'Chicago & Friends In Concert' Nationwide & Canadian Film release on April 18 and April 21, 2024

Fans of Chicago will want to get this on their calendar...Robert Kinsler

 

FANTRACKS DIGITAL, ICONIC EVENTS RELEASING AND MERCURY STUDIOS PROUDLY CELEBRATE THE THEATRICAL DEBUT OF CHICAGO & FRIENDS IN CONCERT -NATIONWIDE & CANADIAN FILM RELEASE APRIL 18 AND APRIL 21- FIND THEATRE LOCATIONS & TIMES HERE WATCH THE TRAILER Chicago & Friends In Concert - Film Official Trailer

Hailed as one of the "most important bands in music since the dawn of the rock and roll era.” New York (March 20, 2024) – The theatrical release of Chicago & Friends in Concert will premiere on April 18 and April 21, in select theatres via Iconic Events Releasing, Mercury Studios and FanTracks. “This concert film is a unique approach to any of our previous live performances,” said Chicago founding member Lee Loughnane. “We very rarely play with guest artists, much less seven of them. It was very interesting to work with each guest and experience their interpretations of our music.” Chicago, the legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band with more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, bring their iconic sound to moviegoers across North America in this 2½ hour cinematic event. Recorded this past November at Ovation Hall at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, NJ in front of a live audience of 10,000 fans over two nights, the band was joined by special guests Robin Thicke, Chris Daughtry, Steve Vai, VoicePlay, Judith Hill, Robert Randolph and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. Each performance is visualized in vibrant video and animation. This once-in-a-lifetime event showcases Chicago’s greatest hits and celebrates their 55th Anniversary of their groundbreaking Double-Platinum debut album, CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY. The film also captures the “unplugged” a capella arrangements and re-imagined Chicago's hits in an emotionally moving centerpiece. Chicago & Friends In Concert’s Executive Producer Barry Summers worked directly with co-producer, Chicago’s Lee Loughnane, and each special guest on song selections. Loughnane also acted as music director and managed the post-production audio mix. Barry Summers, Award Winning Producer & Creator of the Decades Rock LIve series of which this film is the latest, exclaims “We are very excited to be presenting "Chicago & Friends in Concert" 4K UHD Dolby 5.1 at cinemas in North America. Ty Roberts, CEO, FanTracks added “We are thrilled to showcase the Decades Rock Live series in theatres which brings multiple generations together to celebrate iconic music.” The Decades Rock Live Chicago & Friends production was filmed on a custom-built LED stage set with nine 4K cameras. This film premiere contains Chicago’s greatest hits and classics with each visualized in all original full length animations shown against an amazing custom LED backdrop. Visit HTTPS://CHICAGOANDFRIENDSINTHEATRES.COM for theaters and showtimes near you. ABOUT CHICAGO The legendary rock and roll band with horns, Chicago, came in as the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine's Top 125 Artists of All Time. Chicago recently received The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the GRAMMYS and was previously inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame in 2014. Band members Robert Lamm and James Pankow have been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2017. Further to that, the band has 21 Top 10 singles, five consecutive Number One albums, 11 #1 singles and five Gold singles, with a total of 48 Gold and Platinum awards. The original three band members are Robert Lamm on keyboards and vocals, Lee Loughnane on trumpet and vocals and James Pankow