News

May 15, 2016

Thank you.

To request the full press release, dated February 2, 2016, please contact us at rockstarpr@aol.com.

Thank you.

January 20, 2016

GEOFF TATE’S OPERATION: MINDCRIME TO EMBARK
ON EXTENSIVE U.S. TOUR BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY

UPCOMING CONCERT PERFORMANCES TO FEATURE MAJOR HITS AND
FAN FAVORITES SPANNING GEOFF TATE’S ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER AS THE
ORIGINAL FRONT MAN OF QUEENSRYCHE, ALONG WITH NEW SONGS
FROM OPERATION: MINDCRIME’S RECENTLY RELEASED DEBUT ALBUM, “THE KEY”

On February 3, Geoff Tate and his new band, Operation: Mindcrime, will be hitting the road for over thirty dates on what will mark the band’s first major U.S tour of the year (see full tour itinerary below). This comes hot on the heels of their extensive European tour in November and December that took them to such countries as Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The trek was the band’s first in support of its debut album, The Key, which came out on Frontiers Music Srl in September 2015.

For the forthcoming U.S. tour, Geoff Tate will be joined by several of the stellar musicians and bandmates who performed on Operation: Mindcrime’s The Key, including guitarists Kelly Gray (Queensryche) and Scott Moughton (Geoff Tate), drummers Simon Wright (AC/DC) and Scott Mercado (Candlebox) and keyboardist Randy Gane (Myth).

Perhaps one of Geoff Tate’s most ambitious recordings to date, The Key examines what one might do if they discovered “the key” to changing the way we view the world, the way we look at time, the way we travel and could essentially change the human condition… for better or for worse.

The Key is the debut album under Tate’s new Operation: Mindcrime banner, a creative platform that continues in the spirit of the historic album of the same name, spawning concepts as grand as the music, and intertwining the intensity of the former Queensryche vocalist’s iconic past with the provocative, progressive mindset that has made him one of music’s most resolute forces and frontmen.

What can fans expect on this tour? The unexpected.

According to Tate, “I plan to play songs from Empire, Operation: Mindcrime 1 and 2, Rage for Order and my new album, The Key, along with favorites from all the other albums I recorded under the name Queensryche,” adding, “My band’s name may have changed but the songs remain the same.”

Tate has sold more than 25 million records at the helm of Queensryche, the band he fronted for 30 years from their inception through 2012, earning three Grammy nominations, five MTV Music Video Award nominations, and one MTV Music Video Award along the way.

The landmark concept album Operation: Mindcrime thrust Tate’s unique social consciousness, style and expertly crafted lyrics into the national spotlight in 1988, and was followed by Empire in 1990, the album that delivered Queensryche to arena-headlining status and sold more than three million albums on the back of hit singles and radio staples “Silent Lucidity” and “Jet City Woman.”

By the time the band released Promised Land in 1994, Geoff Tate was universally acknowledged as one of the greatest frontmen in rock and metal, and a driving force behind one of the most innovative bands in mainstream music.

From Mindcrime and Promised Land through 2009’s overlooked gem American Soldier – Tate’s ambitious concept album that explores the consequences of war as told through the voices of veterans – Tate’s 13-album tenure with Queensryche was marked by exploration, intrigue, bold risks and gratifying results.

The Key continues in that fine tradition.

Come February, Operation: Mindcrime will be bringing fans just what the doctor ordered with the usual surgical precision.

Call it “a musical journey to the center of your brain.”

Let the “Operation” begin.

Operation: Mindcrime will wrap up the initial leg of their tour in Geoff Tate’s hometown of Seattle, Washington with a performance at The Neptune on March 18.

For interview requests and additional materials, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

OPERATION: MINDCRIME ONLINE:
Website: www.operationmindcrime.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/operationmindcrimeband / www.facebook.com/geofftateofficial
Twitter: www.twitter.com/geofftate

OPERATION: MINDCRIME OFFICIAL VIDEOS FROM THE KEY:
Re-Inventing The Future: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vX7lRZmt8Hw
Burn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlVE5CvFc9c
The Stranger (lyric video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbjEBGBaI9M

FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL ONLINE:
Website: www.frontiers.it

THE ALBRIGHT ENTERTAINMENT GROUP ONLINE:
Website: www.rockstarpr.com

OPERATION: MINDCRIME U.S. TOUR 2016

FEBRUARY

3 – Strummer’s in Fresno, California
4 – The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, California
5 – Ramona Mainstage in Ramona, California
6 – Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill in Las Vegas, Nevada
9 – Psychedelic Ballroom & Juke Joint in Reno, California
10 – Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach, California
11 – The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, California
12 – The Catalyst in Santa Cruz, California
13 – Ace of Spades in Sacramento, California
15 – Rialto Theatre in Tucson, Arizona
16 – Livewire in Scottsdale, Arizona
18 – Sunshine Theater in Albuquerque, New Mexico
19 – Granada Theater in Dallas, Texas
20 – Alamo City Music Hall in San Antonio, Texas
21 – Scout Bar in Houston, Texas
23 – 12th & Porter in Nashville, Tennessee
24 – Capone’s in Johnson City, Tennessee
25 – Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte, North Carolina
26 – Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh, North Carolina
27 – Headquarters Live in Salisbury, Maryland
28 – Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, Pennsylvania

MARCH

1 – Gramercy Theatre in New York, New York
2 – The Paramount Theater in Huntington, New York
3 – The Westcott Theater in Syracuse, New York
4 – The Chance in Poughkeepsie, New York
5 – Tupelo Music Hall in Londonderry, New Hampshire
7 – Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis, Maryland
9 – Jergel’s Rhythm Grille in Warrendale, Pennsylvania
10 – House of Blues in Cleveland, Ohio
11 – The Token Lounge in Westland, Michigan
12 – Tailgaters Grill in Bolingbrook, Illinois
13 – The Cotillion in Wichita, Kansas
17 – Hawthorne Theatre in Portland, Oregon
18 – The Neptune in Seattle, Washington

