Pixies Begin To Release Demos From "Beneath The Eyrie" Digitally

The alternative rock band, Pixies released their first album of new material in over three years, back in September 2019. The name of the album was "Beneath The Eyrie" and was produced by the Grammy-nominated Tom Dalgety (Ghost). The album was a top ten hit in the U.K. and Ireland, and the Pixies promoted the album by kicking off a world tour in Europe, which will continue this February with a 15-date tour of Japan, before heading over to China, New Zealand and Australia.

They also recently released a new three song digital EP titled "Beneath The Eyrie Demos: Pt. 1," which was recorded in December 2018 for their latest studio release. The songs on this EP originally appeared on the vinyl only deluxe edition of the album "Beneath The Eyrie," but are becoming available in pieces on all digital platforms.

We kick things off with a demo version of "The Good Works Of Cyrus," which is a raw, short energetic rocker, while the follow-up track "Please Don't Go" takes its time with it's mid-tempo pace and repetitive chorus. The new EP closes out with the guitar-driven frenzy of "Chapel Hill," which feels like its still in the early stages of a song that may need a few more lyrics. To find out more about the newly released "Beneath The Eyrie Demos: Pt. 1" and for a complete list of tour dates, please visit pixiesmusic.com.

New Music From Punk Bands Chief Tail and Wasted Breath

Arriving just last week is the Reptilian Records debut release from punk noise makers, Chief Tail. Their new self-titled album was produced by the great Steve Albini (Nirvana) and features eight, hard-hitting tracks that come in quick and heavy then just leave, before you even know what happened. They kick off the album with the raw, reckless attack of "Stevie Dix II," followed by the equally aggressive "Migrant Worker." Chief Tail blast through the song "Easy Money" as fast as they can," while "Mighty Shitpipe" is the longest song on the album, clocking in at over four minutes of buzzing guitars and bashing rhythms. They close out their new release with the garage rock romp of "She's Got Legs, She's Got Eggs." To find out more about Chief Tail and their new self-titled album, please visit facebook.com/chieftail. 

Also released earlier this month is the self-titled, Blackhouse Records release from the rising punk band, Wasted Breath. Their new album features ten tracks, kicking off with the swift pace of "You Tell Me" and the more aggressive attack of "Nic Fit." The simple rawness of "Intoxicant" is the perfect setting for this trio's powerful sound, while "Front Line" has them showcasing more of their energetic sound that feels right at home spread across three minutes. The speedy bass line and drumming of "Pontiac" will certainly get your adrenaline pumping on this quick-hitting track, while "All The Way Home" displays more maturity in the band's songwriting. To find out more about Wasted Breath and their new self-titled release, please visit facebook.com/wastedbreathofficial. 

Friederike Krum Takes On Gershwin & 1201_Alarm Says "Hello_World" On Their Debut Album

Classically-trained singer Friederike Krum is preparing to release an album of Gershwin classics on February 7th. The new release titled "Somebody Loves Me" showcases Krum performing these timeless numbers, accompanied by musical director/pianist James Pearson. This new twelve-song album begins with the gentle, heart-warming flow of the title song "Somebody Loves Me," which shines a spotlight on Friederike's voice. She slows down the well-known "Summertime" in order to accentuate the lyrics, while "Do What You Do" has a little more bounce to the way she delivers the words to the song. Her angelic vocals are the perfect fit for the ballads "But Not For Me" and "Someone To Watch Over Me." She closes out her new album with the display of passion of her delivery of "Embraceable You." To find out more about Friederike Krum and her latest release "Somebody Loves Me," please visit friederikekrum.co.uk. 

Arriving February 21st is the anticipated debut release from the U.K. "jazz-tronica" band, 1201_Alarm. The album is titled "Hello_World" and features twelve tracks, beginning with the two-minute instrumental "Prologue," which announces the arrival of this new wave of jazz music. The band begins to rock out a little more on the titled song "Hello_World," as the song's intensity grows with its marching rhythm. The song "Bubbles" has a futuristic, electronic infused sound surrounding the leading jazz horns. 1201_Alarm get funky with the groove of "Surely You're Joking," before going all out EDM with the beats "StuxNet." They finish off their new album with jazz fusion of "Skylife" and the smooth, classic jazz flow of "Cycles," which is also the album's first single. To find out more about 1201_Alarm and their upcoming debut album "Hello_World," please visit 1201-alarm.com. 

Find "Joy" In The Debut From Gentlemen's Academy & Discover How Ugly Runner Become The "Romanticizer"

Members of the bands Cactus and The Lizards have teamed up to create the "soft rock" group, Gentlemen's Academy. They recently released their debut album simply titled "Joy," as you will instantly fall in love with their classic seventies rock vibe. The band features seven world class musicians and vocalists that put some of their best work together on this album.

