European Progressive Rock Releases

Having been involved with some very high profile Progressive Rock events over the last few years Classic Rock radio's Jon Kirkman is always interested in hearing new bands and albums. Here is a round up of some recent releases from Progressive Rock bands in Europe. We think they are rather fine and invite you to check them out 

Opus of a Machine - Simulacra

Drawing influence from experimental bands by the likes of Tool, Opeth, Radiohead and Devin Townsend with a pounding electro and pop edge, “Opus of a Machine” pushes the creative boundaries of alternative, progressive rock. With a large plethora of musical heroes, Opus of a Machine blends technical proficiency and raw emotion, bridging the gap between the two.

Their debut album "Simulacra" mixes hard-hitting, anthemic metal with expressive electronic and progressive elements.

The Mercury Tree - Countenance

Countenance takes a little bit of every direction that The Mercury Tree have been exploring over the last four years and mashes them all together to create what is an eclectic, yet exhilarating experience. Each song has its own unique identity, but at the same time, is definitely part of one bigger picture. Listening to this album will be like experiencing the life journey of the band over an hour.

Dropshard - Silk

Silk is the second studio album by Italian symphonic progressive rock band Dropshard released on Aurovine / Sonic Vista. The album is comprised of twelve new songs exploring the vast and unknown of the progressive rock genre.

Syndone - Odysseas

Italian prog masters, Syndone returned with their fifth studio album entitled "Odysseas," out on Fading Records. The band, led by composer and keyboardist Nik Comoglio, collaborated with drummer Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Steven Wilson) and John Hackett, brother of legendary Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett. The album is a tribute to Homer's Odyssey where the concept of travel is seen as the goal of the man being, always tended to look to the future: "the true travel is not to discover new landscapes but in having new eyes."

Braindance - Master of Disguise

Braindance releases Master Of Disguise, long-awaited concept album containing five singles, epic trilogy, groundbreaking packaging and 16 page comic.

Kalle Vilpuu - Silver Lining

Solo album by Estonian guitarist Kalle Vilpuu, who previously worked with Ultima Thule, Henry Laks and Saxappeal Band.

Status Quo

Second Single from Hit Album!

Status Quo will release the second single, ‘Pictures Of Matchstick Men’, from their game-changing hit album ‘Aquostic (Stripped Bare)’ on 15 December 2014 through Rhino / Warners. The album soared to number 5 in the charts, giving the band their highest placing for 18 years. This track, which opens the album, was the band’s breakthrough hit in 1968 and is delivered here as never before.  There will also be an exclusive B side remix, entitled ‘Pictures of Matchstick Men (London Mix)’. The single exemplifies the new approach with the opening notes of this classic Quo calling card immediately recognisable, and yet demonstrably re-engineered.

‘Aquostic (Stripped Bare)’ has been received incredibly well.  The band were invited to perform an exclusive broadcast set for BBC Radio 2, who also play-listed the entire album.  The band's triumphant live debut of Aquostic at The Roundhouse was the BBC's highest-rated programme on the red button with over a million views in just five days.  They then transferred the show from that intimate venue to the Schleyerhalle arena in Stuttgart – playing in front of eight thousand with no loss of impact!  The critics raved about the new approach too.  Classic Rock said that the album “Not only survives the songs’ sparse makeover, but actually dares to improve many of them,” with The Times adding that, “It’s time to… reclaim them as one of Britain’s great bands.” The Sun said simply that the album, “Helps confirm their national treasure status,” whilst Sunday Express commented, “If you haven't bought a new Quo album in a whilethis is the one to get”.

After 50 years at the top of their game as one of the world’s premiere hard rock acts, Quo have leapt out of their comfort zone, the ‘Aquostic (Stripped Bare)’ album is fully acoustic and boasts 22 completely reworked Quo hits and fan favourites. The band are helped out along the way by female backing vocalists, additional musicians on some tracks and even a string section. Tracks are taken from across the band’s incredible output throughout the decades; some permanent features of the electric setlist, others being ushered into the limelight for the first time – having been scrubbed and polished and reappraised through the prism of a new approach.   The arresting cover image was shot by none other than the superstar Bryan Adams.  

