New York City songstress Rachael Sage returns with her second UK solo release, ‘Chandelier’, a highly anticipated follow-up to her debut UK release ‘The Blistering Sun’, released via MPress Records on 4th August 2008.

A musically eclectic myriad of emotions, ‘Chandelier’ always comes back to one central theme: fragility. From the expansive title track “Chandelier” to the frenetic “Vertigo”, the dancer-turned-songwriter is adept at illuminating dark subject matter, including codependency, depression and adultery. On the more optimistic “My Word,” Sage enlightens us with her thespian past (she received a degree in Drama from Stanford and studied at The Actors Studio).

Download “Vertigo” MP3 sampler

Sage, who attended Manhattan’s prestigious School of American Ballet and is a self-taught pianist, already possesses a catalogue of eight solo albums and an ever-expanding fan-base Stateside and is the winner of various prestigious awards, including the 2005 Independent Music Award and the 2005 Outmusic Award.

‘Chandelier’ was recorded by John Shyloski (Johnny Winter, Diana Ross), mixed by Grammy winner Kevin Killen (Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel), and contains plenty of Sage’s signature baroque piano figures, lush string arrangements and wah-guitar licks, along with a heavy dose of improvisation by her regular touring outfit, The Sequins: Russ Johnson on trumpet (Elvis Costello), Dean Sharp on Drums (Moby), and Dave Eggar on cello (Evanescence).

There are also a slew of special guests, including guitarists Jack Petruzelli (Rufus Wainwright), Shane Fontayne (Sting) and Adam Levy (Norah Jones), as well as drummer Doug Yowell (Suzanne Vega) and bassist Todd Sickafoose (Ani DiFranco).

Rachael Sage 2008 UK tour dates:

Dates could be added or changed! Go to Rachael Sage’s Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

Monday August 4 Cambridge, UK Acoustic Cafe at The Bun Shop
1 King Street CB1 1LH; 01223 366866 9:00pm

Tuesday August 5 Manchester, UK The Thirsty Scholar
50 New Wakefield Street M1 5NP; 0161 236 6071 10:00 pm

Wednesday August 6 Glasgow, UK PivoPivo
15 Waterloo Street, G2 6AY 9:15pm

Thursday August 7 London, UK 12 Bar Club
Denmark Street, WC2H 8NL; 020 7240 2622 8:00pm

Friday August 8 Brighton, UK The Providence
130 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DA; 01273 727822

PRESS ON RACHAEL

“Warm, intelligent – Sage hits somewhere besides the bed-sit and the cellarful of noise and it does you good” – MOJO

“Genuine talent… Sage has a knack for writing melodies that will break your heart without making you feel manipulated in the process… Where there’s poignancy there’s also subtlety, unforced passion and knowing observation” – ROLLINGSTONE.COM

“Rich vocals, sparkling piano and yearning poetry…” – TIME OUT, NEW YORK

“Rachael Sage has an inimitable personal style, a balance of flamboyance and femininity… a performance as distinctive as it was entertaining.” – THE WASHINGTON POST

“Pop music isn’t crafted as expertly as this anymore and Sage is the stitch between the great rock and pop traditions of the past and what those traditions have wrought – albeit almost invisibly – in the hypermodern world of the present.” – BILLBOARD.COM

Rachael Sage Official Website
Rachael Sage MySpace

On his sophomore disc, ‘Leavetaking’ (release date: August 5, 2008 on Sarathan Records), Peter Bradley Adams builds upon the cinematic and ethereal sound of his 2006 solo debut ‘Gather Up’. The disc was recorded in Nashville and co-produced by Peter and Lex Price.

The unusual title and theme of the album is inspired by a line from the Mark Strand poem titled ‘The View’: “He’s always been drawn to the weather of leavetaking.” Peter elaborates, “the word ‘leavetaking’ resonates with me and these songs on a couple of levels – on one hand there’s the call to wander and the choice one makes to search and to live in that motion; and on the other hand the price of that choice, and the feeling of loss that accompanies it. And it’s a theme you hear in so many traditional songs… some of them traveling songs, or gospel songs, or love songs… they’ve got that old longing in them that I’m really drawn to.”

In 2006, Peter left Los Angeles, moved to Nashville and immediately began his collaboration with Lex Price. “I had met Lex on tour a year earlier, and after hearing him play and the music he’s produced, I knew I wanted to work with him.”

Assembling a small group of Nashville players, the duo recorded a bulk of the songs in two separate Decembers – ‘06 and ‘07. For the mixing, Peter called upon Kevin Killen (Peter Gabriel, U2, Elvis Costello).

“We mixed in Los Angeles at the studio of TV composer Mike Post, a friend and supporter since eastmountainsouth. Kevin came out and we mixed 13 songs in seven days. But at the end, I felt that only nine fit this album. So I decided this was just going to have to be a short record and not apologize for it.”