Their new eleven track release begins with floating melody of "What The Rain's For," as lead vocalist Randy Pratt (Cactus) puts your mind at ease on this easy moving track. The Gentlemen's Academy add a bit more guitar from Mike Marks and Patrick Klein (The Lizards) to give their sound a little more rock appeal. Then they pick the tempo up even more with the energy of "The Keepin' Kind." Next, the song "Paradise" displays the band's wonderful harmonies during the songs addictive, adult pop melody. Their "soft rock" sound shines on the burning, power ballad "When We Were Young," before closing out their new album with the emotional, poetic lyrics of "Crush" and the bluesy, more progressive feel of "Teetering." To find out more about Gentlemen's Academy and their latest release "Joy," please visit facebook.com/Hyperspace-Records.

Now, we pick the energy up with another debut release from the American alt-rock trio, Ugly Runner. Their new six-song EP titled "Romanticizer" brings together the band's early influences of The Stooges and The Pixies, with a dash of their own nostalgic sound. Kicking things off is the punk-like feel of "You Keep Me Up, before settling into the more mainstream, indie-rock flow of "How Lovely You Are." Their sound is pure and raw, with the attitude of what you hear is what you get, no unnecessary overdubs or re-takes, just pure rock energy, as displayed in "She Was Your Girl." Ugly Runner close out their new album with the quietly building, dark ballad "This Time Of Year" and the final punk-like fury of "Too Much TV." To find out more about Ugly Runner and their latest release "Romanticizer," please visit uglyrunnermusic.com.

Omnivore Recordings Plans CD Reissues Of Four Mister Rogers Albums

There has been a recent resurgence with the children's show "Mister Rogers Neighborhood," due to the release of the award-nominated film "A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood." Along with the television show, are also the songs that Mister Rogers (Fred Rogers) created as an extension of the show. A few months ago, Omnivore Recordings released the new compilation "It's Such A Good Feeling, The Best Of Mister Rogers" on CD and vinyl. To accompany this release, Omnivore Recordings also reissued digitally the four themed albums ("Bedtime," "You're Growing," "You Are Special" and "Coming And Going") that Fred Rogers recorded during his lifetime. Now for the first time (since their initial released in the mid-nineties) these four album will be released on a physical format on February 21st through Omnivore Recordings.

Each of the four albums revolves around a common theme, as the immortal voice of Fred Rogers sings these special songs to children and adults alike. Rogers is supported on these albums by his long-time collaborator and pianist Johnny Costa, bassist Carl McViker and percussionist Bobby Rawsthorne. Each of the the albums begin with classic, well-known opening number "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" and closes with the positive message of "It's Such A Good Feeling." You will certainly fall in love with the music of Mister Rogers all over again as each song fills your heart with love and your mind with memories.

The "Bedtime" album finds Fred singing the loving melodies of "Then Your Heart Is Full Of Love" and "Tree, Tree, Tree," while also talking to children comforting them on what might scare them at night. Fred's voice is always calming, as he radiates positive messages with every tale he tells. Not only does he sing these special songs, but also discusses and teaches us what the basic meaning of simple things mean, as many of us may have forgotten the true understanding of peace and individuality. It's something special with Fred's voice that makes you feel as if you are always learning in a loving, caring way. He even brings the "Neighborhood of Make-Believe" to you in the many character voices Fred portrays, like King Friday XIII and Daniel Striped Tiger.

You will come across many other classic songs, which are found on the other releases, like "Some People Are Good," "It's You I Like," "Be Brave, Be Strong" and "Look And Listen." With a combined sixty-songs, spread across these four discs, you will have no shortage of love and caring from Mister Rogers. Each album is like watching "Mister Rogers Neighborhood" with your ears, as these are a true extension of the show. To find out more about these new, upcoming releases from Mister Rogers, please visit omnivorerecordings.com/mister-rogers.

Get The Full Rockabilly Feel Of "Chickaboom!" With New Music From Tami Neilson

Rockabilly/Roots artist Tami Neilson returns this February with a brand new studio album titled "Chickaboom!" Growing up, Tami was inspired by the music of Johnny Cash and Tanya Tucker, and uses that influence on her latest set of tracks that have that nostalgic country swing that perfectly fits her powerful vocals.

Tami kicks off her new ten track release with the bluesy shuffle of "Call Your Mama," before picking the tempo up with the classic country, clap-along rhythm of "Hey Bus Driver!" She adds a little swing into the poetic lyrics of "Queenie, Queenie," while "You Were Mine" allows Tami to draw you in with her amazingly strong, passionate vocals. She finishes her new album with the fun, upbeat, rockabilly delivery of "Tell Me That You Love Me" and the quiet, acoustic lulla-bye of "Sleep."

After a show on January 24th at The Folk Alliance Showcase in New Orleans, Tami will be heading off to Europe in March for a tour in support of her new album. For a complete list of dates and to find out more about Tami Neilson and her new release "Chickaboom!," please visit tamineilson.com. 

