features a new 'So: Classic Album' documentary. The latest addition to the acclaimed and award-winning 'Classic Album' series tells the story behind the making of the album and its music videos, with contributions from many of those involved, including interviews with Gabriel and Lanois, among others.

The box set also includes a 12-inch double A-side vinyl single with two previously unreleased tracks from the So sessions, "Courage" and "Sangrada," plus an alternate version of "Don't Give Up" (Piano and Bvox Mix). A 60-page case-bound book with an introduction and 'So DNA' summary written by Peter Gabriel, new liner notes, and an extensive collection of rare and never before seen photographs completes the set.

Tickets are on-sale now for Peter Gabriel's North American 'Back To Front' Tour, to begin in Quebec City on September 16th and continue to Montreal, Toronto, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and several other major cities.

Thu, 09/20/2012 - 10:32 am

The NYC blues-rock band, JD & The Straight Shot, has released their latest album Midnight Run, a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music. Midnight Run is the group's second project with esteemed producer Kevin Killen(U2Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios. The group has toured with Joe Walsh, Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers, Robert Randolph and more. Find out more on JD & The Straight Shot's latest release, here.Founder and frontman, Jim Dolan, formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. Dolan's day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. "I don't actually set up cable and I don't really shoot hoops, I suck at that," he says laughing. "Music is something I've played since I was a kid. It's me purely expressing myself."The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee), this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).After 3 previous releases inspired by hard rocking blues, the band has found its home in the quiet fire of acoustic music. "I like this style of music for storytelling, it offers a more expressive palette," Dolan says. The new EP's second-line style syncopated grooves, glorious vocal harmonies, violins, banjos, and backbone acoustic guitar imbues The Straight Shot's sin and salvation tales with haunting urgency.JD & The Straight Shot has been covered by The New York TimesESPN, and New York Magazine, among other publications. Their song "Cant Make Tears" is the theme song for AMC's TV show Hell on Wheels, and their music has been featured in many films, including the critically acclaimed Hurricane Season.Not only has the band been honored to open for living legends such as The Allman Brothers and The Eagles, they have also graced the stages of some of the top music venues in the country including New Jersey's Giants Stadium, Chicago's Soldier Field and recently Revel Casino in Atlantic City. JD & The Straight Shot have also played the world's top music festivals including The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festivaland Austin City Limits. The band has just announced they will return to New Orleans to play Voodoo Fest on October 28th.Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.comTrack Listing:1.     Midnight Run2.     Holy Water3.     Let It Roll4.     Float Away5.     I'll See You Again6.     Voodoo Stew7.     Can't Make Tears

Thu, 10/11/2012 - 10:43 am

The NYC blues-rock band JD & The Straight Shot announces today they will play four Canadian dates in support of rock legends, ZZ Top. The shows will be held on November 3rd, 4th, 7th and 8th with performances in both Ontario and Quebec provinces. Founder and frontman, James Dolan, commented, "We're honored to open for ZZ. We look forward to playing our new music for their fans. We will do our best to warm everyone up for a fun night of ZZ music."

JD & The Straight Shot just recently released their latest album Midnight Run, a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music. Midnight Run is the group's second project with esteemed producer Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios. The group has toured with Joe Walsh, Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers, Robert Randolph and more. Find out more on JD & The Straight Shot's latest release, here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

Dolan formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. "I don't actually set up cable and I don't really shoot hoops, I suck at that," he says laughing. "Music is something I've played since I was a kid. It's me purely expressing myself."

The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee), this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).

JD & The Straight Shot has been covered by The New York Times, ESPN, and New York Magazine, among other publications. Their song "Cant Make Tears" is the theme song for AMC's TV show Hell on Wheels, and their music has been featured in many films, including the critically acclaimed Hurricane Season.

Upcoming Shows:

Oct 28      The Voodoo Experience Festival          New Orleans, LA

Nov 3        K-Rock Centre                                   Kingston, Ontario, CA

Nov 4        John Labatt Centre                             London, Ontario, CA

Nov 7        Bell Centre                                         Montreal, Quebec, CA

Nov 8        Southam at National Arts Centre          Ottawa, Ontario, CA

Thu, 11/15/2012 - 10:46 am

The NYC-based rock/fusion quartet TAUK announced today they will throw a Hurricane Sandy Benefit Concert at Spike Hill in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday, November 24th. All funds raised at the event will be matched by sponsors and then donated to All Hands Volunteers (www.hands.org), an organization already helping families in New York and New Jersey rebuild after the storm.

With band members from Long Island and Staten Island, TAUK felt especially inspired to act in the wake of the storm. When Sandy tore through their hometowns, the band was in Alabama on tour with Perpetual Groove. "We returned home to a state and city in desperate need of help. Many have lost their homes entirely and thousands more remain without power. Realizing this, we felt the best thing to do would be to put a show together to benefit those still in need."

TAUK will headline the show with support from fellow NYC acts TBA soon. Entrance into the show is free but a $10 donation is encouraged as well as for attendees to contribute coats. Attendees who bring coats or give the suggested donation will receive a free beer.

Tauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Tauk released their EP, "Pull Factors" in March 2012 and plans to head into the studio in December with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to record their first ever, all-instrumental LP. The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz.

While their tunes are adventurous in scope, the band's origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. Since playing together for a full decade and crafting their unique instrumental style, TAUK has scored opening gigs for O.A.R., moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe and spots of top festivals such as Bonnaroo, Gathering of the Vibes, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest.

Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Mon, 12/03/2012 - 11:58 am

The NYC blues-rock band JD & The Straight Shot will perform at The 12th Annual Holiday Rock & Roll Bash on Thursday, December 6th to benefit The Lustgarten Foundation in the fight against pancreatic cancer. The event will be held at the legendary Hard Rock in Times Square, presented by Cablevision, AMC Networks and The Madison Square Garden Company. Because Cablevision underwrites all of the Foundation's administrative expenses, 100 percent of the funds raised go directly toward pancreatic cancer research to detect the disease earlier, develop better treatments, and ultimately, to find a cure. For more information on the Foundation and the benefit, visit: www.lustgarten.org

JD & The Straight Shot founder and frontman, James Dolan, formed JD & The Straight Shot with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision Systems Corporation and Executive Chairman of The Madison Square Garden Company, Inc. where he oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers.

Marc Lustgarten, the former vice chairman of Cablevision and chairman of Madison Square Garden, along with the help of Cablevision Chairman Charles Dolan and Chief Executive James Dolan, established The Lustgarten Foundation in 1998 before Marc died from pancreatic cancer the following year. Today, the Foundation that Marc inspired is the nation's largest private foundation dedicated to funding pancreatic cancer research, providing millions to research since its inception.

JD & The Straight Shot released their latest album Midnight Run in the summer of 2012. The album is already being called a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music. Midnight Run is the group's second project with esteemed producer Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios. The group has toured with Joe Walsh, Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers, Robert Randolph and more. Find out more on JD & The Straight Shot's latest release and upcoming shows, here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee), this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).

Tue, 12/11/2012 - 4:27 pm

Rachel Brown, the ever talented songstress will be performing a holiday show at Rockwood Music Hall is on Saturday, December 22nd at 8pm. Come get into the holiday spirit while Rachel sings a mix of original tunes and holiday classics! The Rockwood Music hall is located at 169 Allen Street.Rachel, who is receiving rave reviews on her debut EP, recently celebrated with and album release party last month at The Darby, where celebrities such as John Stamos, NY Giant Prince Amukamara and others came out to celebrate with her! She has gained a huge following in support of her album release, including one of her favorite musical influences, Wyclef Jean, who recently joined her on stage at The Darby during a performance!Building Castles has already received the praise of critics and tastemakers alike. Glamour.com applauded the EP, writing that, "the songs...have a feeling of worn-in comfort. And her sensually soulful vocals carry the EP's captivating mélange of sounds - from Caribbean to hip-hop and world fusion - with uncanny ease, while conveying joy." DailyCandy declared that "the hype is justified."The singer-songwriter, who was born and raised in New York City with Ethiopian, Bermudian and Southern roots, fuses pop, Caribbean, Hawaiian, country, hip-hop and world sounds into an original and captivating groove.With no formal musical training, Brown found her voice organically. "I would pick up my guitar and teach myself how to play by writing songs," says Brown. "I just played until it sounded right." Having only been performing publicly since her junior year in college, the Harvard graduate's (she was selected as one of Harvard's "15 Most Interesting Seniors" in 2010) honest lyrics and melodic sound have secured exposure not often seen by a new artist. Brown has been featured by the New York Post and PerezHilton.com and has opened for the likes of Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, John Legend and Quincy Jones.Who: Rachel BrownWhat: Holiday ShowWhere: Rockwood Music Hall- 196 Allen St. New York, NYWhen: December 22, 2012- 8pm

Tue, 01/22/2013 - 12:46 pm

Cleveland's heralded soul/rock band Winslow, is set to release their much anticipated sophomore album Left of the Right Direction on March 26th via Little Fish Records and RCR Recording Studios. The 6-piece teamed up with Grammy-Award Winning Producer Edwin "Tony" Nicholas (Barry White, Mary J Blige, Gerald Levert) and Grammy-Nominated engineer Nick Chahwala (Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, Gym Class Heroes) to produce the new album.

In celebration of the announcement, the band premiered the album's first single, "Alone Tonight" on WJCU Cleveland 88.7FM. Purchase "Alone Tonight," here.

Winslow's unique blend of soul, funk, rock and jazz has been described as a musical breath of fresh air. This sound, combined with the group's polished and passionate live show has led them to sharing the stage with such major acts as Incubus, Earth Wind & Fire, OAR, Robert Randolph, Keane, Lupe Fiasco, Rusted Root, and many more.

Maurice Martin, vocalist for Winslow, explains how the band's four years of growth and changes has led them to creating Left of the Right Direction"We have grown a lot since our first album. I feel like our songwriting really has come a long way. We aren't trying to fit into a mold of a certain genre or style. Our real goal was to create an album that we could be proud of. Call it pop. Call it soul. As long as people listen, they can call it what they will."

Winslow is Maurice Martin (vocals), Matt Tieman (saxophone), Curtis Tate (keyboard), Charlie Trenta (guitar), Danny Kolliner (bass), and Jesse Marquardt (drums). Each member of the band has a background studying diverse styles of music and it comes through in the music. Subsequently, all of Winslow's tracks can be heard as their own individual vignettes, highlighting one distinct part of the group's musical background. Martin's hooks and signature vocal style serve as the bond that ties the songs together and make the album cohesive.

Winslow will release Left of the Right Direction on March 26th. Please head to www.winslowsoul.com for more updates.

Fri, 01/25/2013 - 5:52 pm

Coming off a huge 2012, the NYC-based rock/fusion band TAUK announces today their first festival dates of 2013: Snoe.down and Floyd Fest. TAUK will play Snoe.down in Killington, VT on March 26th and Floyd Fest in Floyd, VA on July 25th. For updates, visit: www.taukband.com.The 4-piece is finishing up recording their first entirely instrumental full-length album at Los Angeles’s Brushfire Records Studio with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta). The LP is due out Spring 2013 and the band plans to tour heavily on their new music.Tauk is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Tauk’s latest full-length is a followup to their critically-acclaimed EP, "Pull Factors" (March 2012), also produced by Carranza and recorded with the legendary Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac). The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz.While their tunes are adventurous in scope, TAUK’s origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. Since playing together for a full decade and crafting their unique instrumental style, TAUK has scored opening gigs for O.A.R., moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe and spots of top festivals such as Bonnaroo, Gathering of the Vibes, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest.Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Thu, 02/21/2013 - 5:44 pm

Coming off their biggest year yet, the NYC-based rock/fusion band TAUK announces today they will make their triumphant return to the Summer Camp Music Festival lineup. The 13th annual festival will take place on Memorial Day Weekend, Mar 24-26, 2013 in Chillicothe, Illinois. Thrilled to join such an incredible lineup, TAUK's bassist Charlie Dolan commented, "Were pumped to make it back to Summer Camp this year! Been a while since we have seen us some Trey with a side of Lettuce!"Earlier this month the band announced they will play Snoe.down on March 26th in Killington, VT and Floyd Fest on July 25th in Floyd, VA. For updates, visit: www.taukband.com.The 4-piece is finishing up recording their first entirely instrumental full-length album at Los Angeles's Brushfire Records Studio with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta). The LP is due out Spring 2013 and the band plans to tour heavily to bring their new music and impressive and unique live show to audiences across the nation.TAUK is Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), Matt Jalbert (Guitar), and Isaac Teel (Drums). TAUK's latest full-length is a followup to their critically-acclaimed EP, "Pull Factors" (March 2012), also produced by Carranza and recorded with the legendary Dave Natale (Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac). The band's sound is a unique blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit that has already attracted an early DIY buzz.While their tunes are adventurous in scope, TAUK's origins are humble.  Dolan, Carter, and Jalbert met as teenagers in middle school and instantly connected over a shared passion for music. Since playing together for a full decade and crafting their unique instrumental style, TAUK has scored opening gigs for O.A.R.moe.Robert Randolph & the Family BandPerpetual Groove311Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe and spots of top festivals such as BonnarooGathering of the VibesThe Hangout Music FestivalSummer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest.Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Tue, 02/26/2013 - 2:54 pm

Cleveland's beloved soul/rock band Winslow will be taking their talents to the south, Austin to be specific, to play at this year's South by Southwest. The band will be headlining the Cleveland Rocks Showcase, sponsored by the city's legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Winslow will be releasing their new full-length album, Left of the Right Direction, shortly after SXSW on March 26th via Little Fish Records and RCR Recording Stuios.Winslow teamed up with Grammy-Award Winning Producer Edwin "Tony" Nicholas (Barry White, Mary J Blige, Gerald Levert) and Grammy-Nominated engineer Nick Chahwala (Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, Gym Class Heroes) to produce the new album.The 6-piece's unique blend of soul, funk, rock and jazz has been described as a musical breath of fresh air. This sound, combined with the group's polished and passionate live show has led them to sharing the stage with such major acts as Incubus, Earth Wind & Fire, OAR, Robert Randolph, Keane, Lupe Fiasco, Rusted Root, and many more.Winslow is Maurice Martin (vocals), Matt Tieman (saxophone), Curtis Tate (keyboard), Charlie Trenta (guitar), Danny Kolliner (bass), and Jesse Marquardt (drums). Each member of the band has a background studying diverse styles of music and it comes through in the music. Subsequently, all of Winslow's tracks can be heard as their own individual vignettes, highlighting one distinct part of the group's musical background. Martin's hooks and signature vocal style serve as the bond that ties the songs together and make the album cohesive.

Wed, 03/06/2013 - 2:47 pm

Singer-songwriter Rachel Brown performs at The Darby, tomorrow, March 7th, 2013.  Brown, who holds a residency at NYC's famed supper club, will be performing multiple sets, beginning acoustically and finishing off accompanied by a full band.  The show kicks off at 7:30 pm. For reservations, call 212.242.4411.  Brown will also be performing at The Darby on March 14th, 21st, and 28th, at 7:30pm.Brown's debut EP, Building Castles, has received the praise of critics and tastemakers alike. Glamour.com applauded the EP, writing that, "the songs...have a feeling of worn-in comfort. And her sensually soulful vocals carry the EP's captivating mélange of sounds - from Caribbean to hip-hop and world fusion - with uncanny ease, while conveying joy." DailyCandy declared that "the hype is justified." Celebrity fans include Wyclef Jean, John Stamos, Jaden Smith, and Prince Amukamara.The singer-songwriter, who was born and raised in New York City with Ethiopian, Bermudian and Southern roots, fuses pop, Caribbean, Hawaiian, country, hip-hop and world sounds into an original and captivating groove.With no formal musical training, Brown found her voice organically. "I would pick up my guitar and teach myself how to play by writing songs," says Brown. "I just played until it sounded right." Having only been performing publicly since her junior year in college, the Harvard graduate's (she was selected as one of Harvard's "15 Most Interesting Seniors" in 2010) honest lyrics and melodic sound have secured exposure not often seen by a new artist. Brown has been featured by the New York Post and PerezHilton.com and has opened for the likes of Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, John Legend and Quincy Jones.Who: Rachel BrownWhat: Multiple Shows at The DarbyWhere: The Darby - 244 West 14th Street New York, NYWhen:   March 7th     -  7:30pm             March 14th   -  7:30pm             March 21st   -  7:30 pm             March 28th   -  7:30 pm

Wed, 03/06/2013 - 3:49 pm

The RedGorilla Music Fest has announced its schedule including: Dot Dot Dot, Nappy Roots, K.Flay, Robert Fortune Band, Thee Attacks, The Cringe, Lovebettie, Air Dubai, Kyle Lucas (Vonnegutt), Griffin House, Andy Davis, The Hollywood Kills, Hank & Cupcakes, Taddy Porter, Jeffrey David, Eric White, Seis Pistos, Hydra Melody, The Black Cadillacs, The Material, Larry g(EE), The Weekend Hustler, The Kicks, Old Southern Moonshine Revival, The Hollows, Paris Luna, Tommy & the High Pilots, Via Coma, The James Douglas Show, WhySoWhite, Goodbye June, Shiny Darkly, Brighton MA, Grown Up Avenger Stuff and more! Check out the full schedule here: http://www.redgorillamusic.com/schedule/.

There will be many updates and additions in the coming week, so be sure to visit http://www.redgorillamusic.com/schedule/ to stay up-to-date! This year's RedGorilla Music Fest will be held from Tuesday, March 12th through Saturday, March 16th in venues on 6th Street, right in the heart of all the action. The event continues to be a "No Badge Required" event, it is free to attend and open to the general public.
 
Over the years, some of the hottest established and up-and-coming acts in the world have been showcased by RedGorilla Music Fest. As a result, RedGorilla has received international media attention and a reputation for being the showcase for new music. Showcasing acts have included: Kopecky Family Band, Andrew WK, Ryan Bingham, Cage The Elephant, Tom Cochrane, Continental Feat. Rick Barton of The Dropkick MurphysColt Ford, Neon Hitch, The Gallery, Sam Sparro, Breathe Electric and The Dollyrots.
 
RedGorilla Music Fest launched ten years ago as the DreamScapers Artist Showcase and grew each year under that name. In 2007, the showcase was branded as RedGorilla Music Fest, and over 200 artists participated in shows at venues on 6th Street in Austin, Texas. The next year RedGorilla hosted 300 bands, solo artists, and DJs and expanded the event to eight stages. The 2009, 2010, and 2011 festivals boasted over 500 artists on 11 stages, and the mission remains the same: To promote up-and-coming independent music in all genres and help independent artists further their careers. "Everyone's a VIP at RedGorilla," says RedGorilla co-founder, Brian Waymire. "When you step in to a RedGorilla show we want it to be a discovery point for new artists that otherwise might not have an opportunity to showcase."
 
RedGorilla Music Fest takes place during one of the most important music weeks of the year. The city of Austin, TX hosts the music industry's premier destination, and thousands of fans and industry professionals descend upon Austin to network and check out new talent. The festival has been an overwhelming success and continues to uphold its reputation as the cool, rebel showcase that caters to talented artists from all parts of the world! RedGorilla offers performance slots to bands, solo artists, and DJs so they can take advantage of this excellent opportunity. RedGorilla Music Fest prides itself on making these showcases the best experience possible for participating artists as well as their fans.
 
For the latest news, artist updates and more information visit: http://www.redgorillamusic.com
Wed, 03/06/2013 - 6:30 pm

After being featured on SPIN's Must Hear Music CD sampler with My Morning Jacket, OK Go, Dawes, Other Lives and more and getting frequent airtime on local New Jersey rock radio station, WRAT, New Jersey-based quintet, Owel (formerly known as Old Nick) are set to make their mark on 2013 with the release of their debut full-length on April 2nd. The self-titled album showcases the band's unique approach to instrumentation, which incorporates orchestral violins, cellos and glockenspiels, over traditional guitar, drums and bass, captivating the listener within a few notes.On the upcoming release, guitar/vocalist, Jay Sakong, says, ""Making this record was a strange combination of both liberating and confining. This being our first full-length record, it almost felt like the first day at a new school. We felt a great freedom to explore different sounds and songs however we saw fit. Without the concern of upholding any sort of previous reputation, we were truly free to express who we were in those moments. But at the same time, there was a bit of anxiety. After all, you only get one chance at a first impression. So although I enjoyed feeling unrestrained, I also wanted to make sure that everything was carefully crafted and thought out. Listening to it now, I would say (or at least hope) that it properly documents both our courageous explorations and our reserve." Although Jay and drummer Ryan Vargas grew up in the same county of Middlesex, New Jersey, it wasn't until late 2010 that the two would collaborate musically. It didn't take long before the two realized that they were on the verge of creating something special. During this time, Jay was attending the Institute of Audio Research in New York, and met fellow student and guitarist Seamus O'Connor. Before even hearing him play, Jay suggested that Seamus join him and Ryan in their new musical venture. He explains, "Seamus and I would both take the same train into the city, and we would just talk about music the whole time. I knew, (or at least seriously hoped) that we both understood what we wanted to create."After playing a few shows under the name Old Nick, they felt something was missing, not another guitar, but maybe something more organic. That's where violinist/keyboardist Jane Park would fit into the picture. A childhood friend of Jay's, Jane noticed that Old Nick was playing a set at her local Brooklyn venue, and decided to stop by, after years of lost contact. Again, even before hearing her play, Jay knew that she was the missing piece of the puzzle. He says, "She had just played a show herself, so she had this violin strapped to her back like a rifle." The band released an EP in 2012, "I've Seen Colors," but shortly after, set out on a search for new bass player. Pat McGee would become the final member of the quintet, who then took on the new name OwelOwel will release their self-titled full-length album on April 2nd.

Tue, 03/12/2013 - 2:24 pm

Capitol Records has acquired the exclusive DVD/Blu-ray rights to History of the Eagles, the iconic band's acclaimed documentary, which is set for release on Tuesday, April 30. This exceptional three-disc set includes History of the Eagles Part One and History of the Eagles Part Two, as well as Eagles Live At The Capital Centre - March 1977, featuring never-before-released performances from the Eagles' two-night stand at Washington, D.C.'s Capital Center during the legendary Hotel California tour.History of the Eagles will be released in both DVD and Blu-ray three-disc configurations - all with 5.1 Surround Sound and Stereo audio - beautifully packaged in a six-panel digipak with accompanying photographic booklet. A Super Deluxe Box Set will be released as a limited edition, complete with three Blu-ray discs; a 40-page casebound book featuring still photos from the films; 10 archival-quality photographs of the band from throughout its storied history; and a specially created lithograph of the band's desert-bleached skull icon. All elements in this limited edition deluxe set will be packaged in a specially designed foil-stamped and embossed box, with a Native American blanket-inspired liner, beautifully wrapped in a leather tie, and fastened with a bone button.All three versions of History of the Eagles will be available for preorder beginning today, March 12 through Amazon.com and the Eagles website.Seeking to provide an unprecedented and intimate look into the history of the band and the legacy of its music, the Eagles partnered with Academy Award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney (Taxi to the Dark Side, Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room) to produce the film. Directed by Alison Ellwood (Magic Trip: Ken Kesey's Search for a Kool Place), History of the Eagles is a meticulous creation featuring rare archival material, concert footage, and never-before-seen home movies that explore the evolution and enduring popularity of one of the world's biggest-selling and culturally significant American bands.History of the Eagles made its television broadcast debut on Showtime last month, earning the network its highest ratings for a music documentary in eight years. Part One premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January to great acclaim.History of the Eagles Part One dedicates two hours to the chronicling of the band's creation and rise to fame in the 1970's through its breakup in 1980. More than 25 new and exclusive interviews were conducted with all current band members -- Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit - as well as former members Bernie Leadon, Randy Meisner and Don Felder. Also featured are new and exclusive interviews with Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Kenny Rogers, Irving Azoff and many other seminal artists and band contemporaries who have been closely involved with the Eagles' history.While personal stories from band members, managers, and music industry luminaries frame the narrative, it's the unexpected moments-recording sessions, backstage interactions, and even a whimsical sequence from the Desperado cover shoot-that convey the extraordinary bond linking the artists, their music, and the times (an era when country-tinged rock and finely-honed harmonies spoke to a nation still reeling from unrest).Additionally, the documentary features previously unreleased home movies and archival footage. Personal photos, video and memorabilia amassed by the Eagles over the course of their career will also be seen for the very first time.  History of the Eagles Part Two reveals the personal and professional struggles members faced while the band was apart, and chronicles the group's dramatic reunion in 1994, as well as its resurgence in recording and performing throughout the next two decades. Among the band's many achievements since reforming are its triumphant Hell Freezes Over tour, the 2007 release of Long Road Out of Eden (which sold more than 5.5 million copies worldwide and earned two GRAMMY® Awards), and its ongoing ascendance as an international supergroup.Eagles Live at the Capital Centre - March 1977 features previously unreleased concert performances of "Hotel California," "New Kid In Town," "Take It To The Limit," "One Of These Nights," "Lyin' Eyes," "Rocky Mountain Way," "Best Of My Love" and "Take It Easy," all captured during the band's two-night stand in Washington, D.C. during its historic Hotel California world tour.  Directed by Alison Ellwood and produced by Alex Gibney, History of the Eagles was created with a select crew of filmmakers including: Blair Foster, Executive Producer; Alison Ellwood and Ben Sozanski, Editors; Karim Karmi, Co-Producer; and Erin Edeiken, Line Producer.The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earned five No. 1 U.S. singles and six GRAMMY® Awards.  Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling album of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units.  The band's Hotel California and Eagles Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 have sold more than 16 million and 11 million albums, respectively.  The Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.  For more information, visit the band's website at www.eaglesband.com.

Tue, 03/19/2013 - 11:50 am

JD & The Straight Shot announces today they will open for rock legend Joe Walsh, at The Paramount Theatre in Huntington, NY on Long Island on Monday, April 15th. Find out more about the show here.Founded by frontman Jim Dolan, JD & The Straight released their fourth studio album Midnight Run last summer. The album is a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music, produced by Kevin Killen (U2Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios.JD & The Straight Shot opened on tour for Joe Walsh in the summer of 2012 so the group was honored to be invited back, this time on their own turf in Dolan's hometown of Long Island.Aside from Walsh, the band has also toured with Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers Band, ZZ Top, Robert Randolph and more.Dolan formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. As Relix Magazine explains, "JD & The Straight Shot is more than a businessman's vanity project-it's legitimate band that continues to evolve."The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee), this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.comUpcoming Shows:Mar 23             MGM Grand w/ The Eagles                            Las Vegas, NVApr 15            The Paramount Theatre w/ Joe Walsh         Huntington, NYMay 4              New Orleans Jazz & Heratige Festival           New Orleans, LA WHO: JD & The Straight ShotWHERE: The Paramount | 370 New York Ave. | Huntington, NY 11743WHEN: Monday, April 15 | 8PM | $59-$125TICKETS: www.paramountny.com

Thu, 03/21/2013 - 10:45 am

The rock/fusion quartet TAUK announces today they will release their much-anticipated LP, Homunculus on Tuesday, April 30th. After the widespread acclaim from the group's first ever instrumental EP Pull Factors (2012) the NYC group joined forces yet again with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album. iTunes Pre-Order for Homunculus begins April 9th. For more info, visit: www.taukband.com.

TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on last summer's biggest festivals such as BonnarooThe Hangout Music FestivalSummer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest. and opening gigs for moe.Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music.

TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer,Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus. Jalbert explains, "This band has been through a lot, but we hit a point last year where it just felt like things were coming together the way they were supposed to. We really wanted this new album to be a statement as to what TAUK is all about."

With the new album's psychedelic title, Homunculus, TAUK aims to leave the interpretation of both the title and the music up to the listener. "Being an instrumental band leaves a lot of our music up to being interpreted in different ways," explains Jalbert.

Expanding on the album title's relationship to the band's recording process, Carter adds, "Homunculus has everything to do with how we as humans interpret ourselves and our surroundings. It acknowledges the inherent duality that exists between our mental and physical beings and to me that's where it relates to our creative process."

TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future is continuing to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.
TAUK will release Homunculus on April 30, 2013. Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Thu, 03/21/2013 - 2:52 pm

The roots/rock trio Mission South announces today they will release their sophomore 6-track EP Migration Vol. 2 on April 9th, 2013. This will be the second installment in their acclaimed 3-part Migration EP series. With a sound reminiscent of Dr. Dogand Ben Harper, Mission South goes beyond their blues-rock roots by adding a mixture of pop, folk, and modern tones while maintaining the soulful edge that makes their music so impactful. For more information and a free download of Vol. 1, visit: www.music.missionsouth.com.In the new EP, Mission South crafts six individual tracks that can firmly stand alone as impressive works, but when put together create an unparalleled cohesiveness - a metaphor for the band itself. Much of this focus on unity comes from the band's history. Members Dan Miller(guitar/vocals), John Beck (bass/vocals) and Max Harwood (drums) grew up together on the same street, attended grade school together and began playing music and writing songs together as early as middle school.While most bands call it quits when they head off to separate colleges, Mission South continued playing together whenever they possibly could. Even with members attending college in New Orleans, Virginia, and Vermont, the motivation to perform and write songs together stayed consistent.  "There would be times when we'd fly back from college, and instead of seeing our families first, we'd go straight to Max's to jam,"explains Miller.The first two years at college were productive for the trio as individual musicians, but the distance was hindering the band's progress as a live act. Recognizing their potential to draw college crowds with their infectious tunes, the band began traveling to each others colleges for weekends of non-stop shows, growing their fan base with every stint. By their senior year, Mission South was packing frat houses, selling out shows, and creating an impressive draw along the East Coast.Capitalizing on the momentum, the band hit the studio in the Spring of 2012 to record "Migration, Vol. 1" which quickly topped DC's Independent Music Download charts and later earned them a runner-up position on the DC Deli Magazine's Poll for 'Best Emerging Artist of 2012.'After graduating in May 2012, Mission South returned to D.C. with a newly invigorated focus and drive to transform their childhood dream into a professional endeavor. In less than a year since taking on the band full-time, Mission South has already shared the stage with Keller Williams,Holy Ghost Tent Revival, and Virginia Coalition to name a few and performed at iconic venues such as the 9:30 Club in D.C., The Howlin' Wolf in New Orleans, and will hit The Fox Theatre in Denver this Spring as part of a 50-date national tour in support of the new EP.Mission South will release Migration, Vol. 2 on April 9th.

Fri, 03/22/2013 - 1:36 pm

Brooklyn-based roots-rockers, The Hollows have announced that they will be releasing a live LP, NEVERENDING SHOW on April 23rd.  The full-length album includes nine tracks off their previous full-length release, Belong To The Land, performed at Brooklyn's premiere music venue, Brooklyn Bowl, in addition to two tracks off The Hollows EP, two covers ("The Weight" by The Band and "Loving Cup" by Rolling Stones) and three previously unreleased tracks. The band recently returned from this year's South By Southwest Festival, where their wildly energetic live shows garnered attention from tastemakers including The Wild Honey Pie, which featured The Hollows as one of their Thursday night highlights, http://bit.ly/ZX3RuH.The Hollows are a group of multi-instrumentalists; a freewheeling hootenany of a band. A veritable junkyard of mandolins, banjos, guitars, accordions, horns, harmonicas, and various other musical doodads are in constant rotation. With no frontman (or six frontmen), everyone writes and arranges material, creating a diverse and uniquely blended sound. The live show is a high-octane, unpredictable barn-burner. Check out the music video for August off their self-titled EP here. On the upcoming release and the band's recently launched fundraiser, band member David Paarlberg says, "The Hollows have a phrase we often find ourselves repeating: 'Together Together.'  It's something that's sort of stuck over the years and essentially what it means to us is to strive for a sense of ensemble; a genuine communion that's inclusive not only of the band but our audience as well-- the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  It's an invitation to dialogue and share something with everyone in the room, so it was important to us that we capture that energy and intimacy with a live LP. As we prepare to record our second full-length studio release, we want to make sure we're able to spread that message wider with national press, radio distribution, etc-- that's what this fundraiser is about; accomplishing that while continuing the connection with our fanbase-- it's essential to what we do, not just as artists, but as people."  Check out the band's PledgeMusic fundraiser here.The formation of The Hollows was a very gradual process. Erik Saxvik (Illinois), David Paarlberg (New Jersey), Jeffrey Kurtze (Indiana), and Daniel Kwiatkowski (Michigan) all studied theatre together in college during the mid-2000s. The four friends would spend many a night playing music in living rooms, bonding over their love of Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Tom Waits and all things strange and spooky; but it wasn't until the foursome relocated to New York City and met Rob Morrison (North Carolina) and Justin Aaronson (the only native New Yorker) that The Hollows sextet was finally complete.After receiving high praise such as The Deli Magazine's Artist of The Month, TimeOut NY's Critic's Pick, and rave reviews from The Huffington Post, CBS Radio, My Old Kentucky Blog, Relix, The Wild Honey Pie and more, The Hollows show no sign of slowing down in 2013.Tracklisting: 01. Canyon Rose02. Old Brown Dog03. Youngblood04. August05. Three Months/Three Years06. Basilica07. The Weight08. Copland's Hornpipe09. Josephine10. Mad As Dogs11. Sticks and Stones12. Jepson Creek13. Sycamore14. Dead Rabbits15. Loving Cup16. Whiskey and WineTogether Together Tour3/24 - New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge04/4 - New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall  (Stage 2)4/23 - Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl - Album Release Show5/17- Brooklyn, NY @ Littlefield w/ The Future Laureates, The Third Wheel Band, The Woes

Fri, 03/29/2013 - 3:56 pm

JD & The Straight Shot announces today they will open for rock legend Joe Walsh, at The Paramount Theatre in Huntington, NY on Long Island on Monday, April 15th. Find out more about the show here.Founded by frontman Jim Dolan, JD & The Straight released their fourth studio album Midnight Run last summer. The album is a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music, produced by Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios.JD & The Straight Shot opened on tour for Joe Walsh in the summer of 2012 so the group was honored to be invited back, this time on their own turf in Dolan's hometown of Long Island.Aside from Walsh, the band has also toured with Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers Band, ZZ Top, Robert Randolph and more.Dolan formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. As Relix Magazine explains, "JD & The Straight Shot is more than a businessman's vanity project-it's legitimate band that continues to evolve."The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee), this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.comUpcoming Shows:Apr 15            The Paramount Theatre w/ Joe Walsh                               Huntington, NYMay 1              Ruth Echerd Hall w/ Willie Nelson                                         Clearwater, FLMay 4              New Orleans Jazz & Heratige Festival                                 New Orleans, LAMay 8              Oakdale Theater w/ ZZ Top                                                   Wallingford, CTMay 9              Mayo Center for the Arts w/ ZZ Top                                       Morristown, NJMay 10            Southside Electric Cooperative's Hooper Park w/ ZZ Top    Crewe, VA

Tue, 04/09/2013 - 2:32 pm

The roots/rock trio from D.C. Mission South releases their sophomore EP, Migration Vol. 2 today, April 9, 2013 as an entirely free download at www.music.missionsouth.comThe full EP is now streaming on AOL Music (http://aol.it/12EkwKr) and MSN Music (http://on-msn.com/QnbIPC). Migration Vol. 2 is the second installment in Mission South's acclaimed 3-part Migration EP series. With a sound that ARTISTdirect compares to The Black Keys and Ben Harper, Mission South goes beyond their blues-rock roots by adding a mixture of pop, folk, and modern tones while maintaining their defining soulful edge.Mission South is currently on a Spring Tour in support of their EP release, with dates spanning from Vermont to New Orleans to Colorado and everywhere in between.  For full tour dates, see below or visit: www.missionsouth.com.In the new EP, Mission South crafts six individual tracks that can firmly stand alone as impressive works, but when put together create an unparalleled cohesiveness - a metaphor for the band itself. Much of this focus on unity comes from the band's history. Members Dan Miller (guitar/vocals), John Beck (bass/vocals) and Max Harwood (drums) grew up together on the same street, attended grade school together and began playing music and writing songs together as early as middle school. Another reason for Mission South's strong sense of camaraderie stems from the fact that during their high school and college years, the three often competed together in large scale eating competitions. Bassist John Beck still holds the records for most nachos consumed (in pounds) in one hour, for the 18 and under division.While most bands call it quits when they head off to separate colleges, Mission South continued playing together whenever they possibly could, even with members attending college in New Orleans, Virginia, and Vermont. When the band realized the distance was hindering the band's progress as a live act, they began traveling for weekends of non-stop shows in their college towns, growing the Mission South fan base with every stint and in one short year, packing frat houses, selling out shows, and creating an impressive draw along the East Coast.Capitalizing on the momentum, the band hit the studio in the Spring of 2012 to record "Migration, Vol. 1" which quickly topped DC's Independent Music Download charts and later earned them a runner-up position on the DC Deli Magazine's Poll for 'Best Emerging Artist of 2012.'After graduating in May 2012, Mission South returned to D.C. with a newly invigorated focus and drive to transform their childhood dream into a professional endeavor. In less than a year since taking on the band full-time, Mission South has already shared the stage with Keller Williams, Holy Ghost Tent Revival, and Virginia Coalition and performed at iconic venues such as the 9:30 Club in D.C., The Howlin' Wolf in New Orleans, and will hit The Fox Theatre in Denver and play Crawfest in New Orleans with headliner The Funky Meters this Spring as part of a 50-date national tour in support of the new EP.Mission South has released Migration, Vol. 2 today, April 9th, 2013. Please head to www.MissionSouth.com for more updates.Spring Tour Dates:Apr 9 -- Burlington, VT -- Nectar'sApr 10 -- New Haven, CT -- Stella BluesApr 11 -- New York, NY -- Sullivan HallApr 12 -- Annapolis, MD -- Red Red Wine BarApr 13 -- Washington, D.C. -- Bayou (Album Release Show)Apr 17 -- Raleigh, NC -- Deep South BarApr 18 -- Atlanta, GA -- Smith's Olde Bar Apr 19 -- Bay St. Louis, MS -- Mockingbird CaféApr 20 -- New Orleans, LA -- CRAWFEST @ Tulane University w/ The Funky MetersApr 22 -- Jackson, MS -- Sneaky BeansApr 23 -- Austin, TX -- Hole in the WallApr 24 -- Dallas, TX -- Opening BellApr 26 -- Boulder, CO -- The Fox TheatreMay 1 -- Chicago, IL -- Beat KitchenMay 2 -- Cleveland, OH -- TBAMay 3 -- Ithaca, NY -- The Haunt

Wed, 04/17/2013 - 8:53 am

The Village Voice is thrilled to announce the initial line-up today for its third annual free 4Knots Music Festival, being held on Saturday, June 29 from 1-8pm at South Street Seaport. Kurt Vile & The Violators, The Men, Parquet Courts and Marnie Stern are scheduled to performed, plus more to be announced.The Village Voice has also announced that the 4Knots Music Festival will once again feature a second outdoor stage. Announced earlier this month, the Official 4Knots Music Festival After Party will take place at The Music Hall of Williamsburg on June 29th, immediately following the festival. The lineup for this show and tickets will be available soon.The Village Voice's 4Knots Music Festival continues the Voice's 13-year history of curating free, live music showcases featuring the most renowned and emerging artists breaking through today's music scene. Running between every borough of New York City and culminating near the South Street Seaport, the East River runs at a speed of "4 knots".Bud Light returns to the 4Knots Music Festival as the presenting sponsor. Additional 2013 sponsors include, Side.Car, Getty Images, Urban Ears, Marshall Headphones, Qdoba, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, A List Event Company and smartwater.For more information on The 4 Knots Music Festival, please visit: www.villagevoice.com/4KnotsFollow us online for further updates and announcements: www.twitter.com/4knotsfest & www.facebook/4knots.

Wed, 04/17/2013 - 1:34 pm

JD & The Straight Shot gives ARTISTdirect an exclusive peek into the band's recent rehearsal at Sear Sound Studios in NYC! Watch JD & Straight Shot's bluesy/down-home rendition of "Pink Cadillac" by Bruce Springsteen, herehttp://bit.ly/12mUuJm.

Founded by frontman Jim Dolan, JD & The Straight released their fourth studio album Midnight Run last summer. The album is a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music, produced by Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios.

JD & The Straight Shot has toured with Joe Walsh and Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers Band, ZZ Top, Robert Randolph and more.

Dolan formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. As Relix Magazine explains, "JD & The Straight Shot is more than a businessman's vanity project-it's legitimate band that continues to evolve."

The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee) - this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).

Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/jdandthestraightshot

YouTube:     http://www.youtube.com/jdstraightshot

Upcoming Shows:

May 1

With Willie Nelson @ Ruth Eckerd Hall

Clearwater, FL

May 4 

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

New Orleans, LA

May 8

With ZZ Top @ Toyota Presents Oakdale Theatre

Wallingford, CT

May 9

With ZZ Top @ Mayo Performing Arts Center

Morristown, NJ

May 10

With ZZ Top @ Southside Electric Cooperative's
Hooper Park

Crewe, VA

 

Tue, 04/30/2013 - 11:29 am

The rock/fusion quartet TAUK releases their much-anticipated LP, Homunculus today, April 30. In celebration of the release, both MSN Music and GuitarWorld are streaming the album in full all week. The NYC group joined forces with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album. Purchase "Homunculus" on iTunes Today.TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on last summer's biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest.and opening gigs for moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music.TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus. Jalbert explains, "This band has been through a lot, but we hit a point last year where it just felt like things were coming together the way they were supposed to. We really wanted this new album to be a statement as to what TAUK is all about."With the new album's psychedelic title, Homunculus, TAUK aims to leave the interpretation of both the title and the music up to the listener. "Being an instrumental band leaves a lot of our music up to being interpreted in different ways," explains Jalbert.TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future is continuing to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.TAUK has released Homunculus today, April 30, 2013. Please head to www.taukband.com for more updates.

Wed, 05/01/2013 - 2:07 pm

Capitol Records has acquired the exclusive DVD/Blu-ray rights to History of the Eagles, the iconic band's acclaimed documentary, which is set for release on Tuesday, April 30. This exceptional three-disc set includes History of the Eagles Part One and History of the Eagles Part Two, as well as Eagles Live At The Capital Centre - March 1977, featuring never-before-released performances from the Eagles' two-night stand at Washington, D.C.'s Capital Center during the legendary Hotel California tour.History of the Eagles will be released in both DVD and Blu-ray three-disc configurations - all with 5.1 Surround Sound and Stereo audio - beautifully packaged in a six-panel digipak with accompanying photographic booklet. A Super Deluxe Box Set will be released as a limited edition, complete with three Blu-ray discs; a 40-page casebound book featuring still photos from the films; 10 archival-quality photographs of the band from throughout its storied history; and a specially created lithograph of the band's desert-bleached skull icon. All elements in this limited edition deluxe set will be packaged in a specially designed foil-stamped and embossed box, with a Native American blanket-inspired liner, beautifully wrapped in a leather tie, and fastened with a bone button.All three versions of History of the Eagles will be available for preorder beginning today, March 12 through Amazon.com and the Eagles website.Seeking to provide an unprecedented and intimate look into the history of the band and the legacy of its music, the Eagles partnered with Academy Award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney (Taxi to the Dark Side, Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room) to produce the film. Directed by Alison Ellwood (Magic Trip: Ken Kesey's Search for a Kool Place), History of the Eagles is a meticulous creation featuring rare archival material, concert footage, and never-before-seen home movies that explore the evolution and enduring popularity of one of the world's biggest-selling and culturally significant American bands.History of the Eagles made its television broadcast debut on Showtime last month, earning the network its highest ratings for a music documentary in eight years. Part One premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January to great acclaim.History of the Eagles Part One dedicates two hours to the chronicling of the band's creation and rise to fame in the 1970's through its breakup in 1980. More than 25 new and exclusive interviews were conducted with all current band members -- Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit - as well as former members Bernie Leadon, Randy Meisner and Don Felder. Also featured are new and exclusive interviews with Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Kenny Rogers, Irving Azoff and many other seminal artists and band contemporaries who have been closely involved with the Eagles' history.  While personal stories from band members, managers, and music industry luminaries frame the narrative, it's the unexpected moments-recording sessions, backstage interactions, and even a whimsical sequence from the Desperado cover shoot-that convey the extraordinary bond linking the artists, their music, and the times (an era when country-tinged rock and finely-honed harmonies spoke to a nation still reeling from unrest).Additionally, the documentary features previously unreleased home movies and archival footage. Personal photos, video and memorabilia amassed by the Eagles over the course of their career will also be seen for the very first time.  History of the Eagles Part Two reveals the personal and professional struggles members faced while the band was apart, and chronicles the group's dramatic reunion in 1994, as well as its resurgence in recording and performing throughout the next two decades. Among the band's many achievements since reforming are its triumphant Hell Freezes Over tour, the 2007 release of Long Road Out of Eden (which sold more than 5.5 million copies worldwide and earned two GRAMMY® Awards), and its ongoing ascendance as an international supergroup.Eagles Live at the Capital Centre - March 1977 features previously unreleased concert performances of "Hotel California," "New Kid In Town," "Take It To The Limit," "One Of These Nights," "Lyin' Eyes," "Rocky Mountain Way," "Best Of My Love" and "Take It Easy," all captured during the band's two-night stand in Washington, D.C. during its historic Hotel California world tour.  Directed by Alison Ellwood and produced by Alex Gibney, History of the Eagles was created with a select crew of filmmakers including: Blair Foster, Executive Producer; Alison Ellwood and Ben Sozanski, Editors; Karim Karmi, Co-Producer; and Erin Edeiken, Line Producer.The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earned five No. 1 U.S. singles and six GRAMMY® Awards.  Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling album of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units.  The band's Hotel California and Eagles Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 have sold more than 16 million and 11 million albums, respectively.  The Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.  For more information, visit the band's website at www.eaglesband.com.

