12/5/08

Jethro Tull performs Mumbai benefit, Dec. 5, tonight

Please visit the site: http://www.abillionhands.com/abh_concert.html


Jethro Tull have rescheduled their previously-cancelled Mumbai concert for tonight, Dec. 5, 2008 at 7:30 PM, at the Shammukhanda Hall, in Mumbai, India. Jethro Tull will perform with the group's special guest, Anoushka Shankar. All artist fees are going to local charities in the wake of the recent terror attacks.

Ian Anderson says: "We have all been outraged at the awful atrocities of the last week and were forced to take the decision to suspend the Mumbai concert in the light of the Taj Hotel siege which, at the time of cancellation, was still ongoing. In the light of today's new India terror warnings and airport alerts, we are all understandably a little nervous about the show but hiding under the bed is not really an option."

Tonight's Billion Hands charity concert will feature Tull's Classic Rock and acoustic music as well as specially-written new material for the collaborative set with Anoushka Shankar.

11/5/08

Radio Programming Advisory

Contact: Anne Leighton
718-881-8183
Leightonmedia@aol.com

Programming advisory: "Only In America" -- for your consideration


JAY AND THE AMERICANS' MP3 of the group's updated recording of "Only In America" available for your show.

Written by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller, the song has the relevant line, "Only in America can a kid from anywhere grow up to be President."

This belief has been representative of American ideals that if you work hard, you can accomplish many great things.

Please contact me if you'd like an MP3 of the song.

11/3/08

ATTENTION: JOE THE VIOLINIST PIMPING FOR HIS AND GRAND FUNK RAILROAD’S REAL PUBLICIST

ATTENTION: JOE THE VIOLINIST PIMPING FOR HIS AND GRAND FUNK RAILROAD’S REAL PUBLICIST


The real Grand Funk Railroad publicist Anne Leighton is issuing retractions to a variety of mainstream media outlets, who announced that she handles public relations for Joe the Plumber. This comes after Bill Maher announced on Friday, October 31, that Grand Funk Railroad's publicist was handling press for a wannabe musician and John McCain spokesperson named Joe the Plumber.

Leighton states, "While I certainly hope Joe the Plumber gets his record deal, so he really understands what it's like NOT to earn more than $250,000 a year, I would never work for someone who neither pays taxes nor is able to remove the waste product from anyone’s drains.

"However I work with Joe the Violinist, whose wondrous music can drain the world’s junk from your brains….and even a few drains."

Leighton has been publicizing Grand Funk Railroad since 2001 and also a band called Stratospheerius, which features “Joe the Violinist” Deninzon! Joe recently played a BarackandRoll event in Hoboken, and even tho’ he’s originally from Russia, he is a capitalist.

Here's a link to Joe the Violinist fiddling "If I Were A Rich Man....."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAqe4bkUNRU

Joe's available for commentary, but even better to play violin!

His group Stratospheerius has one more show, this Friday night—November 7 at the Underscore in New York City, and then will be starting work on a new album. Joe's current album, HEADSPACE received accolades in a range of media outlets and airplay on most every jam band radio show in North America.

Justin Scro reviews, "Stratospheerius is creating a genre of its own," and "the vocal performance of Joe Deninzon is on par with his stringed abilities." THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER praises Stratospheerius for its "funky electric violins, driving guitar rhythms, and fevered drumming layered in an explosive fashion."

Other outlets have been praising the group for not fitting into one genre. Mark Kirby of MUSIC DISH NETWORK writes, "Stratospheerius' music has smarts, but not of the cold calculating kind; the music has rawness and intensity, but not the stupid punk kind. Statospheerius have a band sound that avoids the pitfalls of jazz, while keeping its sophistication and musical depth." COSMOS GAMING's Chris Dahlberg says, "Stratospheerius is an impressive group, and HEADSPACE continues to see them progressing further and further in both technical prowess and original ideas. There are other groups that try to work string instruments in like this one has, but no one else has the ability to switch up genres like Stratospheerius."



http://www.joedeninzon.com

ELLIOTT MURPHY: ON TOUR IN THE USA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN EIGHT YEARS

ELLIOTT MURPHY - the legendary Paris-based American rock troubadour will embark on his first U.S. tour in eight years. The tour kicks off December 2008 in the Northeast U.S. (New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, DC, Albany, Larchmont, Amagansett), and continues on to the West Coast, where he hasn’t played in 12 years) in January 2009 (San Francisco, Felton, Tehachapi, Los Angeles, San Diego, Long Beach). Elliott will be accompanied by his longtime guitarist extraordinaire Olivier Durand. More shows will follow in Spring 2009.

Elliott Murphy has collaborated with Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Phil Collins and other great rock ‘n roll names. His ground-breaking, debut album AQUASHOW was recently called an “Album Classic” in a full page review in the UK’s prestigious Uncut magazine.

Opening all shows will be multi-cultural singer-songwriter Jann Klose, who was born in Germany and raised in Kenya, South Africa, Hamburg and first came to the US as an exchange student in Cleveland. His album REVERIE is now being played on over 80 stations in North America. Jann tours aggressively in the U.S. and Europe. Recent shows included collaborations with Annie Haslam and John Tout of Renaissance, sharing the stage with Marty Stuart, Rosanne Cash and Roger McGuinn at Martin Guitars’ 175th Anniversary Concert, and a special show at the German Embassy in Washington, DC. Jann moved to the Bronx in 2000, the same year Elliott played his last show at the Bottom Line in New York City.

Elliott Murphy will be promoting his latest release NOTES FROM THE UNDERGROUND - his 30th album in a non-stop 35-year career. Album Music Guide (AMG) recently awarded NOTES a rave 4-Star review making Elliott one of the rare artists who have received over fifteen 4 -star reviews on this prestigious review site.


Elliott was born to a show business family in New York and began his career by winning the 1966 New York State Battle of the Bands, and then followed a troubadour’s odyssey across Europe included a bit part in Federico Fellini's film “Roma.” His career was launched by the critical success of his debut album AQUASHOW followed by LOST GENERATION (Produced by Doors producer Paul Rothschild), NIGHT LIGHTS (featuring Billy Joel), JUST A STORY FROM AMERICA (featuring Phil Collins and Mick Taylor) and an extraordinary duet with Bruce Springsteen on his 1996 masterpiece SELLING THE GOLD. (Bruce often invites Elliott on stage with him during his European tours.) In October 2008, he was honored with a monumental exhibition in Paris’ Town Hall entitled “Elliott Murphy - Last of the Rock Stars – Retrospective” featuring hundreds of posters, photos, videos, album covers and memorabilia.

Elliott Murphy is also a published author of short story collections (most recently Café Notes) and two novels (Cold And Electric and the neo-western Poetic Justice) as well as penning the liner notes for the Velvet Underground album 1969 Live. Elliott has lived in Paris for 18 years and has performed at such prestigious venues as the Montreux Jazz Festival as well as opening for Bob Dylan at the Pistoia Blues Festival.

