Daily Dose: Hailmary – Liar

    hailmary

    Originating from one of the most isolated cities in the world, West Aussie based hard rock outfit Hailmary, are living proof that raw talent, ambition and a kick ass work ethic can pay off in today’s challenging live music landscape.

    Renowned as one the hardest working independent bands currently breaking through, their strong live performance has solidified them as one of Australia’s best emerging heavy/hard rock bands with an ever-increasing army of loyal fans.

    With hook driven vocal choruses and a pummelling backline, Hailmary blends elements of dirty ballsy hard rock with sludgy stoner riffs, a grungy bottom end tinged at times with a sexy southern swagger to create a style that is uniquely their own.

    In 2014 the momentum will continue to build as Hailmary get set to drop their first release for the year, “Navigate The Sunrise” a 5 track EP due for release on May 16 and prepare to embark on their first Australian Tour.

    The “Navigate The Sunrise Australian Tour” is a 16 date, 6 State run of shows which kicks off on Thursday May 28 in Adelaide and finishes up in Bunbury in their home State of WA on Saturday June 29 and includes spots on the Wallapalooza Festival on the Gold Coast (June 8) and at the Rock N Load Festival in Melbourne (June 21).

    Navigate The Sunrise was recorded at Vasectomy Studio in the hills of Perth, WA, engineered by Hailmary drummer Vassya Shevstov with co-production by Shevstov, Hailmary singer/songwriter Kevin Curran along term Hailmary collaborator and world renowned Producer, Jeff Tomei (Jerry Cantrell, Smashing Pumpkins, Skid Row) out of his Cock of The Walk Studio in Atlanta, USA, with mastering by Glenn Schick at GSM in Seattle, USA.

    The EP features Hailmary Members; Kevin Curran (Vocals / Guitar), Vas Shevstov (Drums / Percussion / Vocals), Todd Fishwick (Guitar / Vocals), and Ben Elphick (Guitar / Vocals).

    One of the biggest obstacles Hailmary faced in the Navigate The Sunrise campaign was that, despite searching far and wide, the band was still without a permanent bass player following the departure of Nairn McKay in mid 2013.

    Thankfully, 2 of the best 4 stringers around stepped in to fill the void with fellow West Aussie, the uber talented and world class Jon Stockman playing bass on all NTS tracks and Melbourne’s Mick Quee from legendary Australian rockers – Dead City Ruins taking on bass duties for the Tour.

    There is no doubting that 2013 was the “game-changer” year for the band following the November 2012 release and relentless touring of their debut Album “Choice Path Consequence Solution” (CPCS) which was recorded over a 2 month period at Tomei’s Studio in the US.

    The Album, which followed two previously well credentialed and WAMi Award winning EP’s “Lottery of Life” and “A Million Miles and Days” received strong national and international airplay, (traditional and online) and a stack of solid reviews and media interest particularly throughout the US, Europe and Australia and was the catalyst in Hailmary increasing their profile from that of a “local” Perth band to one with a national and indeed international profile.

    Via a successful AMRAP and AirIt application over 60 community radio stations have played songs from the debut Album with a large percentage adding to regular playlists, along with airplay from Andrew Haug on Haug Radio and national commercial airplay on Triple M with Higgo.

    The official Film Clip from the Album for the lead track “Yellow Light of Death” was exclusively launched by Heavy Mag on Feb 26, 2014 along with an international digital re-release of a deluxe version of the CPCS Album featuring acoustic renditions of both “Yellow Light of Death” and “Control Freak”. The fact that two of the heaviest songs on the Album translated well into acoustic mode is a testament to the ability of singer/songwriter Kevin Curran.

    Since setting foot on the on the iconic Espy Front bar stage in St Kilda at the inaugural Rock N Load Festival in 2012 so many doors have opened for Hailmary and they have grabbed at every opportunity since offered.

    By the end of 2013, interest in the live shows from Victorian promoters, bands and fans was such that in 18 months they had racked up over 170,000kms in air travel and completed 8 Victorian tours and 45+ Victorian shows, including Festivals – Rock N Load, Brew-Tality Fest and Rock the Bay and shared the stage with many of the top emerging Aussie rock metal and alternate acts including The Beards, Electric Mary, Sleep Parade, King of the North, EMPRA, The Deep End, MASSIVE, Gay Paris, My Left Boot, My Dynamite, Palace of the King, Bronson, Witchgrinder and Jericco.

    No wonder they are often referred to as the “The Melbourne band that lives in Perth” or that they hail from “Perbourne”.

    Hailmary are poised to take it to the next level and their 2014 tour schedule and plans to hit Europe and the UK in 2015 will certainly keep these road warriors racking up frequent flyer points and fans both nationally and internationally.

    LINKS:
    http://www.reverbnation.com/hailmaryband
    http://www.facebook.com/hailmarybandpage
    http://www.twitter.com/hailmaryband
    http://www.hailmaryband.com
    http://www.youtube.com/hailmaryband

    Tonik Slam Gets ‘Hell-A-Cold’ Featuring Kokane

    Rap and hip-hop artist Tonik Slam a.k.a., Got Loonch? has today dropped his debut solo album ‘Hell-A-Cold’ on Cakestation Records, featuring westcoast hip-hop legend Kokane and available now to listen to on Tonik Slam’s official SoundCloud page.

    ‘Hell-A-Cold’ illustrates Tonik Slam’s ‘Cold Сoast’ sound, which references the surroundings the album was recorded and mixed in – YBC (Yekaterinburg), the fourth-largest city in Russia.

    Mixed by fellow YBCer PooakaW, the album features collaborations with hook master and Guinness Book of World Records holder for most featured recording artist, Kokane. Tonik Slam and Kokane collaborate on 7 tracks for ‘Hell-A-Cold’, including features by American rapper Kurupt on tracks like, “Swimmin’ Wit Sharks” & “Heaven Ain’t My Road.”

    Tonik Slam has been performing since 2006 and has opened the stage for well-known rap artists such as ONYX, Raekwon from Wu-Tang Clan, XZIBIT and Serial Killers. His influences include 2PAC, Eminem, Snoop Dogg & Kokane, Obie Trice and G-Unit.

    Tonik Slam is currently putting the last touches on a joint album with Kokane called ‘The Kemistry,’ which is set to be released in the spring of 2015.

    ‘Hell-A-Cold’ – Tracklisting:

    1. Hella Intro Ft. Kokane, Papa Layan, Rik
    2. Too Much Ft. Kokane
    3. Need 2 E.A.T. Ft. SUN
    4. Swimmin’ Wit Sharks Ft. Kokane, Kurupt
    5. I’m The Man Ft. Judah Christ, VandiT, G.Wood
    6. Queen of Morphine Ft. Kokane
    7. Welcome 2 the Ant Hill Ft. Jay Wat, Kristina K
    8. It’s Been a Long Mission Ft. Sun
    9. Young Man Ft. Chauncey Maynor
    10. Loaded Ft. Judah Christ, Kokane
    11. Of Broken Dreams
    12. Heaven Ain’t My Road Ft. Kurupt, Young Dub
    13. Hell of It Ft. Jay Wat, Kokane
    14. International Talk Ft. Judah Christ, Jay Wat, VandiT
    15. Now I Know Ft. Kristina K
    16. On My Plane Ft. Jay Wat, Judah Christ, Kristina K
    17. From YBC to LA Ft. Kristina, Kokane

    For more information, visit:
    Twitter: http://twitter.com/tonikslam
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tonikslam

    Naylor’s Notes: The Prolific

    The Prolific

    The energy flows, as The Prolific start to glow. No matter how big, or small the venue, together they are bound to rock your souls.  Check out what vocalist Matthew Knox had to say during this interview featuring, “The Prolific.”

