Gwen Stacy Add Tour Dates
Gwen Stacy have announced new headlining dates for December. The band who are currently headlining with support from Ice Nine Kills and Stray From The Path will be doing the Dec dates with support from Amarna Reign. The band is in support of their new album A Dialogue which was released last week. Reviews are pouring in such as NUVO, the Alternative weekly from the band’s home city of Indianapolis who gave the album 4 out of 5 stars and said Gwen Stacy “are very good at what they do.” Indie Vision Music.com said of the album “Any fan of the metalcore genre should pick this up and add it to their collection.” Coverage is also forthcoming in such publications as Alternative Press, HM Magazine and Substream. Also on tap is two new videos from the band, the first of which The First Words to premiere soon. In the meantime you can see the band’s video blog with new episodes on their myspace page.
Tour Dates:
11/12 – Dayton, OH
11/13 – Toledo, OH
12/11 – Bloomington, IN
12/12 – Franklin, IN
12/14 – Fairdale, KY
12/15 – Lansing, MI
12/16 – Grand Rapids, MI
12/18 – Ft Wayne, IN
12/19 – Indianapolis, IN
Abandon Kansas Go Digital
Coming off an amazing fall tour with House of Heroes and The Wedding, Abandon Kansas has just recorded their own version of the Christmas classic, O Come All Ye Faithful, available exclusively as a digital download on November 17. The band has also released a video of the recording session for the song, which can be found on the Abandon Kansas YouTube channel. True to their road warrior reputation, Abandon Kansas has opted to immediately head back on the road in support of their EP We’re All Going Somewhere in November with Owl City side-project Swimming with Dolphins.
Tour Dates:
11/13 – Carthage, MO
11/15 – Ft Smith, AR
11/16 – Texarkana, AR
11/17 – Pensacola, FL
11/18 – Hattiesburg, MS
11/19 – Houma, LA
11/20 – Irving, TX
11/21 – Wichita Falls, TX
11/22 – Muskogee, OK
New Kutless Album Does Well
Last week, BEC Recordings’ artist Kutless introduced “It Is Well,” the follow up to the RIAA Gold selling “Strong Tower” album, as radio listeners and media responded loudly to the album. Driven by the challenge to do something different, Kutless strived for this release to reflect the band’s heart and who God is. “We started with a goal, but, through the process, God took that goal and turned it back around to Himself,” shares the band in talking about “It Is Well.” “The quest for a special album became a unique time for us to go deeper in worship.” Resonating with fans, the project debuted at No. 42 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 3 on Billboard Top Christian Albums (in between WOW and Skillet) selling 11,385 units. This debut outsold their 2008 release “To Know That You’re Alive.” “It Is Well” also debuted on the iTunes Top Christian Albums chart at No. 1 and has remained in that position one week later. In addition, “It Is Well” peaked at No. 11 on the Overall Top Albums chart on iTunes. Radio stations and listeners are being impacted by the first single “What Faith Can Do” on all four formats (AC Monitored and Indicator, CHR, Inspo). The single was once again the No. 1 most added song at the AC Monitored format and had the highest spin increase this week landing at No. 15. At AC Indicator and Inspo, the single jumped up 4 spots to move into the Top 5 and secured a place in the Top 10 at CHR with the most spins. “Every day at KLOVE, we hear from friends who say that the right song played at the right time, and right now we are hearing that a lot about ‘What Faith Can Do’ from Kutless,” shares Scott Smith (APD/MD KLOVE). “The timeless message of hope is breathing life into our listeners!” Another radio program director, Greg Cassidy (PD/MD Joy FM St. Louis, MO), shares, “Kutless has quickly become one of our best testing bands…..they write great songs that hit our target demo where they live. ‘Faith’ is no exception….great calls and numbers! With their track record we felt good about adding it a bit early!”