Dec 10 2008 Johnny D’s Somerville, Massachusetts
Dec 12 2008 The Stephen Talkhouse Amagansett, New York
Dec 13 2008 Valentine’s Albany, New York
Dec 15 2008 The Living Room New York, New York
Dec 16, 2008 Velvet Lounge Washington, DC
Dec 17 2008 World Cafe Live Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Dec 18 2008 Watercolor Cafe Larchmont, New York

Jan 7, 2009 Café Du Nord San Francisco, California
Jan 8, 2009 Don Quixote’s Felton, California
Jan 10, 2009 Hotel Café, Los Angeles, California
Jan 11, 2009 Mama’s Hilly Beans, Tehachapi, California
Jan 13 2009 Acoustic Music San Diego San Diego, California
Jan 14 2009 The Blue Cafe Long Beach, California
Jan 16 2009 NAMM 2009 Anaheim, California

Elliott also tours in Europe and there are a number of dates posted on his myspace.com/elliottmurphy.

http://www.elliottmurphy.com
Media/Industry page at http://idisk.mac.com/elliottmurphy-Public
http://www.jannklose.com

Fans can help promote the tour at the link:
http:www.bestindie.com/emjktour

****
Let me also give a plug for the Humane Society as Elliott also wrote about the importance of responsible ownership and adopting from animal shelters at the Humane Society’s Shelter Rock web site. In December the HSUS will be auctioning off an autographed Elliott Murphy fashion tote bag.
Visit http://www.hsus.org/about_us/celebrity_support/shelters_rock_artists_sing_3.html

And you’ll see reflections from all kinds of an array of music folks including another person who collaborated recently with Jann—Annie Haslam. Heavy D., Carole King, and MUTTS cartoonist Patrick McDonnell are in there, and so is Patti Page, who has updated her “How Much Is That Doggie in The Window” to “(Look at that) Doggie in the Shelter.”

http://www.hsus.org

Jann Klose Update

There are also shows Jann is doing separate from his tour with Elliott Murphy:

Nov. 5: TV TAPING for future broadcast in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California: Horses Sing None of It Randolph, NJ

Nov 13 Therese's Great nites Youngstown, OH
Nov 14 I-Rock Detroit, MI
(with Tiles and Chain Reaction)
Nov 15 Kent State Folk Festival presented by WKSU Kent, OH
Workshop on Performing Abroad (with Adam Klein).
Nov 15 The Winchester Cleveland, OH
(with Morticia's Chair)
Nov 17, 18 11th Annual Jeff Buckley Tribute Concert,
Uncommon Ground Chicago, IL
Nov 22 Crossing Borders Live @ The Lost Dog
To broadcast on WVBR 93.5 FM Ithaca, NY
(with Greg Klyma)
Dec 3 Cyber Cafe West Binghamton, NY .com
Dec 8 NBC TV - The 10! Show Philadelphia, PA
Dec 20 Sellersville Theater w/ Annie Haslam

http://www.jannklose.com

BRITISH ROCKERS ASIA ANNOUNCE GRAND PRIZE WINNER

New Mexico Fan’s Video for “An Extraordinary Life”
Selected by ASIA as Song’s Official Online Music Video


In what may be an exciting new case of “life imitating art,” the acclaimed British rock super-group, ASIA has announced Doug Purdy of Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the grand prizewinner of the band’s QuickTime music video contest for “An Extraordinary Life.” The video contest was launched by the band, its label, and strategic partners as a new initiative between ASIA and its fans. For the contest, (which was hosted by www.asiavideocontest.com), ASIA fans were invited by the band, in partnership with QuickTime, to create their own music videos for “Extraordinary Life,” a track from ASIA’s new EMI America Records album, PHOENIX.

The song was designed to celebrate the positive aspects and memories in everyone’s life, and encourages the listener to “Carp Diem;” living every day to the fullest. The song was written by ASIA members John Wetton and Geoff Downes in direct response to Wetton’s recent successful recovery from open heart surgery. Purdy’s video, like many others entered into the contest, contains personal home video footage and photos interspersed with footage of ASIA performing the song, for unique interactive experience.

“This was a unique way of connecting with our fans, via the web,” says Carl Palmer, drummer. “It was interesting to see the type of images our fans thought could fit the song, itself.”

As the contest’s top prizewinner, Purdy has also won an Apple MacBook AIR laptop, custom etched with ASIA’s logo. In addition, his creative video has been selected as the song’s official online music video by ASIA’s Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton. The video is featured at ASIA’s official websites, www.myspace.com/asia and www.originalasia.com.

PHOENIX, ASIA’s first studio album since 1983 with all four original members, was released in North America on April 15, 2008 by EMI America Records. Since 1982, ASIA has sold more than 15 million albums, and the band recently completed its latest 52-city world tour (the third since the band re-formed in 2006) to support the global release of PHOENIX.

Media Contact: Bruce Pilato - brucetune@aol.com
585-454-2756
http://www.originalasia.com

new videos linked to the links on this site.

The last link on that site is called “VIDEOS I LIKE I LIKE,” which has two new clips:
1)Stratospheerius: part one of a five-part internet documentary of the group’s September tour at the Detroit International Jazz Fest and in California.

2)Tower of Power and Stephanie Heinzmann (the winner of German Idol) singing “Only So Much Oil in The Ground” performed in Zurich. That is a song the group wrote 40 years ago, and it’s making news radio airplay.

9/7/08

Jann Klose & Annie Haslam, & more news

Jann Klose has been attracting tons of support from the media, with now over 70 adds on radio including some medium rotation airplay on WAER-Syracuse.  XM Radio has a number of channels that have come out in full support of Jann and his album, REVERIE—The Loft, XMU, and Fine Tuning.  Regional BBCs, Radio Caroline and stations from here to Canada and Hawaii, and Japan are spinning REVERIE’s beauty across their gorgeous airwaves.



He is collaborating with Renaissance’s lead singer Annie Haslam, the two are presenting a show September 20 at the Sellersville Theater, in Sellersville, PA at 7:30 PM.  Web site is http://www.st94.com.  Special guest for this event is John Tout, the keyboardist from Renaissance.  Annie and Jann are also doing a number of radio shows this season, including one for XM’s Fine Tuning, which will broadcast in October.

He is also performing a program of originals and songs from his homeland in Germany at the German Embassy on September 10.  To get on the waiting list for this event, please e-mail concert@germany.info by September 8.

Jann is also playing at a private event for Martin Guitar’s 175th Anniversary on September 12 at the State Theatre in Easton, PA.  He will be sharing the stage with three iconic singer-songwriters from the folk/country/Americana scene, an incredible finger style player, a strong blues act from the Philadelphia scene, as well as known session guitarists--all who love Martin guitars.  I can't reveal their names at this time, but this includes an end of the show session--with nine guitarists on stools on stage—that he'll savor.    
 
http://www.jannklose.com

Stratospheerius stuns Harry Shearer

Stratospheerius will be playing live on the Shaman’s Den Special, Monday, September 8, at 8 PM Pacific/11 east coat time at http://www.luver.com.

The group is in the midst of its first California tour, and folks are coming out to their shows in significant numbers.  While lead singer/violinist/mandolinist Joe Deninzon has toured California as both a solo act and with other artists, the group is excited to be playing a number of west coast dates for the first time in its seven year career.  They met the Simpsons’ producer, Harry Shearer and wife, singer-songwriter Judith Owen, and gave them its live CD, LIVE WIRES, which has the theme from the Simpsons!
 
Some of the dates are part of the V3 tour, which includes Jesus Florindo and Stick player Gary Jibilian (Joe calls him “fiddle-sticks!”).  Joe will be organizing more V3 dates, which “defy the laws of gravity….and violin!”

Support for the band from fans, radio, and media has been significant for Stratospheerius’ HEADSPACE album. THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER praises Stratospheerius for its "funky electric violins, driving guitar rhythms, and fevered drumming layered in an explosive fashion."  Mark Kirby of MUSIC DISH NETWORK writes, "Stratospheerius' music has smarts, but not of the cold calculating kind; the music has rawness and intensity, but not the stupid punk kind. Stratospheerius have a band sound that avoids the pitfalls of jazz, while keeping its sophistication and musical depth."  COSMOS GAMING's Chris Dahlberg says, "Stratospheerius is an impressive group, and HEADSPACE continues to see them progressing further and further in both technical prowess and original ideas.  There are other groups that try to work string instruments in like this one has, but no one else has the ability to switch up genres like Stratospheerius."


