Alexander Laurence's Blog, page 1966
December 20, 2016
Nashville Musician Jessi Zazu (Those Darlins) Announces New Project and Medical Bill Fundraising Effort
Nashville Musician Jessi Zazu Announces New Project And Medical Bill Fundraising Effort
The Former Lead Singer Of Those Darlins Has Recently Been Diagnosed With Metastatic Cancer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Former lead singer of local band Those Darlins Jessi Zazu has been facing serious health issues since she was diagnosed with cancer seven months ago. This October, she learned that her cancer had metastasized, and her fight against the disease will last longer than originally anticipated. To help cover the cost of living expenses and bills, she has launched a fundraising website at https://www.youcaring.com/jessizazu-718972.
Despite her diagnosis, Zazu has been working on art and music projects, including a new album. Please find her official statement here:
As most of you know, Those Darlins decided to call it quits as a band in early 2016. We all mutually felt it was time to take a step back and pursue other projects, and it has been a really good decision for all of us. My plan was to continue on exploring my own musical path with my bandmate Linwood Regensburg, and we had a baby project in the oven even as we were finishing up our final blow-out tour with Those Darlins (which was a blast!).
Although I was in poor health during the span of that tour, I never would have guessed that a week after I arrived back to my home in Nashville, Tennessee I would be hospitalized and diagnosed with stage 2 cervical cancer. It came as a big shock, and my plans for making music and forging ahead in my art career suddenly took a back seat. I decided to keep the news relatively private, because I was hoping I could complete the treatment, beat the cancer, and move on from a temporary road block.
Unfortunately, this November, I found out that the cancer had already metastasized and spread through my lymphatic system, probably before I was first diagnosed. This is typically what they would call a "no cure scenario", but I refuse to believe that to be the case. I feel healthy, happy, hopeful, determined, positive, and full of sparks and nails. In a sense: there's a tumor growing on my body, I don't know what lays in store, but I ain't afraid anymore. Yes, I guess I am a mystic mind after all.

In these next few months I plan to continue recording with Linwood and looking forward to a musical future with the world. I also am working on a visual art show about my experiences this year.
Zazu elaborates further on her experience and new project in this video.

Published on December 20, 2016 10:06
200+ Rock Stars/Icons come together for WE ARE NOT AFRAID video
WE ARE NOT AFRAID -- Organized by Steve Weitzman, We Are Not Afraid
Enlists 200+ Rock Stars and Cultural Icons to Stand Against Violence and Hate and to Raise Funds toSupport Global Refugee Organizations
A Positive Statement in a Negative World, says Director and Rock Photographer Bob Gruen

(New York, NY) - Keith Richards, Robert Plant, Bruce Springsteen, Robert De Niro, Sting, Ringo Starr, Patti Smith and Yoko Ono have come together with 200 other rock legends and cultural heroes to declare We Are Not Afraid , in a new video targeted to raise funds for victims of religious and political violence around the world. Creator/organizer Steve Weitzman says We Are Not Afraid gives a voice to those whose voices often go unheard. Originally created as a 4-minute video, so many notables signed on that it needed to be lengthened. Enter legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen who expanded it into an 8-minute video. "It's a positive statement in a negative world," says Gruen who served as director. "I hope it becomes something that inspires people around the world to do their own versions. You shouldn't go through life being afraid." Weitzman says, "my long-time friend Bob Gruen -- who was a very early supporter of this project and brought it to Yoko Ono's attention, resulting in her becoming the campaign's very first participant -- immediately offered to put together the long form We Are Not Afraid video when told of our plan. And for that we are deeply grateful." Set to a catchy tune, "We Are Not Afraid" penned by Nigerian singer-songwriter Majek Fashek, the music video shows all the stars holding signs bearing the slogan We Are Not Afraid. It is available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon and other major outlets with all proceeds being donated to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Human Rights Watch (HRW). The campaign has enlisted a group of participants that reads like a Who's Who including Dr. Jane Goodall, Iggy Pop, Peter Gabriel, Jackson Browne, Chuck D, Galactica, Joe Walsh, Bonnie Raitt, Darlene Love, Debbie Harry, Dion, Elvis Costello, Grandmaster Flash, Jeff Tweedy, Shep Gordon and Susan Sarandon. The original 4-minute video directed by Kevin Godley had to be expanded to accommodate the flood of rock stars that wanted to take part in the campaign.All are lending their voices in advocacy for the "We Are Not Afraid" campaign in response to the global refugee crisis and victims of religious and political violence. "We're alarmed by the hateful and dangerous rhetoric coming from politicians across Europe and the United States," said Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch. "We must not allow the rising threat of racism and hate to violate our most basic principles of humanity. We're moved and grateful that so many artists are speaking out and standing with us for human rights." David Millband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee added, "We applaud the efforts of the hundreds of public figures who have invested their time and talent to provide critical aid to help refugees and raise awareness about their plight. When too many politicians are trading in fear it is heartening to see people of renown and credibility standing up for hope." "We're all together now!" said artist and peace activist Yoko Ono in reflection of the superstar talent that has joined forces around one powerful statement: "We Are Not Afraid" to stand against the countless acts of violence, hate, discrimination and abuse witnessed globally." American rock and country singer-songwriter Steve Earle offered, "We are a nation of immigrants, MOST of whom were refugees from one human tragedy or another. The very idea of closing our hearts and our borders out of fear of newcomers is the death of the American Dream itself." Refugees in some of the world's wealthiest nations face some of the poorest and most dire conditions as they seek asylum. It is with urgency that the "We Are Not Afraid" campaign affirms the need to help unite all global citizens as one to provide aid and respite. Participating artists acknowledge and herald the critical need to address and support those who most need their voice. For more information on "We Are Not Afraid" visit: wearenotafraid.net Facebook: We Are Not Afraid Campaign
Video: here
Enlists 200+ Rock Stars and Cultural Icons to Stand Against Violence and Hate and to Raise Funds toSupport Global Refugee Organizations
A Positive Statement in a Negative World, says Director and Rock Photographer Bob Gruen