The Wood Brothers Invite You To Discover Their "Kingdom" Full Of New Music

Grammy-award nominees The Wood Brothers will be releasing their eighth studio effort "Kingdom In My Mind" on January 24th, through Honey Jar/Thirty Tigers. They are also following the release of their new album with a U.S. tour that runs through until April.

The Wood Brothers kick off their new eleven song release with the jazz-infused Americana groove of "Alabaster" and the more upbeat rhythm of "Little Bit Sweet," which also features some wonderful warming harmonies. The boys seems even more playful with the romantic lyrics and southern twang of "Jitterbug Love." The Wood Brothers also like to rock out, as displayed with the busy guitar work of "Don't Think About My Death," before showcasing their simpler, gentle-side with the acoustic folk strumming "The One I Love." The Americana/folk trio finish off their new album with the raw blues of "A Dream's A Dream" and the slow waltz of "Satisfied."

For a complete list of their upcoming shows and to find out more about The Wood Brothers and their latest release "Kingdom In My Mind," please visit thewoodbros.com. 

Nektar Show Us "The Other Side" Of Their Music With Their New Album

The U.K. progressive rock band, Nektar return with a new studio album titled "The Other Side." It is the band's fourteenth studio album and their first in six years. Some of the songs on this new release are over four decades old, but are appearing on a Nektar studio album for the first time.

The band kick things off with "I'm On Fire," which was originally a poem written by Derek "Mo" Moore to his soon-to-be wife back in 1978. The eight-minute musical piece is the perfect beginning to the album, with it's climbing melody to showcase the latest line-up of the band and how amazing they are together as a group. The song "Skywriter" was released as a single last November and got the excitement of new music building for fans. Nektar stretch out their musical journey with the nearly eighteen-minute rock suite of "Love Is / The Other Side," before the short, synthesizer-melody of "The Light Beyond." Nektar finish up their new album with the emotional ballad "Look Through Me" and the perfect prog-rock closer "Y Can't I Be More Like U" with its mix of time signatures and poetic lyrics.

Nektar are currently on the road in the U.S. with shows scheduled from now until the beginning of March. To find out more about the band and their new album "The Other Side," please visit nektarsmusic.com. 

Michael Doucet And His Band Look To Swing On Their Latest Release "Lacher Prise"

Arriving February 14th, is the new solo album from Grammy-award winner and BeauSoleil leader, Michael Doucet. His new album titled "Lacher Prise" is also the name of his backing band on this release, which features ten country-flavored, rockabilly tracks.

He begins with the swinging, uptempo, sing-along chorus of "Water, Water," followed by the swampy, rockabilly swagger of "Lula Lula Don't You Go To Bingo." He slows down for the dark, marching rhythm of "Walking On A Mardi Gras Day," while "Abandonne" is a graceful ballad that could have been recorded in either the France Riviera or Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Michael Doucet and his band close out "Lacher Prise" with the classic country stomp of "Marie Catin" and the instrumental storied spirit of the "Cajun Gypsy." To find out more about Michael Doucet and his latest release "Lacher Prise," please visit compassrecords.com. 

New Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Releases Arriving From The Amity Affliction, Polaris and The Word Alive

Coming February 21st is the Pure Noise Records debut release from the heavy metal band, The Amity Affliction. Their new album titled "Everyone Loves You Once You Leave Them" is the band's seventh studio album overall and features eleven tracks of addictive, melodic, hardcore metal. The Amity Affliction begin with the grand build-up of "Coffin," before breaking down the walls with the hard-hitting aggressive attack of "All My Friends Are Dead." The band delivery a more melodic metal tone with "Soak Me In Bleach" and "All I Do Is Sink," before reaching the ballad "Aloneliness," which adds another dimension to the band's sound. The Amity Affliction pick the energy up again with the emotion-fueled "Born To Lose," before closing out their new album with the pounding rhythm of "Catatonia." To find out more about The Amity Affliction and their latest release "Everyone Loves You Once You Leave Them," please visit theamityaffliction.net. 

Also arriving February 21st is the new album from the Australian, metalcore band Polaris. Their new album "The Death Of Me" features ten tracks that simply drill their way into your mind. The album kicks off with the aggressive growls of "Pray For Rain," as the band reintroduces you to their hard-hitting sound. They pick the energy up even more with the all-out attack of "Hypermania," before finding a more mainstream metal melody with "Masochist." The heavy pounding rhythm of "Vagabond" and the chugging guitar riffs of "Creatures Of Habit" showcase the power that Polaris deliver with their brand of music, while also supporting a melodic tone their hardcore metal sound. They wrap up their new album with the quick-hitting, punk-like fury of "All Of This Is Fleeting" and the final sonic blast of "The Descent." To find out more about Polaris and their latest release "The Death Of Me," please visit polarisaus.com.au. 