on trombone. The band line-up also includes Ray Herrmann on woodwinds, Walfredo Reyes Jr. on drums, Neil Donell on vocals, Ramon "Ray" Yslas on percussion, Tony Obrohta on guitar, Loren Gold on keyboards and vocals, and Eric Baines on bass and vocals. ABOUT FANTRACKS FanTracks Digital LLC is a live streaming company with fan engagement at its core, connecting fans, bands and venues. The company provides subscription and pay-per-view streaming live music events, studio grade video production, short form original contenand digital merchandise. FanTracks operates its own B2B and B2C platforms focused around music genres for artists and brands. The platform provides fans high-quality, carefully curated, and professionally produced live shows. In August 2022 FanTracks acquired jazzed, the immersive live-streaming app uniquely curated from the best in jazz, soul and blues to jazz-inspired superstars, thereby adding experienced management in music, entertainment and technology to its leadership team, who are trailblazers in creating new experiences with artists. Fantracks Live STORE – Fantracks Shop for merchandise for Chicago & Friends. About Iconic Events Releasing: Iconic Events Releasing is reinventing event cinema - focusing on bringing fans closer to the content that they love. Offering a variety of one-of-a-kind live and captured entertainment events in movie theaters nationwide, Iconic Events Releasing creates unique experiences by taking audiences behind the scenes and offering intriguing extras, audience Q&As, backstage footage, and interviews with cast and crew creating the ultimate VIP experience. Theatrical releases range from live sports (UFC Live) to classic anime (AX Cinema Nights) to music (David Bryne, David Bowie, Chicago & Friends in Concert), documentaries (The Lost Weekend), horror films (Terrifier Franchise), and faith-focused features (God of Heaven and Earth). The Iconic Events Releasing’s team is comprised of industry experts with over 80+ years of content acquisition, distribution and marketing, publicity, and sponsorship experience. To learn more visit https://iconicreleasing.com/about-us/ About Mercury Studios: Mercury Studios is a full-service production studio originating, producing, selling, distributing, and investing in scripted, unscripted, and live content. Editorially independent Mercury Studios is powered by Universal Music Group and represents the world’s leading catalogue of music-related content. Current and recent projects include If These Walls Could Sing, the untold story of the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, directed by celebrated British photographer and filmmaker Mary McCartney for Disney+; This Town, a six-part series for the BBC from writer, creator and executive producer Steven Knight; Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop, a feature documentary from Oscar-winning director/producer Joseph Patel (Summer of Soul), adapted from Vikki Tobak’s best-selling book; “My Life as a Rolling Stone,” a four-part docuseries of intimate portraits of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts; Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl, a career documentary about the superstar that is available on Netflix; and Mars, a short film based on an original universe and characters created by Yungblud, starring Yasmin Finney, that premiered at the London Film Festival. Mercury Studios’ Miles Davis: Birth of The Cool was recently honored with two Emmys for Outstanding Arts and Culture Documentary and Outstanding Sound. ZZ Top: That Little Ol' Band from Texas also received a 2021 Grammy Award nomination for Best Music Film. The feature documentaries are part of the Mercury Studios library, consisting of over 5,000 hours of programming. Visit Mercurystudios.co for more information.

