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Release Date: 23 June 2017 Band is: Taz Taylor – All
Guitars Tracks: 1- Something Is Ending 4:40 It has been a decade since Escape Music released the classic “Welcome to America” album in 2006 (ESM137) by Taz Taylor and it is a really strong album with none other than Rainbow singer Graham Bonnet on lead vocals. Three years later and “Straight Up” was released (ESM187) with Keith Slack (MSG) taking the mike stand. The album also featured Don Airey (Rainbow / Deep Purple) on keyboards. After these two really strong releases the Taz Taylor band decided to go instrumental and tour dates ensued with the likes of Ace Frehley, L A Guns, Molly Hatchet, Dokken, Skid Row, MSG and Great White to name but a few. Bringing us up to the present day it’s time to return to a line-up that includes a vocalist and so Taz has used the incredible vocal talents of Chandler Mogel (Outloud / Punky Meadows). Chandler and Taz have always kept in touch and it seemed the right time to collaborate on an album… and here is “Pressure and Time”. As Taz states “Pressure and Time” is how you create diamonds” This new 2017 release is 12 tracks chock full of exciting ideas and quality musicianship, original members Val Trainor and Barney Firks lay down a great rhythm backbone for Taz to show off his guitar playing prowess.
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Release Date: 19th May 2017 Songs list: 1- Gravity 4:34 / 2-Automatic 4:19 / 3- Put It All On Love 4:45 / 4-Contagious 3:26 / 5-Broken Bones 3:53/ 6-Best Things In Life 4:09 / 7-Face The Night 4:23 / 8-No Smoke Without Fire 4:09 / 9-Good Times, Bad Times 2:58 / 10-Be True To yourself 4:21 / 11-Secrets And Lies 3:57 / 12-Stand Up And Be Counted 3:26 Steve Overland (FM)
– Lead Vocals Produced by: Steve Morris and
Steve Overland It has been almost 14 years since the debut album by Shadowman was released (“Land of the Living” ESM098). The album was warmly received by all who had a penchant for good old British melodic hard rock. As you would expect Shadowman had elements of both Heartland and FM deeply embedded in its grooves, yet it was highly original and was often touted as the best British melodic release of 2004. Two years later in 2006 and the eagerly awaited follow up “Different Angles” (ESM 127) became an important album for this quartet that also includes both Harry James and Chris Childs of Thunder. The unmistakable guitar trademark sound of Steve Morris and the vocals of Steve Overland will always shine through at a very early stage. Somehow they make their music sound effortless, and as we all very well know Steve Overland has a remarkable vocal range. His vocal range suits the classic melodic rock genre and he has a very bluesy side to his talent. His four solo releases on Escape Music are all fine examples of his work. Shadowman are a band that is all about great rock music who will win you over with charm. Quality rock music is so hard to find these days and it is reassuring to know that it hasn’t lost its way. “Ghost in the Mirror” (ESM179), the band’s third release in 2008 is an extension of the band’s already established sound and the 2011 release “Watching Over You” helped nurture the band’s identity even further. Another six years on and we are presented with the band’s fifth studio release, and it’s certainly been worth the wait. “Gravity” is a marvellous opener which shows fresh ideas and superb musicianship, and this pretty much paves the way for the rest of the album. Along the way we have Steve Morris and his ever present guitar prowess, and Steve Overland just effortlessly gives us brilliant vocal performances throughout. The solid rhythm of Thunder men Chris Childs and Harry James are faultless, and with classic touches from original FM keyboards player Didge Digital we are in for a real treat. Discography: Land of the Living (2004), Different Angles (2006), Ghost in the Mirror (2008), Watching Over you (2011), Nowhere Bound (2017)
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Escape Music is pleased to announce the release of Walk On Fire second album Mind Over Matter!
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Release date: 21 April 2017 Band is: Produced by: Dave
Cairns Track listing: 'Mind Over Matter' is the long awaited second album by the classic AOR act 'Walk On Fire'. This 13 track CD features ex Asia drummer Trevor Thornton, the late Mike Casswell on guitars (ex Brian May band), Phil Williams (Tony Hadley Band and ex Keith Emerson) and Bowie/Seal keyboards and programming legend, Richard Cottle, and was written and produced by Dave Cairns (of 'Secret Affair' fame). These newly discovered buried treasures of 24 track analogue recordings were put to tape following the worldwide MCA Records release of the 1989 debut album by 'Walk On Fire' entitled 'Blind Faith'. Their eponymous album, 'Blind Faith' produced by Boston based Walter Turbitt (of The Cars fame) featured the legendary Steve Ferrone on drums, Richard Cottle on keys, guitars by Keith Airey (Nik Kershaw band) and a host of top session players and a perfect showcase for the incredible Scots vocalist Alan King. This guitar led follow up is a one stop shop for all AOR fans and well worth the wait too!