There’s a new swing and verve to some of these recordings.  Quo are a band that practice their art more than most and it’s the virtuosity that is apparent here.  ‘Aquostic (Stripped Bare)’ reflects the hours spent backstage or on the bus running through progressions and figures on battered acoustics whilst the Telecasters await onstage.  Three chords?  Whatever…  Do keep up!

Legendary pre-YES band

MABEL GREER’S TOYSHOP to release new album

Featuring ex-YES member Tony Kaye on keyboards

And co-produced by Billy Sherwood

The psychedelic progressive rock group Mabel Greer’s Toyshop, which sprouted the first shoots of YES, have reunited and announced a new album entitled New Way Of Life, which will be released on 9^th March through RSK Entertainment. The opening track Electric Funeral premieres on YouTube today.

New Way Of Life is about authenticity without compromise - a unique and very special album. At once distinctly different from all twenty-one YES studio albums, it still has unmistakeable early Mabel Greer’s Toyshop (MGT) vibes from the time Chris Squire, Peter Banks, Tony Kaye and Jon Anderson were in the band. The album demonstrates the evolution of the group from when it was formed in the sixties to how life experiences have since shaped the music. “We hope that YES followers everywhere enjoy this offering. It’s a piece of history brought to life by the technology of today. The album includes new versions of old classics like Beyond & Before, and a whole lot of new music too," says singer, guitarist and songwriter Clive Bayley.

The 11-track album has been co-produced by YES producer and former member Billy Sherwood who also plays keyboards alongside Tony Kaye and bass alongside Hugo Barré, and combines Bayley’s soulful vocals and wailing guitar solos with Tony Kaye’s distinctive keyboards.

On New Way Of Life, Mabel Greer’s Toyshop deliver a vibrant, energised and occasionally otherworldly sound; with an eclectic mix of old and new music, the album doesn’t disappoint on originality. It was recorded after the two founding members Clive Bayley and Robert Hagger met up again last August after a gap of 45 years! Other members of MGT went on to establish long and successful careers in the music business with YES and other bands, while Clive and Bob ventured into the world of business. “It really was a miracle that we came together and produced this album”, says Hagger. “It started out as fun when I met Clive again and he suggested a trip to the recording studio. The outcome was that we re-discovered the old magic - it was a big buzz working together again, and we have to thank Alex Keren and Hugo Barré for their help in making this project happen.”

Billy Sherwood adds: “On hearing that Mabel Greer’s Toyshop wanted to get back together after so long, I was sceptical about how it would all sound - to my surprise it was actually very cool. Not only will this new album appeal to the die-hard YES fans, but also to a whole new breed of followers. It’s such an exciting project to be involved in”.

New versions of Beyond & Before and Sweetness, from the very first YES album in 1969, are included on New Way Of Life - the former co-written by Clive Bayley and Chris Squire and the latter by Bayley, Squire and Jon Anderson. Other new versions of classic songs on the album co-written by Bayley and Squire are: Jeanetta, Get Yourself Together, Images of You & Me and Electric Funeral. The other tracks are all new compositions written primarily by Bayley.

New Way Of Life will be available on CD and digital download from 9^th March 2015.

The opening track, Electric Funeral, on YouTube: 

http://youtu.be/yaAp93sJSFA

Official Website

www.MabelGreersToyshop.com

Tony Kaye     Hugo Barre     Robert Hagger  Billy Sherwood  Clive Bayley 

Classic Rock Radio (Dot EU)

12 Nov 2014

Uncle G's After Hours Movie Reviews
Spotlight: PMS Cop (2014)

So I see the cover art for the first time. In bold letters it reads; “It's Her Time Of The Month! PMS Cop”. With looks that kill, as does her gun which is shown blazing. Blood spattered all over. And I immediately think to myself, I said Self; “I GOT to get this one!” So I did. Through a sale Full Moon was having on their website, this past Halloween weekend. Picked it up on DVD brand new for, $6.66 – what a deal! Plus I paid for shipping, but never mind that. Got a couple other things as well. All through Amazon Dot Com this time around instead of Full Moon Direct. Amazon, very efficient, meaning it arrived unharmed, and within a few days. Full Moon Direct in the past has always done well themselves. I miss the free shipping days.

