MuzikMan's Reviews And News

4/24/2024

Indie Rock Icon GARY WILSON Puckers Up For His New Single And Video From Forthcoming Full Length Album A BEAUTIFUL BLISS!

Los Angeles, CA - Internationally renowned playboy Gary Wilson is set to break hearts and steal lovers once again with the release of his latest single and accompanying video, teasing a full studio album that promises to be a blissful journey through the realms of love and longing. Wilson is simply one of the most creative and unique forces in indie music, having been name checked by Beck in “Where It’s At,” sampled by Earl Sweatshirt and G Herbo, featured on the hit TV show Narcos, and shared billing with Foxygen, Ariel Pink, R. Stevie Moore, Black Lips, and Dan Deacon just to name a few. Last year, he was also featured in the experimental film “The Absence Of Milk In The Mouths Of The Lost” by Case Esparros, who has earned a strong endorsement from cult film godfather John Waters.

His newest single, “Kiss Me Once And I’ll Kiss You Twice,” is signature Wilson, infused with funky beats and off-kilter grooves, a sonic embrace that invites listeners to immerse themselves in Wilson’s world of whimsical romance. As the first glimpse into his upcoming album, A Beautiful Bliss, the track builds on a wildly inventive arrangement that is bound to leave fans swooning at the wincingly earnest lyrics and reigniting the flames of passion and nostalgia in fans old and new. Also be sure to watch the entrancing video that perfectly encapsulates the song’s weirdo energy.

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/REr1xx1DypU

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

A Beautiful Bliss is set for release on all formats including CD and vinyl on May 24.

Buy the CD/Vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/store/?s=gary+wilson+a+beautiful+bliss&post_type=product

Pre-save/pre-order the digital: https://orcd.co/garywilson_abeautifulbliss

Catch Wilson's unforgettable live performances happening across southern California in support of the album like his recent appearance at the Gutter Glam Festival in Los Angeles as well as shows in his home city of San Diego! Fans can expect an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional performance, as Wilson brings his infectious energy and magnetic stage presence to venues throughout the region. Don't miss your chance to witness the magic firsthand and join Wilson on a journey through the intoxicating landscapes of love and music.

TRACK LIST
1. Treat Me Right
2. You're The Reason
3. Kiss Me...Kiss You Twice
4. You Were My Girlfriend
5. I Want To Be With You Tonight
6. A Beautiful Bliss
7. I'm Living In A Magic Dream
8. When I'm Walking With My Girl
9. You're The Best Thing That Happened In My Life
10. He'll Only Kiss You When You Turn Out The Light
11. I Want To Dream With You Tonight

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

4/23/2024

The Heat Of The Moment Tour Featuring Rock Legends Asia, Focus, Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash, Curved Air and MC’d by Artist Roger Dean - Summer 2024

Asia is absolutely delighted to announce The Heat of The Moment Tour, headlined by Asia and also featuring Focus, Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash and Curved Air and MC’d by artist Roger Dean.

The tour will commence on 3rd July 2024 and will incorporate 21 dates across the USA and Canada.

The tour has been masterminded by rock music keyboard legend and original Asia member, Geoff Downes (Buggles, Asia, Yes).

Asia was the biggest selling album of 1982, number 1 on Billboard for 9 weeks and pioneers of the MTV era! Downes’ brand new iteration of Asia first began to evolve last Summer, at the concert held in memory of late lead singer, songwriter and bassist, John Wetton (King Crimson, Roxy Music, Uriah Heep, Wishbone Ash, UK, Asia, John Wetton Band, Icon). Downes invited old friend John Mitchell (It Bites, Frost*, Lonely Robot, Kino, John Wetton Band, Icon) and new-comer Harry Whitley to join him on stage to celebrate Wetton’s life by performing some of the classic Asia hits. Such was the uproarious reception to their set, that Downes wondered if something magical was beginning to take shape.

“And so it was that the John Wetton tribute last August really reminded me how much Asia’s music belongs on the stage. The response to it all was literally…spine-tingling.”

Downes’ new-look Asia will once again feature Mitchell on guitars and Whitley on lead vocal and bass. The quartet will be made complete by the addition of Virgil Donati (UK, Southern Sons, Steve Vai, Allan Holdsworth) on drums.

Downes continues, “With the addition of Virgil Donati & John Mitchell, two of the finest musicians in the world in their respective classes, this is almost going full circle bearing in mind their previous close collaborations with John W. Completing this circle is also the amazing Harry Whitley who absolutely floored the audience with his incredible vocal interpretation of the Asia songs that John W and I so lovingly wrote over the years.”