(New York, NY) - Keith Richards, Robert Plant, Bruce Springsteen, Robert De Niro, Sting, Ringo Starr, Patti Smith and Yoko Ono have come together with 200 other rock legends and cultural heroes to declare We Are Not Afraid , in a new video targeted to raise funds for victims of religious and political violence around the world. Creator/organizer Steve Weitzman says We Are Not Afraid gives a voice to those whose voices often go unheard. Originally created as a 4-minute video, so many notables signed on that it needed to be lengthened. Enter legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen who expanded it into an 8-minute video. "It's a positive statement in a negative world," says Gruen who served as director. "I hope it becomes something that inspires people around the world to do their own versions. You shouldn't go through life being afraid." Weitzman says, "my long-time friend Bob Gruen -- who was a very early supporter of this project and brought it to Yoko Ono's attention, resulting in her becoming the campaign's very first participant -- immediately offered to put together the long form We Are Not Afraid video when told of our plan. And for that we are deeply grateful." Set to a catchy tune, "We Are Not Afraid" penned by Nigerian singer-songwriter Majek Fashek, the music video shows all the stars holding signs bearing the slogan We Are Not Afraid. It is available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon and other major outlets with all proceeds being donated to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Human Rights Watch (HRW). The campaign has enlisted a group of participants that reads like a Who's Who including Dr. Jane Goodall, Iggy Pop, Peter Gabriel, Jackson Browne, Chuck D, Galactica, Joe Walsh, Bonnie Raitt, Darlene Love, Debbie Harry, Dion, Elvis Costello, Grandmaster Flash, Jeff Tweedy, Shep Gordon and Susan Sarandon. The original 4-minute video directed by Kevin Godley had to be expanded to accommodate the flood of rock stars that wanted to take part in the campaign.All are lending their voices in advocacy for the "We Are Not Afraid" campaign in response to the global refugee crisis and victims of religious and political violence. "We're alarmed by the hateful and dangerous rhetoric coming from politicians across Europe and the United States," said Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch. "We must not allow the rising threat of racism and hate to violate our most basic principles of humanity. We're moved and grateful that so many artists are speaking out and standing with us for human rights." David Millband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee added, "We applaud the efforts of the hundreds of public figures who have invested their time and talent to provide critical aid to help refugees and raise awareness about their plight. When too many politicians are trading in fear it is heartening to see people of renown and credibility standing up for hope." "We're all together now!" said artist and peace activist Yoko Ono in reflection of the superstar talent that has joined forces around one powerful statement: "We Are Not Afraid" to stand against the countless acts of violence, hate, discrimination and abuse witnessed globally." American rock and country singer-songwriter Steve Earle offered, "We are a nation of immigrants, MOST of whom were refugees from one human tragedy or another. The very idea of closing our hearts and our borders out of fear of newcomers is the death of the American Dream itself." Refugees in some of the world's wealthiest nations face some of the poorest and most dire conditions as they seek asylum. It is with urgency that the "We Are Not Afraid" campaign affirms the need to help unite all global citizens as one to provide aid and respite. Participating artists acknowledge and herald the critical need to address and support those who most need their voice. For more information on "We Are Not Afraid" visit: wearenotafraid.net Facebook: We Are Not Afraid Campaign
Video: here
Published on December 20, 2016 10:04
Tristen releases charity holiday song; announces tour with Vanessa Carlton
TRISTEN RELEASES A HOLIDAY SONG
"IN WINTER BLUES"
TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE
ANNOUNCES 2017 TOUR WITH VANESSA CARLTON
“Nashville’s best-kept secret” (The Boston Globe) singer-songwriter and poet Tristen, releases a stunningly somber and beautifully orchestrated original holiday song, "In Winter Blues," to raise money for the International Rescue Committee, an organization founded by Albert Einstein and currently helping vulnerable families caught in the world’s worst humanitarian crises to survive and rebuild their lives.
A farewell to an old love, "In Winter Blues" portrays the devastating loneliness of being single during the holidays, where the songwriter “cried behind the evergreen” and boasts that “real friends make a toast to remind me they never liked you anyway." In addition to its lush arrangement and pristine vocals, the song features Nashville pedal steel legend Jim Hoke (NRBQ, Dolly Parton, Billy Joel) and local folk darling, Erin Rae McKaskle on backing vocals.
Tristen gained notice as an artist with “pop hooks and pure inspiration” (NPR) through her 2011 folk-oriented recordCharlatans at the Garden Gate and was later recast as “a synth-pop siren” (SPIN) by her 2013 record CAVES. Outlets including Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, and KCRW have all recognized Tristen’s skill as a songwriter and performer. Tristen spent 2015 as a backing singer and keyboard player in Jenny Lewis’s band and released her first book of poetry, Saturnine, earlier this fall which features a foreword by rock and roll poet Ezra Furman.
Public link to download and donation here:
https://tristen.bandcamp.com
***
Tristen will be joining Vanessa Carlton on her 2017 US & Canada tour dates listed below.
22-Feb - Indianapolis, IN - Schrott Center for the Performing Arts
23-Feb - Ann Arbor, MI - The Ark
24-Feb - Chicago, IL - City Winery
25-Feb - Evanston, IL - SPACE
26-Feb - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theatre
28-Feb - Columbus, OH - Rumba Cafe
2-Mar - Stratford, ON - Masonic Hall
3-Mar - Toronto, ON - The Great Hall
4-Mar - Montreal, QC - Theatre Fairmount
6-Mar - Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair
7-Mar - Northampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall
9-Mar - Bay Shore, NY - YMCA Boulton Ctr. For The Perf. Arts
10-Mar - New York, NY - City Winery
11-Mar - Philadelphia, PA - World Cafe Live
12-Mar - Richmond, VA - Tin Pan
16-Mar - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere
17-Mar - Raleigh, NC - Lincoln Theatre
18-Mar - Atlanta, GA - City Winery
19-Mar - Nashville, TN - 3rd & Lindsley
21-Mar - Birmingham, AL - WorkPlay
23-Mar - San Antonio, TX - Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
24-Mar - Dallas, TX - Granada Theater
25-Mar - Austin, TX - The Parish Room
"IN WINTER BLUES"
TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE
ANNOUNCES 2017 TOUR WITH VANESSA CARLTON