With the exception of the instrumental track “Song For Viola,” Adams builds upon the signature vocal harmonies crafted with Kat Maslisch as the duo eastmountainsouth and carried to his solo debut (featuring Epic Records artists Sarah Bareillis on “Teresa” and Susie Suh). Peter explains, “[Nashville singer/songwriter] Katie Herzig and I met on the “American Songwriter” magazine tour in 2007 and I knew she would be perfect for these songs. But I also feel like I’m using harmony vocals differently than I have in the past – more as a support and color to the melody than a clearly defined 2nd part. It’s a progression from my previous record and eastmountainsouth.”

Also included is a reinterpretation of the song “So You Are To Me,” originally recorded by eastmountainsouth. Adams wrote it for his sister’s wedding, and it lives on as a popular wedding song to this day. “It was difficult for me to re-record the song because Kat sang it so beautifully. But, I think Lex and I found another way into it, so I’m really glad it’s on the record.”

‘Leavetaking’ is the sophomore solo release for Peter Bradley Adams and his debut for Seattle-based Sarathan Records, also home to Two Loons For Tea and Abra Moore.

Sarathan Records

Peter Bradley Adams MySpace
Peter Bradley Adams Official Website

Nathalie Nahai released her much-anticipated second album, ‘Fortune Teller’ on 28th July 2008 via Fuzzy Muskrat Records. Recorded in the Southern State of Georgia, USA, the influence of folk and bluegrass music is clear and her collaboration with other blues musicians lends this album a depth and variety enriched further by the simple production style.

Early press reviews for the album have raved about ‘the raw acoustics…delicate melodies and beautiful structures’ (Maverick), and the ‘pure quality’ (Acoustic) of the record.

Watch Nathalie Nahai video – A short film:

Born in London to her half Iranian/half French mother, and Gibraltarian father of Scottish descent, Nathalie has been developing her musical talent all her life. Having been classically trained in violin and self-taught on guitar (which leads to a rather unique plucking style), she writes her own music and has been performing in the UK and US for the past three years, both solo and with her band.

Whilst studying at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design (London), she travelled to the States to record her debut album with multi-platinum Grammy award winning producer Don McCollister. It was released in 2006 on her label, Fuzzy Muskrat Records (FMR), and received critical acclaim.

Her broad and varied life experiences have evolved Nathalie to become far more than just a singer-songwriter. Everything down from the creative packaging, which has that rarely seen attention to detail, to her clear direction of style, paying homage to Victoriana through to 20s Parisian chic, Nathalie conjures up a romanticism of innocence lost. Musically, Nathalie can also be described as a poet; as a lyricist she has developed a deep sense of dialect which is both stirring and heartfelt. She is without contemporaries.

The album, ‘Fortune Teller’, is personal in a far more spiritual way. The imagery of the album is taken from two Tarot cards (from the ‘Rider Waite’ deck); the front and back illustrations are from ‘The World’ card, and the inside of the CD is ‘The Lovers card’. Nathalie’s relationship with Tarot reading has its history; she first had a reading whilst at university, and fascinated, the girl reading said she had skills to become a good reader if she should choose to learn. So as time went on, Nathalie taught herself, went on a tarot course, and eventually ending up working at a holistic shop in Birmingham called ‘Zen’. Over the next two years, she read there at weekends, after which she moved to London.

This multitude of creative forces have helped to shape the artist that is Nathalie Nahai; in 2007 she performed to packed houses in her first UK tour, and returned to the US to record her second album. This is ‘Fortune Teller’.

Press for the debut album:

“With exploratory lyrics, soaring melodies and clear vocals, Nahai stands poised to guide a whole new generation through the pain and joy of the game of life” – Performing Songwriter

“A beautiful debut which showcases an amazing talent… Her heart-breakingly beautiful voice is almost hypnotic” – Maverick

Nathalie Nahai MySpace
Nathalie Nahai Official Website

On July 31st, 2008, after returning from her Morrocan tour that saw Empire ISIS perform in front of 100,000 people at the Casa Festival amongst other dates, ISIS proved yet again why she is the Empress of urban music in Canada.

Being her 9th nomination this year, Empire ISIS won her 5th award for Best Out of Province Artist at the 2008 Toronto Independent Music Awards in the Phoenix Concert Theater.

This Gangstress leads the way as one of “the” breakthrough artists of 2008 as she travels to NYC for her next award nomination at the Underground Urban Music Awards; this time for Best International Artist of the Year.

Empire ISIS’ upcoming release ‘Sound The Trumpets’ on Monumental-HLM-Universal is getting rave reviews as the must have albums of 2008. With the release date set for August 26th, 2008, and the recent single “Don’t Go Home” hitting the airwaves, there is much anticipation to see what will be next for Empire ISIS to conquer.