STRATOSPHEERIUS SHOWS
(Please call the venue and visit http://www.myspace.com/stratospheerius for updates.)
 
Sep 7, 2008           Griddle, Berkeley, CA
Sep 9, 2008         Red Fox Tavern Eureka, CA
Sep 11, 2008               Di Piazza's Long Beach, CA
V3-- VIOLINISTS DEFYING THE LAWS OF GRAVITY….and VIOLIN!

Sep 25, 2008           Carol's SIlver Dollar Jamestown, NY
Sep 26, 2008           Harvest Celebration Fulton, NY
Sep 27, 2008           Beardslee Castle Little Falls, NY
Oct. 3, 4, 2008      HarvestFest, Sparks, ME


http://www.stratospheerius.com

The Fabulous Thunderbirds

I just started working with The Fabulous Thunderbirds this summer, and am blown away by the band’s traditional vibe.  Singer Kim Wilson is a wonderful harp (harmonica) player, and his bandmates are Jay Moeller (drums), Johnny Moeller (guitar, Randy Bermudes (bass), and Mike Keller (guitar).

Due February is a new album, I’LL BE AROUND.

 
Sep 06, 2008  Londonderry, NH  Tupelo Music Hall    
Sep 07, 2008  Princeton, MA  Wachusett Mountain Blues Festival    Sep 13, 2008  Charlotte, NC  Blues, Brews and BBQ    
Oct 09, 2008  Las Vegas, NV  Canyon Club    
Oct 11, 2008  Redding, CA  Big League Dreams Sports Park
w/Eddie Money
Jan 24, 2009 - Jan 31, 2009 Caribbean Sea Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise

http://www.fabulousthunderbirds.com

Elliott Murphy heads up!

I’m ecstatic to spread the word about one of my favorite singers/songwriters/ authors/motivators/music biz survivors/and 18-year resident of Paris, France—Elliott Murphy.  He is releasing an album, NOTES FROM THE UNDERGROUND.  I have a few advance promos.

From September 10-26, Elliott (in cooperation with The Mayor of the 6th Arrondisement in Paris and the University of Paris) will be presenting a two week long exposition, ELLIOTT MURPHY-LAST OF THE ROCK STARS.  This will honor his 35 year career in music and literature.  On September 26, Elliott will have a live concert at the Maire (town hall) of the 6th Arrondisement in Paris right near the famous cafés of St. Germain.  

Elliott has quite a rock & roll archive—his handwritten liner notes for the Velvet Underground 1969 album, a photo of a young Bruce Springsteen and him at the 1976 CBS Convention.
 
From about December 10-17th, Elliott and his electric guitarist Olivier Durand will be playing his first dates in the States in eight years.  They’ll be in the Northeast….I’ll have a full itinerary and touring partner information.  First confirmed date is December 17 at World Café Live, in Philadelphia.
http://www.elliottmurphy.com

Tower of Power update

TOWER OF POWER’s upcoming soul covers CD is due around January ’09.  And the album includes duets with lead singer Larry Braggs and Sam Moore (of Sam and Dave), Joss Stone, Tom Jones, and Huey Lewis.  It was Lewis—who in the ‘80s—had Tower of Power as his back up band, and thus creating new life for the group’s career.

Meantime, drummer David Garibaldi has compiled EAST BAY ARCHIVE, VOL. 1, which features rarities from the TOP vaults.

Visit http://www.towerofpower.com for tour dates, including a 40th anniversary reunion at the Fillmore West, San Francisco, on the 18th of October.

Carmine Appice on BBC, September 20, SLAMM! tourdates


SLAMM! in action!


On September 20, the BBC2 in the UK will be running THE CARMINE APPICE STORY between 7 and 8 PM UK time (2 east coast/5 west coast).  Link for this special presentation by Pete Mitchell is  
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/mitchell/

Carmine’s heritage includes co-founding Vanilla Fudge, debatably the first heavy metal band ever. He inspired Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, co-wrote “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” for Rod Stewart, was featured in Ozzy Osbourne and Ted Nugent’s bands, worked with Cactus, Jeff Beck, Pink Floyd.  Carmine’s the author of REALISTIC ROCK, which is the most successful book on rock drumming.   

Now he’s leading and starring in SLAMM!, a theatrical event with five drummers and a guitarist, and here are upcoming shows.
Sep 12, 2008   BB KING BLUES CLUB, New York, NY
Sep 19, 2008   SELLERSVILLE THEATER, Sellersville, PA
Sep 20, 2008   BOULTON CENTER, Bay Shore
Nov. 8, 2008    MOHEGAN SUN CASINO, Uncasville, CT

http://www.slammusa.com
http://www.carmineappice.com

Annie Haslam art

Here’s a plug for my friend Annie Haslam, who—in addition to collaborating with Jann Klose—has created “the Annie Haslam Violin Signature Series,” uniquely painted electric violins for Mark Wood’s company.   After a consultation, she paints your Viper, Sabre, Stingay, or Cobra just for you in a one-of-a-kind artistic representation of your musical vision. She can even do a custom-matching bow!




Please call 1.516.767.6677 And visit: http://www.woodviolins.com/html/anniehaslam.html

And there is a new official Renaissance myspace site at
myspace.com/renaissanceofficial

http://www.anniehaslam.com

7/9/08

JANN KLOSE'S UK & GERMAN TOUR STARTS THIS WEEK



New York City-based singer-songwriter Jann Klose kicks off his first ever UK tour this week in London, with two dates:  Thursday, July 10 at the Plough Inn where he'll be appearing in concert with topical folk singer David Ferrard.  On Friday the 11 he'll be sharing a bill with a number of talented songwriters at the Regal Room.

After that he'll perform throughout the Midlands for a variety of shows in towns including Leicester, Coventry, Birmingham, culminating in a get-together with some of the Midlands' prolific songwriters at Singer's Night in an event hosted by R&B singer Norma Lewis at the Library Theatre, in Birmingham.  The schedule below is a revised listing of tour dates.  And there will be one more show added on July 19.  (We’ll write to you about it as soon as it’s confirmed!)

Already Jann is receiving support from the UK media for his new album, REVERIE, which he co-produced with Stewart Lerman (Antony and the Johnsons, Dar Williams, Loudon Wainwright III) and features guest musicians including guitarist Ryan Scott, trumpeter Dan Brantigan (Kaki King) and oboist Megan Marolf (Philip Glass Ensemble).  Dominic Maita (Bronski Beat, Bryan Ferry) mastered the 12 song album.   Songs from REVERIE are being featured on the web site, ilike.com.   One track, "Watching You Go," which is receiving airplay on Triple AAA radio in the United States is exclusively available online at http://www.ilike.com/artist/jann+klose.

Radio stations that have played the CD include Radio Caroline and Leicester's Takeover Radio. The BBC in Birmingham will have Jann appearing on Paul Franks afternoon drive show, on Monday afternoon, at about 2:30 or 3 PM on  July 14.  Listen at 96.5 FM or online at http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/local_radio/index.shtml

 In addition to write-ups in local publications, including the Coventry Telegraph and Stourbridge News, as well as Time Out London, the seemingly refined Meriel Flavell--of Rock3music.com showed how she'd been swept off her feet by Klose's REVERIE, stating, "I was enchanted from start to finish....the overall sound will leave you deeply satisfied with a range of emotions explored and conflicts resolved

Another native Brit, Renaissance lead singer Annie Haslam is also a fan, and she will be sharing the stage with Jann near Philadelphia at the Sellersville 1894 Theater on September 20th.