A farewell to an old love, "In Winter Blues" portrays the devastating loneliness of being single during the holidays, where the songwriter “cried behind the evergreen” and boasts that “real friends make a toast to remind me they never liked you anyway." In addition to its lush arrangement and pristine vocals, the song features Nashville pedal steel legend Jim Hoke (NRBQ, Dolly Parton, Billy Joel) and local folk darling, Erin Rae McKaskle on backing vocals.
Tristen gained notice as an artist with “pop hooks and pure inspiration” (NPR) through her 2011 folk-oriented recordCharlatans at the Garden Gate and was later recast as “a synth-pop siren” (SPIN) by her 2013 record CAVES. Outlets including Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, and KCRW have all recognized Tristen’s skill as a songwriter and performer. Tristen spent 2015 as a backing singer and keyboard player in Jenny Lewis’s band and released her first book of poetry, Saturnine, earlier this fall which features a foreword by rock and roll poet Ezra Furman.
Public link to download and donation here:
https://tristen.bandcamp.com
***
Tristen will be joining Vanessa Carlton on her 2017 US & Canada tour dates listed below.
22-Feb - Indianapolis, IN - Schrott Center for the Performing Arts
23-Feb - Ann Arbor, MI - The Ark
24-Feb - Chicago, IL - City Winery
25-Feb - Evanston, IL - SPACE
26-Feb - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theatre
28-Feb - Columbus, OH - Rumba Cafe
2-Mar - Stratford, ON - Masonic Hall
3-Mar - Toronto, ON - The Great Hall
4-Mar - Montreal, QC - Theatre Fairmount
6-Mar - Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair
7-Mar - Northampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall
9-Mar - Bay Shore, NY - YMCA Boulton Ctr. For The Perf. Arts
10-Mar - New York, NY - City Winery
11-Mar - Philadelphia, PA - World Cafe Live
12-Mar - Richmond, VA - Tin Pan
16-Mar - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere
17-Mar - Raleigh, NC - Lincoln Theatre
18-Mar - Atlanta, GA - City Winery
19-Mar - Nashville, TN - 3rd & Lindsley
21-Mar - Birmingham, AL - WorkPlay
23-Mar - San Antonio, TX - Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
24-Mar - Dallas, TX - Granada Theater
25-Mar - Austin, TX - The Parish Room
Published on December 20, 2016 10:01
Rough Trade Publishing declares war on complacency - announces "a song a day keeps the pain away" charity
ROUGH TRADE PUBLISHING DECLARES WAR ON COMPLACENCY
“2017: A SONG A DAY KEEPS THE PAIN AWAY”TO FEATURE PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED SONGS FOR FIRST 90 DAYS OF THE NEW YEAR
ANNOUNCED CONTRIBUTORS INCLUDE:RACHEL GRIMES, JULIANA HATFIELD,DELICATE STEVE, KEVIN DEVINE, HIGH HIGHS, LUSHLIFE and more
ALL INCOME TO BE DONATED TO SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER
VIDEO AVAILABLE NOW
BANDCAMP SUBSCRIPTIONS BEGIN AT $20.17

(New York, NY) Rough Trade Publishing (RTP) will mark the arrival of 2017 by declaring war on complacency with “2017: A Song A Day Keeps The Pain Away” that will feature a previously unreleased song from one of RTP’s extraordinary roster of artists released daily for the first 90 days of the new year via Bandcamp. Subscriptions begin at $20.17, with all proceeds donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center.
A remarkable line-up of Rough Trade Publishing artists have already pledged contributions to “2017: A Song A Day Keeps The Pain Away,” among them such luminaries as Rachel Grimes, Juliana Hatfield, Delicate Steve, High Highs Lushlife, with more to be announced in the coming days and weeks. Daily updates will be posted via RTP's twitter account and Bandcamp.
“This is a call to arms,” says Lyle Hysen, President of Rough Trade Publishing. “These songs will be our daily ration to help preserve us for the upcoming winter of our discontent. At this point in the game, we need as many shots fired across the bow as possible. These 90 songs are just a start. We all need to be volunteering, making donations and using our time as wisely as possible. It'll take more than sad FB posts to combat the 2016 election results."
Rough Trade Publishing in its current incarnation was initially operated as House of Hassle Publishing (HoH), a privately owned New York LLC formed in 2007 by co-founder Lyle Hysen of Bank Robber Music, an industry leader in independent TV/film music licensing. Hysen was joined in the innovative venture by Big Hassle Media co-founder/President Ken Weinstein (known industry-wide for his work with Robert Plant, Jack White, and the Superfly family of festivals, including Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival and Outside Lands), and entertainment attorney Gandhar Savur, co-founder of New York City/Nashville-based boutique business, entertainment and intellectual property law firm Savur Threadgold LLP. March 2016 saw House of Hassle’s acquisition of UK publishing company Rough Trade Publishing (RTP). Rough Trade Publishing is positioned within the Bank Robber Industries family of companies, with operations run out of Bank Robber Industries’ New York, Nashville, Los Angles, and London offices.
For more information, please see roughtradepublishing.com#SADRTP
“2017: A SONG A DAY KEEPS THE PAIN AWAY”TO FEATURE PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED SONGS FOR FIRST 90 DAYS OF THE NEW YEAR
ANNOUNCED CONTRIBUTORS INCLUDE:RACHEL GRIMES, JULIANA HATFIELD,DELICATE STEVE, KEVIN DEVINE, HIGH HIGHS, LUSHLIFE and more
ALL INCOME TO BE DONATED TO SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER
VIDEO AVAILABLE NOW
BANDCAMP SUBSCRIPTIONS BEGIN AT $20.17