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Catalogue Number: ESM301 The Band is: Tony Mitchell - Lead
and backing vocals / Guitars / Keyboard Produced by:
Tony Mitchell and Paul Hume Tack list: 1- All She Wrote 4:52 / 2- Dynamite 5:17 / 3- Hangin On A Heartache 4:53 / 4- Ride With Angels 5:41 / 5- Playing Dirty 5:08 / 6- Rise 4:52 / 7- Waiting For This Feelin 4:24 / 8- Sanctuary 6:28 / 9- Hell To Pay 5:01 / 10- All In The Name Of Rock N Roll 4:54 / 11- After The Rain 5:41 / 12- Bring It On 5:29 In early 2016, Ex “Kiss of the Gypsy & Kingdom of Deadmen” frontman/guitarist, Tony Mitchell started writing & recording what was to be his 5th solo studio album. He set out to return to his melodic/AOR rock style that was associated with him in his previous bands leading up to the raw classic rock style of Kiss of the Gypsy & the heavy rocking Kingdom of Deadmen. It became evident to Mitchell that the songs had a real magic about them & rather than finish the album & release it on his own XGypsy music label which he had done with previous albums, he thought he would test the water by sending a handful of tracks out to a few melodic rock record companies. All were blown away & wanted to release it there & then but what swayed Mitchell’s decision was when he received a call from Khalil Turk from Escape Music. After a conversation about the recording of the songs, Khalil suggested that he introduced Mitchell to a few musicians that he has worked with, to make the songs sound even better as Mitchell played all instruments & vocals on the demos. The musicians included Paul Hume (lead guitar) & Neil Ogden (drums) from classic rock bands,“Demon & Lawless”, Nigel Bailey (bass) from melodic rock bands, “Bailey, Lifeline & 3 Lions” also, Jamie Crees (guitar) from “Lawless”. All brought their individual style to the table & was evident that something very special was happening ... “Dirty White Boyz” was born. They have all come together to form an allegiance of AOR/Classic/Melodic Rock & each lending their style & craft to the dynamic songs for this debut album. DWB have tried to use all the ingredients from their rich history, Mitchell's raw, rock vocals & punchy thick riff guitars, Ogden's thunderous, rock solid drumming, Hume's flawless, majestic lead guitar licks & solos, Crees’s power riffs & twin lead & Bailey's thumping, ground shaking bass lines, all of which are singers that can harmonise effortlessly. Now with the debut album, “Down & Dirty” finished, it’s all systems go. The album not only hits you like a freight train, it also leaves you breathless in it’s a combination of melodic gems, Anthemic rockers & a few heart wrenching power ballads for good measure. Songs that will shake the very roof off any venue, songs that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride & songs that will stand the test of time Dirty White Boyz are here !!! Jump aboard this Rock train, get down & dirty & let's enjoy the ride !!!
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Release date: 2009 Back by popular request!! Two Disc jewel case Disc 1: Red Sky – We have arrived / Red Sky / Faith / Horseman of the apocalypse / Heroes Saints and Fools / Castles in the sand / Flame of Youth / Jekyll and Hide / Menage a trois / Ride shotgun with the wind / Angel eyes / Follow the piper Disc 2: Heroes Saints and Fools – Crusader / Rock of ages / No more lonely nights / Horseman of the apocalypse / Heroes Saints and Fools / Dolphin Ride / Ready to Fly / A Face in the Crowd * / We have arrived */ Blue stanza * / Come to the light * * bonus tracks Life long pals Richard Lowe and Rob Bendelow formed their first band “Lammergier” during the mid 70’s together with folk guitarist turned rock bassist Barry Yates. Following their first live performance in 1977 the band gigged extensively across the English Midlands. The standard of these performances combined with their unique brand of symphonic rock saw “Lammergier” amass a large and loyal following. Then a new decade arrived and with it some major developments for this dedicated band. Having played with a variety of drummers and vocalists the ideal line up finally crystallised: John Thorne – Drums / Steve Bettney – Lead vocals / Barry Yates – Bass / Richard Lowe – Keyboards / Rob Bendelow – Guitar. And then the name changed to “SARACEN”, but the music remained the same; an ever growing repertoire of powerful guitar orientated rock, laced with lush keyboards and evocative vocals. After several months off the road with time spent putting the finishing touches to their new live show the lads re-emerged as Saracen in January 1981, with plans for a debut album. During the summer of 1981 the now famous Heroes saints and Fools album was recorded at Fairview studios in England. Released in October of 1981 it was received with critical acclaim and is still regarded as a classic of its genre – twenty years on! The album actually entered the top 50 albums as well as the single “No More Lonely nights” enjoying good success. Sadly, illness forced Barry Yates to retire from the band and he was replaced by bassist Jason Gardner. Saracen tracks received regular airplay on Tommy Vance’s Friday night rock show culminating in a “live” session being broadcast in 1982. The bands second single “We have arrived” was recorded but then Bendelow and Thorne left the band in the winter of 1983. An album was recorded called “Change of Heart” on neat records but Saracen stopped touring in mid 1985. That appeared to be the end of the band but the band then resurfaced two decades later and resurrected their musical dynasty with the release of “Red Sky” in March 2003. Musically it was re-works of the some of the old classics with new tracks added – a very welcome return for the lords of Epic metal! Saracen have gone on to release a further three albums on the Escape Music Label – “Vox in Excelso”, “Marilyn” and “Redemption” all of which are hailed as classics, but the earlier recordings we have on this two disc set are perhaps the ones that fans hold most dear to their heart. Classic 1980’s music.