After ten years and five albums, The Word Alive are ready to begin their next decade with a new album titled "Monomania," which will be released on February 21st through Fearless Records. The new twelve song album begins with the energetic, alternative, mainstream sound of the title-song "Monomania." Their music is the perfect soundtrack to this new decade with ready-made hit songs like "No Way Out" and "Greatest Almost." The Word Alive pick up the energy with the more intense, aggressive rock of "Thank You" and "Burning Your World Down." They close out their new album with the more melodic flow of "Comfort & Chaos" and the alt-pop feel of "Death Is Only The End If You Assume The Story," which explodes with passion. To find out more about The Word Alive and their latest release "Monomania," please visit wearethewordalive.com. 

Heavy Metal Cellist Quartet Apocalyptica Return With New Studio Album "Cell-0"

Symphonic metal band, Apocalyptica recently released their ninth studio album titled "Cell-0." It is the band's first full instrumental album in seventeen years and features nine tracks that have the musicians stretching out in order to "challenge themselves." Their new set begins with the album's first single "Ashes Of The Modern World," as the song continues to climb with intensity until the two-minute mark, in which a lone cellist brings a dark, eeriness to the song, before kicking down the doors of heavy metal. 

The progressive metal nature of their sound comes shining through on the nearly ten-minute, adventurous title song "Cell-0," while the song "Rise" carries a more graceful melody. Apocalyptica have the perfect recipe for classical thrash metal with "En Route To Mayhem," while "Catharsis" showcases their gentler, more symphonic approach to music. They wrap up their new album with the seven-minute sonic battle of "Beyond The Stars" that finds the perfect balance of both metal and classical music.

Apocaylptica is currently touring all across Europe, until they hit the U.S. in May for a spring tour. For a complete list of shows and to find out more about their new album "Cell-0," please visit apocalyptica.com. 

Singer/Songwriter Robert Vincent Creates A New Set Of Songs For "This Town"

U.K. artist Robert Vincent is preparing to release his third full-length album "In This Town You're Owned" on February 14th through Thirty Tigers. The album was produced by BRIT Award-winner Ethan Johns (Paul McCartney, Kings Of Leon) and explores the "commonality of the human experience."

He begins with the gentle folk strumming of "This Town," as Robert quickly finds his way to your musical heart with his soulful vocals. He quickens up the pace with the rockabilly swing of "My Neighbours Ghost" and the acoustic rock of "Conundrum," as his words begin to settle in your mind for further thought. He slows down for the nearly eight-minute blues of "Husk Of A Soul," before taking his songwriting talents a step further with the nine-minute acoustic folk tale of "The End Of The War." Robert Vincent closes out his new album with the up-lifting ballad "If You Were You" and the pop addiction of "Cuckoo." To find out more about Robert Vincent and his latest release "In This Town You're Owned," please visit facebook.com/RobertVincentUK. 

New Vinyl Reissues Arriving Soon From Country Greats Roy Clark, Buck Owens & Susan Raye

Arriving January 17th from Craft Recordings are three new vinyl reissues that cover some of the biggest names in classic country music. This new set of releases include Roy Clark's "Greatest Hits," Susan Raye's "Greatest Hits" and "The Very Best Of Buck Owens & Susan Raye." These titles have never been released on vinyl and are sure to fill -up our country heart with these well-known hits.

Beginning with Roy Clark's "Greatest Hits," we get fourteen of his most well-known solo tracks that cover his 40-year career in the music industry. Clark may also be best known as the co-host of the very popular television show "Hee Haw" and a frequent co-host for Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show." This set includes his first top ten hit "Tips Of My Fingers," as well as the sweet ballads "Yesterday When I Was Young" and "Come Live With Me." Roy Clark also knew how to have fun, performing "The Lawrence Welk-Hee Haw Counter-Revolution Polka," as well as showcasing his skill on the guitar with the instrumental version of "Riders In The Sky." Roy Clark also brought a gospel sound to country music with "Heart To Heart," before this compilation closes with the light-hearted "Think Summer."

During the early seventies, famed country singer Buck Owens teamed up with then up-and-coming female country singer Susan Raye for a handful of successful albums. Another new release is this vinyl reissue set features fourteen tracks from their collaborations, beginning with a couple of their biggest hits "We're Gonna Get Together" and "Togetherness." Her beautiful voice is the perfect match to Owens' classic country twang when they come together for "The Great White Horse" and "Your Tender Loving Care." The two hit gold once again with the swinging tempo of "Looking Back To See" and "The Gold Old Days (Are Here Again)."

