5/17/2024

Prog Artist Leon Alvarado Announces Pink Floyd Influenced New Album “The Changing Tide” Released May 31, 2024

US prog artist Leon Alvarado is excited to unveil his newest album, “The Changing Tide.” Set to release on May 31st, this highly anticipated album follows the successful EP release, which previewed two of the album's tracks; a captivating cover of Pink Floyd's “Brain Damage,” and the enchanting instrumental “Dance of The Pink Elephants.”

Alvarado explains, “The creation of 'The Changing Tide' was very much influenced by the musical heritage of Pink Floyd. We aimed to seamlessly blend their timeless formula with our unique styles to produce material that charts its own course.”

While acknowledging the influence of Pink Floyd as a foundational element, Alvarado emphasizes the infusion of his own creative perspective. “Listeners can anticipate a departure of sorts from my previous works,” he shares, “yet they'll find my hallmark keyboard textures and atmospheric nuances intricately woven throughout.”

Alvarado is joined on this musical endeavor by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, featuring bassists Tony Franklin (known for his work with Jimmy Page and Paul Rogers on The Firm) and Gary Gnaedinger, guitarists Edoardo Scordo and Damian Darlington (both renowned members of Brit Floyd), alongside Jimmy Griggers also on guitars and saxophonist John Helliwell (from Supertramp fame). Additionally, L.A. session musician Pablo Hopehayn contributes on strings. The backing vocals on Brain Damage are skillfully provided by Jeff Sanson, Liz Hall, and Linda Alvarado.

“The Changing Tide” will be available for streaming on all major platforms and will also be released on CD through Melodic Revolution Records. The physical CD promises to be a sensory delight, boasting stunning artwork within an impeccably designed package that will undoubtedly enhance any music enthusiast's collection.

About Leon Alvarado:
Leon Alvarado is a progressive rock artist known for his innovative fusion of electronic and rock music. Over the course of more than two decades, Alvarado has consistently demonstrated his ingenuity as a musician, constantly expanding the horizons of his artistic vision with each successive project. His repertoire boasts collaborations with esteemed figures in the Prog rock scene, earning him widespread acclaim and nurturing a devoted fanbase worldwide. Beyond his own musical creations, Leon frequently collaborates with bands and promoters, channeling his artistic skills into crafting fascinating album covers and promotional tour materials.

Track list:
1. THE EQUILIBRIUM OF TIME
2. A DAY OF A DIFFERENT SORT
3. A VIEW FROM A DIFFERENT ROOM
4. DANCE OF THE PINK ELEPHANTS
5. THE CHANGING TIDE.
6. BRAIN DAMAGE

Credits:
Leon Alvarado: Drums, Keyboards & Effects on all,
Bass on 5, Vocals on 6
Edoardo Scordo: Guitars on 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Tony Franklin: Bass on 1, 2, 3, 4
John Helliwell: Saxophone on 3
Pablo Hopenhayn: Violin, Viola and Cello on 1
Gary Gnaedinger: Bass, Guitar & Keyboards on 6
James Griggers: Guitar & Slide Guitar on 6
Jeff Sanson: Backing Vocals on 6
Linda Alvarado: Backing Vocals on 6
Liz Hall: Backing Vocals on 6
Produced and mixed by Leon Alvarado
Mastered by Maor Appelbaum
Design and Art Direction by Synergy Design
Label: Melodic Revolution Records

The Changing Tide” release date: May 31, 2024

For more information:
https://leonalvarado.bandcamp.com/ or follow Leon Alvarado on https://www.instagram.com/leonalvarado80/.

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

5/16/2024

Drum Legend Simon Phillips and Ex Asia’s John Payne Discuss the New Intelligent Music Project’s “Miracles Beyond” Released May 15, 2024!

The new album “Miracles Beyond” featuring members of TOTO, ex-Asia, Nazareth and others, is dedicated to Free Spirits

Intelligent Music Project continues to stand out as one of the most compelling rock projects in the music world over the last 12 years. During this time, the project has gifted their fans with 7 albums featuring the participation of world-famous, top-notch musicians, and they show no signs of slowing down.