Full Moon Direct is the official website for Full Moon Features. An independent B Horror and Science Fiction movie company, out of HollyWeird (Hollywood) California. It's owner is legendary producer and director of some of the best B horror and sci-fi films made since the 1970's: Mr. Charles Band. I met him twice. Dudes the coolest! Get this, my lovely Sandra and I attended for two years in a row, Charles Band's Full Moon Roadshow. One in Dallas (2008), and the other in Houston (2009). Charles is an excellent storyteller in person, and very entertaining. Despite having his critics, he's very successful at what he does.

Wizard Studios who's behind PMS Cop, is also attached to Charles Band. That's where we have this very cool connection. In his film career Charles Band has to this day received credit for being a movie producer, 266 times. A director, 47 times. The numbers are the current ones found on the IMDB website. Changes every few months. I been aware of his work for ages due to a hit he had back in 1982 called, Parasite. Was in 3-D and had Demi Moore in it. Two years later Charlie hit pay dirt with, Ghoulies. Had a monster famously pop it's head out of toilet in that one. Classic!

Wizard Studio has a history and then a time when it was non productive, but now it's back, and better then ever. One might remember Wizard Studios as being called instead, Wizard Video, from back in the 1980's. Distributed the more obscure horror films on VHS tape, such as Lucio Fulci's Zombie (1979). Nowadays Wizard Studios describes itself as; “an acquisition program and distribution outfit designed to spotlight rising independent filmmakers and their cutting-edge genre pictures.” And here's one of their newest catalog entries.

PMS Cop (2014 Wizard Studios_distributed by Full Moon Features)

The original story, the film's screenplay, is directed, and partly produced, all by Mr. Bryon Blakey. Nice work! An example where one vision is sometimes best as compared to many hands in the pie.

Presented as a new theatrical presentation, PMS Cop has a decades old kind of feel to it. A solid independent B horror possessing within some comedy relief. Think 1980's / 1990's popcorn flicks. Lots of above average horror and sci-fi B films came out of those decades. Matter of fact, Full Moon Features released plenty of them. One that comes to mind; Bad Channels. Alien creatures from another planet come to Earth to kidnap pretty females. Science Fiction done strictly for laughs. Martha Quinn from the old MTV days stars in that one. Directed superbly by Ted Nicolaou. For classic rockers, the score is by none other than hard rock band, Blue Oyster Cult. No reaper to fear or not this time around. Begs repeat views.

There are the film snobs who look down on art such as this. Pretending motion pictures of this kind, don't even exist. Straight up, those into Sean Penn message films, might think this type of entertainment, meaning over the top blood, guts, gore, and bare female boobies, a waste of time. Beneath them. I betting these people when alone, sniff their own farts. I watch what I'm interested in, and or amuses me. Easy to figure out how the movie I'm reviewing now, PMS Cop, got my attention.

What we have here is the story of a young female lady cop. The lead character, Mary The Cop, has a history of becoming somewhat unglued the few days prior to starting her period.

The movie kicks in when a pudgy male rapist dressed as a clown, tries to run away after assaulting a young lady, with Mary the Cop and her male partner in hot pursuit. The clown gets the best out of him, but is no match for Mary, who it just so happens is close to expecting a visit from her Aunt Flow. Lady police officer beats the shit out of the clown, in which is all caught on security camera's. Mary's superior after seeing the footage, goes all PC, and makes her give a public apology. Not that it goes well. She also is commanded to see someone about her...problem. And she does, a headshrinker who declares PMS is the blame of our main characters anger issues. By the way, the one doing the diagnosis, a MAN. Not sure if that matters, or not?