The tour will also feature sets from other classic acts, Focus, Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash and Curved Air. All three support acts boast their founder bandleaders and have deservedly attained the status of legend.

Focus will be releasing a brand new studio album later in 2024. Led by the indomitable Sir Thijs van Leer, featuring original 1970’s drummer Pierre Van Der Linden, plus the virtuoso talents of Menno Gootjes on guitar and Udo Pannekeet on bass.

Martin Turner was lead vocalist, bassist, founding member and creative force behind 70’s rock music behemoth Wishbone Ash, best known for such classic albums as Argus and Pilgrimage.

Formed in 1970, Curved Air are one of the founders of progressive rock and a retrospective collection of their most influential and ground-breaking material is currently in the planning stages. Sonja Kristina (vocals) and Kirby Gregory (guitar) will treat audiences to an acoustic set featuring some of the band’s most memorable musical moments. They will be joined by violinist Grzegorz Gadziomski.

Each performance on the tour will be MC’d by legendary artist Roger Dean. For so many, Dean’s artwork is synonymous with the music of the time and stands to represent the very best of British rock music.

The final word goes to Geoff Downes, “I am convinced that John (Wetton’s) spirit is with us as we set out on this new adventure. After all, it is the Year of the Dragon - just as it was in 1982, when we released our first Asia album. It’s as though it was meant to be. Looking forward to seeing you there, my friends – bring it on!”

Heat Of The Moment 2024 Tour Dates:

Wednesday, July 3: Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT
Thursday, July 4: Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls, ON
Saturday, July 6: Chevalier Theatre, Medford, MA
Sunday, July 7: The Paramount, Huntingdon, NY
Tuesday, July 9: Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood, NJ
Wednesday, July 10: Count Basie Center, Red Bank, NJ
Friday, July 12: Tropicana Showroom, Atlantic City, NJ
Saturday, July 13: Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem, PA
Sunday, July 14: American Music Theatre, Lancaster, PA
Tuesday, July 16: Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, Spartanburg, SC
Wednesday, July 17: Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
Thursday, July 18: Columbia County Performing Arts Center, Evans, GA
Saturday, July 20: Hard Rock Live, Orlando, FL
Sunday, July 21: Pompano Beach Amphitheater, Pompano Beach, FL
Monday, July 22: Seminole Hard Rock, Tampa, FL
Wednesday, July 24: North Charleston PAC, North Charleston, SC
Thursday, July 25: Macon City Auditorium, Macon, GA
Friday, July 26: Saenger Theatre, Mobile, AL
Sunday, July 28: VBC Mark Smith Concert Hall, Huntsville, AL
Tuesday, July 30: The Arcada Theatre, St Charles, IL
Wednesday, July 31: The Pabst Theater, Milwaukee, WI

ASIA
Geoffrey Downes - Keyboards, Vocals
John Mitchell - Guitars, Vocals
Harry Whitley - Bass Guitar, Lead Vocal
Virgil Donati - Drums

FOCUS
Thijs van Leer - Hammond Organ, Flute, Vocals
Menno Gootjes - Guitars
Udo Pannekeet - Bass Guitar
Pierre van der Linden - Drums

MARTIN TURNER ex Wishbone Ash
Martin Turner - Bass guitar,Vocals
Danny Willson - Guitars, Vocals
Misha Nikolic - Guitars, Vocals
Sonny Flint - Drums

CURVED AIR
Sonja Kristina - Vocals
Kirby Gregory - Guitars
Grzegorz Gadziomski - Violin

For more information, please contact:
Sarah Ewing at TASK Agency, for QEDG Music Management
sarah@taskagency.co.uk

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

4/22/2024

Prog Ensemble Dario and the Clear Release Third Album “Banquet of Noise” Featuring King Crimson’s Trey Gunn

Multi-instrumentalist Dario and his prog ensemble, Dario and the Clear, have released “Banquet of Noise,” the third album in his pop, rock, progressive trilogy reflecting the world’s journey politically and socially over the last several years. The album marks the return of impressive collaborations with Trey Gunn (King Crimson), Eric Person (Ben Harper), Sue Leonard (back-up vocalist for k.d. lange), and experimental guitar player, Gabriel Marin, all of whom are ideal matches instrumentally for Dario’s diverse and expressive sound palette.