For music and more information, go to:

Empire ISIS MySpace

The goal of Moneyland is to raise awareness of serious economic issues facing Americans today through a thoughtful selection of six new (or newly recorded) songs, mixed with eight neglected gems and classic favorites that offer a hard-hitting look at today’s economic injustice.

In addition to songs from the Del McCoury Band, the album features songs from Marty Stuart, Merle Haggard, Emmylou Harris, Bruce Hornsby along with The Fairfield Four, Chris Knight and others.

Fortunately, the concept behind Moneyland isn’t a novel one; there are many great organizations that have been fighting these battles for a long time.

Del’s goal with Moneyland is to draw that connection between the sentiments of each song and the organizations that are dedicated to the issues dealt with in the songs.

It is the intention of each of these organizations to gather inspired individuals together for a greater good. We believe that music–especially this music–is a great way to start the process; we hope it will inspire listeners to move from awareness to action.

Please visit this special Moneyland Page to hear the music and find out more information about the organizations that we’re speaking about. Each song offers something special; for example, listen to “Farmer’s Blues” performed by Marty Stuart and Merle Haggard and find out more about organizations who are on the front lines of the battle to save the American Farmer. Or listen to “Carry Me Across the Mountain” performed by Dan Tyminski with Alison Krauss and learn about how the National Rural Health Association is addressing the health care and medical issues of rural America.

In addition to all of this, IFC (Independent Film Co.) have teamed up with Moneyland for a contest that inspires filmmakers to react and respond to the issues addressed on the album. Click the video below for more information about the IFC contest and visit www.livinginmoneyland.com for more information about the project.

Watch video

Living In Moneyland Official Website

Ray LaMontagne, one of the most distinct and recognizable voices in music, announced his first North American tour in support of his new album ‘Gossip In The Grain’ due out October 14, 2008 on RCA Records. The six week tour starts September 30 in Indianapolis.

October 14 is the new release date for the album as LaMontagne, struck by inspiration, went back into the studio last week to record additional material. The new album can be pre-ordered at www.raylamontagne.com and the new track listing is below:

1. You Are The Best Thing
2. Let It Be Me
3. Sarah
4. I Still Care For You
5. Winter Birds
6. Meg White
7. Hey Me, Hey Mama
8. Henry Nearly Killed Me (It’s A Shame)
9. A Falling Through
10. Gossip In The Grain

Recorded with returning producer, Ethan Johns in Box, England, and touching upon a range of styles and musical settings – spanning pastoral folk, railroad blues, front porch country, and plangent balladry – ‘Gossip In The Grain’ proves to be his most creative and emotionally expansive collection to date.

Whereas LaMontagne’s two previous albums, ‘Trouble’ and ‘Till The Sun Turns Black’, were largely solo affairs, with Johns serving as multi-tasking instrumentalist, ‘Gossip In The Grain’ sees him joined by members of his touring band, bassist Jennifer Condos and guitarist Eric Heywood (with Johns largely handling drum duties). Along with his band members, LaMontagne is also joined on two tracks – “A Falling Through” and “I Still Care For You” – by singer/songwriter Leona Naess.

Naess will be the opener for the entire tour and is touring in support of her new album ‘Thirteens’ out September 23, 2008 on Verve Forecast.

Ray LaMontagne with Leona Naess 2008 tour dates:

Dates could be added or changed! Go to Ray LaMontagne’s Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

September 30 Murat Theatre Indianapolis, IN
October 1 Chicago Theatre Chicago, IL
October 3 Union Theatre Madison, WI
October 4 State Theatre Minneapolis, MN
October 6 Royal Oak Music Theatre Royal Oak, MI
October 7 Queen Elizabeth Theatre Toronto, ON
October 9 Opera House Boston, MA
October 10 Opera House Boston, MA
October 11 Radio City Music Hall New York, NY
October 13 Keswick Theatre Glenside, PA
October 14 The Strathmore Music Center Washington, DC
October 16 Meymandi Concert Hall Raleigh, NC
October 17 Bijou Theatre Knoxville, TN
October 18 The Tabernacle Atlanta, GA
October 19 Ryman Auditorium Nashville, TN
October 21 Uptown Theatre Kansas City, MO
October 23 Verizon Wireless Theatre Houston, TX
October 24 Majestic Theatre Dallas, TX
October 25 Paramount Theatre Austin, TX
October 27 Macky Auditorium Boulder, CO
October 28 Murray Theatre Salt Lake City, UT
October 30 Wiltern Theatre Los Angeles, CA
November 1 Spreckels Theatre San Diego, CA
November 3 Paramount Theatre Oakland, CA
November 5 Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Portland, OR
November 6 McDonald Theatre Eugene, OR
November 8 Vogue Theatre Vancouver, BC
November 9 Marion Oliver McCaw Hall Seattle, WA

Ray LaMontagne Official Website

Nestled between the majestic Koolau mountain range on the east side of Honolulu, Hawaii, northeast of Diamond Head State Monument on the north and alongside Maunalua Bay and the blue Pacific Ocean on the south, is the Waialae Country Club, an expansive private PGA golf course with breathtaking vistas, lush Bermuda grass, greens and fairways. With palm trees and other tropical vegetation which dot the layout and a natural stream that crosses the course and empties into the bay, it would be the perfect venue for any performer. But to Nicole Hart and Lance Ong it is an idyllic backdrop for their wedding.