Featuring Carl Sentance, Joseph Williams, Simon Phillips, John Payne & Ernest Tibbs!

Just a few days before the official release on May 15th of the eighth album by Intelligent Music Project titled “Miracles Beyond”, the band shared a video of John Payne (ex ASIA), Simon Phillips (TOTO/Mike Oldfield) and Ernest Tibbs (Protocol) talking about the album.

Says John Payne (Vocalist on IMP III, IV, V, VI, VII), “I feel as a part of the Intelligent Music Project family. I am proud to say that I’ve been one of the main singers of Intelligent Music Project – I’ve done many albums with this project and I want you to look out for the new album, called ‘Miracles Beyond’ – it’s coming out shortly! This project started with little seeds, and now it’s growing and growing and the players again are wonderful. I know that lyrically even though Milen, who writes all the songs, it’s not his native language, but his grasp of the English language is probably a lot better than many English and American people I know. The songs are great, it’s an interesting album, there is some pretty rocky stuff on this one, and I see influences from bands like Queen, progressive music, pop music and really deep meaning songs.”

Says Simon Phillips (Drummer on IMP II, III, IV, V, VII, VIII), “As with any project that repeats and makes more than one album, it changes. The style evolves, it becomes stronger and that is what I believe has happened with Intelligent Music Project.”

Ernest Tibbs (Bass player on IMP IV & VIII) adds, “Simon and I, we’ve been playing together for many years and Simon invited me to be a part of the project a second time. The vocal tunes are richer now, I enjoy the vocals, I enjoy the compositions, just beautiful! I would like to see the record released, so that more people can hear music like this. It’s harmonically very adventurous, and it’s still very listenable.”

Watch the promotional video: https://we.tl/t-DCcKqtjfZ7

Listen to the first single of the album “Shine for You,” to preview the musical journey that awaits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=879i-dOvKjI

Intelligent Music Project is a Bulgarian supergroup with an exceptionally international line-up, created in 2011 by Bulgarian businessman, philanthropist, and arts patron Dr. Milen Vrabevski, who is not only the project’s producer but also the composer of the band’s music and lyrics.


Dr. Milen Vrabevski

The album will be out on May 15th. Everyone will be able to order it from www.intelligent-music.com and listen to it on all musical platforms.

For more information:
Amazon: https://music.amazon.de/albums/B0CXQT3RG2
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/shine-for-you-single/1735347687
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/album/558843472
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3yg8mOoOWXgWfl07tSxEJ7
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=879i-dOvKjI&feature=youtu.be

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Melodic Rock Icons ENUFF Z’NUFF Take Us Back To Where It All Began With A Full Album Of Demos Recorded Prior To Their Debut Album!

Los Angeles, CA - Enuff Z'nuff, the revered melodic rock band hailing from the heart of Chicago, is set to unveil a treasure trove of their musical origins with the release of a captivating collection of demo recordings. These recordings, crafted prior to the band's iconic self-titled debut album, offer a raw and impassioned glimpse into the genesis of Enuff Z'nuff's illustrious career.

The forthcoming collection, entitled The 1987 Demos, showcases the band's classic lineup of Chip Z’nuff, Donnie Vie, Derek Frigo, and Vikki Foxx, exuding a fervor and authenticity that transcends even their acclaimed major label releases. Fans worldwide have long revered these early compositions, recognizing the embryonic stages of Enuff Z'nuff's signature sound. Now they get to experience these songs as never before!

Among the gems featured in this collection are early renditions of beloved classics such as the chart-topping single "Fly High Michelle," alongside anthems like "New Thing" and "I Could Never Be Without You." These early versions offer a unique perspective, capturing the essence of the band's evolution and the raw talent that propelled them to international acclaim. Check out the demo version of “New Thing,” which has been released as a single to all music platforms today!

Stream/download the single: https://orcd.co/enuffznuff_newthing1987demo

“Before we got our first record deal,” explains EZ’s founding lead vocalist Donnie Vie, “Chip and I had written and demoed at least 50 pretty good songs. It was hard to choose which ones to shop. We basically put together what we felt would be a great record and shopped it as that. Needless to say, the label loved it, so we went to work re-recording it on a grander scale (and waste $200K. Haha). I personally think we could've just had this mixed, because most of it was recorded and produced exactly the same way. The songs stand on their own, and this was the way it was done - on our own.”

