Blue Öyster Cult thrills capacity crowd at The Coach House

Blue Öyster Cult, from left, Eric Bloom, Richie Castellano,
Buck Dharma and Kasim Sulton.

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photos by Bob Steshetz

Blue Öyster Cult
With: Gun Boat Kings
Where: The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA
When: Friday night, March 31, 2017

Over the last few years I've been fortunate to catch Blue Öyster Cult in concert several times, but those occasions were either special industry showcases (most recently at the 2015 NAMM Show; see review here) or when BÖC was opening for another artist (see my review here of BÖC and Deep Purple bill at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa in summer 2014).

Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser impressed on both
lead vocals and lead guitar at The Coach House.

So when the chance came to catch the groundbreaking American hard rock troupe in a headlining role at the legendary Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Friday night, I knew I had to be there. The venue was packed and the excitement at seeing BÖC in a relatively intimate setting was palpable. 

This year marks the 50th anniversary of BÖC. Formed on Long Island, NY in 1967, the band was originally called Soft White Underbelly until 1971. As the quintet proved across its two-hour performance on Friday, BÖC has a rich and varied discography stretching back to the band's self-titled 1972 debut and continues to deliver top-tier performances. 

Jules Radino behind the kit.

The band's lineup includes Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (lead guitar, lead vocals), Eric Bloom (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Jules Radino (drums), Richie Castellano (keyboards, lead guitar, backing vocals) and Kasim Sulton (bass, backing vocals). All made significant solo and collaborative contributions to the music making across the 17-song set.

After opening with a straight-forward rocking take on "The Red & the Black" and the satisfying prog rock-meets-hang banging "Golden Age of Leather" (complete with stellar vocal harmonies), the show's power quotient seemed to suddenly lift higher. "Burnin' For You" is one of the band's most beloved songs and soared this night. Dharma s distinctive lead vocals and lead guitar work, the lush mix of backing voices and the song's infectious and mysterious soundscape worked on a multitude of intoxicating levels. 

Richie Castellano at the Coach
House on March 31, 2017.

Another early highlight of the set included the '80s-styled synth foray "Shooting Shark," complete with Castellano and Dharma each playing multiple guitar solos; each of the sorties was very different and added depth to the song. Equally strong was "The Vigil," a bona fide masterwork that blended psychedelic and progressive rock styles, challenging vocal harmonies, and both tandem and solo guitar lines that were melodic and imaginative.

BÖC continued to unfurl one great song and one great performance after another. "Dancin' in the Ruins" was a melodic juggernaut, Castellano's keyboards and Dharma's emotive vocals layered atop the driving rhythm section. Old time rock 'n' roll ("ME 262," "Before the Kiss, a Redcap"), progressive rock (the ambitious "Then Came the Last Days of May"), melodic pop rock ("True Confessions") and post-punk rock ("Tattoo Vampire") offered up a masterclass in the importance of exploring new ground 

Eric Bloom in action at The Coach
House on March 31, 2017.

After thrilling the faithful with a powerful take of the band's 1977 hit "Godzilla," Dharma stood on the stage alone and performed a nuanced five-minute solo on his electric guitar. As the other band members filled in around him, he went into the iconic opening of "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" and BÖC simply lifted the audience to an even higher place.

The audience was not about to let the night end yet, and after an extended standing ovation, the band returned to perform a strong encore that was as potent as the regular set. "Perfect Water" was particularly powerful, a prog rocker with the characteristic mix of artful arrangement, wonderful musicianship and virtuoso musicianship that makes BÖC such a unique and treasured artist.

Opening for BÖC was the Gun Boat Kings, a six-man ensemble based in Southern California. The group impressed with a mix of original material that mixed up '70s-styled blues-rock, R&B, folk rock, jazz and soul. 

"Those Green Eyes" was an especially-strong song, a detailed and involving song that fused its run with a mix of soul, rock 'n' roll and R&B. "Angelina" was also convincing, recalling some of the strong cuts on Jefferson Starship's Red Octopus album with its jazzy and R&B flourishes.

Richie Castellano of BÖC.

