New music: Mike Zito, Tom Rush, Jeff Rogers

Modern day bluesman Mike Zito, legendary singer-songwriter great Tom Rush and Canadian soul singer Jeff Rogers are back with new albums.

Artist: Mike Zito

Title: Life Is Hard (Gulf Coast Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Gary Moore, Walter Trout, Joe Bonamassa

Tell me more: Blues great Mike Zito's aptly-titled Life Is Hard is an outstanding album, bolstered by uniformly incredible musicianship, the impressive production talents of Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, a truly stellar track listing and an emotional backdrop where Zito's wife Laura passed away from cancer prior to the recording of the 12-track project. The uptempo take on Little Milton's "Lonely Man," searing Fred James-penned Chicago blues title track (the latter really showcasing Zito's strong vocals), gospel-meets-blue take on Stevie Wonder's "Have a Talk with God" and his own soulful "Forever My Love" are among the early terrific cuts on the album. A gritty Southern fried take on Tinsley Ellis' "Dying to do Wrong," sumptuous cover of the Guess Who classic "These Eyes," yearning reading of Tab Benoit's "Darkness" bolstered by fiery lead guitar work, Zito's own romance-themed "Without Loving You" and chilling "Death Don't Have No Mercy" (written by Gary Davis) extend the album's palpable magic on its last half. Information: mikezito.com.

Artist: Tom Rush

Title: Gardens Old, Flowers New (Appleseed Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Jimmy Buffett, Donovan

Tell me more: Legendary folk singer Tom Rush is set to return with his wonderful new album Gardens Old, Flowers New on March 1 (the Appleseed Records title marks his first new album since 2018's Voices). Among the earliest heroes of the singer-songwriter movement, Rush is joined on his highly-anticipated return by a group of great players who add keyboards, hurdy-gurdy, percussion, dobro, sax, penny whistle, harmonica and more to the disc's wonderful acoustic soundscape. The Matt Nakoa-produced Gardens Old, Flowers New finds Rush, 83, exploring the highs and lows of life, and frequently using humor to further propel the compelling originals. The range of material amazes at every turn, and Rush's strong vocals and acoustic guitar work perfectly enhance the tracks. Highlights include the Americana anthem "Glory Road," the nuanced instrumental "Lullaby in E," nostalgic "Toy Boat Song," mortality-minded "One More Time Around the Sun," bewitching "Siena's Song" and yearning "The Harbor." The Celtic-tinged "If You Will Love Me" explores the magic of romantic connection with poignancy and poetic grace. Information: TomRush.com and AppleseedMusic.com.

Artist: Jeff Rogers

Title: Dream Job (Diesel Management Productions)

You might like if you enjoy: Bill Withers, Otis Redding, Gavin DeGraw

Tell me more: Canadian singer-songwriter Jeff Rogers brings a wealth of soul to his wonderful new album Dream Job. Recorded at Wishbone Studios in legendary Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Rogers is backed by guitarist Kelvin Holly (Little Richard, Bobby Bland), keyboardist Clayton Ivey (The Staple Sisters, Thelma Houston), drummer Justin Holder (Keb' Mo', Delbert McClinton) and bassist Shonna Tucker (Booker T. Jones, Drive-By Truckers) upping the musical proceedings across the nine-track album. First and foremost, Rogers' incredible lead vocals make a bold and memorable statement across Dream Job, notably on the soulful opener "Her Kind of Trouble," infectious R&B track "Lock & Key," deeply affecting title track, soul-drenched blues ballad "Wish You Wouldn't Go" and heartfelt "Saving This Bottle of Wine." Adding icing on the sonic cake are guests Colin Linden (whose slide guitar is heard on the New Orleans-flavored "Mind of Your Own") and Kellylee Evans (whose vocals shine on the romantic gem "So Worth the Wait"). Information: jeffrogers.ca.

Robert Kinsler

2019 Doheny Blues Festival preview

Brandon "Taz" Niederauer performing with the Otis Taylor Band
at Doheny Blues Festival in 2015. Now 16, the young artist
is one of the most exciting talents on the international stage.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

If you are in Southern California, make plans to attend the Doheny Blues Festival in Dana Point this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19). The diverse line-up of bona fide legends (Taj Mahal, Robert Cray Band, John Mayall Band), pioneering modern-day heroes (Jonny Lang, Vintage Trouble, Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, North Mississippi Allstars, Sue Foley) and emerging greats (Southern Avenue,  Brandon "Taz" Niederauer) promise to make the two day event a great one.

Ben Harper performing at Doheny Blues Fest in May 2013.
The famed artist returns to the event with the Innocent Criminals
this year. Photo: Bob Steshetz

This year's event is bringing back several festival favorites including Ben Harper, who last performed in Dana Point on the 2013 bill with blues harmonica great Charlie Musselwhite. 