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Release date: 24th February 2017 Stefanie is: Special Guests Track Listing: Stefanie was born and raised in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, once home to some of the country’s largest steel manufacturing and the subject of Billy Joel’s 1982 hit “Allentown”. The towering Steel Stacks have become the backdrop for a flourishing music scene, the home of Musikfest, and the beginning of Stefanie’s songwriting journey. Stefanie discovered her passion for music and songwriting at a young age. She got her start by singing her song ideas into her grandfather’s old cassette recorder. As she dove deeper into songwriting, she learned to play guitar which took her writing to the next level. She began to showcase her songs by taking the stage at Lehigh Valley’s Musikfest, as well as appearing on the tv music series “Steel Sessions”, and singing the National Anthem at Coca-Cola Stadium. In 2011 Stefanie ventured to Nashville and performed at the legendary Bluebird Café and 12th & Porter. Two years later she traveled to perform at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to further expand her life journey. These experiences have led to the collection of songs from her debut CD. In 2015, Stefanie began recording her album with producer Brian J. Anthony who immediately embraced her vision. Brian helped create a sonic landscape by mixing bits of rock, pop and country while not losing the intensity of her voice or deep personal reflection in her lyrics. The result of these tracks gained the attention of some of the area’s best-known musicians who all jumped at the opportunity to be part of this release. Stefanie continues to captivate fans of all ages with her love torn lyrics and catchy hooks. She is ready to take center stage as one of Pop/Rock’s best up and coming artist.
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Release date: 20th January 2017 Coming soon on Escape Music, Last Autumns Dream "In Disguise", their 13th
album. An album showcasing Last Autumn’s Dream is Mikael Erlandsson: Lead
vocals, backing vocals, keyboards & guitar Track listing: 1 If Love Should Go 4:33 2 Jet Airliner 4:10 3 Working For The Weekend 3:48 4 Wig Wam Bam 3:16 5 Slow Down 3:32 6 Need A Little Loving 4:06 7 I´ll Bring The Whole World
To Your Door 3:23 8 Just One More Time 5:11 9 When I Kissed The Teacher 3:21 10 All The Way 3:22 11 Hey You 4:07
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Release date: 18th November
2016 Recorded and mixed at GLOBAL MUSIX
STUDIO Gothenburg Sweden Track listing; 1-Revolution for the Brave 3:52 / 2-Liberate Yourself 3:35 / 3-Buried in a Flame 3:51 / 4-Safe and Sound 3:48 / 5-Fallen Endlessly 5:30 / 6-Crossing the Lines 5:10 / 7-Power 3:10 / 8-Rise Up 4:41 / 9-I need Rock n’ Roll 4:27 / 10-Chasing Shadows 4:35 / 11-Through the Fire 4:31 / 12-Stop 5:18 After more than two decades of contributing with his voice and songwriting on studio albums, it's finally time for APOLLO to deliver his first solo album. And it's been a long road leading to "Waterdevils". Apollo's career started at the age of 14 when the young Apollo from Swedish town Borås, inspired by bands like Kiss and Alice Cooper, started playing with various bands, as an aspiring guitarist. “Not many wanted to be vocalists back in those days. Everybody wanted to play the guitar, nobody wanted to sing. So I just decided to become a singer." Apollo joined his first bands Blazon and Craze at the age of 17. Craze released a single "Living In Sin" but the band disbanded shortly thereafter when Apollo left to do his military service in 1988. It took another eight years before Apollo recorded his first full album with the band Faith Taboo. "We started out as a cover band, but I didn't want to waste time just playing other people's songs, so I had everybody get involved in writing songs for our self-financed album "Psycopath" [released in 1996]. The band played local gigs for a while, until they eventually called it a day and Apollo joined the band Majestic. His singing career took off and he sang with bands and projects in a neverending stream: Time Requiem, Meduza, Sandalinas, and Evil Masquerade to mention but a few. But things were about to really start happening in 2006. Time Requiem were mixing their album in Studio Fredman in Gothenburg in late 2005, when studio owner and producer Fredrik Nordström introduced Apollo to a guitarist who was also working in his studio. “Fredrik said he wanted me to meet this Greek guy, Gus. He thought we would get along, cause we were both Greek. It clicked right away. Gus asked me to join his band Firewind, but I had to turn down the offer because I was studying at the