William Shatner announces new spoken word album 'Bill' set for release on Sept. 24, 2021

I am a big fan of William Shatner and this forthcoming title sounds as it is very personal (Read my review of Shatner's riveting live performance at the Coach House in October 2013 HERE). Listen to the two compelling advance tracks from "Bill" released today and learn more about the album via the media release below...Robert Kinsler 

 
RELEASES TWO SINGLES “CLOUDS OF GUILT” FEAT. JOE JONAS 
AND “SO FAR FROM THE MOON” FEAT. BRAD PAISLEY TODAY

PRE-ORDER BILL HERE

LISTEN TO “CLOUDS OF GUILT” FEAT. JOE JONAS HERE
LISTEN TO “SO FAR FROM THE MOON” FEAT. BRAD PAISLEY HERE

NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 27^TH – Today, award-winning actor, director, producer, writer, and chart-topping recording artist William Shatner announces his forthcoming new album, BILL, set for release on September 24^th via Joe Jonas’ new label Let’s Get It! Records/Republic Records. To celebrate the announcement, William Shatner teams up with Joe Jonas and Brad Paisley to release the first two singles from the album, “Clouds of Guilt” feat. Joe Jonas and “So Far From the Moon” feat. Brad Paisley, out now.
 

LISTEN TO “CLOUDS OF GUILT” FEAT. JOE JONAS HERE
LISTEN TO “SO FAR FROM THE MOON” FEAT. BRAD PAISLEY HERE

 

William Shatner performing at The Coach House
on Oct. 25, 2013. Photo: Kelly A. Swift

Through spoken word and genre-bending music, the songs on BILL chronicle significant autobiographical moments in William Shatner’s life and the ideas, challenges, and questions he’s confronted along the way. The tracks were co-written and produced by Grammy Award-winner Dan Miller [They Might Be Giants], while the lyrics were a collaboration between Shatner and his friend and writer Robert Sharenow. In addition to Joe Jonas and Brad Paisley, BILL features guitarist Joe Walsh [James Gang, Eagles, Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band], pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph [Robert Randolph and the Family Band], musician John Lurie, saxophonist Dave Koz, and more. See the full tracklist below.
 
On creating the album remotely during the pandemic, William Shatner says, “Through a series of phone calls, texts, and emails, music and words flew back and forth across the country. The [Covid-19] crisis created an urgency and quickly unleashed a candor between us that allowed us to peel back layers that sat on the surface of a subject to reveal the depth of truth buried underneath. What better time to contemplate life’s biggest questions than during a global pandemic? Some songs touched on painful or beautiful moments, while others turned into elliptical philosophical explorations about the very nature of existence and death.”
 
He continues, “BILL blends long-form autobiographical poetry and prose, music, spoken word performance art, and philosophical exploration. Toggling between passion and despair, reflection and yearning, this collection explores my life journey during a pivotal and chilling moment of history.”
 
On “Clouds of Guilt,” William Shatner explores the strangely powerful role guilt has played throughout his life, with equal measures of wit, irony, and self-awareness.
 
Joe Jonas states, “I’ve been a fan of Bill’s for as long as I can remember. He’s iconic. To not only be featured on one of his songs that mean so much to him but to also get to be a label partner on the entire project, it’s an honor.”
 
While on “So Far From the Moon,” William Shatner revisits a pivotal moment in his life after the cancelation of Star Trek and his divorce, when he was doing dinner theater and living out of the back of his pickup truck. One the night of July 20th, 1969, as he lay out in a sleeping bag in the back of the truck, staring at the sky, he listened to the live broadcast of the moon landing. Despite being at a low point in his career, Shatner found inspiration and a connection to the astronauts in the sky above, who he had met years before while they were training for their mission.
 
Brad Paisley comments, “It’s so interesting to hear what effect the moon landing had on Bill, because every generation of astronauts since those days credit him with inspiration. I’m so proud to be on this track.”
 
The other songs on BILL dive into various stories and topics, including the nature of relationships, the struggle with fame and identity, the meaning of life, and more. Like epic song cycles of the past from Homer to Kendrick Lamar, William Shatner’s journey is both extremely personal and universal, extraordinary and relatable. His unique insights and delivery, beloved by millions worldwide, give voice to the joys and struggles we all face.
 
Stay tuned for more music to come from William Shatner soon!
 
BILL TRACKLIST:

1. “I Ride”
2. “Made In The Shade” feat. Joe Walsh
3. “Clouds of Guilt” feat. Joe Jonas
4. “So Far From the Moon” feat. Brad Paisley
5. “Love, Death, and Horses”
6. “Just Forgive” feat. Robert Randolph
7. “Loneliness” feat. John Lurie
8. “Thunder and Fire” feat. Joan as Police Woman
9. “The Bridge” feat. Daniel Miller
10. “Black Horse”
11. “Masks” feat. Dave Koz
12. “Monday Night in London”
13. “Toughie” feat. Robert Randolph
14. “What Do We Know”

 