This year Harper (a native of Pomona, CA) will be appearing with the Innocent Criminals. Harper is a three-time Grammy winner and has blended blues, rock, folk, reggae, soul and other styles into a unique and fiery musical brand that is his alone. He will come to Dana Point armed with his top-tier talents as both lead singer and guitar virtuoso. You can read my review of Harper's memorable 2013 performance here. Harper will perform on the Dana Point Stage at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Brandon "Taz" Niederauer performing at NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA in January 2019. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Regular readers of my writings will know how blown away I was when I caught then 12-year-old Brandon "Taz" Niederauer perform with the Otis Taylor Band back in 2015, and his burgeoning talent as a now 16-year-old who headlined at the D'Angelico Guitars booth at the NAMM Show in Anaheim in January 2019. Make no mistake; Niederauer is simply amazing. His guitar playing is off the charts, and his considerable talents as a band leader, singer and songwriter astound. Among the awesome songs he performed in Anaheim were the souful "My Revival" and "Dare," as well as the funk-tinged blues rocker "Paralyzed." Don't miss this year's "Artist-At-Large" when he comes to town; Niederauer will perform with several artists across the weekend, and will headline his own set on the Music Preserves Stage at 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Among the other great artists set to perform on Saturday are the Robert Cray Band, Taj Mahal Quartet, Sue Foley and North Mississippi Allstars. 

Jonny Lang performing at the NAMM Show on January  23, 2013.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Sunday also promises to provide a full day of great music in Dana Point. Another much-anticipated artist coming to Doheny Blues Fest this weekend is singer-guitarist Jonny Lang. Armed with his distinctive baritone vocals and passionate guitar work, Lang always puts on a terrific show. I've seen him a numbers of times over the past 20+ years and this always-solid performer will headline the fest on Sunday night.

Vintage Trouble singer Ty Taylor is an
absolute force of nature in concert.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Performing immediately before Lang and closing out the action on the Backporch Stage is one of my all-time favorite live acts. Vintage Trouble comes to the festival on the heels of a terrific new release, Chapter II - EP II, (read my review of the 10-track release here). When the Los Angeles-based quartet performed at the Doheny Blues Fest in 2014 they tore the roof off the place (no easy feat since the festival is held outdoors!). I've seen Vintage Trouble impress at Coachella, Doheny Blues, the House of Blues and even during a flight from Los Angeles to Denver (no kidding! Watch my documentary about the 2013 high-flying event here)

John Mayall performing at the
Coach House in San Juan
Capistrano in January 2018.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Often referred to as the "Godfather of British Blues," it is a real treat that John Mayall will be appearing at the festival on Sunday afternoon, appearing on the Dana Point Stage. Mayall, now 85, has had a long tradition of introducing the world to a string of guitar greats (Eric Clapton, Walter Trout, Peter Green, Mick Taylor, Coco Montoya and more), but Carolyn Wonderland is the first female to ever be featured as lead guitarist in any of Mayall's groups. Mayall is a true treasure and his set is one that shouldn't be missed by any concertgoers this weekend...

Other must-see artists set to perform on Sunday include the aforementioned Southern Avenue, the Marcus King Band, Roy Gaines and European outfit B.B. & the Blues Shacks.

Check out DohenyBluesFestival.com for more details. The event's official poster and schedule is below...






Robert Kinsler

Originality Anchors New Music Titles

Lovers of compelling songwriting, blues music and art rock all have reason to celebrate with the recent release of four outstanding new audio titles.

Artists: Lou Reed & Kris Kristofferson
Title: The Bottom Line Archive: In Their Own Words with Vin Scelsa (BFD/Red)
You might like if you enjoy: Lou Reed, Kris Kristofferson
Tell me more: Lovers of great songs and the artists who create them will want to grab a copy of an essential new two-disc audio collection highlighting music and discussion with legendary songsmiths Lou Reed and Kris Kristofferson. Recorded at the Bottom Line in Greenwich Village in New York on February 2, 1994, the The Bottom Line Archive: In Their Own Words with Vin Scelsa title finds Scelsa discussing the genesis and influences that gave rise to songs with each of the artists, with both Reed and Kristofferson taking turns playing acoustic versions of many of their classics. To the lone accompaniment of their acoustic guitars, Reed performs some of his best-known cuts including "Sweet Jane," and "Romeo Had Juliet" while Kristofferson thrills the intimate audience with beloved works such as "Sunday Morning Coming Down/The Pilgrim," "Help Me Make It Through the Night" and "Me and Bobby McGee." Each artist also performs a favorite from another songwriter, with Kristofferson tackling Leonard Cohen's "Bird on a Wire" and Reed performing Smokey Robinson's "Tracks Of My Tears." Information: BottomLineArchive.com.