Jann was born in Mannheim, Germany, raised in Nairobi, Kenya and Johannesburg, South Africa until age 10. After schooling in Hamburg, Germany and Cleveland, Ohio, he now lives in The Bronx, New York. He's released three independent CDs since 1997, ENOUGH SAID, THE STRANGEST THING, and BLACK BOX, plus the digital LIVE AT THE BITTER END. "It's Not The Way" off BLACK BOX EP was included on SAAB's 60th anniversary CD in France, and on the CD, PRAMBORS HITS 3, in Indonesia. The title track "Black Box" was licensed to the Warner Bros. DVD “Dead Broke," starring Paul Sorvino.   

 
 U.K. AND GERMAN TOUR DATES
Please call the venue and visit http://www.jannklose.com to confirm show.

July 10: Plough Inn, London
July 11: The Regal Room, London (Hammersmith)
July 12: Shakespeare's Head, Leicester
July 14: The Yardbird, Birmingham
July 15: The Island Bar, Birmingham
July 16: Katie Fitzgeralds, Stourbridge
July 17: Escape Bar, Coventry
July 18: Library Theatre/Singer's Night, Birmingham
July 19: TBA
July 22: Comicaze, Cottbus, Germany
July 23: Kunstfabrik Schlot, Berlin, Germany
July 24: Polyester, Oldenburg, Germany
July 25 + 26: Kukuun, Hamburg, Germany
 

6/29/08

THE BOMB THAT FOLLOWED ME HOME To Be Released October 15, 2008



Rumpleville Books is pleased to release the third book in Cevin Soling’s series of “fairly twisted fairy tales.”  THE BOMB THAT FOLLOWED ME HOME is the story of a boy, who is trailed by a stray bomb, which is spoken and thought of as a dog. The boy begs his mother to keep it, but she knows the way kids are, and doesn’t want to get stuck guarding it all the time.  FOREWORD magazine writes that Cevin Soling and illustrator Steve Kille ”have the power to make readers laugh, and then think. Then scoff at the futility of thinking.”

The Rumpleville series are contemporary fables that are replete with social commentary.  Conflicts arise from human foibles responding to an indifferent universe.  Matters are always made worse by self-interested parties who possess an aggressive disregard for others, or for common sense, or both.  Absurdity does not come from living in a world without meaning, but rather from people who insist there is meaning and knowingly or unknowingly act in opposition of their convictions.
 
The fairy tale format highlights the perverse morality of contemporary culture and foiled promises of "happily ever after" endings.  Like ANIMAL FARM, the simplicity of plot also draws attention to the political intentions of the work.

Soling has expanded this book series on his award-winning work in cutting-edge film (“A Hole in the Head,” “The War on the War on Drugs”) and independent music (The Love Kills Theory, The Neanderthal Spongecake). New York-based Spectacle Films, Inc. produces documentaries, animation, features, and experimental short films, all of which are engaged in some form of social critique. Through its publishing arm, it produces the Rumpleville Chronicles series and books of fine art photography.  Soling penned these one-of-a-kind tales of jolly elves, conflicted Communists, pet bombs, stoner dragons, and assorted sacred sagas in need of ironic tweaking.

Mr. Soling is joined in this new endeavor by psychedelic artist/musician Steve Kille, best known for playing bass in, and designing art for, the cult band Dead Meadow (www.deadmeadow.com). When the two met on New York City’s downtown music circuit, Kille said he “immediately resonated with Cevin’s vision of an illustrated series that meshed adult themes with an offbeat storybook style, though I could have been under the spell of THE JOLLY ELF.”







Other released books in the series are:
THE JOLLY ELF, the cautionary tale of a “psycho jolly merry killer elf,” who likes to sing, especially at 4:00 in the morning, and who, incidentally,
collects shrunken heads.

THE DISCIPLES OF TROTSKY “It’s revolution time in the magical merry world of Rumpleville, but can two tragic ring toss victims rally the spirit of the land and overthrow the bourgeoisie townsfolk?”

Due out in the future:
  KIERKEGAARD’S DILEMMA
  ELDWYN THE LAID-BACK DRAGON
  THE LAND OF PLENTY
  BORIS THE DOG  
  DESTINO SONO BUONO
  WEMBLY OF THE CAYUGA FOREST
  TIFFANY BRITTANY BROOKE

The Rumpleville series are expected to sell well through specialty shops, independent bookstores, comic book stores, music stores, museum and general bookstores. College bookstores, political bookstores, children’s bookstores, and libraries are strongly encouraged to inquire. The series will be supported by National Publicity, Print Advertising, Online Promotion, Direct Mail, and an innovative Guerilla Marketing Campaign.

For distributor and store orders call toll-free 1-877-TROTSKY (876-8759). For direct consumer orders, or to learn about upcoming titles, please visit http://www.rumpleville.com.

###



THE RUMPLEVILLE CHRONICLES
(All titles U.S. $14.95, CAN $16.95, 37 pp., hardcover, 6 5/8 x 10 3/4)
Ordering: 1-877-876-8759
 
THE BOMB THAT FOLLOWED ME HOME:
LOC: 2006928608 • ISBN 0-9767771-2-6 • ISBN 13: 978-0-9767771-2-0

SLAMM featured on ESPN/NASCAR video beats on multi million dollar race car, on youtube.com


(Daytona, Florida) You can now see Carmine Appice's new theatrical drum show SLAMM 's action-packed promotional video titled "SLAMMCAR" on "YOU TUBE.” The video, which features the SLAMM cast playing the NASCAR garage, has been shown on ESPN2 before, and during NASCAR races for the current racing season.  Appice was selected to compose a high energy, percussive NASCAR theme song, featuring such “instruments” as air wrenches, hand grinders, wrenches and tool boxes.  The rowdy SLAMM cast then played the theme song in the NASCAR garage, which included giving a good beating to the hood of a multi-million dollar race car. “I'm glad they didn't make us pay for it,” joked Appice. The NASCAR/SLAMM video began airing early March, and will be seen by over 3 million viewers every week.

GET SLAMMED CLICK BELOW
http://youtube.com/watch?v=VD20UXR8XKQ

Upcoming SLAMM shows!!!


July 30             Camp Romaca, Hinsdale, MA (Springfield Area)
September 6         University of Washington Seattle, WA  
September 6         El Corazon, Seattle, WA
September 12         BB Kings Blues Club, New York, NY
September 19          Sellersville Theater, Sellersville, PA
September 20          Boulton Center Bay Shore, NY   (two shows)
November 1        Five Towns College  Long Island, NY
November 8        Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT
 November 22         Sky City Casino, Acoma NM

JOE DENINZON—INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MUSICALITY--TOURS WITH “SPIDER DANCE,” METRO STRINGS and more!

Joe Deninzon’s summer “vacation” includes collaborations with a variety of folks.  He’s the musical director for SPIDER DANCE, which he describes as an Italian Riverdance crossed with Cirque Du Soleil, and celebrates the mythical and therapeutic history of the dance, the Tarantella. Mixed with electronic music, the show features fire dancers, stilt walkers, and aerial dancers and percussionist Alessandra Belloni.   From August 9 through the 23, SPIDER DANCE will tour Spain and Italy. For more information, visit: http://www.alessandrabelloni.com and http://www.theriversidechurchny.org

Joe has also co-created an electric, classical music quartet called Metro Strings.  He, of course, plays violin.  Also in the quartet are: and Brazz Tree violinist Mazz Swift and Sweet Plantain’s cellist/vocalist David Gotay, and Hiroko Taguchi on viola.  Friend the group at www.myspace.com/metrostrings.

He’s got other projects happening; check them out at his NEW web site http://www.joedeninzon.com.

Stratospheerius has many tour highlights this summer and an unreleased live bootleg song with vocals called “Climbing,” which he wrote for his wife, Yulia, a member of the New York City Philharmonic.   
 