(New York, NY) Rough Trade Publishing (RTP) will mark the arrival of 2017 by declaring war on complacency with “2017: A Song A Day Keeps The Pain Away” that will feature a previously unreleased song from one of RTP’s extraordinary roster of artists released daily for the first 90 days of the new year via Bandcamp. Subscriptions begin at $20.17, with all proceeds donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center.
A remarkable line-up of Rough Trade Publishing artists have already pledged contributions to “2017: A Song A Day Keeps The Pain Away,” among them such luminaries as Rachel Grimes, Juliana Hatfield, Delicate Steve, High Highs Lushlife, with more to be announced in the coming days and weeks. Daily updates will be posted via RTP's twitter account and Bandcamp.
“This is a call to arms,” says Lyle Hysen, President of Rough Trade Publishing. “These songs will be our daily ration to help preserve us for the upcoming winter of our discontent. At this point in the game, we need as many shots fired across the bow as possible. These 90 songs are just a start. We all need to be volunteering, making donations and using our time as wisely as possible. It'll take more than sad FB posts to combat the 2016 election results."
Rough Trade Publishing in its current incarnation was initially operated as House of Hassle Publishing (HoH), a privately owned New York LLC formed in 2007 by co-founder Lyle Hysen of Bank Robber Music, an industry leader in independent TV/film music licensing. Hysen was joined in the innovative venture by Big Hassle Media co-founder/President Ken Weinstein (known industry-wide for his work with Robert Plant, Jack White, and the Superfly family of festivals, including Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival and Outside Lands), and entertainment attorney Gandhar Savur, co-founder of New York City/Nashville-based boutique business, entertainment and intellectual property law firm Savur Threadgold LLP. March 2016 saw House of Hassle’s acquisition of UK publishing company Rough Trade Publishing (RTP). Rough Trade Publishing is positioned within the Bank Robber Industries family of companies, with operations run out of Bank Robber Industries’ New York, Nashville, Los Angles, and London offices.
For more information, please see roughtradepublishing.com#SADRTP
Published on December 20, 2016 09:59
IMMERSION Analogue Creatures Living On An Island

IMMERSION Analogue Creatures Living On An Island OUT 25 NOV 2016 - PRE ORDER NOW
STREAM FIREFLYS ON THE QUIETUS 1. Always The Sea
2. Nanocluster
3. Fireflys
4. Shapeshifters
5. Living On An Island
6. Mechanical Creatures
7. Spinner
8. Organic Cities
9. Slow Light
Immersion’s new album of seductive instrumentals takes in a wide range of moods and energies. Their music is a kind of Electro-Kosmishe - the sound of the 21st century, which nonetheless draws inspiration from German pioneers such as Cluster and Popol Vuh. And, like those groups, Immersion can create a world which is simultaneously devotional and sensual.
Combining the considerable talents of Malka Spigel of Minimal Compact and Colin Newman of Wire, Immersion is a true collaboration, with no delineation between who plays or does what. “We don’t have fixed roles in Immersion,” says Spigel. Newman concurs: “You can’t really tell who plays what.” Between 1994 and 1999, Immersion released three critically acclaimed albums of expansive instrumental electronica – music which encompassed the meditative and the hallucinatory. They also garnered remixes by some of the biggest names in electronic music. And then? Then, they faded from view…
Cut to a mere 17 years later, and a new Immersion album glides into earshot. Their sound is unmistakable. And yet, clearly, the duo have evolved. Immersion has returned a different beast. The pulsing and sliding analogue synths are still present and correct. Indeed, the stately and plaintive Mechanical Creatures, with its constantly evolving web of analogue synth throbs, could easily find a home on Fripp and Eno’s classic Evening Star album. But there are also several sonic advancements from Immersion’s previous recordings.
The most noticeable differences are the introduction of guitars into the mix and an increased sense of urgency to their compositions. This means Analogue Creatures Living On An Island cannot be classified as ambient music. Although it does have its contemplative moments - such as the gently unfolding Slow Light - the majority of the album is powered by a strong sense of motion. Nanocluster is a tense and insistent composition. Coming over like the score to some futuristic spy film, it demonstrates Immersion’s skill at creating miniature sound worlds alive with detail. Meanwhile, the urgent forward propulsion of Organic Cities weaves in shades of prime era Tangerine Dream - and may well be the album’s highlight. The fact the album has been largely constructed using analogue instrumentation rather than digital, definitely gives it a warmth and depth which sets it apart.
During Immersion’s 17 years hiatus, Spigel and Newman have been far from idle. Spigel released acclaimed solo albums, exhibited her distinctive photography, and performed sold-out shows with a reformed Minimal Compact. Newman helmed the revitalised Wire through a series of stunning gigs and poll-topping albums. Besides which, the pair collaborated with Max Franken and Robin Rimbaud (aka Scanner) as Githead, purveyors of skewed art-pop. And yet, despite all these outlets for their creativity, they decided the time was right to reactivate Immersion. “It felt like the right moment for us to do something with synths again,” says Newman. “We had the urge to create instrumental, free-flowing music, which didn’t depend on any kind of verse/chorus/middle eight format. Music that could also be propulsive with out resorting to any kind of obvious drumming.”And it’s true the album exhibits a very organic flow. Another contributory factor could well be the duo’s relocation from London to Brighton. “We live ten minutes away from the sea,” says Spigel. “We walk by it almost every day. It’s different every time we see it, even every hour. We’ve definitely been inspired by the light and the sound.” This influence is perhaps heard most strongly on Spinner, the sonic equivalent of a bright spray of light radiating across a seascape.
Analogue Creatures Living On An Island is the point where Immersion emerge from being one of the UK electronica scene’s best kept secrets, and gain the recognition they so richly deserve.
VINYLFor those who prefer vinyl, the album is available spread across two 10” singles: Analogue Creatures and Living On An Island.
The tracklisting is the same – only the running order differs. Analogue Creatures is Out Now. Living On an Island is released on 25 November.