time and didn't have time for another band. He asked again about six months later, and by that time I was done with my studies so we went for it. It was magic, it felt like it was finally the real deal and we were all on the same musical level." The Firewind-guitarist was Gus G - who in 2009 landed the dream job as the lead guitarist in Ozzy Osbourne's band, replacing Zakk Wylde. The years with Firewind definitely and finally put Apollo on the map. He recorded 4 albums with the band and toured with the likes of Y&T, Scorpions, Judas Priest and Whitesnake among others, playing big festivals such as Download, Graspop Metal Meeting, Sweden Rock Festival and more. Apollo parted company with Firewind in January 2013 and decided to focus on Spiritual Beggars (w. guitarist Michael Amott, Arch Enemy) who he had joined in 2010 and fronted alongside of Firewind. He also started working on his solo debut. The coming two years were spent writing, recording and collaborating with friends from bands like King Diamond, Gamma Ray, Arch Enemy, Grand Magus, MasterPlan and many more. "I originally wanted to release the material under a band name or as a project, but people kept saying it was about time that I go solo and step out as a solo artist. So I decided to take the plunge." "Waterdevils" is the result of Apollo's free musical spirit where he has liberated himself from all rules and just done whatever he wanted to do. "I wanted to do this because it's fun and exciting, and also because I want to contribute to keeping classic rock alive!" "Waterdevils is a weather phenomenon. It's a small, weak whirlwind over water that's pretty rare. You never know where you'll see it or if you'll see it again. In a way it's a tribute to all of those who have contributed to this album. They showed up, unexpectedly and they might show up again, or maybe not, you just never know. Like waterdevils." audio samples to follow
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Release date: 21st October 2016 Tracks: Doctor my Heart 5:11 / Easy on me 5:19 / Edge of the universe 4:35 / Every lonely night 4:06 / Wildest dreams 4:58 / Intoxicated 4:04 / Define our love 4:03 / Pocketful of dreams 4:04 / Making miracles 4:35 / Back where I belong 3:57 / Unforgiving world 4:23 / Shame on You 4:20 (bonus track) Produced by Lars
Chriss and Khalil Turk All Keyboards by Tommy Denander
except for: Steve Overland is a legend in his own lifetime. Is there anyone out there who is not familiar with his name? He has a history that goes way back into the late seventies, his first major recording was with the band “Wildlife” in 1980. After the demise of “Wildlife” Steve went on to form the cult British melodic rock band “FM”, a band that released many great albums throughout the eighties and nineties and more recently in 2013. Their popularity has always been at the forefront of British Hard Rock. Steve originally teamed up with Escape Music to provide lead vocals for the Boston Tribute album (ESM 081), singing 'Amanda', one of the album highlights. Steve also joined forces with Steve Morris of “Heartland” fame to record the much acclaimed “Shadowman” albums “Land of the Living” (ESM 099) “Different Angles” (ESM127) “Ghost in the Mirror” (ESM179) Watching Over you (ESM224). Steve has also fronted two releases by “The Ladder”, which is a dream come true for all fans of FM as the band is an extension of the great FM themselves. “Future Miracles” (ESM109) was welcome by fans old and new and it was hailed by many as the best album of 2004. More recently “Sacred” (ESM149) is an album that hones the identity of “The Ladder”. Let’s examine Steve’s first solo album “Break Away” (ESM170), this had fans divided as it was so much different from his work with FM, but many grew to love it as it was something different from the norm. Steve gave us a more classic approach to melodic rock with “Diamond Dealer” (ESM198), with great songs that have feeling and depth. The release “Epic” provided one of the best starts to 2014 you could possible want to wish for, and had contributions from Mike Slamer and Billy Greer of Kansas. “Radio Radio” is one of the most radio-friendly tracks you could ever wish to hear and so easy on the ears. It’s the quality of the songs and musicianship on this album that made it so special, it was always going to be difficult to surpass. However, here is Steve’s new recording “Contagious” which is better than ever before. Big production by Lars Chriss and superb song-writing are the order of the day, these latest offerings from Steve are beautifully executed and flow with finesse from beginning to end. Steve Overland has just added another classic album to his roster, and it’s his best to date.