For more information and tour dates, go to:
kutless.com
Seabird News
Seabird is back with a new single entitled Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful which hit all digital outlets this past Tuesday, November 3. The track is pulled off of their sophomore album, Rocks Into Rivers, which releases on December 15. A follow up to Seabird’s 2008 critically acclaimed label debut, ‘Til We See The Shore, Rocks Into Rivers features top-notch production by Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, Sixpence None The Richer) and Matt Hales from Aqualung. The band split its time between Ocean Studios in Los Angeles and The Smoakstack in Nashville, honing what brothers Aaron and Ryan Morgan are calling their most exciting project to date. Cincinnati-based Seabird comprises brothers Aaron (vocals/keys) and Ryan (guitar) Morgan as well as Preston Lane (drums). The band signed with Credential Recordings in late 2007 and released its debut label project,‘Til We See The Shore, June 24, 2008. A collaborative effort with producers Jacquire King (Modest Mouse, Kings Of Leon, Tom Waits, Switchfoot) and Allen Salmon (Mute Math), the album received phenomenal national publicity, featured on episodes of “Numb3rs,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and promos for ABC’s 12-time Emmy-nominated series, “Pushing Daisies.” The band was also recognized by its hometown as “Artist of the Year” at the 2008 Cincinnati Entertainment Awards and toured with artists including Barcelona, Meese, and Jars of Clay throughout the spring and summer of 2009.
For more information on Seabird & their upcoming album, visit:
myspace.com/seabird
Sancrosanct Records Sign Bought in Blood
Sancrosanct Records is proud to present Bought in Blood. Straight out of Pittsburgh, PA this band has it all. With their own mix of hardcore and metal influences ranging from bands like Since The Flood to Dragonforce, Bought In Blood hits their fans with driving riffs, forceful lyrics, and what some fans consider “just the right amount” of punishing breakdowns. “The reason we’re so excited about this band is that it is something new to the scene.” says Sancrosanct A&R rep Niel Granning. “We just can’t seem to bring our selves to eject the CD, and I think everybody who listens to this band will find that they too, will have the same affliction.” Bought in Blood has a powerful and controversial message, warning against the use of the word “Christian” to only be used to obtain a status, record label attention, or endorsement. Bought In Blood strives to bring back what’s been forgotten by many. The five piece has been playing since 2007 and Joe, Josh, Louis and Bill are still extremely dedicated to their music. Expect new big things from this band. Check out Bought in Blood’s EP “To the Wolves”.
Thousand Foot Krutch News
Thousand Foot Krutch released their fifth studio album “Welcome To The Masquerade” in September to resounding media and fan acclaim debuting at No. 35 on the Billboard Top 200 as well as on the iTunes overall and rock album charts. Supporting this new release and expanding their reach, TFK recently signed with Paradigm Agency (Coldplay, Avril Lavigne, Augustana). The band is represented by Larry Webman and Mike Snider. “As an observer of Thousand Foot Krutch over the years, I’ve seen a band that is great live, makes great albums, has radio hits and has all the tools to go to the next level,” shares Larry Webman, Paradigm Agency (New York). “We’re very happy to have them as a part of the Paradigm family.” Additionally, Mike Snider of Paradigm Agency (Nashville) states, “TFK has made the best record of their career, and I feel this band has everything in place. I just can’t believe I get to be a part of it.” Also last week, TFK launched their new street team, TFK Army, in conjunction with FanCorps. Fans can sign up for free and gain access to this exclusive online community as well as be a part of the street promotions team with tools provided via the street team site. Special opportunities to meet the band will also be a part of this team. You can sign up for TFK Army by going to the band’s website. “Fire It Up” has also become a hockey favorite as three teams (New York Islanders, Rockford Icehogs and Ottawa Senators) have been using the song either in pre-game warm-ups or for promo videos at their games. The Rockford Icehogs will be using this video at the start of their games in the 2009-10 season. The song “Fire It Up” isn’t the only track with traction from “Welcome To The Masquerade,” on Tuesday, October 27th, “Scream” was played during the Scream Awards (Spike TV) as Harrison Ford walked on the stage. The debut radio singles continue to gain momentum moving up the charts. The band celebrates their eighth No. 1 Rock single with “Bring Me To Life” (3 weeks straight) as well as entering the Top 15 on CHR with the single “Forward Motion.”