Susan Raye also had a very successful solo career with twenty Top 40 country hits, as sixteen of them are featured on the new vinyl reissue of her "Greatest Hits" set. It begins with her rendition of Jackie DeShannon's "Put A Little Love In Your Heart, before delivering her crossover pop hit "L.A. International Airport" from 1971. One of her highest country charting singles was the upbeat delivery of "(I've Got A) Happy Heart," as she continues to keep the the mood light with "Love Sure Feels Good In My Heart." Her voice is simply magical on songs like "Stop The World (And Let Me Get Off)" and "When You Sure Can See It From Here." To find out more about these three new reissues of the greatest hits sets from Roy Clark (craftrecordings.com/roy-clark-greatest-hits-lp), Susan Raye (craftrecordings.com/susan-raye-16-greatest-hits-lp) and Buck Owens & Susan Raye (craftrecordings.com/buck-owens-susan-raye), please visit craftrecordings.com.

Omnivore Recordings Readies Bobby Hatfield's "Stay With Me" Album For Valentine's Day

Vocalist Bobby Hatfield (one half of The Rightous Brothers) found huge success in the sixties with the #1 single "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin," and it's successor "Unchained Melody." After leaving The Rightous Brothers in 1971, Hatfield wanted to try his hand at a solo career, releasing only one album ("Messin' In Muscle Shoals").

In 1971, Richard Perry was becoming one of the most successful record producers of the era, working on Barbra Streisand's "Stoney End" album and on Harry Nilsson's "Nilsson Schmilsson." Perry's next task was producing an album for Bobby Hatfield, which was never released except for a couple of singles, which failed to make a dent on the music charts.

Now, after sitting in the vault for almost five decades, comes the arrival of the long lost Bobby Hatfield album, "Stay With Me," which was produced by the great Richard Perry. It features thirteen tracks of mostly complete tracks recorded in the studio with an all-star cast that included Ringo Starr, Klaus Voormann and Al Kooper.

The set includes upbeat, R&B renditions of George Harrison's "What Is Life" and "Sour Milk Sea," along with a great energetic run through Marvin Gaye's "Baby Don't You Do It." You can appreciate Bobby Hatfield's timeless vocals on the ballad "In The Still Of The Night," while also diving into his soulful funk side with "Rock 'n' Roll Woman." This new set also includes the original singles of "Stay With Me" and "Oo Wee Baby, I Love You," as well as alternate takes of these two songs that catch the development of these and other tracks Hatfield recorded during his time in the studio.

This new, previously unreleased album from Bobby Hatfield will be available on February 14th through Omnivore Recordings. For more information on this release, please visit omnivorerecordings.com. 

New Heavy Metal Releases Arriving In February From Runescarred, Terrifiant and Torpedo

Arriving February 21st, is the full-length debut album from the Texas, progressive-metal band Runescarred. The new release titled "The Distant Infinite" looks to build upon the band's 2018 EP "We Are," with ten tracks of powerhouse metal. The acoustic introduction of "Hexit" quickly gets demolished by the band's aggressive metal force. The thunderous attack of "Inviting Rivers" and the classic, thrash metal appeal of "Minor Progressions" showcase the band's multi-dimensional musical talents for delivering a powerful mark on your eardrums. Runescarred give us their most progressive metal piece with the tempo changes of "Twisting Flesh," while "Sorrow Is" is a mystical ballad that is simply stunning. To find out more about Runescarred and their latest release "The Distant Infinite," please visit facebook.com/runescarred.

Also arriving on the 21st is the self-titled debut album from the throwback, Belgian metal band, Terrifiant. Their new eight-song release begins with the guitar-driving, pounding rhythm of the opener "Steel For Life." Then, Terrifiant speeds things up with the quick-pace of "Devil In Transport" and the high-powered screams of "Bed Queen." Their classic thrash metal sound shines bright on hard-hitting "Metal And More," before they finish off their new album with the seven-minute aggressive metal monster "Iron Mountain" and a great, furious cover of Pat Benatar's "Heartbreaker." To find out more about Terrifiant and their new self-titled debut album, please visit facebook.com/terrifiantmetal.

Gates of Hell Records will be reissuing the debut release of German thrash metal band, Torpedo on February 21st also. This six-song collection titled "Mechanic Tyrants" is raw and energetic, as they come right out, blasting through the opening track "Maniac." Their sound is heavily influenced by fellow European metal bands, like Motorhead and Saxon. The original release of this album was written, recorded and produced in the band's basement studio, but has now been remastered, while also keeping that thrash metal edge, as in "Mechanic Tyrants" and "Victim Of Desire." Torpedo finish up the album with the slow-building, six-minute "Idiocracy," which simply explodes with speed and intensity. To find out more about Torpedo and the new reissue of "Mechanic Tyrants," please visit facebook.com/torpedometal.

Glenn Jones Helps You Get "Ready For The Good Times" With His New Solo Album

Well-traveled singer/songwriter Glenn Jones is preparing to release his third studio effort "Ready For The Good Times" on February 1st. Jones sings and plays bass for The Goodloves and the Peter Holsapple Combo, as well as being the full-time musical director of the Carrboro Music Festival, but has found time to record twelve new tracks for his latest release.