    Where are you originally from?
    Each of us has been in Los Angeles for a while now. I grew up in Camarillo, CA.

    When did you start performing music?
    At 16 I played my guitar at parties, on the street, in coffee shops, & at bus and train stops. The rest of the band were musicians at conception and just needed to get instruments.

    Which instruments do you play?
    I play a few instruments such as guitar, bass, and keyboards.  I’d rather sing because people would much rather let me get away with it.  Matt, the guitarist, plays guitar, bass, and keys. Murv plays bass, guitar, keyboards, and probably a few hundred other instruments. Danny plays drums, and will probably use other instruments for drumming equipment, so it’s best to just let him drum.

    Describe your music interests and abilities.

    “A riff, a melody, and a story to tell.”

    I love music of all types, but I always return to the basics. I’ll also go to other genres for inspiration.  My passion is to find inspiration, and echo it in somehow. My ability is to copy horribly, create intensely, and steal unconsciously. I’m not quite sure if that’s ability, or weakness.

    What famous musicians inspire you?
    Any innovator of any genre inspires me. If they were the first, I’d want to know. Did something like them exist before? Then I’d want to know what it was. I can list all the bands that people are used to hearing, but I always get new inspiration from finding out who inspired them like Sister Rosetta, bringing the proto-rock n roll. The source is the innovator.

    What is some of your best musical memories?
    I remember my first rock gig was playing in some garage with a friend at the time.  Our instruments were pots, pans, and buckets.  I think the crowd thought we were roadies for the band of the night, but we were the band! Another time I remember playing at a coffee shop and people really responding to it. It felt like heaven and there was something wonderful about saying everything I wanted to say, and it being accepted because it had a melody to it, and some rhythm behind it. It goes a long way as a song. I remember liking to make people happy with that. As a rock band I think it did the opposite, and I liked that too.

    What public events do you have coming up?
    We have an album, the first one actually, coming out next month. There will also be a special edition version to buy with 2 parts. We have a short film to accompany the album and an experimental app as well. We will be taping a performance next month, and then playing out starting in February or before.

    What would you say to beginners to the industry, who are nervous?
    You make the rules for you. Everyone will tell you what to do, and they are probably wrong. Decide on who you are making the music for. You’ll save yourself a lot of time if you do that.

    “Advice, and a couple of dollars will buy you a cup of coffee.”

    How do you balance your music with your family and friends?
    I don’t … That’s a long story though, and that needs to change.

    Where can we follow your career at?
    At all the usual and unusual social sites and places you can buy music, etc.

    Do you get nervous before a performance?
    Yes, and that’s a good thing. The nervous energy is the best fuel for a good show.

    Do you attend jam sessions?
    I have been to some amazing jam sessions. I’ve been involved at times too. When everything clicks you are in another world.

    Is your family musical?
    My father was a songwriter. Never really “made it” as they say, but he still writes great songs. My great grand aunt was in vaudeville.

    How do you handle mistakes during a performance?

    Miles Davis said, “There Are No Mistakes.”

    He had obviously never seen one of my shows.

    I try to use that mistake, and build from it. Like if you bring in a wrong word, note, or beat, you use that to make something new. A lot of times that’s what makes a good show, a new song, or an inspiration for a new direction. Sometimes you have no choice! If you fight that then it makes it more of a disaster. Just go with it.

    What are your thoughts on Another Destiny Project?
    Love the idea of a global community of artists working together for a common goal in the form of an album or a song. I think Peter really has a good idea there. I think this day and age needs more people working together in art, and communication.

    How do you feel about working with artists from around the globe?
    It is inspiring, and I want to contribute more to that. Hopefully one song will have many artists – just like a film has a long list of people from everywhere. I think a song can have the same level of production.

     

    About Johnny Naylor:
    author-naylor-smJohnny Naylor is the founder and owner of 1st Shot Music and a feature writer for Jammerzine. His work can also be found on 1st Shot Music and Naylor’s Notes. You can also get his latest updates on his facebook page.

     

     

    Daily Dose: The Watanabes – Drench You in the Sun

    thewatanabesdailydose

    The Watanabes are an international indie pop band performing and recording in Tokyo. They enjoy drinking banana juice together and are keen students of Ikebana. The band began life in the orange-laden prefecture of Ehime, and named themselves Watanabe in tribute to the warm and friendly people of the region, whilst also alluding to British indie favourites The Smiths. Three years later, they packed up and shifted to Tokyo in search of new inspiration and regular trains.

    In February 2011 The Watanabes released their second album ‘You’re Dancing I’m Absorbed’ on Manchester based label BabyBoom Records. Recorded under the wise Glaswegian eye of music producer David Naughton (Belle and Sebastian, Teenage Fan club, Mojave 3) it features guest appearances from American folk pop singer Kate Sikora, and British indie Godfather Nick Duffy of The Lilac Time. Questions, compliments, bras and knickers to thewatanabes@gmail.com

    LINKS:
    http://www.thewatanabes.com/
    http://twitter.com/TheWatanabes
    http://www.facebook.com/thewatanabes

    ACIDIC Announces Pacific Northwest Mini-Tour

    Fresh off America’s longest running premiere music festival Vans Warped Tour and an intensely packed sold out Troubadour show, Los Angeles based alternative rock band ACIDIC will be going on a mini tour in the Pacific

    Northwest this November as follows:

    • Thursday, November 20 The Music Corner Spokane, WA
    • Thursday, November 20 The Big Dipper Spokane, WA
    • Friday, November 21 The Third Wheel Lewiston, ID
    • Saturday, November 22 The Do Bar Great Falls, MT

    The Dallas Observer listed ACIDIC as one of “The 10 Bands to Catch at Vans Warped Tour.” The San Antonio Current said ACIDIC was one of “The 5 Can’t Miss Acts at Warped Tour.”

    In 2013, ACIDIC toured with Candlebox, Fuel, Warner Drive, Alien Ant Farm, Marcy Playground, Filter, Hawthorne Heights, The Higher and Trapt. In 2014, they headlined the “Electric Cool-aid ACIDIC Tour” that rocked the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest.

    ABOUT ACIDIC:
    ACIDIC’s fourth full-length 10-track album Copper Man, produced by multi-platinum award-winner John Ryan of Chicago Kid Productions (Styx, Santana, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Allman Brothers), earned them a distribution deal with SONY/RED via MegaForce Records. Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx named both the title track and “Drive Thru” “Sixx Picks of the Week” on his syndicated radio “Side Show.” Meanwhile, the hilarious, jawdroppingly-insane “Copper Man” video has over 1,000,000 views on Youtube! (http://www.youtube.com/theacidicband )

    Critical raves continue to pour in for ACIDIC on CD and onstage.