Nicole Hart and Lance Ong will take their marriage vows August 8th, 2008 (at 8am) just after the sun breaks over the horizon from their view on the beach. This panorama will provide a snapshot moment and the sound of circling seagulls and waves lapping on the beach will create a soundtrack that will stir their memories for a lifetime together.

To marry they waited for the perfect date, a date with a special significance. To the Chinese the number 8 symbolizes infinity – it has neither a beginning nor an end. So for Hart and Ong, August 8th, 2008 (08/08/08) was the day they chose.

“Many of you thought we were already married! Well, if so, it is because Lance and I have been a team right from the beginning, and we are now making it official!” writes Hart in a glowing wedding announcement to her many fans.

The bride will wear an island-style peacock blue and gold embroidered Tadashi gown purchased for the occasion. The groom will wear a beautiful white embroidered shirt purchased from the Experience Music Project in Seattle, Washington.

Why was the Waialae Country Club, Honolulu, chosen to hold the wedding and reception? According to Hart, “I had been to Hawaii previously and so loved it, that when Lance asked me to marry him, there was never any doubt that we would hold the ceremony there. Also, Lance’s family had all lived there for some time, so they know the local folks and it was very easy and economically sound to do it there, rather than fly everyone over here to New York. Besides, it’s just beautiful! I hope to retire there someday! Doesn’t everyone? I can always hope!”

Nicole Hart and Lance Ong are members of Nicole Hart and The NRG Band, fronted by Hart. The band comprises vocals, bass, keyboards, drums and guitar. The band’s sound is described as a mixture of blues, funk, rhythm and blues and soul. They have played to rave reviews by fans and critics alike wherever they have played. They will wrap up an east coast tour which will take them from Ohio to as far south as Mobile, Alabama, the Florida panhandle and South Florida, then back home to New York again before they jet across country for their “Big Day” on the Honolulu beach.

When they return to the east coast to assume their lives as husband and wife, Hart and Ong will schedule recording their upcoming studio release with Blues Leaf Records which they hope to release Spring of 2009.

About the Bride and Groom

Nicole Hart
Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Nicole’s timeless, powerful, intoxicating voice is beautifully soul/sweet – silky, then gritty – classic yet absolutely contemporary – and she is renowned for her electrifying stage presence. Nicole’s impressive resume includes work with a variety of music greats such as Harry Belafonte, Billy Joel, Michael Bolton, Oscar Winning Film Director Jonathan Demme, Richard Bona, Drew Zingg, Chuck Berry, & Bo Diddley; she has opened for Bernard Allison, Odetta, E.C. Scott and Richie Havens. She has the unique distinction of being the first-ever Caucasian singer for the Hall of Fame Rhythm and Blues super group, the Shirelles.

Lance Ong
Lance Ong, keyboards, vocals, musical director is 2nd generation Chinese-American. Lance Ong was part of a team that produced, wrote and arranged over 700 songs and whose credits include a Grammy Award-winning record by Andre Crouch and recordings with David Sanborn, The Pointer Sisters, Grand Funk Railroad, Michael Murphy, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Anne Murray, Johnny Halliday and Sylvie Vartan, Trini Lopez, Erykah Badu and many others. His masterful command of the keyboards is undisputed.

The Wedding site:
Waialae Country Club
4997 Kahala Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816
Ceremony will be held 8am ceremony on the beach!

To offer the newly weds best wishes:
Nicole Hart and Lance Ong
PureNRG@NRGband.net

The NRG Band Official Website

If you happen to be in the Oxford area this Sunday, August 3, 2008 – be sure to check out Behaveya playing at The Exeter Hall.

I was lucky enough to see the band play a few weeks ago at The Temple Bar. Their ages are from 10-17, so if you have kids that are starting to play music themselves, bring them along if they’re looking for inspiration, because this talented young band ROCKS! (Of course, if you do plan to bring your kids, check with The Exeter Hall first.)

Behaveya plays old punk and rock covers as well as originals.

EXETER HALL
Oxford, UK
3rd of August at 4pm

For music and more information, go to:

Behaveya MySpace

By: Jenny May

MySpace Music is proud to announce that Bun B will be performing a free show for his MySpace friends at Torch in Dallas, TX on August 1, 2008 – a show being powered by Saints Row 2.