Says Dario, “‘Banquet of Noise’ is the last of what I call the trilogy. First album being ‘Optic Nerve’ followed by ‘Reflective Touch.’ ‘Banquet of Noise’ was to me a perfect ending for the trilogy. I started writing ‘Optic Nerve’ at the height of covid and when I finished that recording, I thought I was done with what I had to say… But that was not the case two weeks later and went back into the studio to work on ‘Optic Nerve.’ And then the same thing happened again. I thought I was done with what I had to say but then I worked on ‘Banquet of Noise.’ And the reason and the inspiration for the trilogy was really based on current events and just a constant bombardment of news and the chaos happening in the world. It was way too much for me to write about, so I had to keep writing the alms. It was non-stop for three and a half years.”

Watch the video for “Banquet of Noise”: https://youtu.be/_ztUR4W5-XQ?si=0KUOApWtM9qOIjM6

“The song ‘Recall’ is a wonderful honor and tribute to David Bowie.” - Steve Ball, Guitarist for Robert Fripp Guitar Ensemble, Founding Member, Guitar Circle Seattle

“With his Tom Waits-like grovel, Dario Saraceno - frontman of Dario and the Clear - combines the bluesy rhythms and pop-rock textures of Talking Heads, Blondie, and The Eurythmics on his latest cut, ‘Love Has Won.’ Natasha Coward’s searing, soulful vocals carry the track through its celebratory, and very danceable, climax.” - Jon Spano, Actor, Writer

“A good intro and ‘Recall’ delivers and immediately grabs you by the ear lobes. Dario Saraceno wastes no time from there immediately crashing the party and taking over. You better listen cause Dario’s got something to say as he commemorates the man who gave us ‘Ziggy Stardust,’ ‘Space Oddity’ and ‘Diamond Dogs.’” - Mike Gourley, Music Journalist

“The imagery that the song ‘Star-Crossed Lovers’ produced is absolutely brilliant. The strength, the power, the urgency, the struggles, the frustration, separation, and futility of the star-crossed lovers is conveyed magnificently both vocally and instrumentally by Dario and the legendary Sue Leonard. Their voices work in harmony, then trail off poignantly as the song ends. Truly these musicians are Masters of their Craft. More, please.” - D.J. Toby Chicago, “Rocking the Universe Weird Sisters Radio”

Dario was born in Ripacandida, Italy and moved to London, England during the height of Beatlemania. After his mom took him to see the Beatles at an outdoor concert, he was profoundly influenced and became infatuated with becoming a musician.

Fast forward to his teenage years and music became reality when he purchased his first guitar. Dario took an unusual approach. When most musicians were aspiring to play covers, Dario was immediately drawn to writing original music and spent time learning multi-track recording.

After graduating Berklee College of Music, Dario toured with his band, Decoy and worked as a session guitarist, touring and teaching. His instructional book, “The Shapes Remain the Same” was published in 2010. After his Decoy project came to a close, Dario went solo, starting a new band he named Dario and the Clear. Dario and the Clear has released seven albums since 2011. After the release of his previous album, “Optic Nerve,” the creative muse continued to provide inspiration for a new body of work that he named “Reflective Touch.”

To purchase: https://darioandtheclear4.bandcamp.com/

For more information:
https://darioandtheclear4.bandcamp.com/album/reflective-touch
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dario-and-the-clear/430371436
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ts7uemMlxXA

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

4/20/2024

Vinyl Review: Blue Oyster Cult-Ghost Stories

Release Date: April 12, 2024

Label: ‎Frontiers

Website

Source Link

Ghost Stories, possibly the Blue Oyster Cult swan song, is a nostalgic journey back to the band's prime. As the two remaining original members age, this album serves as a heartfelt tribute to their past, pulling out some gems for the longtime fans.

It stands out as a significant release, not just for its musical content but also for the long-awaited return of Albert and Joe Bouchard and the heartfelt tribute to the late Allan Lanier. These elements imbue the album with a historical depth, making it a compelling listen for longtime fans.

The vinyl edition of Ghost Stories is a visual treat. The artwork's intricate details (and hidden messages?) serve as a unique storytelling medium. It beautifully captures the essence of the tracks, which are like ghosts in the attic, now brought back to life and polished.

Side A starts with "Late Night Street Fight," a strong opener." "Cherry" is a classic old-school rock with a summertime AM radio station feel—mind you, this was the 1970s. One part of the song has a quiet interlude, then changes with the guitars cutting loose with fire. So, we are off to a good start two tracks in.

Then comes the longest track, "So Supernatural," which clocks in at 5:55. It is classic BOC with music and a theme all fans will recognize. It is one of the strongest compositions on the LP.