The album begins with the beautiful folk-style harmonies of "Ripples In The Pond," before adding a little tempo with some jazzy piano for the fun-loving lyrics of "My Baby Makes Pie." Glenn Jones duets with Rebecca Newton on the beautiful acoustic, country ballads "I Got A Voice" and "Lets Make Some Good Old Days." Glenn invites you into his heart with the emotional past of "A New Great Pyramid," before finishing his new album with the nostalgic, honky-tonk country romp of "No Fool Like An Old Fool" and the southern swagger of title-song "Ready For The Good Times." 

Glenn Jones will be performing at the Songwriters Festival at Santa Rosa Beach, FL between January 17-20, before heading out on the road in February, performing solo, as well as with the The Goodloves and the Peter Holsapple Combo. To find out more about Glenn Jones and his latest release "Ready For The Good Times," please visit glennjonesacoustic.com. 

Vance Gilbert Showcases Why He Is A "Good Good Man" With His Latest Release

Singer/songwriter Vance Gilbert is preparing to release his latest studio effort "Good Good Man" on January 24th. It features a dozen heart-warming tracks, beginning with the wonderful acoustic blues of "Pie & Whiskey," which feels like it belongs next to classic tracks by Jackson Browne and Randy Newman. He slows down for the graceful melody of "Good Good Man," before grabbing on to the shuffle groove of "Trust" and adding some sweet horns to give the song a jazzy vibe.

There may be nothing odder than the lyrics of "Zombie Pattycake," but if you don't have fun singing along, then you need to check your pulse. The country/folk, acoustic gold of "When I Cross Over" has that stripped down, classic, truthful feel that is lost in today's overproduced musical world. Vance Gilbert closes out his new album with the quiet, gentle acoustic blues of "Wildflower" and the poetic story of "The Day Before November." To find out more about Vance Gilbert and his latest release "Good Good Man," please visit vancegilbert.com. 

Dave Soldier Goes Global With "Zajal" & The Bonzo Squad Looks To Jam Into "Tomorrow"

A trip to Spain in 2004, inspired world-renowned jazz composer and instrumentalist Dave Soldier to create an album of music performed in the languages of Hebrew, Arabic, early Spanish (Romance) and Farsi. Soldier's new album titled "Zajal" features eleven tracks that certainly brings a worldly feel to his latest release, as only a master of ancient languages will understand the lyrics of each song. The music is what may have a timeless feel, as the Rumba rhythm of "The Spy" and the waltz of "Without Myself" may get you swinging your hips. Soldier gets one of his original compositions into the mix, as the Latin jazz flair of "The Stars Of Country Music Greet The Spring" feels like the bridge between some of these very early renditions of popular music and today's understanding of worldly music. To find out more about Dave Soldier and his latest release "Zajal," please visit davesoldier.com. 

Chicago jazz quartet, Bonzo Squad recently released their latest album "There's Always Tomorrow," back in December. It features only seven tracks, but packs a punch of infectious grooves and spaced-out, swinging jazz numbers that will instantly turn you into a fan. They begin with the quick, energetic jam of "83," before the funk of "Remedy" is exactly what the doctor ordered to wipe your blues away. I mean how can you not have fun with the dance groove of "Hungry Hungry Hippos," before the Bonzo Squad close out their new album with the lush, atmospheric jam of "iO" and the jazzy, Pink Floydian sounds of "There's Always Tomorrow." To find out more about Bonzo Squad and their latest release "There's Always Tomorrow," please visit bonzosquad.com. 

New Music From Indie-Artists Chicago Farmer and The Forrest McDonald Band

Singer/songwriter Cody "Chicago Farmer" Diekhoff is preparing to release his new studio album "Flyover Country" on February 7th. The new ten song release features The Band Of Heathens as the backing band, as Cody graces us with nine new original tracks and a cover of Hank Williams' "Ramblin' Man." The album begins with the Americana/country stomp rhythm of "Indiana Line," as The Band Of Heathens fill-in the harmonies. Chicago Farmer slows down for the acoustic blues of the title-song "Flyover Country," before picking the energy up with the intense, swinging country vibe of "Mother Nature's Daughter." The wonderful tale of "Collars" carries a nostalgic country/folk vibe, while "All In One Place" is an exciting, uptempo country rock assault. Cody "Chicago Famer" Diekhoff finishes his new album with the quiet, acoustic strumming of Williams' "Ramblin' Man" and the swinging, seven-minute tale of "The Village Revisited." To find out more about Chicago Farmer and his latest release "Flyover Country," please visit chicagofarmer.com. 