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Release Date: 23 September 2016 Mick Devine
– Lead Vocals Produced and Mixed by Lars Chriss
Tracks List: SEVEN originate from the AOR scene in the late eighties where Polydor records having been fairly successful in the U.K with the likes of Magnum and Little Angels, set their sights on SEVEN, a relatively unknown act that had started life as a successful South African group, reformed to hit the big time in the UK. SEVEN toured extensively supporting an eclectic variety of acts that included the likes of Jason Donovan, Richard Marx, The Monkees and Brother Beyond. It’s a time period that Mick Devine is keen to reminisce about, “Even though they were out and out pop gigs, we loved the crowds and the noise. We went from pubs to opening to 3000 screaming fans in Southampton. It is a very addictive adrenaline rush. We got to play all the top venues, which were fantastic; including Wembley Arena, the NEC, BIC, SEC and even the Royal Albert Hall. The Richard Marx tour was definitely the best for us with a more grown up audience we were able to rock it up and truly be ourselves. It went down really well!” Entering the recording studios, with John Parr at the production helm, they recorded two very strong singles in the shape of “Inside Love” and “Man with A Vision” both of which achieved moderate success in the UK. In 2014 the original bass player Pat Davey was working alongside Robert Hart on an Escape Music album when the name SEVEN cropped up in the conversation. It would seem that Khalil Turk was a big fan, as Devine explains, “Yeah, back in the day Khalil had really loved the band and he got in touch to see if we would be interested in finally releasing an album,” Without too much convincing the project was born. The production talents of Lars Chriss (who’s repertoire includes albums with Steve Overland, Chris Ousey, and Radioactive) were enlisted to produce the band’s debut album called ‘7’, which was released to critical acclaim and was held up as one of the “Albums of the Year” on many lists. SEVEN was born again! Following the success of the first album, a passion was re-kindled within Devine & McFarlane, who began work on new material, and along with the writing talents of Lars Chriss, Fredrik Bergh, Andy Loos, Kay Backlund and Jeff Paris, that passion was given focus and a place to come to life. What they discovered was a well of untapped creativity that had been hidden for far too long and the songs poured out. SEVEN ‘Shattered’ is a collection of wonderfully catchy songs that rely on clean and memorable melodies that allow Devine’s distinctive voice to shine through. It was Devine who took the lead in writing the lyrics on this album, matching the intensity and feel of the music to deliver a modern melodic rock album with influences ranging from hints of Foreigner in “A Better Life” and “Broken Dream”, Journey in “High Hopes” and even traces of Magnum in “Light of 1000 Eyes” and “Last Illusion” The lyrical themes are drawn from a depth of life experience and observations and are heartfelt and real. The production talents of Lars Chriss and the line up of truly great musicians, deliver an album of depth and variation which ranges from driving guitar-led tracks with memorable riffs to melodic anthems, all backed by stunning keys, bass and standout solo’s. It is an album that is a worthy follow-up to the critically acclaimed ‘7’. This album represents a natural progression for SEVEN and it features 11 stunning tracks that are laden with great musical performances and soaring vocals, and while being fresh and up to date, they have bite and edge and yet remain melodic and catchy This is one superb follow up album that will not disappoint.
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Release Date: 26 August 2016 Band is: Alex Jorio - Drums / Elio Maugeri - Lead Vocals / Simone Falovo -Guitars / Stefano Turolla - Bass / Eugenio Manassero - Keyboards Produced and Mastered by Simone Falovo for Elektradrive Productions 2016 Track listing: 1-Intro - Beginning 2-Secret Of The Holy Grave 3-Time Machine 4-Lord Of The Rings 5- Fortune Teller 6-Snake (Slip on…) 7- Against The Stream 8-Take Off 9-…Over The Space /10-Song Fr Feeling 11-Clash Of Titans 12- Midnight Passage Bonus Tracks: 1- Let it Survive 1984 / 2-Brian Storm 1984 / 3- Winner 1985 / 4-Riding The Wind (As Overdrive) 1983 demo / 5-You Cant Stop Rock & Roll 1985 demo (outtakes from OTS) 6- Against The Stream - Live 1986 Elektradrive is one of the most significant bands in the history of Italian Hard Rock. Born in 1981 as Overdrive, they are from Torino and they changed their name to Electradrive in 1983. The band were together until 1993. Elektradrive debut single “Let it survive” was released on 1984 by Smoko Records, that was at the times the label of Simone Falovo major brother, Stefano, who really discovered the band in his family…Immediately after Elektradrive were featured, in the same year on the compilation “HM Eruption” with the song “Lord of the rings”, and in the compilation “Metallo Italia” with “Winner” the year after. In 1985 the band produces a videoclip for “Winner”. The band’s style then was a sort of hard/heavy rock similar at the sound of Iron Maiden/Dio/Ozzy Osbourne/Michael Schenker Group, but with a nice presence of keyboards synth sounds in it,so that Beppe Riva from Rockerilla Italian magazine, coined for them the term “Space Metal” band. Elektradrive's debut full length album, “Over the space” was finally ready and released in 1986 with Discotto Records followed by a national tour. It was fully appreciated by many European critics, like Dave Reynolds from “Metal Forces” and Kerrang!!magazine who gave them 90/100 score. The most famous and widely appreciated LP by Elektradrive, “Due” sees the light in 1989 with Minotauro. The sound is more class hard rock/AOR than the debut album, and “Due” receives an excellent feedback from the international press, including a rate of 5 K’s (top of the score!) on Kerrang! Magazine (in the same