Chip, who oversaw this project and composed liner notes for the album, declares  “ Here are the warts, scars, and tattoos of our labor, when it all started over 3 decades ago!”

The 1987 Demos will be available on both CD and vinyl starting on May 31! The CD version includes two bonus tracks not available anywhere else - a cover of Hendrix’s “Manic Depression” and an original song “Runaway!”

Order the CD/Vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/search?q=enuff+znuff+the+1987+demos
Pre-order/Pre-save the digital: https://orcd.co/enuffznuff_1987demos

Also be sure to catch the band performing live at select venues across the US!

May 16 - Binghamton, NY - Touch Of Texas
May 18 - Teaneck, NY - Debonair Music Hall
May 19 - Reading, PA - Reverb
May 22 - St. Louis, MO - The Golden Record
May 23 - Beaver Dam, WI - Stormy’s
May 24 - Minneapolis, MN - Cabooze
May 25 - Webster, WI - St. Croix Casino Hertel
May 28 - Parker, CO - Wild Goose Saloon
May 30 - Grapevine, TX - Glass Cactus
May 31 - San Antonio, TX - Fitzgerald’s Bar & Live Music
June 1 - Eagle Pass, TX - Cooter’s Pub
June 2 - Houston, TX - Warehouse Live Midtown
June 4 - Sarasota, FL - Big Top Brewing Company
June 12 - St. Charles, IL - Arcada Theatre
July 3 - Duluth, MN - Bayfront Festival Park

TRACK LIST:
1. New Thing
2. She Wants More
3. Fly High Michelle
4. Hot Little Summer Girl
5. In The Groove
6. Little Indian Angel
7. For Now
8. Kiss The Clown
9. I Could Never Be Without You
10. Finger On The Trigger
BONUS TRACKS [CD ONLY]
11. Runaway
12. Manic Depression

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, INC.
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Cleopatra Records Store
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

5/15/2024

Jazz Fusion Review: Keith Fiala-New Beginnings

Release Date: May 17, 2024

Label: Che Cosa Guardare

Website

When was the last time you listened to a sound jazz recording? One that had a fusion of ambient, chill, and new age mixed in? Well, it has been quite some time for this listener since I have heard a recording like Keith Fiala's New Beginnings.

"Let Go" starts things off grandly with much energy and emotion. It has a funky backbeat with an on-point rhythm section and some sharp guitar lines weaving throughout, as Keith's smooth trumpet lays down the foundation to build on. It's a great start to raise your spirits and get that blood pumping.

"She's So Sweet" is the latest track released before the full album's release on May 17th. It is sexy, smooth, and oh-so-sweet. The funky bass and guitar complement the trumpet quite nicely.

"Cityscape" hits the streets on a hot summer night. Think NYC with all the neon lights and the nightclubs full of people and music having a good time. It is nighttime in the city that never sleeps, and a musical soundtrack that keeps that energy flowing and growing. Jazz meets funk with just the right touch.

"Flow" starts with an excellent piano introduction as the trumpet slides in quickly. It is chill jazz for the easy chair on a moonlight night or a table for two in the corner with a candle burning so you can only see each other and nobody else—romance at a nice slow and easy pace. The beautiful trumpet with a prominent bass holds up the bottom end with authority and a softly touched drum for added elegance.

"Hollywood & Vine" returns to the city with different colors and attitudes. It's different than NYC. Here, we have movie stars, rock stars, and many exciting and well-to-do people. Is it a façade, or does the music make it all real? Once again, the bass is prominent, leading the way as the trumpet quickly makes its point. A synth adds some layers for a different touch, playing a more significant role as the track moves closer to its conclusion. 

"Lorena" is very different from all the previous tracks. It starts with a Latin-flavored acoustic riff as the trumpet makes its entrance beautifully, as it always does. The timing is superb, and some excellent percussion keeps the atmosphere of the serenade to the ladies intact from beginning to end. It is an instrumental love song with all the trimmings to make it memorable and picturesque. Viva Fiala!