Artist: Walter Trout
Title: We're All In This Together (Provogue)
You might like if you enjoy: Joe Bonamassa, Sonny Landreth, Edgar Winter, Charlie Musselwhite, Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Tell me more: A slew of the world's greatest living blues rockers join singer-guitarist Walter Trout on the aptly-titled We're All In This Together, an amazing 14-track disc with a different guest artist paired with Trout on each track. What makes the album so extra special is how wonderful each of the performances capture the style of the guest joining Trout. Kenny Wayne Shepherd teams with Trout on the fiery shuffle "Gonna Hurt Like Hell," both guitar heroes shredding up a storm. Louisiana slide guitar legend Sonny Landreth enhances the beautiful Southern rocker "Ain't Going  Back" with his vocals and guitar work; harmonica great Charlie Musselwhite blasts on the Chicago blues-flavored "The Other Side of the Pillow." And so it goes with artists including Warren Haynes, Eric Gales, Robben Ford, Edgar Winter, Joe Bonamassa and others. But at the end of the day it is Walter Trout who is the star here, having brought together this amazing cast of top-tier players into a cohesive project that shines with its perfect mix of song craft and virtuoso musicianship. Information: MascotLabelGroup.com.

Artist: Jonny Lang
Title: Signs (Concord Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Jonny Lang, Gregg Allman
Tell me more: Jonny Lang is back with another set of impassioned and powerful songs delivered via blues, rock and soul on his latest album Signs. With Lang's tandem skills as lead guitarist and great singer as the anchor, the eclectic range of musical styles works well everywhere. The soulful and lyrically reflective "What You're Made Of," swirling rocker "Bitter End," inspired gospel-tinged "Into the Light" and tender ballad "Bring Me Back Home" are among the many standouts on the disc. The spirit of early Mississippi blues is captured on "Wisdom" with Lang's raspy vocals and blazing guitar layered atop a hypnotic beat; closing out the disc is the genre-defying "Singing Song," a lovely song that celebrates the enduring connection each generation has with song. Information: JonnyLang.com.

Artist: Sparks
Title: Hippopotamus (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Sparks, Thomas Dolby, the Cars
Tell me more: Forty-five years into their singularly adventuresome trajectory, art rockers Sparks (brothers Ron and Russell Mael) continue to break new ground with intoxicating, intelligent and inviting music via their 22nd studio album Hippopotamus. The sweeping baroque "Missionary Position," haunting "Edith Piaf (Said It Better Than Me)," and synth pop number "Bummer" are among the riveting songs where Russell's falsetto vocals and Ron's accomplished keyboard talents lure in the listener. Sparks albums are always marked by original acerbic lyrics that provide more than enough intellectual food for thought and "Hippopotamus" is no exception; "Scandinavian Design," the cinematic "What The Hell Is It This Time?" and "So Tell Me Mrs. Lincoln Aside From That How Was the Play?" challenge with their skewed take on the world. Information: allsparks.com.


Robert Kinsler

Sights and Sounds: Mystery Science Theater 3000, Experience Hendrix Tour, Martha Davis and The Motels, 'Live Lounge' Performance Series

Whew! There is a slew of updates to share as it relates to upcoming releases, tour and industry news...

Mystery Science Theater 3000: Vol. XXXIV

Four DVD Box Set Features Previously Unreleased Episodes

The Saga of the Viking Women and Their Voyage to the Waters of

The Great Sea Serpent, War of The Colossal Beast, The Undead

and The She-Creature

While Mystery Science Theater 3000  isn’t set a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, it is an epic tale of heroes and villains, two robot sidekicks, alien races and snappy one-liners. Joel and Mike, the unlucky witnesses to the cheesiest movies in any galaxy, may not have the force with them, but they have an even more powerful weapon — the riff! In the not too distant future, December 1^st, 2015, join the rebel forces at Shout! Factory in the epic battle against four generally grievous movies from the galactic empire once known as American International Pictures.

Featuring four episodes never before on DVD: The Saga of the Viking Women and Their Voyage to the Waters of The Great Sea Serpent, War Of The Colossal Beast, The Undead and The She-Creature; Mystery Science Theater 3000:Vol. XXXIV also comes loaded with brand-new bonus features, including new introductions by Frank Conniff, the feature length documentary It Was A Colossal Teenage Movie Machine: The A.I.P. Story, theatrical trailers and four exclusive Mini Posters by artist Steve Vance. Fans can pre-order their copies now through ShoutFactory.com 

Mystery Science Theater 3000:Vol. XXXIV brings us The Saga of the Viking Women and Their Voyage to the Waters of The Great Sea Serpent, Roger Corman’s chronicle of Viking women on a journey of adventure, jealousy and redemption; War Of The Colossal Beast, the story of how the disfigured and unbalanced Lt. Col. Glenn Manning goes on a rampage, helmed by MST3K mainstay Bert I. Gordon; The Undead, a Corman film about reincarnation and witchcraft; and  The She-Creature, a touching tale about a mysterious hypnotist putting his beautiful assistant back in touch with her past life as a sea monster.    