2. Shapeshifters
3. Organic Cities
4. Mechanical Creatures
5. Slow Light

2. Nanocluster
3. Spinner
4. Living On An Island
GIGSImmersion only rarely plays live – just two appearances up to the beginning of 2016 – but occasional live shows are now taking place. The most recent, our third in 2016, was at the Pop-Kultur Festival in Berlin in early September, as a collaboration with Ronald Lippok. You can read a review of it on the Quietus. The next will be at The Verdict, in Brighton, on 1 October as part of the Coloured Memories event. This is followed by a show on 19 November at the Ozen Bar, Tel Aviv, and will include a collaboration with Ulrich Schnauss.
Published on December 20, 2016 09:10
December 19, 2016
New video for Imelda May's "Call Me" premieres at W Magazine; T Bone Burnett-produced record out next year
IMELDA MAY’S “CALL ME” VIDEO
PREMIERES AT W MAGAZINE FIRST NEW MUSIC IN ANTICIPATION OF FORTHCOMING
FULL LENGTH RECORD [image error] [image error]
Artwork photo credit (left): Max Dodson; Artist photo credit (right): Roger Deckker “Ms. May has a rich, tangy voice and sultry presence”—The New York Times “[May] performs with undeniable flair.”—Associated Press W Magazine is premiering the video for “Call Me,” the first new music from critically acclaimed Irish singerImelda May in nearly three years, while hailing the song as a “sweet, spare lament.” Watch/share the video HERE. The track is the first single from May’s forthcoming 2017 release and is available now via Verve Records. Produced by the legendary T Bone Burnett, the track marks a new direction for May who, in the time since her 2014 release Tribal, ended her marriage of eighteen years. “Call Me” is among the most autobiographical songs May has written, with Burnett noting, “I’ve never met anyone quite like Imelda May. She is full of life. When I first happened onto her music, she was a punky Irish Rockabilly singer with a great band. I was intrigued by her deep feeling for and understanding of that American art form, much of which, of course, had originated in Ireland. When I ran across her several years later, she had gone through a change of lives and was writing about it with a wild intensity and singing about it in the most open hearted way. I was inspired by her honesty and her generosity, and I continue to be intrigued.” Adds May, “It’s therapy, like keeping a diary that a lot of people read. Some of my favorite songs don’t say much, but they reveal everything.” May’s new musical direction accompanies an overarching stylistic change for the established singer. “I always loved the ’50s rockabilly style but there was a point where I felt I was almost dressing up as Imelda May,” she notes. “It was as if I was getting into character for a gig. And I didn’t want to do that anymore. This is me.” The upcoming album features contributions from guitar hero Jeff Beck and piano maestro Jools Holland, as well as an accomplished group of backing musicians including the core trio of guitarist Marc Ribot (Tom Waits, Elvis Costello), drummer Jay Bellerose (Robert Plant and Alison Krauss) and bassist Zach Dawes (The Last Shadow Puppets, Mini Mansions). Recorded over seven days in Los Angeles, the songs on the upcoming record were written over the course of May’s tumultuous past year. May states that she began writing songs for the album with “no preconceived notions of where it was going to go. My plan was to have no plan because it was freedom. It was liberating.” May’s previous records have seen success both in the U.S. as well as in Europe. Tribal debuted at #1 in Ireland and #3 in the UK. The Guardian gave the album four stars, saying “This album is no time capsule; it’s fresh and embracing…” while The Times praised May’s “raw, impassioned vocals.” Her previous release, 2010’s Mayhem, also received critical acclaim with The Los Angeles Times commenting, “Ireland-born Imelda May’s career is fostered by paying homage to legends like Buddy Holly and Johnny Cash and, more importantly, furthering rockabilly’s cross-pollination into New Orleans jazz, delta blues and amp-splitting punk aggression.” Mayhem went Platinum in Ireland and Gold in the U.K., while May has seen performances on “Later…With Jools Holland,” “Conan,” “and an impressive four performances on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” to name a few.
PREMIERES AT W MAGAZINE FIRST NEW MUSIC IN ANTICIPATION OF FORTHCOMING
FULL LENGTH RECORD [image error] [image error]
Artwork photo credit (left): Max Dodson; Artist photo credit (right): Roger Deckker “Ms. May has a rich, tangy voice and sultry presence”—The New York Times “[May] performs with undeniable flair.”—Associated Press W Magazine is premiering the video for “Call Me,” the first new music from critically acclaimed Irish singerImelda May in nearly three years, while hailing the song as a “sweet, spare lament.” Watch/share the video HERE. The track is the first single from May’s forthcoming 2017 release and is available now via Verve Records. Produced by the legendary T Bone Burnett, the track marks a new direction for May who, in the time since her 2014 release Tribal, ended her marriage of eighteen years. “Call Me” is among the most autobiographical songs May has written, with Burnett noting, “I’ve never met anyone quite like Imelda May. She is full of life. When I first happened onto her music, she was a punky Irish Rockabilly singer with a great band. I was intrigued by her deep feeling for and understanding of that American art form, much of which, of course, had originated in Ireland. When I ran across her several years later, she had gone through a change of lives and was writing about it with a wild intensity and singing about it in the most open hearted way. I was inspired by her honesty and her generosity, and I continue to be intrigued.” Adds May, “It’s therapy, like keeping a diary that a lot of people read. Some of my favorite songs don’t say much, but they reveal everything.” May’s new musical direction accompanies an overarching stylistic change for the established singer. “I always loved the ’50s rockabilly style but there was a point where I felt I was almost dressing up as Imelda May,” she notes. “It was as if I was getting into character for a gig. And I didn’t want to do that anymore. This is me.” The upcoming album features contributions from guitar hero Jeff Beck and piano maestro Jools Holland, as well as an accomplished group of backing musicians including the core trio of guitarist Marc Ribot (Tom Waits, Elvis Costello), drummer Jay Bellerose (Robert Plant and Alison Krauss) and bassist Zach Dawes (The Last Shadow Puppets, Mini Mansions). Recorded over seven days in Los Angeles, the songs on the upcoming record were written over the course of May’s tumultuous past year. May states that she began writing songs for the album with “no preconceived notions of where it was going to go. My plan was to have no plan because it was freedom. It was liberating.” May’s previous records have seen success both in the U.S. as well as in Europe. Tribal debuted at #1 in Ireland and #3 in the UK. The Guardian gave the album four stars, saying “This album is no time capsule; it’s fresh and embracing…” while The Times praised May’s “raw, impassioned vocals.” Her previous release, 2010’s Mayhem, also received critical acclaim with The Los Angeles Times commenting, “Ireland-born Imelda May’s career is fostered by paying homage to legends like Buddy Holly and Johnny Cash and, more importantly, furthering rockabilly’s cross-pollination into New Orleans jazz, delta blues and amp-splitting punk aggression.” Mayhem went Platinum in Ireland and Gold in the U.K., while May has seen performances on “Later…With Jools Holland,” “Conan,” “and an impressive four performances on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” to name a few.
Published on December 19, 2016 15:33
Jesca Hoop: 2017 Tour Dates to support "Memories Are Now" + "Behind The Scenes" short film, BBC6 Session
Jesca Hoop schedules 2017 U.S. and U.K. Tour Dates
New album Memories Are Now available February 10th
Photo credit: Angel CeballosWatch Behind The Scenes short film
YouTube: http://u.subpop.com/2hE0SsA
BBC 6 Radio Session
YouTube: http://u.subpop.com/2hGMj7gJesca Hoop has scheduled 2017 tour dates to follow her forthcoming Sub Pop debut Memories Are Now, available February 10th.
The U.S. shows begin February 26th in Austin, TX and includestops in Philadelphia, Atlanta, DC, Boston, New York City, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The U.K. shows begin March 28th and include stops in London, Leeds, Bristol, Norwich, Manchester, Brighton, and Cambridge. Additional live dates will be announced soon. Please visit www.jescahoop.com/tour for updates.
Feb. 26 - Austin, TX - 3TEN @ Austin City Limits Live
Feb. 28 - Atlanta, GA - Terminal West
Mar. 02 - Vienna, VA - Jammin’ Java
Mar. 05 - Philadelphia, PA - Boot & Saddle
Mar. 06 - Allston, MA - Brighton Music Hall
Mar. 08 - New York, NY - Mercury Lounge
Mar. 14 - Minneapolis, MN - Cedar Cultural Center
Mar. 17 - Seattle, WA - Fremont Abbey Arts Center
Mar. 18 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater
Mar. 20 - San Francisco, CA - Great American Music Hall
Mar. 21 - Los Angeles, CA - The Roxy
Mar. 28 - Leeds, UK - Brudenell Social Club
Mar. 29 - London, UK - The Lexington
Mar. 30 - Bristol, UK - Exchange
Apr. 02 - Norwich, UK - Epic Studios
Apr. 03 - Cambridge, UK - Portland Arms
Apr. 04 - Brighton, UK - Patterns
Apr. 06 - Manchester, UK - Gorilla
Memories Are Now is an album of stunning original songs, raw yet brimming with energy, forged from rich life experience and emotional depth. Beautifully delivered by an artist that has steadfastly honed her unique craft of musical storytelling.For an in-depth insight into the recording of the Memories Are Now, please view this short film [YouTube]. The release of Memories Are Now comes on the heels of Love Letter for Fire, Jesca’sacclaimed duets album with Iron & Wine’s Sam Beam. Memories Are Now was recorded at NRG Studios, produced by Blake Mills (Alabama Shakes), engineered by Eric Caudieux, mixed by Greg Koller and mastered by Ian Sefchick at Capitol Mastering. Jesca recently recorded an intimate performance on Marc Riley’s BBC 6 radio show, which features select tracks off her new album [watch here].
Memories Are Now will be released on CD / LP / DL and is available for pre-order now [link]. LP pre-orders through megamart.subpop.com will receive the limited Loser Edition on gold colored vinyl (while supplies last).
#jescahoop
#memoriesarenow
#thelostsky
#blakemills#subpop
New album Memories Are Now available February 10th