Wed, 05/15/2013 - 9:07 am

JD & The Straight Shot gives ARTISTdirect an exclusive peek into the band's recent rehearsal at Sear Sound Studios in NYC! Watch JD & Straight Shot's bluesy/down-home rendition of "Pink Cadillac" by Bruce Springsteen.

Founded by frontman Jim Dolan, JD & The Straight released their fourth studio album Midnight Run last summer. The album is a finely crafted collection of New Orleans-flavored roots music, produced by Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios.

JD & The Straight Shot has toured with Joe Walsh and Don Henley and played with The Eagles, Allman Brothers Band, ZZ Top, Robert Randolph and more.

Dolan formed JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. His day job is President and CEO of Cablevision and Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. where he also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. As Relix Magazine explains, "JD & The Straight Shot is more than a businessman's vanity project-it's legitimate band that continues to evolve."

The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee) - this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).

Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

Thu, 05/16/2013 - 7:52 am

The rock/fusion quartet TAUK announces they will return to the stage with the legendary group, Robert Randolph & The Family Band for three select dates this summer. The shows are set for Aug. 2 at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., Aug. 9 at The Wilbur Theatre in Boston, and Aug 10 at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY. Along with these dates, TAUK will also hit the music festival circuit this summer playing Summer Camp, Floyd Fest, Destination Moon Fest, MazFest, and more! For tickets and more information, visit: www.taukband.com.

These tour announcements come following the release of TAUK's new LP, Homunculus, released on April 30. The band teamed up with GuitarWorld (http://bit.ly/GWtauk) the exclusively stream the entire album. The NYC group worked with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album. Purchase "Homunculus" on iTunes Today.

TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on last summer's biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest.and opening gigs for moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music: http://bit.ly/TAUKindab

TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus. Jalbert explains, "This band has been through a lot, but we hit a point last year where it just felt like things were coming together the way they were supposed to. We really wanted this new album to be a statement as to what TAUK is all about."

TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future is continuing to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.

Upcoming Shows:

May 17

Brooklyn, NY

Spike Hill

May 18

West Chester, PA

The Social Lounge w/ Steppin' Razor

May 26

Chillicothe, IL

Summer Camp Music Festival

May 28

St. Louis, MO

Gramophone Live

May 30

Columbia, MO

The Bridge

May 31

Chicago, IL

Tonic Room

Jun 22

New York, NY

Rockwood Music Hall

Jun 28

Frederick, MD

Cafe 611 w/ Ultraviolet Hippopotamus

Jul 19-20

Chatham, NY

Destination Moon Festival w/ Marco Benevento

Jul 25

Floyd, VA

Floyd Fest

Jul 27

Richmond, VA

The Camel w/ The Shack Band

Aug 2

Washington, D.C. 

9:30 Club w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Aug 3

Roscoe, NY

MazFest Music Festival

Aug 9

Boston, MA

The Wilbur Theatre w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Aug 10

Port Chester, NY

Capitol Theatre w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

 

Tue, 05/28/2013 - 10:54 am

Sleeping With Sirens has turned into a monster of a band.  With two full lengths and an EP under their belts, they have sold in excess of 260,000 albums to date, over 95 million views on official YouTube videos and numerous sold out tours both in the US and most recently their UK run which saw venues being upgraded twice over in a matter of days.  The band is currently gearing up to return to Warped Tour for a 2nd summer in a row, headlining Main Stage. The band is currently streaming their new album "Feel" in its entirety right here: http://bit.ly/15bar5d. The bands third album "Feel", out June 4th on Rise Records, is one of the most anticipated releases in the rock world and their best material yet.  Teaming up with Cameron Mizell, who they worked with on their previous full length, and enlisting Dan Korneff (My Chemical Romance, Mayday Parade) and mastered by Ted Jensen (Green Day, Bon Jovi, The Offspring) to complete the team creating the album,  Sleeping With Sirens have been able to deliver an album that is not only their most heartfelt, but also sonically more superior than anything they've done to date. With Tracks like the huge sounding "Alone" (featuring rapper MGK), to hard hitting anthems like "Congratulations" (featuring Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire), this band continues to evolve and impress."Feel" is sure to instantly please their current fans whilst wining over countless others making them a worldwide success. The first single "Low" is available on iTunes as an instant download when the album is pre-ordered. Pre-order bundles will be available online on the Rise Records store: www.riserecordsstore.com. The band charted Top 10 Most Viral Tracks on Spotify #4 in the UK & #7 in the US!Sleeping With Sirens was formed in 2009. The Grand Rapids, Michigan based groups first album for Rise Records, With Ears To See And Eyes To Hear, debuted in March 2010 at #7 on Billboard's "Top Heatseekers" chart, and at #36 on "Top Independent Albums." The bands second album, Let's Cheers To This Released in May 2011, the record peaked at #78 on Billboard's "Top 200" chart, as well as #13 on "Top Independent Albums" and #5 in "Hard Rock." On June 26, 2012 the band released their first Acoustic EP, "If You Were a Movie, This Would Be Your Soundtrack".Sleeping With Sirens and Rise Records have a social media reach of 1,456,580+ Facebook Likes, 1,148,800+ Twitter Followers, 614,667+ Instagram Followers, and 502,414+ YouTube subscribers.Sleeping With Sirens are:Kellin Quinn - Vocals / Jack Fowler - Lead Guitar / Jesse Lawson - Rhythm Guitar /Justin Hills - Bass / Gabe Barham - Drums"FEEL" TRACKLISTING & ARTWORK1. Feel2. Here We Go3. Free Now4. Alone (FEAT. MGK)5. I'll Take You There (FEAT. Shayley Bourget)6. The Best There Ever Was7. Low8. Congratulations (FEAT. Matty Mullins)9. Deja Vu10. These Things I've Done11. Sorry12. SatellitesUK HEADLINE TOUR 2013Jun 1 Southampton Talking Heads SOLD OUTVans Warped Tour 2013:Sat June 15                 White River Amphitheatre                              Seattle, WASun June 16                Portland Expo Center                                     Portland, ORWed June 19               Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre                      San Diego, CAThurs June 20             Pomona Fairplex                                            Pomona, CAFri June 21                  Pomona Fairplex                                            Pomona, CASat June 22                 Shoreline Amphitheatre                                  Mountain View, CASun June 23                Seaside Park                                                  Ventura, CAWed June 26               NMSU Practice Field                                      Las Cruces, NMThur June 27               Quail Run Park                                               Phoenix, AZFri June 28                  Silverton Casino                                              Las Vegas, NVSat June 29                 Utah State Fairpark                                        Salt Lake City, UTSun June 30                Sports Authority Field at Mile High                  Denver, COWed Jul 3                    Klipsch Music Center                                     Indianapolis, INFri Jul 5                       Molson Canadian Amphitheatre                     Toronto, ONSat Jul 6                      Darien Lake Performing Arts Center              Buffalo, NYSun Jul 7                     PNC Bank Arts Center                                   Holmdel, NJTues Jul 9                   Farm Bureau Live                                           Virginia Beach, VAWed Jul 10                  Merriweather Post Pavilion                            Columbia, MDThur Jul 11                  Comcast Center                                             Boston, MAFri Jul 12                     Susquehanna Bank Center                            Camden, NJSat Jul 13                    Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum            Uniondale, NYSun Jul 14                   Comcast Theatre                                            Hartford, CTTues Jul 16                 Toyota Pavilion                                                Scranton, PAWed Jul 17                  First Niagara Pavilion                                      Pittsburgh, PAThur Jul 18                  Blossom Music Center                                   Cleveland, OHFri Jul 19                     The Palace of Auburn Hills                              Detroit, MISat Jul 20                    First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre                   Chicago, ILSun Jul 21                   Canterbury Park                                             Minneapolis, MNTues Jul 23                 Cricket Wireless Amphitheater                       Kansas City, KSWed Jul 24                  Verizon Wireless Amphitheater                      St. Louis, MOThur Jul 25                  Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood                Atlanta GAFri Jul 26                     Vinoy Park                                                       Tampa, FLSat Jul 27                    Cruzan Amphitheatre                                      West Palm Beach, FLFri July 28                   Central Florida Fairgrounds                            Orlando, FLMon Jul 29                  Charlotte Verizon Wireless                             Charlotte, NCTues Jul 30                 Riverbend Music Center                                 Cincinnati, OHWed Jul 31                  Marcus Amphitheater                                     Milwaukee, WIFri Aug 2                     Gexa Energy Pavilion                                      Dallas, TXSat Aug 3                    AT&T Center                                                   San Antonio, TXSun Aug 4                   Reliant Center                                                  Houston, TX

Wed, 06/12/2013 - 2:18 pm

The Village Voice is proud to announce new additions to both its annual free 4Knots Music Festival and Official 4Knots After Party. The 4Knots Music Festival, being held on Saturday, June 29 from 1-8pm at South Street Seaport, welcomes Hunters to their previously announced festival lineup of Kurt Vile & The Violators, The Men, Parquet Courts, White Lung, Marnie Stern, Reigning Sound, The Babies, Fat Tony, and Heliotropes. The sold-out After Party will be held at The Music Hall of Williamsburg immediately following the daytime 4Knots Music Festival and will now feature special guests Clams Casino and Keyboard Kid along with previously announced headliner Lil B.Also announced today, the official 4Knots Music Festival store is open at www.villagevoice.com/4knots featuring limited edition festival merchandise. 4Knots t-shirts and tote bags are available in advance of the festival online. 4Knots store will also be onsite at Pier 17 the day of the festival.Like in the past, this year's 4Knots Music Festival will feature two outdoor stages on Pier 17 & Pier 16. The Village Voice's 4Knots Music Festival continues the Voice's 13-year history of curating free, live music showcases featuring the most renowned and emerging artists breaking through today's music scene. Running between every borough of New York City and culminating near the South Street Seaport, the East River runs at a speed of "4 knots."Bud Light returns to the 4Knots Music Festival as the presenting sponsor. Additional 2013 sponsors include, GroupMe, Zuus Media, Metro PCS, Getty Images Music, The City University of New York, Marshall Headphones, Qdoba, Panda Diplomacy, Bettie Page, New York Health & Racquet Club, Seamless.com, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, A List Event Company, zico, Los Perros Locos, Runa, Seaport Music Festival, Filter Magazine, Hot 97 and Volvic.For more information on The 4 Knots Music Festival, please visit: www.villagevoice.com/4KnotsFollow us online for further updates and announcements: www.twitter.com/4knotsfest & www.facebook/4knots.About Village Voice Events:The Village Voice has independently produced and created such celebrated events as the Choice Eats, Obies Awards, 4Knots Music Festival, Choice Streets, Web Awards, Brooklyn Pour, as well as the most anticipated issues and guides of the year including the annual Pazz and Jop music poll, Best of NYC, and its Spring, Summer, and Fall Preview guides. The Voice is New York's most influential must-read alternative newspaper in print and online. For more information on the Voice or its events, please visit us online at www.villagevoice.com.

Fri, 06/21/2013 - 10:27 am

Blues-rock band JD & The Straight Shot have announced that they will be opening for music legends the Eagles on the "History of the Eagles" tour this July. The tour kicks off on July 6 in Louisville, KY with 12 concerts scheduled through July 25. In celebration of the release of the Eagles' documentary, History of the Eagles, which made its television broadcast debut on Showtime last month, the Eagles with opener JD & The Straight Shot will perform concerts in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Cleveland, Ohio; Toronto, Ontario; Grand Falls Windsor, Newfoundland; Ottawa, Ontario; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Uncasville, Connecticut; Boston, Massachusetts; Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Bethel, New York. For tickets and more information, visit: www.thestraightshotmusic.com.

Frontman Jim Dolan founded JD & The Straight Shot in 2000 with friends from the office. Dolan works as President and CEO of Cablevision, Executive Chairman of Madison Square Garden, Inc. and also oversees New York sports teams such as the Knicks and the Rangers. Although it began as a side project, JD & The Straight Shot has migrated in a new direction over the past several years - recording and touring heavily to promote their new unique sound and new members. Relix Magazine explains, "JD & The Straight Shot is more than a businessman's vanity project - it's a legitimate band that continues to evolve."

The band's creative nucleus is Dolan, guitarist Marc Copely (B.B. King), and guitarist Adam Levy (Norah Jones, Amos Lee) - this trio pens all the band's music and lyrics. Instrumentally indispensible is keyboardist Brian Mitchell (Bob Dylan, Levon Helm) who also adds harmonica and accordion to the sonic stew. Rounding out the band are some of pop music's finest session players, drummer Shawn Pelton (Rod Stewart, Pink, Daryl Hall, Buddy Guy), bassist Zev Katz (Aretha Franklin, Elton John), and violinist Lorenza Ponce (Sheryl Crow, Ben Folds, Bon Jovi).

JD & The Straight Shot is no stranger to playing with impressive headliners as they have already opened for Eagles' members Joe Walsh and Don Henley as well as ZZ Top and Willie Nelson this past spring. The band has also played with musical greats such as the The Allman Brothers Band, Robert Randolph and more.

With the release of their fourth studio album last summer, JD & The Straight Shot continues to showcase their signature bluesy sound while incorporating distinct New Orleans root influence. The album, Midnight Run, was produced by Kevin Killen (U2Peter Gabriel) at New York's famed Avatar Studios

Check out more on JD & The Straight Shot here: www.thestraightshotmusic.com

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/jdandthestraightshot

YouTube:     http://www.youtube.com/jdstraightshot

History of the Eagles Tour Dates:

Saturday, July 6

KFC YUM! Center   

Louisville, KY

Sunday, July 7

Summerfest

Milwaukee, WI

Tuesday, July 9

Quicken Loans Arena

Cleveland, OH

Thursday, July 11

Air Canada Centre

Toronto, ON

Saturday, July 13

Salmon Festival 2013

Grand Falls Windsor, NFLD

Monday, July 15

Scotiabank Place

Ottowa, ON

Tuesday, July 16

Wells Fargo Center

Philadelphia, PA

Thursday, July 18

Mohegan Sun

Uncasville, CT

Friday, July 19

Comcast Center

Mansfield, MA

Monday, July 22

Verizon Center

Washington, D.C.

Tuesday, July 23

Consol Energy Center

Pittsburgh, PA

Thursday, July 25

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel, NY

 

Fri, 06/21/2013 - 11:59 am

In anticipation of the release of their 5th studio album, Ballyhoo! surprised their fans today with a full album stream of Pineapple Grenade via ARTISTdirect - one week prior to the official release on June 25th. Check out the full album streaming exclusively on ARTISTdirect, here: http://bit.ly/PGartistd.

Pre-order Pineapple Grenade on iTunes for digital copies and on Ballyhoo!'s website www.ballyhoorocks.com for physical copies. iTunes pre-order includes 2 bonus tracks and physical pre-order includes 1 free song and t-shirt bundling options.

The new 14-track album is a step forward for the band in many ways, including a new track produced by Rome Ramirez (Sublime with Rome) and mixed by Paul Leary (U2, Sublime).

Alongside the album release, Ballyhoo! is currently co-headlining the 2013 Summer Sickness Tour with Authority Zero and special guests Versus The World. The 2-month trek kicked off on May 31 in Tempe, AZ and includes 40+ shows across 27 states spanning from California to Canada to Florida.

Pineapple Grenade is Ballyhoo!'s first new album since releasing Daydreams in the Fall of 2011, which debuted at #1 on the iTunes Reggae Charts and #4 on Amazon. The success of Daydreams led the band to navigate their most successful year yet, playing 166 shows in 2012 including the Vans Warped Tour, the 311 Caribbean Cruise in 2012 and 2013, Bamboozle, and a national tour with Tribal Seeds. Ballyhoo!'s fanbase continues to grow through steadfast touring, leading to the band to reach #1 on SiriusXM Faction.

Ballyhoo!'s relaxed sound mixed with the band's energetic performance style has been gaining a reputation on the national alternative radio scene as well. Highlights of Ballyhoo!'s radio play include: HFS Baltimore, WWDC Washington DC, SiriusXM Faction, WRFF Philadelphia, KUCD Honolulu, KRAB Bakersfield, WEND Charlotte, WARQ Columbia, KITS San Francisco, WJRR Orlando, WRKN New Orleans, KFMA Tucson, WRRV Hudson Valley, WXDX Pittsburgh, WSUN Tampa, and KDJE Little Rock.

Ballyhoo! will release Pineapple Grenade on June 25th. For details, visit: www.ballyhoorocks.com.

How to make a "Pineapple Grenade" Shot:

**Video instructions from the band: http://bit.ly/HowToPG

1 oz Malibu Coconut Rum

1/2 oz Stoli Vanilla Vodka

1/2 oz Pineapple Juice

Splash of Sprite

Shake with ice and pour into a shot glass. Dash of Grenadine in the middle. 

 

Track Listing:

01. She Wants to Destroy Me 

02. Battle Cry

03. Take It Easy 

04. No Good (prod. by Rome Ramirez)

05. Run

06. Things We Don't Mean

07. Instigator 

08. Beautiful Day

09. When They Told Me

10. Lost at Sea

11. Outta My Mind

12. A Lesson in Gravity

13. Wasting Away

14. Morning Sunlight

15. Love Letters (iTunes bonus track)

16. Tell My Son (iTunes bonus track)

 

Check out more on Ballyhoo! here:

www.Facebook.com/Ballyhoo

www.Twitter.com/Ballyhoo_MD

www.YouTube.com/BallyhooRock

www.Instagram.com/Ballyhooagram

 

  

Summer Sickness Tour w/ Authority Zero:

Jun 19

Granada Theater 

Lawrence, KS 

Jun 20

Firebird 

St. Louis, MO

Jun 21

Reggies Rock Club

Chicago, IL

Jun 22

Peabody's 

Cleveland, OH

Jun 23

Lee's Palace 

Toronto, ON

Jun 25

Brighton Music Hall 

Boston, MA

Jun 26

Fete 

Providence, RI

Jun 27

Gramercy Theatre

New York, NY

Jun 28

Hard Rock Cafe

Philadelphia, PA

Jun 29

Rams Head Live 

Baltimore, MD

Jun 30

Stone Pony 

Asbury Park, NJ

Jul 2

Kelly's 

Nags Head, NC

Jul 3

Seacret's

Ocean City, MD

Jul 5

Jewish Mother 

Virginia Beach, VA

Jul 7** 

Boathouse 

Myrtle Beach, SC

Jul 9

Masquerade 

Atlanta, GA

Jul 10

The Freebird 

Jacksonville, FL

Jul 11

The Beacham 

Orlando, FL

Jul 12

Jannus Live

St. Petersburg, FL

Jul 13

Beach Bash 

Satellite Beach, FL

Jul 14

Propaganda - Summer Daze 

Lake Worth, FL

Jul 16

Vinyl   

Pensacola, FL

Jul 17

Varsity Theatre

Baton Rouge, LA

Jul 18

Scout Bar 

Houston, TX

Jul 19

Trees 

Dallas, TX

Jul 20

House of Rock 

Corpus Christi, TX

Jul 21

Stubb's Jr 

Austin, TX

Jul 23

Jacks 

San Antonio, TX

Jul 24

Tricky Falls 

El Paso, TX

Jul 25

The Launchpad  

Albuquerque, NM

Jul 26

Orpheum Theatre 

Flagstaff, AZ

Jul 27

The Hut  

Tucson, AZ 

 

** Ballyhoo! Only

Tue, 07/02/2013 - 1:58 pm

After 5 years, 400+ shows, and four award-winning albums, New Jersey-based 21 year-old singer/songwriter Quincy Mumford is set to release his fifth album, Its Only Change, with Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why onJuly 30th, 2013. Its Only Change was recorded in Nashville, TN with producer Ken Coomer (Wilco, Uncle Tupelo) and features performances from Jerry Roe (K.D. Lang), David Labruyere (John Mayer) and Aubrey Freed (Black Crowes, Sheryl Crow). Producer Ken Coomer, states, "Quincy Mumford is a true artist that can bring raw 70's style rock and funk highlighted with the voice of an old soul, it's a perfect blend." For more information, please visit: www.QuincyMumford.com.

Consisting of Quincy Mumford (Guitar/Lead Vox), Brian Gearty (Bass/Vox), Karlee Bloomfield (Keys/Vox), Mike Zdeb(Guitar/Vox), and Davide Vossel (Drums), Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why are excited to continue their tireless performance schedule which has found them sharing the stage with the likes of Slightly Stoopid, Rusted Root, moe., Donovan Frankenreiter, Tedeschi Trucks Band and performing at major music festivals such as, The Gathering of the Vibes and Musikfest. Quincy and the band also volunteer their time for The Surfrider Foundation and hold other environmental causes close to their collective hearts. In addition, Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why have seen great placement success with "Now that I Met You" presented in a Walt Disney World commercialand music featured on ESPNU, "Inside the Big East" television program.

Its Only Change displays many different emotions and musical stylings including rock, soul, jazz, funk and hip-hop. Quincy tells us, "This record is like nothing I have ever done before. For the first time, I was able to mesh all of my influences into one complete piece of work." Several different life-changing experiences during the past year have provided Quincy with an array of lyrical content to complement the expansive sonic approach to Its Only Change.

Its Only Change opens with "Change", the final song written for the album completed during pre-production in Nashville with Coomer. The album title draws from the song name and speaks towards a new musical direction for Quincy and the band. "Time Won't Wait"explores a young man's struggle with accepting reality and features an emotionally charged refrain with heavy jazz/R&B inspired verses."Under the Covers" funky bass and driving drumbeat draw the listener in and "Eventually", an introspective ballad, speaks to a need for a simpler life. "A Hard Place", the first single on the album, is a bouncy, energetic reggae inspired metaphor for feeling small in this world.

Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why's 2012 release, Live At The Saint, captures the band's live sound featuring songs from Quincy's three previous studio albums.   Quincy shares, "after recording Live at the Saint, I was ready to take on a new challenge" as evidenced on Its Only Change. The Live at The Saint DVD includes footage from the concert shot on multiple cameras, interviews with the band, scenic cinematography and a documentary featuring Quincy and the band members' musical getaway and adventures in the mountains of Vermont. The film was directed, edited, and filmed by Quincy's award winning brother, Kyle Mumford, and his Lifted Pictures' film crew. To purchase the DVD, please visit: http://www.quincymumford.com/quincy-mumford-store

Optimistic, charismatic, and undeniably genuine, Quincy's music possesses the same "feel good" attitude that the young man himself does. Its Only Change establishes Quincy Mumford and The Reason Why as a "Band to Watch" in 2013!

Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why will release their new album, It's Only Change, on July 30th, 2013.

Track Listing:

01. Change

02. For You

03. Under The Covers

04. When You Get Back

05. A Hard Place

06. Time Won't Wait

07. Eventually

08. Madeline

09. No Love

10. Baby Don't Go

 

 

Tour Dates:

7/4                          Bar 145                                                                    Kent, OH

7/6                          Urban Nest - CD RELEASE SHOW                      Asbury Park, NJ

7/14                        Porta                                                                        Asbury Park, NJ

7/20                       Blues On The Beach                                                Stratford, CT

8/2                         Acoustic Café                                                           Bridgeport, CT

8/7                         Sandy Hook Beach Concert                                    Sandy Hook, NJ

8/10                       Jamian's                                                                   Red Bank, NJ

8/14                        Orton's                                                                     Wilmington, NC

8/22                       The Funky Buddha                                                  Boca Raton, FL

8/27                       The Hummingbird                                                   Macon, GA

8/29                       Southern Rail                                                           Carrboro, NC

Thu, 07/18/2013 - 4:18 pm

The rock/fusion quartet TAUK announces today they will hit the road this August and September to play select cities in the Midwest to support of their latest LP, Homunculus, released April 30th. TAUK will play in St.Louis, Missouri; Columbia, Missouri; Urbana, Illinois; Chicago, Illinois; Ann Arbor, Michigan; Columbus, Ohio; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and more to be announced soon.  The NYC group joined forces with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album. For tickets and more information on the new album, visit: www.taukband.com.

TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on last summer's biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival and The Allman Brother's Peach Fest and opening gigs for moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Perpetual Groove, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green and Toubab Krewe. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music: http://bit.ly/TAUKindab

TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus. Jalbert explains, "This band has been through a lot, but we hit a point last year where it just felt like things were coming together the way they were supposed to. We really wanted this new album to be a statement as to what TAUK is all about.

With the new album's psychedelic title, Homunculus, TAUK aims to leave the interpretation of both the title and the music up to the listener. "Being an instrumental band leaves a lot of our music up to being interpreted in different ways," explains Jalbert. 

TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future is continuing to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.

Summer/Fall Shows:

Summer/Fall Shows:

Jul 18

Brooklyn, NY

Spike Hill

Jul 19

East Jewett, NY

Bellstock 20

Jul 25

Floyd, VA

Floyd Fest

Jul 27

Richmond, VA

The Camel w/ The Shack Band

Aug 1 Baltimore, MD The 8x10 w/ Pigeons Playing Ping Pong

Aug 2

Washington, D.C.

9:30 Club w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Aug 3

Roscoe, NY

MazFest Music Festival

Aug 9

Boston, MA

The Wilbur Theatre w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Aug 10

Port Chester, NY

Capitol Theatre w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Aug 15

Scranton, PA

Peach Music Festival

Aug 28

St. Louis, MO

The Gramophone w/ Acoustics Anonymous

Aug 29

Columbia, MO

The Bridge w/ Acoustics Anonymous

Aug 30

Chicago, IL

Cubby Bear w/ Spread and Acoustics Anonymous

Aug 31

Urbana, IL

The Canopy Club w/ Acoustics Anonymous

Sep 4

Ann Arbor, MI

Woodruff's

Sep 5

Columbus, OH

Woodland's

Sep 6

Cleveland, OH

TBA

Sep 7

Pittsburgh, PA

Mullen's Bar & Grill

 

Tue, 08/20/2013 - 7:25 pm

Saddle Creek veteran, Maria Taylor, has announced plans to release a new album, "Something About Knowing,on October 29th. While Maria has already gained widespread recognition as one-half of the dream-pop duo Azure Ray, released four solo albums and an EP and collaborated with esteemed musicians including Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes), Michael Stipe (R.E.M.), Jim Eno (Spoon) and Moby, her prolific career has only scratched the surface of what the Alabama-based artist has to say. Her first release after becoming a mother, the aptly titled "Something About Knowing," is the critically acclaimed artist's most assured record yet - celebrating her folk, pop and electronic lineages with the casual grace and confident ease that comes with parenthood. For more information, visit: http://saddle-creek.com/mariataylor/.Singer-songwriter Maria Taylor puts forth a centered album that glows with the wonder and awe-of self-discovery on her upcoming release. "In the past, I wrote when I was sad or depressed, this was the first time I wrote songs when I wasn't sad. If there were tears in my life, they were happy tears," She says with a good-natured laugh. "There were happy tears. A lot of the big life questions are answered. I now know what tomorrow is going to bring."Maria began her professional music career at 15 with alt-rock pioneers Little Red Rocket in the mid 1990s. After two albums with that band, Maria went onto Azure Ray (also featuring Little Red Rocket co-vocalist Orenda Fink) which remains active a decade in. In addition to lending her voice for numerous Bright Eyes records, most notably the gold-certified, "I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning," Maria also played piano and drums on several of their recordings, and toured around the world playing drums with the band.In 2005, Maria announced her solo career, a new adventure that would allow her to explore a new earthy sensibility and transcendent synthetic soundscapes with renowned artists such as Jim Eno (Spoon), Michael Stipe (R.E.M.), MobyDoug Easley (Cat Power, Pavement), David Barbe (Sugar, Drive-By Truckers, Son Volt) Crooked Fingers, as well as continuing to collaborate with Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes). Her songs have been featured on Unforgettable, Suburgatory, Private PracticeBonesGrey's Anatomy (one episode was named after her song), Greek and One Tree Hill. As a performer, she's shared the stage with such respected and diverse artists as Midlake, Ben Lee, Jimmy Eat World, Josh Rouse ,Joshua RadinJason Isbell and has an upcoming show with Jim James (My Morning Jacket).One of the most profound influences on "Something About Knowing" is the life-changing joy and newfound responsibility of being a first-time parent. "I worked on the album in bursts, when my son was napping," Maria recalls. "Instead of taking a shower during those times, I'd run downstairs with the baby monitor and write and demo up songs."The album beckons with the opening track "Folk Song Melody," a mesmerizing acoustic-with-celestial-atmospherics track crafted around a wordless singsong passage that's instantly familiar. "That section says everything without words and the rest of the record fills in the emotions," she says. And the emotions brimming on "Something About Knowing" are bliss and contentment.Something About Knowing's spirit of "coming home with confidence" extends from Maria's personal and artistic peacefulness to the team she picked to surround herself with while making this album. She enlisted producer Mike Mogis, an essential creative foil on her first two records.  Her brother Macey Taylor played bass on every song as well as keyboards and piano. And her old high school music pal Brad Armstrong co-wrote, played on, and recorded two tracks in his garage. "There we were back in his garage, only now we both had kids running around, it was really special," Maria says. Longtime friend and collaborator Andy LeMaster mixed these two songs. Additionally, Maria recorded the track "This Is It" with Lester Nuby, and Daniel Farris-two trusted companions she worked with on her last two records-at home in Birmingham, Alabama. The end result is an album that feels like a warm family reunion of eclectic but beloved characters bonded by a musical bloodline."This record has the spirit of 'This is how I feel now, and these are all the elements that brought me here,'" Maria explains. "I listened to my previous records and went in the studio wanting to take the best elements of each of them...I feel like I really conquered something on this one."Tracklisting:01. Folk Song Melody02. Up All Night03. Tunnel Vision04. Sum of Our Lives05. You've Got a Way with the Light06. Something About Knowing07. This Is It08. Broken Objects09. Saturday in June10. A Lullaby for You Upcoming Shows:9/6 - Birmingham, AL @ Iron City with Jim James (My Morning Jacket)

Tue, 08/27/2013 - 4:06 am

The psychedelic groove-rock 6-piece Sol Cat are kicking off the Fall announcing their latest EP Welcome to Cowabunga to be released on October 1st This EP is a follow-up to the band's self-titled LP, which released earlier this year and debuted at #147 on the CMJ Charts. The album landed the band featured Official showcases at SXSW and at the upcoming CMJ Music Marathon. Sol Cat also announces today they will hit the road this Fall to support the new EP with dates spanning from New Orleans to Cincinnati to New York City. For more on the EP and the tour, visit: www.solcatmusic.comBefore landing in Nashville, Sol Cat's members spent their time across the country, from Miami to Los Angeles, New York City to the Gulf of Mexico. Musical influences span just as wide, yet an eclectic and oceanic resonance remains prevalent in their sound. With George McCrae-inspired grooves, semi-psych synth layers, bouncy bass and slick guitar riffs reminiscent of The Talking Heads, it's no wonder Sol Cat was just named The Nashville Deli's Artist of the Month. The band puts on an energized, electric live show that The Deli explains, "brings out the best dance-rock music that will get your bodies moving."With such a range of cultural and artistic influences, Sol Cat's creative process is equally interesting. Brett Hammann (lead vocals/songwriter) steers the musical direction of the band while Johnny Fisher (guitar) leads the group into new and uncharted territory. Ryan Usher (drums) provides the rhythmic backbone for Aaron Martin (bass), who also acts as Sol Cat's Art Director. Jaan Cohan (lead guitar) brings catchy licks and skills to melt any face, leaving Jeremy Clark (keyboard/studio engineer) to play intuitively as the music essentially produces itself.To best explain Sol Cat, think of a midnight drive somewhere warm, certainly the top is down, and yes, a beauty is in the passenger seat. The six-piece band suggests that you can take this foggy, dreamlike scenario with you wherever you go.Sol Cat will release Welcome to Cowabunga on October 1st. For updates, please head to www.solcatmusic.com.Fall Tour Dates:Sept 17 - Conway, AR @ Bear's Den PizzaSept 18 - Cleveland, MS @ Hey Joe'sSept 19 - Columbus, GA @ CSU RiverPark Campus - Woodruff Park LawnSept 20 - New Orleans, LA @ Tulane UniversitySept 21 - Mobile, AL @ Alabama Music BoxSept 28 - Cincinnati, OH @ Midpoint Music Fest (The Drinkery)Oct 15-19 - New York, NY @ CMJ Music Marathon (Official Showcases TBA)

Wed, 08/28/2013 - 2:40 pm

CMJ Music Marathon is pleased to announce the first round of performing artists for this year's event, held October 15-19 in New York City. The 2013 festival revisits a few old friends while inviting hundreds of gifted new ones. This year's line-up also builds on last year's diverse, international roster, pulling talent from across the globe for one of the world's most influential outlets for rising artists.Visit CMJ.com/marathon for more details on 2013 performing artists, hundreds more of whom will be announced in coming weeks. Highlights include:ASTR, Betty Who, DIANA, The Dismemberment Plan, Empress Of, Fuck Buttons, Glasser, Godflesh, The Griswolds, HAERTS, Half Moon Run, Helio Sequence, Hunters, JMSN, Kevin Drew, Lee Fields & The Expressions, The Long Winters, Lovelife, Menomena, The Neighbourhood, Nick Waterhouse, Obits, Quadron, Saul Williams, Savages, Speedy Ortiz, WoodkidAdditional artists in the initial line-up include:Bad Suns * Ball Park Music * Black City Lights * Bear Mountain * Big Black Delta * Black Light Dinner Party * BLK Kathy * Bored Nothing * Calvin Love * Cardiknox * Caught A Ghost * Chrome Sparks * City Riots * Cloak Ox * Continuum * Courtney Barnett * Dan Croll * Deep Cotton * Deep Dark Woods * Diane Birch * Dorine Levy * Dune Rats * Duologue * Dusted * Ejecta * Eleanor Friedberger * Electric Wire Hustle * Elizabeth Rose * Elle King * Elliot and The Ghost * Emperors * Enola Fall * Ex-Cult * Firehorse * Frontier  Ruckus * GEMS * Geoffrey O'Connor* * Ghost Wave * Ginger And The Ghost * Gossling * Grizfolk *Gus + Scout * Hopspin * In The Valley Below * INVSN * Jacco Gardner * JBM * *Jessy Lanza * Jetta *John Murry * Julia Easterlin * July Talk * Junior Prom * Kid Karate * Kill It Kid * King Dude * Landshapes * Larry Gus * *Lawrence Rothman * Le Trouble * Lee Bannon * Little Daylight * Lindi Ortega * Magic Man * Marc Kinchen * Marijuana Deathsquads * Misun * Moonstone * Nicole Mercedes and the Affair * Night Drive * NONONO * North Highlands * Oh Mercy * Okta Logue * Optic Yellow Felt * Orgone* * P.O.S.* Panama Wedding * Peachpit * Pelican * People Get Ready * Pictureplane * Ponyboy * Pool Cosby *  RATKING * REPTILES * Reuben and the Dark * Royal Bangs * Saint Rich * Sheppard * Shigeto * Sir Sly * Slim Twig * Squad * Still Corners * Story of the Running Wolf * Strange Talk * Streets of Laredo * TEEN * The Aprons * The Delta * Riggs * The History of Apple Pie * The Novocaines * The Preatures * *Them Swoops * Tiny Ruins * Touch * Sensitive * Tremor Low * TV Ghost * U.S. Girls * Vadoinmessico * WET * Will Stratton * Wilsen *World's End * Press * Yamantaka // Sonic Titan *

Fri, 08/30/2013 - 12:32 pm

Guitar virtuoso, Al Di Meola, will be releasing a personal tribute to The Beatles with his new album, All Your Life.  Recorded in analogue at Abbey Road Studios in London, where the Beatles created most of their records during their heyday, All Your Life stands as a triumph in the long and illustrious career of a bona fide guitar hero.  All Your Life will be released September 10th, 2013.  For more information, please visit: www.aldimeola.com.Like millions of other American boys growing up during the 1960s, guitarist Al Di Meola was forever affected by seeing The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show back in the era of black & white TV. His early encounter with the Fab Four lit a passion in him and may be directly responsible for the New Jersey native first picking up the guitar. "Had they not existed, I probably would be, who knows...a fireman today or some other job," says the celebrated guitarist. "And beyond just me, they changed the whole world. There is no music in my lifetime that made as huge an impact on the world like that of the Beatles. What they did to modern pop music in the '60s changed everything."Nearly 50 years after the first wave of Beatlemania washed onto Stateside shores, the six-string superstar returns to his early roots in paying a personal tribute to that seminal influence with All Your Life. A virtual one-man show of virtuosity, All Your Life features the guitar great interpreting 14 familiar Beatles tunes in the stripped-down setting of strictly acoustic guitar. On some tracks, like "In My Life" and "Because," he overdubs three guitars to get the rich, shimmering textures and intricate patterns created on his signature Al Di Meola Conde Hermanos nylon string guitar, his Gibson steel string guitar and a 1948 Martin acoustic. Others like "Penny Lane," "I Am The Walrus" and "I Will" utilize two guitars while "And I Love Her," "Blackbird" and "If I Fell" utilized a single guitar track.  All the percussion heard throughout the recording is Di Meola himself slapping the wood body of his instrument or strumming muted strings for percussive effect.  All the tracks are imbued with the guitarist's signature flamenco flourishes, intricate arpeggiating and dazzling cross-picking. Only one track does he employ other musicians (a dramatic reading of "Eleanor Rigby" that features a string quartet).Music veteran Steve Vai praises the album, stating, "The Beatles music may be timeless but one of the beautiful things about it is the way people re-record it and give it their own spin. After listening to Al DiMeola's Beatles tribute I suspects it's the most unique take on that music I have heard. His inimitable sense of syncopation saturates the grooves while is round and gorgeous acoustic finger tones dance this music instead of just performing it. It's quite a treat even for people who may not be Beatles fans... if there are any." "I've come full circle with this," says Di Meola, who was inducted into Guitar Player's Gallery of Greats in 1981 after four consecutive wins as Best Jazz Guitarist in the magazine's Readers Poll. "I started out my life loving the Beatles, and I never stopped, just like a lot of so many other guitarists from my generation. In the middle, we all went into whatever music we pursued in our careers -- fusion, jazz, whatever it might be. We all wanted to further our craft. But when you come back to the Beatles' music, it's like, 'Man, this stuff is still happening! All of it!' And there's not a day that goes by that we're not somehow touched by the Beatles, whether it's a story online or something we hear. It's almost every day that we see some connection in our lives with the Beatles."Back in the '70s, Di Meola blazed the fusion trail with supergroup Return To Forever and with his own powerhouse Latin-tinged fusion group. He focused on the purity of acoustic guitar during the early '80s with a trio of international virtuosos in Spain's flamenco master Paco de Lucia and British-born founder of the Mahavishnu Orchestra, John McLaughlin. For the past 20-plus years, Di Meola has been courting a different muse with his World Sinfonia, a dynamic group that blends world music elements and also specializes in interpreting the work of Argentine tango master Astor Piazzolla. The acoustic All Your Life follows on the heels of Di Meola's 2011 recording, Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody, which incorporated everything from Argentinian tango to Spanish flamenco to Middle Eastern and North African music and included an electrifying interpretation of The Beatles' "Strawberry Fields Forever."Di Meola says that playing that Beatles tune on his last album may have triggered something. "I thought, 'Why stop there?' These tunes are so familiar and beloved by everybody. And to be able to record them at Abbey Road Studios was really special. Being there, I felt like a kid for the first time since I was a kid. It's an amazing place, like going to Disney World at five years old. Between that and getting to meet Paul McCartney last summer while I was preparing the record...the whole experience and what it meant to me is like a dream come true."Di Meola's serendipitous encounter with the ex-Beatle was a personal highlight for 2012. As he explains, "I had already recorded three tunes at Abbey Road and decided to rent a house for Labor Day weekend in the Hamptons, with the idea of working on arrangements for the rest of the pieces out there. And as I finalizing the deal with the realtor to rent this house, he tells me, 'Oh, by the way, your next door neighbor is a famous pop star.' And when I found out it was Paul McCartney, I got chills. So my wife and I drove out there and as we're pulling into the driveway, there he was pulling out of his driveway right next to mine. No security, no nothing. And he was driving an old Ford Bronco. We finally got to meet on the third day. I saw him pulling out of the driveway and said hello. He rolled down the window and we talked for a while. I told him I was recording at Abbey Road, and all the time I'm thinking, 'Here I am, talking to Paul McCartney! What the hell!'No doubt McCartney would be impressed by Di Meola's personal interpretations of the 14 Beatles tunes featured on All Your Life. "The idea was to keep it simple," says the guitarist. "Things always sound better when they're not cluttered together. Essentially, I wanted to include all the syncopation in there while trying to keep the essence of the tune in tact in terms of melody. There's been a lot of jazz guys who have done their own interpretations, but there's usually so much reharmonizing and altering of the melody that you would never even know that it's a Beatles tune. And I did not want to do that. My intent was to bring in the sophistication through rhythm as opposed to altering of harmony, which really would take the prettiness away. I wanted to preserve the beauty of these tunes."While he says that certain tunes like "She's Leaving Home" and "I Am The Walrus" were relatively easy to execute, others like "Penny Lane" and "Michelle" were extremely difficult. "Some of this stuff was as hard to practice and get right, in terms of the way that I syncopated it, as anything of Piazzolla's. Even though you could view the Beatles as more simplistic music, it's in the way that you approach it. And some of them were really tricky."The September release of Di Meola's All Your Life is the culmination of his own personal magical mystery tour. "This project is a lifelong dream, long overdue and immensely fulfilling!" says the guitar great. He plans to follow up this fall with a "Beatles and More" tour featuring his World Sinfonia augmented by string quartet. Al Di Meola will release All Your Life on September 10th, 2013.  Physical release will be available via Allegro Media Group September 24th, 2013.Track Listing:1. In My Life2. And I Love Her3. Because4. Michelle5. I Will6. Eleanor Rigby7. Penny Lane8. Blackbird9. I Am The Walrus10. Day In The Life11. Being For The Benefit Of Mr. Kite12. With A Little Help From My Friends13. If I Fell14. She's Leaving Home

Thu, 09/05/2013 - 2:28 pm

Pioneering the Go-Go Brass Funk genre since 2010, Brass-A-Holics are set to release their debut album I AM A BRASS-A-HOLIC on October 29th. I AM A BRASS-A-HOLIC was produced by Grammy Award and Billboard Award winner Irvin Mayfield, who is also featured on the album's first single "Alien Love Factory." For more information, please visit: www.brass-a-holics.comBlended with keys and strings, Brass-A-Holics' Go-Go Brass Funk genre combines the unrivaled New Orleans brass sound with Washington DC's Go-Go groove. Such an innovative musical practice has landed the band a feature on The Grammy's ReImagined Series and performances at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, D.C. Jazz Festival and New Orleans French Quarter Festival. Watch Brass-A-Holics cover Paul Simon on Grammy.com, here: http://bit.ly/1awvKUxBrass-A-Holics was conceived in the mind of the New Orleans' most celebrated trombonist, Winston Turner. Taking his years of experience playing in The Soul Rebels Brass Band, Turner brought together top members from fellow renowned groups like the To Be Continued Brass BandNew Birth Brass Band, Marva Wright and The Wild Magnolias, to form the 8-piece powerhouse he's always dreamed of. He explains,"I think I finally got it right. I am rejuvenated and more excited now than I have ever been in my 20+ years of being a musician. The family that we put together on stage is like a group of all-stars. The sky is the limit. We want to become legendary".Along with Turner, this uniquely diversified band consists of Tannon Williams (trumpet), Robin Clabby (saxophone), Jason "Slick" Slack(bass horn), Matt Clark (guitar), Keiko Komaki (piano), Dwayne Muhammad (percussion) and Rickey Caesar (drums). Although there are differences in culture, style, and swagger within this band, the members of the Brass-A-Holics collectively craft a unified and unparalleled sound.Be warned that this sound is a powerful substance; both addictive and intoxicating. It is guaranteed that you will find yourself addicted to the Brass-A-Holic sound!Brass-A-Holics will release I AM A BRASS-A-HOLIC on October 29th. Please head to www.brass-a-holics.com for more updates.Track Listing:01. Alien Love Factory02. Runnin03. Get It In04.Theme from Lupin III05. Hey Baby06. A Good Night07. Raw Dawg08. Hoochie Coochie Man09. Do the Things You Do10. They Sew11. Happy Birthday Hallelujah

Wed, 10/16/2013 - 3:15 pm

Tegan and Sara have premiered a new song "Shudder to Think," from Relativity Music Group's Music from and Inspired by Dallas Buyers Club, on RollingStone.com today. The track is the first to be released from the soundtrack, which will be available via iTunes on October 29th. Sara Quinn of Tegan and Sara comments, "I've been very excited about Dallas Buyers Club ever since hearing about the film. With the soundtrack supporting such an important cause, we're very excited to contribute a previously unreleased B-side to the campaign."The upcoming Focus Features drama, Dallas Buyers Club, stars Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, and Jared Leto, and opens in New York and Los Angeles on November 1st and in other cities throughout November. Inspired by the film, which is based on a true story of a man battling with AIDS. Relativity Music Group partnered with (RED) to support the AIDS fight. Every soundtrack sold will donate 10% of net proceeds to help finance the critical work of The Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa. Global Fund grants supported by (RED) enable programs which include prevention, treatment, counseling, HIV testing and care services.  Other artists contributing to the soundtrack include Thirty Seconds to Mars (for which Leto is lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter), My Morning Jacket, Manchester Orchestra, Neon Trees, Fitz and the Tantrums, Portugal. The Man, Cold War Kids, Capital Cities, AWOLNATION, The Naked and the Famous, The Airborne Toxic Event and Blondfire.Track Listing:1.         Shuggie Otis  "Sweet Thang"2.         The Naked and the Famous   "Following Morning"3.         The Airborne Toxic Event   "Hell and Back"4.         My Morning Jacket  "Ready To Be Called On"5.         Blondfire  "Life of the Party"6.         Fitz and the Tantrums  "The Walker" (Reyland Allison Remix)7.         Tegan and Sara  "Shudder To Think"8.         Neon Trees  "Mad Love" (Acoustic)9.         Portugal. The Man  "Main Man"10.       Capital Cities "Stayin' Alive"11.       Cold War Kids "Romance Languages"12.       AWOLNATION  "Burn It Down" (Innerpartysystem remix)13.       Manchester Orchestra  "After the Scripture"14.       Thirty Seconds to Mars  "City of Angels" (Acoustic)15.       T. Rex  "Main Man"16.       T. Rex  "Life is Strange"

Wed, 10/23/2013 - 1:38 pm

Love Crushed Velvet has released their new EP, Delusions, today! Mixed by Mark Needham (Blondie, Fleetwood Mac, The Killers), the album channels emotional turmoil through muscular, postpunk aggression, showing off exceptional emotional and stylistic range. The album is now available on iTunes, here: bit.ly/1b9OHxq.  You can also check out a full stream of Delusions, on MSN Music's Listening Booth, here: music.msn.com/music/listeningboothLove Crushed Velvet's Delusions is a powerful force that touches upon the complications of love, fame and our global society. The EP begins right at the apex, with its premiere single "Revolution Time"capturing an unyielding spirit of upheaval inspired by the personal experiences and perspective of A.L.X..  The track exclusively premiered on Artist Direct, here: bit.ly/14yMAuB.  Love Crushed Velvet maintains the unwavering strength of a revolution high throughout the entirety of Delusions.Channeling influences from Joy Division, U2 and The Rolling Stones, Love Crushed Velvet blends alternative, glam and classic rock into a contemporary sound that retains a strong sense of melody and edge. Complementing its virtuoso recordings with a compelling live show that is reminiscent of the glory days of rock and roll, Love Crushed Velvet has carved out a unique place in today's music world, paying homage to the past while remaining firmly grounded in the present. The highly anticipated release of Delusions will cement the band's place in the world of dark, melodic rock. Driven by lead singer/songwriter A.L.X., Love Crushed Velvet shows off exceptional emotional and stylistic range in lyric and musicality. A.L.X explains, "When we set out to record Delusions, our goal was to create a sound that demonstrated a natural evolution from the postpunk/classic rock influences of our debut album. While attempting to maintain some of the darker elements that are the essence of Love Crushed Velvet, a lot of focus went into crafting a sound that was 'rock', but not necessarily in the classic sense. With the lyrical content of the new songs, we really tried to dig deep and delve into uncomfortable territory."Love Crushed Velvet releases Delusions, today, September 24th!  You can purchase the album on iTunes, Here: bit.ly/1b9OHxq.