    BLUERAIL.com:“Frontman Michael Gossard is a force of nature, connecting to his audience and his band mates in ways that make an ACIDIC show highly electrifying.”

    RUKUS magazine: “These guys aren’t afraid to rock out. Gossard can really wail with his vocal at times and the band is full of energy. They move all over the stage, enjoying every minute of every song they play.”

    PERFORMER magazine: “Straight from the get go, ACIDIC brings forth its frenetic energy and passionate sound in waves of indie alternative delight. This band brings the goods, with personality and flair unmatched in many West Coast bands.“

    TREASURES Stream ‘Home’ – First New Material From ‘Alive’ EP

    Ahead of weekend tour dates with friends in Iris that commence tomorrow (21st November), Basingstoke alt-rockers Treasures are pleased to be sharing the first new material taken from their forthcoming EP ‘Alive’ set for release on 26th January 2015.

    Much of their material deals with the camaraderie to be found through a shared love of music and the escapism it can afford for the young and disaffected of the UK’s burn out regional towns, where a few days on the road with your friends can make the grind of everyday life in Cameron’s crumbling Britain seem a million miles away, as front man Nick Beeney pleads on opening track ‘Home’:

    “Take me home, I cannot wait to leave this town, it’s not where I belong, away from you I’m standing tall. I don’t regret that bridge I’ve built, I don’t regret the pain and guilt, but I’m not alone.”

    Originally formed early 2012 by bassist John Adam and vocalist Nick Beeney, joined by Jed Dewsbury (drums), Sam Page (guitar) and Sam Veel (guitar), the band spent their formative months blowing the local music scene away and their competition out of the water, soon building a solid reputation for their polished live shows.

    Tracklist:

    1. Home
    2. Our Friends, Our Enemies
    3. Do What I Want
    4. The Waiting Game
    5. Alive

    Treasures are now ready to make a break for something bigger than their roots, with their debut EP ‘Alive’ recorded in June 2014 with Neil Kennedy of The Ranch Production House. An integral part of their unique sound are Beeney’s distinctive and guttural vocals; reminiscent of Alexisonfire-era Dallas Green they teeter precariously on top of a seething, angsty mass of Thursday-influenced riffs, whilst gang vocals borrowed from the punk and hardcore scene punctuate melody-heavy choruses the likes of which have seen a host of UK bands rising quickly to the forefront of the pack.

    November UK Tour Dates:
    (with support from Iris)
    21st Scream Lounge – Croydon
    22nd Face Bar – Reading
    23rd Static Bar – Swansea

    LINKS:
    http://www.thisistreasures.com
    http://www.facebook.com/TreasuresUK
    http://www.twitter.com/treasuresmusic

    Daily Dose: Nikolas P – Before We Met

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    Nikolas P aka Nicholas Perea has been singing since the age of eight and writing music for over ten years. He has several Albums out through Cdbaby. All music is available through Itunes and all of the other popular download sites. He currently has been doing live shows throughout the Southwest (New Mexico, Colorado, Texas, Arizona and California) and sings everything from country and oldies to both New and Old school Rnb. If you get a chance come out and watch sometime! All performing info is updated pretty regularly on this page. Thanks and god bless.

    LINKS:
    http://www.reverbnation.com/artist_2355566
    http://www.facebook.com/nikolasp505
    http://nikolasp505.tripod.com/
    http://www.rhapsody.com/#artist/nikolas-p
    http://twitter.com/nikolasp505

    Majera Set to Release ‘Tomorrow Never Was’

    Over the last 2 and a ½ years, in quick succession, Solarstone’s Touchstone Recordings have delivered some 30 DJ-champed singles outings to the scene. In the summer of 2014 that was crowned by the release of the label’s debut compilation album – the Walsh & McAuley mixed ‘Touchstone Recordings Vol. 1’. Now Solarstone is delighted to deliver another next-step in the label’s progression. ‘Tomorrow Never Was’ marks the first artist album release in Touchstone’s compact yet illustrious history and sees Engin ‘Majera’ Ogutveren deliver an 11-track-strong body of music to the label’s door.

    The Australian’s most recent EP release ‘Till We Meet Again’/’Remember When’ drew a pantheon of heavyweight spinning support, lit up the Beatport chart, generated a stellar fan reaction & bagged a 9/10 DJ Mag UK Single of Month review.

    With his leitmotif of wistfully, enigmatically titled (and sounding) tracks, Melbourne’s Majera now cultivates that singles success into a trance/progressive/trance-progressive tipped long-player. ‘Tomorrow Never Was’ is an album that will enrapture on first listen, but through its endless repeat-listen intricacy has all the makings of a minor classic in its own right.

    Majera – Tomorrow Never Was – Release Date December 1st 2014
    Pre-order through iTunes here: http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/tomorrow-never-was/id937274967

    Throughout its 11 original tracks, 3 bonus remixes and close to 2 hours of soundcraft, ‘Tomorrow’ Never Was’ takes its musical cues from the proverbial North, South, East & West of trance music.

    The album begins in the 100bpm-ish lounge-core realm, with atmosphere-inducing tracks like the lilting ‘Find Your Way’, the deeper sonic prowl of ‘Nothing Is Forever’ & ‘Before You Go’s glacially cool ether. Traversing into club mode, it hikes the progressive foothills with the otherworldly catchment of ‘Remember When’. ‘Drawn To Depth’ and ‘Able To Forget’ meanwhile have the album dipping into ravines that foreshadow altogether darker sonic matter.

    Boxing clever with its styles, ‘Tomorrow’ also delivers no small amount of floor stridence, exemplified by the tech-trance thrust of ‘Te Echo De Menos’ and the starkly bleeping tubular haunt of ‘Enola’s Chorus’. Latterly it scales loftily uplifting heights with tracks like ‘No Turning Back’, the album’s spiritually anthemic title track and ‘Till We Meet Again’ (a “chest swelling” number said DJ Mag, that was “goddamn lump-in-the-throat big ‘n’ gorgeous!”).

    Tracklist:

    1. Find Your Way
    2. Nothing Is Forever
    3. Remember When
    4. Able To Forget
    5. Drawn To Depth
    6. Enola’s Chorus
    7. Te Echo De Menos
    8. Till We Meet Again
    9. Tomorrow Never Was
    10. No Turning Back
    11. Before You Go

    Bonus Tracks:

    1. Velvet Sun (Moonsouls Remix)
    2. Nothing Is Forever (Matt Bukovski Remix)
    3. Te Echo De Menos (Walsh & McAuley Remix)

    More about Majera
    Born October 13, 1988 in Melbourne, Australia, Engin Ogutveren has long been passionate about music. By the age of eight he was playing the guitar, from which the keyboard naturally followed. As music dominated his life evermore, his passion for the electronic variety took over and soon he realized that DJing and production would be his chosen path.