YouTube: http://u.subpop.com/2hE0SsA
BBC 6 Radio Session
YouTube: http://u.subpop.com/2hGMj7gJesca Hoop has scheduled 2017 tour dates to follow her forthcoming Sub Pop debut Memories Are Now, available February 10th.
The U.S. shows begin February 26th in Austin, TX and includestops in Philadelphia, Atlanta, DC, Boston, New York City, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The U.K. shows begin March 28th and include stops in London, Leeds, Bristol, Norwich, Manchester, Brighton, and Cambridge. Additional live dates will be announced soon. Please visit www.jescahoop.com/tour for updates.
Feb. 26 - Austin, TX - 3TEN @ Austin City Limits Live
Feb. 28 - Atlanta, GA - Terminal West
Mar. 02 - Vienna, VA - Jammin’ Java
Mar. 05 - Philadelphia, PA - Boot & Saddle
Mar. 06 - Allston, MA - Brighton Music Hall
Mar. 08 - New York, NY - Mercury Lounge
Mar. 14 - Minneapolis, MN - Cedar Cultural Center
Mar. 17 - Seattle, WA - Fremont Abbey Arts Center
Mar. 18 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater
Mar. 20 - San Francisco, CA - Great American Music Hall
Mar. 21 - Los Angeles, CA - The Roxy
Mar. 28 - Leeds, UK - Brudenell Social Club
Mar. 29 - London, UK - The Lexington
Mar. 30 - Bristol, UK - Exchange
Apr. 02 - Norwich, UK - Epic Studios
Apr. 03 - Cambridge, UK - Portland Arms
Apr. 04 - Brighton, UK - Patterns
Apr. 06 - Manchester, UK - Gorilla
Memories Are Now is an album of stunning original songs, raw yet brimming with energy, forged from rich life experience and emotional depth. Beautifully delivered by an artist that has steadfastly honed her unique craft of musical storytelling.For an in-depth insight into the recording of the Memories Are Now, please view this short film [YouTube]. The release of Memories Are Now comes on the heels of Love Letter for Fire, Jesca’sacclaimed duets album with Iron & Wine’s Sam Beam. Memories Are Now was recorded at NRG Studios, produced by Blake Mills (Alabama Shakes), engineered by Eric Caudieux, mixed by Greg Koller and mastered by Ian Sefchick at Capitol Mastering. Jesca recently recorded an intimate performance on Marc Riley’s BBC 6 radio show, which features select tracks off her new album [watch here].
Memories Are Now will be released on CD / LP / DL and is available for pre-order now [link]. LP pre-orders through megamart.subpop.com will receive the limited Loser Edition on gold colored vinyl (while supplies last).