Sat, 10/26/2013 - 11:24 am

Inspired by the Arab Spring of 2011, "Revolution Time" is the first single from Love Crushed Velvet's critically-acclaimed EP Delusions. The video was shot in NYC by Yasu Nakajima and edited by Jeremy Peel.

Tue, 10/29/2013 - 11:46 am

The Go-Go Brass Funk band Brass-A-Holics release their new album I AM A BRASS-A-HOLIC today, October 29th! The 11-track album was produced by Grammy Award and Billboard Award winner Irvin Mayfield, who is also featured on I AM A BRASS-A-HOLC's first single "Alien Love Factory." Stream the album on ARTISTdirect here: http://bit.ly/HmsS0q & MSN Music here: http://on-msn.com/1aExEko. Purchase the album on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/16IJ6qIBlended with keys and strings, Brass-A-Holics' Go-Go Brass Funk genre combines the unrivaled New Orleans brass sound with Washington DC's Go-Go groove. Such an innovative musical practice has landed the band a feature on The Grammy's ReImagined Series and performances at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, D.C. Jazz Festival and New Orleans French Quarter Festival. Watch Brass-A-Holics cover Paul Simon on Grammy.com, here: http://bit.ly/1awvKUxBrass-A-Holics was conceived in the mind of the New Orleans' most celebrated trombonist, Winston Turner. Taking his years of experience playing in The Soul Rebels Brass Band, Turner brought together top members from fellow renowned groups like the To Be Continued Brass Band, New Birth Brass Band, Marva Wright and The Wild Magnolias, to form the 8-piece powerhouse he's always dreamed of. Along with Turner, this uniquely diversified band consists of Tannon Williams (trumpet), Robin Clabby (saxophone), Jason "Slick" Slack (bass horn), Matt Clark (guitar), Keiko Komaki (piano), Dwayne Muhammad (percussion) and Rickey Caesar (drums). Although there are differences in culture, style, and swagger within this band, the members of the Brass-A-Holics collectively craft a unified and unparalleled sound. With excitement brewing over the upcoming album, Clabby explains, "It's been 3 years in the making and we are excited to finally get this project out to the world. We're ready to welcome all newcomers to the Brass-A-Holic Nation!"Be warned that this sound is a powerful substance; both addictive and intoxicating. It is guaranteed that you will find yourself addicted to the Brass-A-Holic sound!

Wed, 11/20/2013 - 1:47 pm

The prog/rock quartet TAUK will wrap up a successful 2013 bringing their unique and powerful live show to audiences along the East Coast from November through December. Highlights include performances at the Official Phish After-Party in NYC with Fikus on December 28th and a New Year's Eve show in Baltimore at the 8x10 with Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. In addition to these shows, the band will also play select dates in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Virginia. For tickets and more details, visit: www.taukband.com.TAUK joined forces with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album, Homunculus, which was release just this past April. The album is available for download on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/iTunesTauk.The band was featured this year as a Relix Magazine "On The Verge" Artist, joining the ranks of Yeasayer, Unknown Mortal Orchestra and Mumford & Sons - all "On The Verge" artists featured over the past few years.TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on the summer's biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, Gathering of the Vibes, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival, The Allman Brother's Peach Fest, snoe.Down, Mazfest and opening gigs for moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green, Perpetual Groove, Toubab Krewe and more. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music: http://bit.ly/TAUKbeatles.TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus. Jalbert explains, "This band has been through a lot, but we hit a point last year where it just felt like things were coming together the way they were supposed to. We really wanted this new album to be a statement as to what TAUK is all about."TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future continues to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.Upcoming Tour Dates:Nov 21- Johnstown, PA @ Venue of Merging ArtistsNov 22 - Baltimore, MD @ 8x10 w/ Kung FuNov 23 - Hartford, CT @ The Mill (Trinity College)Dec 06 - Albany, NY @ The Hollow w/ Formula 5Dec 07 - Nyack, NY @ Olive'sDec 18 - Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506Dec 19 - Asheville, NC @ One Stop Deli w/ Captain MidnightDec 20 - Chantilly, VA @ Bungalow Billiards w/ Shack BandDec 27 - Philadelphia, PA @ Theater of Living Arts w/ Dopapod and Swift TechniqueDec 28 - New York, NY @ Drom w/ FikusDec 31 - Baltimore, MD @ 8x10 w/ Pigeons Playing Ping Pong and ELM

Thu, 12/05/2013 - 7:37 pm

The prog/rock quartet TAUK announces today they will support Karl Denson's Tiny Universe on select East Coast dates, from January 28th - February 1st. TAUK will bring their unique instrumental blend of funk, jazz, pop, and rock to shows in Portland, ME; Cambridge, Mass; Philadelphia, PA; Washington, D.C. and Westbury, NY. For tickets and more details, visit: www.taukband.com.  In the meantime, TAUK will wrap up a successful 2013 with performances at New York City's Official Phish After-Party with Fikus on December 28th and Baltimore's New Year's Eve at The 8x10 with Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. TAUK joined forces with Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to craft their first entirely instrumental full-length album, Homunculus, released in April 2013. The album is available for download on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/iTunesTauk.TAUK's unique experimental blend of instrumental funk, jazz, pop, and rock landed the band spots on the nation's biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, Gathering of the Vibes, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival, The Allman Brother's Peach Fest, snoe.Down, Mazfest and opening gigs for moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, O.A.R., 311, Tea Leaf Green, Perpetual Groove and more. Check out TAUK performing their unique rendition of The Beatles classic "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" for Indaba Music: http://bit.ly/TAUKbeatles.TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound throughout the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place for Homunculus.TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of Tauk's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. The future continues to look bright for this talented and ambitious quartet.Upcoming Tour Dates:Dec 06 - Albany, NY @ The Hollow w/ Formula 5Dec 07 - Nyack, NY @ Olive'sDec 18 - Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506Dec 19 - Asheville, NC @ One Stop Deli w/ Captain MidnightDec 20 - Chantilly, VA @ Bungalow Billiards w/ Shack BandDec 27 - Philadelphia, PA @ Theater of Living Arts w/ Dopapod and Swift TechniqueDec 28 - New York, NY @ Drom w/ FikusDec 31 - Baltimore, MD @ 8x10 w/ Pigeons Playing Ping Pong and ELMJan 28 - Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall**Jan 29 - Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair**Jan 30 - Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts**Jan 31 - Washington D.C. @ 9:30 Club**Feb 01 - Westbury, NY @ The Space at Westbury** ** With Karl Denson's Tiny Universe

Tue, 02/11/2014 - 8:29 am

Just in time for Valentine's Day, New Orleans' own soulful blues quartet Mississippi Rail Company releases their new music video for the single "Milky Way" via ArtistDirect today. Singer/songwriter/pianist for the band, Travers Geoffray, explains the concept behind this beautifully constructed video, produced and created by one of New Orleans' best photographers/ videographers, Rob Davis.  Geoffray explains, "'Milky Way' is a reverie or fantasy of traveling with your partner around the world and across the universe. Or more simply, love takes you everywhere, it can even take you beyond the limits of your imagination. In the video, we simply wanted to capture real couples, in their element, as they are." Watch the new video, here: http://bit.ly/ADMissRailCo.

Mississippi Rail Company is one of New Orleans' most prominent rising local acts. The band's unique blend of soulful blues breathes fresh, youthful energy into classic New Orleans roots music - moving music forward via a vehicle of the past. Mississippi Rail Company just sold out their headlining Launch Party on January 30th and followed it up landing an opening slot for the Soul Rebels Rebels Brass Band at the legendary Tipitina's just one week later on February 7th. The sold out Launch Show revealed the band's 2014 Singles Project, for which the band is releasing one new track every month of 2014.

Mississippi Rail Company's acclaimed live performance style has landed them impressive festival slots at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Voodoo Fest, Hogs for the Cause, and Crawfest at Tulane University, plus supporting gigs across the southern U.S. with Rebirth Brass Band, Soul Rebels Brass Band, Papa Mali, The Revivalists, Flow Tribe, and Lost Bayou Ramblers

Led by singer/pianist/songwriter Travers Geoffray, Mississippi Rail Company attributes their band name to the Delta Blues region that inspires them. "Mississippi is essentially the birthplace of American music, and that's what we like to play: American music," Geoffray says. "The 'rail company' aspect is based off our journey, traveling throughout the South and picking up all the different sounds and influences along the way."

The complex songwriting style Geoffray exercises is rooted in years of studying New Orleans piano under the great Tom McDermott, featured prominently playing himself in HBO's Treme Season 1. Under McDermott, Geoffray studied the styles of New Orleans' renowned pianists - soaking up everything the music of Fats Domino, Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Scott Joplin and James Booker could teach.

Along with Geoffray, Mississippi Rail Company features an always suit-wearing lineup consisting of Sam Shahin (drums), Calvin Mourin-Martin (upright bass) and Robin Clabby (tenor saxaphone). The upcoming Gasa Gasa show will also feature a 3-piece horn section, new material, and more.

The band's 2014 Singles Project is a follow up to their debut full-length release, Coal Black Train. Geoffray sees the goal of the singles project as a means to create songs without the confines that albums present. "We want listeners to hear each track individually rather than hear the songs in relation to each other off a collective work" explains Geoffray. With 12 months of new tunes, the band will have the opportunity to explore new ground and feature various instrumentation and genres; blues, swing, gospel, big band and more.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Feb 13 - Oxford, MS @ Proud Larry's

Feb 14 - Starkville, MS @ Dave's Dark Horse

Feb 15 - Ocean Springs, MS @ Government Street Grocery

Feb 21 - Baton Rouge, LA @ Chelsea's Cafe

Mar 2 - New Orleans, LA @ Prytania Bar w/ Rebirth Brass Band

Mar 4 - Gulfport, MS @ Irish Coast Pub

Mar 13 - Key West, FL @ The Green Parrot

Mar 14 - Orlando, FL @ Universal Studios Mardi Gras

Mar 15 - Orlando, FL @ Universal Studios Mardi Gras

Mar 28 - Lafayette, LA @ Artmosphere

Wed, 02/12/2014 - 11:11 am

World-renowned Billboard Reggae Chart-topping group Tribal Seeds announce today they will release their fourth studio album this Spring entitled Representing. Tribal Seeds will celebrate the new album release by hitting the road on a 35-date national "Representing Tour" this Spring with support from New Kingston and Inna Vision. The tour will kick-off in Flagstaff, AZ on February 28th and includes stops in all major markets spanning from Texas to Florida to Vermont to Oregon and everywhere in between. Tickets are on sale now, here: www.tribalseeds.net.While the release date, track listing, and album details are still TBA, Tribal Seeds is excited to announce today that the new album Representing will feature Vaughn Benjamin of Midnite on the title track. Also featured will be past tour mate, Kyle McDonald of Slightly Stoopid on "In Your Area", plus reggae greats Don Carlos & Michael Rose, featured in "Blood Clot" and Herb Stock" respectively. Current touring partners New Kingston also make an appearance on "Fill It Up" and rounding up the featured guests is Tribal Seeds' own guitarist, Gonzo who will display his singing talent in the song "Undercover Lover." The forthcoming full-length album was recorded in Southern California's Imperial Sound, a recording studio owned and operated by Tribal Seeds' own E.N. Young (keyboardist/ backup vocalist) and interestingly the most Southwest recording studio in the United States. Tribal Seeds' own Tony-Ray "Maad T-Ray" Jacobo along with the rest of the band members continue to produce their own music.This forthcoming full-length album is a follow-up to their 2011 EP "Soundwaves" which peaked at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Charts. Representing also marks the band's first full-length release since 2009's The Harvest, a 14-track album that landed on the iTunes "Best of Reggae" list and peaked at #5 on the Billboard Reggae Charts. While the last Tribal Seeds albums were inspired by touring and the band's desire to inspire youth to raise their voices, their new album strives to take that message even further. As Tony-Ray explains it,  "this album promotes and inspires a positive and uplifting message which you can't help but vibe to."Hailing from San Diego, California, Tribal Seeds have become known for their spiritually driven, refreshing rock vibe they have infused with the roots style of reggae music. What began as a side-project - formed in 2006 by musically gifted brothers Steven Rene Jacobo (lead vocals, guitar) and Tony­Ray "Maad T-Ray" Jacobo (producer, keyboards, back-up vocals), Tribal Seeds has grown into a movement. The band is one of the most award-winning, top-selling, musically talented, and fan-adored artists in not only the reggae world, but also across the music industry. Tribal Seeds now boasts six powerful members, including: Carlos Verdugo (drums), Victor Navarro (bass), E.N Young (keyboards, back up vocals) & Ryan Gonzo (guitar).Tribal Seeds has collaborated in the studio with top artists including Sonny Sandoval (P.O.D), Eric Rachmany (Rebelution), Kyle McDonald (Slightly Stoopid), and reggae legend Don Carlos. Over the years the band has shared the stage with music's most respected artists such as Dave Mathews Band, Jack White, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane's Addiction, Skrillex, MGMT, Cee Lo Green, Jason Mraz, Matisyahu, Sublime with Rome, Taking Back Sunday, O.A.R., Pretty Lights, Pepper, Collie Buddz, The Wailers, Julian Marley, Stephen Marley, Slightly Stoopid, Gregory Isaacs, SOJA, Rebelution, and many more.  Tribal Seeds takes great pride in equally focusing on the art of producing high quality recorded music and the art of putting on an outstanding live show. The band maintains a strict regimen of tirelessly touring to spread their positive vibes and contagious tunes across the nation and beyond - playing shows as far as Mexico, Guam, and Aruba to continue expanding their reach. The band consistently performs for sold-out crowds and impressively has the keen ability to both cater to their fanbase while still pushing the limits of their music. The formula is working - Tribal Seeds currently boasts 190,000+ Facebook fans, 25,000+ Twitter followers, a true representation of the network of steadfast fans that remain the heartbeat, pulse, and inspiration for the band.Tribal Seeds will release Representing this Spring and kick-off the Representing Tour on February 28th. For more details visit www.tribalseeds.net.

Fri, 04/04/2014 - 10:41 am

The heavy NYC dirty funk 4-piece TAUK is hitting the festival scene hard this summer with their unique blend of experimental melodic prog rock and sexy grooves. The band's Spring and Summer lineup includes sets at 16 festivals including The Hudson Music Project, Floyd Fest, Blackstock Music Festival, Camp Barefoot, Mad Tea Party Jam, Rock N Roll Resort, Some Kind Of Jam 9, Blossoms Blooming Festival, Domefest, The Big What?, Under The Stars, Pasture Palooza, Pink Moon Festival, All Go West and more to be announced soon. For tickets and more information, visit: http://www.taukband.com.

TAUK is Matt Jalbert (Guitar), Charlie Dolan (Bass), Alric "A.C." Carter (Keyboard-Organ), and Isaac Teel (Drums). The quartet is currently in the studio with legendary Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) crafting their sophomore full-length album - due out Summer 2014. Carranza explains, "what's compelling is the raw power of the band, from their light moments to full-out jamming. Music is a language that some feel and others speak - and TAUK do both very well."

TAUK's latest album will be a triumphant follow-up to their 2013 first completely instrumental full-length album, Homunculus - a record that received widespread acclaim including an "On The Verge" feature in Relix Magazine, frequent rotation for the single "Dead Signal" on Sirius XM Jam On, and helped garner a growing fanbase of music lovers spanning all ages and musical genre preference.

TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of TAUK's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. TAUK has landed spots on the biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp, and The Allman Brothers' Peach Fest and played in direct support for some of the most respected names in music including moe., Robert Randolph & the Family Band, The Funky Meters, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, Lettuce, Dopapod, Tim Reynolds & TR3, Perpetual Groove, Tea Leaf Green, Toubab Krewe, The Mantras, The Revivalists and more.

TAUK's chemistry can be attributed to their history. Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound over the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place. Since then the band has continued to push the envelope of their musical vision, creating instant fans across the country on a nightly basis.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Apr 3 - Worchester, MA @ Electric Haze

Apr 4 - Kerkhonkson, NY @ Rock N Roll Resort

Apr 8 - Asbury Park, NJ @ The Saint w/ Karmic Juggernaut & Jordan Family Band

Apr 9 - Frederick, MD @ Café 611 w/Moogatu & DeltaNINE

Apr 10 - Philadelphia, PA @ XO Lounge w/AlyCat

Apr 11 - Albany, NY @ Red Square w/ Mister F

Apr 12 - Providence, RI @ The Spot w/ Mr. Breakdown and Slice

Apr 16 - Winchester, VA @ Blue Fox Billiards

Apr 17 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Doc Taylors Seaside Market Lounge

Apr 18 - Charlotte, NC @ The Chop Shop w/ Yo Mama Big Fat Booty Band & Dopapod

Apr 19 - Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West w/ Motet & Consider The Source

Apr 26 - Schuylkill Haven, PA @ Some Kind Of Jam 9

May 3 - Boston, MA @ The Church w/ Consider The Source

May 4 - Pomfret, CT @ Tyrone Farm w/ Aqueous

May 7 - Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl co-headlining w/Fikus

May 10 - Sharpsburg, MD @ Blossoms Blooming Festival

May 14 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Thunderbird Café w/ Aqueous

May 16 - Covington, KY @ Cosmo's Grille Pub w/ Aqueous

May 17 - Indianapolis, IN @ The Mousetrap w/ Aqueous

May 21 - Charlottesville, VA @ The Southern w/ DJ Williams Projekt

May 22 - Richmond, VA @ The Camel w/ DJ Williams Projekt

May 23 - High Point, NC @ Blue Burbon Jacks w/ ESP

May 24 - Asheville, NC @ Asheville Music Hall w/ Nomadic

May 25 - Knoxville, TN @ The Bowery

May 30 - Terra Alta, WV @ Domefest

May 31 - Blackstock, SC @ Blackstock Music Festival

June 7 - Asheville, NC @ All Go West Music Festival

Jun 19-20 - Hedgesville, WV @ Mad Tea Party Jam Festival

Jun 27 - Prospect Hill, SC @ The Big What? Music Festival

Jul 5 - Terra Alta, WV @ Under The Stars Festival

Jul 11 - Saugerties, New York @ Hudson Music Project

Jul 12 - Berryville, VA @ Pasture Palooza Music & Arts Festival

Jul 24 - Charlotte, NC @ White Water Center

Jul 25 - 26 - Floyd, VA @ Floyd Fest

Aug 14 - Abingdon, VA @ Abingdon Music Experience

Aug 21 - Bartow, WV @ Camp Barefoot

Sept 12 - Rock Camp, WV @ Pink Moon Festival

Thu, 04/17/2014 - 2:17 pm

The Village Voice announces today its fourth annual 4Knots Music Festival will be held on Saturday, July 12th from 1-8pm at New York City's South Street Seaport, rain or shine. Manhattan's favorite summer music festival will return with over 10 bands hand-picked by the Voice music team. With this year's festival, The Voice continues their 14-year history of curating free, outdoor, all ages live music showcases featuring the most renowned and emerging artists breaking through today's scene.Also announced today, the Official 4Knots Music Festival After Party will take place at Webster Hall on July 12th, immediatelyfollowing the festival. The lineup for this show and tickets will be available soon.Due to Pier 17's redevelopment at the South Street Seaport, The Village Voice strengthened their commitment to the Lower Manhattan location by reformatting the festival's footprint to highlight the Seaport's Historic District."We value the history and importance of this area to New York City's past, present and future," said Josh Fromson, Publisher of The Village Voice. "By returning to the Seaport, the 4Knots Music Festival is committed to working with local businesses, the downtown community and its visitors to provide an unforgettable free summer music festival for many years to come." To keep the festival in this area, the 4Knots Music Festival collaborated with the Howard Hughes Corporation, Seaport Museum and the City of New York to make its triumphant return to its home at the Seaport."South Street Seaport is thrilled to once again partner with the Village Voice on one of New York's premier entertainment festivals. We look forward to another successful 4Knots voyage at the South Street Seaport." - Lincoln Palsgrove, Marketing Director - Howard Hughes Corporation.Similar to last year, this year's festival will feature two stages - located on Pier 16, alongside the iconic New York City landmark Peking VIP Ship and near Pier 17 within the See/Change space at Fulton @ Front Street. This will expand this year's festival northwest and onto the iconic cobblestone streets near the former Fulton Market.Lineup announcements for both the festival and the Webster Hall after-party are set to begin in the coming weeks. The 4Knots Music Festival prides itself on presenting audiences with the best up and coming artists breaking through the scene today. Past performers have included: Kurt Vile & The Violators, The Men, Parquet Courts, Fat Tony, The Black Angels, The Drums, Dan Deacon, Oberhofer, Titus Andronicus, Crocodiles, Nick Waterhouse, Bleached, Archers of Loaf, Delicate Steve, Hospitality, Devin, Eleanor Friedberger, Team Spirit and more at South Street Seaport.Bud Light is returning as the 4Knots Music Festival presenting sponsor.Running between every borough of New York City and culminating near the South Street Seaport, the East River runs at a speed of "4 knots", hence the name of the festival at this unique and historic location.For more information on The 4 Knots Music Festival, please visit: www.villagevoice.com/4KnotsFollow us online for further updates and announcements: www.twitter.com/4knotsfest & www.facebook/4knots.

Tue, 04/29/2014 - 3:04 pm

World-renowned Billboard Reggae Chart-topping group Tribal Seeds announce the official release of their fourth studio album, Representing for May 13th. Much to the excitement of their massive fanbase, the band also releases the track listingalbum art, and iTunes Presale Date of May 2nd for the new 12-track LP. Earlier this year, the band released the first single off the new record, "Fill It Up" - a teaser for an album with no other information except a fan-driven music video - a thank you to the fans who support them across the country. The music video, which features special guests New Kingston and Gonzo, has reached 48,000 views to date. Watch it, here: http://youtu.be/DLN4FgIIpfc and for more information on the new album, visit: www.tribalseeds.net.

Tribal Seeds have been celebrating the release of their new album by hitting the road on a 35-date national "Representing Tour" this Spring with support fromNew Kingston and Inna Vision. Due to the popularity of this tour, the band announces today they will be picking back up in August for a Summer Representing Tour with support from New Kingston and others TBA soon. Full tour dates will be announced soon.

With this new album, Tribal Seeds decided to invite some of their closest friends to guest-perform - a perfect presentation of the reggae family they hold close.Representing features Vaughn Benjamin of Midnite on the title track as well as past tour mate, Kyle McDonald of Slightly Stoopid on "In Your Area." Tribal Seeds were honored to land reggae greats, Don Carlos & Michael Rose, to be featured in "Blood Clot" and Herb Stock" respectively. Current touring partnersNew Kingston also make an appearance on "Fill It Up" and rounding out the featured guests is Tribal Seeds' own guitarist, Gonzo who displays his singing talent in the song "Undercover Lover" - his vocal debut on a Tribal Seeds album. Along with Gonzo, Tribal Seeds' Tony-Ray also makes his vocal debut on "Rock The Night."

The forthcoming full-length album was recorded in Southern California's Imperial Sound, a recording studio owned and operated by Tribal Seeds' own E.N. Young (keyboardist/ backup vocalist) and interestingly the most Southwest recording studio in the United States. Tribal Seeds' own Tony-Ray "Maad T-Ray" Jacobo along with the rest of the band members continue to produce their own music and uniquely have been producing and mastering this record while traveling across the nation on the 35-date national tour.

Representing is a follow-up to their 2011 EP "Soundwaves" which peaked at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Charts. Representing also marks the band's first full-length release since 2009's The Harvest, a 14-track album that landed on the iTunes "Best of Reggae" list and peaked at #5 on the Billboard Reggae Charts. While the last Tribal Seeds albums were inspired by touring and the band's desire to inspire youth to raise their voices, their new album strives to take that message even further. As Tony-Ray explains it,  "this album promotes and inspires a positive and uplifting message which you can't help but vibe to."

Hailing from San Diego, California, Tribal Seeds have become known for their spiritually driven, refreshing rock vibe they have infused with the roots style of reggae music. What began as a side-project - formed in 2006 by musically gifted brothers Steven Rene Jacobo (lead vocals, guitar) and Tony­Ray "Maad T-Ray"Jacobo (producer, keyboards, back-up vocals), Tribal Seeds has grown into a movement. The band is one of the most award-winning, top-selling, musically talented, and fan-adored artists in not only the reggae world, but also across the music industry. Tribal Seeds now boasts six powerful members, including:Carlos Verdugo (drums), Victor Navarro (bass), E.N Young (keyboards, back up vocals) & Ryan Gonzo (guitar).

Tribal Seeds has collaborated in the studio with top artists including Sonny Sandoval (P.O.D), Eric Rachmany (Rebelution), Kyle McDonald (Slightly Stoopid), and reggae legend Don Carlos. Over the years the band has shared the stage with music's most respected artists such as Dave Mathews Band, Jack White, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane's Addiction, Skrillex, MGMT, Cee Lo Green, Jason Mraz, Matisyahu, Sublime with Rome, Taking Back Sunday, O.A.R., Pretty Lights, Pepper, Collie Buddz, The Wailers, Julian Marley, Stephen Marley, Slightly Stoopid, Gregory Isaacs, SOJA, Rebelution, and many more.

Tribal Seeds takes great pride in equally focusing on the art of producing high quality recorded music and the art of putting on an outstanding live show. The band maintains a strict regimen of tirelessly touring to spread their positive vibes and contagious tunes across the nation and beyond - playing shows as far as Mexico, Guam, and Aruba to continue expanding their reach. The band consistently performs for sold-out crowds and impressively has the keen ability to both cater to their fanbase while still pushing the limits of their music. The formula is working - Tribal Seeds currently boasts 200,000+ Facebook fans, 25,000+ Twitter followers - a representation of the network of steadfast fans that remain the heartbeat, pulse, and inspiration for the band to continue making music.

Tribal Seeds will release Representing on May 13th with iTunes Pre-Sale beginning on May 2nd. For more details visit www.tribalseeds.net.

Track Listing:

01. Representing

02. Rock The Night

03. Fill It Up feat. Gonzo & New Kingston

04. In Your Area feat. Kyle McDonald of Slightly Stoopid

05. Moonlight

06. Ruined

07. Blood Clot feat. Don Carlos

08. Undercover Lover feat. Gonzo

09. Night and Day

10. Herb Stock feat. Mykal Rose

11. Don't Wait

12. Lonely Night

Sun, 05/11/2014 - 2:56 pm

The soulful blues-rock 4-piece Arc & Stones announce today they will release their sophomore EP As You Were on June 10th.While only their second release since forming, this young Nashville-by-way-of-Brooklyn band has already been touring in direct support of the legendary rock band,KANSAS. For more information on the band and their new EP, visit: http://www.arcandstones.com.Arc & Stones is Dan Pellarin (vocals, guitar), Ben Cramer (guitar), Eddy Bayes (bass), and Joe Doino (drums). When embarking on this new EP, the band aimed to draw from elements of their initial self-titled EP while also bringing those ideas the next level, creating a singular work to reflect the band's previous year of growth and development. As Pellarin explains, "These songs came about through the past year. We felt that these six songs were an experience in itself, and with very different personalities, they mark very different but special times in a year that has been incredibly memorable for us."The band blends seamless harmonies, soulful lyrics, and heavy, yet technically impressive instrumentals, to bring a sound that fans of Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Keys, and Kings of Leon are already getting behind.The EP's strength and power is rooted in the stories behind the lyrics. Arc & Stones set out to create six individual tracks with lyrics that could lead listeners through a real journey, showcasing the band's impressive storytelling songwriting style. Tracks like "Walkin' In" and "Sweet & Vicious" paint vivid love and heartbreak stories - avoiding cliché lyrics and creating stories that feel as real to the listener as the experiences were to the band.While the tracks stand out distinctly from each other, the underlying theme of perseverance is central to the record and seen throughout. The theme kicks-off the EP in the initial track, "Control," a song Pellarin describes as "basically a f*** you to the people who only want to believe in you when you're successful." The message of perseverance comes up sporadically throughout the EP and culminates in the ode to never giving up "Caught on Fire," - an anthem for anyone who has been told not to take their dreams seriously. Pellarin explains, "This is a song for those people who, just like us, were told they couldn't do it, they couldn't break through, who couldn't catch fire, beat the odds, and despite it all... did. The dream is meant to be a reality."Arc & Stones' recent momentum can also be attributed to their range of appeal. The band creates a live show that young audiences adore - from the Brooklyn hipsters to Preppie college crowds, their tunes are infectious. Their two "hometown" venues cater perfectly to both - often playing to packed audiences in their original hometown of New York City, at the Bowery's Mercury Lounge and similarly in Nashville at The Basement. The band will celebrate their EP release on May 31st at Mercury Lounge in New York City.Formed in 2012, Pellarin and Cramer took their early ideas of playing music together in a band full-time from a post-grad dream into a reality. After graduating college in Miami, the duo moved back to their hometown of New York City to take advantage of their clear musical chemistry and began recording the songs what would later become their debut EP. In NYC, the duo quickly added their friend and bassist, Bayes, to the mix and completed the lineup landing an internet-ad-discovered, solid drummer Doino. The band remained in New York City and noticed the local buzz was growing rapidly as they were, promoting the debut EP and gigging along the East Coast. This gradual progession took a turn for the better when in 2013 the band was offered an opening slot to tour with KANSAS. That relationship paired with the band's southern rock vibe naturally led the four-piece to relocate to Nashville and there's been no turning back since.Arc & Stones will release As You Were on June 10th. For more information, visit: www.arcandstones.com.Track Listing:01. Control02. Walkin' In03. Wanted04. Sweet & Vicious05. Too Late06. Caught On FireTour Dates:May 29 - Westbury, NY @ Theatre at Westbury w/KANSASMay 30 - Englewood, NJ @ Bergan PAC w/KANSASMay 31 - New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge (EP Release Party)Jun 6 - Nashville, TN @ Schermerhorn Hall w/KANSASJun 7 - Fayetteville, GA @ Southern Ground Amphitheatre w/KANSASJune 10 - Jacksonville, FL @ Burro BarJun 19 - Charlotte, NC @ Crown Station PubJun 21 - Hopewell, VA @ Beacon Theatre w/KANSASJul 5 - San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theatre w/KANSASAug 2 - Bethlehem, PA @ MusikfestOct 9 - Salisbury, MA @ Blue Ocean Music Hall w/KANSAS

Fri, 06/20/2014 - 1:46 pm

The heavy NYC dirty funk 4-piece TAUK release the first details of their new album today. The 10-track full-length sophomore album entitled Collisions will be released July 22nd and features the band's signature sound - intensely melodic instrumental rock. After the success of their 2013 LP, Homunculus, that landed them into regular rotation on SiriusXM Jam On, the honor of winner Relix Magazine's "On The Verge" Poll, and a widespread grassroots fan following, the band teamed back up with their legendary Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson) to create Collisions.To Charlie Dolan, bassist for TAUK, this album is the natural progression following an album like Homunculus. "I like to think of this album as an extension of 'Homunculus," explains Dolan. "We took some of our favorite parts of that album and expanded on them with new sounds and musical flavors. Its music that makes you think, but can also make you dance." The album title itself for Collisions reflects the spirit of the band as a whole. Guitarist Matt Jalbert explains, "Being an instrumental band, our music is more about stirring up a feeling rather than meaning something specific. The word 'Collisions' lets your mind make up an image of its own. It's a little bit open ended, but at the same time powerful."The album art is a piece by Jeff Jordan, graphic artist who previously worked with Mars Volta among others. The puzzle-like art on Collisions reflects the band's goal for each musical composition they write. Alric "AC" Carter (keyboard/organ) explains, "in the art work its clear to see there are many parts that build the entire picture. Some parts play supporting roles and other sections are more visible. However, the most important aspect is the bigger picture."In support of Collisions, TAUK is hitting the festival and club scene hard this summer with their unique blend of experimental melodic prog rock and sexy grooves. The band's Summer lineup includes sets at major music festivals across the country including The Hudson Music Project, Floyd Fest, Catskill Chill Music Festival, Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Festival, Camp Barefoot, Bear Creek Music Festival, Art Outside, Mad Tea Party Jam, The Big What?, Blackstock Music Festival, Mantrabash, Abingdon Music Experience, Doah Fest, Pasture Palooza, Pink Moon Festival, and more to be announced soon. For the full list of tour dates, see below or visit:  http://www.taukband.com.TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of TAUK's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. TAUK has landed spots on the biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp, and The Allman Brothers' Peach Fest and played in direct support for some of the most respected names in music including The Funky Meters, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Lettuce, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, moe., Dopapod, Tim Reynolds & TR3, Tea Leaf Green, Toubab Krewe, The Mantras, The Revivalists and more.TAUK's chemistry can be attributed to their history. Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound over the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place. Since then the band has continued to push the envelope of their musical vision, creating instant fans across the country on a nightly basis.

Tue, 07/01/2014 - 2:52 pm

Bart Herbison, Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) President, said it best: "Get with Lucy, or get out of her way." The "Lucy" Herbison is raving about is the rising Country Singer/Songwriter Lucy Scholl who announces today she will release her new self-titled 5-track EP on July 22nd. The EP was recorded and produced in Nashville by Brandon Metcalf (He Is We, Second Hand Serenade, Due West) and draws comparisons to the pop sensibilities of Taylor Swift with the true country passion and songwriting style of Martina McBride and Carrie Underwood. For more information, visit: www.lucyscholl.com.While this will be her debut EP, Lucy Scholl is far from being a stranger to the music world. In early 2012, Lucy's very first song, "Walk with Me,"was used in a campaign for the National Arthritis Foundation's charity walks in Dallas. She has also landed opening billings with Tyler Ward,the country superstar who hit #5 on Billboard's Top Uncharted 100, plus performances with The Nashville Tribute BandDue West and more.At only 20-years-old, Lucy understood the importance of linking up with the best team possible to match the power and quality of her songs so linking up with Metcalf in Nashville was an obvious choice - even if it meant shuttling back and forth from her home in Dallas to the studio Nashville, all the while traveling the country on tour. To Lucy, the opportunity to work with at top producer in the capital of country music went beyond simply the outcome of the EP - she knew in order to grow as a singer and performer, she needed to be pushed to her limits. Metcalf succeeded in doing just that - forming an EP that truly represents the strength, power, and confidence Lucy embodies.There was one particular moment in the studio when, thanks to the encouragement of Metcalf as a producer, Lucy noticed a drastic turning point in her career. While recording the track "Blue Eyes," Metcalf asked why she was backing off the high note that should be the song's climax. "I'd always envisioned it being big," explains Lucy, "but I'd been trained - don't belt, don't be too loud, don't do these things. Some of my training had put me in a box." Still, she knew this note deserved to be huge. So with Metcalf's encouragement, she turned the mic off, tried it alone a few times, then asked Brandon to start rolling tape and started singing. Everyone in the studio went slack jawed. "That moment in particular,"recalls Lucy with a smile, "made me realize that I can be whoever I envision myself being."The 5-track EP features the powerhouse single "Feel Alright," available now on iTunes. The single showcases Lucy's energetic charm and undeniable talent. "'Feel Alright' was the first song I wrote after about a year hiatus/soul searching," explains Lucy. "It was the song that defined what the rest of the EP would be like."Lucy Scholl will release her self-titled EP on July 22nd. For more information and tour dates, visit: www.lucyscholl.com.

Mon, 09/01/2014 - 1:40 pm

The Dallas-based inventive contemporary rock band Somebody's Darling announces today that the pre-order for their new full-length album Adult Roommates, out September 16th, is now live on iTunes, here: http://bit.ly/SDiTunespreorder. Those who purchase the album will receive a free instant download of the first single "Bad Bad." Somebody's Darling teamed up with producer Beau Bedford (Old 97's, Sarah Jaffe, Home by Hovercraft) and producer/sound engineer Matt Pence (Midlake, Jason Isbell) to record the album at Echo Lab in Denton, TX, all on 2" analog tape. Check out new single "Bad Bad" on CULTURE COLLiDE, here:http://bit.ly/SDBadBad. For more information, visit: www.somebodysdarling.com.

Somebody's Darling is spearheaded by lead singer Amber Farris, whose unrefined yet tender vocals belt out blistering songs that command the attention of anyone in earshot. She is oft-likened to great singers such as Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, and Erika Wennerstrom of Heartless Bastards. Rounding out the band is David Ponder (lead guitar), Wade Cofer (bass/ vocals), Michael Talley (keys/vocals), and Nate Wedan (drums).

The forthcoming LP, Adult Roommates, is the band's third full-length release and their first new recorded music in two years. Fans of My Morning Jacket, Wilco, Dawes, and the Black Keys will appreciate the band's unique sound - with roots in live expression rather than that studio-perfected sort of vibe, drawing on a range of vintage influences. On their new single, "Bad Bad," the band tells us, "Call it a kiss-off, or maybe a bemused dismissal of someone (anyone, really) who places themselves upon a pedestal of their own making, or somebody whose character seems to center more on style than substance. Of course the flip side of the coin is that now I have to make good on the promise that "I'll show you bad", lest I fall under similar scrutiny. In a nutshell it's about putting your money where your mouth is, and backing up your words and appearances with action and intention."

Somebody's Darling has played relentlessly over the last five years, clocking in over 500 shows through multiple headlining tours, numerous festival stops, and gigs in direct support of great artists such as Shovels & RopeDeer TickLucero and Divine Fits. The group has gained such a strong reputation across Texas - with their frenetic performances and energetic live show - that they were recently honored by Red Bull Music and invited to become an official Red Bull Sound Select Artist.

Somebody's Darling loyal Dallas fanbase has grown immensely over the years and helped the band get recognized by top local press as well. The band has received rave album and show reviews from The Dallas Morning NewsThe Fort Worth Star Telegram and the Dallas Observer and in support of their previous full-length album, the band was invited to Rock Island to perform a session at the legendary Daytrotter studios. In the review of their session, Daytrotter's founder raved "Farris is a force as a singer, as a conveyor of hopefulness and of despair."

Somebody's Darling will release Adult Roommates on September 16, 2014. For more information, visit www.somebodysdarling.com.

Tue, 09/02/2014 - 2:54 pm

Chicago's Pop-Folk-Rock outfit The Future Laureates announce today they will release their forthcoming EP Here and After on September 23rd. The band teamed up with Grammy-nominated producer Chris Grainger, best known for albums with Wilco, Switchfoot, and Sixpence None the Richer (including hits "Kiss Me" and "There She Goes"). Grainger has also engineered albums for top artists ranging from Old Crow Medicine Show to The Dirty Dozen Brass Band to his own avant-garde jazz group with Jeff Coffin of Dave Matthews Band. For more information on the new EP, visit: www.thefuturelaureates.com.