Blue Öyster Cult setlist at The Coach House on March 31, 2017
The Red & the Black / Golden Age of Leather / Burnin' For You / Shooting Shark / The Vigil / Dancin' in the Ruins / ME 262 / Before the Kiss, a Redcap / Then Came the Last Days of May / True Confessions / Tattoo Vampire / Godzilla / (Don't Fear) The Reaper

Encore
Black Blade / Perfect Water / Hot Rails to Hell / Cities on Flame With Rock and Roll

2015 Winter NAMM Show: Kenny Howes at Rickenbacker, DigiTech, MUSIC WORTH BUYING episodes, more!

As many of my regular readers know, I am often juggling my duties as co-host of MUSIC WORTH BUYING, while penning concert reviews for The Orange County Register as well as providing album reviews and other coverage for Music News Nashville, Desert Star Weekly and this site.

So it's no surprise while covering the 2015 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, a few interesting things somehow didn't get into either my print-bound or video coverage I was juggling over the course of the (National Association of Music Merchants) NAMM Show last month. Here is a final recap of my 2015 journey to NAMM…

In the past after covering Media Preview Day on Wednesdays and subsequently surviving 12-15 hour marathons on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, I tend to skip Sundays so I can work on writing and posting that day (while giving my feet a break too!). Because I felt I didn't actually get to get out on the floor and actually check out enough of the great gear and instruments this year, I I did spend about eight hours at NAMM on Sunday (Jan. 25).  So now, FINALLY, I will try to fully catch you up on some last-minute news and notes from the show that drew an estimated to the Anaheim Convention Center last weekend.

Kenny Howes at Rickenbacker
Photo: Robert Kinsler

While hanging out at Rickenbacker International Corp, I got to talk to talented singer-songwriter-guitarist Kenny Howes, who is also a substitute bassist for The Smithereens. Based in Atlanta, GA, Howes is one of the leading proponents of the current power-pop scene. I may well be in the minority of music critics, but I believe that The Smithereens were one of the best bands to emerge during the 1980s. Lead singer Pat DiNizio and company would get my vote for a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

In addition to playing part-time with the Smithereens and playing solo shows, Howes told me he is working on a new album too. His last album, 2012's wonderful Tornadoes Here & Past featured special guests Marty Willson-Piper of The Church (another band I love) and aforementioned DiNizio.

"I worked with Rickenbacker for so long and developed tons of friendships," Howes told me during our brief chat. "It's great to reconnect with all those people and see all the fun new stuff. And I make a mini-vacation out of it."

On the last day of NAMM, the day kicked off with the annual "Best in Show" event, and indeed, there was plenty to celebrate via a number of cool products highlighted. 

The DigiTech TRIO Band Creator pedal not only received a "Best In Show Award" but proved to be a lot of fun when I saw the device used up-close by my MUSIC WORTH BUYING co-host TJR on Sunday afternoon. It may sound crazy, but the device allows a guitarist to create the sound of playing along with a bassist and drummer. "Users simply need to plug a guitar into TRIO, press the footswitch to teach TRIO the chords and rhythm, then press the footswitch again to start playing with a customized personal band," according to the accurate description on a media release issued by US Music Corporation on Jan. 25, 2015.

“TRIO is like no pedal ever created – it’s an entirely new type of musical accompaniment device,” said Tom Cram, Marketing Manager, DigiTech. “With TRIO, one musician can now sound like a full band. It’s an incredibly creative and useful performance tool for solo artists, or just a great way to have fun while practicing and jamming.”

The TRIO Band Creator Pedal will be available in March 2015. No band? No problem...


Finally, a special thank you to the aforementioned TJR and Kathy Barrett for their work with me on our four episodes providing a pretty good tour of our NAMM experience. You can watch all episodes via the embedded links below!

credits

2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music Rocks the NAMM Show

Good morning, here is an update and recap of the 2015 She Rocks Awards held at NAMM last weekend...