October 20, 2015

SAX PLAYER EXTRAORDINAIRE EDDIE MANION,
WHO HAS TOURED AND RECORDED WITH SUCH ARTISTS AS
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND,
SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY AND THE ASBURY JUKES,
LITTLE STEVEN AND THE DISCIPLES OF SOUL
AND THE ROBERT CRAY BAND AMONG OTHERS,
SET TO RELEASE FIRST INSTRUMENTAL CD, NIGHTLIFE, ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17

EDDIE “KINGFISH” MANION TO CELEBRATE NEW ALBUM RELEASE
BY HOSTING AND PERFORMING AT SERIES OF “FIRST LISTEN PARTIES”
AT ASBURY PARK WHERE MUSIC LIVES BEGINNING THIS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23RD

Saxophonist Eddie Manion’s recording and touring work over the last ten years has been largely centered around his lifelong relationship with recording and touring artist Bruce Springsteen. Manion was a member of Springsteen’s Seeger Sessions band in 2005 recording the historic studio album We Shall Overcome and subsequent live album Live in Dublin and most recently was a part of Bruce Springsteen’s Wrecking Ball and High Hopes tours and studio albums on Columbia Records. Last year, Eddie completed a wildly successful 3 year worldwide tour with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band from 2012 to 2014, playing 167 shows in 27 countries to over 4 million fans.

Manion’s bold style of classic R&B and Rock & Roll ’Texas Tenor’ sound and his extensive expertise in leading and arranging for horn sections has led him to a 40-plus year career in Rock & Roll, R&B, Jazz, and Blues. You could say that any group that came out of New Jersey in the last 40 years that involved horns probably had something to do with Eddie Manion.

Manion first honed his prodigious musical style with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes in the late 1970’s and Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul in the early 1980’s. In a letter of recommendation dated February 23, 1984 Steven Van Zandt wrote: “‘Kingfish’ as we affectionately called him at the time was and still is one of the best tenor and baritone sax players I have ever worked with and I’ve worked with them all. His baritone sax solos on two songs I produced, “I Played the Fool” by Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes on Epic Records and “Forever” by Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul on EMI Records, stand as the definitive rock and soul performances of the genre.”

Rounding out Manion’s Rock & Roll Jersey Shore Legend status have been extensive tours with Willy DeVille, Diana Ross, Dave Edmunds and other artists. Eddie was a member of the Robert Cray Band in 1993 and recorded the Grammy-nominated Blues album Shame + A Sin on Mercury Records.

Eddie Manion has lived a life of Rock & Roll, R&B, Jazz, and Blues. Whenever Bruce Springsteen needed a horn section he has always called Manion; initially in 1977 for a historic group of shows at the Monmouth Arts Center in Red Bank, on his 1988 Tunnel of Love Tour, right up to his most recent Wrecking Ball and High Hopes world tours from 2012 – 2014.

Nightlife is Manion’s first solo instrumental release and it features songs that he’s loved over his many years as a masterful player. The album will be officially released on November 17th. All tracks were recorded and mastered by Grammy Award winner Hollis Greathouse of Audible Images in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “City at Night / Soul Serenade” was mixed by Grammy Award winner Toby Scott.

The new album includes Manion’s take on Gene Pitney’s gorgeously mournful “Town Without Pity”; R&B classics such as “It’s Gonna Take A Miracle” and “A Change is Gonna Come”; Jimmy Forrest’s “Bolo Blues”; Jazz standards “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” “Tenderly,” and “Stardust”, Springsteen deep cut “City at Night” paired brilliantly with King Curtis’ “Soul Serenade”; Roy Orbison’s “The Only One”; Luiz Bonfá’s “Manhã de Carnaval;” and the bluesy title cut “Nightlife” by Willie Nelson. These selections make for a sweet, soulful, and romantic mix which is downright perfect for romantic, cuddly evenings in front of the fireplace with your loved one.

The album also contains a booklet of photographs taken by Manion as he traveled the world on the most recent Springsteen tour. He is an accomplished photographer and this makes the new album even more special. “When I’m on the road, I like to get out of my hotel room and take a few pictures of this beautiful world in which we live,” says Manion.

Eddie Manion will be a featured artist on the Light of Day Europe 2015 Tour this fall, which will encompass shows in the British Isles, Scandinavia, Italy and Germany. Eddie will host his Official UK Record Release Party for Nightlife at the Hind Hotel in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England on December 7. Tickets are available only via The Hind Hotel on 01933222827 or enquiries@thehind.co.uk He will also be a featured artist at two Light of Day Canada shows on November 6 and 7 www.lightofdaycanada.com and in July 2016 he will head to Light of Day Australia.

Manion will also host First Listen Parties for his new album at Asbury Park Where Music Lives on October 23rd and 24th 12 -3 PM and October 25th 7-10 PM (a few tickets remain at http://tickets.asburyparkmusiclives.org/). He will perform a few selections from the new album joined by his E Street cohort, keyboardist Charlie Giordano. Manion will also join Dave Marsh on E Street Radio to premiere the new album live on air 10am-noon Wednesday, October 21st.

​​On January 9, 2016 Ed Manion will headline an official record release show at the world renowned Strand Theater in Zelienople, constructed in 1914 and recently renovated. Fellow Pittsburgh musician and good friend Joe Grushecky will open the show acoustically with Manion. Other musicians and special guests will be announced closer to show date. ​Tickets may be purchased either by calling the Box Office 724-742-0400 or via this web link: ​ https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/952416 ​.​

​For more information on Eddie Manion, links to pre-order the new album, and tour dates please visit http://www.eddiemanion.com/.