Mystery Science Theater 3000:Vol. XXXIV also includes the shorts The Home Economics Story and Mr. B Natural.

Mystery Science Theater 3000:Vol. XXXIV Bonus Features:

·         New introductions by Frank Conniff

·         It Was A Colossal Teenage Movie Machine: The A.I.P. Story  documentary

·         Theatrical Trailers

·         Four exclusive Mini-Posters by artist Steve Vance

For more information on Mystery Science Theater 3000 and on Shout! Factory, visit www.shoutfactory.com            

2016 Experience Hendrix Tour set to roll with Buddy Guy, Billy Cox, Kenny kWayne Shepherd, Zakk Wylde, Dweezil Zappa, Jonny Lang, Eric Johnson and more!

Hailed by critics and fans alike as the ‘Guitar Event Of The Year,’ the multi-artist celebration known as the Experience Hendrix Tour is set to return in 2016.  These special concert performances present legendary artists who join together to pay homage to Jimi Hendrix.   This next edition of the Experience Hendrix Tour will encompass twenty seven performances this coming February and March, stopping in more than two dozen cities along the east coast, midwest and southern states.  Now in its second decade, the tour celebrates the musical genius of Jimi Hendrix by bringing together a diverse array of extraordinary musicians, ranging from blues legend Buddy Guy to Black Label Society and former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde, as well as Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Eric Johnson, Dweezil Zappa and many others.  Billy Cox, bassist for both the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Band of Gypsys, anchors a rhythm section that provides the foundation for exciting renditions of such signature Hendrix favorites as “Purple Haze” and “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”. 

Jonny Lang performing at the Doheny Blues Festival
in Dana Point, CA in May 2008. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Jimi Hendrix was a pioneer in both rock and blues, and expanded the possibilities of what could be achieved with the electric guitar, forever altering the course of music history. Likewise, the Experience Hendrix Tour is developing a rich history of its own.   By 2004, the first Experience Hendrix Tour came to fruition with a three-date string of shows on the west coast, starting in Hendrix’s hometown of Seattle.   By 2008, the Experience Hendrix Tour had become a full-fledged, coast-to-coast expedition that continues to date, without showing any signs of slowing down Audiences are presented the opportunity to see great artists paying homage to Hendrix and collaborating with each other in ways they’d never do in their own live shows. 

“It is such an honor to be asked back for another run,” says blues/gospel/rock guitar prodigy Jonny Lang, who has played every tour since 2008. “The music of Jimi Hendrix speaks to each of us in indelible ways. It’s another chance to celebrate his legacy.”

You can read my coverage of the Experience Hendrix a year ago at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles here.

As in years past, Fender Music Instruments is the primary tour sponsor.   Fender and Experience Hendrix L.L.C. have long enjoyed a successful relationship—an association that traces back to Hendrix transforming the Fender Stratocaster into the dominant instrument of rock and roll music.

Marshall Amplifiers and Dunlop Manufacturing, whose gear is an integral part of the tour’s backline, also sponsor the Experience Hendrix Tour together with Axe Heaven IK Multimedia and Hal Leonard.

Profoundly popular with fans and critics alike, an earlier edition of the Experience Hendrix Tour inspired Doug Walters of the Charleston City Paper to rave, “It was an inspired night of great energy and incredible playing. Nothing but good vibes filled the Performing Arts Center. Jimi’s spirit and music could not have been honored more.” 

Robert Kinsler of the Orange County Register, called the Experience Hendrix Tour “a steller event,” as well as “a special night, and a fitting tribute to a music legend, to be sure.”

Jackie Braje of Creative Loafing Tampa wrote, “All epic performances aside, the one truly admirable thing about this show is that it never once let us forget who the real star performer is.”