Deas Vail Gear Up For Sophomore Album
Hailing from Russellville, AR—Deas Vail gear up for their Mono vs Stereo debut, their sophomore full length album Birds & Cages out today at all digital outlets and set for a physical release street of January 26, 2010. The band will prove to be unstoppable with endless touring well into 2010. Currently you can find the band on the road with Mae and look for the band to kick into 2010 in high gear as they hit the road with Owl City on January 21. The band formed a few years ago while its members were students at Arkansas Tech in the Midwestern hamlet of Russellville, AR. While at school, Blaylock began writing songs he initially envisioned as solo works but as his affinity for the indie-rock scene grew, Deas Vail was born. With 1 full length and 2 EP’s already under their belt, Deas Vail mixes up a unique blend of indie-rock with Wes Blaylock’s distinctive upper register range and falsetto joined by the unfailingly sharp and frenetic guitar work of Andy Moore, then add in the hauntingly melodic sounds from keyboardist Laura Blaylock and the driving and cunning rhythm section of drummer Kelsey Harelson and bassist Justin Froning you get the original sound that only Deas Vail creates. Deas Vail’s Birds & Cages is the second release from the newly revived record label, Mono vs. Stereo, a partnership between Gotee Records and Relient K.
For more information, go here:
deasvail.com
Tour Dates:
1/21 – Kansas City, MO
1/22 – Oklahoma City, OK
1/23 – St Louis, MO
1/24 – Minneapolis, MN
1/26 – Madison, WI
1/27 – Cincinnati, OH
1/28 – Columbus, OH
1/29 – Towson, MD
1/30 – Norfolk, VA
2/1 – Charleston, SC
2/2 – Jacksonville, FL
2/3 – St Petersburg, FL
2/4 – Ft Lauderdale, FL
2/5 – Orlando, FL
2/6 – Athens, GA
2/8 – Birmingham, AL
2/9 – Baton Rouge, LA
2/10 – Little Rock, AR
Peter Case Returns To Stage
Following an unexpected coronary bypass operation in January of 2009, singer-songwriter-guitarist Peter Case returns to the stage at McCabe’s Guitar Shop on December 4 to celebrate his 25th anniversary as a solo acoustic performer. Case plans to debut new songs–his first to see daylight since 2007’s Grammy nominated Let Us Now Praise Sleepy John. Case put performance on hold for most of the year while recovering from heart surgery. The opportunity to focus on other aspects of musical life found him compiling archival works by the Plimsouls, the Nerves and the Breakaways, his post-Nerves project with bandmate Paul Collins; the pair reunited this summer at McCabe’s, where Case sat in during a Collins show. Walkin’ Out on Love by the Breakaways and the vinyl only release, The Nerves at Pirate’s Cove, were just released by Alive Recordings. The Plimsouls Live at the Whisky A Go Go, 1982 is set for release early next year. Case is also preparing to enter the studio for two solo projects. The summer season saw the return of Case to the stage for a triumphant solo acoustic show at Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Ranch in rural Ohio, where he received a most warm and enthusiastic response to his first show in six months. Case follows January’s operation and July’s gig with his December return to McCabe’s, the Southland’s most legendary room for live acoustic music and a venue close to Case’s heart. In 1984, Case made the bold decision to leave what he calls “a perfectly good rock band” to go solo. “It felt like I was reinventing the wheel,” said Case of the period in which very few of his peers had taken the plunge into solo acoustic music. Today, there are more singer-songwriters than there are hats at the singer-songwriter supply shop to fit them all, but Case is among his vocation’s finest. Witness the list of talent pooled in his name for a benefit to defray the uninsured musician’s medical costs following surgery: T-Bone Burnett, Loudon Wainwright, Dave Alvin, Richard Thompson, Eric Idle, Sam Phillips, Van Dyke Parks, Syd Straw, Stan Ridgway, Joe Henry…and the list goes on. All lent a hand during a mighty three-day weekend of fundraising at McCabe’s, where Case is a part of the family. “I realize I’m very lucky to have been supported by such a generous and talented community of musicians and friends,” says Case. McCabe’s is not only Case’s hometown club; it is host to his acclaimed songwriting workshops. Case has taught songwriting to beginning and advanced songwriters from Cape Cod, Massachusetts to Dublin, Ireland. This January’s sessions are a rare opportunity to pick up some songwriting secrets directly from a master, whose songs have been recorded by Alejandro Escovedo, James McMurtry, Todd Snider, the Goo Goo Dolls, the Go-Go’s and many, many more. “It’s great to be back,” he says.