    Majera’s first steps in the studio began at the tender age of 14, and by his 17th birthday he was signed to the then Solarstone owned Deep Blue Recordings. ‘Velvet Sun’ was remixed by trance heavyweights Aly & Fila, with the record receiving widespread support across the globe from acts such as Armin Van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Super8 & Tab, Sean Tyas and was voted top 150 trance tunes of the year.

    His melodies are consistently haunting, deep and persuasive; a mixture of gentle rhythms and natural sounds, which have proved to have become his signature trademark. His follow up productions’ once again took the interest of ‘Solaris recordings’ owner, Solarstone with the ‘Believe EP’ featured on numerous compilations and receiving heavy support by such notable trance artists as Solarstone, Aly & Fila, Marcus Schossow, Mike Shiver, Airwave, Thrillseekers and other leading-light DJs. Solartone’s growing love for Majera’s work lead to the man himself requesting a Majera remix of Solarstone’s very own ‘Solarcoaster’ in 2010

    http://www.majera.com.au
    http://www.facebook.com/majeramusicofficial
    http://www.soundcloud.com/majera

    http://www.touchstonerecordings.com
    http://www.blackholerecordings.com
    http://www.soundcloud.com/blackholerecordings

    Daily Dose: Rayne – Opportunity For Progress

    Rayne_Complex_By_Design_artwork

    This is the must-see unsigned band of the decade! They are Rayne – four times Battle of the bands winners, runners up at the 02 Live & Unsigned final and on the verge of becoming something epic in the UK and beyond. The rock three piece from Sunderland, who grew up together and have worked hard around the local circuit are unmatched in their ability to create anthemic songs, mesmerising drums and addictive guitar sounds all their own.

    Their debut album ‘The New enlightenment’ is available to buy on iTunes and you will not be disappointed. In fact it will fast become one of, if not your favourite album of all time! This is only eclipsed by how sensational Rayne play live.

    Being besotted with the album, I didn’t dare believe the live version could do it justice, but the live experience is even better! The loops and samples, genuine talent of all three members and stop you dead in your tracks’ lead vocal, make a Rayne gig something truly special. I challenge you not to become a super fan after you’ve seen them and to start off by checking out the comments on the album downloads at iTunes.

    LINKS:
    http://www.facebook.com/rayneofficial
    http://www.myspace.com/official-rayne
    http://www.twitter.com/Officialrayne
    http://soundcloud.com/raynemusic

    Valleys Releases New Single ‘Mountains Meet Oceans’

    North Carolina seven piece metal outfit Valleys has released the first material with their new lineup. After the band released their 2013 debut EP, entitled Reborn, they went through several lineup changes before landing on the current lineup of Mikey Clement (screamer), Jayson Hall (singer), Robert Riggle (guitarist), Brandon Scurlark (guitarist), Kyle Szaro (guitarist), Brandon Clement (bassist), and Robert Meikle (drummer). That lineup went into the studio to record with the acclaimed Kevin Newland (Beyond The Shore, Memphis May Fire, The Word Alive, Erra). That studio time brought along the new single, entitled “Mountains Meet Oceans,” that was just released to the eagerly awaiting fans. With the band newly signed to Brace Yourself Management, 2015 looks to be their breakout year with regional touring and the promise of new music for listeners.

    About Valleys:
    Valleys started in the spring of 2013, and quickly went on to open for bands such as Motionless In White, For The Fallen Dreams, Like Moths To Flames, Sirens & Sailors, Stick To Your Guns, Counterparts, Hundredth, and Terror while molding through a few line-up changes. The band’s current formation includes seven members that range from original members Brandon Clement (bassist) and Mikey Clement (screamer), to newer members Robert Riggle (guitarist) and Robert Meikle (drummer), to the recently recruited Jayson Hall (singer), Brandon Scurlark (guitarist) and Kyle Szaro (guitarist).

    Starting 2014, with the original members already having their seven song EP, entitled Reborn, out, new members joining, a few good shows under the belt, and a fan base which had been gradually expanding from the start, they went to work on their take over 2015. From writing new material to honing in on their social networking skills, their goals were visibly on the horizon. Signing with Brace Yourself Management was a big step in the right direction, with what they had to offer, it was just the start for them.

    LINKS:
    http://facebook.com/valleysnc
    http://valleysnc.bandcamp.com/track/mountains-meet-oceans

    Amethyst Releases New Single off Forthcoming ‘Dreamwalker’ EP

    After releasing their debut EP, entitled The Depth Of Choice, and performing at the 2014 edition of the South By So What?! Festival, Dallas metalcore outfit Amethyst has parlayed their quickly growing fanbase into a brand new single and a management deal. The new single, entitled “Silence,” is the first off the band’s forthcoming sophomore EP entitled Dreamwalker. The single showcases the band’s trademark blend of heavy rhythms and haunting guitar melodies that has resulted in an explosive fan base that includes fans in all fifty states and over forty other countries. That fanbase also helped the band secure a management deal with The Sights Set North Agency, which is owned by It Lies Within’s vocalist Zach Main, and endorsement deals with Whole Hearted Clothing and AfterShock Designs. All of this within fifteen months of forming, the band is skyrocketing up the ladder and will soon be a household name as they continue to tour into 2015 building off their two 2014 headlining runs. Fans can also expect the yet to be scheduled Dreamwalker EP in 2015.

    About Amethyst:
    Amethyst is a metalcore band from Dallas, TX formed in August of 2013. Parlaying the individual members success in previous bands, Amethyst released their first single, “The Captivated,” in September following it up with the full EP, The Depth of Choice, the next month. Amethyst’s blend of heavy rhythms and haunting guitar melodies has resulted in an explosive fan base including fans in all fifty states and over forty other countries. Lights, lasers and fog accent their fully choreographed stage performances. Amethyst has provided support for touring acts throughout north Texas, performed at the South By So WHAT?! music festival and has completed two headlining tours in 2014. The culmination of their Tour Your Heart Out 2014 tour, was the release of their third single, “Wastelands.” Their second EP, Dreamwalker, is currently in production and the first single “Silence” has been released to rave reviews. Amethyst is endorsed by Whole Hearted Clothing and AfterShock Designs Custom Guitar Cabinets.

    LINKS
    http://www.amethystmetal.com
    http://www.facebook.com/amethystmetal
    http://twitter.com/amethystTX

    First Listen: Milton Star – Salvation

    Milton Star

    miltonstar

    Milton Star are Alan Wyllie and Graeme Currie who write and record their unique blend of indie and dark country in a converted church in darkest Fife. Each of their tracks is drenched in atmosphere – think Velvet Underground meets vintage Glen Campbell via Rick Rubin collaborating on the next David Lynch movie or soundtracking the latest HBO crime drama…

    Alan and Graeme’s collaborations date back through many incarnations of live bands to the early days of post punk and a band called Thursdays who were signed to Fast Records. After some years spent out of the music scene, they came back together in 2010, reinvigorated by a mutual dissatisfaction for what they describe as a “mostly insipid modern music scene”, picking up the gauntlet to produce sweet structured melodies carried by an expansive tremolo wall of sound and a dark soul.

    With shades of Soulsavers and Mark Lanegan evident, Milton Star’s debut single ‘Salvation’ is the perfect marriage between brooding vocals and shimmering guitars underpinned by a driving beat.