To the band's co-frontman/ guitarist Danny SuricoHere and After represents the band's most honest form of music. "We feel like this record is a more accurate representation of our live sound," explains Surico. "The songwriting and our performance plays to our individual and collective strengths and pulls from varied influences like The Beatles, Otis Redding, and WALK THE MOON."

Along with Surico, The Future Laureates are Matthew Daigler (vocals and ukulele), James Hyde (bass and vocals), Andrew Bockelman(lead guitar and vocals) and Rob Durkee (drums). On Here and After, the band delves into a variety of new subject matter, ranging from an apocalyptic escape, to modern love songs, to a eulogy of Don Quixote, told from the perspective of his loyal servant. They also flex some new musical muscles, pulling from their influences in modern rock, classic pop, rhythmic folk, and 60's soul.

The new album is a showcase of vibrant and mature songcraft brought to life with the help of producer, Chris Grainger. "Chris did a phenomenal job allowing for deliberation and discussion and input, which makes everyone feel involved and part of the process, but he's able to balance that with an efficiency that doesn't let anyone get bogged down in the details," adds Surico. "In our opinion, it's the quickest and best sounding record we've made to date."

The Future Laureates will support the record on tour this fall, hitting major festivals like the Fashion Meets Music Festival in Columbus, OH with headliners Cold War Kids and Local Natives, plus the CMJ Music Marathon in New York City in October. The band will proudly be holding their album release show on September 27th in their hometown of Chicago at Martyrs'.

While the The Future Laureates are thrilled for their upcoming fall tour that will take them to major cities across the US, they are far from strangers to the road. The Future Laureates have played over six years of local and regional shows, highlighted by performances at SXSW and Summerfest, along with airplay on hundreds of college radio stations across North America. In past years the band has shared crowds with the likes of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes, Drive-By Truckers, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, hellogoodbye, Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons, and Dawes.

On the brink of a major fall release and tour, Surico reflects on the underlying excitement stirring beneath the surface of each band member in The Future Laureates. "It's an exciting time for our band.  Now, more than ever before, we understand who we are and that we're closer than ever to actually living our dream of working as full-time musicians."

The Future Laureates will release Here and After on September 23rd. For more information, visit www.thefuturelaureates.com.

Track Listing:

01. Sinners and Saints

02. Angela

03. Make Believe

04. Down

05. Take It As It Comes

--

Upcoming Tour Dates:

8.30 - Columbus, OH @ Fashion Meets Music Festival

8.31 - Columbus, OH @ Big Band *Fashion Meets Music Festival After Party*

9.04 - New York, NY @ Piano's

9.06 - Philadelphia, PA @ Connie's Ric Rac

9.25 - Champaign, IL @ Cowboy Monkey

9.26 - Morton Grove, IL @ Oktoberfest

9.27 - Chicago, IL @ Martyrs' **Album Release Show**

10.03 - Hamtramck, MI @ New Dodge Lounge

10.22 -10.24 - New York, NY @ CMJ Music Marathon (showcases TBA)

11.14 - Dayton, OH @ Canal Public House

11.15 - Nashville, TN @ Venue TBA

11.21 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Acoustic Underground presents @ Mayne Stage

11.22 - Minneapolis, MN @ The Fallout

Wed, 09/17/2014 - 9:58 am

North Carolina's BIG Something are excited to announce their new album, Truth SerumTruth Serum, the band's third full-length album, will be released on November 4th, and features a guest appearance from NYC turntablist, DJ Logic. With a powerful sound that is both refreshingly original and yet classic in its approach, BIG Something fuses elements of rock, pop, funk, jazz and improv, in order to take listeners on a journey through a myriad of musical styles. For more information on BIG Something, please visit:www.bigsomething.net.

Formed in 2009, BIG Something is one of the most exciting new rock bands to emerge from the southeast. The band features Nick MacDaniels(guitars, vocals), Doug Marshall (bass), Josh Kagel (keys, synth, trumpet), Casey Cranford (sax, EWI), Jesse Hensley (lead guitar), and Ben Vinograd (drums). With the help of Grammy-Nominated producer John Custer (Corrosion of Conformity, Cry of Love, Dag), the group recorded and released their 2010 debut concept album, Stories from the Middle of Nowhere, which quickly captured Home Grown Music Network's 2010 Album Of The Year Award. Stories from the Middle of Nowhere was followed up by the widely well-received live album, Live from Uranus, as well as 2013's Self-Titled.

After several years of relentless touring, the band has performed across the country as direct support for the likes of Galactic, moe., The B52s, Robert Randolph and The Family Band, Zach Deputy, DJ Logic, Toubab Krewe, and countless other up and coming artists. In turn, they have become a high demand festival act, and have appeared at FloydFest, Camp Barefoot, Blackwater, Strangecreek, Wormtown, Smilefest, Mantrabash, NC Music & Arts Festival, Pink Moon, Jerry Garcia's Birthday Bash, Gathering of The Chaffee, Front Porch Fest, Domefest, and many more. BIG Something also hosts their own annual summer music festival and campout in Mebane, NC called The Big What?, which has sold out two years in a row, further propelling this imaginative, entertaining, and musically progressive jamband rooted in traditional American music of the southeast to a much wider national audience.

On the release of their new album, drummer Ben Vinograd tells us, "This album is the best representation of who we are on tape; nearly 5 years of relentless touring, practicing, and writing has culminated into one high energy banger of an album. When people ask what we sound like, I want to hand them this." Singer/guitarist Nick MacDaniels adds, "This is the best energy we've ever had in the studio. All of the songs were tracked live as a 6 piece and we really hit some great peaks and moments together."

BIG Something will release their new album, Truth Serum, on November 4th, 2014.

Thu, 10/16/2014 - 9:51 am

Heavy instrumental rock fusion 4-piece TAUK is excited to announce that they will be joining Brooklyn-based funksters Turkuaz for their first annual New Year's Eve Extravanganza: The Ball Drop. This "dress to impress" gala affair presented by the Rock n Roll Resort and Hoplite will also include performances from Consider The SourceSpiritual RezThe Primate FiascoMister F, and Danny Pease & The Regulators. Room packages, VIP Rockstar passes, and NYE tickets go on-sale October 15th. For more information, please visit: http://rocknrollresort.com/TheBallDrop/

TAUK released their much-anticipated LP Collisions on July 22nd. Collisions features the band's signature sound guided again by legendary Grammy-Winning Producer Robert Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson). The album's experimental melodic prog rock and sexy grooves can be streamed in full on The Village Voice, as well as on Spotify, and is available for download on BandCamp and iTunes. TAUK's new songs, "MindShift" and "Sweet Revenge," off Collisions has been added into regular rotation on Sirius XM Jam On, and can be heard alongside TAUK's previous singles, "In the Basement of the Alamo" and "Dead Signal," both songs from the band's 2013 LP, Homunculus.

The buzz surrounding last year's Homunculus release cultivated TAUK's widespread and growing grassroots fan following - now dubbed the "STAUKers" - who voted TAUK to win Relix Magazine's "On The Verge" Poll in the Spring of 2014 and helped to land the band on some of this year's biggest festivals including LOCKN', The Hudson Music Project, Floyd Fest, Catskill Chill Music Festival, Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Festival, Camp Barefoot, Bear Creek Music Festival, Art Outside, Mad Tea Party Jam, The Big What?, Blackstock Music Festival, Mantrabash, Abingdon Music Experience, Doah Fest, Pasture Palooza, Pink Moon Festival and more. For the full list of tour dates, see below or visit: http://www.taukband.com.

TAUK manages to create a live show experience to match their masterfully produced recordings.  The unique chemistry and relaxed-focus of TAUK's performance is undeniable, but their ability to create immensely melodic and emotional music without a vocal lead is what continues to captivate and impress music lovers across all genres. TAUK has landed spots on the biggest festivals such as Bonnaroo, The Hangout Music Festival, Summer Camp, and The Allman Brothers' Peach Fest and played in direct support for some of the most respected names in music including The Funky Meters, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Lettuce, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, moe., Dopapod, Tim Reynolds & TR3, Tea Leaf Green, Toubab Krewe, The Mantras, The Revivalists and more.

TAUK's chemistry can be attributed to their history. Forming in middle school, a majority of TAUK's members have been playing together for over a decade. The group experimented with their sound over the years both individually while studying at top music universities and conservatories, and together as a band - always working to find their ideal sound. It wasn't until 2012 with the addition of drummer, Isaac Teel, and the realization the band could build a fan base around a completely instrumental act, that the pieces fell into place. Since then the band has continued to push the envelope of their musical vision, creating instant fans across the country on a nightly basis.

Sat, 12/06/2014 - 1:57 pm

Iowa-based American indie rock band, The Penny Serfs, are excited to announce their new album, Like Eating Glass, which will be released on January 20th2015. The album acts as a vehicle for which The Penny Serfs search for their identity in this modern world run by money; fueled by sexism and fear. These songs are the band's way of confronting the conundrums and frustrations that life throws. For more information, please visit: www.ThePennySerfs.com.

Formed in 2012 and hailing from all parts of the country - Brooklyn, NY to Scottsdale, AZ - Michael Loy (lead vocals, guitar),Andrew Linley (bass, vocals), Stu Tenold (keyboards, vocals) and Kyle Lewis (drums), found common ground in working with successful artists, The National and Regina Spektor, on the production side of the music business. As time passed, the group decided that working on the sidelines just wasn't fulfilling enough. Between working gigs with other bands and schlepping gear at local day jobs, the band took their inspiration and flew to Stone Mountain, Georgia to record with producer Rick Beato(NeedtobreatheBoys Like GirlsShinedown). The result is the upcoming release, Like Eating Glass. The six tracks on the album cover a wide array of subjects and conflicts in everyday American life.

The Penny Serfs call on British icons Ray Davies and John Lennon as well as American artists Kurt Cobain and Ian MacKayeas the major source of inspiration for the band. The influences these artists have over the band are prominent in every song - from the layered guitar riffs and trippy synthesizer harmonies to the funk rhythm - all elements blending together seamlessly to make their sound truly unique.

The first single off the EP, "Dead Love", with lyrics like "lovers mistake, you take too much of it and you waste it," is a look into the future and how time has made it hard to trust anyone, which leave mistakes and skeletons with no closet to hide in. Ultimately, it's about trying to love someone without masking any inner demons or a wicked past.

Regarding the upcoming release, The Penny Serfs tell us, "the album is an approach at the idea of a one true love being derailed by the internet paradox: being so connected to everything yet loneliness is everywhere. All of the songs show the painful reality that every battery must have a positive and a negative. With life must come death, with light must come darkness, and as the sun rises it must always set for the world to keep spinning."

The Penny Serfs will release Like Eating Glass on January 20th, 2015.

Wed, 01/14/2015 - 2:09 pm

The RedGorilla Music Fest will take place from Monday, March 16th to Saturday, March 21st in venues on 6th Street, right in the heart of all the action in Austin, TX. The event is free to attend and open to the general public. RedGorilla Music Fest has stayed true to their original mission to promote up-and-coming independent music in all genres and help independent artists further their careers. Since the creation of this tastemaker event in 2001, major artists have graced the festival such as Imagine Dragons, Kendrick Lamar, Macklemore, Foster The People, The National, Big Krit, Feist, Talib Kweli, Cage The Elephant, Allen Stone, Andrew W.K.,and hundreds more.

RedGorilla Music Fest is the premier music festival to be a part of during Austin's most significant week of the year for the music industry. Over the years, some of the hottest up-and-coming acts in the world have been showcased by RedGorilla Music Fest. As a result, RedGorilla Music Fest has received international media attention and a reputation for being the go-to showcase for discovering new music. Launched as a four-band showcase, the event quickly grew and was eventually branded in 2007 as the RedGorilla Music Fest. Each year since then, the festival has hosted 300-500 bands, DJs and solo artists of all genres on up to 11 different stages located right on 6th street.

For more information and updates, please visit: www.RedGorillaMusic.com.

Thu, 01/29/2015 - 5:04 pm

Houston's award-winning 10-piece The Suffers have officially released their new Make Some Room EP today! Following this highly anticipated release, The Suffers will kick off their West Coast Tour on February 11th, playing 11 cities along the way. Stream the EP on Consequence of Sound, here: http://bit.ly/1DItGXU. Purchase the EP on iTunes, here: http://bit.ly/1C3drD0.

Established in 2011, The Suffers' lineup was curated by bassist Adam Castaneda and vocalist/keyboardist Pat Kelly, who brought on trumpet player Jon Durbin, trombonist Michael Razo,guitarist Kevin Bernier, percussionist Jose "Chapy" Luna, and drummer/vocalist Nick Zamora. Jazz saxophonist Cory Wilson and guitarist/vocalist Alex Zamora filled out the rhythm section, while frontwoman Kam Franklin topped off the group with soaring vocals.

It's hard to put just one label on The Suffers' sound - the best way to describe them is feel good music, which combines elements of classic American soul intertwined with rock & roll. The band's sincerity and emotion are laid bare in their music, which has garnered an audience so broad and varied that they may prove to be the panacea for a jaded and stratified live music scene.

In a short time, the band has progressed from packing Houston venues to accepting invitations for featured performances at Voodoo Music + Arts Experience 2014, SXSW 2014Dallas' Index and Homegrown FestivalsHouston's Free Press Summer FestivalUntapped Festival, and CMJ Music Marathon 2014. The Suffers have since joined the ranks of Red Bull Sound Select and have remained a local favorite, accepting eleven Houston Press Music Awards in three years. Recently, the band supported Lee Fields & The Expressions and performed at Big D NYE - the largest New Year's Eve celebration in the Central Time Zone!

The Suffers' EP will draw people onto the dance floor with "Gwan," a sweaty, afro-beat inspired song about getting down, rounded out by uplifting soul cuts like "Stay" and the epic title track "Make Some Room." The EP's only respite comes in the form of "Giver," a smoky, throbbing blues ballad that will have listeners captivated.

With excitement towards the EP release, Franklin explains: "These songs are just a small introduction to who we are. The inspirations are drawn from our families, culture, and personal relationships. The live recording experience forced us to step away from what we were used to, but the end result is something we are all truly proud of."

The Suffers have officially released their new Make Some Room EP January 20, 2015.

West Coast Tour:

Feb 11 - Denver, CO @ Lost Lake Lounge

Feb 13 - Huntsville, UT @ Snowbasin Resort

Feb 14 - Huntsville, UT @ Snowbasin Resort

Feb 15 - Boise, ID @ The Crux 

Feb 17 - Seattle, WA @ Sunset Tavern 

Feb 18 - Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios 

Feb 20 - Lake Tahoe, NV @ Crystal Bay Casino

Feb 21 - Santa Cruz, CA @ TBD

Feb 22 - San Francisco, CA @ Amnesia 

Feb 26 - Los Angeles, CA @ Bootleg Bar

Feb 27 - San Diego, CA @ Seven Grand 

Feb 28 - Indio, CA @ 4th Annual Rhythm, Wine and Brews Festival

March 1 - Phoenix, AZ @ Rhythm Room

May 15-17 - Gulf Shores, AL @ Hangout Music Festival

Thu, 02/05/2015 - 5:59 pm

Billboard.com is hosting an exclusive clip of the upcoming film Miracles Out Of Nowhere, the documentary film on KANSAS and the band's incredible career. The film clip is also paired with an exclusive interview with KANSAS drummer Phil Ehart, which can be seen here: http://bit.ly/1zRQW3q      

Miracles Out Of Nowhere recently had its worldwide premiere at the 30th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival to fan and critic praises. A special Q+A moderated by iconic Rolling Stone journalist David Wild was held directly after the screening with director Charley Randazzo, producer Budd Carr and drummer Phil Ehart.

The film will be officially released on March 24th, 2015 and is available for pre-order at this link: http://www.miraclesoutofnowhere.com/. You can also pre-order Miracles Out Of Nowhere on Amazon here: http://amzn.to/1KsNbTh.

2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of KANSAS, the band's debut album. To commemorate the occasion, the classic KANSAS lineup reunited, for the first time in more than 30 years; at the place their incredible journey began, Topeka, Kansas! There, they relived the incredible untold story of one of the most successful American rock bands of their era.  Returning to monumental career landmarks in their hometown, as well as sharing untold memories ranging from touring to songwriting and recording, the band shares how the smash hit "Dust in the Wind" was just a passing comment away from never being recorded!  Viewers will hear the band tell stories about recording in the studio next to John Lennon, a backstage fight with Aerosmith's Steven Tyler, and how the words "free beer" changed their lives forever! Miracles Out of Nowhere presents KANSAS in a way they have never before been seen.

The documentary features interviews from legendary Queen guitarist and former tour mate Brian May, acclaimed producer Brendan O'Brien, Rolling Stone journalist David Wild, and more. Featured prominently is country icon Garth Brooks, who counts KANSAS, alongside The Beatles and the Eagles, as one of his greatest inspirations. These extraordinary new insights are coupled with rare and unseen footage, including live performances and candid, fan-shot footage of the band on the road. Miracles Out of Nowhere offers an unprecedented look at the incredible ascent of KANSAS, a story that will appeal to new fans and veteran enthusiasts alike.

Mon, 02/09/2015 - 2:32 pm

The indie rock / forest pop trio, Mercies, will release their sophomore LP, Blue Against Green, on March 31st, 2015 via Randm Records. Drawing on similar thought-provoking lyrics and unique instrumental parts as their previous release, this 11-track masterpiece will entrance you into a world similar to the likes of Fleet Foxes, Bon Iver, and Grizzly Bear, adding their own impressive artwork as the final punch. For more information, please visit: www.MerciesMusic.com.

Mercies began in 2009 as a creative outlet for Josh Rheault and Sammy Dent. After some time of casually exchanging demos, the collaboration turned into a serious musical partnership. Working out of an old tobacco barn in rural northern Connecticut, Rheault and Dent continued writing while Rheault and his family restored “The Barn” into a recording and rehearsal space. In the barn during the harsh New England winter, the band set up drums and amps on dirt floors, running extension cords to the nearby house for power. They would wait until the last minute to unplug the heaters before recording because there were not enough outlets to run both the recording equipment and have heat. As a result, Mercies’ debut LP Three Thousand Days was born and their third band member, Jordan Flower, had joined. Three Thousand Days is a hand-crafted record, devoid of many studio tricks. The pair made a rule of not editing or “fixing” performances in post-production - the record would only include layers of natural instruments, recorded in a natural space, sometimes using various tools that were lying around during the remodel process as percussion. “The Barn” proved to be the creative center point for Mercies, forever influencing the band’s musical approach and overall style.

Since then, the band has toured extensively around the US including multiple trips to CMJ Music Marathon and South by Southwest, as well as releasing The Ballet EP in collaboration with The Charlottesville Ballet and a two-song single, Vultures.

Mercies relocated to Los Angeles in late 2013 and shortly after signed with Randm Records. This time, the band had the new experience of recording exclusively in a studio. Working with producer Mike Butler at Lost Ark Studio in San Diego, Mercies further explored their love of vintage gear and natural space, but this time they were able to play with studio isolation and Butler’s adventurous recording style, giving their new release added depth and dimension. The album contains various subject matters spread across the eleven tracks, such as the concept of persistence and inspiration on “Zalea”, the complexity of growing older on “Deep Sleeper”, and the overall mission of restlessness on the intro track “Every Echo.”

On their sophomore LP, Dent tells us, “Blue Against Green is a culmination of our life experiences, both professional and personal. It’s about our move to the west coast and the subsequent life changes, the desire to venture out into the unknown, and the will to keep moving forward.”

Mercies will release Blue Against Green on March 31st, 2015 via Randm Records.

 

Thu, 05/07/2015 - 2:27 pm

Australian indie force of nature Skipping Girl Vinegar has teamed up with EARMILK to exclusively premiere their new video for "Dance Again" today! "Dance Again" is the lead single from their new album The Great Wave, which officially dropped on April 3rd and was produced by Brad Jones (Josh Rouse, Justin Townes Earle), who flew out to Australia specifically to work with the band after hearing the album demos. Watch "Dance Again" on EARMILK, here: http://bit.ly/1yTvtJ8

A sonic explosion of color, lead single "Dance Again" combines a driving organic rhythm section and synths together with gang-chanted lyrics "take me right back I wanna do it over", to bring back the feeling of that seemingly endless summer between the end of high school and wherever life's great wave took us afterwards. Shot from 14,000 ft, the clip features a couple of mysterious golden skydivers in custom-made jumpsuits, freefalling through the clouds above the very same Victorian coastline that the album was written and recorded.

Skipping Girl Vinegar are one of Australia's most talked about bands, made up of Chris Helm (Drums, BV's, Melodica), Kelly Lane (Violin, BV's, Percussion, Keyboards), Mark Lang (Vocals, Guitar, Banjo, Soundscape Textures), Sare Lang (Bass, BV's, Percussion), and Amanthi Lynch (Piano, Keyboards, BV's, Percussion). The band recently launched their anticipated third album The Great Wave from the main stage of one of Australia's largest most iconic festivals, Byron Bay Bluesfest.

Reflecting on the events that led up to The Great Wave, singer/songwriter Mark Lang explains,   "The last two years have seen us travel from the heights of radio and agents opening up for the band in the US, to the crashing heartbreak of my wife being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. We put the record and everything else on hold, went to ground and focused all our love and energy onto her, and thankfully - we are one of the fortunate ones. What I valued and prioritized previously had now shifted, affecting the very core of how I wanted to communicate through music"

Celebrated songwriters, the band have released two critically acclaimed albums to date; Sift the Noise and Keep Calm, Carry the Monkey that made many 'Album of the Year' lists, receiving extensive radio play on U.S. college radio, Australian national youth broadcaster Triple J, ABC and community radio nationwide, as well as thrilling audiences at many of Australia's premiere festivals including Splendour In The Grass, Falls, Woodford and more.

No strangers to the U.S. music scene, Skipping Girl Vinegar charted on the U.S. CMJ charts with their Chase The Sun EP and were invited to play CMJ Music Marathon in 2012 alongside showcases in Los Angeles & Nashville. The subsequent U.S. tour saw them climb the CMJ charts, featuring seven weeks inside the Top 100 with numerous #1 and #2 positions across the U.S. including 46 Top 10s.

Tue, 08/11/2015 - 11:19 am

UTOPiAfest has officially announced the daily schedule for their seventh annual festival, taking place in Utopia, TX over Labor Day weekend (September 4-6, 2015). Weekend and Day Passes are on sale now, here: http://www.utopiafest.com/tickets. Tier-5 Priced Weekend Tickets are available now. UTOPiAfest has also partnered with REI, Real Ale, Lagunitas, and YETI for an exclusive Ultimate Camping Music Experience Giveaway, where one lucky winner will receive 2 All Access passes, a pre-set up campsite from REI with a tent, chairs, hammock, 2 sleeping bags, pads, pillows, and a lantern (for weekend use only), a stocked YETI cooler, free UTOPiAfest merch, and exclusive viewing from the Arrowhead Stage Eagle's Nest during one set. The contest ends this Friday, August 14th.

UTOPiAfest is a unique campout festival offering mind-blowing musical performances and West Texas Hill Country sunsets. Presented in a natural amphitheater on the 1,000-acre Four Sisters Ranch (between Garner State Park and Lost Maples), UTOPiAfest is a true alternative to the large multiple-stage festivals that often favor quantity over a quality audience experience. With only two stages and only 2000 tickets being sold, fans will have plenty of space to dance and enjoy full sets by world-touring bands from a variety of genres. Thoughtfully designed to allow creativity, music, and new friendships to flourish in a unique and intimate setting, UTOPiAfest is bringing back the basics by showing an unparalleled hospitality to both artists and music fans. Festival attendees can enjoy their free camping (cabin and RV lodging is also available), and while there are plenty of options for dining in their food forest, everyone is welcome to bring their own drinks and food under the festival's open BYOB policy. To purchase tickets and check out the full line-up, including Explosions In The Sky, Charles Bradley & His Extraordinaires, tune-yards, of Montreal, RJD2, Leftover Salmon, Wild Child, Man Man and more, please visit: http://www.utopiafest.com/.

UTOPiAfest was founded on the belief that a music festival should be experience-centered. One set in beautiful, natural surroundings where the positive energy from the land is palpable; a place where you find and meet more friends than strangers. UTOPiAfest's CEA (Chief Experiential Architect), Travis Sutherland explains, "We think it should be more meaningful than just watching a show. It should be a place where individuals and communities grow and learn. Participants should feel free to be and express their truest selves, and contribute to the experience. They should be able to be in front of the stage, or have plenty of room to dance. They should be able to see the stage from camp, or be isolated from the crowd. Camping and parking should be free. We see fences getting in the way of a good time. There should be no music overlap - music bleed or hard choices between bands. There should be performances where the whole audience is absolutely attentive, engaged, and phoneless. At such a fest you can play a round of disc golf, attend a workshop or yoga class, or go on a bike ride before you see the first set. The experience should be accessible to all ages, and enjoyed with your whole family. You should never have to feel crowded or wait unreasonably long in a line. We believe you should be able to bring your own beer and cook your own food. We believe a music festival should be seamless, effortless, and timeless."

The festival is also offering a limited number of Hassle Free Tent Rentals, which include a pre-set up tent, cots or air mattresses, chairs, coolers, and a lantern. Festival merchandise, including t-shirts, tank tops, and hoodies, is available as well and can be ordered now, here: http://bit.ly/1DquTPu.

Weekend and Day Passes for the festival are on sale now: http://www.utopiafest.com/tickets/

Website: http://www.utopiafest.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/utopiafest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/UTOPiAfest
Instagram: https://instagram.com/utopiafest

Thu, 08/20/2015 - 2:13 pm

Soulful pop rocker, Steven Roth has teamed up with CLASH Magazine to exclusively premiere his new single "Good Times Go So Fast" today! With a lithe guitar, urgent upbeat percussion, piano fire, and unforgettable chant, the track immediately transfixes. Listen to "Good Times Go So Fast" on CLASH Magazine, here: http://bit.ly/1DNg8wb

Over the last year, Roth hit the studio in Los Angeles alongside producers Sean Hurley and Wayne Jobson to create his 2015 EP featuring the single "Good Times Go So Fast." It marks a shift in sound, naturally progressing from the organic soundscapes of his first offering with a modern fire. With an undeniable hook and vivid lyrics, he's ready to captivate once more.

With excitement towards the new release, Roth explains, "I wanted to say something and get some fresh music out there. This music maintains my sense of melody and influences, but it's more modern-without me being so intent on recording everything the way The Beatles did! I'm always looking to develop the style, create something different, and push the boundaries."

Since releasing his 2013 solo debut, Let It In, Roth had the honor of opening numerous shows for The Who-at the personal request of the band-playing with them at LA's Staples Center and NYC's Madison Square Garden. He also has opening gigs for artists including Audioslave, Robert Plant, Dave Grohl and Elvis Costello under his belt - as well as a headlining showcase hosted by Counting Crows' frontman Adam Duritz and recording sessions with Devo's Jerry Casale.

For more information, please visit: http://www.stevenrothmusic.com

Mon, 11/23/2015 - 7:26 pm

To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) has launched their brand new "Music is a Safe Place" campaign in light of the recent tragedy at La Bataclan in Paris, as well as the attacks in Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria. The campaign's central theme - "Music is a Safe Place" - first appeared in the original TWLOHA story nearly 10 years ago. T-shirts featuring the statement are on sale now, and for each shirt sold TWLOHA will be donating $7 to Preemptive Love Coalition. According to Jeremy Courtney, founder of Preemptive Love Coalition, "Mental health care is a seriously under-explored and under-capitalized component of stemming the outflow of refugees from this Syria/Iraq conflict. If we want to help refugees, we have to invest in mental health care." For more information, or to purchase a "Music Is A Safe Place" t-shirt, please visit: twloha.com.

"May we be the generation that chooses love not only when it is convenient, not simply based on color or border or flag. May we be the generation that believes every life matters. Every single person. Every single place."

           - TWLOHA founder, Jamie Tworkwoski

To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since its start in 2006, TWLOHA has donated over $1.5 million directly into treatment and recovery and answered over 180,000 messages from over 100 countries.

This past September TWLOHA wrapped its 4th annual campaign to honor National Suicide Prevention Week and World Suicide Prevention Day. The organization was overwhelmed by the amount of love and support shown during this year's campaign, titled "We'll See You Tomorrow."Nearly $83K was raised for treatment and counseling, and support was seen from numerous celebrities including actress Jessica Chastain, actor Jared Padalecki, and USA soccer star Alex Morgan. TWLOHA also participated in events in Toronto, Chicago, and Nashville before wrapping up the week in Minneapolis with two final events: one with the Minnesota National Guard and the second featuring a special pop-up shop at the Mall of America.

Wed, 12/09/2015 - 5:53 pm

Brooklyn-based alternative folk duo The Bergamot have announced the February 11th, 2016release of their new album Tones as well as their upcoming 48 State "Unity Tour." At each stop of the tour, The Bergamot will be inviting fans to sign their car as a symbol of unity.  The "Unity Tour" kicks off in NYC on January 2nd, 2016, with a homecoming in South Bend, IN on April 2nd. It also marks the band's last tour in their 2002 Volvo, which has racked up over 263,000 miles throughout their history of touring.

The Bergamot recently launched The Unity Collective USA Kickstarter in hopes of raising $15,000 to help fund the upcoming tour. The money will be used to maintain the Volvo throughout the tour, in addition to documenting the entire experience and providing updates to fans along the way. Rewards for backing the Kickstarter include credits in the "Unity Tour" documentaryUnity Tour t-shirtspersonalized videogramspersonal songs, and the opportunity to book a private house concert. For more information on The Bergamot and the "Unity Tour," please visit: www.thebergamot.com.

Consisting of husband-and-wife duo Nathaniel Paul Hoff and Jillian Speece, The Bergamot arrived on the international music scene in 2012 when they won Bud Light Battle of the Bands. Since then, the band has seen their popularity balloon, taking them from coast to coast and from continent to continent.

Drawing upon influences such as Pink FloydThe BeatlesJoni MitchellThe Dave Matthews Band and Bob Dylan, The Bergamot writes songs that are uplifting, catchy, and enchanting as Jillian's velvety alto voice blends seamlessly with Nathaniel's ethereal vocals to create dynamic harmonies. The band weaves intimate storytelling with articulate instrumentation, crafting an innovative indie folk-rock sound that combines both the joys and heartaches of life into a story. Since meeting in their hometown of South Bend, Indiana in 2003, Nathaniel and Jillian have released three albums and toured extensively across North America and Europe.

Thanks to their uplifting and infectiously sweet sound, The Bergamot has been taking the music world by storm - earning the affection and admiration of BuzzFeed, Daytrotter, The Aquarian Weekly, ICON Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Brooklyn Vegan, Kings of A&R, The Deli Magazine, and so many more, as well as a recent placement on ABC's "Blood & Oil." The Bergamot have also opened up for artists such as All American RejectsYoung The Giant, and Ben Sollee, as well as performed at SXSWTaste of ChicagoThe Traverse City Film Festivaland Bud Lights Port Paradise Music Festival.

The Bergamot will be releasing their new album Tones on February 11th, 2016. For more information on The Bergamot, please visit:www.thebergamot.com.

Tones Tracklisting:

1. Forget About Tomorrow

2. Tones

3. Burst Out

4. The Bends

5. Alive

6. Fade Away

7. School Notes

8. Remedy

9. Miles

10. Next To You

11. Money Honey

12. Feels The Same

 

Upcoming Tour Dates:

12/12 - New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall

1/2 - New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall

2/11 - Clarkston, GA @ Georgia Perimeter College

3/31 - St. Paul, MN @ University of St. Thomas

4/2 - South Bend, IN @ The Morris Civic

Thu, 01/07/2016 - 11:55 am

Houston's award-winning 10-piece ensemble, The Suffers have teamed up with Billboard to exclusively premiere their new single "Peanuts" today! "Peanuts" is the newest single to release off of the band's upcoming self-titled album. The Suffers will be kicking off a 20-city tour next month supporting Lake Street Dive, launching on the heels of their February 12th album release. Pre-order The Suffers' album, here: radi.al/TheSuffersLP. Listen to "Peanuts" on Billboard, here: http://bit.ly/1UzKF3B.

Last year brought the band to new heights, as they played 150+ shows across North America, visited NPR in Washington, DC for a Tiny Desk Concert, and made their national television debut on Late Show With David Letterman.

Established in 2011, The Suffers' lineup was curated by bassist Adam Castaneda and vocalist/keyboardist Pat Kelly, who brought on trumpet player Jon Durbin, trombonist Michael Razo,guitarist Kevin Bernier, percussionist Jose "Chapy" Luna, and drummer/vocalist Nick Zamora. Jazz saxophonist Cory Wilson and guitarist/vocalist Alex Zamora filled out the rhythm section, while frontwoman Kam Franklin topped off the group with soaring vocals.

In a short time, the band has progressed from packing Houston venues to accepting invitations for featured performances at Hangout Music Festival, Pemberton Music Festival, Austin City Limits, Newport Folk Festival, Landmark Music Festival, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, LouFest, AmericanaFest, UTOPiAfest, SXSW, Free Press Summer Festival, Untapped Festival, CMJ Music Marathon, and more. The Suffers have joined the ranks of Red Bull Sound Select and have remained a local favorite, accepting 20 Houston Press Music Awards in the last three years.

The Suffers are set to release their self-titled album on February 12, 2016. For further information on The Suffers, please visit: www.thesuffers.com. Pre-order The Suffers' album, here: radi.al/TheSuffersLP.

Upcoming Shows:

** = W/ Lake Street Dive

^^ = W/ Galactic

2/18 - Fayetteville, AR @ George's Majestic Lounge^^

2/19 - Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall^^

2/20 - Denver, CO @ The Fillmore^^

2/22 - Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom**

2/23 - Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theater**

2/24 - San Diego, CA @ Observatory North Park**

2/26 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern**

2/27 - San Franscisco, CA @ The Masonic**

2/28 - Reno, NV @ Cargo Concert Hall**

3/1 - Vancouver, BC @ Imperial**

3/2 - Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom**

3/3 - Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theater**

3/10 - Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue**

3/11 - Chicago, IL @ The Vic Theatre**

3/14 - Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues**

3/15 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall**

3/16 - Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Theatre**

3/18 - Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore**

3/19 - Richmond, VA @ The National**

3/21 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club**

3/23 - Boston, MA @ House of Blues**

3/25 - New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre**

3/26 - Portland, ME @ The State Theatre**

3/31 - Athens, GA @ Slingshot Festival

4/1 - Savannah, GA @ Savannah Music Festival

4/15 - Driftwood, TX @ Old Settler's Music Festival

5/27-5/29 - Napa, CA @ BottleRock

7/15-7/17 - Louisville, KY @ Forecastle Festival

Thu, 02/04/2016 - 12:17 pm

As the presidential race heats up, some of the rising stars in modern music are making it easy for their fans to register to vote. Animal Collective, Best Coast, Cherub, Jason Isbell, Lucius, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Kurt Vile and Wavves have all partnered with the non-partisan civic engagement organization HeadCount to host voter registration drives at their concerts in 2016.

With excitement towards their newly formed partnership, Best Coast explains: "We are stoked to be working with HeadCount on our upcoming tour! It is super important to us to spread awareness on the upcoming presidential election and give our fans the opportunity to register to vote at our shows!"

They join veteran acts like JAY-Z, Wilco, Dave Matthews Band, The Black Keys, The National, My Morning Jacket, Death Cab For Cutie, Phish and Dead & Company; all of whom have hosted HeadCount's voter registration activities for many years.

About 15.5 million Americans age 21 or under are eligible to vote in their first presidential election this year. And for the first time ever, more Millennials (age 18 to 34) will be eligible to vote than Baby Boomers (age 51 to 69). By making it easy for them to register to vote, artists who are popular with young adults have a unique opportunity to make an impact on the election - without having to endorse a candidate or party.

HeadCount has volunteer teams in most major U.S. cities, making it possible to register voters at multiple tour dates by these artists. The organization was founded in 2004 by a group of musicians and concert promoters including Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead and Marc Brownstein of the Disco Biscuits, who serves as the organization's Co-Chair. In the 12 years since, they have registered well over 300,000 voters at more than 4,000 live music events.

"We are honored to work with hundreds of musicians at all different stages of their careers," says HeadCount's executive director Andy Bernstein. "But there's something extra special when you align with artists whose careers are taking off and pushing music forward. They also happen to bring out young people in droves."

Fans of these bands have the opportunity to volunteer with HeadCount and help their peers register to vote. More information on volunteer opportunities -- along with comprehensive information about voting and an online voter registration form -- can be found at the organization's website, www.HeadCount.org

Tue, 03/01/2016 - 11:45 am

Sister roots rock 'n' soul band Larkin Poe has announced additional east coast tour dates before kicking off the European leg of the "Detour" Tour with Elvis Costello. The duo is set to headline at Gypsy Sally's in Washington, DC on April 18th, Mercury Lounge in New York, NY on April 19th, as well as MilkBoy in Philadelphia, PA on April 20th. For more information, please visit: http://www.larkinpoe.com/tour.

Larkin Poe recently announced that they will be joining Elvis Costello on the North American leg of his "Detour" Tour this spring. The first show is set to kick off on March 29th in Santa Rosa, CA and will wrap up on April 16th in Eugene, OR. Fans will have a chance to see the duo rock the stage as direct support as well as performing as Costello's backing band in 15 cities on the west coast.

The band first connected with Costello when they were known as The Lovell Sisters. Since then, they have acted as his backing band numerous times over the course of the last five years. When asked about touring with Costello once again, the ladies said: "We are so excited to be hitting the road with Elvis Costello this coming spring - in the USA and internationally! With our album, RESKINNED, slated for a spring release, we can't wait to get out and debut all our new songs for folks".

Earlier this month, the duo premiered their new single, "Trouble In Mind", on Paste Magazine. Fans can listen to the song exclusively, here: http://bit.ly/23JjoCf"Trouble In Mind" is the first single off the duo's highly anticipated sophomore album, RESKINNED. In an effort to show off their true grit and evolution as a band, Larkin Poe immediately returned to the studio to record after concluding their world tour. This fresh version of the original album, KIN, includes new re-mastered tracks as well as productions by Chris Seefried (Fitz and the Tantrums, Lana Del Rey), Justin Warfield (She Wants Revenge, Nico Vega) and Wax LTD (Muse, Bon Iver, Miley Cyrus, Maroon 5).  RESKINNED is set to drop on Friday, April 15th via RH Music.

When asked about "Trouble In Mind", the sisters said: "We're Georgia peaches, born and raised in the South. We wrote "Trouble in Mind" as an homage to our roots: "A Georgia peach gone bad, yeah, you know the taste..." We may seem sweet and delicious, but take a bite and get ready for a kick in the teeth... We've come up steeped in the musical heritage of the South: the blues, country, southern rock - it's all in the bloodstream of our music and we're ready to let some of it out for y'all."

Larkin Poe is a sister duo comprised of Rebecca Lovell and Megan Lovell - descendants of tortured artist and creative genius, Edgar Allen Poe. At a young age, the girls were classically trained on violin and piano while being exposed to classic rock icons including Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd. Rebecca (lead singer) plays guitar, mandolin as well as violin and Megan (harmony vocals) contributes on slide guitar, lapsteel as well as dobro. After experimenting with an array of musical styles, they found a way to blend together a sound that channels their distinct voice.

The duo has previously hit the road as opening and backing bands for Conor Oberst, Kristian Bush (Sugarland) and Elvis Costello who praises that "they have a head start on the rest of us with the unique power and beauty of sibling harmony". With years of domestic and international touring under their belts, and a large and loyal fan base already in place, the sisters want their fans to know that their new album RESKINNED is truly their coming of age project.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

March 29 - Wells Fargo Center for the Arts - Santa Rosa, CA*

March 30 - The Masonic - San Francisco, CA*

April 1 - Arlington Theatre - Santa Barbara, CA*

April 2 - Theatre at Ace Hotel - Los Angeles, CA*

April 3 - Theatre at Ace Hotel - Los Angeles, CA*

April 5 - Fox Performing Arts Center - Riverside, CA*

April 7 - Balboa Theatre - San Diego, CA*

April 8 - Ikeda Theatre - Mesa, AZ*

April 9 - Rialto Theatre - Tucson, AZ*

April 11 - Paramount Theatre - Denver, CO*

April 12 - Kingsbury Hall University of Utah - Salt Lake City, UT*

April 13 - Center for the Arts - Jackson Hole, WY*

April 15 - Egyptian Theatre - Boise, ID*

April 16 - McDonald Theatre - Eugene, OR*

April 17 - Mount Baker Theatre - Bellingham, WA*

April 18 - Gypsy Sally's - Washington, DC

April 19 - Mercury Lounge - New York, NY

April 20 - MilkBoy - Philadelphia, PA

 

*Supporting Elvis Costello

Fri, 04/15/2016 - 10:13 am

Sister roots rock 'n' soul band Larkin Poe released their highly anticipated sophomore album RESKINNED via RH Music. Out today digitally, the album will be available in stores April 29th. A fresh version of the original album, KIN, RESKINNED includes new re-mastered tracks as well as productions by Chris Seefried (Fitz and the Tantrums, Lana Del Rey), Justin Warfield (She Wants Revenge, Nico Vega) and Wax LTD (Muse, Bon Iver, Miley Cyrus, Maroon 5). "With the release of our new record RESKINNED, we're pumped to unleash our inner roots rock and rollers. Our favorite songs on this record were written and recorded just a few months ago; it feels really good to give listeners an insider look at who we are right now. If you love it, share it with everyone you know," commented by Rebecca Lovell (Lead Vocals/Electric Guitar), one of the two Lovell sisters that comprise Larkin Poe.

In celebration of the release, Larkin Poe will be giving an in-store performance at The Record Exchange in Boise, ID before performing at The Egyptian Theatre alongside Elvis Costello. For more information, please visit http://www.larkinpoe.com.

Just last week Larkin Poe performed their lead single, "Trouble In Mind," on CONAN. Watch here: http://bit.ly/1oFsajV. The duo can now be seen on the "Detour" Tour with Elvis Costello, plus on a string of upcoming headline shows at Gypsy Sally's in Washington, DC on April 18th, Mercury Lounge in New York, NY on April 19th, as well as MilkBoy in Philadelphia, PA on April 20th. They head to Mobile, AL for a show April 23rd at Soul Kitchen and then a hometown show at Terminal West in Atlanta on May 5th, wrapping up the headline dates in Nashville on May 6th at 12th and Porter. For more information, please visit: http://www.larkinpoe.com/tour.

Larkin Poe is a sister duo comprised of Rebecca Lovell and Megan Lovell - descendants of tortured artist and creative genius, Edgar Allen Poe. At a young age, the girls were classically trained on violin and piano while being exposed to classic rock icons including Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd. Rebecca (lead singer) plays guitar, mandolin as well as violin and Megan (harmony vocals) contributes on slide guitar, lapsteel as well as dobro. After experimenting with an array of musical styles, they found a way to blend together a sound that channels their distinct voice.

The duo has previously hit the road as opening and backing bands for Conor Oberst, Kristian Bush (Sugarland), Dawes and Elvis Costello who praises that "they have a head start on the rest of us with the unique power and beauty of sibling harmony". With years of domestic and international touring under their belts, and a large and loyal fan base already in place, the sisters want their fans to know that their new album RESKINNED is truly their coming of age project.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

April 15 - Record Exchange In Store - Boise, ID

April 15 - Egyptian Theatre - Boise, ID*

April 16 - McDonald Theatre - Eugene, OR*

April 17 - Mount Baker Theatre - Bellingham, WA*

April 18 - Gypsy Sally's - Washington, DC

April 19 - Mercury Lounge - New York, NY

April 20 - MilkBoy - Philadelphia, PA

April 23 - Soul Kitchen - Mobile, AL

May 05 - Terminal West - Altanta, GA

May 06 - 12th & Porter - Nashville, TN

*Supporting Elvis Costello

Thu, 04/21/2016 - 7:18 am
The Nightowls' new record "Royal Sessions" boasts an energetic blend of classic soul and modern pop. True to the band's roots, they recorded the new single and EP at the famed Royal Studios (Al Green, John Mayer, Rod Stewart) in Memphis, TN. The band will be hitting the road this spring, playing dates across the Southeast including Memphis and all over Texas, before snaking up the East and West coasts this summer! Check below for a full list of currently announced shows and for more info on The Nightowls!
 