If you’d like to interview Eddie regarding the forthcoming CD or tour dates, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

# # #

July 7, 2015

GEOFF TATE’S OPERATION: MINDCRIME TO UNLOCK PART ONE

OF EPIC MUSICAL TRILOGY WITH RELEASE OF “THE KEY”

ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 ON FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL

“THE KEY” — A TWELVE-SONG DISC FEATURING SUCH SONGS AS

“BURN,” “RE-INVENTING THE FUTURE,” “LIFE OR DEATH?” AND “THE FALL” —

TO EXPAND MINDS THROUGH MUSIC BY PONDERING THE DISCOVERY OF

“THE KEY” THAT COULD CHANGE THE WAY WE PERCEIVE THE WORLD

On Friday, September 18, Geoff Tate’s new band, Operation: Mindcrime, will be releasing its long-awaited debut album, The Key, on Frontiers Music Srl.

Perhaps one of Tate’s most ambitious recordings to date, The Key examines what one might do if they discovered “the key” to changing the way we view the world, the way we look at time, the way we travel, and could essentially change the human condition… for better or for worse.

Fresh from the creative mind of Geoff Tate, The Key features a dozen songs (see entire track listing below) and marks part one of an epic musical trilogy that initiates that very question within a web of international politics, the world economy and social ethos.

A trailer featuring snippets of four songs from the album (“Burn,” “Re-Inventing the Future,” “Life Or Death?” and “The Fall”) is now available at https://youtu.be/zOEL6lc1Xsl, with pre-orders of the album now being taken at http://radi.al/TheKeyAmazonCD and http://radi.al/TheKeyAmazonMP3.

The Key is the debut album under Tate’s new Operation: Mindcrime banner, a creative platform that continues in the spirit of the historic album of the same name, spawning concepts as grand as the music, and intertwining the intensity of the former Queensryche vocalist’s iconic past with the provocative, progressive mindset that has made him one of music’s most resolute forces and frontmen.

Geoff Tate has sold more than 25 million records at the helm of Queensryche, the band he fronted for 30 years from their inception through 2012, earning three Grammy nominations, five MTV Music Video Award nomimations, and one MTV Music Video Award along the way.

The landmark concept album Operation: Mindcrime thrust Tate’s unique social consciousness, style and expertly crafted lyrics into the national spotlight in 1988, and was followed by Empire in 1990, the album that delivered Queensryche to arena-headlining status and sold more than three million albums on the back of hit singles and radio staples “Silent Lucidity” and “Jet City Woman.”

By the time the band released Promised Land in 1994, Geoff Tate was universally acknowledged as one of the greatest frontmen in rock and metal, and a driving force behind one of the most innovative bands in mainstream music.

From Mindcrime and Promised Land through 2009’s overlooked gem American Soldier – Tate’s ambitious concept album that explores the consequences of war as told through the voices of veterans – Tate’s 13-album tenure with Queensryche was marked by exploration, intrigue, bold risks and gratifying results.

The Key continues in that fine tradition.

“Musically, this album is quite adventurous,” says Tate of his first release in a new worldwide deal with Frontiers Music SRL. “Of course there are key elements in the music, melody and phrasings that are really identifiable, but throughout my career I’ve opened my eyes and ears to new standards and arrangements, and that’s what keeps things fresh and exciting as an artist – we’ve thrown out the rules for this record, and it’s been really liberating. I’m a fan of old prog, and that music didn’t stick to rules. It’s inspiring and enjoyable to be able to explore, and it’s great being in a position to write without constraints.”

The results are a series of albums that don’t languish in nostalgia, instead offering listeners an opportunity to delve into a world of ideas and inspiration that Tate has been nurturing for the better portion of the last decade. Instead of asking, “Who killed Mary?”, Operation: Mindcrime now asks, “What are the implications of changing the world?”

“Like every album I’ve ever done, people will hear and experience it differently, and that is something that I look forward to,” continues Tate. “Music is an intimate experience – your inspirations are unique to you, and will be heard differently through every set of ears and experiences – but isn’t that really what makes art exciting? It inspires us all in different ways and for different reasons, and this album is no different. There are quite a few sections of this album that help propel the story with segues and dialogue, but the lyrics don’t lay out a breadcrumb trail and tell the story in a linear fashion, there’s a puzzle. We have several characters, and three other people singing lead vocals on the first album. That made it even more fun for me and helps give the album its own special character.

“Musically, there’s quite a smorgasbord, we’ve played with sound and established a sound palate – heavy guitar, obviously, cool drumming… all the music is very sophisticated, and there are interesting time changes, the band is playing with different countings and we switch throughout each piece. We can perform the verse in one feel, the bridge in another, and transition to a new chorus, very challenging stuff and lots of different sounds that people probably haven’t heard on one of my albums before – new and different guitar sounds and vocal treatments, very dynamic stuff.”

Joining Tate on The Key are a hard-hitting cast of familiar faces and new collaborators: bass players Dave Ellefson (Metal Allegiance) and John Moyer (Disturbed, Adrenaline Mob), drummers Simon Wright (AC/DC), Scott Mercado (Candlebox) and Brian Tichy (Billy Idol, Ozzy Osbourne), guitarists Kelly Gray (Queensryche) and Scott Moughton (Geoff Tate), keyboardist Randy Gane (Myth) and vocalist Mark Daly (The Voodoos).

Tate makes one point exceptionally clear – Operation: Mindcrime isn’t a band, it is a musical project of like-minded people uniting to achieve a common goal. While the songwriting rests predominantly on the shoulders of Tate, Gray and Gane, it’s up to every contributor to add their influence and help color the landscape.

“The songs on these records tell a story, and each song is a scene or chapter – every scene is different. The words tell the story, the musical bed, the chord progressions and melodies, they set the pace. That’s how I envisioned this album in total, very theatrical and definitely cinematic.