2015 She Rocks Awards Honoring Women in Music

Rocks the NAMM Show

Awards featured performances by multi-platinum artist Colbie Caillat, rock icons The Bangles, Grammy nominated saxophonist Mindi Abair, guitarists Orianthi and Richie Sambora, and more

From left: She Rocks Awards winners Debbie Cavalier, Craigie Zildjian, Amani Duncan, Katie Kailus, and Gayle Beacock; She Rocks Awards Founder and Co-Host Laura B. Whitmore; Zepparella drummer Clementine; She Rocks Awards winner and performer Vicki Peterson of The Bangles; guest keyboardist Jenna Paone; She Rocks Awards winner and performer, saxophonist Mindi Abair; Eva Holbrook of SHEL; She Rocks Awards winners and performers Susanna Hoffs and Debbi Peterson of The Bangles; Zepparella bassist Angeline Saris; and Zepparella guitarist Gretchen Menn attend the She Rocks Awards during NAMM at the Anaheim Hilton on January 23, 2015 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Kevin Graft)

A who's who of music industry execs, celebrities, luminaries and supporters of women in music, gathered on Fri., Jan. 23 in the Anaheim Hilton hotel’s Pacific Ballroom to celebrate the 2015 She Rocks Awards, an event paying tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry.  

Named one of Billboard magazine's "7 must-see events at NAMM," the sold-out She Rocks Awards were held by parent organization the Women's International Music Network (the WiMN), and were co-hosted by WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore and guitarist, solo artist and 2013 She Rocks Awards winner Orianthi.  

Honorees included Music Inc. editor, Katie Kailus; Vice President of Brand Marketing at Martin Guitar, Amani Duncan; multi-platinum artist, Colbie Caillat; Grammy Award nominated sax player, Mindi Abair; legendary band The Bangles; Vice President for Online Learning and Continuing Education/CEO for Berklee College of Music’s award-winning online continuing education program, Berklee Online, Debbie Cavalier; Vice President of iconic Capitol Studios, Paula Salvatore; Avedis Zildjian CEO, Craigie Zildjian; Beacock Music Co-Owner, Gayle Beacock; and owner of Robo Records, Rob Christie, the first-ever male to receive a She Rocks Awards.  

“The 2015 She Rocks Awards brought together hundreds of powerful men and women in the music industry who filled the venue with a level of energy and excitement unlike any other She Rocks Awards we’ve held in the past. To know that this many people support our mission of advancing women in the music industry is extremely uplifting and reassuring. We set the bar high this year,” said WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore.  

The event featured electrifying performances by Orianthi with a surprise cameo by Richie Sambora; Mindi Abair; The Bangles; Colbie Caillat; SHEL; and the house band comprised of Zepparella members Gretchen Menn on guitar, Angeline Saris on bass, Clementine on drums, and guest keyboardist Jenna Paone.  

Highlights of the event include a stellar performance of Mindi Abair’s song “Kick Ass” with Orianthi stepping in for the guitar duties. A moving speech by Craigie Zildjian reflected on the company’s 400-year past and her role as the first female CEO in its history. And a grand finale closing performance of The Bangles’ “Walk Like an Egyptian,” as current and past award winners joined the rock icons on stage with Cleopatra-like poses.  

The She Rocks Awards was sponsored by The Gretsch Company, Guitar Center, Seymour Duncan, The Avedis Zildjian Company, Martin Guitar, Weber Mandolins, Fishman, 108 Rock Star Guitars, Casio, PRS Guitars, Yamaha, Berklee Online, Roland, Kind, LAWIM, International Musician, Making Music Magazine, 95.5 KLOS, OC Weekly, as well as NewBay Media, and their publications Guitar World, Guitar Player, Acoustic Nation, Bass Player, Electronic Musician and Keyboard Magazine.

For more information, visit www.thewimn.com. 

Concerts shine at 2015 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim

The talented and genre-be-damned singer-pianist Jamie Callum headlined the
Yahama Entertainment Group's Dealer Concert on Jan. 23, 2015 at NAMM.Photo: Shalon Goss

Now that I recovered a bit from the 40 or so hours I spent at the 2015 Winter NAMM Show (Jan. 21-25) in Anaheim, I want to look back at some of my favorite concert moments of the event.