Upcoming Shows
 
Apr. 22 @ Double Decker Arts Festival in Oxford, MS

Apr. 29 @ Sam's Burger Joint in San Antonio, TX
May 4 @ Sundance Square in Fort Worth, TX
May 5 @ Three Links in Dallas, TX
May 7 @ Wein and Saengerfest in New Braunfels, TX
May 13 @ 3TEN ACL Live in Austin, TX
May 20 @ The Phoenix Saloon in New Braunfels, TX
May 27 @ Continental Club in Houston, TX
Jun. 10 @ The Rustic in Dallas, TX
Jun. 17 @ Poodie's Roadhouse in Spicewood, TX
Jun. 23 @ Open Air Music Series in Ouray, CO
Jun. 24 @ The Liberty in Roswell, NM
Jul. 1 @ The Continental Club in Houston, TX
Jul. 15 @ Scoot INN in Austin, TX
Jul. 16 @ Sam's Burger Joint in San Antonio, TX
Jul. 23 @ Levitt Shell in Memphis, TN
Jul. 27 @ State Line Music Series in El Paso, TX

 

Wed, 05/18/2016 - 6:33 pm

Sibling duo Jocelyn & Chris Arndt have released their highly anticipated new album Edges! The album premiered in full via Glide Magazine, and can be streamed now, here: http://bit.ly/1OTzgqH. To purchase Edges, please visit: jocelynandchrismusic.bandcamp.com.

Edges is cmprised of 12 original tracks by Jocelyn and Chris, and also features their band and special guests including Gov’t Mule’s Danny Louis, back-road blues artist G Love on harmonica, and Jazz vibraphonist Tony Miceli. The first single, “Shame,” is available for streaming on Paste Magazine, and second single, “Too Much To Me,” is streaming on  Relix. The duo’s third single “Hot” can be streamed on The 405. Fans can also watch Jocelyn  & Chris’ new live video for “Where’s The Rain” (filmed The Move Music Festival) on Baeble Music.

About Edges, Jocelyn and Chris Arndt shared: “Simply put, Edges is an album of straight-up, thump-in-your-chest, real-deal, authentic rock. After our EP “Strangers In Fairyland” gained some traction last year, we wanted to make a cohesive full-length album - a holistic musical listening experience that would leave listeners hooked from top to bottom. We wanted it to feel like we just walked into a room with our band and played. That’s a lot of the reason Edges turned out the way it did. Special guests like G Love and Gov’t Mules Danny Louis only added to the organic rock-jam vibe.

This music is who we are. It's every edge of us, every facet. And we’ve truly never been so excited to share something with all of you out there in the world.”

Devastatingly powerful vocals, retro-rock guitar, and lyrics that run the gamete between vulnerable to all-out venomous, Jocelyn & Chris Arndt’s music has matured into what can only be described as a throwback to pure, authentic rock. Together with their band they logged more than 100 shows in 2015 including stops at The Sundance Film Festival and  Mountain Jam Music Festival, television appearances across NY, TN, VA, and CA and featured play on more than 100 college radio stations. Jocelyn and Chris kicked off 2016 with shows across CO, NV, AZ, and CA, including a headline performance at The Legendary Viper Room in Hollywood.

Their blues-rock style has been coined “a gorgeous mixture of classic rock and contemporary indie energy” by Joonbug.com. The Arndts’ recordings strike an effortless blend of angst and personal emotion, while their live performances are simply incredible.

Edges is the full-length follow-up to last fall's seven-song EP Strangers In Fairyland. For more information, please visit www.Jocelynandchrismusic.com.

Edges Track Listing:

  1. Shame
  2. Too Much To me
  3. Where’s The Rain
  4. More Than I Say I Do
  5. Jagged
  6. Hot
  7. Mystery
  8. Cinderella
  9. Cut The Cord
  10. Because Of You
  11. Dry Cereal
  12. Here To Stay
Wed, 06/01/2016 - 10:09 am

Hey Marseilles are a band that have arrived on what is a rather glorious, new sound. On two previous albums, the Seattle six-piece embraced classical influences in a big way, taking cues from contemporaries like The Decemberists. But on their third, most recently released self-titled album, the band made bigger, bolder strides in the studio, creating a more polished piece of art that's taking these amicable, Pacific North Westerners to soaring new heights.

Not surprisingly, the place these songs are most effective is in the live setting...something we saw firsthand when the band dropped in on our Baeble Bounce House Party in Austin last spring. Put simply, this is an infectious set. Singer Matt Bishop's sauntering, vocal melodies and big choruses are sure to clang around in your brain for days. And as we mentioned above, the band's more precious, previous pursuits (say that three times fast) get a bit more of an edge with the addition of a real rhythmic drive and guitar work that pivots perfectly between distorted pedal crunchers and a glossy haze.

Most interestingly though are the orchestrations, which used to serve as Hey Marseilles' calling card. The band haven't dialed these elements back, but where classical influences were once the bedrock to their songs, now piano, cello, and violins taste like the cherry on top, bringing the band's entire, exciting new sound together. If you're a fan of that certain brand of melodic and heartfelt indie-rock only the Pacific Northwest seems to be able to produce (think Death Cab, The Shins), Hey Marseilles should be your favorite new band.

Watch Hey Marseilles at The Baeble Bounce House now on the Baeble site or via the Baeble Music app. To learn more about Hey Marseilles, visit: http://heymarseilles.com

Follow Baeble Music on social media to keep updated with all their new content:

www.facebook.com/Baeblemusic/

https://twitter.com/BaebleMusic

www.instagram.com/baeblemusic

Tue, 07/12/2016 - 11:23 am

The Prelude Implicit, KANSAS' intensely anticipated new studio album due out September 23rd, 2016 is now available for pre-order. The album is the first new release in 16 years for the band that has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust In the Wind,' to progressive epics like 'Song for America' and 'Miracles Out of Nowhere.' The album will be available on CD, double 180 Gram Vinyl and digitally on iTunes and Google Play.

Fans can pre-order now by visiting Kansasband.com.

The Prelude Implicit features 10 all new tracks written by the band and co-produced by Zak Rizvi, Phil Ehart, and Richard Williams.  KANSAS's signature sound is evident throughout the album.  It showcases Ronnie Platt's soaring lead vocals, David Ragsdale's blistering violin, Williams and Rizvi's rocking guitar riffs, the unmistakable sound of David Manion's B3 organ and keyboards, Ehart's thundering drums, and Billy Greer's driving bass and vocals. 

KANSAS returned to the studio in January 2016 after signing with Inside Out Music.  Says Inside Out founder and president Thomas Waber, "KANSAS is the biggest and most important Prog band to come out of the United States. I grew up listening to them, and their music is part of my DNA.  'The Prelude Implicit' undoubtedly adds to their already impressive musical legacy.  I can't stop listening to it, and we are proud to be releasing the album."

The result of the time in the studio was even more than the band imagined.  "This is definitely a KANSAS album," remarks original guitarist Richard Williams. "Whether it is the trademark Prog epic like 'The Voyage of Eight Eighteen,' biting rocker such as 'Rhythm in the Spirit,' or mindful ballad like 'The Unsung Heroes,' there is something on this album for every kind of KANSAS fan.  After years of pent-up creativity, the entire band is very proud of 'The Prelude Implicit.'"

Lead Vocalist Ronnie Platt adds, "Recording 'The Prelude Implicit' was an incredible experience, and I couldn't be happier with the results. It is my hope that, knowing the intense listeners that KANSAS fans are, the continuity yet diversity of this album will be pleasing to them."

The album title, The Prelude Implicit means, "Without a doubt, this is a new musical beginning," explains Ehart. Tattoo artist, Denise de la Cerda, did the oil painting of the front and back cover.  "It shows a Phoenix flying from the past into the future."

The Prelude Implicit Track Listing:

1.) With This Heart

2.) Visibility Zero

3.) The Unsung Heroes

4.) Rhythm in the Spirit

5.) Refugee

6.) The Voyage of Eight Eighteen   

7.) Camouflage

8.) Summer

9.) Crowded Isolation

10.) Section 60

KANSAS will be debuting songs off The Prelude Implicit this fall, live in concert, as part of their Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour.  More information on the tour, including tour dates, can be found at www.kansasband.com

For more information on KANSAS, The Prelude Implicit, and the Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour, please visit:

www.kansasband.com

www.facebook.com/kansasband

www.twitter.com/kansasband

Tue, 09/06/2016 - 10:52 am

Up-and-coming sibling duo Jocelyn & Chris Arndt have premiered their brand new cover of Tracy Champan's "Give Me One Reason (Live from Rock N Roots Festival)" today via BandsInTown. Fans can check out their soulful take on this classic track now, here: http://goo.gl/DUMW5m.

"This song is insanely fun to sing," shares Jocelyn. "It really takes on a whole life of its own when it gets going." Chris adds: "There's nothing better than a solid blues jam, which is exactly what Chapman created with this tune. It just rocks!"

In March, Jocelyn & Chris released their highly anticipated album Edges, which premiered in full via Glide Magazine. Edges is comprised of 12 original tracks by Jocelyn and Chris, who are joined on the effort by their band, and special guests including G Love and Gov't Mule's Danny Louis. Edges debuted on the Jamband Top 30 albums chart at #17 and is currently #14, bolstered by air play on nearly 200 stations nationwide. The album has also been featured on Paste Magazine, Relix, The 405, and Baeble Music. To purchase, please visit: jocelynandchrismusic.bandcamp.com.

Devastatingly powerful vocals, retro-rock guitar, and lyrics that run the gamete between vulnerable to all-out venomous, Jocelyn & Chris Arndt's music has matured into what can only be described as a throwback to pure, authentic rock. Together with their band they logged more than 100 shows in the past 12 months with stops in 25 states and events including The Sundance Film Festival, Mountain Jam Music Festival, CMJ, SXSW 2016, and Red Gorilla. This summer Jocelyn & Chris won the audience vote as "best band" after their performance at Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI.

Their blues-rock style has been coined "a gorgeous mixture of classic rock and contemporary indie energy" by Joonbug.com. The Arndts' recordings strike an effortless blend of angst and personal emotion, while their live performances are simply incredible.

Edges is the full-length follow-up to last fall's seven-song EP Strangers In Fairyland. For more information, please visi

Upcoming Tour Dates:

9/14-9/16 - New York, NY @ Mondo NYC

9/17 - Rehoboth Beach, DE @ Dogfish Head Brewing Co.

9/18 - Salisbury, MA @ Blue Ocean Music Hall w/Vertical Horizon

10/21 - New York, NY @ The Hall MP

12/16 - Ocean City, MD @ WOCM Holiday Show

Sat, 09/24/2016 - 11:20 am

Legendary rock band, Kansas, have officially released their highly anticipated new album The Prelude Implicit, today through Inside Out Music! The album is now available for purchase in stores and online at Best Buy, Amazon, Apple Music, Wal-Mart, Spotify and Independent Record Shops. Links to retailers can be found below:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/2cWwNRp

Best Buy - http://bit.ly/2da7bBI

iTunes/Apple Music - http://apple.co/2aSjBQc

Wal-Mart - http://bit.ly/2d2Fgog

Independent Record Shops - http://recordstoreday.com/Stores

Spotify - http://spoti.fi/2b0Oi3j

Google Play  http://bit.ly/2asRFhn

They have released two new songs from the album, both of which are being regarded as "essential Kansas". Fans can stream "With This Heart" with Billboard, here: http://goo.gl/9uYSkM and "Visibility Zero" with Rolling Stone, here: http://goo.gl/Z1E7Cq

Both songs are also now available for purchase and streaming through iTunes, AmazonMP3, Spotify, and Google Play.

The Prelude Implicit is the first new album release in 16 years for the band that has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust In the Wind,' to progressive epics like 'Song for America' and 'Miracles Out of Nowhere.' The album will be available on CD, double 180 Gram Vinyl and digitally on iTunes and Google Play.

Fans can order now by visiting Kansasband.com and on Amazon.com.

The Prelude Implicit features 10 all new tracks written by the band and co-produced by Zak Rizvi, Phil Ehart, and Richard Williams.  KANSAS's signature sound is evident throughout the album.  It showcases Ronnie Platt's soaring lead vocals, David Ragsdale's blistering violin, Williams and Rizvi's rocking guitar riffs, the unmistakable sound of David Manion's B3 organ and keyboards, Ehart's thundering drums, and Billy Greer's driving bass and vocals.

KANSAS returned to the studio in January 2016 after signing with Inside Out Music.  Says Inside Out founder and president Thomas Waber, "KANSAS is the biggest and most important Prog band to come out of the United States. I grew up listening to them, and their music is part of my DNA.  'The Prelude Implicit' undoubtedly adds to their already impressive musical legacy.  I can't stop listening to it, and we are proud to be releasing the album."

The result of the time in the studio was even more than the band imagined.  "This is definitely a KANSAS album," remarks original guitarist Richard Williams. "Whether it is the trademark Prog epic like 'The Voyage of Eight Eighteen,' biting rocker such as 'Rhythm in the Spirit,' or mindful ballad like 'The Unsung Heroes,' there is something on this album for every kind of KANSAS fan.  After years of pent-up creativity, the entire band is very proud of 'The Prelude Implicit.'"

Lead Vocalist Ronnie Platt adds, "Recording 'The Prelude Implicit' was an incredible experience, and I couldn't be happier with the results. It is my hope that, knowing the intense listeners that KANSAS fans are, the continuity yet diversity of this album will be pleasing to them."

The album title, The Prelude Implicit means, "Without a doubt, this is a new musical beginning," explains Ehart. Tattoo artist, Denise de la Cerda, did the oil painting of the front and back cover.  "It shows a Phoenix flying from the past into the future."

The Prelude Implicit Track Listing:

1.) With This Heart

2.) Visibility Zero

3.) The Unsung Heroes

4.) Rhythm in the Spirit

5.) Refugee

6.) The Voyage of Eight Eighteen   

7.) Camouflage

8.) Summer

9.) Crowded Isolation

10.) Section 60

KANSAS will be debuting songs off The Prelude Implicit this fall, live in concert, as part of their Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour.  More information on the tour, including tour dates, can be found below and at www.kansasband.com.

Mon, 11/07/2016 - 11:31 am

Grammy-nominated Reggae artist Matisyahu has teamed up with Baeble Music to exclusively premiere his new single "Shade From The Sun" today! "Shade From The Sun" is the first single to release off of his new EP, Release The Bound, which is set to drop on November 18th via Thirty Tigers. This highly anticipated EP features collaborations with electronic artist The Polish Ambassador, and Columbian pop duo Salt Cathedral. Fans can experience the new EP live when Matisyahu kicks off his 'Festival of Light Tour' on December 14th, visiting 10 cities along the way! Listen to "Shade From The Sun" via Baeble Music, here: https://goo.gl/6EnRrs

Release The Bound comes on the heels of Matisyahu's last album Akeda (June, 2014), playing into the same theme of Abraham's final test of commitment by sacrificing his greatest love to God. When he gets to the top of the Mountain and binds his Son to the alter an angel appears and tells Abraham to unbind him, that he has passed the test and proven himself. On the inspiration of the Akeda, Matisyahu explains, "Outside of my own self therapy I create music for The Bound, people who are stuck or struggling on their journeys. This EP is a narrative of Abraham facing this climatic moment when his whole life is in question and finally the RELEASE as he passes his ultimate test. I hope it brings inspiration to those facing similar questions."

When Matisyahu first started touring to packed clubs more than eleven years ago, it was prior to the release of Live at Stubbs, the now Gold record, and prior to that record's single "King Without A Crown" reaching #1 on the alternative rock radio charts.  His performances were a raw expression of his spirituality at that time and were supported by musicians who played a foundation of roots reggae augmented by the energy of a rock trio. Fans latched on quickly for a variety of reasons, but in August of 2005, just months after the release of Live at Stubbs, Matisyahu found himself on stage at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival with the de facto leader of improvisational rock-n-roll; Phish's front man Trey Anastasio.

"King without a Crown" climbed the charts and Matisyahu's follow up record Youth was nominated for a Grammy, but the blessings and curses of mainstream success each took root. While Matisyahu's bands have always been comprised of serious multidimensional players who have artfully molded the foundations of roots reggae into many genres, that early; if only a brief display of complete surrender to the music, seemed in some way to take a back seat. Through his lyrics however, Matisyahu developed a more personal, artistic, and sophisticated way to express the yearning for deep spiritual meaning, and as his own beliefs opened up to find more variety and depth, the desire for his performances to match the unpredictable flow of life developed as well.

Now, more than a decade and 9 records later, Matisyahu has formed a band that truly gives itself over to the music on par with his lyrical desire to connect to something beyond the self. The band features original Stubbs guitarist and longtime staple of the downtown New York improv scene Aaron Dugan, Dub Trio bassist and long-time Matisyahu collaborator Stu Brooks, Joe Tomino drummer of the dub trio and drummer for Matisyahu since 2009, percussionist and Cyro Baptista go-to-drummer Tim Keiper, and Virtuoso keyboardist Big Yuki.

Release The Bound is set to release on November 18, 2016 via Thirty Tigers. For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com.

Festival of Light Tour:

Dec 14 - Ecatepec de Morelos, Mexico @ Closer To The Sun

Dec 17 - St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live

Dec 18 - Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House Of Blues

Dec 21 - Miami, FL @ The Fillmore

Dec 22 - New York, NY @ City Winery

Dec 23 - New York, NY @ City Winery

Dec 24 - New York, NY @ City Winery

Dec 27 - Philadelphia, PA @ Theater of Living Arts

Dec 28 - Woodstock, NY @ Bearsville Theater

Dec 29 - Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground

Dec 30 - Salisbury, MA @ Blue Ocean Music Hall

Dec 31 - Portland, ME @ State Theatre

Fri, 11/18/2016 - 10:27 am

Grammy-nominated Reggae artist Matisyahu has officially released his new EP, Release The Boundtoday via Thirty Tigers. This highly anticipated EP features collaborations with electronic artist The Polish Ambassador, and Columbian pop duo Salt Cathedral. Fans can experience the new EP live when Matisyahu kicks off his 'Festival of Light Tour' on December 14th, visiting 10 cities along the way! Release The Bound is now available to stream via AXS and Spotify, and available for purchase via iTunes.

Release The Bound comes on the heels of Matisyahu's last album Akeda (June, 2014), playing into the same theme of Abraham's final test of commitment by sacrificing his greatest love to God. When he gets to the top of the Mountain and binds his Son to the altar an angel appears and tells Abraham to unbind him, that he has passed the test and proven himself. On the inspiration of the Akeda, Matisyahu explains, "Outside of my own self therapy I create music for The Bound, people who are stuck or struggling on their journeys. This EP is a narrative of Abraham facing this climatic moment when his whole life is in question and finally the RELEASE as he passes his ultimate test. I hope it brings inspiration to those facing similar questions."

When Matisyahu first started touring to packed clubs more than eleven years ago, it was prior to the release of Live at Stubbs, the now Gold record, and prior to that record's single "King Without A Crown" reaching #1 on the alternative rock radio charts.  His performances were a raw expression of his spirituality at that time and were supported by musicians who played a foundation of roots reggae augmented by the energy of a rock trio. Fans latched on quickly for a variety of reasons, but in August of 2005, just months after the release of Live at Stubbs, Matisyahu found himself on stage at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival with the de facto leader of improvisational rock-n-roll; Phish's front man Trey Anastasio.

"King without a Crown" climbed the charts and Matisyahu's follow up record Youth was nominated for a Grammy, but the blessings and curses of mainstream success each took root. While Matisyahu's bands have always been comprised of serious multidimensional players who have artfully molded the foundations of roots reggae into many genres, that early; if only a brief display of complete surrender to the music, seemed in some way to take a back seat. Through his lyrics however, Matisyahu developed a more personal, artistic, and sophisticated way to express the yearning for deep spiritual meaning, and as his own beliefs opened up to find more variety and depth, the desire for his performances to match the unpredictable flow of life developed as well.

Now, more than a decade and 9 records later, Matisyahu has formed a band that truly gives itself over to the music on par with his lyrical desire to connect to something beyond the self. The band features original Stubbs guitarist and longtime staple of the downtown New York improv scene Aaron Dugan, Dub Trio bassist and long-time Matisyahu collaborator Stu Brooks, Joe Tomino drummer of the dub trio and drummer for Matisyahu since 2009, percussionist and Cyro Baptista go-to-drummer Tim Keiper, and Virtuoso keyboardist Big Yuki.

Release The Bound has officially released today, November 18, 2016 via Thirty Tigers. For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com.

Wed, 11/23/2016 - 9:41 am

The Austin-based ten-piece collective of musicians known as Hard Proof is set to release their new album Stinger on January 13th, 2017 via Modern Outsider Records. This highly anticipated album arrives on the heels of Hard Proof's 100% analog 45rpm LP produced by Jim Eno (Spoon) for his Public Hi-Fi imprint earlier this year. Stinger was produced by Chris "Frenchie" Smith, who has worked with The Darkness, Built to Spill, Meat Puppets, the Toadies, and myriad Austin bands. For more information, please visit: http://hardproofmusic.com.

Hard Proof is: Aaron Sleator (guitar), Derek Phelps (trumpet), Gerardo Larios (guitar, keyboard), Jason Frey (tenor saxophone), Joe Sokolik (bass), John Branch (guitar, keyboards), Joseph Woullard (baritone saxophone, flute), Stephen Bidwell (drums, percussion), Thomas Tony Cruz (congas), and Tommy Spampinato (percussion). 

Founded in 2008, Hard Proof is a super-group featuring members of Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears, The Calm Blue Sea, Cougar, Ocote Soul Sounds, the Echocentrics, and several other notable Austin acts. As if they weren't busy enough between Hard Proof and their other bands, the Hard Proof Horns have found work as sidemen with notable acts such as Spoon, Antibalas, Gary Clark Jr., Broken Social Scene, the Walkmen, Dave Matthews Band, Band of Horses and others.

The band began by studying the blueprint of Fela Kuti's Africa 70 band, as well as funk and jazz from the whole of sub-Saharan Africa. While their self-titled album was well received on its 2010 release, there seems to be universal agreement that their live shows are something not to be missed. Austin taste-maker Laurie Gallardo of KUTX may have put it best: "This local nine-piece ensemble always puts on an electrifying live show, an absolute blowout of non-stop percussion action and blasting brass, bringing the best of both worlds to the stage by mixing classic styles and plenty of their personal panache to own the show." In 2013, Hard Proof released their first vinyl, partnering with Canada's Kept Records for the Dragon/Tere 45 that they tracked with Adrian Quesada of Grupo Fantasma and Brownout. In 2014 Hard Proof released a Cassette Store day cassingle, and played the Austin City Limits festival after a successful East coast run. 

With excitement towards their upcoming release, the band explains, "Frenchie really understood that we wanted live takes, and his high energy behind the mixing board really made these recordings come out like a live show. We can't wait for everyone to hear these performances, we had some really good moments on this."

Stinger is set to release on January 13, 2017 via Modern Outsider Records. For more information, please visit: http://hardproofmusic.com/.

Stinger Tracklisting

01.  Stinger

02.  Men Of Trouble

03.  A.R.A.S.

04.  Incendiary

05.  Trickle Down

06.  Boss

07.  War Gin

08.  Lots

09.  Soul Thing

Upcoming Shows

Nov 5 - McDade, TX @ Sound on Sound Festival

Nov 11 - San Marcos, TX @ Kiva

Nov 12 - Austin, TX @ Central Market 

Nov 19- Austin, TX @ The ABGB

Dec 2 - Austin, TX @ Oskar Blues Brewery

Jan 13 - Austin @ Antone's 

Feb 14 - Valentine, TX @ Big Bend Brewing Valentine's Day Celebration

Mar 13-19 - Austin, TX @ SXSW 2017 

Mar 24 - Kerrville, TX @ Head for the Hills Festival

Mon, 11/28/2016 - 12:41 pm

KANSAS will be bringing their highly successful Leftoverture tour to more parts of the United States in the spring of 2017! For the first time in its 43-year history, the band is performing the hit album in its entirety.  The tour showcases two hours of classic KANSAS music including hit songs, deep cuts, and new songs from their new album, The Prelude Implicit.

Due to very popular demand, dates have been confirmed across cities such as Los Angeles, Portland, Denver, Seattle, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and more.

"The band has been pretty overwhelmed by the popularity of both this tour and the new album," commented KANSAS drummer, and original member, Phil Ehart."Never having performed an album in its entirety, we didn't know what to expect. Due to the enthusiasm from our fans, we are excited to expand this tour to select cities next year. Who knows, maybe it can grow even more!"

Tickets for the tour dates can be purchased starting on Friday, December 2. More information is available at www.kansasband.com

In 1976, KANSAS released the album Leftoverture. Containing the smash hit and million-selling single "Carry On Wayward Son," along with fan favorites such as "The Wall," "Miracles Out Of Nowhere," and "What's On My Mind," Leftoverture became the band's breakthrough album. The album peaked at #5 on Billboard's Album charts and reached sextuple-platinum status with more than six million copies sold. They are performing the album in its entirety on this tour.

The Prelude Implicit, the band's most recent album, which was released on September 23rd, marked KANSAS' biggest selling week in the Soundscan era, and the highest charting release since Power (1986). The album reached #14 on the Top 200 album chart, #41 on the Billboard 200, #5 for Rock Albums, #6 for Physical Albums, #17 on the Vinyl Albums chart and more. The Prelude Implicit is now available for purchase in stores and online at Best Buy, Amazon, Apple Music, FYE, Barnes & Noble, Wal-Mart, Spotify and Independent Record Shops. Links to select retailers can be found below:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/2cWwNRp

Best Buy - http://bit.ly/2da7bBI

iTunes/Apple Music - http://apple.co/2aSjBQc

Wal-Mart - http://bit.ly/2d2Fgog

Independent Record Shops - http://recordstoreday.com/Stores

Spotify - http://spoti.fi/2b0Oi3j

Google Play  http://bit.ly/2asRFhn

KANSAS LEFTOVERTURE 40th ANNIVERSARY TOUR CONFIRMED DATES:

December 1                 Daytona Beach, FL              The Peabody Auditorium

December 2                 Lancaster, SC                      The Bundy Auditorium

December 3                 Fayetteville, NC                   Crown Theater

NEW 2017 LEFTOVERTURE 40th ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:

March 24                     Salina, KS                            The Stiefel Theatre

March 25                     Tulsa, OK                             The Brady Theater

April 18                        Denver, CO                          The Paramount

April 20                        Salt Lake City, UT                Delta Hall at Eccles Theatre

April 22                        Las Vegas, NV                     The Smith Center - Reynolds Hall

April 23                        Chandler, AZ                        Chandler Center for the Arts

April 26                        Los Angeles, CA                  The Wiltern

April 28                        Portland, OR                        Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall

April 29                        Seattle, WA                          Moore Theater

Mon, 11/28/2016 - 4:51 pm

Up-and-coming sibling duo Jocelyn & Chris Arndt have premiered their brand new EP Still: A Holiday Collection today via Baeble Music. Fans can listen to the band's inspired take on holiday classics, as well as their original Christmas tune "Still," now here: https://goo.gl/BmNjs0. The EP will be released on Friday, December 2nd. For more information, please visit: www.jocelynandchrismusic.com.

"Chris and I decided on each of the songs in this collection for a different reason," Jocelyn shares. "'Christmas Man Blues' is a rollicking holiday jam, originally recorded in 1928. We chose 'Mary, Mary' for its soul, and 'Christmastime is Here' for the seasonal warmth it gives us. 'The Christmas Song' and 'What Child is This?' are toasts to traditions of days past. And we hope our original 'Still' will stay with you for many holidays to come. No matter the reason, though, this collection is all for you. Thank you for celebrating the unique spirit of this time of year with us.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays."

Devastatingly powerful vocals, retro-rock guitar, and lyrics that run the gamete between vulnerable to all-out venomous, Jocelyn & Chris Arndt's music has matured into what can only be described as a throwback to pure, authentic rock. Together with their band they logged more than 100 shows in the past 12 months with stops in 25 states and events including The Sundance Film Festival, Mountain Jam Music Festival, CMJ, SXSW 2016, and Red Gorilla. This summer Jocelyn & Chris won the audience vote as "best band" after their performance at Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI.

Their blues-rock style has been coined "a gorgeous mixture of classic rock and contemporary indie energy" by Joonbug.com.  The Arndts' recordings strike an effortless blend of angst and personal emotion, while their live performances are simply incredible.

Edges is the full-length follow-up to the band's seven-song EP Strangers In Fairyland. For more information, please visit: www.Jocelynandchrismusic.com.

Wed, 12/07/2016 - 1:28 pm

Houston's award-winning 8-piece ensemble, The Suffers, are set to play Hangout Music Festival and High Water Festival in 2017, following their first-ever EU/UK tour! Check out the full list of dates below. The band officially released their debut self-titled album earlier this year, which is now available on iTunes, Amazon & Spotify. Surrounding the release, The Suffers performed on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah and Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Last year brought the band to new heights, as they played 150+ shows across North America, visited NPR in Washington, DC for a Tiny Desk Concert, and made their national television debut on Late Show With David Letterman.

Established in 2011, The Suffers' lineup was curated by bassist Adam Castaneda and vocalist/keyboardist Pat Kelly, who brought on trumpet player Jon Durbin, trombonist Michael Razo,guitarist Kevin Bernier, percussionist Jose "Chapy" Luna, and drummer/vocalist Nick Zamora, while frontwoman Kam Franklin topped off the group with soaring vocals.

In a short time, the band has progressed from packing Houston venues to accepting invitations for featured performances at Hangout Music Festival, Forecastle Festival, Electric Forest Festival, Pemberton Music Festival, Austin City Limits, Newport Folk Festival, XPoNential Festival, Landmark Music Festival, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, LouFest, AmericanaFest, UTOPiAfest, SXSW, Free Press Summer Festival, Untapped Festival, CMJ Music Marathon, and more. The Suffers have remained a local favorite, accepting 23 Houston Press Music Awards in the last four years.

Thu, 12/08/2016 - 6:17 am

North Carolina's BIG Something are thrilled to announce that they will be releasing their fourth studio album, Tumbleweed, on February 24th, 2017. The album is now available for pre-order, and fans can watch the official album announcement here. For more information, please visit: www.bigsomething.net.

"This album is particularly special because it was our first full length done in a professional studio - Echo Mountain in Asheville," drummer Ben Vinograd tells us."The ability to set up and record for a week straight and be together in a different city, living together in the same space, allowed us to come closer as a unit and put out a product that I believe is our best album to date."

Singer Nick MacDaniels adds: "Tumbleweed is a post apocalyptic desert trip. It's a little darker and heavier in tone and subject matter than our previous albums, but there are also a few bright spots and upbeat moments too. With all eight tracks having been 'road tested' for the past couple years, it's a really nice snapshot of our sound and catalogue."

A 6 piece powerhouse consisting of Ben Vinograd (drums), Doug Marshall (bass), Josh Kagel (keys, trumpet), Casey Cranford(saxophone, EWI), Jesse Henlsey (lead guitar), and Nick MacDaniels (vocals, guitar), BIG Something presents a sound that is both unique and timeless, fusing elements of rock, pop, funk, and improvisation to take listeners on a journey through a myriad of musical styles. It's no secret why this group has quickly become one of the most exciting new bands to emerge from the southeast; soaring guitars, synths, horns and alluring vocal hooks rise to the top of their infectious collection of songs and represent a sound that has caught the ears of such revered Summer circuit stalwarts as Galactic, moe., Robert Randolph, and even The B52s, who have all tapped BIG Something as direct support.

Their forthcoming album Tumbleweed was recorded with the help of Grammy-nominated producer John Custer (Corrosion of Conformity, DAG, Cry of Love). On working with Custer, MacDaniels shares: "This was our 4th album working with our ever amazing producer - John Custer. He helped guide the project and these songs to new life in so many subtle but distinct ways. His ear for harmonies and little extra layers to enhance the production is mind blowing. He projects this zen state of 'badassness' and that always comes out in our performance and final mix too."

BIG Something will release their fourth studio album, Tumbleweed, on February 24th, 2017. For more information, please visit: www.bigsomething.net.

Tue, 01/10/2017 - 10:23 am

KANSAS teamed up with Ultimate Classic Rock to exclusively premiere a brand new concert video for "Rhythm In The Spirit" today! The song is taken from the band's new studio album The Prelude Implicit, which was released on September 23rd, 2016. Fans can watch the video now at this link: http://ultimateclassicrock.com/kansas-rhythm-in-the-spirit/

In a joint statement, the band says, "It's been a long time since we've made a one song concert video and we had a great time doing it! 'Rhythm in the Spirit' was our unanimous first choice and we are very happy with how it turned out."

The band recently announced that they will be bringing their highly successful Leftoverture tour to more parts of the United States in the spring! For the first time in its 43-year history, the band is performing the hit album in its entirety. The tour showcases two hours of classic KANSAS music including hit songs, deep cuts, and new songs from their new album, The Prelude Implicit.

Due to very popular demand, dates have been confirmed across cities such as Los Angeles, Portland, Denver, Seattle, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and more.

Tickets for the tour dates can be purchased now. More information is available at www.kansasband.com

In 1976, KANSAS released the album Leftoverture. Containing the smash hit and million-selling single "Carry On Wayward Son," along with fan favorites such as "The Wall," "Miracles Out Of Nowhere," and "What's On My Mind," Leftoverture became the band's breakthrough album. The album peaked at #5 on Billboard's Album charts and reached sextuple-platinum status with more than six million copies sold. They are performing the album in its entirety on this tour.

The Prelude Implicit, the band's most recent album, which was released on September 23rd, marked KANSAS' biggest selling week in the Soundscan era, and the highest charting release since Power (1986). The album reached #14 on the Top 200 album chart, #41 on the Billboard 200, #5 for Rock Albums, #6 for Physical Albums, #17 on the Vinyl Albums chart and more. The Prelude Implicit is now available for purchase in stores and online at Best Buy, Amazon, Apple Music, FYE, Barnes & Noble, Wal-Mart, Spotify and Independent Record Shops. Links to select retailers can be found below:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/2cWwNRp

Best Buy - http://bit.ly/2da7bBI

iTunes/Apple Music - http://apple.co/2aSjBQc

Wal-Mart - http://bit.ly/2d2Fgog

Independent Record Shops - http://recordstoreday.com/Stores

Spotify - http://spoti.fi/2b0Oi3j

Google Play  http://bit.ly/2asRFhn

NEW 2017 LEFTOVERTURE 40th ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:

March 24                    Salina, KS                           The Stiefel Theatre

March 25                    Tulsa, OK                            The Brady Theater

March 31                    Des Moines, IA                    Shoyt Herman Place

April 1                         Peoria, IL                             Peoria Civic Center Theater

April 7                         Louisville, KY                       Louisville Palace

April 9                         Charleston, WV                   The Clay Center

April 18                        Denver, CO                         The Paramount

April 20                        Salt Lake City, UT               Delta Hall at Eccles Theatre

April 22                        Las Vegas, NV                    The Smith Center - Reynolds Hall

April 23                        Chandler, AZ                        Chandler Center for the Arts

April 26                        Los Angeles, CA                  The Wiltern

April 28                        Portland, OR                        Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall

April 29                        Seattle, WA                           Moore Theater

Tue, 01/10/2017 - 11:49 am

The Austin-based ten-piece collective of musicians known as Hard Proof has teamed up with FLOOD Magazine to exclusively premiere their new album Stinger today! The full album is set to releaseon January 13th, 2017 via Modern Outsider Records. This highly anticipated album arrives on the heels of Hard Proof's 100% analog 45rpm LP produced by Jim Eno (Spoon) for his Public Hi-Fi imprint last year. Stinger was produced by Chris "Frenchie" Smith, who has worked with The Darkness, Built to Spill, Meat Puppets, the Toadies, and myriad Austin bands. Stream the full album on FLOOD Magazine, here: https://goo.gl/Qrdb5Q

Hard Proof is: Aaron Sleator (guitar), Derek Phelps (trumpet), Gerardo Larios (guitar, keyboard), Jason Frey (tenor saxophone), Joe Sokolik (bass), John Branch (guitar, keyboards), Joseph Woullard (baritone saxophone, flute), Stephen Bidwell (drums, percussion), Tony Cruz (congas), and Tommy Spampinato (percussion).

Founded in 2008, Hard Proof is a super-group featuring members of Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears, The Calm Blue Sea, Cougar, Ocote Soul Sounds, the Echocentrics, and several other notable Austin acts. As if they weren't busy enough between Hard Proof and their other bands, the Hard Proof Horns have found work as sidemen with notable acts such as Spoon, Antibalas, Gary Clark Jr., Broken Social Scene, the Walkmen, Dave Matthews Band, Band of Horses and others.

The band began by studying the blueprint of Fela Kuti's Africa 70 band, as well as funk and jazz from the whole of sub-Saharan Africa. While their self-titled album was well received on its 2010 release, there seems to be universal agreement that their live shows are something not to be missed. Austin taste-maker Laurie Gallardo of KUTX may have put it best: "This local nine-piece ensemble always puts on an electrifying live show, an absolute blowout of non-stop percussion action and blasting brass, bringing the best of both worlds to the stage by mixing classic styles and plenty of their personal panache to own the show." In 2013, Hard Proof released their first vinyl, partnering with Canada's Kept Records for the Dragon/Tere 45 that they tracked with Adrian Quesada of Grupo Fantasma and Brownout. In 2014 Hard Proof released a Cassette Store day cassingle, and played the Austin City Limits festival after a successful East coast run.

Stinger is set to release on January 13, 2017 via Modern Outsider Records.

Sat, 01/21/2017 - 12:51 pm

Grammy-nominated Reggae artist Matisyahu has announced a national tour, set to kick off on March 2nd! Dates are listed below. For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com/tour/.

Matisyahu recently released his new EP, Release The Bound via Thirty Tigers. This highly anticipated EP features collaborations with electronic artist The Polish Ambassador, and Columbian pop duo Salt Cathedral. Release The Bound is now available to stream via AXS, and Spotify, and available for purchase via iTunes.

When Matisyahu first started touring to packed clubs more than eleven years ago, it was prior to the release of Live at Stubbs, the now Gold record, and prior to that record's single "King Without A Crown" reaching #1 on the alternative rock radio charts.  His performances were a raw expression of his spirituality at that time and were supported by musicians who played a foundation of roots reggae augmented by the energy of a rock trio. Fans latched on quickly for a variety of reasons, but in August of 2005, just months after the release of Live at Stubbs, Matisyahu found himself on stage at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival with the de facto leader of improvisational rock-n-roll; Phish's front man Trey Anastasio.

"King without a Crown" climbed the charts and Matisyahu's follow up record Youth was nominated for a Grammy, but the blessings and curses of mainstream success each took root. While Matisyahu's bands have always been comprised of serious multidimensional players who have artfully molded the foundations of roots reggae into many genres, that early; if only a brief display of complete surrender to the music, seemed in some way to take a back seat. Through his lyrics however, Matisyahu developed a more personal, artistic, and sophisticated way to express the yearning for deep spiritual meaning, and as his own beliefs opened up to find more variety and depth, the desire for his performances to match the unpredictable flow of life developed as well.

Now, more than a decade and 9 records later, Matisyahu has formed a band that truly gives itself over to the music on par with his lyrical desire to connect to something beyond the self. The band features original Stubbs guitarist and longtime staple of the downtown New York improv scene Aaron Dugan, Dub Trio bassist and long-time Matisyahu collaborator Stu Brooks, Joe Tomino drummer of the dub trio and drummer for Matisyahu since 2009, percussionist and Cyro Baptista go-to-drummer Tim Keiper, and Virtuoso keyboardist Big Yuki.

Release The Bound officially released on November 18, 2016 via Thirty Tigers. For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com.

Tour Dates:

Mar 2 - Boca Raton, FL @ Boca Black Box Center for the Arts

Mar 7 - Petaluma, CA @ Mystic Theatre

Mar 8 - Redway, CA @ Mateel Community Center

Mar 10 - Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst

Mar 11 - Berkeley, CA @ The UC Theatre

Mar 12 - San Luis Obispo, CA @ Fremont Theatre

Mar 14-Mar 15 - Solana Beach, CA @ Belly Up

Mar 17 - Chandler, AZ @ Pot of Gold Music Festival

Mar 18 - Park City, UT @ Park City Live

Mar 19 - Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater

Mar 20 - Tulsa, OK @ Cain's Ballroom

Mar 22 - Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall

Mar 24 - New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues

Mar 25 - Mobile, AL @ Saenger Theatre

Mar 26 - Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore

Mar 28 - Richmond, VA @ The National

Mar 29 - State College, PA @ The State Theatre

May 26-May 28 - Monterey, CA @ California Roots Festival

Jun 22 - Rothbury, MI @ Electric Forest

Jun 29 - Rothbury, MI @ Electric Forest

Mon, 01/23/2017 - 10:36 am

Indie folk-rock act Edison is thrilled to announce that they will be hitting the road for a number of shows across the US. The tour kicks off in Greeley, CO on February 3rd and will include stops at Folk Alliance International in Kansas City, MO, as well as this year's SXSW in Austin, TX. For a full list of tour dates, please see below or visit: www.listentoedison.com.

Edison - singer/guitarist Sarah Slaton, multi-instrumentalist Dustin Morris, and Grammy-nominated guitarist, Maxwell Hughes (formerly of The Lumineers) - has quickly emerged as a musical force. Although they've only been a band since late 2014, they've already built a substantial national fan base thanks to their high-energy live shows and tireless touring efforts. In addition to countless club gigs, they've earned attention at such music industry conferences as SXSW, CMJ Music Marathon, and Folk Alliance International, as well as support slots with the likes of Iron & Wine, Langhorne Slim, and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Nightsweats.

Edison released their debut full-length album, Familiar Spirit, on September 15, 2016. For more information, please visit: www.listentoedison.com.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

2/3 - Greeley, CO @ Moxi Theater

2/9 - Laramie, WY @ University of Wyoming

2/11 - Fort Collins, CO @ Downtown Artery

2/12 - Denver, CO @ The Bluebird (Supporting Shook Twins) 

2/14 - Lincoln, NE @ Duffy's

2/15-19 - Kansas City, MO @ Folk Alliance International

2/23 - Nashville, IN @ Pine Room Tavern

2/24 - Columbus, OH @ Brothers Drake

3/1 - New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall

3/2 - Richmond, VA @ University of Richmond

3/4 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Rainbow Cactus

3/7 - Knoxville, TN @ Preservation Pub

3/9 - Atlanta, GA @ Smiths Olde Bar

3/10 - New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa

3/11 - Houston, TX @ Pearl Bar

3/12 - Dallas, TX @ Sue Ellen's

3/13-17 - Austin, TX @ SXSW

Tue, 01/24/2017 - 9:49 am

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the iconic comedy classic Wayne's World, SpectiCast and Paramount Pictures are hosting excellent, two-night, theatrical events on February 7th and 8th, 2017.  Fans across the U.S. will have the chance to party on with Wayne and Garth when the film returns to more than 400 theaters. The special events will include an exclusive introduction by Peter Travers (Rolling Stone Magazine and ABC-TV) and a videotaped chat with the director and cast members after the film.  Wayne's World was originally released on February 14, 1992.

In addition to the film making its way back to theaters, Wayne's World events will be taking over Aurora, IL and Los Angeles, CA.

In Los Angeles this weekend, (January 27th - January 29th), Entertainment Weekly and Sports Illustrated are partnering for special Wayne's World events taking place during NHL All Star Weekend sponsored by Honda. The film will be showing at the LA Convention Center and fans can spend time at Stan Mikita's Donuts, which will be specially reconstructed for this event.

Aurora (the film's setting), will be celebrating all over the city with over a dozen events happening from early February until July. Plans include a special screening on February 2nd, look-alike contest, an air guitar competition, poster contests, giveaways and much more. Learn more about what is happening in Aurora, here: https://goo.gl/1CbJxG

Fans are also encouraged to keep an ear out, as ticket giveaways are being held with the top classic rock radio stations around the country.