"How Long Can I Wait" starts with many different sounds converging simultaneously. It is hectic, and Keith's smooth-as-silk trumpet tempers the enthusiasm of the activities around it. It is one of the more distinct tracks and needs your ears' clarification. For me, it was progressive jazz fusion. It may take a few listens to get it.

"MB's Groove" is a slow and passionate groove, with the trumpet, bass, and drums seemingly in sync with the same purpose: to lay it down so you can get into “your groove” while listening. There is a short burst of the keys around the midpoint as the horn takes a break and then comes back to lead the way to the close. The track is so smooth; it is quiet storm jazz at its finest.

"Beyond Infinity" starts winding towards the end of this jazz omnibus, as more funk comes your way with a super funked-up bass with a low-end sound. A pedal is being used for that unique sound. Keith's trumpet just kills it straight on through. Then jazz to infinity and beyond with a cool keyboard section more than halfway through. It has a lot of different elements blending to make it one of the more unique tracks.

"Wits End" is the end, the curtain closer to a delightful jazz fusion listen. It ends appropriately with that very funky backbeat and guitar playing a complementary role to Keith's amazing trumpet playing. Some of the horn parts sound like classic 70s jazz and an excellent guitar with its wah-wah effects. It's a trip back in time to the modern way.

This could be New Beginnings for many listeners. For this jazz lover, it was a welcome return and reminder of how much I love jazz fusion and artists who are willing to push the boundaries of the genre, which Keith Fiala does on this recording with great success. This consistent and solid release keeps your attention from beginning to end.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

May 13, 2024

Tracks:

01. Let Go 

02. She’s So Sweet 

03. Cityscape 

04. Flow 

05. Hollywood & Vine 

06. Lorena

07. How Long Can I Wait 

08. MB’s Groove 

09. Beyond Infinity 

10. Wits End 


5/10/2024

UK Rock Legends UFO Reissue Rare 1988 EP With Vintage Live Bonus Tracks & Other Treasures!

Los Angeles, CA - UFO fans, rejoice! The legendary British rock band's rare 1988 EP, Ain't Misbehavin', is making a triumphant return in a Deluxe Bonus Track Edition reissue, promising a treasure trove of sonic delights for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Recorded in the wake of the band's electrifying 1987 tour in support of their '85 album Misdemeanor, this EP marked the final collaboration between UFO frontman Phil Mogg and the virtuosic Japanese-born guitarist Atomik Tommy M.

Much like its predecessor, Ain't Misbehavin' goes full throttle from beginning to end with Mogg matching his vocal prowess to the pyrotechnic playing of guitarist Tommy alongside superstar bassist Paul Gray (The Damned) and former Magnum drummer Jim Simpson. The brilliant lead off track, “Between A Rock And A Hard Place,” ranks up there with some of the band’s best rockers. Check out this special digital single release of the track below!

Stream/download the single: https://orcd.co/ufo_betweenarockandahardplace

This deluxe reissue not only reintroduces the original EP in all its glory but also treats fans to a selection of bonus tracks, including vintage live performances and other rarities that showcase UFO's dynamic live energy and musical evolution. The artwork has been revamped with an even sexier front cover image, and the whole thing is being released on all formats this June 14 so order your copy today!

Order the CD/Vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/search?q=ufo+ain%27t+misbehavin

Stream/download the digital: https://orcd.co/ufo_aintmisbehavin


TRACK LIST:
1. Between A Rock & A Hard Place
2. Another Saturday Night
3. At War With The World
4. Hunger In The Night
5. Easy Money
6. Rock Boyz, Rock
7. Lonely Cities (Of The Heart)
BONUS TRACKS
8. Only You Can Rock Me (Live In Milwaukee 1986)
9. The Chase (Live In Milwaukee 1986)
10. Night Run (Live In Milwaukee 1986)
11. Doctor Doctor (Live In Milwaukee 1986)
12. Between A Rock & A Hard Place (Instrumental Version)

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com


CLEOPATRA RECORDS, INC.
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Cleopatra Records Store
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com