Chase Bryant, right, led his three-man band through
a solid set at Taylor Guitars. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015
While waiting to cover the much-anticipated Peavey Electronics 50th Anniversary Concert at the Hilton, I decided to go check out rising young Nashville-based country artist Chase Bryant at Taylor Guitars. Although I wasn't there to specifically cover the show and didn't take notes, I was immediately impressed by Bryant's confidence as a performer as well as his strong vocals and fluid guitar playing throughout his 35-minute set. From the upbeat opener "Wayfarer Weather" (with its artful segue into Bryan Adams' "Run To You") and equally-infectious follow-up "Little Bit of You" to the tender ballad "Change Your Name" with its a cappella close, the 22-year-old Texas-spawned singer-guitarist is an artist to watch. I am looking forward to catching up on Bryant and listening to his self-titled 2014 Red Bow Records debut soon. Information: You can watch Bryant's performance at Taylor Guitars here.

A number of musicians performed at the aforementioned Peavey event held at the Anaheim Hilton on Thursday night, but my single favorite performance was Blue Öyster Cult's opening set. Although the classic rockers performed a short four-song set, it was high on energy and boasted the band's most beloved rock classics. You can read my full review of the concert event on The Orange County Register site here.

Vintage Trouble, from left, guitarist Nalle Colt, singer Ty Taylor,
drummer Richard Danielson and bassist Rick Barrio Dill at
Taylor Guitars. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Friday, Jan. 23, 2015
Vintage Trouble turned in my favorite single set of the long weekend, and based on the energy of the large audience crowded into Taylor Guitars, no surprise there. The Los Angeles quartet has impressed every time I have caught them live (including at both Coachella in 2013 and Doheny Blues Festival last year).

The band's 36-minute set at NAMM was mostly acoustic, but boasted the energy of just about any other group's electric set. 
"It's Christmas for musicians," singer Ty Taylor said before the set in talking about the thrill of being at NAMM. "Merry Christmas everybody."

Opening with "Lo and Behold," Vintage Trouble's R&B groove was the perfect sonic backdrop for Taylor's Sam Cooke-styled vocals. Even though he armed an acoustic guitar for the opener, master guitarist Nalle Colt unleashed the first of what would be a number of strong solos, this one with a definite blues feel.

Another five involving and energetic tracks followed, with the infectious rock 'n' soul gem "Never Mind" (complete with attendees pumping their hands in the air), James Brown-minded "Strike Your Light" (with all four members positioned at the front of the stage, and Taylor ultimately wading into the crowd) and set-ending rocker "Blues Hand Me Down" thrilling those lucky enough to get into the intimate Taylor Guitars showcase. 

You can watch Vintage Trouble's amazing performance at Taylor Guitars here.

Colbie Caillat performing at the Yamaha Dealer Concert on
Friday night, Jan. 23. Photo: Shalon Goss

My next stop was the annual Yamaha Entertainment Group Dealer Concert being staged at the Hyperion Theater at Disney's California Adventure. The line-up was impressive:

The Piano Guys

Tom Scott

Nathan East

Toto featuring Mr. Talkbox

Colbie Caillat

Bob James

Jonathan Butler

James Blunt

and Jamie Cullum 

It was all hosted by Sinbad. 

There was a wide range of musical styles showcased at the event, including folk, pop, rock, jazz and more. Highlights included Toto teaming with bassist Nathan East for a celebrative "Africa,"  Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat singing "Bubbly" and then sitting at a piano for an uplifting "Try" (the lead single from her most recent studio album Gypsy Heart).

The highlight of the night came with Jamie Cullum's headlining performance, where he truly mixed up jazz, blue-eyed soul, jazz pop and other styles expertly. A skilled pianist, singer and dynamic showman, his "These Are the Days" and rousing "I Feel Fine" were the perfect way to introduce the British artist to many who undoubtedly were not familiar with him. Those who prefer a traditional approach likely loved his joining forces with smooth jazz pianist Bob James to perform Cole Porter's "Just One of Those Things." He ended his set with the swirling "Mixtape,' an indie pop song that morphed magically into a jazz piece in its instrumental section. A fantastic set to be sure. 

Hit Dog Hollar performing on the GoPro Stage at NAMM.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015

I caught two noteworthy performances on Sunday afternoon. Moonville Collective was an eight-member band true to its name, playing thrilling bluegrass-styled Americana on the GoPro Stage for 40 fast-paced minutes. 