“How do we describe passion?” Tate asks in conclusion, cautiously answering his own question: “Music is a personal journey, and all you can do is write what moves you. That’s what passion is – it’s so difficult, yet it’s such an important human emotion. There are moments on this record that really impact me, the questions raised and the music those questions are set to… I don’t know if it will have that same effect on everyone else, but that’s where my passion and their passion meet. I do this because I love doing it. I love touring and I love playing live, performing with like-minded people in front of like-minded audiences, and being there in the moment together when all of our passions collide.”

And if, in the process, Geoff Tate can tell a story that turns people on end and keeps them talking long after the music has stopped playing? That’s not just icing on the cake, that’s what it’s all about…

That is Operation: Mindcrime.

And come this September, fans will have The Key.

With music videos currently in production and a first single that’s expected to be released by the end of this month, further mind expansion is yet to come.

OPERATION: MINDCRIME’S THE KEY TRACKLISTING:

Choices

Burn

Re-Inventing The Future

Ready To Fly

Discussions In A Smoke Filled Room

Life or Death?

The Stranger

Hearing Voice

On Queue

An Ambush Of Sadness

Kicking In The Door

The Fall

SNIPPETS OF “BURN,” “RE-INVENTING THE FUTURE,” “LIFE OR DEATH?” AND “THE FALL” CAN BE HEARD AT:

https://youtu.be/zOEL6lc1Xsl

PRE-ORDER LINKS (GLOBAL) FOR OPERATION: MINDCRIME’S DEBUT ALBUM, THE KEY, ON AMAZON:

http://radi.al/TheKeyAmazonCD

http://radi.al/TheKeyAmazonMP3

ALBUM CREDITS:

Recorded and Mixed by Kelly Gray

OPERATION: MINDCRIME ONLINE:

Website: www.operationmindcrime.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/operationmindcrimeband / www.facebook.com/geofftateofficial

Twitter: www.twitter.com/geofftate

FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL ONLINE:

Website: www.frontiers.it

# # #

For interview requests and additional materials, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

THE ALBRIGHT ENTERTAINMENT GROUP – www.rockstarpr.com

June 15, 2015

ROCK THE YACHT TOUR 2015 TO SAIL ACROSS UNITED STATES

THIS SUMMER WITH LITTLE RIVER BAND, AMBROSIA, PLAYER,

STEPHEN BISHOP AND ROBBIE DUPREE PERFORMING NOTHING BUT THE HITS

NEW TOUR WITH DATES BEGINNING IN JULY

TO FEATURE POPULAR SONGS FROM THE SEVENTIES AND EIGHTIES

If you feel like “Reminiscing” this summer and have a tendency to keep “Holdin’ On To Yesterday,” then we’ve got just the concert ticket for you!

“Baby Come Back!”

“Help Is on Its Way!”

Rock The Yacht 2015 — featuring Little River Band, Ambrosia, Player, Stephen Bishop and Robbie Dupree — is coming at you with a boatload of sensational songs from the late seventies and early eighties.

While the full tour itinerary has yet to be announced, Rock The Yacht is expected to “dock” in at least a dozen cities throughout the United States beginning in mid-July (see below for current itinerary).

Little River Band was formed in Melbourne, Australia in 1975. It was originally a blend of musicians who had enjoyed success in other Australian rock acts. Their new focus was to get airplay on American radio, and they achieved that goal with good songwriting, powerful vocals and guitar harmonies. They immediately claimed their place as one of the great vocal bands of the ’70s… and the ’80s! Between 1976 and 1983, their chart success in America included the following singles: “It’s a Long Way There,” “Help Is on Its Way,” “Happy Anniversary,” “Reminiscing,” “Lady,” “Cool Change,” “Lonesome Loser,” “The Night Owls,” “Take It Easy On Me,” “Man On Your Mind,” “We Two” and “The Other Guy.” Considered to be one of Australia’s most significant bands, Little River Band boasts worldwide album and CD sales topping 30 million. They were the first band to have Top 10 hits for six consecutive years. According to BMI, two of their most popular songs, “Reminiscing” and “Lady” have had five million and four million airplays in America, respectively. In 2004, they were, rightfully, inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame. The current line-up brings new energy and arrangements to the classic hits, making new memories for the audience out of each live performance. This year, you’ll likely see plenty of people mouthing the words, “I love this song… I forgot it was one of Little River Band’s hits!”

Ambrosia is an American rock band formed in southern California in 1970. They had five Top 40 hit singles between 1975 and 1980 and, after a hiatus during the late 1980’s, most of the original band members have been active with the group for the past 25 years to the present day. In 1975, Ambrosia would release their self-titled debut album on 20th Century Fox Records that featured the Top 20 single, “Holdin’ On To Yesterday.” The legendary Alan Parsons engineered the album, which would be nominated for a Grammy Award in the “Best Engineered Recording” category. That same year, all four members of Ambrosia would play on the first album from the Alan Parsons Project. In 1976, the band would release, Somewhere I’ve Never Traveled, which also received a Grammy nomination, setting the stage for the band’s signing to Warner Bros. Records. The year 1978 marked Ambrosia’s biggest pop breakthrough with their first gold single, “How Much I Feel,” off Life Beyond L.A.. Two years later, they would have Top 20 single success with two singles, “Biggest Part of Me” and “You’re the Only Woman (You & I),” featured on their One Eighty release. Ambrosia appeared on the May 2, 2011 episode of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon as part of the host’s “Yacht Rock 2k11” theme show, performing “Biggest Part of Me” (during the show) and “How Much I Feel” (after the formal taping, but put up on the Late Night website). Today, the band consists of original members Joe Puerta (bassist/vocalist), Christopher North (keyboardist) and Burleigh Drummond (drummer) and they continue to tour all over the world, performing both their legacy hit material and more recent songs.