Tour Dates:

Feb 24 - Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live

Feb 25 - Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall

Feb 26 - Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theater

Feb 27 - Atlanta, GA – Fox Theater

Feb 28 - Charleston, SC – Gaillard Center

Feb 29 - Nashville, TN – Schermerhorn

Mar 2 - Tulsa, OK – Brady Theater

Mar 3 - Grand Prairie, TX – Verizon Theatre

Mar 4 - San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theater

Mar 5 - Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center

Mar 6 - New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theater

Mar 8 - St. Louis, MO – Fox Theater

Mar 9 - Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater

Mar 10 - Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater

Mar 11 - Detroit, MI – The Fox Theater

Mar 12 - Chicago, IL – Chicago Theater

Mar 13 - Cincinnati, OH – Taft Theater

Mar 15 - Northfield, OH – Hard Rock Casino

Mar 16 - Syracuse, NY – Landmark Theatre

Mar 17 - Wallingford, CT – Oakdale Theater

Mar 18 - Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theater

Mar 19 - Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Casino

Mar 20 - Poughkeepsie, NY – Mid Hudson Civic Center

Mar 22 - Red Bank, NJ – Count Basie Theater

Mar 23 - Worcester, MA – Hanover Theatre

Mar 24 - New Bedford, MA – Zeiterion

Mar 25 - Hampton Beach, NH – Hampton Beach Casino

Vesuvio Entertainment sets new release date for Martha Davis and The Motels concert/documentary film: November 6, 2015 FILM COMMEMORATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ICONIC WHISKEY A GO-GO ON SUNSET STRIP INTRODUCTION BY ROSANNA ARQUETTE AND LINDA PERRY

“More intriguing now than she was in 1980.” – Arts Fuse “Arguably the most charismatic female performer in rock.” – Robert Hilburn, Los Angeles Times “Martha Davis and the Motels gave their audience a Five-Star experience.” – Herald Sun

Los Angeles, CA, October 26--Following a banner year in which Martha Davis and The Motels have played their most shows since 1985, Vesuvio Entertainment is releasing--at last-- THE MOTELS LIVE AT THE WHISKY A GO-GO-50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL, a lush and tuneful concert film of this iconic artist's landmark performance at the historic Whisky A Go-Go's 50th Anniversary Celebration on DVD and Blu-ray and digitally November 6. While The Bangles, Robbie Krieger and many others had shows marking this Sunset Strip institution’s 50th birthday, only Martha Davis and the Motels captured their show for posterity, marking their first ever hi def, 5.1 audio state of the art concert film. Double Emmy® winning cinematographer Roy H. Wagner (NBC's Elementary; Wes Craven's NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 3) photographed the concert film, with choreographer/director Denise Faye (BURLESQUE) in her directorial debut. Ms. Faye is currently directing Cher's global "Dressed to Kill" Tour. Golden Globe® nomineeRosanna Arquette and Grammy® nominee Linda Perry both appear in the film introducing Martha and the band. THE MOTELS LIVE AT THE WHISKY A GO-GO-50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL will now be released by Vesuvio Entertainment on November 6, on DVD and Blu-ray and digitally to more than 200 digital stores and services, from iTunes to Amazon, Spotify to Google Play, Beats to Pandora, Rdio to Deezer, Beatport to Tidal and Shazam to Millward Brown. The Blu-Ray and DVD are distributed by AMPED, the nation's largest supplier of video and audio content. This legendary live concert performance features seventeen of The Motels’ greatest hits, coupled with memorable and unique DVD extras such as interviews, outtakes and other goodies. There's also an audio-only version of the concert for music fans. The concert film had its world premiere at the renowned Regent Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles September 21. Bruce Ravid, the original A&R exec at Capitol who signed Martha and the Motels, said, “Martha, the band, the camerawork, and the audio quality are all ace. The Motels magic remains and this absolutely shows why we were so stoked to sign them and to see their success.” Industry executive Russ Reganadds, "I was never involved professionally with The Motels, but always admired Martha Davis' amazing voice and equally great songwriting skills, and this film is really a testament to great music that solidifies The Motels' status as one of the bands that not only launched New Wave, but whose music stands the test of time." From winning an early American Music Award for Best Performance in “Only the Lonely,” to writing Top 10 hits like “Suddenly Last Summer,” Davis is one of the most prolific singer/songwriters to come out of the New Wave movement. In addition to returning to Australia, where “Total Control” became their biggest hit and helped pave the way for their American success, The Motels also did a US Summer 2015 tour with old friends “The Go–Go’s,” as well as doing a headline tour of the East Coast, to renewed critical acclaim.She’s currently touring and recording new material and occasionally performs jazz standards along with a few dazzling rearrangements of Motels classics, teaming up with original Motels’ sax and keys player Marty Jourard, and legendary keyboard player Greg Hawkes from The Cars. That trio is known asDavis, Hawkes & Jourard, LLP --is a bit of a tongue in cheek reference to a law firm, but instead serves up music and not legal advice. THE MOTELS LIVE AT THE WHISKY A GO-GO-50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL Genre: Feature Concert Film; unrated Distributor: Vesuvio Entertainment Format: NTSC DVD and Blu Ray; Year: 2015 Total Running Time: 87 minutes Audio: Dolby 5.1 surround HD DVD; MSRP $24.98 Item # VESU1001; UPC 00854021006004 BLU RAY DVD $29.98 Item # VESU1002; UPC 00854021006011 The Motels Live at The Whisky A Go Go - Digital Audio-Only Edition Item Number: VESU1004 UPC Number: 854021006035 Price: TBD Social Media Handles: https://www.facebook.com/MarthaDavisMotels Twitter/Instagram: @TheMotels YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MarthaDavisTheMotels Vesuvio Entertainment: Twitter @vesuvioent