    LINKS:
    http://soundcloud.com/miltonstar
    http://www.facebook.com/miltonstar
    http://twitter.com/miltonstarmusic
    http://vimeo.com/channels/miltonstar
    http://www.youtube.com/user/bdumbdumman

    Naylor’s Notes: Alexey Soloviev

    Alexey Soloviev
    Alexey Soloviev

    The music starts out slow, and then before you realize it, you find yourself as a character of the story.  You’re not sure where it will end, but you know in your heart that the plot soon will thicken.  Then (CRASH)!!  The energy the music was building begins to pour out in what is incredible creativity.  Find out what Alexey Soloviev had to say during our interview.

    Where are you originally from?
    I’m from Krasnoyarsk city, it’s in Siberia.

    When did you start performing music?
    I started composing and playing music in 2005 when I was 20 years old. I went to music school when I was a kid, but playing the classical guitar was too boring for me. That’s why I bought my 1st electric guitar in 2005 and started practicing while watching guitar video schools of Yngwie Malmsteen, Michael Angelo Batio, Marty Friedman, Andy James, and more great Guitar gods of the shred technique.

    Which instruments do you play?
    I’ve been playing the guitar since 2005, and in 2014 I bought a midi keyboard to compose cinematic music so now I play a little keyboard too.

    Describe your music interests and abilities.
    Well, when I was 7 years old my Mom bought my very first audio cassette featuring The Queen music Collection. I didn’t know anything about Queen, or rock music during those days because I was too small for such kind of music. After listening to The Greatest Hits of Queen I had realized then that I want to dedicate my life to being a musician.

    Queen, Freddie Mercury, and Brian May were my biggest influences in music. So now music is not a part of my life, it is my life. I live with music, and each day I get up to compose a new musical composition, and to develop my composing skills. I really want to be a very good musician in what I’m doing so while working hard, I have no time to rest, and no time for the holidays, just only to celebrate Halloween, because it’s my favorite holiday of the year.

    “Hard work and passion for music are my main values in this way.”

    What famous musicians inspire you?
    There are many great musicians who give me great inspiration to go on. The main inspiration in composing cinematic music I get from Hans Zimmer, and Thomas Bergersen’s music. My guitar idol is Yngwie Malmsteen, and a big thanks to his video schools, because now I can strum my guitar strings. There are also many good composers and musicians who always give me much inspiration by their music work.

    What is some of your best musical memories?
    Well, in 2012 I made my very 1st song with Elize Ryd of Amaranthe, the song is called “Alone In The Universe” and it was my personal huge success because I’ve been dreaming for so long to make my music with European metal stars, and Elize was the 1st one. 

    Then my 2nd best musical memory was in the beginning of 2014, I had a chance to collaborate with Lindsay Schoolcraft | Cradle of Filth, and I’ve been listening to Cradle of Filth  for 14 years. It was a super great feeling to have an opportunity to work with such a great musician like Lindsay from Cradle of Filth

    Then in April of 2014 I met with Mike Terrana, when he was in Krasnoyarsk with Tarja Turunen. Then on October 23rd 2014, I met with the Cradle of Filth guys including Lindsay Schoolcraft. They were in Krasnoyarsk.  It was the best memories of my life in just 1 year. 

    What public events do you have coming up?
    Well I have several public releases that I’m working on: soon my single with Lindsay Schoolcraft – “Ministry of Saints” will be released on ITunes, I made a better orchestration for our song and added some metal feelings to it so now it sounds super great to my ears. I hope all fans of Cradle of Filth and of Lindsay Schoolcraft will like our song, then I’m going to release my song with George Rain of  the SEBASTIEN Power metal band, also in November my 1st cinematic solo album – “Cinematica” should be released by an Austrian label named, “Audio Kult,”  and I’m planning to do some releases in December featuring my metal and cinematic music.

    What would you say to beginners in the industry, who are nervous?
    Well many musicians always like to cheer up their fans and young musicians in such a way as if you want to be a good musician like us, then go for it. Don’t ever stop dreaming. Those who really work hard every day, earn their rights to be heard by the crowd. Yes we all have some economic problems in all the countries, and yes earning money by music is a real hard work, but everything is possible.

    “Don’t Ever Stop Dreaming.”

    For now you should know that the world is changing  fast, so if you want to be good at something you should try to understand which way is the best way for you, and if you want to be a metal musician, take a look around, and you will see how many metal bands are out there, and that only a few of them are great like Metallica, Manowar, Iron Maiden and so on.

    All these guys started working on their music about 30 years ago and through the hard times only now they have their names, fame, money and success. Ordinary metal music is not the best music to play because people want to listen to something really new, and I’m not talking about new metal genres of music like all of these “cores”no… Now I see people who want to hear some powerful stuff – something in the kind of Skyrim or Lord of the Rings way.  Many famous bands like Blind Guardian, Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, Nightwish, and Epica are working on their Orchestral albums.

    Yes, to have a real orchestra for your music is very expensive but you can try to do the same stuff using music libraries, so you can create some powerful orchestrations, and “mixing” metal sound with epic choirs and symphonies in your music…

    Now if you want to be an ordinary metal head with an ordinary metal sound of 2 guitars, bass, and drums go right ahead, but I warn you that it will be almost impossible to gain the attention of your audience because, people heard these songs many times. Thanks to the computer industry, and music libraries we now have a new era of music composing and songwriting processes.

    “If you try to put your music on a new level of composing, then your chances to be heard by many people are great.”

    What about cinematic music?
    In this case everything is much simpler to go after Hollywood Composers because these guys know how to rock, and they understand how to compose your music in a right cinematic way. I mean, listen to Hollywood composers and you will understand it, but do not forget to listen to AudioMachine, and Two steps from hell projects because these guys are very awesome too!!!

    “They offer the best cinematic music in the world for movie trailers.”

    How do you balance your music with your family and friends?
    Well I got rid of ordinary, normal, and usual friends many years ago, and now have communication only with musicians or creatively talented people.

    “Ordinary people are ordinary so they will never understand you , or why you want to fly to the moon, or cross the ocean to find your true love.”

    It’s very important to surrender yourself with people who can see the best in you, and not the people who always bring you down from your dreams to their version of, “So called real life.”

    Where can we follow your career at?

    (click here) You-Tube (click here)
    (click here) Alexy Soloviev | Facebook (click here)

    Do you get nervous before a performance?
    It depends on performance, but yes.

    “We all get nervous from time to time, it’s a normal feeling.”

    Is your family musical?
    No, I’m the only idiot in my family , my mother is a doctor, and my father is a pilot.

    How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
    If I do make some mistakes, I try to improvise so the people could think that it’s a part of the show.

    So what are your thoughts on Another Destiny Project?
    Another Destiny Project
     is a really great thing for all musicians around the globe to have great collaborations with each other, and together to do something really good and great about their music.

    How do you feel about working with artists from around the globe?

    “To me, it’s like a dream come true, because it’s a real challenge.”

    You always must be good in your way of work, and to do some great music stuff with people from around the globe. It helps to understand musicians better, who are from different countries. Being able to do music with them is a super great feeling.