Here are confirmed tourdates for Stratospheerius (more dates, especially on the West Coast in September, to be confirmed)
 
July 11             w/ Metro Strings live!  Fat Baby, New York, NY
July 12          Great South Bay Music Festival
July 25           w/Danny Aiello’s jazz band St. Anne’s Church, Hoboken, NJ
August 29                The Winchester, Lakewood OH
August 30                 Detroit International Jazz Festival
http://www.detroitjazzfest.com/
September 4           Winston’s  San Diego, CA  
September 5th          Leavitt Pavilion, Pasadena, CA
(FREE ALL AGES CONCERT)
September 9           The Red Fox Tavern, Eureka, CA
September 13           Jam on the Lake  Williamstown, NJ  
September 26              Harvest Celebration, Fulton, NY
September 27           Bearslee Castle   Little Falls, NY  
October 3 and 4       Harvest Fest in Maine   Starks, ME  

http://www.stratospheerius.com
 



photo copyright and owned by Kevin Kopanski at cleverock.com

Jay and the Americans' classic rock shows, '08- early '09

Jay and the Americans are performing very special classic shows this year.  While one of the group’s concerts are always a treat, these gigs are connected to the history of rock and roll:

August 9, the group performs a benefit concert for the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in Sharon, PA.  Visit the web site, http://www.vocalgroup.org. The Vocal Group Hall of Fame inducts performers from every era of music history where group members harmonize with each other.  Inducted groups include Simon and Garfunkel, the Cowsills, the Whispers….
 
On November 1, the guys will be performing at a tribute to Gene Pitney to raise funds for the Somers Education Foundation, which raises money for special educational programs.  The benefit takes place at La Renaissance Banquet House in East Windsor, CT.  The contact number is 413-531-6104.  Event producer Evan Plotkin was a childhood friend of the late Gene Pitney.  Gene’s career started in the late ‘50s, and included so many highlights: including introducing psychedelia to American culture with a 1963 hit “Mecca,” singing pop songs with a theatrical flair--“Town Without Pity,” “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.”  In the late 1980s, he collaborated with Mark Almond. Like Jay and the Americans, Gene recorded “Cara Mia.”  Visit my youtube playlist to hear and see Gene performing “Mecca,” “It Hurts To Be In Love,” and other hits with a full orchestra.
 
Jay and the Americans will also perform on a classic rock cruise from January 17 through 24 in the Eastern Caribbean. The tour includes The Guess Who, Paul Revere and Dean Torrance of Jan and Dean fame.  Tickets are available c/o Tammy Selee at Harmon Travel: 208-388-3000.  Visit the site:  
http://www.concertsatsea.com/casarticles.htm

There will be some amazing shows in group members' hometowns:
July 27 is the Boulton Center for the Arts in Bay Shore, NY.  Phone: 631-794-2040.

Jay Reincke is based out of Chicago.  These two summer dates will be great:
July 18, at the Lake Zurich Alpine Fest, in Lion’s Park, Lake Zurich, IL.  Contact:
847-847-2171 and http://www.lzlions.org

The Buckinghams will also be on hand for the Northbrook Days Festival, which runs from July 30 through August 3.  Jay and the Americans will perform on August 2. 847-498-5555, and http://www.northbrookdays.com

For more tourdates, please visit http://www.jayandtheamericans.net.

General news on clients

Please, watch these videos on my site, http://www.youtube.com/anneleighton
*Slamm’s SLAMMCAR
*Gene Pitney from UK TV
* Strawbs “Grace Darling” at Kent Stage

**Jann Klose, a dynamic singer-songwriter who makes music that seems to defy categorization.  We’ve had folk, jazz, progressive rockers, and pop fiends claiming his music as their own. We're going to Triple AAA radio, starting in July with four emphasis tracks (although it looks as though stations are choosing a variety of songs from the album!)  The song “Watching You Go” is a lead radio track both in the States and internationally. And it is exclusively online at http://www.ilike.com/artist/Jann+Klose . Jann’s summer dates include a few weeks in the UK, Germany, and a last day of summer September 20 collaboration with Renaissance lead singer Annie Haslam at the Sellersville Theater, in Sellersville, PA.  Visit http://www.jannklose.com.


**Tower of Power has many dates in Europe late June and most of July.  The group will be back in the States July 27 for shows in the West Coast through September. Please visit the band’s web site for them http://www.towerofpower.com.
 
**The American Band, Grand Funk Railroad will be playing live on the fourth of July at the Motorplex, in Ennis, TX, for the extreme drag racing TV show1320X.  More summer dates at http://www.grandfunkrailroad.com.

**In addition to Jethro Tull celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, drummer Doane Perry is also celebrating a special milestone—his 25th year with the group.  He is available for interviews this season.  For Ian Anderson, I’m mainly focused on tour press and national print media for him. 

North American tour dates can be found at http://www.jethrotull.com.

**Breaking news, is that Strawbs will be continuing as a four-piece group.  Keyboardist John Hawken is retiring as of this tour.  John’s career has included the original Renaissance or Illusion (with Keith Relf and Jim McCarty), the Nashville Teens, and Spooky Tooth.  I’m not sure if his site will be updated, but there is some great information on John’s career at http://www.johnhawken.com.   The Strawbs have new songs (“The Broken Hearted Bride” and “Call To Action”) from the band’s September 23 album—to be called, THE BROKEN HEARTED BRIDE on Dave Cousins’ myspace site, http://www.myspace.com/davecousinsuk.

http://www.strawbsweb.co.uk

 


5/29/08

Strawbs tour States in June

 The Strawbs will be touring, again, this June in the group’s classic 1974 lineup.   

What originally endeared this progressive rock band to fans was their unique musical evolution out of 1960s English Folk music. The band has enjoyed commercial success over the years with a talented array of British musicians.   First starting in 1967 as the Strawberry Hill Boys, a bluegrass and folk trio, the Strawbs became stars of the British progressive rock and folk scene at the same time—gracefully using the traditions of electric and acoustic music for their unique sound.

The group’s reputation in the U.S. and Canada firmed up with the release of the A&M Records albums 'Hero & Heroine' and 'Ghosts. Still led by founder David Cousins, the same band that recorded those historic albums will be performing here-- Dave Lambert on lead guitar/vocals, John Hawken on keyboards, Chas Cronk on bass/vocals, and drummer Rod Coombes.

These gifted musicians have each traveled through a special musical journey; Cousins is widely considered to be one of Britain's top songwriters- he played guitar for both Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell on their first UK TV shows; Lambert's work with the band Fire is noteworthy; Hawken enjoyed success with The Nashville Teens and Renaissance; Cronk has worked with Rick Wakeman (a former Strawbs member before joining Yes) and for five years toured with former Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett; Coombes was part of Steelers Wheel.

In 1974, The Strawbs album HERO AND HEROINE spent 17 weeks on the Billboard album charts, also selling well in Canada. The band's follow-up, GHOSTS also spent several months on the Billboard album charts. The Strawbs have a huge catalog of great songs to draw upon and they continue to release new material and win over new fans.  

June 10      New York, NY   B.B. King's Blues Club     
June 11    Sellersville, PA   Sellersville Theater 1894     
June 12      Annapolis, MD   Rams Head On Stage     
June 13      Kent, OH   Kent Stage     
June 14      Columbus, OH   The Thirsty Ear     
June 15    Ann Arbor, MI   The Ark     
June 17     Chicago, IL   Abbey Pub     
June 18      Milwaukee, WI   Shank Hall     
June 20     Syracuse, NY   Red House     
June 21     Pawling, NY   Towne Crier Café

http://www.strawbsweb.co.uk
http://www.myspace.com.strawbsmusic

Joe Deninzon News

 Joe Deninzon is rockin', funkin', and jazzin’ with Stratospheerius, and then he’s classicalin’, rockin’ and experimentin’ with the Metro Strings.  Metro Strings is a group made up of violinist Mazz Swift-Carnlet (Brazz Tree)and cellist David Cotay (Sweet Plantain String Quartet and Sound Liberation).  The repertoire includes covers of hit songs and combines vocals with rock, hip hop, jazz, funk, and electronic music.  There are some covers at http://www.myspace.com/metrostrings .   