VEVO AND THE BBC COLLABORATE ON DISTRIBUTION FOR LIVE LOUNGE PERFORMANCE SERIES

Vevo to become new International home for high-profile BBC Radio 1 original series   

NEW YORK October 27, 2015– Vevo and BBC Worldwide today announced a collaboration on the distribution for BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge performance series.  The relationship will see BBC Radio 1 provide an extensive back catalog of over 200 Live Lounge performances on Vevo as well as provide an exclusive home for the majority of future Live Lounge performances internationally.  With this agreement BBC Radio 1 gains access to the world’s largest premium music video platform with over 12 billion monthly views and extensive exposure within the coveted millennial viewing audience.

“Vevo is one of my favourite apps, so to get Radio 1’s world-famous Live Lounge to its massive audience of new music fans across the globe is utterly fantastic.” said Ben Cooper, Controller, Radio 1 and 1Xtra, BBC. 

Radio 1’s Live Lounge features a combination of the music industry’s highest profile established and emerging artists performing a small selection of stripped-back songs both within and outside of their musical genre.  Live Lounge will be available on Vevo as of November 12^th.

“We’re excited to collaborate with BBC Worldwide and BBC Radio 1 to bring such an iconic and unique program as Live Lounge to Vevo’s growing audience,” said Alex Kisch, Executive Vice President, Business Development and Affairs, Vevo.  “We see this as a tremendous first step in our collaboration as we look to expose Live Lounge’s phenomenal music catalog and forthcoming performances to new audiences around the world.”

“I’m delighted that we have been able to broker this deal on behalf of the BBC which benefits the BBC, record labels and artists alike” said Dominic Walker, Director of Radio and Music BBC Worldwide.

About BBC Worldwide

BBC Worldwide is the main commercial arm and a wholly owned subsidiary of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).  Its vision is to build the BBC’s brands, audiences, commercial returns and reputation across the world.  This is achieved through investing in, commercialising and showcasing content from the BBC around the world, in a way that is consistent with BBC standards and values.  The business also champions British creativity globally.

In 2014/15, BBC Worldwide generated headline profits of £138.6m and headline sales of £1,001.8m and returned a record £226.5m to the BBC. For more detailed performance information please see our Annual Review website:

http://www.bbcworldwide.com/annualreview

bbcworldwide.com
twitter.com/bbcwpress

About Vevo

Vevo is the world’s leading all-premium music video and entertainment platform with over 12 billion monthly views globally. Vevo brings a library of 150,000 HD music videos, exclusive original programming and live concert performances to everyone on the planet who loves music both on-demand through Vevo.com, the mobile web, apps for mobile/tablets and connected TVs, and on Vevo TV, an always-on broadcast-style linear music channel built by expert human programmers. Additionally, Vevo syndicates its catalogue to dozens of sites across the web giving music fans the option to view their favorite programming anywhere, anytime. It is Vevo’s massive scale and reach that has attracted more than 900 brand marketers around the globe since its launch in 2009.

All-star guitarists pay homage to Jimi Hendrix

My review was originally published in the Monday, Oct. 13, 2014 print edition of The Orange County Register.

From left, guitarist Buddy Guy, bassist Billy Cox, drummer Chris Layton and singer-guitarist Mato Nanji during a performance of "Hey Joe" at the Experience Hendrix Tour. Photo: Robert Kinsler

All-star guitarists pay homage to Jimi Hendrix

Players such as Buddy Guy, Zack Wylde and Jonny Lang make the Experience Hendrix tribute a satisfying evening.

BY ROBERT KINSLER / CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Published: Oct. 11, 2014 Updated: 8:02 p.m.

Although Jimi Hendrix was only 27 when he died in September 1970, the Seattle native left behind a legacy highlighted by his groundbreaking guitar playing and exceptional songwriting.

The enduring power of the late guitar hero was tangible throughout the Experience Hendrix Tour stop staged at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on Friday night (Oct. 10, 2014). In a fast-moving 3 1/2-hour show that featured many of the world's greatest living electric blues guitarists, there were countless moments to celebrate at the 9th edition of the traveling tour.

The list of greats included headliner Buddy Guy, Billy Cox (the bassist who played with Hendrix in Band of Gypsys and the Jimi Hendrix Experience), Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Zakk Wylde, Eric Johnson, Doyle Bramhall II, Jonny Lang, Rich Robinson (of the Black Crowes), Ana Popovic and Mato Nanji (of Indigenous fame). Among the players holding together the rhythm section were drummer Chris Layton and bassist Tony Franklin.