#jescahoop
#memoriesarenow
#thelostsky
#blakemills#subpop
Published on December 19, 2016 10:33
Immersion Share "Fireflys" video with Clash Magazine; New Album Analogue Creatures Living On An Island Out
Immersion Share "Fireflys" video with Clash Magazine
New Album Analogue Creatures Living On An Island Out Now via swim~
"Analogue Creatures Living On An Island is a collection of seductive instrumentals that's as sensual as it is hypnotic." - Drowned In Sound "The album is composed of largely electronic instrumental compositions that ebb and flow like the tide, and indeed the album was made during the pair's first year of living beside the sea, in Brighton." - The Quietus "Analogue Creatures Living On An Island is a truly beautiful collection of atmospheric drone-work." - MXDWNWatch: "Fireflys" official video at Clash Online or YouTube
Stream: Analouge Creatures Living On An Island at Drowned In Sound
With their recent LP Analogue Creatures Living On An Island out now, instrumental ambient drone duo Immersion, made up of Wire's Colin Newman and Minimal Compact's Malka Spigel are sharing a new video for their recent single 'Fireflys'. Watch the video here.
Directed by Brighton based animator Richard Jackson, the “Fireflys” video compliments Immersion's sparkling synth sounds perfectly. Immersion’s Colin Newman says, "We first met Richard at the monthly Beep event in Brighton where he was VJ’ing.” He adds, “We felt his animation style would be well suited to Immersion’s music and asked him if he would be interested to make a video for us. As it happened he really liked our music too, describing the track as ‘Really uplifting and meditative.’ We think the resulting collaboration is fantastic and exceed all our expectations!”Malka & Colin alongside writer Graham Duff will also be curating a series of nights under the name of “Nanocluster”. The launch on January 28th at The Hope & Ruin, in conjunction with Triptych, will see Immersion play, alongside electronic acts Merlin Tonto & Eva Bowen. More info here can be found here Analogue Creatures Living On An Island is the band's first LP in over 17 years. Between 1994 and 1998, the pair released three critically acclaimed albums of expansive electronica and their forthcoming LP adds a fourth to that collection. In the time between the last album and now, Immersion have kept themselves busy with numerous other projects, both collaboratively (Githead) and separately. The duo also relocated from London to Brighton and this move can be heard in the organic flow of the pair’s new and ever-developing songs.
Analogue Creatures Living On An Island cannot be simply categorized as ambient music, but rather, with it’s dazzling synths and magnetic electronics, the compositions can become tense and insistent, almost like a futuristic spy film, demonstrating Immersion’s skill at creating miniature worlds of sound alive with detail.
For those who prefer vinyl, the album is available spread across two 10” singles Analogue Creatures andLiving On An Island respectively.
New Album Analogue Creatures Living On An Island Out Now via swim~

With their recent LP Analogue Creatures Living On An Island out now, instrumental ambient drone duo Immersion, made up of Wire's Colin Newman and Minimal Compact's Malka Spigel are sharing a new video for their recent single 'Fireflys'. Watch the video here.
Directed by Brighton based animator Richard Jackson, the “Fireflys” video compliments Immersion's sparkling synth sounds perfectly. Immersion’s Colin Newman says, "We first met Richard at the monthly Beep event in Brighton where he was VJ’ing.” He adds, “We felt his animation style would be well suited to Immersion’s music and asked him if he would be interested to make a video for us. As it happened he really liked our music too, describing the track as ‘Really uplifting and meditative.’ We think the resulting collaboration is fantastic and exceed all our expectations!”Malka & Colin alongside writer Graham Duff will also be curating a series of nights under the name of “Nanocluster”. The launch on January 28th at The Hope & Ruin, in conjunction with Triptych, will see Immersion play, alongside electronic acts Merlin Tonto & Eva Bowen. More info here can be found here Analogue Creatures Living On An Island is the band's first LP in over 17 years. Between 1994 and 1998, the pair released three critically acclaimed albums of expansive electronica and their forthcoming LP adds a fourth to that collection. In the time between the last album and now, Immersion have kept themselves busy with numerous other projects, both collaboratively (Githead) and separately. The duo also relocated from London to Brighton and this move can be heard in the organic flow of the pair’s new and ever-developing songs.
Analogue Creatures Living On An Island cannot be simply categorized as ambient music, but rather, with it’s dazzling synths and magnetic electronics, the compositions can become tense and insistent, almost like a futuristic spy film, demonstrating Immersion’s skill at creating miniature worlds of sound alive with detail.
For those who prefer vinyl, the album is available spread across two 10” singles Analogue Creatures andLiving On An Island respectively.
Published on December 19, 2016 10:26
Julie Byrne shares "Follow My Voice," new album 'Not Even Happiness' out 1/27
JULIE BYRNE SHARES "FOLLOW MY VOICE"
NEW ALBUM, NOT EVEN HAPPINESS, OUT 1/27
VIA BA DA BING & BASIN ROCK RECORDS
Photo Credit: Jonathan Bouknight
LISTEN TO "FOLLOW MY VOICE"
Nomadic singer-songwriter Julie Byrne, has shared "Follow My Voice," the opening track from her upcoming album, Not Even Happiness. Stereogum , who interviewed Byrne today and premiered the track, are saying "Byrne is one of the finest contemporary examples of an artist who can do so much for the soul by lending you some of hers."
A more confident beast than her debut, Not Even Happiness adds atmospheric instrumentation and electronic flourishes to Byrne's unusual guitar tunings and fingerpicked melodies, moving the songs from the front-porch into subtle anthemia. Not Even Happiness is available for pre-order now and due out January 27th via Ba Da Bing Records in North America and Basin Rock in Europe.
Julie Byrne has also announced a record release show on 1/27 at Rough Trade NYC. Details below.
LISTEN TO PREVIOUS SINGLE "NATURAL BLUE"
TOUR DATES:1/27 - Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade NYC *
* Record Release Show
PRAISE FOR JULIE BYRNE:"With grace and acuity, Byrne shows how the most commonplace aspects of life can turn supernatural if you tilt your eye a way, how the simplest things-melodies, open space, the sky-are often the strongest." - Pitchfork
"With her softly echoing guitar and slight strings, Byrne channels some ancient wavelength, then suddenly sticks a pin in the universal." -NPR
"So perfect it's hard to believe it's real... Songs that feel complete, fully formed, as if they came to us via nature." -USA Today
"Layers of acoustic guitar and self-harmonies hitting like the water and the sky meeting, violins threading between them like ships against the horizon." - Consequence of Sound
NEW ALBUM, NOT EVEN HAPPINESS, OUT 1/27
VIA BA DA BING & BASIN ROCK RECORDS