The group is made its world debut at St. Anne’s Church in Hoboken, on May 18.

Joe was interviewed online with guitarist Daryl Dobson for Solar guitars, and you can hear the chat online at http://solarguitars.com/joedeninzon/index.html /

Stratospheerius drummer Lucianna Padmore received a great review in the March issue of MODERN DRUMMER, "On the opening track of Headspace, the sophisticated, high-energy Stratospheerius unleashes a funky, infectious vibe that draws the listener in and never lets go. The deep grooves and serious fusion chops of drummer Lucianna Padmore push Joe Deninzon's powerful violin-driven compositions with authority. This would be an exciting band to see live."

Joe’s band Stratospheerius continues to tour in support of his album, HEADSPACE.  In fact there is a fascinating acoustic performance Stratospheerius’ hit “Old Ghost” on youtube.com at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yUw-SR94qw

Upcoming shows:

 
June 19: Muddy River Smokehouse, Portsmouth, NH
June 20:  Freedomfest, in Maine   (http://www.mainevocals.net)
July 12:  Great South Bay Music Festival, Patchogue, New York
(opening for Mickey Hart)
July 25:  St. Anne’s Feast, Hoboken, NJ (opening act: Danny Aiello's jazz band)
September 5:  Levitt Pavilion, Pasadena
September 13:  Jam on the Lake, Williamstown, NJ
October 3:  Harvest Fest, Maine

http://www.stratospheerius.com
http://www.joedeninzon.com
http://www.myspace.com/metrostrings
http://www.myspace.com/lucianap

Grand Funk Railroad dates

              
 Grand Funk Railroad is original members: drummer Don Brewer and bassist Mel Schacher, plus singer Max Carl, guitarist Bruce Kulick and keyboardist Tim Cashion.

Tour dates scheduled:
May 14           San Bernardino Co. Fair-Grdstd          San Bernardino Co. Fair                             
June 7              Chingawassa Days Festival              Marion, Kansas                             
June 14           Green Valley Ranch Showroom            Henderson, Nevada
June 17            San Diego Co. Fair                                 Del Mar, California  
June 27-28     Fallsview Casino Resort                     Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada
July 3           Red Rhythm & Boom Celebration                                          
                  Mason Montgomery Rd/Corwin Pk        Mason, Ohio  
July 4    Texas Motorplex                                  Ennis, Texas  
July 5         Paragon Casino Mari Center                  Marksville, Louisiana  
July 12       Common Ground Music Festival      
Adado Riverfront Park                            Lansing, Michigan   
July 19        Muskegon Bike Time Rally                   KS Productions, Inc.                               
                  Heritage Park                                Muskegon, Michigan

July 25          Halfway Jam                                       Royalton, Minnesota                       
July 26-27    Busch Gardens Williamsburg            Williamsburg, Virginia  
July 31           California Mid-State Fair                    Paso Robles, California
August 2        Hilton's Grand Th./A.C. Hilton           Atlantic City, New Jersey   
August 9          Indian Ranch                                     Webster, Massachusetts  
August 16         Summer Days                                   Idaho Falls, Idaho  
August 23        Ft. Wayne Parks & Rec                      Ft. Wayne, Indiana  
August 29        California Expo & State Fair            Sacramento, California  
September 6           Army Concert Tour Series         Ft. Benning, Georgia                     

http://www.grandfunkrailroad.com

Jethro Tull Celebrates 40th Anniversary!



The 40th Anniversary of Jethro Tull is upon us this year--2008.  The group, which is made up of frontman/flutist/guitarist Ian Anderson, guitarist Martin Barre, drummer Doane Perry, keyboardist John O'Hara, and bassist David Goodier is in the midst of a variety of tourdates that include Europe, the UK, the Middle East and North America.....

Anderson says the group will choose its set list, "to a large extent from the first few albums but with a some representative songs from the '80s and the '90s, too. Songs and tunes which defined the early Jethro Tull from blues band to eclectic, pre-prog inventiveness."

But he says that this year he plans "to visit a few less places than last year. I already have some time set aside for studio work and lazing about in the garden."

The 90 shows between April and December, with which will include eleven in the United States, will be updated on the band's web site, www.jethrotull.com.

While there are no new recordings available in 2008, there are a few historical releases scheduled over the next months, including a live DVD collection of perfomances in Germany, a newly produced DVD documentary and history of Jethro Tull, which Anderson says will feature the contributions of most past band members, friends and associates as well as live performances from a multitude of sources over the years.  Contributions include reference information from many fans and liner notes from the group's original basssist Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond. The artwork features a painting by Jeffrey depicting Blackpool, the town where Anderson, Hammond, drummer Barriemore Barlow and keyboard-player John Evan, formed a band in 1964.

On June 10, Capitol/EMI Records is re-releasing the group's first album, THIS WAS as a 2-CD and digital release of a remastered and expanded Collectors' Edition of the Tull's 1968 debut album, This Was. This release presents, for the first time on CD, the album’s original mono mix as well as a new stereo mix of the album. Also featured are nine related 1968 recordings for John Peel’s BBC Radio program, Top Gear, plus four rare 1968 UK singles: Sunshine Day, Song For John Gee, Love Story and A Christmas Song. The commemorative package includes 35 tracks in all, as well as package notes and anecdotes from Jethro Tull’s members.

On May 20, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Jethro Tull’s Jack In The Green:  Live In Germany, an enticing DVD compendium of in-concert rarities [running time:  96 minutes] spanning the years 1970 to 1993.  

Jethro Tull have carved out a musical niche all their own with a career that has spanned over three decades. Selling over sixty million albums including Aqualung, Thick As a Brick and Stand Up; albums which have offered up Classic Rock radio staples Locomotive Breath and Aqualung. The band has played over 2500 concerts around the world and helped define a unique blend of acoustic and electric music that draws influences from the world's music, including Asian, Jazz, Classical and Folk.

As live performers, Jethro Tull are unparalleled. Famous for instrumental virtuosity and theatrical flair, Jethro Tull live is an event that welcomes longtime fans and new converts alike.

http://www.jethrotull.com

JAY AND THE AMERICANS TOURDATES

 Jay and the Americans are:  Jay Reincke, Marty Sanders, Howie Kane and Sandy Yaguda.  The group has a lot of tourdates over the next several months, including a Concerts At Sea Oldies Cruise in the Caribbean from January 17 through the 24, 2009.  I would love to see this event covered in some of the travel magazines.  If you’re inspired, please drop me a note and I’ll hook you up with the booking person for this cruise.