Players would come and go, with the seemingly endless number of combinations resulting in thrilling renditions of Hendrix classics. A rear project screen projected artful images of the ever-youthful Hendrix as a fitting backdrop throughout the concert.

Early standouts included the show opening “Stone Free” (featuring Cox on bass and lead vocals, and guitarists Dani Robinson and Nanji sharing solo duties), “Message to Love” (featuring Rich Robinson's shining fret work) and “Ezy Rider” (boasting thrilling guitar work from Johnson). Not much later, Wylde increased the energy level at the venue with a ferocious mini-set including an epic take on “Little Wing” and metal-infused rundown of “Purple Haze.”

After a brief intermission, Popovic impressed with her slide guitar work on the fiery “Can You See Me.” Bramhill's version of “Angel” was an elegant offering, with his dynamic guitar solo-centered build enthralling the crowd. Lang kicked off his mini-set with a rousing “All Along the Watchtower” on which he played acoustic guitar while Nanji and Wylde handled electric duties. The highlight of his set was a take on “The Wind Cries Mary” with Lang singing powerfully while Johnson played a superb solo.

Shepherd and singer Noah Hunt took a heavy blues approach to their time, including during the crowd-pleasing “Come On (Let the Good Times Roll)” and “Voodoo Chile.”

The night ended with 78-year-old Guy showcased. Still a master showman and guitar player, he delighted the crowd as he was joined by Cox for his mini-set and unleashed his fast-fingered style of Chicago blues.

The stellar event came to an end with a forceful version of “Hey Joe,” with Nanji singing lead vocals and letting Guy shine on lead guitar. A special night, and a fitting tribute to a music legend, to be sure.

NAMM 2014: From Robby Krieger and Jonny Lang to a new Springsteen

A shorter version of my story was originally posted on The Orange County Register site on Monday morning, Jan. 27, 2014. More coverage of NAMM 2014 is on the way soon!

The blues-rocker Jonny Lang, the 13-year-old upstart Alana Springsteen (no relation to the Boss), the Doors’ Robby Krieger and others provided standout performances at the annual Anaheim gathering.

Jonny Lang in action on the GoPro Stage Jan. 23. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A couple of decades ago, on-site performances at the National Association of Music Merchants show, or NAMM, were definitely not a key part of the event held every January at the Anaheim Convention Center.

But once again this year performances were front-and-center throughout the show, held Jan 23-26, with the far-flung likes of bluesmen old (Otis Taylor) and younger (Jonny Lang), Americana trio the Kruger Brothers and classic rockers Blue Oyster Cult and Robby Krieger of the Doors among the artists who could be spied at the event.

In an interview before he took the stage to headline the GoPro Stage Saturday night, Krieger discussed the importance of NAMM in helping keep a wide variety of music-making alive, especially via each developing generation. As early as the Doors’ landmark 1967 debut, the guitar great, now 68, was already incorporating flamenco and jazz with blues and rock.

“It’s all important to me,” he says. “I fear today kids don’t check out all that stuff; they just listen to Eddie Van Halen and try to copy that. Back in the day, we went as far back as we could.”

In addition to rock’s earliest six-stringers, Krieger was influenced by the likes of masters like Wes Montgomery, Albert King and Larry Carlton, as well as jazz innovator Miles Davis. Many of those sources found their way into enduring staples such as “Light My Fire,” “Love Me Two Times,” “Love Her Madly” and “Touch Me.” “Jim wanted it to be a mystery,” he explained why the legendary band’s songs were credited to all four Doors. “I wrote most of the music and Jim wrote most of the words.”

Robby Krieger headlined on the GoPro Stage.

Krieger's subsequent performance was outstanding, with the legendary and fast-fingered guitarist displaying his equal love of jazz and rock during the set. Doors fans cheered with the performance of the gem "You're Lost Little Girl," (from the band's sophomore effort Strange Days) and then a few songs later, the radio staple "Love Me Two Times" where Krieger's vocals were as potent when I first heard him sing the song in a memorable performance at Cal State Fullerton.

While Krieger's 90-minute set was among NAMM’s brightest highlights, plenty of other worthwhile acts performed of the course of NAMM 2014. Right off the bat, Day 1 provided opportunities to see Lang and BÖC, as well as several under-the-radar talents.

Lang brought his powerful fusion of rock, soul and gospel to the official opening night concert held on the outdoor GoPro stage, positioned in front of the convention center. His 90-minute turn was another ideal setting to take in the 32-year-old’s ongoing celebration of blues-rock.