 
ABOUT WILLIAM SHATNER:
William Shatner has cultivated a career spanning over 60 years as an award-winning actor, director, producer, writer, recording artist, and horseman. He is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures and a major philanthropist. In 1966, Shatner originated the role of “Captain James T. Kirk” in the television series Star Trek. The series spawned a feature film franchise where Shatner returned as Captain Kirk in seven of the Star Trek movies, one of which he directed. Shatner played the title role in the hit television series T.J. Hooker before hosting television’s first reality-based series Rescue 911. He won Emmys and his first Golden Globe for his portrayal of eccentric lawyer “Denny Crane” on both The Practice and Boston Legal. He received four more Emmy nominations as well as other Golden Globe and SAG Award nods. Mr. Shatner currently is the host and executive producer of The UnXplained on The History Channel. His love of music inspired him to record the critically acclaimed album Has Been. The Milwaukee Ballet performed “Common People,” a dance presentation set to several numbers from the record; the event and its preparations are featured in the documentary Gonzo Ballet, which played to sold out houses at film festivals worldwide. In October 2020, Shatner released an album titled The Blues, which quickly reached number one on Billboard’s Top Blues Albums chart. Shatner previously released the country music album, What About Me, in August 2018 with Jeff Cook and Heartland Records. Quickly following that, Shatner experienced much success with Shatner Clause: The Christmas Album, a holiday album released in October 2018 which peaked in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 Chart. Off the screen and broadcast waves, Shatner has authored nearly 30 best-sellers in both the fiction and non-fiction genres. His autobiography, Up Till Now, was a New York Times best-seller and was followed by Shatner Rules, which was released in October 2011. William Shatner’s book, Leonard: My Fifty-Year Friendship with a Remarkable Man, was released in February 2016 appearing on the New York Times best-seller list. William Shatner’s newest book, Live Long And...What I Might Have Learned Along the Way, was released in September 2018. In April 2011, Shatner launched his hugely popular one-man show Shatner’s World on Broadway. He toured in Australia and New Zealand, followed by tours in Canada and over 50 cities in the United States. Shatner has been successful in another area—horse breeding. His passions for horses and philanthropy were united when he started the Hollywood Charity Horse Show, which benefits Los Angeles-based children’s charities. Shatner continues to act, write, produce, direct, and write and record music, while still making time to work with charities and further his passion in equestrian sports. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.

WILLIAM SHATNER: INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | WEBSITE

On the latest episode of MUSIC WORTH BUYING co-hosts Robert Kinsler and TJR discuss Robert Randolph and the Family Band's Got Soul and the new Old 97's album Graveyard Whistling:

New releases highlight stellar music makers

Strong musicianship, stellar songwriting and outstanding performances highlight four new releases out now.

Artist: Rhiannon Giddens
Title: Freedom Highway (Nonesuch Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Carolina Chocolate Drops, the Staple Singers, Otis Taylor's "Fantasizing About Being Black"
Tell me more: An album that is as haunting as it is brilliant, singer-songwriter/banjo virtuoso Rhiannon Giddens' Freedom Highway looks at the African-American experience free of cliche. Giddens uses her emotive soprano to make the painful past come alive from the earliest moments on her album where she sings of a slave threatened with losing her infant child at any time "at the Purchaser's Option." On "Julie," Giddens shares an original tale that serves as a rich dialogue between a slave and her owner. As the Union Army advances on the plantation, the slave owner exclaims that she has been a kind master and hopes to have her slave safeguard gold from the advancing Northern troops; the bittersweet finale reveals the slave's children have been sold by the uncaring white Southerner. "Mistress, O Mistress, I wish you well / But in leaving here, I'm leaving hell." Giddens also focuses on modern-day issues of race in the gospel-meets-soul "Better Get It Right the First Time," where her amazing vocals blend masterfully with rapper Justin Harrington's spoken word. Information: RhiannonGiddens.com.