Peter Case 25th Anniversary at McCabe’s Guitar Shop
December 4, 2009
8 p.m.
Tickets are $20
For more information contact
McCabe’s (310) 828-4497
Mccabesconcerts@gmail.com
For more information on Peter Case’s Songwriting Workshop contact
McCabe’s (310) 828-4497
Dreampilots News
Red Hammer Records rock band Dreampilots fly into rock radio airspace this week with their debut single “Comedown” from the album of the same name. With the music video already generating attention at top outlets like Gospel Music Channel and JCTV, the radio single debuted at #28 this week on both the Billboard Christian Rock Chart and the CRW Signature Rock Chart. Dreampilots released their North American debut album Comedown (Red Hammer Records/E1 Entertainment Distribution) in September to rave reviews, immediately landing on the iTunes “New and Noteworthy” list of current rock genre releases. The Norway-based foursome, which has drawn comparisons as diverse as U2, Switchfoot and Foo Fighters, is made up of veteran musicians with an incredible track record. Frontman and former Word Records UK artist Oddi Nessa is joined by bass player Gulleiv Wee, a founding member of the platinum selling pop band The September When, sought after keyboard player Inge Engelsvold and drummer Karl Oluf Wennerberg, who is also the current drummer for the multi-platinum group a-ha.
As I Lay Dying Wins At Hollywood Film Festival
The 13th Annual Hollywood Film Festival’s “Hollywood Awards” ceremony was on October 26th before a standing-room-only audience of over 1,100 Hollywood Film Festival attendees at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. The winners of the festival’s film competition were announced Sunday night at the “Hollywood Discovery Awards Presentation Ceremony at ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood. This year’s winners are: “CROSSING” by Kim Tae-kyun — Best Feature Film; “GARBAGE DREAMS” by Mai Iskander — Best Documentary; “SCENESTERS” by Todd Berger — Best Comedy; “STORIES FROM THE PERCH” by Andrew Zimbelman — Best Animation, “LAMBS” by Stephen Huff — Best Short Subject, “AS I LAY DYING – THE SOUND OF TRUTH” by Brian Thompson — Best Music Video. AS I LAY DYING frontman Tim Lambesis commented on the win “The Sound of Truth video could not have been made without an entire team of amazing people. It was a combination of two individually complex forms of art that came together seamlessly to create one great video I’m very proud of. The basic concept is related to the music and lyrics that we wrote, but Brian Thompson and his whole crew took that beyond what we could have imagined.” Directed by Brian Thompson, who helmed their futuristic clip for “Nothing Left,” the video for “The Sound of Truth” was made at Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, CA and is a continuation of the story the first video initiated. Like its predecessor, the story for this video was conceived by the band, fine-tuned by director Brian Thompson, and displays the irony and hypocrisy that takes place in a decaying futuristic society. Check out the video here.