Following on the same large outdoor stage was San Diego-based rockers Hit Dog Hollar. The band somehow blended a heavy neo-grunge sound with blues and roots rock via winning rockers such as the Southern rock-styled "Battle of San Pasqual" and banjo-adorned "Barnstormers." The band closed with a Coachella-worthy "Chairman," which included hard rock and nuanced textures along the way.

Robert Kinsler

Members of Blue Öyster Cult, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Van Halen rock Peavey 50th Anniversary Party at NAMM

Rickey Medlocke, Robert Randolph, Gary Rossington and 
Michael Anthony perform at the 2015 National Association of 
Music Merchants show at the Anaheim Convention Center on 
January 22, 2015 in Anaheim, CA. 
(Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

Peavey Electronics 50th Anniversary Concert

Who: Members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blue Öyster Cult, Van Halen, more

Where: Anaheim Hilton California Ballroom, NAMM Show

When: Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015

When major music manufacturers throw a party at the NAMM Show, they tend to go big.

So the thousands of attendees able to secure a spot inside the Hilton Anaheim's California Ballroom on Thursday night (Jan. 22, 2015) knew they were in for a unique night of music making courtesy of a party celebrating the 50th anniversary of Peavey and its 73-year-old founder and CEO Hartley Peavey. 

After a number of in-person and video tributes to Hartley Peavey, it was all about the music.

Blue Öyster Cult, from left, featured Eric Bloom, 
Richie Castellano (not clearly seen), Buck 
Dharma, drummer Bobby Rondinelli, and bassist 
Rudy Sarzo. (Photo:Robert Kinsler)

Blue Öyster Cult, a trio of members from Lynyrd Skynyrd, original Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, famed pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph and all-star drummer Kenny Aronoff (Sting, John Mellencamp, John Fogerty, Walter Trout) were all showcased during the hour-long finale of the event.

While Blue Öyster Cult performed only four cuts, few seemed disappointed. Singer-guitarists Buck Dharma and Eric Bloom led the outfit through their biggest hits with an intensity suited to loosen up a crowd of industry insiders. The opener "Burnin' For You" displayed both Dharma's still-blazing fret work and the band's influential blend of hard rock and melodic song craft. "Godzilla," with tandem vocals from Dharma and Bloom and instrumental solos from guest bassist Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot) and drummer Bobby Rondinelli (Rainbow, Black Sabbath) was also a crowd pleaser. The ambitious rocker "Cities on Flame With Rock and Roll" came next, featuring Richie Castellano on keys. On the set-ending "(Don't Fear) The Reaper," the energy in the hall was lifted even higher and the extended version was bolstered by a gigantic finale complete with Aronoff joining the band to add some percussive cowbell.

Robert Randolph and Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Gary 
Rossington perform at the 2015 National Association of
Music Merchants show at the Anaheim Convention Center 
  on January 22, 2015, in Anaheim, California.
 (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

While the BÖC set was tight and recalled an abbreviated version of the groundbreaking band's outstanding outing at the Pacific Amphitheater in August 2014, the night-ending jam featuring the other stars on hand proved to be a more loose - and ultimately - unique affair. This five-song set spotlighted Lynyrd Skynyrd members Gary Rossington (guitar), Rickey Medlocke (guitar, vocals) and Peter Keys (piano) joined by Anthony (bass, vocals), Randolph (pedal steel, vocals) and Aronoff thrilling behind the drum kit.

Robert Randolph, Gary Rossington and Michael Anthony
perform at the 2015 National Association of Music
Merchants show at the Anaheim Convention Center on 
January 22, 2015 in Anaheim, California. 
(Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

The set opened with a version of Bo Diddley's "Who Do You Love?" highlighting Randolph on vocals, with his fiery slide work and Rossington's distinctive Southern rock guitar sound blending to give new life to the oft-covered classic. Next up came a rousing version of the Skynyrd hit "Gimme Three Steps," with Medlocke and Anthony sharing lead vocal duties. With the subsequent "The Breeze," the supergroup hit even harder; Randolph, Rossington and Medlocke all playing dramatic lead together. Keys also was able to showcase his fluid style on piano and the overall spirit of the set was most perfectly captured here. When the song ended the obviously-thrilled Randolph said: "This is a blast. Thank God for NAMM."