Based on the "Saturday Night Live" sketch of the same name, Wayne's World is a wacky, irreverent pop-culture comedy about the adventures of two amiably aimless metal-head friends, Wayne (Mike Myers) and Garth (Dana Carvey).  From Wayne's basement, the pair broadcast a talk-show called "Wayne's World" on local public access television. Wayne's World, directed by Penelope Spheeris, grossed $183 million in its theatrical run, placing it as the tenth highest-grossing film of 1992 and the highest-grossing of the 11 films based on "Saturday Night Live" skits. The movie features Rob Lowe, Tia Carrere, Lara Flynn Boyle, Brian Doyle-Murray, Robert Patrick, Chris Farley, Ed O'Neill, Ione Skye, Meat Loaf, and Alice Cooper.

Tickets for the February 7th and 8th events may be purchased at www.waynesworld25.com.

"Wayne's World transcends generations to pay tribute to an indelible place in American pop culture," says SpectiCast CEO Mark Rupp. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone Magazine adds, "Director Penelope Spheeris brings out the best in Mike Myers and Dana Carvey while converting a classic SNL sketch into an enduring, full bodied film for the ages."

Paramount Home Media Distribution also will celebrate the anniversary with a Wayne's World Double Feature on DVD and Digital HD, arriving February 14, 2017.  Plus, Wayne's World will be available on iTunes with new-to-digital extras, including a Director's Commentary and Making-Of featurette.

Mon, 02/13/2017 - 12:44 pm

On the heels of their signing and album announcement last week,Louisiana bilingual pop project, Sweet Crude, has announced an upcoming nationwide tour. Headline dates kick off on April 18th, 2017 at The Record Bar in Kansas City, MO. A list of the full routing can be found below. Tickets are on sale today and can be purchased at https://goo.gl/0j4eML 

The band has also been confirmed to perform at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on The Gentilly stage on Friday, May 5th and also have upcoming shows with Lake Street Dive, Big Freedia, Royal Teeth and more.

Sweet Crude recently announced their upcoming new album, Créatures, which will be released on April 21st, 2017 through Rhyme & Reason Records. The album is available for pre-order today and fans can stream their song "Isle Dans La Mer" on Spotify here: https://goo.gl/OzZtYr

Sweet Crude is a young 6-piece composed of New Orleans musicians creating a sound that sets English and Louisiana's native French dialect to decidedly non-Cajun music. The band, boasting surnames like Marceaux and Chachere, seeks to reconnect with their lineage in the context of 5-part harmonies, tribal rhythms, and pop hooks.

Pre-order Sweet Crude's upcoming album, Créatures, is now available for digital and physical pre-order.

Créatures track listing:

1. Weather The Waves

2. Isle Dans La Mer

3. La Cheminee

4. Mon Espirit

5. Ancient Maps

6. One In The Hand

7. Finger Guns

8. Power Lines

9. Laissez Les Lazy

10. Laces

11. On Est Pares

Sweet Crude debuted in Spring 2013 and have hit the ground running. Music from their EP Super Vilaine can be heard in FX's American Horror Story and the band has been receiving generous amounts of plays nationally and internationally on public, satellite and internet radio. Sweet Crude has tested their frenetic sound on the road, packing venues across the country. They have been praised and featured with publications such as Brooklyn Vegan, PopMatters, and more.

Thu, 02/16/2017 - 11:25 am

Flogging Molly's Salty Dog Cruise is scheduled to set sail March 10th - 13th 2017 to the Bahamas! To debut the mini skate ramp aboard the cruise ship, Matt Hensley and Flogging Molly have invited legendary H-Street Skaters, along with other iconic riders. The ramp is being built by Brian Schaefer of the renowned Skatepark of Tampa.  The third annual three night, four day floating festival will make stops in Coco Cay and Nassau, Bahamas. Skaters include Matt Hensley, Danny Way, John Schultes, Eddie Elguera, Art Godoy, Ron Allen, Tony Mag, Steve Ortega, Sal Barbier and Steve Godoy.

Fans can spend their weekend aboard the Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas cruise ship with some of their favorite bands and skateboarding legends - with food, late night dance parties and plenty of other surprises included! Artists set to perform include Flogging Molly, NOFX, Devotchka, Less Than Jake, The English Beat, Bouncing Souls and more! To book a room or for more information, please visit: http://floggingmollycruise.com.

On the announcement of the skating addition to this annual cruise, Matt Hensley of Flogging Molly shared, ""Since our first Salty Dog Cruise in 2015, I knew I wanted to add skateboarding to it. Something just feels right about skating with live music. It will be a sweet spectacle on the ocean."

H-Street Skateboards was founded in 1986 by professional skateboarder Tony Magnusson and his friend, Mike Ternasky. The two teamed up with fellow pro Dave Andrecht to form one of the first skateboard companies whose main focus was "street" skating along with being one of the first companies run solely by skateboarders. Tony's basic idea was that skateboard companies should be run by skateboarders, not guys in suits that didn't skate, and that skateboarding should be a source of unlimited creative expression.

In 2016, Matt Hensley and Danny Way joined forces with Tony to reissue seven of the original boards released in the '80s-using the original artwork, and original 'Made in USA' manufacturing methods-in what can only be described as a full product restoration operation, to the delight of skateboard collectors worldwide.

Danny Way is now one of the best skateboarders in the world, has set untold records, invented a new form of skateboarding and has founded several companies, including DC Shoes, XYZ Clothing and Plan B Skateboards.

Steve Ortega was added to the H-Street Team in 1987 and turned professional in January 1988 with an ease and technical style that helped push street skating into a new era with moves like Tre-flips and kickflip tail, slides to name a few.

Art Godoy was part of the original H-Street crew, as was his twin brother Steve. They were both early innovators in tattoo art and punk rock music and took their art and attitude to create some of the best H-Street graphics of all time. Between the two of them, they created an art style for skateboard graphics that was totally unique and have never been duplicated.

Tony Magnusson started skateboarding in Stockholm, Sweden in 1976. He jumped on a plane to California with a one-way ticket at age 15 to pursue his life dream of becoming the best skateboarder in the world. While the beginning was humble, over a 20 year time span, Tony Mag travelled the world as a professional skateboarder, started several companies that  have exceeded  $10M  in annual  sales,  including  H-Street  Skateboards  and  Osiris  Shoes.

John Schultes was one of the original Del Mar Skate Ranch rats and rode for Tony Mag's company. The two travelled quite a bit in the early days of 80's skateboarding, including the very first skate camp in Visalia, where they both met Mike Ternasky and the plans to form H-Street began. He stayed with H-Street during the heyday of 80's skating and was good friends with the Godoy's.

Salvador "Sal" Barbier helped revolutionize skateboarding style and fashion in the nineties as an accomplished professional athlete. With more than 20 years in the fashion and action sports industries, Sal keeps a keen fashion sense and an always close-to-market awareness of emerging trends and styles coupled with a career's worth of deep industry relationships within the design, fashion and skateboarding worlds.

Mike saw Matt Hensley's skateboarding and gave him a box of H-Street decks just before calling Tony Magnusson to inform him that the future of H-Street had arrived. By the time Matt's footage in Shackle Me Not dropped two years later, a new generation of skateboarders would agree.

Ron Allen made his skateboard mark on the world with his ollies while riding for H-Street Skateboards in the late 80's with fellow Salty Dog Cruise skateboarders Danny Way, Matt Hensley and many others. Ron is probably the oldest veteran street skating pro still shredding and competing at over 50 years old.  Ron is a true skateboarder untainted by the industry pit falls; to him everything about skateboarding is fun.  Beyond skating, Ron's other passions include music, which he's also done for over 25 years.

In 1979, Eddie Elguera, or "El Gato," received the title of U.S. Amateur Skateboard Association Champion.  He then went on to the professional circuit and became Skateboarder of the Year, along with receiving the "Most Spectacular New Maneuver" award for inventing the Elguerial, a skateboard maneuver named after him. Now in his 50's, he still competes around the world in the Legends Division of Skateboarding. He is considered an innovator, mentor and inspiration to many in the skateboard industry including Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, Christian Hosoi and Eric Koston.

Itinerary:

March 10th - Day at Sea

March 11th - Coco Cay, Bahamas

March 12th - Nassau, Bahamas

March 13th - Return to Miami, Florida

Bands:

Flogging Molly

NOFX

Devotchka

Less Than Jake

The English Beat

Bouncing Souls

CJ Ramone

The Skatalites

The Bunny Gang

Punk Rock Karaoke

Beans on Toast

Voodoo Glow Skulls

Sex Stains

Zander Schloss

The Cherry Coke$

Flatfoot 56

Mickey Rickshaw

Askultra

West Lindy

Jon Gazi

The Attack

Pasadena

The Potato Pirates

Captain of the Head

Dylan Walsh

Brogue Wave

Wed, 03/01/2017 - 11:26 am

Grammy-nominated artist Matisyahu has teamed up with Fuse to exclusively premiere his new single "Step Out Into The Light" today! "Step Out Into The Light" is the first single to release off of his upcoming record, due out this year. Fans can experience the new single live when Matisyahu kicks off his national tour tomorrow, visiting 17 cities along the way (all dates listed below)! Listen to "Step Out Into The Light" via Fuse, here: https://goo.gl/pY0x21.

"Step Out Into The Light" is an introduction to Matisyahu's most courageous release to date and lyrically his most vulnerable. The vulnerability felt throughout the lyrical narrative comes from acceptance in uncertainty. "Step Out Into The Light" sets the tone for the record, as Matisyahu delves into a musical reframing of the Jewish philosophical differences between the constant of faith and the immediacy of trust.

When Matisyahu first started touring to packed clubs more than eleven years ago, it was prior to the release of Live at Stubbs, the now Gold record, and prior to that record's single "King Without A Crown" reaching #1 on the alternative rock radio charts.  His performances were a raw expression of his spirituality at that time and were supported by musicians who played a foundation of roots reggae augmented by the energy of a rock trio. Fans latched on quickly for a variety of reasons, but in August of 2005, just months after the release of Live at Stubbs, Matisyahu found himself on stage at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival with the de facto leader of improvisational rock-n-roll; Phish's front man Trey Anastasio.

"King without a Crown" climbed the charts and Matisyahu's follow up record Youth was nominated for a Grammy, but the blessings and curses of mainstream success each took root. While Matisyahu's bands have always been comprised of serious multidimensional players who have artfully molded the foundations of roots reggae into many genres, that early; if only a brief display of complete surrender to the music, seemed in some way to take a back seat. Through his lyrics however, Matisyahu developed a more personal, artistic, and sophisticated way to express the yearning for deep spiritual meaning, and as his own beliefs opened up to find more variety and depth, the desire for his performances to match the unpredictable flow of life developed as well.

Now, more than a decade and 9 records later, Matisyahu has formed a band that truly gives itself over to the music on par with his lyrical desire to connect to something beyond the self. The band features original Stubbs guitarist and longtime staple of the downtown New York improv scene Aaron Dugan, Dub Trio bassist and long-time Matisyahu collaborator Stu Brooks, Joe Tomino drummer of the dub trio and drummer for Matisyahu since 2009, percussionist and Cyro Baptista go-to-drummer Tim Keiper, and Virtuoso keyboardist Big Yuki.

For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com.

Fri, 03/03/2017 - 9:13 am
The Cuckoos, consisting of Kenneth Frost (vocals, keyboards) Dave North (lead guitar, backing vocals) Eric Ross (bass guitar) and Cole Koenning (drums), first began making music in 2014. Listeners have praised the band's uncanny ability to bring back the sounds of psychedelic rock from the 1960s in their original songs—an especially impressive feat considering their ages. Recently, the band started exploring elements of electronics, funk, jazz and blues to create a totally nostalgic and retro vibe, while remaining incredibly fresh and new. 
 
Imagine The Doors, Joy Division, and Rick James writing songs with Tame Impala to begin to get the picture, but be aware, The Cuckoos are carving their own path, hungry to become more than the sum total of the music that has inspired them. Classic Rock Magazine rightly christened their psychedelic garage rock “spectacular,” declaring the band “hip young dudes who mine the late sixties acid rock scene for inspiration, but sound so authentic you’ll think you’re having a flashback.”
 
The Cuckoos, have just released a new single called “Get It On”, which is taken from their forthcoming debut EP, due out April 14th. You can listen to the fuzzy ‘60s-inspired track, here:

Fri, 03/03/2017 - 12:59 pm
Fort plain natives and sibling blues-rockers Jocelyn & Chris Arndt don't get home to the Capital Region very often, which is why they are thrilled to announce that they will be co-headlining this year's MOVE Music Festival. The festival will take place in Albany the weekend of April 27th-29th. For more information, please visit:   www.jocelynandchrismusic.com, or www.movemusicfest.com.
 
On the upcoming festival, Jocelyn shares: "It's been non-stop this past year: California, Texas, Tennessee. 21 states since March. But there really is no place like home. Cheesy, but totally true. We can't wait to rock on home turf again."
 
In 2016, Jocelyn & Chris released their highly anticipated debut full-length Edges, featuring special guests G Love and Gov't Mule's Danny Louis. The duo is currently gearing up to release their next full-band rock effort, Go, due out in early April. For more information, please visit: www.jocelynandchrismusic.com
Tue, 03/07/2017 - 3:58 pm

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund is proud to announce "Strange 80s," the inaugural annual benefit concert set to take place on Sunday, May 14th at the Fonda Theater. Hosted by Finn Wolfhard of the Netlfix hit "Stranger Things," "Strange 80s" will feature performances by Finn and a rotating cast of rock stars & celebrities covering the timeless anthems of the 80s! Tickets for "Strange 80s" will go on sale to the public on Friday, March 10th at 10am PT, with VIP tickets being sold at a later date via CrowdRise. All proceeds will go to Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to provide financial assistance to career musicians and music industry workers in need due to illness, disability or age-related problems. For more information, please visit: http://sweetrelief.org.

Performers include: Tenacious D, "Weird Al" Yankovic, and Sarah Silverman, plus members of OK Go, Taking Back Sunday, Velvet Revolver, Steel Panther, Filter, Anberlin, Goldfinger, Sugarcult, Anthrax, Precious Kid, Filter, and Honey Honey, plus TV stars: Dylan Minnette, Braeden Lemasters, Hayley Orrantia (from The Goldbergs), and Chelsea Telmadge (from Stranger Things), with additional performers to be announced over the next few weeks!

In addition to a full concert of musicians and actors covering anthems of the 80s, "Strange 80s" will feature a Silent Auction offering exclusive, big-ticket items and experiences. Plus, 250 lucky winners will continue the festivities with a rooftop after-party featuring Rain Man from Krewella and more to be announced.

With excitement towards the upcoming festivities, Artist & Global Ambassador Matthew Leone explains, "As a career musician, Sweet Relief came to my rescue a few years back when I was severely injured in an attack. Knowing intimately, the paramount value of this work, we are humbled and grateful for the caliber of artists enlisted to participate in what will unquestionably be the best party and show of the year."

Sweet Relief was founded by singer-songwriter Victoria Williams in 1993. Victoria, while on a career-making tour with Neil Young was forced to drop off mid-schedule after experiencing unexplained debilitating symptoms. A long and painful diagnostic process revealed she had multiple sclerosis. After her diagnosis, a group of friends assembled an all-star album of Victoria's songs, Sweet Relief, which alleviated much of her medical debt. Vic, knowing that there were many musicians like her - unable to afford medical expenses and compromised in their ability to work - donated some of her proceeds from the album to found Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. The name of the fund derives from a song of Victoria's, Opelousas (Sweet Relief) and the fact that we do provide sweet relief in the form of financial assistance to many musicians who would otherwise be in untenable predicaments.

EVENT DETAILS:

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund Presents "Strange 80s"

DATE: Sunday, May 14th 2017

VENUE: The Fonda Theater | 6126 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

TICKETS: On Sale March 10th @10am PT | All Ages

TIME: Doors - 6pm | Show - 8pm

Tue, 03/14/2017 - 6:21 pm

Sibling blues-rockers Jocelyn & Chris Arndt are thrilled to announce that they will be releasing their highly anticipated sophomore album Go on May 5th, 2017. For more information, please visit: jocelynandchrismusic.com.

On the new album, the band shares: "Another year, another album! When we started writing Go, we were nervous; making a record is daunting, and I think we were both worried we wouldn't have anything to say to the world. But then we started writing, and everything began to make sense again. We put our hearts and our backs into this record, and we hope you'll love listening to it as much as we loved creating it."

In 2016, Jocelyn & Chris released their debut full-length Edges, featuring special guests G Love and Gov't Mule's Danny Louis. Edges premiered in full via Glide Magazine, with tracks premiering via: Paste Magazine, Relix Magazine, The 405, and Baeble Music.

In December 2016, Jocelyn & Christ released Still: A Holiday Collection, a 6-song holiday EP. The collection comprises both time-honored classics and more modern additions, including their original holiday song "Still." The holiday EP premiered via Baeble Music.

On January 11th, 2017, the band released a brand new live album titled 30,000 Miles. The album features recordings from across the country, with performances from legendary venues and music festivals. 30,000 Miles premiered in full via Glide Magazine, and is currently #8 on the Jambands Top 30 Chart.

Devastatingly powerful vocals & retro-rock guitar, with lyrics that run the gamut between vulnerable to all-out venomous, siblings Jocelyn & Chris Arndt's music is a modern throwback to authentic album-rock. Their full-length debut Edges, featuring their band and special guests G. Love and Gov't Mule's Danny Louis, peaked at #14 on the Jambands Top 30 and cracked the FMQB AAA Top 200 Albums and Singles, bolstered by airplay on more than 200 stations across the US.

Together with their band, Jocelyn & Chris logged performances in 21 states in the past 12 months, including stops at The Sundance Film Festival, Mountain Jam Music Festival, SXSW, The Viper Room and Hotel Café in Hollywood, Milwaukee's Summerfest, where they were voted "Best Band" on the emerging artist stage, and numerous other top venues and events.

The Arndts' recordings strike an effortless blend of angst and personal emotion, while their live performances are simply incredible. According to Baeble Music, "Jocelyn's powerhouse vocals combined with Chris' bluesy guitar playing make for a satisfying, soulful punch."

Edges is the full-length follow-up to the band's seven-song EP Strangers In Fairyland. For more information, please visit www.Jocelynandchrismusic.com.

Thu, 03/30/2017 - 7:00 am

The Cuckoos, consisting of Kenneth Frost (vocals, keyboards) Dave North (lead guitar, backing vocals) Eric Ross (bass guitar) and Cole Koenning (drums), first began making music in 2014. Listeners have praised the band's uncanny ability to bring back the sounds of psychedelic rock from the 1960s in their original songs—an especially impressive feat considering their ages. Recently, the band started exploring elements of electronics, funk, jazz and blues to create a totally nostalgic and retro vibe, while remaining incredibly fresh and new. They recently completed a successful first-ever appearance at SXSW and aren’t slowing down any time soon, booking shows across their home-state and overseas.

Check out their newest release, “Mind Breakthrough."

Thu, 03/30/2017 - 12:36 pm

Sibling blues-rockers Jocelyn & Chris Arndt are thrilled to announce that they have premiered their brand new single "Footprints on the Moon (feat. Danny Louis of Gov't Mule)" via AXS. Fans can check out the track, which is the first single from their highly anticipated sophomore album Go, here: https://goo.gl/rdCa6I. The band will release Go on May 5th, 2017. For more information, please visit: www.jocelynandchrismusic.com.

On the track, Jocelyn Arndt shares: "This is a song for all you dreamers out there, you movers and shakers with big plans and even bigger hearts. Pop on your astronaut helmet, turn up the sass, and prepare for takeoff: you're going places. 'Forget my name in the stars on the boulevard, someday soon... I'll have footprints on the moon!'"

In 2016, Jocelyn & Chris released their debut full-length Edges, featuring special guests G Love and Gov't Mule's Danny LouisEdges premiered in full via Glide Magazine, with tracks premiering via: Paste Magazine, Relix Magazine, The 405, and Baeble Music.

In December 2016, Jocelyn & Christ released Still: A Holiday Collection, a 6-song holiday EP. The collection comprises both time-honored classics and more modern additions, including their original holiday song "Still." The holiday EP premiered via Baeble Music.

On January 11th, 2017, the band released a brand new live album titled 30,000 Miles. The album features recordings from across the country, with performances from legendary venues and music festivals. 30,000 Miles premiered in full via Glide Magazine, and is currently #8 on the Jambands Top 30 Chart.

Devastatingly powerful vocals & retro-rock guitar, with lyrics that run the gamut between vulnerable to all-out venomous, siblings Jocelyn & Chris Arndt's music is a modern throwback to authentic album-rock. Their full-length debut Edges, featuring their band and special guests G. Love and Gov't Mule's Danny Louis, peaked at #14 on the Jambands Top 30 and cracked the FMQB AAA Top 200 Albums and Singles, bolstered by airplay on more than 200 stations across the US.

Together with their band, Jocelyn & Chris logged performances in 21 states in the past 12 months, including stops at The Sundance Film Festival, Mountain Jam Music Festival, SXSW, The Viper Room and Hotel Café in Hollywood, Milwaukee's Summerfest, where they were voted "Best Band" on the emerging artist stage, and numerous other top venues and events.

The Arndts' recordings strike an effortless blend of angst and personal emotion, while their live performances are simply incredible. According to Baeble Music, "Jocelyn's powerhouse vocals combined with Chris' bluesy guitar playing make for a satisfying, soulful punch."

Edges is the full-length follow-up to the band's seven-song EP Strangers In Fairyland. For more information, please visit www.Jocelynandchrismusic.com.

Fri, 03/31/2017 - 10:20 am

Grammy-nominated Reggae artist Matisyahu has officially announced his sixth studio album, Undercurrent, which is set to release on May 19th via Thirty Tigers. Undercurrent is musically Matisyahu's most courageous release to date and lyrically his most vulnerable. Nearly thirteen years after the release of his first studio record, Matisyahu and his band have done something unmatched in his past repertoire.

Touching on the significance of this new recording experience, Matisyahu explains. "This is the first album I've made that is produced by myself and the band with out any outside forces involved. It's my baby. No compromises, full artistic integrity."

The vulnerability felt throughout the lyrical narrative comes from acceptance in uncertainty. The first single from the album, "Step Out Into The Light", sets the tone for the record, as Matisyahu delves into a musical reframing of the Jewish philosophical differences between the constant of faith ('Emunah') and the immediacy of trust ('Bitachon').

Regarding this framework Matisyahu reflects, "Emunah is nothing more than an understanding that God runs the world and is part of the world in every way and in every dimension. Bitachon is a trust or reliance in God (or friends, family, etc.) for your own personal journey through this world. Someone can intellectually understand or emotionally have faith that the world is beyond the self, but still have no trust that world cares at all about his own personal life and journey. I.e. One can have emunah but no bitachon."

The courage in the music comes from trust. Trust in the band, and only in the band. There are no post-production bells and whistles or litany of special guests on Undercurrent. The band improvised for hours in the studio with Matisyahu watching on as an admirer without singing a single lyric. Out of the improvisations grew melodic themes, rhythmic peaks and valleys, blissful and proto-song guitar passages, deep dub meditations and ultimately an inspired instrumental record until itself. Only once the band had crafted this musical narrative, did Matisyahu begin to work on a lyrical narrative of his own.

The level of interplay between Matisyahu and his band mates on Undercurrent is unquestionable - with each replay, the album reveals a guitar line from longtime guitarist, Aaron Dugan, which elevates a vocal melody that only 15 years of experience together can achieve. Keyboard patterns from BigYuki unrealized in a previous listen connect one song to another and the full band improvisations with Dub Trio bassist and drummer Stu Brooks and Joe Tomino climax with an impressive exploratory section on the record's final track "Driftin'".

With this album, Matisyahu and his band have achieved a musical retelling of the Matisyahu story that explores the forces within that inspire us all, challenge us all, break us down, lift us up, and yet are rarely obvious to the outside observer.

Ultimately, Undercurrent is a fully realized concept album crafted by a band-of-brothers who have learned to hold a conversation that is both comforting and challenging at the same time. It plays like a revelatory session with a great psychotherapist.

The visual component of Undercurrent falls into the same level of exploration and creativity, as Matisyahu explains, "Artist/designer Joey Bayer created the cover art and comic to follow based on fantasy versions of the band members and myself. At times during shows I've found myself lost in trance where the band becomes a unit of spiritual warriors fighting to free the souls of the youth. We've created all of the album art around this fantasy."

Matisyahu's upcoming album Undercurrent is set to release on May 19th! For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com.

Undercurrent Tracklisting:

01. Step Out Into The Light

02. Back To The Old

03. Coming Up Empty

04. Blue Sky Playground

05. Tell Me

06. Forest of Faith (Emunah)

07. Head Right

08. Driftin'

Thu, 04/13/2017 - 7:11 am
Psychedelic rock band, The Cuckoos, are exclusively streaming their self-titled debut EP with Relix. Listen HERE. "The quartet's blend of funk, blues and psychedelic sounds has evoked comparisons to Tame Impala, Joy Division and The Doors", Relix notes. "[Their EP] builds on the band's captivating blend of genres, evoking the 1960s through a contemporary lens." The 8-song collection, which will be available on 4/14, was recorded between a garage and a church in the heart of Austin and "tells the story of psychedelic love, heartbreak, and new beginnings", according to vocalist/keyboardist Kenneth Frost. In support of the record, the band will be playing shows in a number of Texas cities, including San Antonio, Houston and Dallas, in addition to their hometown of Austin. The band will also be touring overseas for the first time come this June. For more information on The Cuckoos, please visit: http://www.thecuckoosaustin.com
 
Leading up to the release, The Cuckoos unveiled two tracks from the EP. Lead single, "Get It On", premiered with Glide Magazine, who described, "Charismatic lead singer Kenneth Frost definitely brings to mind Jim Morrison, but even with the presence of an organ there is a more modern dance groove happening that makes you want to gyrate." Likewise, follow-up single, "Mind Breakthrough", was featured on Pancakes & Whiskey, who praised the song saying, "Immediately after pressing play we are transported to another time, and possibly another dimension."
 
Drawing inspiration from vintage pop, psychedelic rock, funk and blues, The Cuckoos have been recognized for their ability to bring back the sounds of the 1960s in their original songs. Classic Rock Magazine christened their psychedelic garage rock "spectacular," declaring the band "hip young dudes who mine the late sixties acid rock scene for inspiration, but sound so authentic you'll think you're having a flashback."
 
The Cuckoos were formed in 2014 by lead vocalist/keyboardist, Kenneth Frost, and lead guitarist/backing vocalist, Dave North. To flesh out their lineup, North introduced Frost to a pair of his longtime friends, including powerhouse drummer Cole Koenning and bassist Eric Ross. Together, despite their young ages, the four musicians have quickly amassed a body of work that evokes a nostalgic classic-rock sound, yet remains fresh and innovative.
 
In their short time as a band, The Cuckoos have earned a number of accolades, including #1 Psychedelic Band to See Live by Classic Rock Magazine (Pink Floyd Issue), and #1 Emerging Psychedelic Band by The Deli Austin in 2015. "We just want to make music that makes people feel good and feel bad," Frost explains. "We just want them to feel something; something that's passionate and honest."
 
The Cuckoos' self-titled debut EP is out this Friday, 4/14.
Fri, 05/19/2017 - 9:12 am

Grammy-nominated Reggae artist Matisyahu has officially released his sixth studio album, Undercurrent today! Undercurrent is musically Matisyahu's most courageous release to date and lyrically his most vulnerable. Nearly thirteen years after the release of his first studio record, Matisyahu and his band have done something unmatched in his past repertoire. The album is now available for streaming via Mass Appeal and for purchase via iTunes, Amazon, and PledgeMusic.

Touching on the significance of this new recording experience, Matisyahu explains. "This is the first album I've made that is produced by myself and the band with out any outside forces involved. It's my baby. No compromises, full artistic integrity."
 
The vulnerability felt throughout the lyrical narrative comes from acceptance in uncertainty. Matisyahu explains, "This record is like, Abraham's walk back down the mountain. After he's made this kind of breakthrough experience, like how does he now come back to life? And that's kind of what this period of time in my life has been all about. Like "Okay, now you broke out of bad relationships, bad habits, religious practices that weren't working for you, philosophical, you know, mental ties that you had to things." And, and then it's like, "Okay, where are you now?" You know? And that's kind of what this record is."
 
The courage in the music comes from trust. Trust in the band, and only in the band. There are no post-production bells and whistles or litany of special guests on Undercurrent. The band improvised for hours in the studio with Matisyahu watching on as an admirer without singing a single lyric. Out of the improvisations grew melodic themes, rhythmic peaks and valleys, blissful and proto-song guitar passages, deep dub meditations and ultimately an inspired instrumental record until itself. Only once the band had crafted this musical narrative, did Matisyahu begin to work on a lyrical narrative of his own.
 
The level of interplay between Matisyahu and his band mates on Undercurrent is unquestionable - with each replay, the album reveals a guitar line from longtime guitarist, Aaron Dugan, which elevates a vocal melody that only 15 years of experience together can achieve. Keyboard patterns from BigYuki unrealized in a previous listen connect one song to another and the full band improvisations with Dub Trio bassist and drummer Stu Brooks and Joe Tomino climax with an impressive exploratory section on the record's final track "Driftin'".
 
With this album, Matisyahu and his band have achieved a musical retelling of the Matisyahu story that explores the forces within that inspire us all, challenge us all, break us down, lift us up, and yet are rarely obvious to the outside observer.
 
Ultimately, Undercurrent is a fully realized concept album crafted by a band-of-brothers who have learned to hold a conversation that is both comforting and challenging at the same time. It plays like a revelatory session with a great psychotherapist.
 
The visual component of Undercurrent falls into the same level of exploration and creativity, as Matisyahu explains, "Artist/designer Joey Bayer created the cover art and comic to follow based on fantasy versions of the band members and myself. At times during shows I've found myself lost in trance where the band becomes a unit of spiritual warriors fighting to free the souls of the youth. We've created all of the album art around this fantasy."
 
Matisyahu's album Undercurrent is officially out today, May 19th! For more information, please visit: http://matisyahuworld.com
 
Undercurrent Tracklisting:
01. Step Out Into The Light
02. Back To The Old
03. Coming Up Empty
04. Blue Sky Playground
05. Tell Me
06. Forest of Faith (Emunah)
07. Head Right
08. Driftin'
Tue, 06/06/2017 - 6:31 am

The Dull Blue Lights are premiering their new single, “A Deeper Blue”, exclusively today with Glide Magazine. Listen HERE. “Straight out of the gate the song is an energetic romp exploding with garage rock riffs and boogie woogie piano”, Glide Magazine notes. “Even though the song title seems to contradict the band’s new name, it definitely announces to the world that these guys are stronger than ever and ready to kick some serious ass with their blazing rock and roll.” Featuring production by Andrija Tokic (Alabama Shakes, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Benjamin Booker, Clear Plastic Masks), “A Deeper Blue” is the latest single from The Dull Blue Lights’ forthcoming self-titled debut album, due out on July 13th. To celebrate the release, the band will be playing a hometown show that night at the Barbary in Philadelphia.

The Dull Blue Lights are a band in between. Drawing from influences as varied as Motown soul, Nuggets psychedelia, and Jamaican rocksteady, the Philadelphia-based group’s definitive blend of cascading harmonies, screaming guitars and relentlessly grooving rhythms lives somewhere between each one. The band calls this in-between sound Basement Soul.

"We acknowledge that genre exists, but have no interest in confining ourselves to being just a soul band, or a mod band, or a reggae band, and on and on,” lead vocalist/guitarist, Todd Fausnacht, explains. For the band, any type of music they enjoy can become part of the Dull Blue Lights Sound. "For us personally, coming from a scene full of vintage throwback bands, it’s a refreshing change.”

Formerly known as The Snails, The Dull Blue Lights transformed immensely during the writing of their debut album. "When we started writing this record, we were one band, but by the time we finished recording, we were a different band entirely,” Fausnacht elaborates. "We unintentionally told a story of transformation and metamorphosis, which ultimately ended with us becoming The Dull Blue Lights.”

Featuring all-analog recording, The Dull Blue Lights was tracked live in five consecutive 12-hour-long sessions at The Bomb Shelter in Nashville, TN with producer Andrija Tokic. With songs nodding to rockabilly, soul, reggae, garage and more, The Dull Blue Lights is an album with a little bit of everything. As drummer, Josh Parry, puts it, “This album is a cathartic journey of a band searching for itself, and discovering that it is everything all at once. We had our fun making it, and we couldn’t be more excited to see everyone else have their fun listening to it.”

The Dull Blue Lights are Todd Fausnacht (lead vocals/lead guitars), Ben Parry (bass/vocals), Tim Hildebrand (guitar/vocals), Matt MacLeod (organ/vocals) and Josh Parry (drums/vocals).

Upcoming Tour Dates:

6/02 - Dogfish Head - Rehoboth Beach, DE (w/ Richard Lloyd of Television)

6/09 - Ortlieb’s - Philadelphia, PA (w/ Matt Kelly, Stuyedeyed, The Bad Larrys)

6/11 - Punk Rock Bowling - Asbury Park, NJ

6/18 - World Café Live - Philadelphia, PA (w/ Daniel Romano)

7/13 - The Barbary - Philadelphia, PA (Album release show)

Wed, 06/21/2017 - 12:17 pm
After playing countless shows across their homestate of Texas, and recently completing a successful first-ever UK tour, psychedelic rock band The Cuckoos are set to make their New York City debut at Pianos on Wednesday, July 12th. "We are super stoked to kick out the jams in the Big Apple," explains vocalist/keyboardist, Kenneth Frost. "New York is a super groovy place and it should be a really interesting experience." The show comes in support of the band's recently released self-titled debut EP, which was praised by Relix, who wrote, "It builds on the band's captivating blend of genres, evoking the 1960s through a contemporary lens." Advance tickets are on-sale now and available HERE. For more information, please visit: http://www.thecuckoosaustin.com.
 
With the release of their self-titled debut EP, The Cuckoos have garnered praise for their ability to bring back the sounds of the 1960s through their original songs. Glide Magazine likened the "rock and roll magic being conjured" by The Cuckoos to "The Doors, Joy Division and Rick James writing songs with Tame Impala," while Pancakes And Whiskey lauded the band's classic, yet modern sound by writing, "Immediately after pressing play we are transported to another time, and possibly another dimension." Similarly, Classic Rock Magazine christened The Cuckoos' psychedelic garage rock "spectacular," declaring the band "hip young dudes who mine the late sixties acid rock scene for inspiration, but sound so authentic you'll think you're having a flashback."
 
Following its release, the EP hit #53 on NACC Radio 200, #13 on NACC Radio 200 Adds and #34 on FMQB Alt Spec Albums. The success of the EP also helped make possible a two-week tour of the UK, which wrapped up on June 18th.
 
The Cuckoos were formed in 2014 by lead vocalist/keyboardist, Kenneth Frost, and lead guitarist/backing vocalist, Dave North. To flesh out their lineup, North introduced Frost to a pair of his longtime friends, including powerhouse drummer Cole Koenning and bassist Eric Ross. Together, despite their young ages, the four musicians have quickly amassed a body of work that evokes a nostalgic classic-rock sound, yet remains fresh and innovative.
 
In their short time as a band, The Cuckoos have earned a number of accolades, including #1 Psychedelic Band to See Live by Classic Rock Magazine (Pink Floyd Issue), and #1 Emerging Psychedelic Band by The Deli Austin in 2015. "We just want to make music that makes people feel good and feel bad," Frost explains. "We just want them to feel something; something that's passionate and honest."
Tue, 08/08/2017 - 3:48 pm
The Seaport Music Festival is proud to announce its 15th anniversary celebration in partnership with The Village Voice and South Street Seaport Museum! The Seaport Music Festival has been gathering New Yorkers and tourists alike with authentic programming in a unique setting for the past 15 years. The festival will continue that legacy with an eye on the future, while also celebrating the rich history of this awe-inspiring venue in Lower Manhattan. With the 50th anniversary of the museum together with the 15th anniversary of the festival, it is an amazing time and opportunity to tell this story. For more information, please visit: http://www.seaportmusicfestival.com.
 
Reflecting on the festival's history, founder Stephen Dima explains, "The Seaport Music Festival is a NY institution. It was a scruffy little festival that could, and that on many occasions, DID. It became a place where you could see bands that nobody else was going to take a chance on in a unique and relatively undiscovered part of Lower Manhattan."
 
In addition to live music, Seaport Music Festival will feature film screenings, comedy and dance. This year's lineup includes performances by:
 
Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, who's self releasing his first album since 2010 called The Hanged Man, and who incidentally has a long, infamous history with the Seaport Music Festival, having performed at the inaugural fest in 2002 plus 5 other subsequent years. At this year's festival, Ted curated a special lineup which includes: comedic, musical and visual artist Jean Grae, heavy-beat minded electronic duo Azar Swan and NYC DIY rock'n'rollers Big Huge. Hosted by Dap
 
New York Night Train DJ Jonathan Toubin has also been invited to curate a line-up, which features The Make-Up, a seminal post-punk band from DC led by Ian Svenonius who announced highly anticipated reunion shows this year. The line-up also includes Martin Rev (The surviving half of one of the most important bands of all time, Suicide), James Chance & The Contortions, The Wolfmanhattan Project, Death Valley Girls, Surfbort and Warm Drag. The acts here are not bonded together through genre but through social relationships and the kind of subterranean aesthetic that built the downtown music culture that changed the world, and became globally ubiquitous, but is rapidly disappearing without a trace from its Manhattan incubator. Seaport Music Festival and New York Night Train combine in their shared mission to keep downtown's underground music heritage alive and in its hometown.
 
The Dance Cartel: Premiere of Wet Clutch, an immersive drive-in dance experience that reinterprets and remixes movie heroines from the last four decades of American film, made possible in part with public funds from Creative Engagement/Creative Learning, supported by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and administered by Lower Manhattan Cultural Council.
 
"The Village Voice has covered and been a part of some of the most iconic cultural moments in New York City's history," said Kerrie Gillis, Chief Revenue Officer of The Village Voice. "Our partnership with theSeaport Music Festival continues that tradition, granting thousands of Voice readers and music fans access to the best the city has to offer at one of NYC's most historic venues."
 
Captain Jonathan Boulware, Executive Director of the South Street Seaport Museum, cited the long connection between the Museum and music over its fifty year history. "In the earliest years of the Seaport Museum, artists like Pete Seeger and others sang on the pier for lunchtime crowds. For years Pier 16 on the East River has been a place to hear music and to connect through that music to the origins of New York itself."
 
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, South Street Seaport Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to telling the story of the rise of New York as a port city and its critical role in the development of the United States. The Museum uses its historic buildings and ships to provide interactive exhibits, education, and experiences.
 
The festival will also feature locally sourced foods from the Fulton Stall Market and oysters from Empire Oyster.
 
One Manhattan Square, a modern glass vertical village at 220 South Street, under development by Extell Development Company, will join as a sponsor of the anniversary celebration.
 
Attracting thousands of attendees each year, Seaport Music Festival has previously showcased performers such as Animal Collective, Suicide, Angelique Kidjo, Hot Chip and many more. For more information, please visit: http://www.seaportmusicfestival.com
Wed, 08/09/2017 - 6:51 am
Walker Lukens has officially announced the upcoming release of his new album Tell It To The Judge, which is set to drop on September 22nd. Produced by Spoon's Jim Eno, this highly anticipated record brings together some of Walker's most prominent tracks to date, such as "Every Night" and "Lifted", with new tunes for fans to enjoy. To celebrate the announcement of Tell It To The Judge, Walker has teamed up with Culture Collide to premiere his new single "Don't Wanna Be Lonely (Don't Wanna Leave You Alone)" today! Take a listen here.
 
With excitement towards the release of his second full length album, Walker explains, "I wanted Tell It To The Judge to feel like one of those late 70s ZZ Top records --fun, to the point, a little funny, full of good grooves... The thing is that it's 2017. I love hip-hop and I can only take so much of that boys drinking around a campfire feel. I mostly play piano and am not that good at guitar. I spend too much time in my head to play good old rock-n-roll. Thus, I give you Tell It To The Judge."
 
Walker Lukens has been called "one of the best songwriters in Texas" (Free Press Houston.) The Austin-based, Houston-bred singer, multi-instrumentalist has been called "wonderfully inventive" (NPR World Cafe,) a "non-sexually intimidating version of Prince'" (Austin Chronicle,) and a "veteran balladeer with sudden indie rock ambitions" (Indy Week).
 
In 2013, Walker released his first full length record Devoted, garnering praise from outlets like NPR's All Songs Considered, American Songwriter, Austin American Statesman, Austin Chronicle, and Billboard. The word spread far and wide, taking Lukens all over the US with his backing band The Side Arms, made up of Kyle Vonderau (guitar), Zac Catanzaro (drums, percussion), Mckenzie Griffin (vocals, keyboard, percussion), and Grant Himmler (bass, vocals).
 
After meeting Spoon drummer Jim Eno in a bar, Walker & The Side Arms started recording new music at with him at his studio, Public Hi-Fi. Their first collaboration, 'Every Night,' has been streamed over a million times now. Their second collaboration, 'Lifted' from Never Understood EP (Modern Outsider) spent 11 weeks in total on the specialty commercial radio charts, including 5 weeks in the Top 5 and 3 weeks at #1!
 
This year, Walker & The Side Arms tackled a U.S. tour and performances at festivals such as Bonnaroo Music + Arts Festival, Firefly Music Festival, Mountain Jam, Float Fest, Savannah Stopover, and more. For more information, please visit: http://www.walkerlukens.com.
Wed, 09/06/2017 - 6:31 pm

The Seaport Music Festival full schedule has officially been announced (SEE BELOW)! From Thursday through Sunday, Seaport Music Festival will celebrate its 15th anniversary in partnership with The Village Voice and South Street Seaport Museum. Seaport Music Festival has been gathering New Yorkers and tourists alike with authentic programming in a unique setting for the past 15 years. The festival will continue that legacy with an eye on the future, while also celebrating the rich history of this awe-inspiring venue in Lower Manhattan. With the 50th anniversary of the museum together with the 15th anniversary of the festival, it is an amazing time and opportunity to tell this story. For more information, please visit: http://www.seaportmusicfestival.com.

In addition to live music, the 2017 Seaport Music Festival, sponsored by Extell Development's One Manhattan Square a new 800-foot condominium tower located at 252 South Street, will feature film screenings, comedy and dance.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, South Street Seaport Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to telling the story of the rise of New York as a port city and its critical role in the development of the United States. The Museum uses its historic buildings and ships to provide interactive exhibits, education, and experiences.

The festival will also feature locally sourced foods from the Fulton Stall Market.

One Manhattan Square, a modern glass vertical village at 252 South Street, under development by Extell Development Company, will join as a sponsor of the anniversary celebration.

Attracting thousands of attendees each year, Seaport Music Festival has previously showcased performers such as Animal Collective, Suicide, Angelique Kidjo, Hot Chip and many more. For more information, please visit: http://www.seaportmusicfestival.com

Seaport Music Festival 2017 Schedule

Thursday, September 7, 2017
Comedy on the Wavertree
Doors at 7pm
Show at 7:30pm
Ophira Eisenberg (NPR'S Ask Me Another)
Adira Amram & The Experience (Funny or Die)
Giulia Rozzi (Comedy Central)
RSVP for entry. First come, first served.

 

Thursday, September 7, 2017
7pm - The Alpaca Gnomes
@ Garden Bar

 

Friday, September 8, 2017
The Dance Cartel's Wet Clutch premiere
8:00 PM - Doors
8:30pm - Show
@ Pier 16 Stage

 

Saturday, September 9, 2017
3:00pm - Doors
4:00pm - Jean Grae
5:00pm - Azar Swan
6:00pm - Big Huge
7:00pm - Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
Hosted by Dap
@ Fulton Street Stage

 

Sunday, September 10, 2017
1pm - Doors
2pm - Warm Drag
2:45pm - Surfbort
3:30 pm - Death Valley Girls
4:15pm - The Nude Party
5:00pm - The Wolfmanhattan Project
5:45pm - James Chance & The Contortions
6:45pm - Martin Rev
7:45pm - The Make-Up
Hosted by Jonathan Toubin (New York Night Train)
@ Pier 16 Stage

 

9pm - Suicide: South Street Seaport, 2007 premiere
Music Film By Howard Thompson & Eric Maché
Featuring Suicide's Alan Vega and Martin Rev
@ Garden Bar
Wed, 09/06/2017 - 6:38 pm

Erin & The Wildfire is a Charlottesville-based band that has been steadily carving out a reputation for themselves in recent years as one of the most captivating live acts to come out of Central Virginia since their formation in 2012. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Erin Lunsford, the band has been making waves throughout Virginia stirring up their unique sonic melting pot of rock, soul, and funk. The group's striking sound, goofy charm and relentless work ethic has propelled them to some of the Commonwealth's biggest stages and they have set their sights even higher with the upcoming release of their long-awaited debut album, Thirst.