    About Johnny Naylor:
    author-naylor-smJohnny Naylor is the founder and owner of 1st Shot Music and a feature writer for Jammerzine. His work can also be found on 1st Shot Music and Naylor’s Notes. You can also get his latest updates on his facebook page.

     

     

     

    Jon Rundell Launches Free Download Series

    Jon Rundell
    Jon Rundell

    Following on from his acclaimed ‘Animatronics’ and ‘Cybernetics’ EP releases earlier this year, Jon Rundell returns to present a very generous series of weekly free downloads on his official SoundCloud and YouTube pages courtesy of his very own Etch Recordings. The tracks will be a mixture of House, Tech House and Techno.

    Etch has been set-up by Jon to exclusively showcase his own sounds and has enjoyed numerous well-received EP releases such as Multichange, Technocrat, Fifth Generation and Hammer.

    Etch Free Downloads kicks off with four original Tech House stormers titled ‘Feel The Beat’, ‘Get Your Freak’, ‘Vibe’ and ‘Jive’. Each track reflects Jon’s unrivalled experience and ability to produce body-moving records.

    ‘Feel The Beat’ gets straight to business, throwing out deep, rolling low frequency grooves, high-energy beats and hypnotic percussive hits. The filtered vocal line “Feel The Beat” repeats in the background, giving the track a gritty no nonsense vibe. ‘Feel The Beat’ is definitely one that should find it’s way into your playlist for late night sets.

    Next on the list is ‘Get Your Freak’, an effortless tribal flow from start to finish. Percussive hits echo scenes from a South American carnival whilst the vocal line “Your love…Get your freak on” draws you right in.

    ‘Vibe’ a driving Techno rocker, combines spacious stabs and whopping kick drums with a heavy rolling bassline. Cutting through at the edges are rapid cymbals that work alongside the hard-hitting percussion to deliver an intense workout throughout the track.

    Last up is ‘Jive’, a dark Techno groover that pushes out low-end progressions and assertive beats alongside a succession of rotating rhythms that flow all through the track. ‘Jive’ bobs and weaves whilst it hypnotises you to move your feet and boasts an intelligent use of effects.

    Etch Free Downloads is now available to download free via Jon Rundell’s official SoundCloud and YouTube pages with a new edition coming each Wednesday.

    • Intec co-leader Jon Rundell to release a series of free downloads every Wednesday throughout November and December via his official Soundcloud and YouTube pages HERE & HERE!
    • Every week two new tracks will be available to download for free.
    • Promotion kicks off with a double helping (four tracks) of Tech-House stomers entitled ‘Feel The Beat’, ‘Get Your Freak’, ‘Vibe’ and ‘Jive’.
    • Jon’s previous releases include appearances on Intec, Etch, Black Octopus and Shis Music amongst many others.

    Follow Jon Rundell on SoundCloud & subscribe to his official YouTube page HERE to automatically receive the free weekly updates.

    FIND JON RUNDELL ONLINE:
    http://jonrundell.tumblr.com
    http://www.facebook.com/jonrundelldj
    http://soundcloud.com/jon-rundell
    http://twitter.com/Jon_Rundell
    http://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/jonrundell

    Daily Dose: Vital Breath – It’s Just A Dream

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    Formed in 2011, Vital Breath is an alternative rock band. Composed of Francois Brisk ( drums) also played in Virus IV, Dyslesia, Sylvain De Nicola (guitar) also played in Blackness, Dyslesia, Kemet, Christophe Babin ( bass guitar) also played in Headline, Eradicate, Virus IV, Rudy Robert, and Jérôme Ponsolle ( lead singer and guitar).

    Vital breath is made of experimented musicians.

    The music of Vital breath is an ingenious mix between metal, rock, pop and many other influences.

    Check out our music and take a deep Vital Breath …

    LINKS:
    http://www.vitalbreathband.com/
    http://www.facebook.com/Vitalbreath
    http://soundcloud.com/vitalbreath
    http://www.youtube.com/user/vitalbreathofficial

    Musicians Play for Peace

    Make Your Own Peace
    Make Your Own Peace

    Some of the most recognized artists in the music industry are using their talents to promote peace and raise funds for charities around the world through Make Your Own Peace Foundation, an innovative social movement and non-profit organization launching November 16th at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami. With the goal of impacting one billion lives in the first year, MYOP is the first secure method for individuals to make a real impact towards world peace, allowing supporters to donate towards peace-generating causes, regardless of geography, political views or religious beliefs.

    To kick off the campaign, Eduardo Marturet, music director and conductor of the Miami Symphony Orchestra and global ambassador for Make Your Own Peace, will unveil the campaign anthem called “With A Little Help from My Friends” during the “All You Need is Love” concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Beatles arrival in America. The event will feature Beatles music performed by the Miami Symphony Orchestra as well as special performances by American Idol Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard and introducing child prodigy Haven Star Ross.

    “Just like The Beatles’ music, Make Your Own Peace’s goal is to transcend cultural and physical boundaries to spread a message about love, compassion and generosity,” said Miguel (Mike) Rodriguez, President and Founder of MYOP. “While there are many organizations raising funds for similar causes, renowned artists are investing their time with Make Your Own Peace because they understand it is a transparent organization capable of making a real and immediate impact towards peace across the globe.”

    MYOP supporters can make a difference by simply downloading music. With a minimum $5 donation, supporters are able to download music created by the world’s most renowned artists especially for Make Your Own Peace. At the time of purchase, donors can select to direct their funds to one of many causes supported by MYOP, including education, health and hunger. The first compilation of music by award winning artists will be released by Christmas.

    “We couldn’t think of a better place to launch than during the Miami Symphony Orchestra’s All You Need Is Love concert,” said Samuel Quiros, CEO of World Music Group and Chairman of Make Your Own Peace Foundation. “The Beatles are the perfect example of how music can change the world and that’s exactly what we are trying to do with MYOP.”

    Priding itself on efficient and transparent operations, all donations will be delivered directly to the cause each donor selects in real time, allowing charities to make instant use of funds. Donors will also receive news from charities about how those funds were spent.

    For more information about Make Your Own Peace, please visit www.makeyourownpeace.com.

    ABOUT WORLD MUSIC GROUP
    World Music Group was created by a team of record producers, marketing strategists and technology experts who believe that consumers should be rewarded with beautiful music from global superstars for contributing to great causes. World Music Group has created several movements across the years such as Tocando Tierra, a movement initiated in 1999 by Samuel Quiros, CEO of World Music Group, with the release of a 3 CD album with 36 tracks recorded with some of the best musicians in the world. A portion of the proceeds were donated to UNICEF to benefit Latin American children in need. With Make Your Own Peace, World Music Group will launch a modern and efficient technological platform that will allow people across the world to download very special music tracks from the most diverse talents in the world and at the same time act in favor of peace.

    Talk In Code Release New Video for Catapult

    Deriving their name from the concept that everyone relates to songs differently, each taking their own meaning or code from what they hear, Talk in Code are indie-rock with pop-synths and big choruses.