number, Whitesnake took 3K’s with “Slip of the tongue). Many Italian critics declared them “Italian AOR Gods”. The band played many gigs all around Italy, and the most important was as supporting band with Manowar at Palasport, Torino. An intensive international tour follows. In 1990 Elektradrive played some live shows L.A. amongst the others, the noteworthy night at the famous Roxy Theatre in Sunset Boulevard. After the comeback from USA, the band starts pre-production and writing new songs. So the third album (the first released in CD and not vynel) came out with the title “Big City” and released by Dracma Records in 1993. “Big City” is reviewed by many as album of the month, and some Italian critics named them “the best rock band in Italy, ever”. In 1994 “Due” and “Big City” are distributed in Japan by EMI/Toshiba and in Europe by Long Island Records. After almost ten years of silence, in 2004, Simone Falovo and Elio Maugeri, with the original line-up of the beginnings, start writing songs for a new album: “Living 4” which is released by Valery Records in 2009, and got a lot of very rave reviews from all the Italian and european magazines. Considered by many critics a masterpiece (it took the band three years of hard work for writing and recording process) “Living 4” is a mature concept album of modern-bluesy-AOR-hard rock with committed lyrics about environment, water scarcity, corporations, and general concerns on the state of our planet. They received airplay by Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson in his BBC show, and he described the band as melodic and classy hard rock band, a “bunch of veterans from Turin”. audio samples to follow
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Release date: 22 July, 2016 Tracks: Rise to the Challenge / Wayward Son / Roads of my life / March of Souls / Holy Days / Touch your soul / Hold onto Love / Last Tiger / Stone Cold (In your eyes) / Silent Rage / Only Tomorrow The Band: Produced and Mixed by: Paul Hume
at Summer Bank Studio UK In 1998 North East Melodic Rock band Change of Heart released their debut on Escape Music. Their debut was recorded at Parr Street studios in Liverpool with many guests including Chris Ousey (Heartland / Snakecharmer) and Steve Morris (Heartland). Interestingly the Engineer was one Ken Nelson, who later found fame twiddling the knobs for Coldplay. With an appearance at the “Gods” festival Change of Heart quickly shot up in everyone’s estimation. It was some two years before follow up album “Continuum” appeared and the band worked with Kenny Kaos (Pokerface / Distance) to record a twelve track album that was laden with hooks and melodies. In 2005 an album called “Truth or Dare” was released and this was a very strong release that saw the band mature in a fine melodic rock band that would challenge many of the UK’s finest rock bands treading the boards at the time. The various original band members have moved on to pastures new, more notably Dave Chapman who plays keyboards for “Magic”, who are well known for their tribute acts to Queen and ELO. However, the band has always been the brainchild of Alan Clark who is the vocalist, guitarist and songwriter and is the core member of the band since 1998. Alan has always been busy writing and recording since 2005 and now Change of Heart present us with “Last Tiger”, a brand new release which will put the band firmly back on the map. Paul Hume from the band Lawless has had some input to the final result and also mixed and produced the album. That makes a very strong 11 track album that is dominated by beautifully executed keyboards and guitar solos that are to die for. Change of Heart are back with a great new album which is bound to rekindle past fires and put the North East of England firmly back on the map.
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Release date: 24th June, 2016 Track List: 1- Answer Of Life 4:46 / 2-Don’t Give Up 3:53 / 3- Edge Of Love 4:01 / 4- I’m Back 4:28 / 5-Lost And Lonely 5:31 / 6-I’m Flying High 4:32 / 7-Within Your Eyes 5:06 / 8-Midst Of June 5:06 / 9-There’s No Denying 4:22 / 10-To Be An Honest Man 5:02 / 11-Baby I'm Yours 4:48 / 12-Euphoria 3:06 Rob Moratti -
Lead Vocals and all background harmonies. Canadian singer Rob Moratti has had a varied career to date, he first appeared as a songwriter and lead vocalist in the early 90’s for the band “Moratti” and two fine albums were recorded “Desolation” in 1995 and “Legends of Tomorrow” in 1997. He then took centre stage in the band “Final Frontier” alongside Mladen from Von Groove, a band that went on to record 4 albums and gained a cult following in Europe and Japan. The band played exciting hard melodic rock set apart by Rob’s powerful vocals. In 2008 Rob was chosen to replace Michael Sadler in the band “Saga”, a fine accolade indeed, and he featured on the 2009 album “Human Condition” as well as touring extensively with the band. Sadler returned to Saga and so Rob went on to record a solo project “Victory” in 2011 with Escape Music. “Victory” had an impressive line-up that included Reb Beach (Whitesnake) and Tony Franklin (The Firm). The album was an instant success and has since become a firm favourite with fans all around the world. Recently Rob recorded a fine tribute to the band “Journey”, the band that influenced him greatly in his youth, this recording was limited to 1000 numbered units and has since sold out. In addition he provided vocals for the Rage of Angels CD “The Devil’s New Tricks”, an album that really sees his vocals reach new heights. That brings us to 2016 and Rob has completed his second solo outing “Transcendent” which sees him giving his best performance yet, his vocals have never sounded better as he sings his heart out throughout all 13 tracks. This is Melodic Rock at its very best and with band members that include Torben Enevoldsen and Tony Franklin we are set for a real treat. Guesting on guitar is Saga’s own Michael Crichton, exciting times indeed. Rob’s career is starting to really take shape, this is one monster album.