Celebrating his recently released album ‘II Trill,’ Bun B will be returning to his home state of Texas to showcase his newly-christened material. Attendance is free for 21+ adults for the performance on a first come, first served basis starting at 10 p.m. on August 1.

Emerging from Port Arthur, Texas, as one-half of UGK (Underground Kingz) alongside the late Pimp C, Bun B has also made a name for himself as a hugely-successful solo artist in the hip-hop game. The three years between his debut solo album ‘Trill’ and the present time have been turbulent for him but have provided inspiration for the wordplay featured on the highly-anticipated sequel ‘II Trill.’ Since Pimp C’s death in 2007, Bun B’s solo career has taken on an entirely new meaning, and the new album, along with his continued popularity, are a testament to the type of impact he continues to have on Dirty South music and beyond.

Featuring guest shots from the likes of Lil Wayne, Sean Kingston and others, ‘II Trill’ is a statement that Bun B is able to carry on the spirit of UGK despite the absence of his partner in rhyme.

Torch Dallas
Torch Dallas MySpace
5631 Sears Street
Dallas, TEXAS 75206
214.418.1511

Please visit Bun B’s MySpace page for the very latest news items, tour dates and media:

Bun B MySpace

MySpace Release Shows sponsored by Saints Row 2

Guitar Center Announces Launch of World’s Largest Drum Competition – Guitar Center Drum-Off ‘08

World’s Largest Drum Competition Celebrates 20th Anniversary Offering Grand Prize Worth Over $45,000

For 20 years, Guitar Center has been committed to providing drummers across the country the opportunity to pursue their musical aspirations and achieve their dreams by way of the world’s largest drum competition: Guitar Center Drum-Off.

Starting August 1st, drummers can sign up for their chance to win over $45,000 in cash and prizes, joining over 5,000 drummers from across the US to compete for the title of Guitar Center’s Drum-Off Champion ‘08.

Like all Guitar Center music programs, Drum-Off is designed to provide developing artists with support-based opportunities that vastly improve the potential for their success as professional musicians. Drum-Off inspires up-and-coming drummers to further their musical aspirations, while at the same time encouraging the local music community and providing a platform for local musicians to network and be discovered.

Guitar Center’s Drum-Off ‘08 champion will win an impressive package of prizes, including $25,000 cash, a Roland TD-20 kit, and a custom designed drum kit by DW, Pearl, Gretsch, Tama, or Orange Country Drums as well as a drum, stick, cymbal, and drum head endorsement deals, be featured in Modern Drummer magazine, and in a Guitar Center ad campaign, along with a VIP appearance @ NAMM 2009 and shopping sprees with Levi’s, Converse and Guitar Center. A Monster Energy Drink endorsement deal is also part of the prize package, making the total prize package worth over $45,000. In addition, Sabian, Zildjian, Remo, Pro-Mark, Vic Firth, Evans and Rhythm Tech are all proud sponsors of Drum-Off 08.

Several winning alumni from Guitar Center’s previous Drum-Off competitions have gone on to have incredible drumming careers, including Cora “CC” Dunham (Prince; Drum-Off ‘02 Champ), Eric Moore (Bobby Brown, Sly and The Family Stone, Infectious Grooves; Drum-Off ‘03 Champ), Tony Royster Jr. (Jay Z; Drum-Off ‘95 Champ) and Thomas Pridgen (The Mars Volta), who became the Guitar Center Drum-Off champion in 1993 when he was just 9 years old!

How It Works:
Sign-ups for the preliminary rounds of the Drum-Off competition begin August 1, 2008 and run on a “first-come, first-serve” basis, with a maximum of 30 registrants per store. Contestants must sign up with a Guitar Center drum department associate at their local store — no phone or Internet sign-ups are available.

Local competitions start September 23rd, 2008 in all 214 Guitar Center locations from nationwide. One winner from each store will be chosen to move up to district competitions (24 locations), followed by regionally hosted semi-finals (6 locations) and culminating in the final championship Drum-Off in Los Angeles in January of 2009 (exact date and venue TBD).

COMPETITION DATES:
STORE PRELIMS: September 23rd, September 30th, and October 7th, 2008
STORE FINALS: October 14th
DISTRICT FINALS: November 4th
REGIONAL FINALS: December 2nd
GRAND FINALS: January 2009

Following the regional finals on December 6, 2008 finalists will be headed for Los Angeles in January, where they will perform before a panel of celebrity judges (past judges include, Stewart Copeland (The Police), Travis Barker, ?uestlove (The Roots), Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters), Stephen Perkins (Jane’s Addiction), Josh Freese (NIN), Kenny Aronoff, Joey Castillio (Queens of the Stoneage) Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath), Steve Smith (Journey) and Alan White (Yes) in the final Guitar Center Drum-Off competition to see who will become Drum-Off ‘08 CHAMPION.