    The band has just finished a UK tour. Previously, they enjoyed support slots with Rams’ Pocket Radio, Transfer, Fiery Furnaces, Amber Run and Catfish & The Bottlemen. They released a debut single, ‘Face to Face’,on DIY label Realm Productions. This grabbed the attention of BBC Introducing, Clubcom TV, Vidzone, Propellor TV, SUB TV and, notably, featured on Imagesound compilation CDs and could be heard across hundreds of retail outfits, ‘NEXT’ included.

    They signed an international licensing deal with DO IT! Records for their debut album. Prior to the album’s release, 2 singles were launched: ‘Make it Happen’ and ‘Limitless’. ‘Make it Happen’ attracted big attention, notably from Q MUSIC, being featured as track of the day. The more pop-oriented track ‘Limitless’ has been played on over 100 stations worldwide.

    LINKS:
    http://www.talkincode.co.uk
    http://www.facebook.com/talkincode

    First Listen: Peacock Affect

     

    The music of George Holman is released under an apt moniker – his songs are strikingly beautiful yet emotionally touching; the affectation of a peacock underpinned by George’s sincerity.

    George has been writing music from his home in Exeter since he was sixteen. Influenced by Elliott Smith and The Smiths, George’s music stems from melodies that he picks on the guitar and lyrics that flow directly from his feelings.

    He explains “I don’t really know where my inspiration comes from because it comes through at random times. I write melodies down all the time, sometimes I’ll never play that song again, but here and there an idea will become a song. I draw a lot of my inspiration from nature; the trees,mthe wind, the sea…”

    As someone who has experienced emotional struggles and mental health issues, George uses music as a means of coping with them. “I think my best songs comes from a really deep and horrible place. I really don’t think I would write anything if I hadn’t suffered from any mental illness. Creating is cathartic.”

    BBC Radio 6 Music and some of the UK’s most respected music sites are praising Peacock Affect, though for George this will never be more important than his creative output. “For me, music isn’t about providing a means to become rich and famous, I just feel really good to know that people want to listen to what I create because my lyrics are deeply personal. I feel comfortable in my own skin and whether I’m in a good mood or a bad mood, I have my music.”

    Both tracks on the double A side single ‘The Heaven Smiles’ and ‘Wallflower’ see George’s beautiful vocals floated over intricate acoustic guitars, producing a sound that is utterly mesmerising.

    Live Dates:
    25th Nov: Ronnie Scott’s, London, United Kingdom

    Social Links:
    http://www.facebook.com/peacockaffect
    http://peacockaffect.tumblr.com/
    http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAs92VFFGgt5YUoHiGaIzlQ
    http://soundcloud.com/peacockaffect
    http://twitter.com/peacockaffect

    Daily Dose: Jakubi – Couch Potato

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    After releasing their first three singles online over the space of four and a half months, the lads have achieved a milestone thought impossible (and to most, unattainable) – a million plays via YouTube and Soundcloud.

    Drawing inspiration from genres as diverse as hip-hop/funk/pop/grunge-rock – the intrigue is understandable. Their ability to naturally blend each element, and above all else do it well, a feat in itself.

    Sold out shows, rave reviews, festivals, an overseas following (USA love!) and the momentous million plays – it’s pretty safe to say the future is cliché-ridden bright for Jakubi.

    What happens next?! Well, you dance. We dance. We all dance.
    ~ Official Bio

    LINKS:
    http://jakubi.com.au/
    http://www.facebook.com/JAKUBIMUSIC
    http://soundcloud.com/jakubimusic/sets/orginals
    http://www.bandsintown.com/Jakubi

    Cheryl Pineda ‘When You’re In Love’ Remix EP

    ‘When You’re In Love’ is Cheryl Pineda’s latest Remix EP, released by Basement Collective Music. This EP features five remarkable remixes by DNT (Doc “N” Tones), MDGM (Proud Problem a.k.a. Sir Micah Deep), Slavic (Peter “Slavic” Mataboge), NjHouseHead and Itchy Lemon. Each of them has a totally different take on this track, and although all five remixes are within the House genre, they all make use of different influences, sounds and grooves. In every track, Cheryl Pineda’s voice is consistently stunning, showing how a voice like hers can be so versatile that it blends perfectly within different styles.

    The EP kicks-off with DNT’s Studio Mix, which is the longest track in the EP. This remix draws a lot of influence from Chill-Out, giving it an almost jazzy feel and groove. The funky guitar riff, the bright piano chord progressions and the solid, groovy drum beat offer a perfect foundation for Cheryl Pineda’s voice to shine, highlighting her smooth vocal qualities. Doc “N” Tones has truly created a grand opening for this Remix EP of ‘When You’re In Love’.

    The second track on the EP is MDGM’s Remix. South African DJ/Producer Sir Micah Deep offers a beautiful piano arrangement on a foundation of a collective drum and percussive rhythms, a synth-driven melody and a prominent bass-line, which once again open a door for Cheryl Pineda’s voice to cut through. Contrasting DNT’s mix, this track is the shortest remix of ‘When You’re In Love’, however it sums-up all the elements for it to be a vibrant addition to the EP.

    Following MDGM’s Remix is the remix by another South African DJ/Producer, Peter “Slavic” Mataboge, better known as Slavic. This remix offers a more up-tempo alternative to the two remixes preceding it offering a harder drum groove with a tighter feel to it. The rest of the music is based in minimalism, letting Cheryl Pineda’s voice reach its full expression.

    The fourth track on the EP is a slightly slower version of the song, spinning at 122 BPM. This track was remixed by NjHouseHead, a DJ/Producer from New Jersey, who rightly so called his remix ‘When You’re In Love’ Jersey Remix. This remix offers an up-tempo feel, making use of funky organ and guitar sounds and riffs together with almost Samba-style percussive sounds and rhythms. Once again, Cheryl Pineda’s voice can be heard in a new setting and dimension, proofing the versatility of both her voice and her new track ‘When You’re In Love’.

    The EP winds up with a remix called ‘When You’re In Love’ Porto Mix by Portuguese DJ/Producer Itchy Lemon. This is a totally different remix from the ones preceding it. The straight and solid drum beat, the numerous prominent riffs contained in the track and the smart use of Cheryl Pineda’s voice make this track a really danceable adaptation of ‘When You’re In Love’, bringing to a conclusion an eclectic collection of remixes from all over the world, which are sure to be heard on dance-floors worldwide.

    LINKS:
    http://www.facebook.com/pages/Basement-Collective/177078162319186?hc_location=timeline
    http://www.twitter.com/bcollective
    http://www.facebook.com/itchy.lemon?fref=nf
    http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1430735419&fref=ts
    http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1788421597&fref=ts
    http://www.facebook.com/disocdiezzy77
    http://www.facebook.com/micahdeep?fref=ts
    http://www.youtube.com/user/BasementCollective

    Daily Dose: Luna Sopor – Candy Crush

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    Luna Sopor is an all original high energy rock band from the San Francisco Bay Area, which began as the brainchild of Jeff Janow and Troy Szabo while working together in 2008. Jeff and Troy wanted to create a Rock Band that played driving original music, and also allowed them to combine different playing styles which are derivative of their past and modern influences. Shortly thereafter Marie Szabo joined Luna Sopor as the Band’s Drummer, and Jeff, Troy, and Marie started writing songs and rehearsing together.