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Release date: 24th June 2016 Culver Kingz is: Produced and Mixed by : Michael Thompson Track Listing: In 1983, Michael Thompson and Billy Trudel were introduced to each other. They were brought together by manager Steve Brooks and Producer/Engineer, Wyn Davis to form a new band called Slang. They worked hard in the studio and out playing shows to get this new project noticed but nothing seemed to work in their favor. After 2 years of struggling, they started to adventure into other projects. In 1985 Billy signed his first recording contract with The City, a band on Chrysalis Records and Michael was playing guitar with Andy Fraser (Free) When Manager Alan Neven ( Guns & Roses) heard the project. He took it to Geffen Records and the band was signed. But there was a problem, Billy couldn’t sign the contract because of his prior obligations to The City. So Michael had to find another vocalist to record the album. That’s when he found Moon Calhoun to take Billy’s place. They changed the name of the band to the Michael Thompson Band and released the record in 1987. Since that time both Michael and Billy became well established in they’re music carriers, backing up some of the biggest artist in the music industry. Then in 2011, Michael and Billy re-connected and decided to finish that record they always wanted to make. That was the birth of the Culver Kingz. The band name came from both of them living in Culver City and writing and recording everything in Michaels studio. Now all these years later they are thrilled to come back full circle and do what they do best, Make music. For the past 30 years, here are just a few artist Michael Thompson, and Billy Trudel have worked with. Michaels credits are: Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, Michael Jackson, Ricky Martin, David Foster, Madonna, Michael Bolton, Babyface, En Vogue, Bobby Womack, Quincy Jones, Beyoncé, Stanley Clarke, N Sync, Toni Braxton, Rod Stewart, Vince Neil, The Scorpions, Mariah Carey, Michael McDonald Brian Adams Animal Logic and many more. Billy’s credits are: Elton John, Billy Joel, Diana Ross, Phil Collins, Bonnie Raitt, Mary J Blige, Sting, Motley Crue, Trixter, Spice Girls, Rod Stewart, Brotherhood Creed, Joe Perry, Pet Shop Boys, B B King, Brian Adams, Stevie Wonder, Sir George Martin, Bon Jovi, Back Street Boys Warpipes, The City, Public Domain and many more. If you like bands such as Matchbox 20 and Santana this album is definitely for you!!! Look for the Culver Kingz on 20th May 2016.
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Escape Music is
Proud to announce the signing of Punky Meadows Release date: 20th May 2016 Track List: Descent / The Price You Pay / Straight Shooter / Breathless And Jaded / Loaded Gun / Lost And Lonely / Home Wrecker / I Wanna Be Your Drug / Leavin Tonight / Searchin / Something Strange / Shadow Man / Shake Shake / Summertime Love / Fallen Angel / They Don’t Like My Ways (Bonus Track) / Summertime Love/Alternate Solo (Bonus Track)
PUNKY MEADOWS "Fallen Angel" is PUNKY MEADOWS
- LEAD GUITAR, RHYTHM GUITAR Punky Meadows is best known for being the iconic lead guitarist of the 70's band ANGEL on Casablanca records. ANGEL, like label mates KISS, were a huge theatrical band that while also being a headlining act in the US were also one of the biggest rock bands in Japan. Punky was a huge influence to many musicians for not only his great feel, tone and unique style of guitar playing, but also his rock star image that many have tried to emulate over the years. ANGEL released 6 albums on Casablanca before disbanding in 1981 due to the demise of the label. During his career Punky had been sought after and considered to join well-known bands such as Kiss, Aerosmith, New York Dolls and Michael Bolton. Upon the disbanding of ANGEL he occupied himself with successful business ventures while continuing to play guitar and write songs. Through social media, the fans have let him know that they want to hear from him and with his new found passion in music with close friend Danny Farrow Anniello they have written some great new songs for his solo album FALLEN ANGEL. The songs are very melodic yet diverse with catchy choruses that stick with you. Punky is playing better than ever and it really shows on this timeless collection of music. Punky wants to bring the fans the best he has and FALLEN ANGEL proves it. Also you can hear Felix Robinson on bass guitar former member of Angel also played with 707 and White Lion…..and Bobby Pantella on Drums former Raging Slab and is currently with Monster Magnet This solo album is a stunning recording, and it is everything that fans old and new will want to hear; we are all giving Punky a very warm welcoming return.