The night didn't end until the ensemble tore through a rocking version of "Sweet Home Alabama" and Van Halen's "Ain't Talking About Love."

Review by Robert Kinsler

Photos taken by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM, and Robert Kinsler

NAMM 2015 update: Taylor Guitars, Roland, Marshall Amplification, IK Multimedia

Headed to NAMM this weekend? Here are some noteworthy new products to check out while in Anaheim…

The Expression System Baby™ Pickup with Onboard Tuner joins the Baby Taylor Series

ANAHEIM, Calif. - January 23, 2015 - For the ultimate on-the-go, plug-and-play experience, Taylor Guitars is announcing the addition of the Expression System Baby™ pickup to its line of popular travel guitars, the Baby Taylor Series. The Expression System Baby, or the ES-B, is based on Taylor's patented behind-the-saddle pickup, the Expression System 2, which features three uniquely positioned and individually calibrated piezo sensors. The location of the sensors enables a more dynamic range of acoustic sound to be captured than ever before. The ES-B is powered by an onboard preamp that incorporates volume and tone controls, plus another handy feature: a built-in digital chromatic tuner. The integrated electronics blend exceptional amplified tone and tuning capabilities into an all-in-one system for a seamless plug-and-play experience. The new models include the three-quarter-size Dreadnought Baby Taylor, the Baby Taylor Mahogany, and the Taylor Swift Baby Taylor, along with the 15/16-scale Big Baby Taylor. All models feature a solid wood top (mahogany or Sitka spruce), layered sapele back and sides, and a genuine ebony fretboard and bridge. The ultra-portable Baby Taylor models are perfect for beginners, as a travel guitar, or for alternate tunings. Now paired with the ES-B pickup, players can record, plug-in or perform just about anywhere. The electronics-equipped models will be designated with the addition of "e" as Baby Taylor-e, Baby Mahogany-e, Taylor Swift Baby Taylor-e, and Big Baby Taylor-e, and will be available at authorized Taylor dealers in February. To locate a dealer, please visit http://www.taylorguitars.com/dealers   To experience the guitars during the 2015 NAMM Show, please visit the Taylor Guitars Showcase on the second floor, Room 213 ABC.   For additional news from Taylor Guitars, please visit: www.taylorguitars.com/news www.twitter.com/TaylorGuitars Roland announces Eric Johnson Blues Cube Tone Capsule Custom Voicing Circuit for the Blues Cube Amplifier Series Roland is pleased to announce the Eric Johnson Blues Cube Tone Capsule, a user-installable voicing circuit for the innovative Blues Cube guitar amplifier series. Developed with GRAMMY-winning guitarist and tone connoisseur Eric Johnson, the Tone Capsule changes the sound and response characteristics of the Blues Cube amps to provide custom voicings tuned and approved by the legendary artist himself. Featuring Roland’s unique Tube Logic design approach, the reinvented Blues Cube amps deliver the rich sound and musical touch response of finely tuned vintage tube combos, along with convenient modern features and reduced weight. In developing the Blues Cube, Roland engineers integrated the ability to re-voice the amplifier via a Tone Capsule socket on the chassis, a powerful capability now unveiled for the first time. Eric Johnson’s fluid playing style and exceptional tone are iconic, and his ear for meticulous perfection is well known among guitar enthusiasts. Desiring the same high level of sound, feel, and responsiveness that Eric demands from his vintage amplifiers, the Blues Cube team asked the guitarist to work closely with them on the Tone Capsule project. “I am very interested in pursuing new paths to getting tone,” Eric explains. “When the Blues Cube team asked if they could present an amp with new tone capabilities, I was intrigued.” The Eric Johnson Tone Capsule takes the Blues Cube’s already great sound and fine-tunes it to suit the guitarist’s exacting requirements. Eric’s expert audio design captures his discriminating tastes in texture, voicing, and rich tone, enabling every Blues Cube owner to put the legend’s remarkable vintage amp insights under their fingers. Eric is extremely impressed with the Blues Cube’s factory tone, and he likes the idea of having both the factory tone and his custom settings available separately. “Many guitarists may prefer the factory Blues Cube sound over mine,” Eric explains. “The factory tone will appeal to many kinds of players.” “I’ve spent years finding amplifiers to suit my tonal quest and discerning criteria to get my sound,” Eric says. “I’m excited to work with Roland to create many aspects and persona of that sound in a more compact, tangible, and affordable version for all kinds of players.” To learn more about the Eric Johnson Blues Cube Tone Capsule and the detailed story behind its development, visit www.RolandUS.com. Marshall Introduces Woburn Bluetooth Music Speakers Named for locations in London that are significant to the history of Marshall Amplification, Marshall Headphones has produced a range of portable music speakers with high quality audio reproduction and the classic look of Marshall amps.   Just like the glory days of rock ‘n’ roll the Woburn signifies freedom – the freedom to play your music wherever you want, in multiple ways. The largest in the Marshall music speaker series, the Woburn can really rock the place. It’s built to thrill. The Woburn produces clean pronounced high frequencies and handles bass with ease, with defined and articulate midrange. The analogue Treble, Middle and Bass controls give you a tactile experience that is becoming increasingly rare in the digital world. And with two standby modes, the Woburn’s over all environmental impact is reduced, by switching to Powersaver mode when not actively in use.   The Woburn’s big, powerful sound holds true to the legacy of Marshall. Its vinyl covering, gold piping, vintage style fret and the iconic Marshall script logo gives this modern technology a vintage aesthetic straight from the rock ‘n’ roll era. Available now at your local dealer and marshallamps.com, Stanmore is supplied with a double ended 3.5mm coiled audio lead and features Bluetooth connectivity. The Woburn’s clear, accurate sound is produced by a two 5 ¼” woofers and two 1” dome tweeters. Marshall Amplification is distributed in the USA by US Music Corp. US Music Corp, located in Buffalo Grove, Illinois is an international musical instrument company that manufactures and distributes products worldwide under the Washburn, Parker, Randall, and Oscar Schmidt brand names, as well as being the exclusive US distributor for Marshall, Eden, Natal, Hagstrom, Warwick, Framus, Quik Lok and DigiTech. US Music is a subsidiary of Jam Industries, Ltd. For more information on Marshall Amplification, visit www.marshallamps.com For more information on US Music Corp, visit www.usmusiccorp.com For more information on Jam Industries, Ltd., visit www.jamindustries.com