Thu, 10/12/2017 - 10:05 am

KANSAS premieres the live track of "Dust In The Wind" with Ultimate Classic Rock today. The feature includes an interview with guitarist Rich Williams. Fans can listen to the song and read the interview here.

Kansas, America's legendary progressive rock band, will release their new live album "Leftoverture Live & Beyond" on November 3, 2017.  This is the first live album since 2009 for the band that has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust in the Wind,' to progressive epics like 'Miracles Out of Nowhere.'

Billboard.com premiered the exclusive first listen of the live track of "Carry On Wayward Son". The feature includes an interview with KANSAS drummer, Phil Ehart. To read the interview and to stream the song, head here: https://goo.gl/dwScdB"Dust In The Wind" will be available tomorrow on all streaming platforms. Links to retailers can be found below:

Kansas Merch-

http://www.kansasband.com 

Amazon - 

http://bit.ly/KansasLeftovertureLiveBeyondAmazon

iTunes - 

http://bit.ly/KansasLeftovertureLiveBeyondApple

Google Play -

http://bit.ly/KansasLeftovertureLiveBeyondGooglePlay

Spotify -  http://spoti.fi/2b0Oi3j 

The upcoming album is now available for pre-order at www.kansasband.com.

"Leftoverture Live & Beyond," produced by Jeff Glixman, features nineteen songs selected from twelve shows recorded during KANSAS's Spring 2017 Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour.  The set list includes classic hits, deep cuts, new songs from 2016's studio album "The Prelude Implicit," and culminates with the band's sextuple-platinum breakthrough album, "Leftoverture," performed in its entirety.

Coinciding with the 40th Anniversary of "Leftoverture," and the release of "The Prelude Implicit," KANSAS embarked on their biggest headlining tour in decades.  The overwhelming success of that tour led the band, along with Inside Out Music, to release selected songs from the tour as a live album.

"When we saw how much our fans enjoyed the Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour shows, we knew we had to record a live album," said KANSAS drummer, Phil Ehart.  "When it came to finding someone to produce it, we thought the best possible person would be the guy that produced 'Leftoverture' forty years ago.  So, we called Jeff Glixman!"

"I'm really excited with how this live album sounds," adds producer, Jeff Glixman. "This band is on fire. Producing this live album was truly an undertaking, but I am confident that KANSAS fans will enjoy the end result."

"Leftoverture Live & Beyond," will be released on November 3, 2017, on Inside Out Music and is distributed by The Orchard.  The album will be available as a double CD digipak, four 180 Gram Vinyl boxed set, and digitally on iTunes and Google Play.

Leftoverture Live & Beyond Track Listing:

1.) Icarus II

2.) Icarus

3.) Point of Know Return

4.) Paradox

5.) Journey from Mariabronn

6.) Lamplight Symphony

7.) Dust in the Wind

8.) Rhythm in the Spirit

9.) The Voyage of Eight Eighteen

10.) Section 60

11.) Carry On Wayward Son

12.) The Wall

13.) What's on My Mind

14.) Miracles out of Nowhere

15.) Opus Insert

16.) Questions of My Childhood

17.) Cheyenne Anthem

18.) Magnum Opus

19.) Portrait (He Knew)

KANSAS is currently on the Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour.  More information on the tour, including specific Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour dates, can be found at www.kansasband.com.

Mon, 10/23/2017 - 9:49 am

Woven with the threads of funk, soul, gospel, blues and rock -- and executed by some of the industry's most beloved players -- The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown is gearing up to release Volume 2 on January 12, 2018. Collaborators on this release include Vernon Reid (Living Colour,) Speech (Arrested Development,) Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind and Fire,) Fred Wesley (The James Brown Band) and countless other talented musicians. For more information, please visit: www.thebigolnastygetdown.com.

Improvisation is at the root of The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown, which was conceived by bassist John Heintz at a music festival in 2007. Heintz found himself in a jam session with members of Galactic, Papa Grows Funk, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and more, and sought to re-create that serendipitous, unrehearsed vibe that's unexpectedly created and can carry music to unexpected places.

Heintz began presenting the idea to the musicians he'd been meeting on the road. "Everybody seemed interested, but touring schedules being what they are, it was an uphill battle. I asked Derrick Johnson and John Paul Miller from Yo' Mama's Big Fat Booty Band if they'd help me organize a collaborative project and they came on board. We started calling every musician we knew including Frank Mapstone, a knowledgeable producer and musician from FL. Frank and I clicked instantly and it was apparent that he was the most versed in the studio environment. Frank ultimately became my production partner with the Getdown. We have worked side by side for the last decade on this project."

The first Big Ol' Nasty Getdown took place in a 14-bedroom house on Royal Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans in December 2007. Heintz assembled a free-floating ensemble that included 35 musicians from 17 bands, including The Lee Boys, Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Galactic, and Dumpstapunk, as well Ralph Roddenbery and The Funky Meters, Garry "Starchild" Shider and Belita Woods from P. Funk. The eight day session was unplanned and unrehearsed. Bar-b-cue smoked in the backyard, songs were written in the living room and tracks were recorded all over the house, as the inspiration flowed. The result was released as Big Ol' Nasty Getdown's Volume 1.

The first sessions for Volume 2 was cut at a massive cabin in the woods outside of Asheville, NC. "We used the same blueprint," Heintz explains. "We assembled, created a sense of camaraderie in the house and let it fly. We all stayed together for a week straight, living in the house together and basically having a week-long house party during which a lot of the music was written. We then went to a studio down the road and started recording what we were putting down in the house."

This time, more than 50 musicians participated in the making of Volume 2, including Vernon Reid (Living Colour,) Speech (Arrested Development,) Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind and Fire,) Fred Wesley (James Brown, Horny Horns) Karl Denson (The Rolling Stones, Tiny Universe,) Michael Ray and Clifford Adams (Kool and the Gang,) Taylor Dayne, Ryan Martinie (Mudvayne,) RonKat Spearman (Katdelic, Parliament-Funkadelic,) Alvin Ford Jr. (Dumpstaphunk), Norwood Fisher, Angelo Moore, Dirty Walt  (Fishbone), Rev. Desmond D'Angelo (The Soular System) and Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk, The Funky Meters), to name just a few.

"Mantra," the first single, rides Norwood Fisher's big, Bootsy-like bass line pumped up by blasts of brass, the wha wha guitar of Tori Ruffin (The Time) and anchored by the inexorable snare of Jeffry Suttles (Taylor Dayne). Speech assures us that the funk will drill us like a dentist, while Kendra Foster invites us to, "Breathe it out and let it flow."

"As the project progresses, we're seeing an evolution on each album, even from song to song," Mapstone says. "We stay open to the flow of the music. If the groove moves in a different direction, we go with it and follow the creative force in the room. We want to capture the feeling of a late night backstage jam - sounds that only musicians have heard before."

The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown is set to release Volume 2 on January 12, 2018. For more information, please visit: www.thebigolnastygetdown.com.

Wed, 10/25/2017 - 7:24 pm

The Cuckoos have signed a distribution deal with Republic of Music following the success of their self-titled debut EP, released in April 2017. "Republic of Music are delighted to be working with The Cuckoos," explains Mark McQuillan, Managing Director at Republic of Music. "As soon as I heard their excellent EP I knew it was a band we could work with and help build their profile. Great tunes and real promise." Through Republic of Music, the band will be re-releasing their aforementioned EP, featuring a new song "A Little Bit Funky", on 11/24. Pre-order for the updated album is available here. For more information, please visit: http://www.thecuckoosaustin.com.

With the release of their self-titled debut EP, The Cuckoos garnered praise for their ability to bring back the sounds of the 1960s through their original songs. Relix Magazine championed the album, writing, "It builds on the band's captivating blend of genres, evoking the 1960s through a contemporary lens." Glide Magazine also likened the "rock and roll magic being conjured" by The Cuckoos to "The Doors, Joy Division and Rick James writing songs with Tame Impala," while Pancakes And Whiskey lauded the band's classic, yet modern sound by writing, "Immediately after pressing play we are transported to another time, and possibly another dimension." Similarly, Classic Rock Magazine christened The Cuckoos' psychedelic garage rock "spectacular," declaring the band "hip young dudes who mine the late sixties acid rock scene for inspiration, but sound so authentic you'll think you're having a flashback."

Following its release, the EP hit #53 on NACC Radio 200, #13 on NACC Radio 200 Adds and #34 on FMQB Alt Spec Albums. The success of the EP also helped make possible a two-week tour of the UK, a show in New York City and their first-ever Mexico dates taking place this upcoming December.

The Cuckoos were formed in 2014 by lead vocalist/keyboardist, Kenneth Frost, and lead guitarist/backing vocalist, Dave North. To flesh out their lineup, North introduced Frost to a pair of his longtime friends, including powerhouse drummer Cole Koenning and bassist Eric Ross. Together, despite their young ages, the four musicians have quickly amassed a body of work that evokes a nostalgic classic-rock sound, yet remains fresh and innovative.

In their short time as a band, The Cuckoos have earned a number of accolades, including #1 Psychedelic Band to See Live by Classic Rock Magazine (Pink Floyd Issue), and #1 Emerging Psychedelic Band by The Deli Austin in 2015. "We just want to make music that makes people feel good and feel bad," Frost explains. "We just want them to feel something; something that's passionate and honest."

Wed, 11/15/2017 - 6:45 am

Rock-reggae band, Tribal Seeds, are set to release a new EP, Roots Party, on 12/1. The EP will serve as a follow-up to the band’s 2014 full-length album, Representing, which charted on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums. In support of the release, the band will be kicking off their Roots Party Tour, with The Original Wailers and The Expanders, on January 10th in New York, NY. The 20+ date tour will include stops in Pittsburgh, PA, Minneapolis, MN, Las Vegas, NV and more, before wrapping up on February 17th in Ventura, CA. See below for a full list of dates. For more information on Tribal Seeds, please visit: http://tribalseeds.net

Based in San Diego, Tribal Seeds come at their music from a different angle, more influenced by bands like Steel Pulse and Aswad than the common touchstone of Sublime. Formed in 2005 by the Jacobo brothers, singer Steven and producer Tony-Ray, the group issued its debut album, Youth Rebellion, that same year. The album was the first of many to be released on the group’s own label, including a self-titled album in 2008 plus The Harvest from 2009. The Soundwaves EP followed in 2011, while 2014’s Representing cracked the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart and was endorsed by the likes of USA Today.

In March 2017, Tribal Seeds won the San Diego Music Award for Artist of the Year. A new single followed, entitled “Rude Girl” which debuted among iTunes Hot Singles in the Reggae genre.

Tribal Seeds have toured throughout the United States, and have also performed in Mexico, Aruba, Tahiti & Peru. They have shared the stage with artists such as Dave Matthews Band, Jack White, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane’s Addiction, Skrillex, MGMT, Cee Lo Green, Jason Mraz, Matisyahu, Sublime with Rome, Taking Back Sunday, O.A.R., Pretty Lights, Steel Pulse, The Wailers, Julian Marley, Stephen Marley, Gregory Isaacs, SOJA, Rebelution, Pepper, and many more.

Roots Party Tour

Jan 10 - Gramercy - New York, NY

Jan 11 - The Westcott Theater - Syracuse, NY

Jan 12 - Rex Theater - Pittsburgh, PA

Jan 13 - Town Ballroom - Buffalo, NY

Jan 14 - The Stache at The Intersection - Grand Rapids, MI

Jan 17 - Majestic Theater - Madison, WI

Jan 18 - Cabooze - Minneapolis, MN

Jan 19 - Harrah's Kansas City - Voodo - North Kansas City

Jan 20 - The Blue Note - Columbia, MO

Jan 23 - Belly Up Aspen - Aspen, CO

Jan 25 - Aggie Theater - Fort Collins, CO

Jan 26 - The Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO

Jan 27 - Boulder Theater - Boulder, CO

Feb 7    - Senator Theater - Chico, CA

Feb 8    - The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA

Feb 9 - The Catalyst - Santa Cruz, CA

Feb 10 - The Catalyst - Santa Cruz, CA

Feb 11 - One Love Cali Reggae Fest - Long Beach, CA

Feb 14 - Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM

Feb 15 - Rialto Theater - Tucson, AZ

Feb 16 - Brooklyn Bowl - Las Vegas, NV

Feb 17 - Ventura Theater - Ventura, CA

Thu, 11/16/2017 - 8:55 am

New Jersey soul group Robert Randolph & the Family Band have announced a handful of tour dates this December. The short string of shows kicks off in Jackson, WY on December 27 and wraps up in Telluride, CO on New Year's Eve. The band released their latest album, Got Soul, on February 17th, 2017 via Sony Music Masterworks. After the release of Got Soul, Robert Randolph & the Family Band made appearances at notable festivals such as Memphis Fest, LouFest, Mammoth Bluesapalooza, and more, followed by a run of tour dates alongside Phil Lesh. For more information, please visit: http://www.robertrandolph.net.

Often called the "Jimi Hendrix of the pedal steel guitar," and named one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone's David Fricke, Randolph has, since the turn of the century, revolutionized the role of his chosen instrument. One listen to Got Soul - the fifth studio album overall by this virtuosic player and the genre-busting Family Band and first since 2013 - reaffirms that they have truly evolved into one of the most exciting, innovative outfits in contemporary music.

There's certainly no shortage of originality on Got Soul. Produced by multiple Grammy nominee Matt Pierson, the 12-song set runs the gamut from the aforementioned gospel-informed numbers to deep, funky grooves to incendiary rock-and-soul jams. The hauntingly exquisite "Heaven's Calling" features Randolph on solo steel while guest vocalists Anthony Hamilton and Darius Rucker lend their golden pipes to "She Got Soul" and "Love Do What It Do," respectively. "I Thank You," the '60s Sam & Dave R&B smash, is completely reimagined in the hands of the Family Band and Snarky Puppy's very own Cory Henry.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Dec 27 - Jackson, WY @ Center for the Arts

Dec 28 - Park City, UT @ O.P. Rockwell

Dec 29 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room

Dec 31 - Telluride, CO @ Sheridan Opera House

Thu, 11/30/2017 - 9:36 am

On #GivingTuesday, To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) launched the #into18 campaign. The goal of the campaign is to raise $100,000 before December 31st. The campaign is anchored by the idea that each gift and donation will help TWLOHA renew the fight to bring a conversation about mental health into unexpected places and spaces. It also gives our supporters and donors a chance to reflect and answer the question about what they want to bring #into18.

In 2017, TWLOHA shared 125 stories on their blog. These honest and vulnerable posts reached 7 million people on their website and on social media each month.  They were able to have a presence at 111 events and host conversations in front of 1 million people face to face.

This year they sponsored 2,000 counseling sessions and connected 810,000 people to local mental health resources at more than 111 events. They also went beyond connecting people to local mental health resources by sponsoring 2,000 counseling sessions.

"We are incredibly grateful for all the ways people have participated in this conversation. It seems more urgent than ever to be a source of hope and encouragement. We want to use these funds to dream and plan new ways of reaching people that are hurting. We know this message helps save lives." said Lindsay Kolsch.

With your help, we will continue to grow our programs into high schools, expand our reach online and in person, and support those on the road to recovery.

To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. It exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since its start in 2006, TWLOHA has donated over $1.8 million directly into treatment and recovery and answered over 200,000 messages from over 100 countries. For more information, please visit: www.twloha.com

Over the past ten years, TWLOHA has been heralded by press and seen on NBC Nightly News, CBS Sunday Morning, MSNBC, Rolling Stone, Paste Magazine, Relix, US Magazine, Glamour, Yahoo!, The Huffington Post, The Chronicle of Philanthropy, NYLON Guys, MTV, Elle, NPR, and so many more. The organization has seen support from numerous celebrities including actress Jessica Chastain, actor Jared Padalecki, Miley Cyrus, Liv Tyler, Joaquin Phoenix, actress Sophia Bush, singer/songwriter Mat Kearney, USA soccer stars Alex Morgan, Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger, singer/songwriter Christina Perri, rock band Switchfoot, pop rock act The Summer Set, Hayley Williams (Paramore), among others.

This past September TWLOHA wrapped its 6th annual campaign to honor National Suicide Prevention Week and World Suicide Prevention Day. The organization was overwhelmed by the amount of love and support shown during this year's campaign, titled, "Stay. Find what you are made for,"during which over $103.5K was raised for treatment and counseling. The campaign was shared by supporters all over the world, including NBA player Kyle Korver, US Women's National Soccer Team stars Alex Morgan, Christen Press, and Ashlyn Harris, actress Shantel VanSanten, Switchfoot's Jon Foreman, Dustin Kensrue of Thrice, actress and singer Debby Ryan, The Ready Set's Jordan Witzrigreuter, and Jess Bowen of The Summer Set, all of whom were featured in a special video message directed by Dustin Miller, a Florida-based filmmaker and longtime TWLOHA collaborator: https://youtu.be/37cB2CQt_YA.

Fri, 12/15/2017 - 10:44 am

Sibling blues-rockers Jocelyn & Chris Arndt have propelled into the Billboard AAA Top 40 Radio Charts with their latest single, the dark and brooding "Red Stops Traffic." The song debuted at #37 earlier this week, amongst hit artists including The Killers, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Kings Of Leon, Walk The Moon, and more. Fans can check out the recently released video for "Red Stops Traffic," here.

On charting in the Top 40, Jocelyn Arndt shares: "It's been an amazing year for us. You pour your heart and soul into an album and put it out there into the world, never really knowing what's going to happen. But with "Go," we really felt like we had something. The album first started to take off on the Jamband Top 30 (all the way to #2!), and we really started to believe in what we'd made. But we really weren't prepared for this. I mean, Billboard Top 40? Up there right next to our musical heroes?! It's unreal, and it means more than we can say. What a way to round out a great year."

Siblings Jocelyn & Chris Arndt are developing an authentic retro-rock style that gives the sounds they grew up on a millennial twist. They've recorded five releases with guest players including G. Love, Gov't Mule's Danny Louis, Beau Sasser of Kung Fu, and legendary session players Alvin Moody, David Baron, and Ilya Toshinsky.

 In April, Bridge Road Entertainment released Go, Jocelyn & Chris' second full-length studio album.  Go remained at #2 on The Relix Jambands Top 30 Album Chart for 3 consecutive months.  The first two singles from the album were Billboard's #5 and #4 Most Added Triple A Radio Singles in the US, topping out at #64 and #63 on The FMQB Triple A charts nationally.

 Together with their band, Jocelyn & Chris have logged performances across the country, including stops at The Sundance Film Festival, SXSW, CMJ, and Milwaukee Summerfest, where they won the audience vote for "Best Band" on the emerging artist stage. Theyʼve played hallowed stages like The Birchmere, The Viper Room, and The Bitter End. Theyʼve provided direct support for Vertical Horizon, Little Feat, Marc Cohn, The Gin Blossoms, and many others.

 Five releases. Four years touring the country. Airplay on over 200 radio stations nationwide. Two Harvard degrees (well, almost - just give Chris eight more months). No sleep. Countless broken strings. One dream, thirteen years in the making.

Tue, 01/16/2018 - 3:56 pm

Woven with the threads of funk, soul, gospel, blues and rock -- and executed by some of the industry's most beloved players -- The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown's Volume 2 is available worldwide today. Collaborators on this release include Vernon Reid (Living Colour,) Speech (Arrested Development,) Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind and Fire,) Fred Wesley(The James Brown Band), Taylor Dayne and countless other talented musicians.

Volume 2  is available now on SpotifyApple Music, and iTunes.

Improvisation is at the root of The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown, which was conceived by bassist John Heintz at a music festival in 2007. Heintz found himself in a jam session with members of Galactic, Papa Grows Funk, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and more, and sought to re-create that serendipitous, unrehearsed vibe that's unexpectedly created and can carry music to unexpected places.

Heintz began presenting the idea to the musicians he'd been meeting on the road. "Everybody seemed interested, but touring schedules being what they are, it was an uphill battle. I asked Derrick Johnson and John Paul Miller from Yo' Mama's Big Fat Booty Band if they'd help me organize a collaborative project and they came on board. We started calling every musician we knew including Frank Mapstone, a knowledgeable producer and musician from FL. Frank and I clicked instantly and it was apparent that he was the most versed in the studio environment. Frank ultimately became my production partner with the Getdown. We have worked side by side for the last decade on this project."

The first Big Ol' Nasty Getdown took place in a 14-bedroom house on Royal Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans in December 2007. Heintz assembled a free-floating ensemble that included 35 musicians from 17 bands, including The Lee Boys, Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Galactic, and Dumpstapunk, as well Ralph Roddenbery and The Funky Meters, Garry "Starchild" Shider and Belita Woods from P. Funk. The eight day session was unplanned and unrehearsed. Bar-b-cue smoked in the backyard, songs were written in the living room and tracks were recorded all over the house, as the inspiration flowed. The result was released as Big Ol' Nasty Getdown's Volume 1.

The first sessions for Volume 2 was cut at a massive cabin in the woods outside of Asheville, NC. "We used the same blueprint," Heintz explains. "We assembled, created a sense of camaraderie in the house and let it fly. We all stayed together for a week straight, living in the house together and basically having a week-long house party during which a lot of the music was written. We then went to a studio down the road and started recording what we were putting down in the house."

This time, more than 50 musicians participated in the making of Volume 2, including Vernon Reid (Living Colour,) Speech (Arrested Development,) Larry Dunn (Earth, Wind and Fire,) Fred Wesley (James Brown, Horny Horns) Karl Denson (The Rolling Stones, Tiny Universe,) Michael Ray and Clifford Adams (Kool and the Gang,) Taylor Dayne, Ryan Martinie (Mudvayne,) RonKat Spearman (Katdelic, Parliament-Funkadelic,) Alvin Ford Jr. (Dumpstaphunk), Norwood Fisher, Angelo Moore, Dirty Walt  (Fishbone), Rev. Desmond D'Angelo (The Soular System) and Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk, The Funky Meters), to name just a few.

"Mantra," the first single, rides Norwood Fisher's big, Bootsy-like bass line pumped up by blasts of brass, the wha wha guitar of Tori Ruffin (The Time) and anchored by the inexorable snare of Jeffry Suttles (Taylor Dayne). Speech assures us that the funk will drill us like a dentist, while Kendra Foster invites us to, "Breathe it out and let it flow."

"As the project progresses, we're seeing an evolution on each album, even from song to song," Mapstone says. "We stay open to the flow of the music. If the groove moves in a different direction, we go with it and follow the creative force in the room. We want to capture the feeling of a late night backstage jam - sounds that only musicians have heard before."

Mon, 02/26/2018 - 9:26 am

Indie rock/blues band, Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra, have announced a Spring 2018 tour in support of their recently released album, Stereoscope. The string of dates will kick off on March 14th at SXSW, and will include stops in New Orleans, LA, Chicago, IL, Seattle, WA and more, before wrapping up with a set at BottleRock in Napa, CA on May 27th. See below for a full list of dates. For more information on Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra, please visit: www.martyoreilly.com.

Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra are fresh off the release of their critically acclaimed album, Stereoscope, released on February 9th. Co-produced by Cian Riordan (Doyle Bramhall II, Foxygen, Nickel Creek) and the members of the Old Soul Orchestra, the album represents the maturation of artists shedding hero worship and embracing the creativity within. "Stereoscope marks an evolutionary leap in a journey of artistic identity, songwriting maturity, band friendship and fiery group synergy," Glide Magazine recently noted. "Here, Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra homed in on their signature cosmic roots aesthetic, brimming with cinematic songcraft, impressionistic lyrics, clever arrangements, telepathic ensemble interplay, and soulfully world-weary vocals."

Similarly, Cowboys & Indians lauded the album, writing, "The atmospheric tracks on Stereoscope weave together blues, swing, and rock with a hint of psychedelic and even Gypsy undertones, making for an interesting and captivating album from start to finish," while PopMatters praised, "Marty O'Reilly and his orchestra once again prove that old souls are capable of new tricks."

In their five-year existence, Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra have released one previous full-length album, Pray for Rain, one EP, Preach 'Em Now!, and have toured nationally and internationally, selling out venues along the West Coast and throughout the United Kingdom. Select career live performance highlights include Outsidelands Festival, Bottlerock, and the Maverick Festival, where despite being at the bottom of the bill, the group managed to sell more CDs than any other artist in the festival's history.

Additionally, Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra have played shows with Shakey Graves, Deer Tick, Martin Sexton and Kaki King, and were featured on NPR's Weekend Edition. The band's most popular track, "Cold Canary Gaslight," has also surpassed one million Spotify streams.

Marty O'Reilly & the Old Soul Orchestra are Marty O'Reilly (vocals/guitar), Chris Lynch (violin), Ben Berry (bass) and Matt Goff (drums).

Tour Dates

3/14 - Sweetwater Music Showcase @ The Handlebar - Austin, TX (SXSW)

3/16 - Kebabalicious Backyard - Austin, TX (SXSW)

3/18 - Chickie Wah Wah - New Orleans, LA

3/19 - Smiths Olde Bar - Atlanta, GA

3/20 - City Winery - Nashville, TN

3/22 - Pearl Street Warehouse - Washington, DC

3/23 - Dawson Street Pub - Philadelphia, PA

3/24 - Rockwood Music Hall - New York, NY

3/25 - The Burren - Boston, MA

3/27 - Honest Folk - Rochester, NY

3/29 - Club Café - Pittsburgh, PA

3/30 - Dukes - Indianapolis, IN

3/31 - Tonic Room - Chicago, IL

4/04 - Icehouse - Minneapolis, MN

4/06 - Lewis & Clark Brewing - Helena, MT

4/08 - River Run Apres Ski - Sun Valley, ID

4/10 - Tractor Tavern - Seattle, WA

4/11 - Mississippi Studios - Portland, OR

4/12 - Volcani Theatre Pub - Bend, OR

4/13 - Humboldt Brews - Arcata, CA

4/20 - Sonoran Spring Tribal Stomp - Bisbee, AZ

4/21 - The Chapel - San Francisco, CA

5/26 - Denver Day of Rock - Denver, CO

5/27 - BottleRock Festival - Napa, CA

Tue, 03/13/2018 - 9:28 am

Six piece powerhouse Big Something is thrilled to announce they will release their new album The Otherside on April 20th, 2018. The Otherside, the band's 5th full-length studio album, is a follow up to 2017's Tumbleweed, Big Something's most critically acclaimed release to date. Fans can check out the first single, "Sundown Nomad," here. The band will celebrate the release with a 2 night performance at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater in Wilmington, NC during their event The Big What? Wilmington on April 27 & 28. For more information, please visit: www.bigsomething.com.

On the new album, vocalist Nick MacDaniels shared: "We wanted to pay homage to the original concept of "an album" with this release where sitting down and listening to the whole thing is an experience - 20 minutes per side with a break between. Side A complements Side B. This is the first time we've setup an album to fit perfectly on a vinyl record like that."

"This album is special. It felt like we were capturing an important moment together as a band and as brothers." adds drummer Ben Vinograd. "The weight and responsibility to put out a record we were proud of shifted into something much deeper, a way to pay tribute to our friend and lyricist Paul. We wanted to embrace and honor the final words and stories he contributed to our cause."

A 6 piece powerhouse with a sound that is both unique and timeless, Big Something fuses elements of rock, pop, funk, and improvisation to take listeners on a journey through a myriad of musical styles. It's no secret why this group has quickly become one of the most exciting new bands to emerge from the Southeast. Soaring guitars, E.W.I. (electronic wind instrument), synths, horns and alluring vocal hooks rise to the top of their infectious collection of songs and represent a sound that has caught the ears of such revered stalwarts as Umphrey's McGee, Moon Taxi, Galactic, moe., Robert Randolph, and even The B52s, who have all tapped Big Something as direct support.

The Otherside was recorded at Echo Mountain Studios in Asheville, NC with the help of Grammy-nominated producer and Carolina Music Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient - John Custer (Corrosion of Conformity) who has produced all 5 of the bands albums.

On The Otherside, Big Something continues to build upon the post-apocalyptic peyote trip imagery from Tumbleweed, concluding the story of a nomad who has made it to the other side of his journey wandering through the night towards a desert sunrise. The album also showcases a different musical side of the band with a heavier, more focused and soulful collection of 8 songs including "Smoke Signal" - a track that was written for the studio and has never been performed live.

The project is dedicated to the memory of the bands late lyricist and friend Paul Interdonato who tragically passed away on Dec 3, 2017 - the same day the band was setting up in the studio to record. Now each song carries a certain weight as the album features several of the last lyrical compositions that Paul ever wrote for Big Something. It is a thoughtful and poignant musical journey paying tribute to a lifelong friend with a brilliant imagination.

Big Something is Nick MacDaniels (vocals, guitar), Casey Cranford (sax, EWI), Jesse Hensley (lead guitar), Ben Vinograd (drums), Doug Marshall (bass), Josh Kagel (keys, trumpet), and Rhett Huffman (keys).

Upcoming Tour Dates:

3/17 - Roanoke, VA @ Martin's Downtown

3/23 - Telluride, CO @ Sheridan Opera House

3/24 - Telluride, CO @ Sheridan Opera House

3/27 - Durango, CO @ The Animas City Theatre

3/28 - Frisco, CO @ The Barkley Ballroom

3/29 - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater

3/31- Teton Village, WY @ Village Commons

4/3 - Bozeman, MT, @ The Eagles Ballroom

4/4 - Missoula, MT @ Top Hat Lounge

4/5 - Sandpoint, ID @ The Hive

4/6 - Sandpoint, ID @ The Hive

4/7 - Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern

4/10 - Boise, ID @ Neurolux

4/11 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Elevate

4/13 - Steamboat Springs, CO @ Schmiggity's

4/14 - Fort Collins, CO @ Hodi's Half Note

4/18 - Montgomery, AL @ Capri Theatre

4/19-21 - Live Oak, FL @ The Wanee Festival

4/27 - Wilmington, NC @ The Big What? Wilmington

4/28 - Wilmington, NC @ The Big What? Wilmington

5/5 - North Charleston, SC @ Trondossa Music & Arts Festival

5/25-27 - Chillicothe, IL @ Summer Camp Music Festival

5/31-6/2 - Minden, WV @ Mountain Music Festival

6/21-24 - Rothbury, MI @ Electric Forest Festival

6/28-7/1 - Rothbury, MI @ Electric Forest Festival

6/29 - Boston, MA @ House of Blues w/Umphrey's McGee

7/14-15 - Telluride, CO @ The Ride Festival

7/19-22 - Scranton, PA @ The Peach Festival

8/16 - Pittsboro, NC @ The Big What?

8/17 - Pittsboro, NC @ The Big What?

8/18 - Pittsboro, NC @ The Big What?

8/25 - Arrington, VA @ Lockn' Festival

Mon, 04/02/2018 - 12:25 pm

The Nightowls are premiering their new single “Don’t It Feel Weird (Falling In Love)” exclusively today with Glide Magazine. Listen HERE. “Sultry and soulful, the tune is a sizzling nugget of R&B that could easily make a perfect soundtrack for a candlelit evening of love and kisses”, Glide Magazine notes. “Harkrider exudes confidence and suave style as he seems to embrace a sound that is rooted as much in legends like Al Green as it is in contemporaries like Justin Timberlake.” “Don’t It Feel Weird (Falling In Love)” is the first single from The Nightowls’ upcoming album We Are The Nightowls due out on 4/27. For more information, please visit: http://wearethenightowls.com

We Are The Nightowls was written and recorded over the course of two years, following extensive touring in support of 2016’s Royal Sessions, which was labeled an “energetic blend of classic soul and modern pop” by Paste Magazine. "Our previous albums were concept albums paying homage to the historic recording studios in which they were recorded," frontman Ryan Harkrider describes. "This new album is more about capturing the band's sound...it's a more cohesive statement about who we are.” For that reason, the band made this 2018 release their “self-titled” album.

In February 2017, The Nightowls began recording at Fischer Studios in Hill Country Texas with Grammy-nominated producer Chris Bell, whose credits include The Eagles, U2, Erykah Badu and Peter Gabriel, among others. After 3-4 different recording sessions, the band ended up with 20+ songs that they would later listen back to and either discard, rewrite or reshape. By fall of 2017, the story of We Are The Nightowls began to solidify with the help of tracks like “Get Funked up”, “#selfiequeen” and “Lift Me Up”. With a deadline set from Nine Mile Records in late February 2018, the band pushed on, and wrote and recorded what would become the last half of the album (“Don’t it Feel Weird”, “Laybackwittit”, “Can’t Wait to Knock It”) in about 2 months. We Are The Nightowls is now ready for a late April release.

The Nightowls first took Texas by storm in 2014 with the release their debut album, Good As Gold, which was hailed "suave, energetic, blue-eyed soul" by The Austin Chronicle and named one of the Top 10 albums of the year at the annual Austin Chronicle Music Awards. The Austin-based ten-piece followed up this debut with Fame Sessions, recorded at iconic Muscle Shoals studio, in 2015, and the aforementioned Royal Sessions, recorded at the infamous Royal Studios in Memphis, TN, in 2016.

With these releases, the band garnered national attention from The Atlantic, Southern Living, Relix, Performer Magazine, Pollstar, Paste Magazine and more, and brought their "raucous" live show (Austin Monthly) across the US, hitting every corner of North America and playing dozens of festivals including Austin City Limits Festival, KGSR Unplugged at the Grove, Ouray Mountain Air Music Series, The Levitt Pavilion, Blues on the Green and the Double Decker Festival.

“Don’t It Feel Weird (Falling In Love)” is the first single from The Nightowls’ upcoming album We Are The Nightowls, due out on 4/27.

Mon, 07/09/2018 - 12:33 pm

The Great South Bay Music Festival - Long Islands longest running, and largest 4 day, all ages Music & Arts Festival, returns to the picturesque waterfront at Shorefront Park in Patchogue Village from Thursday, July 12 through Sunday, July 15th. 

Celebrating its 12th year, the festival will feature over 65 performers in classic and contemporary rock, jam-band, folk, blues, reggae, and punk genres, on three stages, plus an educational KidZone Children's Stage.

The fest will boast three craft beer tents, wine garden, an artisan and craft market, and food court offering a diverse gourmet menu. 

Great South Bay Music Festival is well known for presenting a musically varied and eclectic lineup of headline as well as emerging original artists. Legends and icons, performing alongside cutting edge rising stars is what the fest has been about since its inception twelve years ago.

"I believe we are the true definition of an organic, community, independent, family-run festival," states festival founder and producer, Jim Faith. "We are not a large fest coming to a community, ... we are our community! Growing up in Brooklyn, I spent many hours in Central Park at the concerts on the Great Lawn, or band-shell. What was different about those shows was the un-mistakeable amount of families. That's what I wanted to bring to Great South Bay. A family friendly, high quality music fest, featuring name artists and emerging original artists in a safe and positive environment".

Thursday will kick off the fest with nine bands including headliners: The Front Bottoms. Fans of the genre will enjoy a full day of hard driving, rabid rock to include Thrice, The Get Up Kids  and native Long Islanders: Envy on the Coast.

Friday: Three Stages: Headlining the main Stage the festival is excited to present Alternative Reggae Rockers Sublime with Rome, plus Dirty Heads, and Less Than Jake. Over 14 artists on three stages.

Saturday is always "Jam-Rock Day" at Great South Bay. Headlining this year and returning for their third visit are Masters of the genre: Umphrey's McGee, plus Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Papadosio, and Grateful Dead "Keepers of the Flame" JGB Feat.Ex-Jerry Garcia band-mate Melvin Seals. Also appearing is Grammy nominated Infamous Stringdusters member, and local guitar phenom, Andy Falco, & Friends.

Sunday - legends and more legends...

Great South Bay is honored and excited to present Allman Brothers Founding Member, singer-songwriter and guitarist: Dickie Betts and his Band. Betts will perform a night of Allman Classics, as well as a heartfelt tribute to Gregg Allman. 

In addition, on the Main Stage: legendary rockers Little Feat, and returning for their fourth time, (and now considered Great South Bay "family",) Electric Hot Tuna. Plus, the Devon Allman Project featuring Duane Betts. (sons of Gregg Allman and Dickie Betts), with nineteen artists' performing throughout the day.

And for the annual special Sunday Morning Kids Concert, Great South Bay is excited to bring back Disney's: Imagination Movers. They will perform at noon. A full menu of educational children's performers to appear all day Saturday & Sunday.

Regarding Great South Bay's commitment to present local and emerging artists, they are thrilled to also present Keep Flying, Cassandra House, I Ignite, Gutterlife, King Neptune, Miles To Dayton, Times Like These, Approaching Troy, Kerry Kearney Band, Quarter Horse, Part Time Bear, Robert Fulton Band, the Om-en, Whatever We Are, Bohemians, Pete Mancini, Ernie & the Band, Samurai Pizza Cats, Dudley Music, Gnarly Karma, Scarabino, and so many more.

Dates/Times:

Thursday, July 12: Doors 3PM to 10PM

Friday, July 13: Doors 3pm to 11PM 

Saturday, July 14: Doors 1PM to 11PM 

Sunday, July 15th: 11:00am doors for Imagination Movers Kids Concert

Sunday Regular Fest Ticket holders: Doors 1:30PM to 10:00PM.  

Shorefront Park is located just a few miles south of LIE, exit 63S.

Ticket price includes all concerts and entertainment. Food & beverages not included. Single day passes and full weekend passes are offered. Children ten and under are free, except for the Imagination Movers concert. To purchase tickets, please visit: http://www.greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com/tickets/ 

An important dimension of Great South Bay is their commitment to community and giving back. Since their very first year, they've used the festival as a tool to help raise funds for needy organizations. A list of those who benefit can be found below. 

Stony Brook Hospital Cancer Center 

One dollar from each ticket purchase will be donated to Stony Brook Hospital Cancer Center. Along with The Sticky Finger Bike Run that Great South Bay Festival ran for the past 11 years, they have raised over a quarter of a million dollars to fight breast cancer. 

The GSB - Stony Brook Cancer Fund

One dollar from every ticket purchased will go to the Stony Brook Cancer Center specifically to fight children's cancers.

Long Island Cares: The Harry Chapin Foodbank

In addition to collecting non-perishable food items, LI Cares will again staff one of their beer tents and together we will donate all salaries and tips to their organization.

The Long Island Music Hall of Fame

The organization was created to preserve and promote the history of LI's rich musical history, as well as award scholarships, nurture LI's young talent, and finally build its museum home on LI. 

Maureen's Haven Homeless Outreach Program

GSB is proud to support this organization that provides shelter and compassionate services to the homeless on Long Island.

Suffolk Action For Empowering Resiliency (SAFER)

SAFER provides resources on community mental health agencies, and educational materials for parents and families.

PAWS United

PAWS United finds homes for homeless animals.

Wed, 07/18/2018 - 1:10 pm

Robert Randolph & the Family Band have announced their summer tour dates, including over a dozen festival appearances. The multi Grammy-nominated collective will make their way across the United States, headlining shows in cities like San Diego, CA and Fort Collins, CO, and playing at festivals such as Levitate Music Festival, The White Mountain Boogie N' Blues Festival and Vail Hot Summer Nights. See below for a full list of dates.

Often called the "Jimi Hendrix of the pedal steel guitar," and named one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone's David Fricke, Randolph has, since the turn of the century, revolutionized

the role of his chosen instrument. One listen to Got Soul - the fifth studio release from the band - reaffirms that they have truly evolved into one of the most exciting, innovative outfits in contemporary music.

There's certainly no shortage of originality on Got Soul. Produced by multiple Grammy nominee Matt Pierson, the 12-song set runs the gamut from the aforementioned gospel-informed numbers to deep, funky grooves to incendiary rock-and-soul jams. The hauntingly exquisite "Heaven's Calling" features Randolph on solo steel, while guest vocalists Anthony Hamilton and Darius Rucker lend their golden pipes to "She Got Soul" and "Love Do What It Do," respectively. "I Thank You," the '60s Sam & Dave R&B smash, is completely reimagined in the hands of the Family Band and former Snarky Puppy band member, Cory Henry.

Following its release, Got Soul was nominated for the Grammy’s Best Contemporary Blues Album, making it Randolph’s fifth nod. The songwriter previously earned nominations for Best R&B Performance By A Duo/Vocal Group ("Higher Ground") and Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance ("You Are So Beautiful") in 2009 and 2006 respectively, and two 2003 nominations for Best Rock Instrumental Performance ("Squeeze") and Best Rock Gospel Album (Unclassified).

For more information, please visit: Facebook: www.facebook.com/rrtfb Twitter: www.twitter.com/rrtfb Instagram: www.instagram.com/rrtfb YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/rrtfb

Upcoming Tour Dates:

7/13/18 - Sandusky, OH - Jackson Street Pier

7/14/18 - New York - Pleasantville Music Festival

7/21/18 - Squaw Valley, CA - Wanderlust Jam session

7/28/18 - Jay, VT - Jeezum Crow Festival/ Jay Peak Resort

8/04/18 - Albuquerque, NM - Downtown Summerfest

8/10/18 - Greenville, SC - Greenville Zoo

8/11/18 - Jackson, MS - Bright Lights Belhaven Nights Festival

8/17/18 - St. Joseph, MO - Trails West! Festival

8/18/18 - North Thornton, NH - The White Mountain Boogie N' Blues Festival

8/19/18 - San Diego, CA - Embarcadero Marina Park South

8/21/18 - Vail, CO - Vail Hot Summer Nights

8/23/18 - Crested Butte, CO - Center for the Arts

8/24/18 - Fort Collins, CO - Washington's

8/25/18 - Trinidad, CO - Trinidaddio Blues Fest

8/31/18 - St. Louis - Atomic Cowboy

9/01/18 - Fishers, IN - Kroger Symphony on the Prairie

9/02/18 - Fishers, IN - Kroger Symphony on the Prairie

9/07/18 - New York, NY – Apollo (with Phil Lesh)

9/08/18 - Jasper, AL - Foothills Festival

Mon, 07/30/2018 - 9:29 am

Organ Virtuoso Cory Henry has announced his fall tour in support of his recent EP, Art Of Love, available now. A full list of tour dates with his band The Funk Apostles can be found below.

 Recorded in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Art Of Love was tracked live to tape in an effort both to capture the inimitable energy of his band The Funk Apostles' live shows and to channel the warm analog vibes of the 1970s. While Henry may be renowned for his gifts as an improviser, the album serves as a showcase for his skills as a songwriter and producer, rich with intricate arrangements and memorable hooks. That's not to say it's without spontaneity, though - the band worked with minimal rehearsal and several tracks are actually first-take recordings.

"I want to make music that really means something," Henry explains. "I think of the 60s and 70s as this golden era of music, and if you look at some of the top artists then like Curtis Mayfield and Stevie Wonder, they were singing about what was happening around them in this creative way that made people want to act. They used music as a tool to reach the world and bring about change to help make it a better place. I want to do that, too."

The Funk Apostles are Cory Henry (Hammond B3, synthesizer, vocals), Nicholas Semrad (synthesizer), Adam Agati (guitar), Taron Locket (drums), Sharay Reed (bass), Denise Stoudmire (vocals), and Tiffany Stevenson (vocals). No strangers to the road, Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles have toured throughout the U.S. and internationally, hitting festivals such as Montreux Jazz Festival, Okeechobee, Electric Forest, North Sea Jazz, Love Supreme Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, and more.

A Brooklyn native, Henry may be best known for his role in jazz-pop orchestra Snarky Puppy, and has won a pair of Grammy Awards for his work with the band since 2012. Henry has also proven himself to be a remarkable singer and songwriter through his work with The Funk Apostles.