The band Player features original members Peter Beckett and Ronn Moss and is best known for their international number one hit, “Baby Come Back.” Their biggest hit came about when Peter had just split from someone he had been in a relationship with for a long time. Still feeling the pain, he sat down with J.C. Crowley to write, and their moods were reflected in the song. First played on the radio in October of 1977, it would ultimately reach the top of the charts in January of 1978. Later that year, Player would be voted “Best New Single Artist” by Billboard magazine’s honor roll. Just two months after “Baby Come Back” hit the pinnacle position on the charts, Player would experience another Top 10 hit with “This Time I’m In It For Love,” which also appeared on their self-titled debut album, Player. Quick to capitalize on their immense success, the band would release another album that year, Danger Zone, that featured a Top 40 hit called, “Prisoner of Love.” Where their first album captured the sunny sound of California pop, Danger Zone illustrated the band’s progressive pop/rock side with heavier guitars pushed to the front. The core of the band reunited in 2007 and in 2013, released their most recent studio effort titled, Too Many Reasons (Frontier Records). That same year, they embarked on a summer tour called Sail Rock with Christopher Cross, Orleans, Gary Wright, Firefall, John Ford Coley and Robbie Dupree.

At the age of 13, Stephen Bishop found himself a crossroads. A clarinetist with hopes of becoming a history teacher, he was forever changed after watching the Beatles one night on The Ed Sullivan Show. He soon convinced his brother to buy him an electric guitar, wrote his first song called, “Surf’s Turf,” and formed a band called The Weeds that played original and Top 40 songs at local fraternity parties. He headed to Los Angeles, where he walked the streets playing his $12 acoustic guitar, playing songs for various publishers in Hollywood. Through a friend, Art Garfunkel heard some of Stephen’s songs and, ultimately, recorded two for his 1975 Breakaway album. It wouldn’t be long before he was singing his songs in person for the likes of Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Bette Midler and Michelle Phillips. He signed a record deal with ABC Records and released his debut album, Careless, in 1976 that featured the hit songs, “Save It For a Rainy Day” and “On and On.” The album went gold as did his ’78 follow-up, which was simply titled, Bish. He sang the theme, “It Might Be You,” from the movie, Tootsie, in addition to writing or singing songs for thirteen other films including White Nights and Animal House. Yes, that’s Stephen singing “I Gave My Love a Cherry” on the staircase at the toga party, when John Belushi takes away and smashes his guitar.

Singer, songwriter Robbie Dupree began his music career in the clubs of New York’s Greenwich Village in the late 60’s. After years of performing in Rhythm and Blues bands (including one called New World Rising with renowned producer and guitarist Nile Rodgers), Robbie relocated to Los Angeles in 1978 in search of a new music world. The move paid off as a new musical partnership was born with old friends Rick Chudacoff and Peter Bunetta, leading to Robbie’s first recording contract on Elektra Records. His debut album from 1980 produced two major hit singles, “Steal Away” and “Hot Rod Hearts,” both of which are now classics. In 1981, Robbie was honored by being nominated for a Grammy Award in the “Best New Artist” category. Robbie’s music can be heard in major motion pictures, network television shows and national sports events. VH1 recently featured a profile of his enduring career… He continues to record and maintain a full touring schedule, performing on concert stages around the world.

Isn’t it time for a “Cool Change?”

Come on board and Rock The Yacht this summer!

If you’d like to interview one of the artists regarding the tour or need additional press materials, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

ROCK THE YACHT TOUR 2015

Wednesday, July 15 – Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, New Jersey

Thursday, July 16 – St. George Theatre in Staten Island, New York

Friday, July 17 – NYCB Theatre at Westbury in Westbury, New York

Thursday, July 23 – Fraze Pavilion in Kettering, Ohio

Friday, July 24 – RiverEdge Park in Aurora, Illinois

Sunday, July 26 – North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts (Ambrosia, Firefall, Player, Stephen Bishop and Robbie Dupree)

Wednesday, September 16 – Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky

Friday, September 18 – IP Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

*More dates expected to be announced.

Individual Artist Websites are as follows:

www.littleriverband.com

www.ambrosialive.net

www.player-theband.com

www.stephenbishop.com

www.robbiedupree.com

June 2, 2015

MELVIN SEALS & JGB TO PAY HOMAGE TO JERRY GARCIA

AT THIRD ANNUAL AFTIVAL IN AUGUST BY RECREATING

TWO LEGENDARY JERRY GARCIA BAND SHOWS FROM 1976

AFTIVAL PERFORMANCES BY MELVIN SEALS & JGB ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 14

AND SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 AT THE HIVE IN SANDPOINT, IDAHO

TO FEATURE TRAVIS BEAN GUITAR PREVIOUSLY OWNED AND PLAYED

BY THE LATE, GREAT JERRY GARCIA ON SELECT TOUR DATES IN 1976

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND TO PERFORM WITH JERRY GARCIA’S

TAKAMINE EF360S, MARKING FIRST TIME GUITAR HAS BEEN PLAYED IN PUBLIC

SINCE JERRY GARCIA USED IT WITH THE JERRY GARCIA ACOUSTIC BAND,

INCLUDING THE FAMOUS AND HISTORIC LUNT FONTANNE RUN IN 1987

Jerry Garcia and Grateful Dead fans have, yet, something else to look forward to this summer as the band celebrates their 50th Anniversary in 2015.

Welcome to AFTIVAL, a two-weekend concert series at The Hive in Sandpoint, Idaho taking place on August 7-8 and 14-15 hot on the heels of the Grateful Dead’s Fare Thee Well three-night spectacle at Chicago’s Soldier Field in early July.

Weekend one will be kicked off by The Funky Meters on Friday (8/7), with the Yonder Mountain String Band hitting the stage on Saturday (8/8), where the band’s guitarist/vocalist Adam Aijala will be playing with the very same Takamine EF360s that Jerry Garcia played from approximately 1985 until 1988, including the famous Lunt Fontanne shows in October of 1987. This marks the first time the guitar will be used for a public performance since Jerry performed with it on stage in ’87.