Guitarist/Songwriter Forrest McDonald will be releasing his 15th studio album "Blues In A Bucket" also on February 7th, through World Talent Records. On this latest release, McDonald invites vocalist Andrew Black along to help give his songs that southern bluesy edge. The Forrest McDonald Band's new album features eleven original compositions, beginning with the jazzy, New Orleans flair of "Boogie Me Till I Drop," which introduces you to this great pairing. The tempo slows down for the emotional ballad of "Blues In The Basement," before getting the classic blues romp rolling on "Hard To Lose." McDonald and Black deliver the uplifting melody of "Go To The Light," which shines with the addition of the gospel-like chorus. The Forrest McDonald Band finish off their new album with guest vocalist Becky Wright leading the way on the southern blues of "Powerhouse" and the upbeat, party-like anthem of "Let The Love In Your Heart." To find out more about The Forrest McDonald Band and their latest release "Blues In A Bucket," please visit forrestmcdonald.com. 

Two New Tribute Albums From Guitarists Stephane Wrembel and Albare

Award-winning guitarist Stephane Wrembel returns with his fifth volume of "The Django Experiment." The new album of cover songs will be released on January 23rd through his own Water Is Life Records label. The new release is also in celebration of the 110th birthday of the legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt.

The new nine-track release begins with the up-and-down scale work of "Improvisation #1," as Stephane does a masterful job on this opening song. The whole band gets involved in the jazzy flow of Reinhardt's "Nympheas," before going off script for the up-tempo swinging rhythm of Fats Waller's "Honeysuckle." Stephanen Wrembel and his band keep the energy flowing through "Daphne" and the scuttle groove of "Dinah," before tackling the eleven-minute build-up of the Duke Ellington classic "Caravan." Following the release of his new album Stephane Wrembel will head over to France for a couple of live shows before returning to the U.S. for an east coast tour. For a complete list of concerts and to find out more about his new album "The Django Experiment V," please visit stephanewrembel.com. 

Brazilian pianist and composer Antonio Carlos Jobim was such an influence on jazz guitarist/composer Albare that he decided to pay tribute to Jobim with his latest album "Albare Plays Jobim." The new ten-song album was released back in December and finds Albare performing once again with some of his well-known fellow musicians on these timeless Latin jazz numbers. The album kicks off with the swinging rhythm of "One Note Somba," before slowing down for the graceful waltz of "Corcovado" and the beautiful acoustics of "Orfeu Negro." The wonderful orchestral sounds of "Double Rainbow" displays the amazing composing talents of Antonio Carlos Jobim, while "Brazil" showcases the artists' playful rhythms. To find out more about Albare and his latest release "Albare Plays Jobim," please visit albareplaysjobim.com. 

Re-Discover The "Miracle Of Science" As Marshall Crenshaw Prepares Reissue Campaign

One of your New Year's resolutions will be to rediscover the work of singer/songwriter Marshall Crenshaw. Beginning on January 17th, the Shiny-Tone label (via Megaforce) will be re-releasing three of his later day albums, starting with 1996's "Miracle Of Science." This was Crenshaw's seventh studio album and his first on the Razor & Tie label and also the first time he recorded at his home.

The original twelve song release gets three extra bonus tracks on this new reissue, making this the ultimate version of the album (at the moment). Marshall Crenshaw kicks off the album with a quick soundbite, before delivering the upbeat, folk-rock of "What Do You Dream Of." He blazes a trial with some sweet slide-guitar on the country-flavored "Who Stole That Train" and the alt-pop vibe of "Starless Summer Sky." In between, Marshall Crenshaw also showcases his softer side, with the quiet, jazzy acoustics of "A Wonderous Place," before he closes out his album with the experimental, backwards noise of "Rouh Na Selim Neves."

This new release still features the corrected straight-on version of "Seven Miles An Hour," which appeared on the original album, but is added here as a bonus track. The other two bonus tracks consist of cover songs, as Marshall Crenshaw performs a swinging, strumming cover of "What The Hell I Got" (by Canadian artist Michael Pagliaro) and a bluesy-pop rendition of Daniel Wylie's "Misty Dreamer." There is also a new video for the track on YouTube (youtube.com). For more information about the new re-issue of Marshall Crenshaw's "Miracle Of Science," please visit facebook.com/MarshallCrenshawOfficial. 

The Dave Clark Five Are "Glad All Over" Their New "All The Hits" Release

British rock and roll band, The Dave Clark Five (The DC5) may be best known for their #1 single "Glad All Over," which knocked The Beatles' "I Want To Hold Your Hand" from the top spot on the U.K. singles chart. The Dave Clark Five also have had two #1 hit singles in Canada with their songs "Bits And Pieces" and "Over And Over." To celebrate the band's accomplishments, BMG will release The Dave Clark Five "All The Hits" on January 24th. This new 28-track release will be available on CD and on vinyl.