Artist: Alison Krauss
Title: Windy City (Capitol Records / Cracker Barrel)
You might like if you enjoy: Alison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent, Dolly Parton
Tell me more: Cracker Barrel provided me with the company's exclusive version of Alison Krauss' latest album Windy City to review. That specific version includes the 10 tracks that appear on the standard release, as well as a ravishing duet featuring Krauss and country singer Jamey Johnson ("Make the World Go Away"). Windy City is Krauss' first album apart from her long-time backing ensemble Union Station in a decade (namely 2007's multi-Grammy winner Raising Sand where she collaborated with Robert Plant). One of the most acclaimed artists recording music today, Krauss has won 27 Grammy Awards (the most of any female artist ever) and has played a seminal role in renewing interest in American bluegrass over the past three decades. Windy City is a tribute to the past, with Krauss using her beautiful soprano to revisit classic country and bluegrass material originally recorded before 1970. Standouts adorn every corner of the release; some of this writer's favorites include the gorgeous "Losing You," uptempo "It's Goodbye and So Long to You," jazzy "I Never Cared For You" and an artfully-arranged take on the Glen Campbell hit "Gentle On My Mind." Information: CrackerBarrel.com.

Artist: Robert Randolph & the Family Band
Title: Got Soul (Sony Masterworks)
You might like if you enjoy: Sonny Landreth, Robert Randolph
Tell me more: Pedal-steel guitar hero Robert Randolph not only continues to extend the role of his "sacred steel" instrument on the aptly-titled Got Soul, but the New Jersey native has fully hit his stride as a great songwriter crafting works that support his explosive style across the 12-track release. He is a generous performer, with guest singer Anthony Hamilton soaring on "She Got Soul" and country hit maker Darius Rucker bringing some feel good vibes to the buoyant "Love Do What It Do." Later, Randolph and company delve into his love of funk ("Shake It," "Lovesick"), blues rock ("I Want It"), gospel ("Find a Way"), R&B ("Gonna Be All Right") and '60s Southern soul ("I Thank You" featuring singer-Hammond B3 organ player Cory Henry) with equal poise and firepower. Information: RobertRandolph.net.

Artist: Doug Schmude
Title: Ghosts of the Main Drag (Lost Hubcap Records)
You might like if you enjoy: John Mellencamp's '80s albums, the Fallen Stars, the Old 97's
Tell me more: On his new independent release Ghosts of the Main Drag, singer-songwriter Doug Schmude offers up a winning hybrid of Americana and indie countrified rock. With a mix of witty straight-forward lyrics and catchy songwriting instincts and solid contributions from a number of top players, highlights on the 10-song disc include the radio-ready "Small Town Eulogy" (featuring some stellar fiddle work by Kyle Nix) and "Why's it Take a Funeral?," the heartfelt love song "One Thing Left to Say" and the real world tale of hard work and family ties that comes alive via "Wooden Nickels." Information: dougschmude.net.



Robert Kinsler

'Lynyrd Skynyrd - One More For The Fans' coming July 24 via deluxe CD/DVD set

Seldom do you see this many greats gather to honor a single artist, but Lynyrd Skynyrd is definitely deserving of the celebration...

LYNYRD SKYNYRD – ONE MORE FOR THE FANS

available July 24, 2015

on Loud & Proud Records in partnership with Blackbird Presents

Two CD/DVD set features performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd and a star-studded line up of top-tier talent 

CONCERT EVENT TO AIR ON AXS TV SUNDAY, JULY 19 AT 8 p.m. EST / 5 p.m. PST

NEW YORK, NY (May 19, 2015) – On one special night last November, an extraordinary collection of artists came together at the historic Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA to perform and celebrate the songs of Lynyrd Skynyrd, one of the most influential bands of our time.  This unique concert event centered around performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd, including a special rendition of “Travelin’ Man” with Johnny Van Zant singing along with an archival video of his late brother, Ronnie performing, as well as a rousing rendition of “Sweet Home Alabama” with Skynyrd inviting the entire star-studded line-up up on stage to perform along side them.

The show will be available July 24, 2105 as a two CD/DVD set titled Lynyrd Skynyrd - One More For The Fans on Loud & Proud Records in partnership with Blackbird Presents.  The band will also be hitting the road this spring and summer (tour dates below) and will return to the CMT Crossroads stage for a taping with Brantley Gilbert.