The second weekend of the third annual AFTIVAL will feature two rare and unique performances by Melvin Seals & JGB as the band recreates two Jerry Garcia Band performances from 1976 song-by-song using the same Travis Bean TB500 #11 guitar owned and played by Garcia in these shows in 1976.

“We look forward to bringing Melvin Seals & JGB to The Hive for what promises to be a truly memorable AFTIVAL event,” states Jeff Grady, Hive owner, AFTIVAL producer and owner of three historically significant, stage-played Jerry Garcia guitars, including the Travis Bean TB500 #11.

“Watching JGB guitarist and vocalist David Hebert perform with Jerry’s guitar at the two shows will be a special moment for all in attendance, including me,” comments Jeff, adding, “It will be an historic tribute where Jerry’s guitar will be reunited with the music that Jerry loved so much… this particular guitar is seen and heard on the Grateful Dead album, Long Strange Trip. Twenty years almost to the week after his passing, Jerry will definitely be here in spirit.”

Melvin Seals is looking forward to the show stating, “We haven’t been to Idaho in a while… looking forward to seeing all the fans and rocking the house!”

Celebrating its third year, AFTIVAL follows the Festival at Sandpoint where, for over thirty years, people have traveled hundreds and even thousands of miles to see music artists over the course of consecutive weekends in August.

What initially started off as a rather local event has now attracted followers from surrounding states and beyond.

As an avid music fan, Jeff Grady’s initial mission with both The Hive and AFTIVAL was to bring great music to Sandpoint… mission accomplished.

Located at the foot of the Selkirk mountains and on the shores of beautiful Lake Pend Oreille, The Hive has become one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier live music venues.

“We hope to conjure up some great vibes by honoring Jerry Garcia over these two nights in August and, wholeheartedly, expect Jerry and Dead fans from all over the country to attend.”

While the four remaining original members of the Grateful Dead — Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, Phil Lesh and Bob Weir — gear up for their epic three-night “Fare Thee Well” 50th Anniversary concert event (with renowned musicians Trey Anastasio, Jeff Chimenti and multiple GRAMMY-winner Bruce Hornsby) taking place on July 3, 4 and 5 from Chicago’s Soldier Field, Dead fans can certainly anticipate the Sandpoint tribute to Jerry Garcia by Melvin Seals & JGB come August.

On Friday, August 14, The Hive — located at 207 North First Avenue in Sandpoint, Idaho — will be hosting a special Meet & Greet reception with Melvin Seals & JGB prior to the show (5:00pm – 6:00pm) for those who purchase a VIP ticket for that evening (or Saturday). A special $50 ticket will enable ticket buyers access to both the M&G and show that night. Fans will get the opportunity to meet Melvin and the band and will also be able to view three historically-significant guitars that were once owned and played by Jerry Garcia that will be on display (Travis Bean TB500 #11, Travis Bean TB500 #12 and Takamine EF360s). “Up close and personal.”

What a long strange trip it’s been… and the appearance of Melvin Seals & JGB at this summer’s AFTIVAL only proves it isn’t over yet.

Tickets for each of the four shows are $40 and go on sale today, Tuesday, June 2, via the TicketsWest link on The Hive site – www.LiveFromTheHive.com.

A four-show ticket is available for $120.

A select number of VIP booths are available for all four shows.

Please contact VIP@LiveFromTheHive.com for further information.

Tickets can also be purchased day-of-show at the venue.

If you’d like to interview Melvin Seals or Jeff Grady, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at RockStarPR@aol.com.

Additional press materials (Melvin Seals & JGB photos, images/history of the Jerry Garcia guitars and venue photos) are available upon request.

AFTIVAL SITE – www.LiveFromTheHive.com

MELVIN SEALS & JGB SITE – www.MelvinSealsandJGB.com

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRAING BAND SITE – www.YonderMountain.com

THE FUNKY METERS – www.FunkyMeters.com

TICKETSWEST – www.ticketswest.com

FESTIVAL AT SANDPOINT SITE – www.FestivalatSandpoint.com

AFTIVAL is brought to you by Low Country Boil Productions.

May 28, 2015

TIME TO LET YOUR FREAK FLAGS FLY AS HIPPIEFEST TOUR

RETURNS THIS SUMMER TO CELEBRATE ONE OF GREATEST ERAS IN MUSIC

DANCE TO THE MUSIC AS THE LEGENDARY GROUP, THE FAMILY STONE,

HEADLINES HIPPIEFEST TOUR 2015 WITH RICK DERRINGER,

MITCH RYDER & THE DETROIT WHEELS AND BADFINGER FEATURING JOEY MOLLAND

Hey, all you former hippies and hipsters, it’s time to let your freak flags fly once again, as the popular Hippiefest tour returns this summer to celebrate an incredible era in music and American culture.

To say that it will be “hot fun in the summer time” and a “family affair” would be an understatement, as the legendary group, The Family Stone, will headline this year’s ten year anniversary Hippiefest tour that will feature Rick Derringer, Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels and Badfinger featuring Joey Molland.

If you’ve attended a Hippiefest show in the past decade, you know what to expect… an incredible evening full of good time, on your feet, rock and roll.

If you haven’t, it’s time to turn on, tune in and see what it’s all about!

Beginning in early July, “flower power” returns for its seventh tour in ten years on a psychedelic journey that will likely encompass twenty dates spanning the United States throughout the beginning of October (see current itinerary below).