If you are familiar with The Animals (Eric Bourdon), you will love their version of "We Gotta Get Out of This Place." Eric Bloom does a great job with the vocals; the musicianship is spot on. It's a rock classic on steroids.

"Soul Jive" is probably the album's most out-of-their-comfort-zone song. It is very cool, though. A catchy beginning riff sets the tone with a more subdued guitar. The music is soft but well done, even if you like the rockers more. However, there are some things to appreciate.

"Gun" closes out side A. It's back to rockin' the house faster and another one of my favorites.

Side B opens with "Shot in the Dark." Picture the scene: a smokey bar room with a piano player. Eric starts talking and telling the story before the music and singing kick in. It is a fine opener with lots of high-energy BOC at work and an excellent lead guitar.

"The Only Thing" is Buck Dharma's perfect song. His voice is the spice that flavors the words and makes them believable. It's a slow-burner love song but features some fitting rockin' funky organ and bass. There is a good guitar break towards the end.

Do you remember, or are you familiar with MC5? Well, here it is, BOC style. "Kick Out the Jams," indeed! Wayne Kramer (RIP February this year) must be smiling down upon this one from his seat in rock 'n' roll heaven. It's another absolute favorite I could listen to daily.

"Money Machine" is a real toe-tapper. It has a great rhythm, accompanied by the piano tinkling as the guitars wail. Excellent!

"Don't Come Running to Me" features quick guitar bursts throughout, with passionate vocals making a point as they sing, "Don't come running to me if he breaks your heart." Well, you get the idea.

Would they end the album with some force and flex their rock muscles? Wrong! They cover The Beatles' song "If I Fell." What a mistake. It is horrendous. It's a very disappointing way to end a decent album from the archives.

It is undoubtedly not one of my favorite BOC albums, but it was a fun listen. It was nice to reminisce back when they were one of the hottest bands on earth. It is a sample of those times and a reminder of how talented this band was.

If you're a BOC fan, you have to have it; an average rock fan, look to their early catalog of releases to find out how good they were. I recommend Agents of Fortune, Secret Treaties, Fire of Unknown Origin, and On Your Feet or On Your Knees (live).

If Ghost Stories is the curtain call for BOC studio work, then all things considered, it's a good exit strategy.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

April 18, 2024

Tracks:

Side A:

1. Late Night Street Fight

2. Cherry

3. So Supernatural

4. We Gotta Get Out of This Place

5. Soul Jive

6. Gun

Side B:

1. Shot in the Dark

2. The Only Thing

3. Kick Out the Jams

4. Money Machine

5. Don't Come Running to Me

6. If I Fell

4/19/2024

Singer, Songwriter Jann Klose to Release Tim Buckley Cover “Song to the Siren” & Performs at NYC’s Cutting Room May 4th

Award winning singer, songwriter and podcaster Jann Klose is releasing new music this season. His cover of Tim Buckley’s legendary “Song to the Siren” will be released Friday, May 3, 2024 via KMG Distribution/The Royalty Network. The song has been a staple of Klose’s live show for the better part of a decade since featuring as the voice of Tim Buckley in the Focus World/Tribeca feature film “Greetings From Tim Buckley” starring Penn Badgley as Jeff Buckley.

Larry Beckett, the song’s lyricist will be the guest on Episode 111 of Jann’s podcast “Making Sound with Jann Klose” to air on release day of the song, May 3rd. Larry was Tim Buckley’s lyricist on many of the album’s Tim released during his short lifetime. Larry and Jann have collaborated as well, co-writing the song “After The Last” which appears on Klose’s 2018 album “In Tandem” (Gallo/Sheer).

Says Larry, “The song encompasses past, present, and future, and is much deeper than I knew when I wrote it. Jann, your long held notes and soaring finish make this a fine addition to the song's covers! Composing and performing with you was a pleasure that I look forward to repeating.”

L to R: Jim Fielder, Jann Klose, Larry Beckett

On May 4th, 2024 Jann Klose and his band featuring Marcus Dembinski, music director and producer on drums, Nick Meese on bass and Julian Tamers on electric guitar will perform at The Cutting Room, 44 E 32nd Street in New York City. Renowned harpist and singer Erin Hill will be joining the group as a very special guest. Tickets are available at thecuttingroomnyc.com now and day of show at the door.

To purchase “Song to the Siren”: https://found.ee/XpxGoE

For more information:
jannklose.com
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/jannklose
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jann.klose/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jannklose/
Threads https://www.threads.net/@jannklose

Making Sound Podcast: https://makingsoundpodcast.com