    The music continues to develop going forward with the addition of vocalist, Jayne D., who is a San Francisco Native and model. Erin brings a drive, attitude, and presence to the vocals that will elevate the delivery of Luna Sopor to a new level.

    Luna Sopor expertly combines the aesthetics of punk, indie and folk into a mesmeric whole that manages to sound both vintage and incredibly fresh all at the same time. Started by bassist Troy Szabo, guitar player Jeff Janow, and drummer Marie Szabo in 2008, the original sound of Luna Sopor was forged right from the start, characterized by driving guitars and backed by a frenzied yet accessible rhythm section. The Bay Area-based four piece band released its eponymously titled debut album in 2011, which was recorded at the famous Golden Gate Studio in San Francisco, and the album has received a good amount of radio airplay and critical acclaim.

    Luna Sopor is currently working on a second studio album release, which is entitled “Cobalt”, and the anticipated release date is November 15th of 2013. Luna Sopor’s sound is perpetually evolving, and many of the recent augmentations were actually driven by the comments, requests, and interactions with Luna Sopor’s fans at live shows and on Luna Sopor’s social networks. The most recent and notable enhancement, is that Luna Sopor was joined by Jayne D. on vocals, whom brings a heavy, rock present, and emotionally charged performance to Luna Sopor’s vocal structure and chorus harmonies.

    Luna Sopor is a band that knows exactly what honest, rock music should be all about: feeling good. Luna Sopor’s message is pretty simple, but it’s one heard all too infrequently these days. It is that making and listening to music should be fun and reflect the joyous things in life.

    LINKS:
    http://www.lunasopor.com/
    http://music.lunasopor.com/
    http://www.facebook.com/lunasopor
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/60594561@N05/
    http://www.reverbnation.com/lunasopor
    http://soundcloud.com/lunasopor
    http://www.jango.com/music/LUNA+SOPOR

    WORLD5 release new single “I Promise You”

    “I Promise You” is an epic ballad, a catchy melody, with the earnest singing of Grammy Award winner Pat Hunt in the song’s spotlight. The track is the forth single from their upcoming LP release.

    “I Promise You” comes hot on the heels of their popular single track, “Heartbeat Of The World”. For the album remix of the single Heartbeat Of The World, the band is offering a celebrity talent contest worldwide for all singers, amateurs and professional levels to be part of the recording, win prizes and have their own single produced by WORLD5 bass player and 4 time Grammy Award winning producer Randy Miller. WORLD5 has dedicated this celebrity talent contest as global charitable effort. WORLD5 is dedicated to using the power of popular music to produce global positive social action thru “Heartbeat of the World” to raise money for Charities, non-profits and businesses whose programs save lives and help people in need by providing education, housing, medicine, food, clean water, emergency shelter, and other services across the globe thru heartbeatoftheworld.net

    The Heartbeat of the World Music Video Contest is recognized as the phenomena of this decade as “We are the World” was for the 80s.

    “A sparkling brilliant recording, plus an awesome message” – Code Zero Radio

    “If you’re having a lousy day, put on this joyful pop/rock anthem by WORLD5 and I guarantee it’ll lift you right up.” – Skope Magazine

    Their peviously released singles , “Man Of Action”, which immediately shot to the U.S. National Top 100 Airplay Chart and “Maybe there´s A Way” will be on the upcoming LP as remixed album versions.The overarching sound of the band has at its core the songwriting principles of legends such as Toto, Billy Joel, Bruce Hornsby, Genesis, Yes, The Beatles.

    Listeners will immensely enjoy the eclectic sound and global influences of the 5 musicians: Pat Hunt – lead vocals and keyboards (Katy, TX, USA), Joe Gavito – guitars (Houston, TX, USA), Steffen Goeres – guitars, trumpet, fluegelhorn (Wellington, New Zealand), Randy Miller – bass, vocals(Houston, TX, USA), Raimund Breitfeld – drums, percussion (Gothenburgh, Sweden)

    “I Promise You” by WORLD5 is available online worldwide November 10, 2014.

    The single “I Promise You” is distributed globally by Famous Records Corp and is available at iTunes, Amazon and many other outlets for convenient purchase and download.

    LINK:
    http://www.world5music.com

    Ants Marching to The Piano Guys

    Musical YouTube sensation, The Piano Guys, have released a brand new music video from their newest studio album, Wonders; an instrumental mash-up of Dave Matthews Band’s “Ants Marching” and Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” The video can be seen here.

    Following in the huge success of “What Makes You Beautiful” (over 35 million views) and “Angels We Have Heard on High” (over 9 million views), this is the third video in which all four of them perform together. In this video, Steven, Jon, Al and Paul treat viewers to a moonlit performance on a water-surrounded stage at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre in their home state of Utah. Enhanced with fire and fog, this video is captured in only one take. An octocopter with camera in tow takes flight to capture different levels of the performance, a very detailed and difficult process to perfect.

    The Piano Guys
    Steven Sharp Nelson, Jon Schmidt, Al Van der Beek and Paul Anderson – are an American musical group who became an online sensation by way of their immensely successful series of strikingly original self-made music videos (they recently hit over 500 million views). They’ve made over 50 music videos since early 2011, including their breakout hit, an innovative multi-handed version of One Direction’s “What Makes You Beautiful” and a gorgeous reinvention of the hit song “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen. To date, the Utah-based classical-pop group have released four major label albums on Portrait/Sony Music Masterworks: Wonders, The Piano Guys, The Piano Guys 2, and a holiday album called A Family Christmas.

    Wonders features successful single/video releases from the past year such as, “Let It Go,” “Kung Fu Piano: Cello Ascends,” “Don’t You Worry Child,” and “Story of my Life.” It also includes new songs with strong familiarity – “Batman Evolution” (The Piano Guys’ take on various Batman themes over the years) and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” – as well as some original compositions by The Piano Guys.

    Sony Masterworks comprises Masterworks, Sony Classical, OKeh, Portrait, Masterworks Broadway and Flying Buddha imprints. For email updates and information please visit

    For more information on The Piano Guys and tour dates visit:
    Website: www.thepianoguys.com
    YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/ThePianoGuys/
    Twitter: http://twitter.com/pianoguys
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PianoGuys

    Austyn King To Release ‘THE GOOD MORNING EP’

    No, it’s not just another album or another ‘EP release’, but a heartfelt expression of artist and social activist Austyn King at his finest. THE GOOD MORNING EP is set for release on November 27, 2014 courtesy of GAT Music Entertainment.

    With numerous albums under his belt, Austyn King is a trailblazer in the music industry. His lyrics are unique, inclusive, eloquently written, and his eclectic musical style makes him stand out among other artist.

    THE GOOD MORNING EP, as well as other albums released by GAT Music Entertainment can be purchased at http://austynkingmusic.bandcamp.com. For all questions, media or booking request, please call Alexa Botwin with Maximize the Moment Specialty Group at 312.709.9707.