The Family Stone — featuring original founding members Jerry Martini, Cynthia Robinson and Greg Errico — will be performing the music of Sly & The Family Stone including such classics as “I Wanna Take You Higher,” “Everyday People,” “Hot Fun in the Summertime,” “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),” “Family Affair,” “Everybody is a Star,” “Stand!” and “Dance to the Music.” The group recently welcomed Phunne Stone, daughter of Sly Stone and Cynthia Robinson, as their new female vocalist leading them into their 50th Anniversary in 2016. The band initially hit the scene in 1966 and was the first major American rock band to have an “integrated, multi-gender” lineup. In 1993, Sly & The Family Stone were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, who would eventually cite two of their songs, “Dance to the Music” and “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again),” among The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll. In 2001, they were awarded the R&B Foundation Pioneer Award and, in 2004, Rolling Stone ranked them 43rd on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All-Time. In 2006, Sly & The Family Stone would make a memorable appearance at the Grammy Awards. Joining Cynthia, Jerry, Greg and Phunne is the powerful lead vocalist, Alex Davis, Musical Director and bassist Blaise Sison and lead guitarist Nate Wingfield.

It’s doubtful that anyone will be sitting down when Rick Derringer breaks into his well-known rock anthem, “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” Forty plus years after its release, the song continues to be a staple on classic rock radio and was featured in several movies including The Spirit of ’76, Rush, Stag, What A Girl Wants and the cult classic, Dazed and Confused. It’s a little known fact that years before his success as a solo artist, Rick had a band at the age of 17 called The McCoys that had a #1 hit in 1965 called, “Hang on Sloopy.” The song would eventually be knocked out of the top spot by The Beatles’ “Yesterday.” A year after its release, The McCoys would find themselves as the openers for the entire Rolling Stones American tour. Although “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” was written and recorded a few years earlier with friend Johnny Winter, it would be Rick’s solo version in 1973 that would propel him into the stratosphere of rock. In 1977, he would appear on the last Led Zeppelin North American Tour. In the years to follow, Rick would perform with such artists as Alice Cooper (“Under My Wheels”), Steely Dan (“Show Biz Kids” and “Chained Lightning”), Todd Rundgren, Richie Havens, Edgar Winter, Johnny Winter and Weird Al Yankovic among others. In 2011, Rick toured as a part of Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band just prior to embarking on that year’s Hippiefest tour. In recent years, Rick has performed on the popular Rock’n’Blues Fest tour that has included Edgar and Johnny Winter.

The hits began for Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels at the tail end of ’65, with the release of their first hit single, “Jenny Take a Ride!”. In 1966, they recorded and began to perform a medley featuring Little Richard’s “Jenny Jenny” and Chuck Willis’ classic R&B song, “C.C. Rider.” The song would quickly enter the Top Ten charts, setting the stage for what was to come that year. Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels would follow up their initial hit with two more in ’66 including a rendition of the Righteous Brothers’ “Little Latin Lupe Lu” and the song that would, ultimately, be their biggest hit, “Devil With A Blue Dress On/Good Golly Miss Molly.” A year later, in typical Detroit fashion, Mitch and the band kept their pedal to the metal and delivered another Top Ten song called “Sock It To Me-Baby!” Shortly after his success with The Detroit Wheels, Mitch Ryder would experience a Top 40 hit as a solo artist with “What Now My Love.” At the end of 1979, Bruce Springsteen would pay tribute to the band by performing the “Detroit Medley,” a selection of the band’s greatest hits including “Devil With A Blue Dress On/Good Golly Miss Molly,” “Jenny Take A Ride!” and “C.C. Rider” for the triple live No Nukes album. In 1983, Mitch released an album titled, Never Kick A Sleeping Dog, produced by John Cougar Mellencamp that thrust him back into the spotlight with the Prince-penned song, “When You Were Mine.” Mitch has recorded over two dozen albums in his illustrious career and continues to tour all over the world. Known for his incredible live show, Mitch is coming at you with all his hits in a night to remember.

If you’re aware of such classic rock songs as “Come and Get It,” “No Matter What,” “Day After Day” and “Baby Blue,” then you’ll thoroughly enjoy the Hippiefest performance of Badfinger featuring Joey Molland. A veteran of Hippiefests past, Molland returns with the music he helped make famous. At the end of 1969, Joey auditioned for a band called The Iveys that would soon be renamed Badfinger. As they say, the rest is history. From 1970 to 1972, the band would experience four consecutive worldwide hits. Joey departed in 1974, quickly forming another band called Natural Gas that would go on to tour with Yes and Peter Frampton. In the years to follow, Joey would perform with various incarnations of Badfinger in addition to putting out a few solo projects. Due to its use in the finale of the hugely popular TV show, Breaking Bad, “Baby Blue” has had a recent resurgence of sorts, being introduced to a whole new audience and generation. On March 31 of this year, a song Joey wrote years ago titled, “Sweet Tuesday Morning,” was released on iTunes to benefit WhyHunger (www.whyhunger.org), a grassroots support organization started by the late, great Harry Chapin. Recorded by Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs) and a new songstress by the name of Savannah, the song features Joey on guitar and harmony vocals.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again…

Bring your parents, your grandparents and bring the kids!

Great music and tie-dye never go out of style… no shoes, no shirt, no problem!

Peace, Love and Happiness.

See you there!

If you’d like to interview one of the artists regarding the tour or need additional press materials, please contact Jeff Albright / The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

Hippiefest Tour 2015

July 9 – Fox Tucson Theatre in Tucson, Arizona

July 10 – Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa in Ferndale, Washington

July 11 – Crossroads KC at Grinders in Kansas City, Missouri (The Family Stone, Rick Derringer, Badfinger featuring Joey Molland and Peter Rivera)

July 12 – Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio, Texas

July 25 – Tioga Downs Casino & Racetrack Grandstand in Nichols, New York (Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals, Lovin’ Spoonful, Rick Derringer and Badfinger featuring Joey Molland)

August 8 – Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel in Morton, Minnesota (The Family Stone, Rick Derringer and Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels)

August 13 – The Florida Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida

August 14 – Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

August 15 – Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, Florida

August 16 – The Plaza Live Theatre in Orlando, Florida

August 20 – South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset, Massachusetts

August 21 – Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis, Massachusetts

August 22 – NYCB Theatre at Westbury in Westbury, New York

August 23 – Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, New Jersey

October 2 – Tarrytown Music Hall in Tarrytown, New York

October 3 – Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois

October 4 – Genesee Theatre in Waukegan, Illinois

October 6 – Norfolk County Fair in Simcoe, Ontario, Canada (Rick Derringer, Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels and Badfinger featuring Joey Molland)

*Additional dates likely to be announced.