Beginning with their cover of The Contours' "Do You Love Me," the hits just keep on coming with "Glad All Over," "Bits And Pieces" and "Can't You See That She's Mine." All of the songs in this set have been remastered by Dave Clark at the famous Abbey Road Studios for this special release to celebrate the band's formation 60 years ago.

The Dave Clark Five showcase their swagger with the blues stomp of "Don't Let Me Down," along side the raw pounding rock delivery of "Any Way You Want It" (which was covered by Kiss in the late-seventies). The beauty of their harmonies are heard in the ballad "Because" and the fun that they pour into their performances is felt in the rockabilly swing of "Reelin' And Rockin'." All that The Dave Clark Five needed was two minutes to grab our attention, like in "Over And Over" and "Nineteen Days." This fabulous new "greatest hits" set closes with the chant of "Sha-Na-Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," the positivity of "Put A Little Love In Your Heart" and the message of "Universal Love." To find out more about the The Dave Clark Five's new "All The Hits" release, please visit musicglue.com/the-dave-clark-five. 

Sons Of Apollo Prepare To Make This Their Year, Beginning With Their New Album "MMXX"

The progressive, hard rock supergroup Sons Of Apollo show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. They released their debut album ("Psychotic Symphony") in 2017, toured the world in 2018, released a live album and video in 2019 and are returning January 17, 2020 to release their new studio album "MMXX." For those that don't know, the band consists of Dream Theater members Mike Portnoy and Derek Sherinian, joined by Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns N Roses), Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big) and Jeff Scott Soto (Journey). The new album will be released as a limited edition 2 CD set which includes instrumental mixes and a cappella excerpts, along with a 2 LP/CD set.

The new album kicks off with the grand build-up of "Goodbye Divinity," which explodes with an intense drumming backdrop, which allows for the solo battles between keyboard and guitar. Sons Of Apollo deliver an even more intense, high-energy straight-forward rocker with "Asphyxiation," before taking you on the nearly nine-minute epic journey of "King Of Delusion," which certainly showcases the band's more progressive, experimental side. After the high-powered attack of "Fall To Ascend" and "Resurrection Day," Sons Of Apollo stretch out their sound, pushing the boundaries of hard rock with the sixteen-minute closer "New World Today." Shorty after the release of "MMXX," Sons of Apollo will be hitting the road for a short seven-date tour, before heading over to Spain in March. For a complete list of shows and to find out more about their new album "MMXX," please visit sonsofapollo.com. 

Start The New Year Off With New Heavy Metal Releases From Behemoth, Midnight and Izthmi

Polish metal band, Behemoth are starting the new year out on the road with fellow metalheads, Slipknot for a two-month European tour. For this trek, Behemoth have decided to re-release their 2018 album "I Loved You At Your Darkest," as a tour edition with bonus tracks and an accompanying documentary. The new set will be available to purchase on tour, while the bonus tracks from the "Maide Vale" BBC Radio 1 Sessions will be available digitally on January 10th. The four bonus tracks features Behemoth performing live in studio, kicking things off with the intensity of "Wolves ov Siberia," which flows into an explosion of energy in the form of "God = Dog." The second half of the new tracks include the growling vocals and progressive metal appeal of "Ecclesia Diabolica Catholica," along with the build-up of pounding drums and buzzing guitars for "Bartzabel." For a complete list of tour dates and to find out more about Behemoth and their album "I Loved Your At Your Darkest," please visit behemoth.pl.

Arriving at the end of month is the latest release titled "Rebirth By Blasphemy" from the speed metal artist Midnight. Multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Athenar is the driving force behind the music, as he takes his music to the next level with these ten new blistering tracks. He kicks off the new album with the intensity and electrifying guitar work of "Fucking Speed And Darkness," followed by the aggressive attack of the title song "Rebirth By Blasphemy." He turns the energy up another notch with the swift, punk-like fury of "Devil's Excrement," before delivering the tribal rhythms of "Rising Scum." Midnight closes out his new album with the classic sounding hardcore metal appeal of "Raw Attack" and the more mainstream metal sounds of "Drag Me Through Fire." To find out more about Midnight and his latest release "Rebirth By Blasphemy," please visit facebook.com/midnightviolators. 

Arriving on Valentine's Day from Within The Mind Records, is the debut release from the Seattle metal band Izthmi. Their new album titled "The Arrows Of Our Ways" features eight tracks, beginning with the sonic clash of "Chasm," which leads to the nearly nine-minute, dark metal assault of "To Traipse Alone." Izthmi deliver a more progressive metal vibe with the tempo changes of "This Listless World," before the aggressive metal attack of "Useless Is the Song Of Man, From Throats Calloused By Name." They finish off their new album with the thunderous pounding of "A Shout That Bursts Through The Silence Of Unmeaning" and the swift, energetic power metal delivery of "The Arrows Of Our Ways." To find out more about Izthmi and their latest release "The Arrows Of Our Ways," please visit facebook.com/Izthmi.