Meantime, here are the group’s scheduled dates, so far, between now and the end of the year:

May 14        Lilac Festival                    Rochester, NY
May 24             The Cannery Casino & Hotel               Las Vegas, NV
June 21          Autism Speaks - A Benefit Concert    Bronxville, NY
For tickets - www.FrainaPalooza.com
June 25             Forest Park                    Woodhaven NY
June 26            Stearns Square                    Springfield, MA
June 27            Boulton Center For The Performing Arts
Bay Shore, NY
June 28          Rams Head On Stage              Annapolis, MD
July 13             Richard Nader's Rock & Roll        Saugerties, NY
July 18           Lake Zurich Alpine Fest            Lake Zurich, IL
July 19 & 20      Milwaukee Summerfest Fairgrounds
Milwaukee, WI
July 26         BB King Blues Club                New York, NY
July 27         Jack Devito Memorial Park            Yorktown, NY
July 29,         Erie County Fair                Hamburg, NY
August 1         Kentucky Fair Expo Center        Louisville, KY
August 2        Northbrook Days Festival            Northbrook, IL
August 9        Vocal Group Hall Of Fame            Sharon, PA
August 13       Town Center                    Bensenville, IL
For tickets - www.bensenville.il.us/DocumentView.asp?DID=254
August 14     Summer Concert Series            Massillon, OH
September 13     Queens College                Flushing, NY
October 23    McPhillips St. Station Casino        Winnipeg, MB, Canada
October 24    Dakota Dunes Casino            Saskatoon, SK, Canada
October 25    Deerfoot Inn & Casino            Calgary, AB, Canada
October 26    Century Casino Showroom        Edmonton, AB, Canada
November 1    La Renaissance Banquet House        East Windsor, CT
December 6    Paramount Theatre                Middletown, NY
December 7    Kirby Center                    Wilkes Barre, PA
December 13    State Theatre                    Easton, PA
December 14    Symphony Hall                    Springfield, MA
NEW YEAR’S EVE:  Cerritos Center                Cerritos, CA
 
 http://www.jayandtheamericans.net

BRUCE KULICK'S KKB

PLEASE NOTE: CONTACT: Michael Edwards 
Michael’s e-mail is:  mikeenc@nc.rr.com
 

BRUCE KULICK’S KKB
(Vintage ‘70s recording has modern appeal, and is now available)

Before Bruce Kulick became a fixture on the speed dial of legendary rockers like KISS (who proudly called him their lead
guitarist for 12 years), Meat Loaf (Kulick was a member of Meat's Bat Out Of Hell touring troupe), or Grand Funk Railroad
(with whom he has toured the country for most of the last decade)…Before he became one of the most sought after
guest musicians in the world…Before he garnered praise from press the world over as a Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp counselor to be both respected and feared…

Before all of that, Bruce Kulick was a fan of great rock music...
Cream, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, Yes, The Who...you name it, Kulick knew it.

"I always tell people, when they ask me how to get better at their instrument, that the best way to do that is find other
players in your neighborhood," says Kulick. "To that end, after I'd been playing a while, I found a guy who lived in the
next building over from me, in the Jackson Heights area of Queens, New York. His name was Mike Katz, and he was a
bass player who loved all of the same bands I did. We started jamming, and, because we already spoke the same
language musically, it was just magical. We found a drummer named Guy Bois who rounded out the picture, and we
formed a group that we envisioned as a cross between Cream and Yes."

After months of rehearsal in the Bois family basement, the band (which, although called "KKB" today never really had
an official name) entered New York's Sudden Rush recording studio in September of 1974 armed with a handful of
songs. As with many young, upstart bands, things didn't progress from there as the three members had hoped, and
eventually Kulick, Katz, and Bois went their separate ways. The reel-to-reel tape of those sessions sat gathering dust,
until a garage sale find in 2006 (a TEAC reel-to-reel player in great condition, and a steal at $35.00) lead to its rediscovery...

"I put that tape on, and I was blown away," says Kulick with a smile today. "It was like a time capsule, but at the same
time, there was such passion and fury in the music. It was funny, too, how I recognized so many elements in that tape
from almost 35 years ago that are still in my guitar playing today."

As enjoyable as it was for Bruce to journey down memory lane, it was playing the tape for friends and other musicians
that led him to consider releasing it to the public at large. "Everyone I played it for said the same thing, which is that I
needed to put this stuff out. Mike and I talked about it, and he was all for it as well, so I began the process of getting
this old tape transferred into a digital format."

While there was a bit of repair work and mastering done by Bruce and producer/engineer Jeremy Rubolino to the tape to get it up to digital standards, no overdubs or new music were recorded. The "KKB" sessions
appear on the CD exactly as they were recorded.


"Oddly enough, even though this was recorded in 1974, it's right in line with some of the more 'analog' music that's come out in the last few years...bands like Wolfmother and the White Stripes who go for that vintage sound and feel," marvels Kulick. "But, beyond all of that, I just felt, after talking to everyone who heard it, that this music still had relevance,and it stands on its own."

KKB - 1974 is available on Compact Disc directly from Bruce Kulick in a strictly limited hand-signed and numbered edition.


  http://www.kulick.net
 

CARMINE APPICE'S SLAMM "BEATS UP" NASCAR

Contact:  Anne Leighton
718-881-8183
Leightonmedia@aol.com
http://www.slammusa.com

CARMINE APPICE'S SLAMM “BEATS UP” NASCAR
SLAMM featured on ESPN/NASCAR video beats on multi million dollar race car, and plays the NASCAR garage.


Carmine Appice's new theatrical drum show SLAMM just completed filming of an action-packed promotional video, featuring the SLAMM cast 'playing' the NASCAR garage.  The video is being shown on ESPN2 before, and during NASCAR races throughout the 2008 racing season.  Appice was selected to compose a high energy, percussive NASCAR theme song, featuring such 'instruments' as air wrenches, hand grinders, wrenches and tool boxes.  The rowdy SLAMM cast then played to the theme song in the NASCAR garage, which included giving a good beating to the hood of a multi million dollar race car. “I'm glad they didn't make us pay for it” joked Appice.  The NASCAR/SLAMM video is seen by over 3 million viewers every week.

Appice's SLAMM is a dynamic, explosive, physical rock drum show.  Described as “Stomp on steroids,” Appice and four young drummers rule the stage and make rock music playing buckets, sticks, oil cans, drain pipes, even ironing boards, as well as drums. The cast of five vibrant, young guys and girls have been relentlessly coached and rehearsed by the cool, rock star veteran, creating a flawless, electrifying theatrical show.  Cast members include Zoilo Ruiz, Marcus Joseph, Veronica Bellino, Artie Dillon and Matty Alger.  SLAMM is Appice's current project, and the main focus of his considerable energy and creativity.  In existence only a few months, SLAMM has played in front of large theater and arena sized audiences, and received a wildly enthusiastic responses. “I bring everything I know to SLAMM, 30-plus years of showmanship, originality and skill, it's all in there. Everything I learned in my career about entertainment, I put into SLAMM. It's a wild ride.”

Legendary rock drummer Carmine Appice has played with such acts as Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Beck Bogert Appice and Ozzy Osbourne. He is widely considered to be one of the most accomplished showmen in rock.  He is the recipient of numerous awards including dozens of gold and platinum selling records. Carmine co-wrote such monster selling hits as “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” and “Young Turks.” He has broken new ground in every aspect of his career; as a performer, as a teacher, and as a writer, and he continues to inspire drummers and listeners throughout the world with his originality and his unwavering dedication to the art of drumming.


UPCOMING LIVE CONCERTS FROM SLAMM usa!

 June 28  2:00 PM School of Rock Festival Philadelphia, PA,  
July 30 Camp Romaca, Hinsdale, MA (Springfield Area)
 September 19  8:00 PM Sellersville Theater Sellersville, PA, PA
 September 20  Boulton Center Bay Shore, NY, NY  (two shows)
 November 22 Sky City Casino, Acoma NM

                                      ######
 

4/18/08

A HOLE IN THE HEAD To Be Featured in New York City, April 30

http://www.holeintheheadmovie.com/


The documentary A HOLE IN THE HEAD will be featured screening in the New Filmmakers Festival’s NIGHT OF FANTASY & HORROR, at the Anthology Archive, 32 Second Ave., New York City, on April 30, at 6 PM. Admission for the night is $5.  The phone number is 212-505-5181, and the web site is http://www.newfilmmakers.com.

A HOLE IN THE HEAD is a documentary, produced by filmmaker/musician/writer/cargo cult Messiah Cevin Soling about “trepanation: the process of boring a hole in the skull in order to improve one’s cranial health.”   Trepanation is used by people in the United Kingdom, the United States and the Netherlands to attain a higher level of consciousness, and was used by the ancient Egyptians, Incas and other cultures to improve brain function.  The movie presents interviews with neurosurgeons and anthropologists on the history, medicine, and beliefs of trepanation.