Next comes an experimental drug study, and then everything goes bat shit crazy. Enter into the picture, Mary's new personality, the PMS Cop. And when working on all cylinders, she is fucking bad-ass. Her running eye mascara gives her a kind of Alice Cooper look. In one scene she pulls a guys jaw right clean off his face with her bare hand (spoiler...oops...don't hate me). Gratuitous violence at it's best. And worth mentioning, nice work on the special effects. From this moment on, PMS Cop resembles Friday The 13th a tad, with Mary our vengeful policewomen being as difficult to put down as Jason. The characters Mary the Cop / PSM Cop are played believing so, by two different actress': Cindy Means (The PMS Cop) – Heather Hall (Mary). Them and the rest of the cast all put in good performances. Honorable mention to the actress who played the chick whose best friend / crutch appeared to be a whiskey bottle. You know what, decades ago I had those kind of days.

Rating: Using the webs favorite ten star rating system whereas one star means the film is horrible, to ten stars that means it totally rocks, I'd give PMS Cop purely for being just a fun movie where myself as the viewer was able to sit back and chill out relaxing being entertained...not thinking already about paying next months rent...engulfed in all that is PMS Cop. Able to do so, Uncle G proclaims PMS Cop as bloody good cinema, and rates it a solid 9 stars. Would be cool to watch with friends over. Do shots whenever Mary confronts someone. Watch the intake, and don't be afraid to say I had my limit. Just a suggestion. Better doing bong hits. Accounts on the crowd one is hanging out with. I'd give PMS Cop 10 stars, but I want to save that rating for it's sequel. Nothing announced yet that I'm aware. I can see PSM Cop being a franchise. Did others lab rats have side effects? Do tell.

In my case, these are the type of movies I enjoy the most. Obviously not a serious film about PMS. The filmmakers disclose in the beginning of the film, their doubt of it's existence. Still, there is legitimate research and statistics that can't be ignored. For those who love a good period piece, here you go. Excellent cover-wrap artwork on the DVD also. For sure will stand out in the home DVD collection.

OH...if your household has children...with good parenting, over 14 years old and up, and this should be cool. Below that age....seek something Disney.

Official Trailer (YouTube link)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2FWC3kB7jI

Wizard Studios Website

http://fullmoonstreaming.com/wizard

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for CRR (Dot EU)
Twitter @GBrown0816

"Time Pieces - The Best Of Eric Clapton"

An indispensable collection for any Clapton fan!

"Time Pieces" is a collection of Eric Clapton's greatest hits. Eleven tracks of his best hits from 1970 to 1980, including his #1 Billboard chart record, 1974's "I Shot The Sheriff" and the classic "Layla," the 7:10 LP version from the Derek & The Dominos album which peaked at # 10 in July 1972.

The songs on the album were all released as singles, with only one song,"Knockin' on Heaven's Door," having never been released on album. A large number of songs on the release were either from 461 Ocean Boulevard or Slowhand including "Cocaine," "Wonderful Tonight," "After Midnight," "Promises" "Lay Down Sally" and Clapton's version of the old spiritual "Swing Low Sweet Chariot. "The songs are all universally loved and recognized hits making "Time Pieces" a great way to get into the Eric Clapton catalog for old and new fans alike.

The songs here are like gems!

1. I Shot the Sheriff

2. After Midnight

3. Knockin' On Heaven's Door

4. Wonderful Tonight

5. Layla

6. Cocaine

7. Lay Down Sally

8. Willie And The Hand Jive

9. Promises

10. Swing Low Sweet Chariot

11. Let It Grow

Mastered by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio

For More Information: 

http://www.audiofidelity.net/content/best-eric-claptontimepieces

Adding to the series of Eric Clapton reissues, Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity will be releasing Eric Clapton's Rainbow Concert on 180gm limited edition Vinyl LP & on Limited Edition Hybrid SACD!

"Eric Clapton's Rainbow Concert"

Alive and Kickin' Clapton Makes a Comeback!