LISTEN TO "FOLLOW MY VOICE"
Nomadic singer-songwriter Julie Byrne, has shared "Follow My Voice," the opening track from her upcoming album, Not Even Happiness. Stereogum , who interviewed Byrne today and premiered the track, are saying "Byrne is one of the finest contemporary examples of an artist who can do so much for the soul by lending you some of hers."
A more confident beast than her debut, Not Even Happiness adds atmospheric instrumentation and electronic flourishes to Byrne's unusual guitar tunings and fingerpicked melodies, moving the songs from the front-porch into subtle anthemia. Not Even Happiness is available for pre-order now and due out January 27th via Ba Da Bing Records in North America and Basin Rock in Europe.
Julie Byrne has also announced a record release show on 1/27 at Rough Trade NYC. Details below.
LISTEN TO PREVIOUS SINGLE "NATURAL BLUE"
TOUR DATES:1/27 - Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade NYC *
* Record Release Show
PRAISE FOR JULIE BYRNE:"With grace and acuity, Byrne shows how the most commonplace aspects of life can turn supernatural if you tilt your eye a way, how the simplest things-melodies, open space, the sky-are often the strongest." - Pitchfork
"With her softly echoing guitar and slight strings, Byrne channels some ancient wavelength, then suddenly sticks a pin in the universal." -NPR
"So perfect it's hard to believe it's real... Songs that feel complete, fully formed, as if they came to us via nature." -USA Today
"Layers of acoustic guitar and self-harmonies hitting like the water and the sky meeting, violins threading between them like ships against the horizon." - Consequence of Sound
Published on December 19, 2016 10:24
Judy Collins - Love Letter To Sondheim
Judy Collins "Love Letter To Sondheim"coming to DVD and home video platforms February 24th
Collins takes the audience through Sondheim's remarkable treasure-trove of music
A Love Letter to Stephen Sondheim
was filmed in May 2016 at The Boettcher Concert Hall in Denver, CO. Judy Collinstakes the audience through Sondheim's remarkable treasure-trove of music, interweaving stories of Broadway with her personal anecdotes.
"I have loved the songs and the shows of Stephen Sondheim since recording "Send in the Clowns" in my album Judith in 1974," said Collins "My version of the great Sondheim ballad has garnered a Grammy, the top ten slot in Billboard twice in a decade, and is still played on the radio all over the world. Ever since the success of "Send in the Clowns" I have longed to sing the rest of Sondheim's greatest songs. Now, I have the opportunity do to that. These songs glow with familiarity and inhabit the rooms and vistas of all our lives, scenes and melodies from "Little Night Music," "Sweeney Todd," "Sundays in the Park with George," "Company," "Merrily We Roll Along" and "Into the Woods." I pray to do justice to these great songs, and to their composer, one of our National Treasures, Stephen Sondheim."
All orchestrations are by Jonathan Tunick, who has been orchestrating Stephen Sondheim's musicals for decades. Tunicks's orchestration was used by Collins for "Send in the Clowns, " bring Sondheim his only chart topping song in his esteemed history. Collins is joined on the program by the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Glen Cortese.
The DVD can be ordered at the MVD Shop or on Amazon
Collins takes the audience through Sondheim's remarkable treasure-trove of music


"I have loved the songs and the shows of Stephen Sondheim since recording "Send in the Clowns" in my album Judith in 1974," said Collins "My version of the great Sondheim ballad has garnered a Grammy, the top ten slot in Billboard twice in a decade, and is still played on the radio all over the world. Ever since the success of "Send in the Clowns" I have longed to sing the rest of Sondheim's greatest songs. Now, I have the opportunity do to that. These songs glow with familiarity and inhabit the rooms and vistas of all our lives, scenes and melodies from "Little Night Music," "Sweeney Todd," "Sundays in the Park with George," "Company," "Merrily We Roll Along" and "Into the Woods." I pray to do justice to these great songs, and to their composer, one of our National Treasures, Stephen Sondheim."
All orchestrations are by Jonathan Tunick, who has been orchestrating Stephen Sondheim's musicals for decades. Tunicks's orchestration was used by Collins for "Send in the Clowns, " bring Sondheim his only chart topping song in his esteemed history. Collins is joined on the program by the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Glen Cortese.
The DVD can be ordered at the MVD Shop or on Amazon
Published on December 19, 2016 10:10