Individual Artist Websites are as follows:

www.thefamilystonemusic.com

www.rickderringer.com

www.mitchryder.net

www.badfingersite.com

May 27, 2015

DAVE MASON’S TRAFFIC JAM,

FEATURING THE LEGENDARY GUITARIST AND VOCALIST DAVE MASON,

TO PERFORM ON FOUR DIFFERENT HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

OVER FOUR CONSECUTIVE NIGHTS BEGINNING THURSDAY, JUNE 11

Aloha!

It’s been over three years since legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist Dave Mason has performed in the Hawaiian Islands and he’s looking forward to his long-awaited return next month.

Beginning Thursday, June 11, Dave and his band, Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam, will be hitting the stage at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Castle Theatre for his first of four shows in four consecutive nights on the Hawaiian Islands.

The performance in Maui will be followed by shows at the Kauai Community Center on Friday night (6/12), the Honokaa Theater on the Big Island on Saturday night (6/13) and the Mamiya Theatre in Honolulu on Sunday night (6/14).

The last time Dave island-hopped was in December 2011, when he joined the Steve Miller Band for performances on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island.

The performance at the Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu, Oahu was particularly memorable as he, along with Jack Johnson and Henry Kapono, joined Steve Miller on stage for Steve’s classic song, “The Joker.”

Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam takes fans on a journey back to the greatest days of rock with a show full of music history as Dave retraces the earliest days of his career with Traffic and the works that launched his successful solo career.

A career that now spans over an incredible five decades.

Dave, of course, co-founded the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band with Steve Winwood while both were still teenagers, creating music that would find its way into the hearts of generations of music lovers.

He would go on to further establish himself as a successful songwriter, guitarist and solo artist.

Over the years, Dave has penned several hits along the way including classic rock radio favorite “Feelin’ Alright” (originally recorded by Traffic in 1968 and a year later by Joe Cocker), “Only You Know and I Know” and “Hole in My Shoe” among others.

He enjoyed seeing “Feelin’ Alright” performed by Barry Minniefield and Jack Gregori on NBC’s immensely popular TV show, The Voice, in March and, ultimately, gave both an open invitation to join him on stage at some point this year.

During his illustrious career, Dave has performed and recorded with such rock and pop legends as Paul McCartney, George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, David Crosby, Graham Nash, “Mama Cass” Elliot, Derek and the Dominos and Delaney and Bonnie.

Yes, that’s Dave playing the 12-string acoustic guitar on Jimi’s classic rendition of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.”

The year’s already been a busy one for Dave as he has performed dozens of dates thus far including a special engagement on the Rock Legends Cruise III in February.

In September, Dave will be a special guest performer at the Lockn’ Festival’s Mad Dogs & Englishman tribute to the late, great Joe Cocker that will feature the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Leon Russell, Rita Coolidge, Chris Robinson, Doyle Bramhall II and friends, taking place at the Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, Virginia.

In addition to his own music endeavors, Dave is heavily involved with Little Kids Rock, a non-profit organization that provides free musical instruments and lessons to children in public schools throughout the United States. He sits on the organization’s Board of Directors as an honorary member.

More recently, Dave has focused some of his off-stage efforts towards a charity called Work Vessels for Veterans (WVFV), an all volunteer movement that provides veterans transitioning to civilian work with tools that have ranged from computers to boats to tractors.

“Thank You” — a song written and recorded by Dave as a tribute to our Vets — can be downloaded for free at this link – http://www.davemasonmusic.com/thank-you-veterans.

A true rock and roll road warrior, Dave likes to perform upwards of 100 dates a year or more…

Traffic Jam pulls out all the stops and is one show that shouldn’t be missed this year.

For further information, please see Dave’s official website at www.davemasonmusic.com.

If you’d like to conduct an interview with Dave, please contact Jeff Albright at The Albright Entertainment Group at rockstarpr@aol.com.

Mahalo!

Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam Tour Dates 2015 (through September)

June 11 – Maui Arts & Cultural Center / Castle Theatre in Kahului, Maui

June 12 – Kauai Community Center in Lihue, Kauai

June 13 – Honokaa Theater in Honokaa, Hawaii

June 14 – Mamiya Theatre in Honolulu, Oahu

June 19 – The Golden State Theatre in Monterey, California

June 20 – Harrah’s Tahoe South Shore Room in Stateline, Nevada

June 25 – City Winery in Chicago, Illinois

June 26 – City Winery in Chicago, Illinois

July 7 – Opera House at Boothbay Harbor in Boothbay Harbor, Maine

July 9 – Cavendish Beach Events Center in Prince Edward Island

July 16 – New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, New Jersey

July 17 – The Flying Monkey Performance Center in Plymouth, New Hampshire

July 18 – Lowell Summer Music Series in Lowell, Massachusetts

July 19 – Payomet Performing Arts Center in Truro, Massachusetts

July 21 – City Winery in New York, New York

July 25 – The Paramount in Huntington, New York

July 27 – Ocean City Music Pier in Ocean City, New Jersey

September 10 – Lockn’ Music Festival in Arlington, Virginia (Dave solo as special guest)

September 11 – Lockn’ Music Festival in Arlington, Virginia (Dave solo as special guest)

September 17 – The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia

September 18 – Landis Theater in Vineland, New Jersey

September 19 – Keswick Theatre in Glenside, Pennsylvania

September 20 – Penn’s Peak in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

*Please see Dave’s site for confirmed dates beyond September.