Guitar Center Official Website

New York’s O’Death is scheduled to release their new album, ‘Broken Hymns, Limbs and Skins’ on October 28th, 2008 via Kemado Records, their new U.S. home. The album, which was written over a span of three years, was co-produced with Alex Newport (Two Gallants, the Locust).

Since 2007’s buzzed-about Head Home, the quintet, which contains vocalist/guitarist Greg Jamie, vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Gabe Darling, fiddle player Bob Pycior, bassist Newman and drummer David Rogers-Berry have evolved the possessed americana-meets-gypsy-punk of recent years into a more urgent, unrelenting celebration of life, death and everything in between.

Catch them live in August/September.

O’Death 2008 Tour Dates:

Dates could change! Go to O’Death’s Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

August 13 – Cargo – London, UK
August 15 – Green Man Festival – Wales
August 16 – Brucken Festival – Nuremberg
August 17 – West Germany, Berlin
August 28 – Le Divan Orange – Montreal, Quebec
August 29 – Bar El Passo Saloon – Rouyn, Noranda, Quebec
August 30 – Bar El Passo Saloon – Rouyn, Noranda, Quebec
September 10 – Rocks Off Concert Cruise on the Half Moon – New York, NY
September 11 – Ad Lib Cafe – Lancaster, PA
September 12 – Olde Club @ Swathmore College – Swarthmore, PA
September 13 – Alfred University Knights Club – Alfred, NY

For more O’Death info, visit:
O’Death MySpace

The Ultrasonics will be launching on to the pop scene on August 25th, 2008 with the release of their debut single “Perfect Girl”.

Already championed by the likes of Popjustice (the UK’s number one pop music site) and EQ, “Perfect Girl” is a true electropop gem. The track draws influences from classic ’80s pop, with a nod towards the synth-laden sounds of The Human League and Depeche Mode.

“Perfect Girl” acts as a perfect introduction to the group’s fusion of retro and 21st Century electro.

And the band’s front girl Johanna Lee Gervin is the perfect electro princess. Striking and sexy, oozing a fierce electro-punk attitude, Johanna has superstar quality and when she’s on stage she owns it.

In the run up to their single release, The Ultrasonics have been performing at some of London’s coolest venues including Cafe de Paris and Revue Bar in Soho. You can catch the band as they continue touring the UK throughout the summer, making appearances at a number of high-profile events such as Manchester Pride.

The Ultrasonics – “Perfect Girl” will be available to download from iTunes and other major digital stores on August 25th, 2008.

Song of the Day: “Thunderous disco polish…top British pop.” – Popjustice

“An absolutely stunning pop song… some of the best production we’ve heard all year… we predict big things for this track” – Electronically Yours

It won’t be surprising to me to hear The Ultrasonics at the top of the pop charts soon” – EQ

The Ultrasonics Official Website
MySpace

Mink is a high energy, hard working rock band formed in 2006 with members hailing from the US and Australia. In a short time, they’ve already written more than 60 songs (30 of them in one intense three-week stretch), recorded their debut album in just four weeks and have played shows with KISS, Perry Farrell, Angels & Airwaves and festivals such as Lollapalooza and the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan.

Their first single, “Talk to Me,” has been receiving airplay in the US and their songs have appeared on TV.

Mink is one of the hottest up and coming rock bands on the scene – and is one to watch!

Members are: Neal Carlson (vocals) from New York, Stella Mozgawa (drums), Nick Maybury (guitar) and Grant Fitzpatrick (bass) from Australia.

Download MP3: “Talk To Me” remix

Grant Fitzpatrick from Mink exclusive interview:

Jenny May: With Neal being from New York and Stella, Nick and Grant from Australia, where and how did you meet to eventually form the band?

Grant Fitz: Nick and I went to NY to meet Neal who was writing with a friend of ours. We wrote some songs and jammed and then did a show, which was a lot of fun. From there we went home to Australia with Neal coming shortly after. Nick introduced us to Stella who we fell in love with straight away. We wrote some more and toured and made an album with Spitfire Music who always believed in us from the beginning in New York. So the band was formed in New York and Sydney really. They are both special places for us.

Have you played many shows in Australia and do you plan to spend time there touring? Do you visit often?

We’ve toured the East coast 3 times with different bands and we loved it. Stella is there now actually and Nick and I visited last summer. I would love to spend some time touring there again, ideally in the summer. The whole country turns into one giant bbq/beach party/festival in the summer. You can’t help but have a good time.

How was it decided that you would call your band Mink?

We thought it was sleek and sexy and nobody had any better names so we all agreed on Neal’s idea.

How many shows did you play with KISS? How did that go?

We played 2 shows with KISS and had a blast. Gene and Paul were great to meet. The first record I bought was Dynasty and I was a big fan when I was a kid so it was weird also but they were great and their audience was even better.