Art Of Love is the first full band release, and is now available for download / purchase. For more information, please visit: https://www.coryhenrymusic.com/

Art Of Love Tracklisting:

01. Trade It All

02. In the Water

03. Our Affairs

04. Just a Word

05. Takes All Time

06. Send Me a Sign

Upcoming Tour Dates

*Cory Henry solo set

August 3 - Newport, RI @ Newport Jazz

August 4 - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater

August 5 - Telluride, CO @ Telluride Jazz Festival

August 26 - 29 - Big Fork, MT @ Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation*

September 1 - North Adams, MA @ MASS MoCA

September 8 - Arlington, VA @ Rosslyn Jazz Festival

September 9 - Charlottesville, VA @ The Southern

September 11 - Columbus, OH @ Skullys Music Diner

September 12 - Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Ballroom

September 13 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Rex Theater

September 15 - Indianapolis, IN @ Indy Jazz Festival

September 17 - Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall

September 19 - Seattle, WA @ Nectar Lounge

September 21 - Portland, OR @ Star Theater

September 22 - San Francisco, CA @ SF Jazz

September 29 - Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Comes Alive*

October 1 - New York, NY @ Blue Note*

October 8 - New York, NY @ Blue Note*

October 15 - New York, NY @ Blue Note*

October 22 - New York, NY @ Blue Note*

October 29 - New York, NY @ Blue Notes*

Wed, 08/01/2018 - 6:43 pm

The Nightowls have released a new single, “Everybody’s Dancing to the Music”, featuring Ivan Neville. Listen HERE. “Our producer Chris Bell is good friends with Ivan, and when we heard that he was going to be in Austin for a gig we jumped at the chance to work with him,” frontman Ryan Harkrider explains. “All of us had gigs earlier that day, so everyone was showing up to the studio a bit sweaty and ragged, but as soon as we started playing through the track, magic happened.” This new single comes just three months after the release of the band’s latest album We Are The Nightowls, which was described as a record “bursting with funk, soul and poppy goodness” (Glide Magazine). In support, the band is touring all summer long, hitting cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle and more. For more information, please visit: http://wearethenightowls.com.

The Nightowls first took Texas by storm in 2014 with the release their debut album, Good As Gold, which was hailed "suave, energetic, blue-eyed soul" by The Austin Chronicle and named one of the Top 10 albums of the year at the annual Austin Chronicle Music Awards. The Austin-based ten-piece followed up this debut with Fame Sessions, recorded at iconic Muscle Shoals studio, in 2015, and the Royal Sessions, recorded at the infamous Royal Studios in Memphis, TN, in 2016.

In February 2017, The Nightowls began recording their latest effort, We Are The Nightowls, at Fischer Studios in Hill Country Texas with Grammy-nominated producer Chris Bell, whose credits include The Eagles, U2, Erykah Badu and Peter Gabriel, among others. After 3-4 different recording sessions, the band ended up with 20+ songs that they would later listen back to and either discard, rewrite or reshape. By fall of 2017, the story of We Are The Nightowls began to solidify with the help of tracks like “Get Funked Up”, “#selfiequeen” and “Lift Me Up”. With a deadline set from Nine Mile Records in late February 2018, the band pushed on, and wrote and recorded what would become the last half of the album (“Don’t it Feel Weird”, “Laybackwittit”, “Can’t Wait to Knock It”) in about 2 months. We Are The Nightowls was later released on April 27th, 2018.

With these releases, the band garnered national attention from The Atlantic, Southern Living, Relix, Performer Magazine, Pollstar, Paste Magazine, Soul Tracks, Glide Magazine, PopMatters and more, and brought their "raucous" live show (Austin Monthly) across the US, hitting every corner of North America and playing dozens of festivals including Austin City Limits Festival, KGSR Unplugged at the Grove, Ouray Mountain Air Music Series, The Levitt Pavilion, Blues on the Green and the Double Decker Festival

Tour Dates

8/03 –  Austin, TX – Scoot Inn

8/08 – Los Angeles, CA – The Resident

8/09 – Beullton, CA – Standing Sun Winery

8/10 – Cloverdale, CA – Friday Night Lights

8/11 –  San Francisco,  CA – Milkbar

8/14 – Portland, OR – Secret Society

8/14 – Seattle, WA – Sunset Tavern

8/21 – Greeley, CO – Moxi Theater

8/22 – Denver, CO – Syntax

8/24 – Paola, KS – Paola Roots Festival

Thu, 08/16/2018 - 1:16 pm

Robert Randolph & the Family Band have announced their summer tour dates, including over a dozen festival appearances. The multi Grammy-nominated collective will make their way across the United States, headlining shows in cities like San Diego, CA and Fort Collins, CO, and playing at festivals such as Levitate Music Festival, The White Mountain Boogie N' Blues Festival and Vail Hot Summer Nights. See below for a full list of dates. For more information, please visit: http://www.robertrandolph.net.

Often called the "Jimi Hendrix of the pedal steel guitar," and named one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone's David Fricke, Randolph has, since the turn of the century, revolutionized the role of his chosen instrument. One listen to Got Soul - the fifth studio release from the band - reaffirms that they have truly evolved into one of the most exciting, innovative outfits in contemporary music.

There's certainly no shortage of originality on Got Soul. Produced by multiple Grammy nominee Matt Pierson, the 12-song set runs the gamut from the aforementioned gospel-informed numbers to deep, funky grooves to incendiary rock-and-soul jams. The hauntingly exquisite "Heaven's Calling" features Randolph on solo steel, while guest vocalists Anthony Hamilton and Darius Rucker lend their golden pipes to "She Got Soul" and "Love Do What It Do," respectively. "I Thank You," the '60s Sam & Dave R&B smash, is completely reimagined in the hands of the Family Band and former Snarky Puppy band member, Cory Henry.

Following its release, Got Soul was nominated for the Grammy’s Best Contemporary Blues Album, making it Randolph’s fifth nod. The songwriter previously earned nominations for Best R&B Performance By A Duo/Vocal Group ("Higher Ground") and Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance ("You Are So Beautiful") in 2009 and 2006 respectively, and two 2003 nominations for Best Rock Instrumental Performance ("Squeeze") and Best Rock Gospel Album (Unclassified).

For more information, please visit: Facebook: www.facebook.com/rrtfb Twitter: www.twitter.com/rrtfb Instagram: www.instagram.com/rrtfb YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/rrtfb

Upcoming Tour Dates:

8/17/18 - St. Joseph, MO - Trails West! Festival

8/18/18 - North Thornton, NH - The White Mountain Boogie N' Blues Festival

8/19/18 - San Diego, CA - Embarcadero Marina Park South

8/21/18 - Vail, CO - Vail Hot Summer Nights

8/23/18 - Crested Butte, CO - Center for the Arts

8/24/18 - Fort Collins, CO - Washington's 8/25/18 - Trinidad, CO - Trinidaddio Blues Fest

8/31/18 - St. Louis - Atomic Cowboy

9/01/18 - Fishers, IN - Kroger Symphony on the Prairie

9/02/18 - Fishers, IN - Kroger Symphony on the Prairie

9/07/18 - New York, NY – Apollo (with Phil Lesh)

9/08/18 - Jasper, AL - Foothills Festival

Fri, 11/16/2018 - 1:38 pm

Sony Music announces the release of CREED II (ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK) with music from three-time Grammy Award nominee Ludwig Göransson (Black Panther, Fruitvale Station, Atlanta). Göransson makes his return to the Creed franchise for film's soundtrack, which includes a star-studded lineup of features from A$AP Rocky, Vince Staples and Jacob Banks.

Composer Ludwig Göransson comments: "In Creed II, Creed is now at the peak of his career. He is facing big responsibilities and decisions that will affect not only him but also his family. When I wrote the score for Creed II, I continued on my journey from the first Creed. The themes that were more youthful three years ago now had to mature into a more serious musical language.  It was also a huge honor to write a theme for one of the most popular antagonists in film history, the Drago family."

 Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed. Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family's past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what's worth fighting for, and discover that nothing's more important than family. Creed II is about going back to basics to rediscover what made you a champion in the first place, and remembering that, no matter where you go, you can't escape your history.

Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures (MGM) and Warner Bros. Pictures' Creed II is directed by Steven Caple Jr. and stars Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone reprising their roles of Adonis Creed and Rocky Balboa respectively. Also reprising their roles from the first film are Tessa Thompson as Bianca, Phylicia Rashad as Mary Anne, Wood Harris as Tony "Little Duke" Burton, and Andre Ward as Danny "Stuntman" Wheeler. The new cast is rounded out with Florian "Big Nasty" Munteanu as Viktor Drago, Dolph Lundgren returning to the role of Ivan Drago, and Russell Hornsby as Buddy Marcelle.

Caple Jr. directs from an original screenplay co-written by Stallone and Juel Taylor, story by Sascha Penn and Cheo Hodari Coker, based on characters created by Sylvester Stallone. The film is produced by Irwin Winkler, Charles Winkler, William Chartoff, David Winkler, Kevin King-Templeton and Stallone. Ryan Coogler, Jordan and Guy Riedel are executive producers. Creed II will be distributed theatrically in the U.S. by MGM on November 21, 2018, and Warner Bros. Pictures will distribute the film internationally.

ABOUT LUDWIG GÖRANSSON

Ludwig Göransson is a Los Angeles-based Swedish composer, producer and musician.  After earning his breakthrough assignment in 2009 on what would become the long-running sitcom Community, he concurrently worked on New Girl and Happy Endings, among other TV series.  During his time on Community, he also found work on feature films including the comedy We're the Millers and the biopic Fruitvale Station, both released in 2013.  Demonstrating his hands-on interest in genres beyond his screen work, Göransson collaborated with Community cast member Donald Glover on Glover's rap releases under the Childish Gambino pseudonym, including 2016's critically-acclaimed album Awaken, My Love!, which earned the rapper a Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance for the album's hit single "Redbone."  Göransson also started his own solo project under the name Ludovin, releasing the indie pop EP How to Find a Party in 2013 while finding time to collaborate with other recording artists, including HAIM, Chance the Rapper, Pell and more. Community ended its run in 2015, a year that saw Göransson's scoring work in the critically acclaimed Rocky franchise entry Creed. His third collaboration with director Ryan Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan was for the score to the blockbuster superhero flick Black Panther, which arrived in 2018 and charted #1 on the Billboard World Music chart.

CREED II (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

RELEASE DATE: November 16, 2018

TRACKLIST:

1. Drago

2. Wheeler Fight

3. Yo? Is That a Yes?

4. The Public Challenge

5. Time Tick performed by Tessa Thompson

6. You Think I'm Going to Lose

7. Balanced Breakfast

8. Ice Cold performed by Vince Staples & Ludwig Göransson

9. Under Water

10. Adonis and Amara

11. You Might Find Me performed by Jacob Banks & Ludwig Göransson

12. Runnin performed by Ludwig Göransson feat. A$AP Rocky

13. Drago's Walk Out

14. I Will Go To War performed by Tessa Thompson

15. Fight in Moscow

16. It's Your Time

17. Family Visit

Wed, 11/28/2018 - 1:17 pm

This #GivingTuesday, To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) is launching the #into19 campaign. The goal of the campaign is to raise $125,000 by December 31st. The campaign is anchored by the idea that each gift and donation will make it possible for TWLOHA to reach new communities, share more stories, and connect thousands of people to the help they need and deserve.

Additionally, on Giving Tuesday, for every fundraising campaign set up through Facebook, the social media site along with PayPal will be matching up to $7mil in donations made to US-based nonprofits.

This year TWLOHA sponsored 3,100 counseling sessions and launched a new FIND HELP tool. In just the past two months, the tool saw over 18,000 searches. For every four searches conducted, someone took the next step to reach out to a resource by calling a hotline or scheduling an appointment. Because of the support of people around the world, TWLOHA is making the distance between needing help and receiving help shorter than ever.

In 2018, TWLOHA shared 100+ stories on their blog. These honest and vulnerable posts reached millions on their website and on social media each month.  They were able to have a presence at 195 events, connecting with people at music festivals, the Vans Warped Tour, yoga events, colleges, and high schools, all to remind people that it’s okay to talk about mental health – that it’s okay to ask for help.

"Our dream for 2019 is to reach more people with the message that they are not alone --that help is real,” shares Lindsay Kolsch. “We know it can save a life. The funds raised during this campaign will make it possible for us to do more next year."

To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. It exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since its start in 2006, TWLOHA has donated over $2.3 million directly into treatment and recovery and answered over 200,000 messages from over 100 countries.

The organization recently wrapped their 7th annual campaign to honor World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) and National Suicide Prevention Week (NSPW). With the help of supporters from around the world, TWLOHA was able to raise more than $200k for treatment and recovery, surpassing their initial goal of $100k, as well as their follow up goals of $150k and $175k. Over 3600 people donated to this year’s “Tomorrow Needs You” campaign, in addition to the sale of 4655 World Suicide Prevention Day packs. The money raised will help sponsor nearly 4000 counseling sessions and connect 55,000 people to local mental health resources.

As part of the campaign, TWLOHA shared an inspiring video featuring actors Chris Sullivan (from This Is Us) and Jaina Lee Ortiz (from Station 19), country music star Hunter Hayes, who raised $25,000, writer/artist Morgan Harper Nichols, and singer/songwriter Matt Wertz, along with a number of clips submitted by TWLOHA supporters from around the world. To watch the video, please visit: youtu.be/aEzUMnBHHK0.

Additional posts were made throughout the week by Cleveland Cavaliers player Kyle Korver, actor Jared Padalecki, American DJ Bassnectar, US Women’s National Soccer Team players Christen Press and Ashlyn Harris, actress Susie Abromeit, and Norwegian DJ/producer KYGO, who personally donated $30,000 to the campaign, amongst others. Joining them were sites like Billboard, EDM Tunes, Country Music Tattle Tale, Your EDM, Hollywood.com, and more sharing the message of hope and help.

For more information on To Write Love on Her Arms, please visit: www.twloha.com

Fri, 01/04/2019 - 9:59 am

Florida-based nonprofit To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) is bringing hope into the new year with the conclusion of their month-long giving campaign. The organization surpassed their goal of $125k by raising nearly $134k. The campaign is anchored by the idea that each gift and donation will make it possible for TWLOHA to reach new communities, share more stories, and connect thousands of people to the help they need and deserve.

In 2018, TWLOHA sponsored 3,100 counseling sessions and launched a new FIND HELP tool. In its first two months, the tool saw over 18,000 searches. For every four searches conducted, someone took the next step toward treatment and recovery by calling a helpline or scheduling an appointment with a counselor. Because of the support from people around the world, TWLOHA is making the distance between needing help and receiving help shorter than ever.

Last year TWLOHA also shared 100+ stories on their blog. These honest and vulnerable posts reached millions on their website and on social media each month.  They were able to have a presence at 195 events, connecting with people at music festivals, the Vans Warped Tour, yoga events, colleges, and high schools, all to remind people that it’s okay to talk about mental health – that it’s okay to ask for help.

"Our dream for 2019 is to reach more people with the message that they are not alone – that help is real,” shares Lindsay Kolsch. “We know it can save a life. The funds raised during this campaign will make it possible for us to do more next year."

To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. It exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since its start in 2006, TWLOHA has donated over $2.3 million directly into treatment and recovery and answered over 200,000 messages from over 100 countries.

This past September TWLOHA wrapped their 7th annual campaign to honor World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) and National Suicide Prevention Week (NSPW). With the help of supporters from around the world, the organization was able to raise over $200k for treatment and recovery, more than doubling their initial goal of $100k. Over 3600 people donated to the “Tomorrow Needs You” campaign, in addition to the sale of 4655 World Suicide Prevention Day packs. The money raised will help sponsor nearly 4000 counseling sessions and connect 55,000 people to local mental health resources.

As part of the campaign, TWLOHA shared an inspiring video featuring actors Chris Sullivan (from This Is Us) and Jaina Lee Ortiz (from Station 19), country music star Hunter Hayes, who raised $25,000, writer/artist Morgan Harper Nichols, and singer/songwriter Matt Wertz, along with a number of clips submitted by TWLOHA supporters from around the world. To watch the video, please visit: youtu.be/aEzUMnBHHK0.

Additional posts were made throughout the week by Cleveland Cavaliers player Kyle Korver, actor Jared Padalecki, American DJ Bassnectar, US Women’s National Soccer Team players Christen Press and Ashlyn Harris, actress Susie Abromeit, and Norwegian DJ/producer KYGO, who personally donated $30,000 to the campaign, amongst others. Joining them were sites like Billboard, EDM Tunes, Country Music Tattle Tale, Your EDM, Hollywood.com, and more sharing the message of hope and help.

For more information on To Write Love on Her Arms, please visit: www.twloha.com

Wed, 04/24/2019 - 6:10 pm

City Parks Foundation is thrilled to announce the 2019 season of Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage, New York City's largest free outdoor performing arts festival, bringing nearly 100 free and benefit shows to Central Park and 17 neighborhood parks throughout the five boroughs. This year's festival will showcase 200 renowned artists and rising stars from around the world to local neighborhood parks, presenting distinctly New York genres -- salsa, jazz, and hip-hop -- alongside indie, reggae, Afrobeat, soul, contemporary dance, and much more. View the official SummerStage 2019 season announce video here.

Capital One is the festival's new multi-year title sponsor (Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage) and its official bank and credit card. A presenting sponsor since 2015, Capital One has helped SummerStage bring more than 500 artists to 800,000 audience members in parks all around New York City.

"Capital One is proud to elevate our long-standing support for SummerStage as the title sponsor," said Michael Slocum, President, Commercial Banking and Northeast Regional President, Capital One. "Free live music and dance performances bring neighborhoods to life. We are committed to helping communities thrive by supporting SummerStage performances and keeping them free and open for all New Yorkers to enjoy."

SummerStage has a long history of presenting artists on the verge of breaking big. The launch of the 2019 season will build on that legacy with the reopening of SummerStage in Central Park on Saturday, June 1 as a night of discovery. Audiences will be introduced to both a refurbished venue and to the music industry's next big stars. The night will feature New York City native, the soulful R&B singer songwriter

Emily King, along with developing artists and deep soul revival band Durand Jones & the Indications, and more throughout the evening.

"This is a very big year for SummerStage. Not only are we reopening our storied Central Park venue, modernizing it for its next 30 years, but we are also partnering with our new title sponsor and looking to the future by launching the season with young musicians representing the next generation," said Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation.  "Of course, throughout the summer, we will present a line-up that is reflective of our city's population, focusing not only on gender equality, but also on the huge diversity of cultures and backgrounds that make New York so special and exciting."

As a women-run festival with a mission of diversity and inclusion, SummerStage is helping to transform the future of the music industry by participating in the PRS Foundation's international Keychange pledge and presenting a lineup this season that features a 50:50 gender balance. SummerStage is one of the few local festivals that has achieved this goal.  Notable performances by women this summer will include two break-out female-fronted Canadian pop bands Alvvays and The Courtneys; Spanish soul-pop singer and Latin Grammy winner Buika, who will be joined by A-WA, a Yemenite-Israeli sister trio; an all-female lineup of Taiwanese talents including One Fang; Wendy Whelan, former principal ballerina and current Associate Artistic DIrector with the New York City Ballet, presenting her new work-in-progress, Carnival of the Animals; La India, New York native and one of salsa's biggest voices; rapper and activist Ana Tijoux; legendary drummer and icon Sheila E.; multi-Grammy winner and jazz songstress Corinne Bailey Rae; and Grammy winning folkloric-style Mexican singer Lila Downs.

SummerStage will continue its tradition of identifying the best new artists and bringing together strong voices from around the world to perform in New York City, some for the very first time. Highlights will include Calypso King of the World, Mighty Sparrow; Puerto Rican salsero Ray De La Paz, who will be joined by boricua salsero, Edgar Joel; legendary Brazilian artist Alceu Valença; Afrobeat quartet Magic System, who will be joined by Burkinabe rapper Smarty and Ivory Coast's DJ Birane; and a night showcasing women of the Latin diaspora headlined by Mexican pop singer songwriter Ximena Sariñana.

SummerStage will recognize a number of pivotal anniversaries citywide through specially-curated shows including the 100th birthday of the Harlem Renaissance to be celebrated during the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival; the 100th birthday of iconic choreographer Merce Cunningham featuring the Stephen Petronio Company and former Cunningham dancer Melissa Toogood; the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and WorldPride celebrations with two shows -- New Orleans bounce queen Big Freedia and all-male ballet troupe Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo; the commemoration of the Harlem Cultural Festival known as Black Woodstock with bandleader Igmar Thomas, MC Talib Kweli and trumpeter Keyon Harrold in Marcus Garvey Park where the original festival was staged; and the 40th anniversary of Queens-based, women-run reggae label VP Records with Elephant Man, Junior Reid, Estelle, and Raging Fyah.

As always, New York's own musicians and performers will be well represented at SummerStage. Opening night in Brooklyn's Herbert Von King Park will feature Queens rapper Pharoahe Monch and Friends celebrating the 20th anniversary of their album, "Internal Affairs." Brooklyn mega-hit rapper Young M.A will perform in her home borough in Betsy Head Park; Staten Island hip-hop heroes Force M.D.s play a hometown show in Corporal Thompson Park; one of hip-hop's great storyteller's, Bronx-born Slick Rick, joins forces with DJ Chuck Chillout, in Soundview Park; rising psych jazz rockers Crumb will be joined by fellow Brooklynites Phony Ppl in Manhattan's East River Park; and La Sonora Ponceña, one of New York's longest running salsa bands, will perform in Coney Island's Ford Amphitheatre.

The Charlie Parker Jazz Festival, New York City's annual salute to the eponymous late saxophonist, will return for five days of live jazz in the neighborhoods near where Parker worked and lived, including uptown in Harlem's historic Marcus Garvey Park and downtown in Tompkins Square Park. Running August 20 through 25, the festival will feature partner events around the city, culminating with SummerStage performances from Michael Mwenso and the Shakes featuring Brianna Thomas, Vuyo Sotashe and special guest Fred Wesley; Dee Dee Bridgewater; Carl Allen's Art Blakey Tribute; Ravi Coltrane; George Coleman Trio and many others.

"This season's lineup is thoughtfully curated to celebrate community across all five boroughs by bringing distinctly New York artists to neighborhoods where they have personal history.  The Festival also acts as a platform for global talent to perform for New Yorkers, and a place to see some of the most diverse and exciting talent around," said Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of City Parks Foundation.

The 2019 SummerStage festival will also feature benefit shows in Central Park to help support City Parks Foundation's free performances. Confirmed shows to date include George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic's Farewell Tour with Galactic, Fishbone, Dumpstaphunk; Thai-funk instrumental trio Khruangbin; lo-fi experimental rocker Kurt Vile and the Violators with Dinosaur Jr.; Australian singer-songwriter Tash Sultana; chart-topping alt-rock band Guster; Australian psych-rockers King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard; Welsh indie-pop artist MARINA; British indie rock band Bloc Party; and legendary new wave icons The B-52s.  More shows will be announced throughout the season. All benefit concerts are produced by The Bowery Presents.

SummerStage's flagship venue in Central Park will reopen after undergoing a major, $5.5 million transformation that includes a new stage and sound system, enhanced lighting, new and raised seating areas, and improved dressing rooms and production spaces. In collaboration with West Elm, the Brooklyn-based global design company known for its original, modern designs, select areas of the venue will be expertly outfitted with furniture and décor from the brand's new summer assortment. Concert-goers and performers will enjoy the highest standard of sustainably sourced products all summer long.

The complete SummerStage schedule follows below. For the most up-to-date scheduling and lineup for all SummerStage programming, follow SummerStage via the social media handles below and visit www.SummerStage.org for all festival information.

Capital One is the Title Sponsor of the 2019 SummerStage festival. iStar, Subaru, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Bell's Brewery, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Archer Roose Wines, Disney, AARP, Snapple, and West Elm are all official SummerStage sponsors.

Generous private support is provided by the Howard Gilman Foundation, Mertz Gilmore Foundation, The Shubert Organization, the J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation, and The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust. SummerStage is also supported, in part, by public funds from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the NYC Council; the National Endowment for the Arts; the NYS Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the NYS Legislature; and the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, including Council Members Alicka Ampry-Samuel, Diana Ayala, Bill Perkins, Keith Powers, Donovan Richards, Carlina Rivera, Debi Rose, Helen Rosenthal, and Rafael Salamanca. The Only in Queens SummerStage Concert is presented by Borough President Melinda Katz with NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer and NYC Parks.

Additional support is generously provided by our dedicated festival audience and SummerStage Members.

The refurbishment of SummerStage in Central Park is supported by the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, The Thompson Family Foundation, the Jaharis Family Foundation, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, Peter Shapiro & Dayglo Presents, the Troubh family, the Goodman Family Foundation, Alexander Durst, and many generous donors who have purchased seat plaques.

Premier Radio Sponsor: iHeart Radio featuring Lite FM, Power 105.1, 103.5 KTU, Q104.3, and Z100.

In all of its programming and activities, City Parks Foundation partners with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to improve neighborhood parks and the communities they serve.

SummerStage Social Media

Twitter: @SummerStage

Facebook: SummerStage NYC

Instagram: @SummerStage

Snapchat: summerstagenyc

Official Hashtag: #SummerStage

Thu, 05/16/2019 - 2:20 pm

In honor of the 35th anniversary of Ghostbusters' 1984 theatrical debut, Sony Music announces a special reissue of "GHOSTBUSTERS (ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE)" with music by legendary film composer ELMER BERNSTEIN (The Magnificent Seven, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Age of Innocence). Available now to preorder, the anniversary edition arrives in digital formats for the very first time (in both standard and hi resolutions) and on CD Friday, June 7 and on vinyl Friday, July 19. The collection features music from the iconic blockbuster, newly mixed and remastered from the score's original multi-tracks, as well as new artwork, commentary from Elmer Bernstein's son, Peter, and four previously unreleased tracks.

Of the 35th anniversary edition, Peter Bernstein, son of the late Elmer Bernstein, says, "As one of the original orchestrators on Ghostbusters, it has been very satisfying and also very moving to work on this soundtrack release 35 years down the road. It is a great movie with great music and we had a whole lot of fun creating it. I am very pleased to see it released in its original form."

With a star-studded cast, Ghostbusters follows four men on a mission to save the world. Fired from university research jobs, Doctors Venkman, Stantz and Spengler set up shop as "Ghostbusters," hiring Zeddemore and, together, ridding Manhattan of bizarre apparitions. But even the spirit exterminators are severely tested when beautiful Dana Barrett and her nerdy neighbor Louis Tully become possessed by demons living in their building. Soon every spook in the city is loose and our heroes face their supreme challenge at a rooftop demonic shrine. If you want your spirits raised, who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!

GHOSTBUSTERS (ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE)

TRACKLISTING -

1.         Ghostbusters Theme  

2.         Library  

3.         Venkman  

4.         Hello  

5.         The Best One in Your Row  

6.         Get Her!  

7.         Plan  

8.         Dana's Theme  

9.         Fridge and Sign  

10.       Attack  

11.       Client  

12.       Dana's Apartment  

13.       Same Problem  

14.       We Got One  

15.       Zuul Part 1  

16.       Meeting 1  

17.       I Respect You  

18.       Who Brought the Dog  

19.       Zuul Part 2  

20.       Steel Drum  

21.       Cross Rip  

22.       News  

23.       Judgment Day  

24.       Mistake  

25.       Halls  

26.       Ballroom  

27.       Trap  

28.       Meeting 2  

29.       Earthquake  

30.       Stairwell  

31.       Gozer  

32.       Let's Go  

33.       We're Going to Save the World  

34.       Mr. Stay Puft  

35.       Final Battle  

36.       Finish  

37.       Zuul (Album Version)  

Fri, 05/24/2019 - 12:27 pm

Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage opening night is set to take place on Saturday, June 1st at the newly upgraded flagship venue in Central Park. The night will feature New York City native, the soulful R&B singer songwriter Emily King, along with developing artists and deep soul revival band Durand Jones & the Indications, Brooklyn-based singer songwriter Madison McFerrin, and DJ Reborn. The first guests of the night will receive a special limited-edition commemorative giveaways.

Long time Lower East Side resident Emily King, a child of musicians, dropped out of school at 16 and cut her teeth at local haunts CBGB and The Bitter End. In the fifteen years since she signed her first record deal with Clive Davis' J Records, her distinct brand of soulful R&B has been nominated for a Grammy and led to collaborations and performances with Nas, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Chaka Khan and Erykah Badu. Her most recent album Scenery was released earlier this year, and was dubbed a "sweeping coming-of-age tale" by NPR.

She's joined by Durand Jones and the Indications, a soul group with a throwback sound that channels the likes of Jackie Wilson and Curtis Mayfield. Earlier this year they released the critically-acclaimed American Love Call, and made a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Brooklyn singer-songwriter, Madison McFerrin, daughter of jazz legend Bobby McFerrin and sister to SummerStage alum Taylor McFerrin, will provide an opening set of what Questlove has dubbed "Soulappella." Her unique a cappella take on soul music led Pitchfork to delcare she's "making a cappella cool again. DJ Reborn will be spinning throughout the night in addition to a special performance by Spice Steppers, a step team from the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development's Step It Up NYC competition.

Leading up to opening night, we will be offering limited preview tours of the newly refurbished SummerStage in Central Park to press on Wednesday, May 29th. If you're interested in attending, please submit your information for consideration here: http://bit.ly/SummerStageCentralParkPreview.

CityParks SummerStage is New York City's largest, free outdoor performing arts festival, taking place in Central Park and in 17 neighborhood parks around the city, from June-October, presenting approximately 100 performances - the majority of which are free of charge - for 250,000+ audiences annually.

"This is a very big year for SummerStage. Not only are we reopening our storied Central Park venue, modernizing it for its next 30 years, but we are also partnering with our new title sponsor and looking to the future by launching the season with young musicians representing the next generation," said Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation.  "Of course, throughout the summer, we will present a line-up that is reflective of our city's population, focusing not only on gender equality, but also on the huge diversity of cultures and backgrounds that make New York so special and exciting."

As a women-run festival with a mission of diversity and inclusion, SummerStage is helping to transform the future of the music industry by participating in the PRS Foundation's international Keychange pledge and presenting a lineup this season that features a 50:50 gender balance. SummerStage is one of the few local festivals that has achieved this goal.

SummerStage's flagship venue in Central Park will reopen after undergoing a major, $5.5 million transformation that includes a new stage and sound system, enhanced lighting, new and raised seating areas, and improved dressing rooms and production spaces. In collaboration with

West Elm, the Brooklyn-based global design company known for its original, modern designs, select areas of the venue will be expertly outfitted with furniture and décor from the brand's new summer assortment. Concert-goers and performers will enjoy the highest standard of sustainably sourced products all summer long.

A full lineup for this season can be found below. For the most up-to-date scheduling and lineup for all SummerStage programming, follow SummerStage via the social media handles below and visit www.SummerStage.org for all festival information.

Capital One is the Title Sponsor of the 2019 SummerStage festival. iStar, Subaru, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Bell's Brewery, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Archer Roose Wines, AARP, Disney, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Snapple, Icelandic Provisions Skyr and West Elm are all official SummerStage sponsors.

Generous private support is provided by the Howard Gilman Foundation, Mertz Gilmore Foundation, The Shubert Organization, the J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation, and The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust. SummerStage is also supported, in part, by public funds from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the NYC Council; the National Endowment for the Arts; the NYS Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the NYS Legislature; and the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, including Council Members Alicka Ampry-Samuel, Diana Ayala, Bill Perkins, Keith Powers, Donovan Richards, Carlina Rivera, Debi Rose, Helen Rosenthal, and Rafael Salamanca. The Only in Queens SummerStage Concert is presented by Borough President Melinda Katz with NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer and NYC Parks.

Additional support is generously provided by our dedicated festival audience and SummerStage Members.

The refurbishment of SummerStage in Central Park is supported by the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, The Thompson Family Foundation, the Jaharis Family Foundation, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, Peter Shapiro & Dayglo Presents, the Troubh family, the Goodman Family Foundation, Alexander Durst, and many generous donors who have purchased seat plaques.

Premier Radio Sponsor: iHeart Radio featuring Lite FM, Power 105.1, 103.5 KTU, Q104.3, and Z100.

Media partners include: Zoom Media & Marketing, WNYC, WNET and All Arts, Telemundo, WBGO, WFUV, Relix, DoNYC, Time Out New York, Futuro Media Group and Big Screen Plaza.

In all of its programming and activities, City Parks Foundation partners with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to improve neighborhood parks and the communities they serve.

SummerStage Social Media

Twitter: @SummerStage

Facebook: SummerStage NYC

Instagram: @SummerStage

Snapchat: summerstagenyc 

Official Hashtag: #SummerStage

Mon, 06/03/2019 - 11:05 am

Nathan Quick is premiering his new single “Southern Miles” via Glide Magazine. Listen here: https://bit.ly/2XbEPxi. As a song of remembrance to a friend and bandmate of Quick’s, “Southern Miles” is an emotional, yet enthralling journey through the stages of grief. “There is a ghost left in the music,” Quick describes. “This song evokes the struggle, loss, acceptance, and memories of our experiences of the road, and in life." “Southern Miles” will appear on Quick’s upcoming album Howling At The Moon due out this fall. The single will be available for streaming/purchase on all online platforms this Friday, 5/31. For more information on Nathan Quick, please visit: http://nathanquickmusic.com/.

Nathan Quick is a multi-Houston Press Music Award-winning singer/songwriter who delivers a raspy growl atop lush rock rhythms and swaggering lead guitar. His sound draws from an eclectic pool of genres including classic rock and roll, southern rock, blues and country, as displayed throughout his vibrant discography.

Since releasing his debut EP The Mile in 2014, Quick has been busy establishing himself as a force within the Houston music scene. Free Press Houston lauded his 2016 album, The Sound, writing, “Nathan Quick has really dug deep to offer up some of those Southern blues tones that we so rarely get to hear anymore”, while the Houston Press commended his 2018 LP The Other Side for its “bluesy riffs and gut wrenching vocals”. Quick is also a regular in the live music scene of Houston, frequently playing venues like The Continental Club, Truck Yard and McGonigel's Mucky Duck.

Quick is now gearing up to release his new album Howling At The Moon this fall. A former offshore roughneck, Quick explores universal themes like love, loss and redemption on the record recorded in Los Angeles with producer Bruce Witkin (The White Buffalo/Joe Perry/LA Guns).

Upcoming Shows:

 

6/15 – Truck Yard – Houston, TX

 

6/16 – Discovery Green – Houston, TX

6/21 – Truck Yard – Houston, TX

6/30 – Truck Yard – Houston, TX

7/11 – Truck Yard – Houston, TX

7/12 – Loaded Barrels Saloon – Houston, TX

7/18 – Cottonwood Houston – Houston, TX

7/19 – Home Sweet Farm & Market – Brenham, TX

7/20 – Truck Yard – Houston, TX

Fri, 08/30/2019 - 7:40 pm

Selfish Things are gearing up for the release of their debut full-length and two incredible North American tours this fall. But today, the Toronto 4-piece rock band has dropped a visceral music video for brand new single "Blood" featuring Andy Leo of Crown The Empire.

On the track, frontman Alex Biro shares "My grandma was dying. She had a white blood cell count of 40 000 which is (if my memory serves me correctly) 10 times what it should be for a normal person. WZRD BLD and one of our friends KJ had the chorus pretty much set in stone, and the band and I took it from there. Definitely one of my favourite songs on the album, although birthed from a difficult moment in my life."

The accompanying music video, directed by Miguel Barbosa, shows a visual representation of what Biro felt during that time. "Miguel and I work pretty seamlessly together. He gives me space to creative direct all of our videos and really brings my ideas to life alongside Ryan Glover, our cinematographer. Conceptually, I wanted to do something that represented both the madness and desperation of death and illness. I hope that was accomplished." Fans can stream the new music video today at https://smarturl.it/sflogos.

Due out September 20th via Pure Noise Records, Selfish Things' full-length debut Logos is a collection of 11 tracks that dive right into the psyche of Biro. "I want people to know that there is strength in your faults. It's just as important to suffer as it is to find moments of joy and happiness. Darkness and light need one another" shares Biro on the upcoming album.

"Blood" joins previously released singles "Hole", "Pride", "Flood" and "Drained (ft. William Ryan Key)" from the forthcoming album, which was produced entirely by WZRD BLD. Fans can pre-order Logos at https://smarturl.it/sflogos.

 Logos Track Listing

1. Flood

2. Blood (ft. Andy Leo of Crown The Empire)

3. Rowen

4. Pride

5. Synaptic

6. Torn (ft. Spencer Chamberlain of Underoath)

7. Hole

8. Crutch

9. Drained (ft. William Ryan Key)

10. Mind

11. Youth

Selfish Things will be supporting Don Broco on their upcoming North American tour. Alongside Trash Boat and Sleep On It, the Canadian four-piece will be delivering their impassioned live performance to fans for a month long run kicking off September 12th in Boston, MA. Tickets are on-sale now with select dates already sold out. Biro will also join Cavetown for 3 special solo sets during sold-out dates on their US Tour.

Adding to their non-stop fall, Selfish Things will be supporting Boston Manor on their first full-length headlining North American Tour. Alongside Microwave and Heart Attack Man, this winter tour will kick off in Boston on November 20, traveling to cities across the United States and Canada before wrapping up back on the East Coast in Hartford, CT on December 20. For tickets and updates on all upcoming tour dates, please visit: http://www.selfishthingsband.com/

Upcoming Selfish Things Tour Dates:

Supporting Don Broco w/ Trash Boat and Sleep On It

September 12 - Brighton Music Hall - Boston, MA - SOLD OUT

September 13 - Gramercy Theatre - New York, NY - SOLD OUT

September 14 - The Foundry @ The Fillmore - Philadelphia, PA - SOLD OUT

September 15 - Milkboy Arthouse - College Park, MD

September 17 - Amos' Southend - Charlotte, NC

September 18 - Soundbar - Orlando, FL - SOLD OUT

September 20 - The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA

September 21 - The Basement East - Nashville, TN

September 23 - Barracuda - Austin, TX

September 24 - Club Dada - Dallas, TX

September 26 - The Nile Theater - Mesa, AZ

September 27 - The Irenic - San Diego, CA

September 28 - The Troubador - Los Angeles, CA - SOLD OUT

September 29 - Slim's - San Francisco, CA

October 1 - The Crocodile - Seattle, WA

October 2 - Biltmore Cabaret - Vancouver, BC

October 3 - The Paris Theatre - Portland, OR

October 5 - The Loading Dock - Salt Lake City, UT

October 6 - Marquis Theater - Denver, CO

October 8 - Bottom Lounge - Chicago, IL

October 9 - Mahall's - Cleveland, OH - SOLD OUT

October 11 - The Shelter - Detroit, MI - SOLD OUT

October 12 - Hard Luck - Toronto, ON - SOLD OUT

October 13 - Le Ministere - Montreal, QC

Thu, 09/05/2019 - 4:52 pm

Monotronic are premiering their new single “In Your Head” exclusively today via Rock Cellar Magazine. Listen HERE. “This song is about drama in relationships that can result from misunderstandings or miscommunication,” explains bandleader, Ramsey Elkholy. “Written mainly from the male perspective, it highlights the feelings of loss and emptiness that occur when situations have spiraled out of control and communication breaks down (‘never thought this thing you done would go so far’).

“In Your Head” is the latest single from Monotronic’s self-titled album, due out 9/27. The 7-track collection was recorded live at Bunker Studios in Brooklyn, mixed by Grammy Award-winning mix engineer, Dave Pensado, and mastered by Grammy Award-winning mastering engineer, Greg Calbi (Tame Impala, David Bowie, Talking Heads, The National), at Sterling Sound. “Our goal was to try to distill our more exploratory and improvisational live sound into something more accessible to mainstream listeners, who are typically streaming 3-4 minute tracks,” elaborates Elkholy. “With the help of Pensado and Calbi, the final product exceeded all our expectations.” For more information on Monotronic, please visit: www.monotronicband.com.

Monotronic is Ramsey Elkholy (guitar, lap steel), Adam Ahuja (keyboard, vocals), Alex Hayes (bass, vocals) and Devin Collins (drums, live electronics). Conceived in 2016, the band combines electronic music with a wide range of cultural influences stemming from Elkholy's travels throughout Southeast Asia. He describes Monotronic as "a concept, whereby each instrument can be heard as a continuation of the other and the music sounds as one distinct whole, emanating from a single source".

All top rate musicians, the various members of Monotronic have recorded and performed with artists such as Robert Randolph, The Spin Doctors, Joe Jackson, Meatloaf and Elliott Moss, to name a few. The band has also played in venues such as The Knitting Factory, Bowery Electric, Mercury Lounge, Arlene's Grocery, Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre, Rockwood Music Hall, Pianos and the Bitter End, as well as outdoor music festivals such as Disc Jam and Meeting of the Minds.

“In Your Head”, the latest single from Monotronic is available here:

Sat, 09/21/2019 - 4:24 pm

Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage is continuing its run of ticketed benefit shows in Central Park this month. For the most up-to-date scheduling and lineup for all SummerStage programming, visit www.SummerStage.org for all festival information.

On Tuesday, September 24th, the "world's best party band," The B-52's, will perform at SummerStage in Central Park. Best known by the MTV generation for the smash hit and video "Love Shack," the mostly queer quintet hasn't recorded new music since 2008's Funplex but nonetheless still knows which hits keep the party moving. They're joined by Liverpool's OMD (short for Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark), a seminal experimental post-punk band revered in the U.K. for their 1980 anti-war song "Enola Gay" and the classic 1981 LP Architecture & Morality. They found an audience in the U.S. with the hit single "If You Leave" from the soundtrack to John Hughes' Pretty In Pink. Berlin, an American New Wave band who gained mainstream-commercial success with singles including "Sex (I'm A...)", "No More Words", and "Take My Breath Away", will also perform. This show is produced by The Bowery Presents, and will take place from 6PM to 10PM. Doors open at 5PM. Tickets are available for $59.50. 

CityParks SummerStage is New York City's largest, free outdoor performing arts festival, taking place in Central Park and in 17 neighborhood parks around the city, from June-October, presenting approximately 100 performances - the majority of which are free of charge - for 250,000+ audiences annually.

A full lineup for this season can be found below. For the most up-to-date scheduling and lineup for all SummerStage programming, follow SummerStage via the social media handles below and visit www.SummerStage.org for all festival information.

Capital One is the Title Sponsor of the 2019 SummerStage festival. iStar, Subaru, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Bell's Brewery, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Archer Roose Wines, CLIF, Disney, Bloomberg Philanthropies, AARP, Snapple, Icelandic Provisions Skyr and West Elm are all official SummerStage sponsors.   

Generous private support is provided by the Howard Gilman Foundation, Mertz Gilmore Foundation, The Shubert Organization, the J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation, and The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust. SummerStage is also supported, in part, by public funds from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the NYC Council; the National Endowment for the Arts; the NYS Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the NYS Legislature; and the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, including Council Members Alicka Ampry-Samuel, Diana Ayala, Bill Perkins, Keith Powers, Donovan Richards, Carlina Rivera, Debi Rose, Helen Rosenthal, and Rafael Salamanca. The Only in Queens SummerStage Concert is presented by Borough President Melinda Katz with NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer and NYC Parks.

Additional support is generously provided by our dedicated festival audience and SummerStage Members.

The refurbishment of SummerStage in Central Park is supported by the NYC Council under the leadership of Speaker Corey Johnson, The Thompson Family Foundation, the Jaharis Family Foundation, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, Peter Shapiro & Dayglo Presents, the Troubh family, the Goodman Family Foundation, Alexander Durst, and many generous donors who have purchased seat plaques.

Premier Radio Sponsor: iHeart Radio featuring Lite FM, Power 105.1, 103.5 KTU, Q104.3, and Z100. 

Media partners include: Zoom Media & Marketing, WNYC, WNET and All Arts, Telemundo, WBGO, WFUV, Relix, DoNYC, Time Out New York, Futuro Media Group and Big Screen Plaza.

In all of its programming and activities, City Parks Foundation partners with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to improve neighborhood parks and the communities they serve.

SummerStage Social Media

Twitter: @SummerStage

Facebook: SummerStage NYC

Instagram: @SummerStage

Snapchat: summerstagenyc 

Official Hashtag: #SummerStage