Soling was inspired to create A HOLE IN THE HEAD after reading a MUSICIAN magazine interview with Paul McCartney, in which the Beatles member said John Lennon suggested they both get trepanned.  Soling says, “Lennon was always on the look out for all sorts of ways to ‘expand consciousness’ and exercise demons while McCartney, who was also curious, tended to be more skeptical, as he was in this instance.”   The subject reappeared for Soling when he read Donna Kossy’s book, KOOKS, which told him that “while the practice is extremely unconventional, there might actually be some benefit.”

As Soling is intrigued by intellectual potential, and learned that skulls, dating back 10,000 years, have been found with holes drilled in them, he decided to study trepanation from prehistoric history to current times.

 A HOLE IN THE HEAD is now available for mail order as a DVD via Cevin at http://www.holeintheheadmovie.com.  This film, which was created in 1998 and broadcast on the Discovery Channel, is about “trepanation: the process of boring a hole in the skull to improve one’s mental health.”  A HOLE IN THE HEAD won the Best Documentary Award at both the Atlantic City Film Festival and the Brooklyn International Film Festival.  The DVD is $14.95 plus s&h.  
 
 


2/21/08

Carl Palmer news


For further information
Contact:  Pilato Entertainment Marketing & Media LLC
(585)454-2756

For Immediate Release

Carl Palmer has successful heart operation procedure.

Carl Palmer, drummer extraordinaire and founding member of Emerson, Lake & Palmer; Asia and The Carl Palmer Band; has recently had a successful heart operation carried out at an undisclosed hospital. Palmer, 57, had an angioplasty procedure done which is designed to prevent further narrowing of an artery in his heart by insertion of a stent.

"I am happy to say the procedure was a complete success and I am already feeling better each day" says Palmer, who is resting before beginning the Asia 2008 World Tour, set to begin in March. "This was a precautionary measure done to ensure my safety. In my case, it was as a result of a hereditary factor, and the physicians involved wanted to make sure every precaution was taken. I am very grateful for their medical expertise and care.

With the procedure behind him, Palmer is cleared once again to resume his normal work schedule, which includes tours with both ASIA and his own group, The Carl Palmer Band. Aside from its World Tour launching next month, ASIA will be releasing Phoenix, its first new studio album with the original line-up since 1983.

NOTE:  The US shows are publicized by Bruce Pilato, at
brucetune@aol.com and office number is 585-454-2756.  The band’s web site is http://www.originalasia.com .
 
ASIA’s U.S. TOUR DATES

April 4      Wilkes Barre, PA    Kirby PAC
April 5      Uncasville, CT      Mohegan Sun Casino Wolf Den
April 7      Harrisburg, PA      Sunoco Performance Theater
April 8      Alexandria, VA      The Birchmere
April 10     Collingswood, NJ    Scottish Rite Auditorium
April 12     Westbury, NY             North Fork Theatre
April 13     Peekskill, NY           Paramount Center For The Arts
April 15     Verona, NY               Turning Stone Resort & Casino
April 16     Red Bank, NJ            Count Basie Theatre
April 17     Englewood, NJ           Bergen Performing Arts Center
April 19     Cleveland, OH           House of Blues
April 20     Chicago, IL            House of Blues
April 21     Indianapolis, IN      Music Mill
April 23     Milwaukee, WI           Pabst Theater
April 26     Marksville, LA          Paragon Casino
April 27     Dallas, TX              House of Blues
April 29     Espanola NM              Big Rock Casino
April 30     Phoenix, AZ               Celebrity Theatre
May 2      Agoura Hills, CA      Canyon Club
May 3      Las Vegas, NV          House of Blues
May 4      San Juan Capistrano,CA   The Coach House
May 5       San Francisco, CA    Grand Ballroom @ The Regency Center

http://www.carlpalmer.com

Jann Klose updates

I’m having a great time working with Jann Klose, whose new pop/singer-songwriter album, REVERIE and live shows have been receiving raves from regional and internet media, plus musicians, including Rusted Root’s Michael Glabicki. Jann’s opened a few dates for him this past winter, including one in Hamburg, NY.   The two hope to share more bills together this Spring.  

Jann co-produced REVERIE with Stewart Lerman (Dar Williams, Loudon Wainwright III, Richard X. Heyman, music from the movies, “The Aviator,” “The Life Aquatic”). The album was mastered by Dominick Maita (Fall Out Boy, Plain White T's, Bryan Ferry), and is a critical favorite of independent media outlets.

These reviews share a number of patterns that focus on REVERIE’s spirit and the choice of instruments and weave of musical forms. Syracuse NEW TIMES music editor Matt Mumau wrote, "the carefree, dreamy instrumentation of (Jann's band) bassist Chris Marolf, keyboardist Lars Potteiger, percussionist Patrick Camichael and violinist Leah Potteiger create an earthy, alive musical world." Connecticut’s FAIRFIELD WEEKLY recently wrote, “Klose has the emotions of a sensitive folkie but catapults them with a voice and tone that evoke a libido-driven soul singer.”

Haley Nedderman from Poughkeepsie's Marist College paper, THE CIRCLE raved quite a bit about Jann for his "great stage presence...powerful, sensual, soulful vocals..." and that "his lyrics paint vivid, romantic imagery and evoke a dreamy, somewhat melancholy feeling in the listener, while awakening an unknown part of the soul at the same time."  ACED MAGAZINE's John Casquarelli echoed her reflection, "REVERIE is a musical masterpiece with an ensemble of easy-listening sounds that invites the listener to explore their own imagination.”  Sally A. Schwartz of DABELLY compared the album’s song, “Question of the Heart” to Ritchie Blackmore’s ballads with its “spell-binding hint in its melody….. If you like a smooth and a softer feel for a romantic evening, I highly suggest REVERIE…. It will give you that intimate feeling as if Klose were performing just for you.”

Buffalo Night Life's Ross Catalino cited Jann for "wrapping his luminous lyrics around a wealth of alluring arrangements and a montage of melodies. From the opening track ‘Beautiful Dream’ to the final cut acutely titled ‘The Beginning’ Klose takes you on his whirlwind adventure." BLOGCRITICS Jon Sobel wrote, “Jann Klose makes complex but accessible chamber pop with intelligent lyrics and contagious rhythms…..Overall, a sweet salve for troubled times.”

Other recent quotes can be found at http://www.jannklose.com/press.html.

These are upcoming shows—a lot more dates will be confirmed soon.
 
March 8     IBS Conference at Hotel Pennsylvania    New York, NY
Jann will be speaking on the Musicians Panel from 5:15 to 6:15 PM. There will be a meet-and-greet afterward. http://www.ibsradio.org IBS - college radio, TV, webcasting, podcasting, streaming, and high school radio
March 20   Thataway Cafe                 Greenwich, CT
March 28   Rockwood Music Hall          New York, NY
April 11     Tin Angel                    Philadelphia, PA
April 12   Wanda Fischer’s Hudson River Sampler, WAMC radio-Albany, NY  
April 15   Carol’s Silver Dollar      Jamestown, NY (with Stratospheerius)
April 16     Winchester                    Cleveland (with Stratospheerius)
April 17    Therese’s Greatnites      Youngstown, OH  (with Stratospheerius)
April 19      Village Idiot                Maumee, OH
(w/Stratospheerius)    
April 20    VENUE: TBA                    Ypsilanti, MI
April 27    Metropolitan Room         New York, NY
May 14         Emack & Bolios                 Roslindale, MA
June 28      Central Park                New York, NY
          
http://www.jannklose.com