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Release date: 20th May 2016 Track list: Killer / Heroes of Heartbreak / Suckerpunch / Drama / Hearts gone bad / Sleeping with a memory / Once upon A time / Go Down / Us Fools / One for the road / Start your engine / Warhoney Vocals:
Erika, Redas Jefisovas, Sebastian Qvarfordt, Oscar Bromvall, Marcus
Blomberg, Tomas Blade, Lena Borg. Erika was born on a cold winter night in Skelleftea, Sweden where she started her own band at just 12 years old. As a teenager she relocated to Stockholm where she started to write and record demos with various rock bands. In the late 1980’s she dated and later married guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen. In 1989 Erika was offered her first deal for a record, which was called “Cold Winter Night”, an album she co-wrote which proved to be a resounding success. The following tours were a sell out and Erika became a rock singing sensation. Her marriage with Yngwie ended in 1992 and she found herself back in Stockholm and recording two more successful albums “In the arms of a stranger” and “Lady Luck”. The latter album featured the hit song “Lost in Paradise” a duet with Eurovision star Jan Johensen. In 1995 Erika recorded “When Christmas comes to town”, a song which is regarded as a Christmas classic in Sweden and then released her fourth album “Planet X” and then “Ripe” which were both very big in Japan. In 2014 Erika started to record the sixth outing which is “Deaf, Dumb and Blonde”, an album which surpasses all she has done – she still has the vocal power of her earlier releases and is set to make a big stir in the rock world once more. With production from Alex Angleflod and Erika herself the album was also recorded at Red Door studio (Abba, Beyonce, Korn). Also featured on the recording are band members from Europe, Candlemass and In Flames. During her career Erika has appeared on countless TV shows in Scandinavia and Japan as well as writing for many other well-known artists, one of those being “AOR” (Frederic Slama). In short she is a legend and this new album should see her extending her popularity to a whole new audience. Discography: Cold Winter Night (1990) / In The Arms of a Stranger (1991) / Lady Luck (1993) / Planet X (1995) / Ripe (1998) / Supertrax (compilation 2000) / Deaf Dumb and Blonde (2016)
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Catalogue Number: ESM289 Track Listing: Love Will Find a way / Like a Phoenix / I can take you / Sleepless / All I need / Angels / My Everything / I need you / Save a little love / Nah Nah Nah Tanya Rizkala: vocals / Mario Agostine: Guitars / Souheil "Sous" Moukaddem: Drums / Mike Ganime: Bbass. Produced by: Mario Agostine Epic is Canadian, American, and Lebanese Rock band . A power quartet drawing on years of experience and musicianship and playing in international venues and large arenas. They are well-known for their hard-driving energy with Tanya's powerful vocal range, Mario's melodic guitar-driven riffs, and a "rock-solid" rhythm section with "Sous" on drums and Mike on Bass. This die-hard rock formation has wasted no time getting to work as soon as they met; they have been writing, composing, and recording their upcoming Album entitled "Like A Phoenix". Their music can be described like a super hybrid of bands such as the rocky Saraya, Headpins and Witness and also displays finesse a la Heart, and Winger . It’s a long time since we heard a nice female fronted rock band as good as this quartet and they are already playing to massive audiences.. “Like a Phoenix” is being released soon by Escape Music and we hope you like this “old school” rock band who have brought that classic female fronted rock sound that we all love into the forefront of rock again..
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Catalogue Number: ESM288 Track list: Chris Ousey:
Lead vocals and backing vocals Produced by Lars Chriss and Khalil
Turk All songs by Chris Ousey and Tommy Denander except track 9 Better Time To Come by Chris Ousey, and the late Christian Wolf and Tommy Denander. Chris Ousey has had an excellent singing career that goes way back to the times of “Monroe”, “Virginia Wolf”, the fantastic “Heartland” an outstanding solo recording and more recently “Snakecharmer”. He is nicknamed “The man with the golden tonsils” and that is a fine accolade indeed for he has earned it. His effortless vocal range has gained him a top spot in the world of classic UK hard rock. Chris has already delivered us a fine solo album in 2011 called “Rhyme and Reason” with Mike Slamer at the production helm. It was very warmly received by fans and critics alike and featured some fantastic songs. The New CD “Dream Machine” is an extension of the foundations laid down four years ago: we have huge choruses, great songs and a production second to none. Chris further cements his reputation as one of the UK’s greatest vocalists with an effortless performance that will attract new fans to his already strong fanbase. With guests such as Tommy Denander, Adam Wakeman and Lars Chriss the scene is set for a great melodic rock album which will be a prime contender for album of the year. Chris is like a mature wine, his voice gets better with age…
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