Soundmass Signs Malchus
Soundmass is pleased to announce the signing of melodic/progressive metal band Malchus. Formed in May 2004 and hailing from Przeworsk, Poland, Malchus was founded by Radoslaw Solek (Radii), who also shares vocal duties with Illluminandi. Having recorded 4 demos and played a lot of local shows over the years, the band decided it was finally time to enter the studio to record and “Didymos” is the result. It is hard to label the style of Malchus. Their music is a union of heavy guitar sounds and technical keyboard play. Their compositions are characterized by their interesting structure and form. For an idea of what to expect from Malchus, imagine melding Opeth and Dream Theater. With vocal help from Illuminandi vocalist/guitarist Jan Trebacz, be on the lookout for “Didymos” to hit around the end of the year. In the meantime, visit the Malchus MySpace and check out “All The Glory (Wszelka Chwata)” and “Resurrection”.
For more information on Soundmass, visit:
soundmass.com
To Save A Life Secures Theaters
Samuel Goldwyn Films announced today that it has acquired U.S. theatrical rights to Brian Baugh’s directorial debut TO SAVE A LIFE, a New Song Pictures production. TO SAVE A LIFE is the story of an all-American teen Jake Taylor, who seemingly has it all. After a childhood friend’s death, Jake’s world turns upside down, and he is forced to make a decision that could change his life forever. TO SAVE A LIFE is about making unexpected choices and sacrifices, while having the courage and determination to persevere against all odds. “We wanted TO SAVE A LIFE to be different,” explains Baugh. “A film made with a different approach, a different production value, with a different vision. The film looks at real teen culture – as edgy and uncomfortable as it can be at times. And ultimately, the goal was to make a quality film that would be authentic – something teens would really relate to – with characters and a story that had credibility.” Goldwyn is working in association with Outreach Films and New Song Pictures to market, promote and publicize TO SAVE A LIFE and has slated a January 22, 2010 release. Goldwyn has released some of the most distinguished inspirational entertainment in recent years, including 2008’s highest grossing independent film FIREPROOF, FACING THE GIANTS and AMAZING GRACE. “We are confident that TO SAVE A LIFE will continue our proven track record of releasing faith based films” says Peter Goldwyn, Vice President of Acquisitions, “the success of which reaffirms the need for inspiring entertainment. TO SAVE A LIFE is not only deeply moving but also entirely engaging – – Brian and Jim have done a great job of really depicting the challenges that today’s youth face.” Outreach Films has already screened the film for over 10,000 teens, youth workers, parents and teachers. The overwhelming rave reviews on the strong realistic storyline, quality of the production and incredible cast raise the bar for films of this genre. TO SAVE A LIFE seeks to not only look candidly at choices teens make, but inspire them to impact their communities. TO SAVE A LIFE stars Randy Wayne (THE DUKES OF HAZZARD, FOREIGN EXCHANGE, THE LAST HURRAH, GRIZZLY PARK), Deja Kreutzberg (CSI MIAMI, LAW AND ORDER, HOPE AND FAITH), Kim Hidalgo (BALL DON’T LIE, NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE) and Sean Michael Afable (CHANNELS, AKEELAH AND THE BEE, PHIL OF FUTURE.) This is Brian Baugh’s directorial debut. He has DP’d many projects including: THE ULTIMATE GIFT, JACK AND THE BEANSTALK and THE LOST MEDALLION. The screenplay was written by Jim Britts, a graduate of BIOLA’s prestigious film school. Grammy winner Charlie Peacock is the music supervisor and Grammy, Emmy and Interactive Academy Award winning composers Christopher Lennertz and Timothy Wynn created the score. Britts states, “We hope that TO SAVE A LIFE can truly inspire a generation to help give a voice to the hurting and to make a difference in the lives of those around them. We are thrilled that Samuel Goldwyn Films shares our vision and we look forward to working together.” Meyer Gottlieb, President of Samuel Goldwyn Films negotiated the deal with Managing Producer Steve Foster of New Song Pictures.
For more information on this film, visit:
tosavealifemovie.com
©2009 HM Magazine All Rights Reserved
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