Who are your rock heroes?

Between all of us there are some collective heroes and they would be Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa, John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Perry Farrell, Flea, Brian Eno, David Bowie, Captain Beefheart, Tom Waits, Frank Black, George Harrison, Neil Young, PJ Harvery, Nick Cave and Bjork.

All time favorite rock song(s)?

Jimi Hendrix ‘Voodoo Child’, The Beatles ‘Revolution’, Frank Zappa’s ‘Muffin Man’, Jane’s Addiction ‘Mountain Song’.

Your song “Pressure Pressure” was featured in ESPN’s 2006 Major League baseball playoffs coverage. Are you baseball fans? If so, which team(s) do you support? Do you have a favorite sport?

Neal likes baseball all sports basically. I’ve been to a Yankees game and may go to another one tomorrow actually but I prefer one day cricket.

Stella is a great drummer. Who are her musical influences?

Her influences as a drummer are probably Keith Moon, Steven Drozd, Levon Helm, John Bonham and a lot of other players like Billy Cobham and Jeff Pocarro and also bands like Yo la Tnago, Devo, & Neu! She is a huge Bjork fan and is totally into Timberland’s production techniques and music.

What club or bar would you recommend to a friend who likes to party, and is willing to travel anywhere?

The Chateau Marmont in La is always fun …

You have a lot of video footage on your YouTube profile, which is great for your fans. Do you have a favorite “Rockumentary”?

There are some really good ones but we were watchin ‘You’re Gonna Miss Me’ the Roky Erickson Story on our last tour. The Last Waltz is a favourite of mine and Stella’s.

Have you acted in movies? Do you have any interest in acting in films?

I’ve acted before but not in a movie. I’ve worked on films and love to edit and direct. I had the opportunity to direct our last 2 videos and loved the experience and would like to do more. Acting in films would be something I would be interested in for sure, why not. I actually think that Neal is a natural at it. We started making a horror movie when we started recording the album in 2006. Neal was the lead and was so good and naturally funny also. Stella is a huge fan of film also.

Your music has appeared on TV – has your music appeared in films?

Not yet but we just submitted some songs for a new Darren Aronofsky film yesterday. Fingers crossed.

What are your thoughts on the prospect of one day having your music in video games?

I grew up playing video games so I’m into it. Music complements everything we do or participate in. It’s everwhere, why not a video game. Guitar Hero or Rock Band would be insane to have a song in. Or even just some crazy racing car game would be cool.

Any particular band antics happen on stage during a night of playing?

Not always but sometimes someone will fart and you’re mid song and it hits you and you get a ckeeky look from the purpitrator from across the stage. Stella likes to get out from behind her drums and take the mic while Neal tries to keep in time on the drums. That usually cracks me up.

Who tends to be the instigator?

It can be anyone at any time.

Your album was recorded in just four weeks. Where did you record? What was your recording process – did you record live?

We recorded at a studio called Radio Star Studios in Weed California in the north near Oregon. It’s situated under a volcano called Mt Shasta. Sylvia Massey has built a complex of studios and housing so that at any time 3 or 4 bands could be working up there, recording and writing. We recorded as much live as possible but it was a very creative time and ideas kept flowing so there was over dubbing happening all the time also. The main studio is an old theatre with some great vintage console’s and outboard gear. It’s very laid back and friendly and we had a lot of fun there. We shared our time there with COG and had a lot of fun hanging with those lads.

You were recently in Japan for the Fuji Rock Festival. How did it go? Were you able to watch other acts’ sets?

Fuji is the best festival I’ve seen. We had a blast and loved being in Japan. We have some sort of affinity with the place. We always wanted to go there as a band. So much fun was had although it was a very quick visit. I saw Grand Master Flash, Mongol 800, Asian Dub foundation and the Zutons. All were great and our set was a lot of fun after having a short break from touring. See ya’ll back out there soon!

Thank you!

Thanks Jenny.

Grant Fitz.

For music, tour dates and more information, go to:

MySpace
Mink UK
Mink Official Website

A collective win for mankind! Vocalist Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist, drummer Chris Dangerous, bassist Dr. Matt Destruction, and guitarists Nicholaus Arson and Vigilante Carlstroem have listened to your pleas. The Hives will be returning to various raised platforms on which theatrical performances are given to bestow their sheer brilliance, incomparable riffs and rugged good looks in honor of the greatest stack of songs ever recorded, ‘The Black and White Album’.

Long time partners in good times, California’s own Eagles of Death Metal, will maximize the bang for your hard earned buck as co-headliners (US dates only). Willowz will open the festivities.

Women will weep. Men will rejoice. Children will dance. The Hives will rule.

Well played, mankind. Well played.