IK Multimedia announces iRig PowerBridge, the universal charging solution for all iRig accessories using iPhone, iPad and iPod touch 

Now musicians can play endlessly with their favorite iRig accessories on their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch

IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music creation technology, today announced (Jan. 22, 2015) iRig® PowerBridge, a new charging system for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch that allows for the continuous charge of the device while using iRig accessories. Now mobile musicians can practice, perform and record with their favorite 30-pin or Lightning compatible digital IK gear — like iRig Mic HD, iRig HD, iRig Keys, iRig PRO or iRig MIDI 2 — for as long as they want, anytime and everywhere.

A streamlined solution
The reason IK Multimedia’s iRig range of digital interfaces, microphones and controllers are so popular among musicians is because they offer the highest quality sound in every mobile situation. IK’s iRig accessories are able to accomplish this because they connect via the 30-pin or Lightning connector of an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. While this offers significant advantages in terms of performance, it comes at the expense of battery life — with an accessory connected, it is impossible to perform for an extended period of time without recharging. iRig PowerBridge is an elegant solution to this problem. 

iRig PowerBridge combines a power supply and an ultra-low noise power conditioner that connects to a power outlet on one end and a Lightning or 30-pin iPhone, iPad or iPod touch on the other. Between both ends is a female Mini-DIN connector that can be used to connect any digital iRig accessory with a Mini-DIN or Micro-USB port. Through this connection, iRig PowerBridge allows continuous charging while also passing along audio and MIDI information between the digital iRig accessory and the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch.

Through this streamlined setup, musicians can keep their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch charged and play with their favorite digital iRig accessories and powerful IK apps for as long as they want, whether they’re performing on stage, recording in the studio or just jamming at home.

Effortless portability, intuitive use
iRig PowerBridge has been designed with portability in mind. It sports a lightweight and compact enclosure that musicians can easily carry in their gig bag of choice. Available as either a 30-pin or Lightning version, it connects quickly for use and features an LED that provides at-a-glance visual feedback while charging. 