Opening with “(Blew Up) The House,” from his latest album Fight for My Soul, the guitarist and his band fired up the chilly evening with his distinctive mix of rousing vocals (notably on “Turn Around” and “Red Light”) and blazing fretwork that just keeps getting better as he matures, as evidenced by “A Quitter Never Wins.” He closed with the jam-ready “We Are the Same” before offering a fitting Muddy Waters cover, “Forty Days and Forty Nights,” as an encore.

Blue Öyster Cult isn’t known as an acoustic band, so the curiosity factor was palpable when the group took the stage inside Peavey’s booth armed only with such guitars. With the space (a large room on the convention center’s second level) maxed out at 200 capacity, many fans simply couldn’t get into the showcase if they hadn’t arrived early for the 2 p.m. set.

BÖC didn't disappoint: lead singer-guitarist Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser led the outfit through fiery stripped-down versions of some of the band’s most beloved material. Opening with the 1981 hit “Burnin’ for You,” it was clear Roeser’s talents translate just fine to the unplugged setting, while harmonies provided by Eric Bloom and Richie Castellano brought the ambitious songs, long a mix of progressive and hard rock, to sparkling life.

They had one other surprise in store for the lucky gathering: a cameo from Alex Skolnick, lead guitarist of pioneering thrash metal band Testament. With four talented axe-wielders on stage, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” was given the ultimate NAMM treatment in an extended version that featured Skolnick and Roeser trading licks and the crowd singing along to the choruses.

Shawn Jones frequently performs in Orange County, but his appearance in Anaheim at the GHS Strings booth was something special. He performed instrumental versions of four original songs, showcasing chops frequently on display as lead guitarist for singer Deana Carter, including on her just-released album Southern Way of Life. At NAMM, Jones illustrated his love of the blues with a potent take on “Bottom of the Bottle” and a nuanced, graceful version of the Celtic-styled “Missing the Mourns,” bolstered by some beautiful harmonics.

Alana Springsteen. Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

There was nothing short of genuine surprise and awe, however, when 13-year-old Alana Springsteen began to perform her song “Waste of Time” in the lobby of the Anaheim Marriott. She had been invited to participate in a “Song Round” set with well-known area artists Tim Moyer and Kerry Getz.

After Springsteen (no relation to the Boss) played her first song, it was clear her shining soprano, effortless acoustic guitar playing and warm personality are an enchanting package. She was instructed to play another song – and it was equally powerful, casting an obvious spell on the large crowd seated around the stage. Then she was told by the veterans sharing the stage that she should go ahead and finish out the session with her tunes.

Those next songs suggest not only that Springsteen’s talent is for real but that her depth clearly outdistances her youth. The Norfolk, Va., native closed with an original ballad, “What I Wouldn’t Give,” featuring her textured fretwork and a strong message of thanks to the military. She earned a standing ovation, something I can’t recall ever seeing happen in these intimate afternoon sessions.

Friday brought more action, including an afternoon visit from guitar virtuoso Gary Hoey and former Runaways riff-crafter Lita Ford, who performed at the Monster Cables booth for a crowd that stretched out far in every direction. Although her vocals were mostly buried, the duo’s guitar work pleased fans as they played two tracks off Ford’s Hoey-produced album Living Like a Runaway.

Hoey noted that when he learned Ford was looking for a producer, he suggested they record the album at his studio in New Hampshire. “We had an instant working chemistry,” he recalled. “Lita Ford is a pioneer as far as women in rock go; she’s just a dynamo. She stays true to who she is. (The new album) is still building some momentum and a lot of great reviews.”

Hoey also praised NAMM’s diverse atmosphere, which draws musicians and music manufacturers from every part of the globe to Anaheim. “I love it because it’s like a secret club for musicians and bands to get together and talk about music.”

The rest of Friday played out with additional strong turns from Jeff Campbell (whose sound evokes Toad the Wet Sprocket), North Carolina’s Kruger Brothers and Colorado bluesman Otis Taylor. The latter’s NAMM sets are the stuff of legend; his performance inside the Anaheim Marriott was likely one of the most robust of the weekend. His version of the murderous “Hey Joe” and his own “Rain So Hard” had fans transfixed by a hypnotic blues-rock laced with Native American and African rhythms, Anne Harris’ ferocious fiddle and heavy grooves. There is a power in Taylor's performances that bridges the power of strong blues, Hendrix rock and even alternative that is intoxicating in ways that are magic and the eclectic crowd gathered in front of the stage reflected the power of his set.

And at least one day at NAMM, it’s smart to merely walk the floor and stumble upon musicians checking out the latest gear. On Saturday, I was blown away first by Andy Rau playing some of his original compositions on a Deering banjo, and later by Latin Grammy winner Gabby Moreno’s brief but exciting appearance on the main stage, blurring the lines between Spanish and blues-rock material.