The Hives & Eagles of Death Metal Co-Headline September 2008 tour dates:

Dates could change! Go to The Hives’ Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

Willowz to open

9/16 Austin, TX Stubb’s
9/17 Dallas, TX House of Blues
9/19 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
9/20 San Diego, CA Street Scene
9/21 Anaheim, CA The Grove
9/22 Ventura, CA Ventura Theatre
9/23 San Francisco, CA The Warfield
9/24 Los Angeles, CA The Mayan
9/25 Los Angeles, CA The Mayan

The Hives in South America:

9/05 Brasilia, BRAZIL Porao Do Rock Festival
9/06 San Paulo, BRAZIL Orloff Festival
9/07 Rio de Janeiro, BRAZIL Circo Voadar
9/09 Santiago, CHILE Teatro Caupolican
9/13 Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA Lawn Tennis Club

The Hives Official Website

2008 is sure to be a year like no other for POP Montreal. This year’s festival will feature artists like the legendary Burt Bacharach and New Orleans Soul Queen Irma Thomas, alongside poetic-punk troubadour Nick Cave, the seminal and brilliant WIRE, and the godfathers of experimental electronic psych Silver Apples.

POP Montreal International Music Festival takes place October 1-5, 2008.

Also appearing will be the single most important benchmark for a cappella music, Brooklyn’s The Persuasions, and other stand-outs including Canadian rap legend, Michie Mee, upstarts like Black Kids, Ratatat, Dan Deacon and The Dodos, as well as Hot Chip, Dark Meat, Great Lake Swimmers, Beach House, Vetiver, T. Raumschmiere, Teki Latex, Ste Catherines, Liam Finn, and reclusive Neil Young collaborator Elyse Weinberg (she’s awesome, Google her, or check her out on eMusic.)

In addition to all the amazing music, there will be a specially commissioned composers series with, among others, original pieces by Socalled, performed at porn theatre Cinema L’Amour. This year, POP introduces its very first gear exchange and record shop, the enigmatic art of Mingering Mike and also…Kids POP!

POP…OR POOP?

You can also participate in the fun now, by voting for the SIRIUS Fan Choice award.

The top 3 artists with the most favorable pop-to-poop ratio (more pop, less poop) will be playing the SIRIUS Satellite Radio stage during the festival. Just click on the widget below to vote POP (woo! i like this!) or POOP (not so much):

KIDS POP (NEW THIS YEAR!)
This year, kids and youth can explore Montreal’s innovative cultural scene at Kids Pop. A variety of shows, demonstrations and workshops will be offered that connect artists with young folks in order to share skills, encourage artistic expression and enjoy Montreal’s cultural offerings.

PUCES POP
In its 4th year, Puces Pop is a DIY festival that celebrates independent creation. It features a marketplace of handmade goods, a record sale and gear swap, a series of free arts & crafts workshops and a mini-seminar on business skills for self-employed artists. And it’s all kicked off by a fashion show with a $2000 prize!

ART POP
The Visual Arts component of Pop Montreal, Art Pop’s purpose is to showcase fun and exciting artists that resonate with the youthful energy of its musical counterpart. Look out for some wild technologies, superheroes, Japanese copycats, French activists, teenage passion, digital vandalism and crazy good times in general. And cute cats, too.

SYMPOSIUM – Talk Music to Me!
A music conference like no other: all programming is artist-driven, interdisciplinary, and reflective of Montreal’s diverse and lively culture. They will be bringing together a discerning and savvy force of thinkers and artists to present panel discussions, keynote interviews, listening sessions, as well as hands-on workshops and round-tables.

FILM POP
More musically inclined than ever before, with Paris’ Vincent Moon’s views on All Tomorrow’s Parties, workshops on writing music for film, rockabilly the 514 way, NFB 3-D reveries, and some headlining surprises, you’ll definitely want to be watching more attentively during this 5th edition of Pop’s cinematic offspring.

POP MONTREAL 2008 CONFIRMED ARTISTS:
Burt Bacharach, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Hot Chip, The Persuasions, Dan Deacon, Ratatat, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, Cori Bishop (aka Elyse Weinberg), United Steel Workers of Montreal, The Dodos, Liam Finn, Wintersleep, Dark Meat, Headlights, Playdoe, Dabaaz, Kim, Eric Belanger, The Veils, WIRE, Black Kids, St Catherines, Vetiver, Silver Apples, Thomas Function, Julie Doiron, Chad Van Gaalen, Dominique Grange & Jacques Tardi, Great Lake Swimmers, Katie Moore, Socalled, Woodhands, You Say Party! We Say Die!, Sam Shalabi, Gatineau, Jason Collett, Chocolat, Irma Thomas, Wedding Present, Evangelicals, Beach House, Jana Hunter, Cex, Teeth Mountain, Teki Latex, D’Urbervilles, Michie Mee, and so much more…

Passes on sale now and tickets for individual shows also available.

For details and updates, please visit:

Pop Montreal Official Website
Pop Montreal MySpace