Other than one appearance in August 1971 at George Harrison's Concert for Bangladesh, Eric Clapton had not been heard from until Pete Townshend coaxed him to headline a concert appearance. The show was scheduled for January 13, 1973 at London's Rainbow Theatre. An all-star band was assembled for the show and in addition to Townshend the other English rock luminaries included Clapton's old Blind Faith pals, Steve Winwood and Rick Grech, Winwood's Traffic mate Jim Capaldi, Ron Wood, Jimmy Karstein and Rebop Kwaku Baah. It was an ensemble effort but the show demonstrated that the reclusive Clapton, nursing a heroin addiction, could still play, and that was welcome news. 

If the classic Derek and the Dominos' "In Concert" album shows Clapton on the upswing, then "Rainbow Concert" explores the lower reaches of his psyche. The Rainbow performance was his attempt at starting all over again and coming out of isolation to return to his music. Upon listening to Rainbow Concert it becomes clear just how much the concert helped to re-energize him. The concert at London's Rainbow Theatre stands as the beginning of Eric Clapton's return to the stage. 

"Rainbow Concert" is a recording of monolithic melancholy, the music is rich in its make-up and sad in tone. Townshend's and Wood's guitars and Winwood's organ surround Clapton in a protective aural capsule, but he cuts loose as much as his setting allows in "Badge," and he's solid for most of the show.  The album's excitement comes from the layered instrumental textures, the solemn measured movement into climaxes that are majestic if not explosive, and the nuances of Clapton's restrained playing and singing in a suitably course and bluesy voice.

In addition to "Badge," written by Clapton and George Harrison and covers such as J.J. Cale's "After Midnight" and a very soulful rendition of Jimi Hendrix's "Little Wing," Steve Winwood steps back as lead vocalist in Eric Clapton's favor for Blind Faith's "Presence of the Lord" and Traffic's "Pearly Queen." 

A historic live appearance...all gritty rock n' roll and smouldering blues

TRACKS: Original 1973 release

Side One

Badge (Eric Clapton, George Harrison) – 3:32

Roll It Over (Clapton, Bobby Whitlock) – 6:43

Presence of the Lord (Clapton) – 5:37

Side Two

Pearly Queen (Jim Capaldi, Steve Winwood) – 7:00

After Midnight (J. J. Cale) – 5:12

Little Wing (Jimi Hendrix) – 6:32

Producer Bob Pridden

Mastered for this vinyl release by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio

For More Information: 

http://www.audiofidelity.net/content/eric-claptons-rainbow-concert

Oli Brown Announces UK Tour Dates  For new Band "RavenEye" 

Oli Brown, the multi-award winning guitarist/singer-songwriter redefines his career, forming power-rock trio ‘RavenEye’, along with drummer Kev Hickman and bassist Aaron Spiers.
Raven Eye have been slamming audiences with their signature heavy riffs and incendiary live shows in Spain, France and Italy as well as supporting Joe Satriani on his European tour. Now they take their stand in the UK this December. Whether it be straddling a bass drum high into the night or jumping into a raucous crowd, Raven Eye is a high-energy rock act not to be missed.

Like the beginning of a good joke, the two Englishmen and an Australian have all travelled different paths up until the band’s formation this year. Oli Brown has spent 10 years touring the world under his own name and in that time released 4 albums and established himself as one of the most formidable guitarists/front men in the UK scene. Kev Hickman has seen his fair share of international touring, and with an unforgettable stage presence, he has developed an intense, hi-octane performance. Aaron Spiers tore into the UK music scene in 2012, and with his heavy low end, fuzzed out tones and solid presence, he has established himself as a force to be reckoned with on stage.

After meeting and creating music together, the trio knew that this would be their musical future. Here beginsRavenEye.

With only 7 gigs listed on the tour, get your tickets and become part of the show.
Details here:


Dec 07 The Musician, Leicester (Tickets)
Dec 08 The Bullingdon, Oxford (Tickets)
Dec 09 Fiddler’s Elbow, Camden (Tickets)
Dec 11 Talking Heads, Southampton (Tickets)
Dec 13 The Zed Music Café, Sevenoaks (Tickets)
Dec 15 The Waterfront, Norwich (Tickets)
Dec 16 The Louisiana, Bristol (Tickets)

Important Websites 

www.RavenEyeOfficial.com

www.Facebook.com/ItsRavenEye