Pricing and availability 
iRig PowerBridge comes in two versions — one for Lightning and one for 30-pin — both are available for preorder for $69.99/€54.99 (excluding taxes). iRig PowerBridge will ship Q1, 2015 from music and electronics retailers worldwide, and from the IK online store. 

For more information, please visit www.irigpowerbridge.com

To see the official video of iRig PowerBridge in action, go to: www.irigpowerbridge.com/video 

2015 NAMM Show "Media Preview Day" boasts plenty of surprises

Media Preview Day attracted yours
truly to the 2015 NAMM Show

By Robert Kinsler

ANAHEIM, CA – Every January, more than 100,000 music industry professionals gather at the NAMM Show, the music product industry's premier event.

On the eve of the world's largest gathering of the National Association of Music Merchants, or NAMM, there was plenty of wonderful surprises to showcase at the annual NAMM Show being held in and around the Anaheim Convention Center in Orange County, CA on Jan. 21, 2015.

Here are some highlights I caught throughout the day:

IK Multimedia, the industry's leader in mobile music creation technology, showcased several new products at the event. The iRig UA is an affordable device (it retails for $99) that allows guitar players to use Android phones as a mobile amplifier for both practice and even recording. The iRig UA works on virtually any Android device running Android 4.0 OS or later including models from Sony, Samsung, Motorola, LG and many more. 

The iRig Mic Field is an amazing stereo audio/video microphone that will revolutionize how owners of iPod touch, iPad and iPhone users will record audio with their Apple devices. Ultra-compact and super easy to use, the iRig Mic is perfect for music recording at home or at a concert, shooting video or any out-in-the-field recording. It is fully rotatable, has a headphone jack, and most importantly for those wanting to use it at loud concerts or sporting events, it boasts a precise gain adjustment feature. 

Information: www.ikmultimedia.com.

Variax Standard electric guitar

It's no surprise that the Variax Standard electric guitar combines Line 6 Variax technology and Yamaha craftsmanship. When the Yamaha Corporation purchased Line 6 last year, the creation of the stunning Variax Standard was launched. The state-of-the-art guitar allows users to play the guitar like a traditional instrument while accessing an entire collection of electric, acoustic and exotic guitar sounds/tones via a "tuning knob" and "category knob." Indeed, with the simple use of the "tuning knob," players can select from 10 different tunings. A digital signal processor inside runs custom software Line 6 wrote. Indeed, the instrument can replicate the sound of a six-string, 12-string, banjo and even a sitar. Free software also allows players to customize and design entirely new instruments. The Variax will ship in March 2015 and will retail for approximately $799. 

Speaking of Yamaha, that company introduced the AG03 and the AG06, hybrid mixing consoles and USB audio interfaces ideal for webcasting, podcasting, music production and gaming. The AG Series offers high-resolution (24-bit/192kHz) audio recording and playback, iOS compatibility and battery operation. The mixers will ship in April 2015.

McCarthy Music's aptly-titled Illuminating Piano is a 61-key keyboard. Beyond it's futuristic appearance, it is designed to teach students to play via light-up keys and features four different modes of play aimed at keyboardists at all levels of learning. Information: McCarthyPiano.com.

Andy Powers with his newly-designed
Maple 600 Series Taylor Guitar.

Not all innovation in the music industry is achieved via apps, software and computers. Taylor Guitars premiered its beautiful redesigned Maple 600 Series. Master Guitar Designer Andy Powers explained that he undertook the challenge over the course of 18 months to develop a richer and warmer sound for a Maple guitar. Looking ahead to the future, there are concerns that some of the exotic and tropical woods traditionally used for fine acoustic instruments will become more rare –  and even unavailable. 

Powers and others at Taylor Guitars became committed in seeing if North America's renewable forests might be the source of creating a top-tier instrument. Based on Power's masterful performance on the Maple 600 I saw, the instrument fully delivers on that promise.
"I wanted to create a warm, complex Maple flat-top guitar," Powers told me in an interview. "I wanted to create the type of guitar I wanted to play." 

"I care about the forests, but I don't want to give anything up (as a player)." 

Information: TaylorGuitars.com.