One More For The Fans features performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd as well as music legends and young talent, culled from multiple genres including Classic Rock, Country and Americana with Trace Adkins, Alabama, Gregg Allman, Blackberry Smoke, Cheap Trick, Charlie Daniels, Peter Frampton, Gov’t Mule, Warren Haynes, John Hiatt, Randy Houser, Jason Isbell, Jamey Johnson, Aaron Lewis, moe., O.A.R., Robert Randolph and Donnie Van Zant all coming together to perform songs from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s extensive catalog of music.  

“Hearing all of these incredible musicians sing our songs was unforgettable,” says Rossington.  “It was a really special night and I’m so happy our fans will now get to enjoy the show at home.”

Keith Wortman, creator and executive producer of the concert event, broadcast special and music release worked with Ken Levitan and Ross Schilling who also served as executive producers of the show. Don Was led the all-star house band as musical director for the evening.   

As part of the campaign to save the Fox Theatre from demolition, Lynyrd Skynyrd recorded their 1976 live album, One More From The Road, at the landmark theatre. The title Lynyrd Skynyrd - One More For The Fans! was inspired by that legendary album’s title.

Joining in the celebration of the legendary band is AXS TV as it serves as the official broadcaster of Lynyrd Skynyrd - One More For The Fans. AXS TV will premiere the concert event on Sunday, July 19 at 8:00pm EST / 5:00pm PST, allowing fans nationwide to enjoy these remarkable performances.

With a catalog of over 60 albums and sales beyond 30 million worldwide, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd remains a cultural icon that appeals to multiple generations. Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to build on the legacy that began over 40 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida.  Led by core members Gary Rossington (guitar), 

Johnny Van Zant (vocals) and Rickey Medlocke (guitar), along with longtime drummer Michael Cartellone, the band also includes Mark "Sparky" Matejka (guitar), Johnny Colt (bass), Peter Keys (keyboards) and The Honkettes-Dale Krantz Rossington and Carol Chase-on background vocals.

“Lynyrd Skynyrd - One More For The Fans” Track Listing:

1. Whiskey Rock A Roller – performed by Randy Houser                 

2. You Got That Right – performed by Robert Randolph & Jimmy Hall           

3. Saturday Night Special – performed by Aaron Lewis                   

4. Workin’ For MCA – performed by Blackberry Smoke         

5. Don't Ask Me No Questions – performed by O.A.R.  

6. Gimme Back My Bullets – performed by Cheap Trick

7. The Ballad of Curtis Loew – performed by moe. & John Hiatt

8. Simple Man – performed by Gov't Mule                  

9. That Smell – performed by Warren Haynes           

10.  Four Walls of Raiford – performed by Jamey Johnson               

11.  I Know A Little – performed by Jason Isbell  

12.  Call Me The Breeze – performed by Peter Frampton

13.  What's Your Name – performed by Trace Adkins           

14.  Down South Jukin’ – performed by Charlie Daniels & Donnie Van Zant

15.  Gimme Three Steps – performed by Alabama                 

16.  Tuesday's Gone – performed by Gregg Allman              

17.  Travelin’ Man – performed by Lynyrd Skynyrd With Johnny and Ronnie – Ronnie on big screen

18.  Free Bird - performed by Lynyrd Skynyrd

19.  Sweet Home Alabama – performed by Lynyrd Skynyrd and the entire line-up

Lynyrd Skynyrd 2015 Tour Dates:

5/28 - Westbury, NY – Theatre at Westbury

5/29 - Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods Resort Casino

5/30 - Virginia Beach, VA – Patriotic Festival

6/11 - Tulsa, OK – Hard Rock Hotel and Casino – The Joint

6/12 - Grande Prairie, TX – KZPS / Bo and Jim Bash @ Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie

6/13 - Austin, TX – 20^th Anniversary ROT Rally @ Travis County Expo Center

6/19 - Alpharetta, GA – Kicks Country/Rock 100.5 CROCK FEST – Verizon Amphitheater at Encore Park

6/20 - Bluefield, WV – “Second Chance Rocks The Two Virginias” @ Mitchell Stadium

6/26 - Dover, DE – Big Barrel Festival

6/27 - Gilford, NH – Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook

6/28 - Cohasset, MA – South Shore Music Circus

7/14 - Ottawa, ON – Ottawa Bluesfest

7/16 - Oshkosh, WI – Rock USA


7/17 Chillicothe, IL – Country Life Music Festival – 3 Sisters Park

7/31 - Morton, MN – Jackpot Junction Casino

8/1 - Council Bluffs, IA – GrassRoots II Festival @ River’s Edge Park

8/2 - Littleton, CO – The Hudson Gardens & Event Center – Outdoor Amphitheatre

8/4 - Sturgis, SD – Sturgis Buffalo Chip Campground

8/6 - Roseburg, OR – Douglas County Fair

8/7 - Airway Heights, WA – Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/8 - Billings, MT – Montanafair

8/14 - Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

8/15 - Watertown, NY – Freshener/F.X. Caprara Summer Concert Series presented by DPAO at Watertown Fairgrounds

8/18 - Lewiston, NY – Artpark

8/19 - Harrisonburg, VA – Rockingham County Fair

8/21 - Avondale, IL – Eastbound Hoedown Music Festival

8/28 - Huber Heights, OH – Music Center at The Heights

9/3 - St. Paul, MN – Minnesota State Fair Grandstand

9/4 - Alton, IL  - Liberty Bank Amphitheater

9/5 - New Lenox, IL – New Lenox Commons – Community

9/6 - Wauseon, OH – Fulton County Fair

9/15 - Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery

9/17 - Jackson CA – Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel

9/20 - Scottsdale, AZ – Talking Stick Resort & Casino

10/2 - Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater

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

Sights and Sounds: Ringo Starr, Sigur Rós, Garbage, James McCartney, Big Country and more

I was out of town much of this week so I was unable to post music stuff at my usual clip. How about a game of "catch up"?

Read George A. Paul's great article on the new Ringo Starr exhibit titled Ringo: Peace & Love opening that played out at The Grammy Museum on Tuesday, June 11. 

After reading the post on George's Music Minded blog, I am hoping to get up to L.A. Live soon to check out this exhibition soon.

Make sure to check out my latest reviews on the MusicWorthBuying.com site. In addition to Sigur Rós' forthcoming Kveikur (which will be released this Tuesday, June 18), I praise the DVD/Blu-ray release of Garbage's One Mile High...Live and James McCartney's excellent Me. Look for upcoming reviews of the latest albums from Julian Lennon (Everything Changes), Bell X1 (Chop Chop), Robert Randolph and the Family Band (Lickety Split) in the near future; I've received a number of strong releases and I'm working on getting reviews of them up as I have a good chance to give all repeated listenings. On the DVD front, I'll have a review of the exciting Frank Zappa A Token of His Extreme.

Big Country will be at The Coach House on June 21.

I'm also going to be checking out Big Country's forthcoming concert stop at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on June 21 and will post a review of that show the next day.

I've read glowing reviews of some of the recent tour stops by Big Country (now featuring singer Mike Peters of The Alarm) and look forward to seeing the group play its classics as well as new material from 2013's The Journey. 

Doheny Blues Festival offers two full days of memorable performances in Dana Point

Tedeschi Trucks rocks the Doheny Stage. Photo: Bob Steshetz

My coverage of Doheny Blues Festival 16 was originally published in The Orange County Register on May 19 and 20, 2013.

Here is my review that was published on May 19, 2013:

Doheny Blues Fest shimmers on Day 1

May 19th, 2013, 10:44 am ·

The teaming of Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite caps off a perfect first half.· 

posted by ROBERT KINSLER, FOR THE REGISTER

Day 1 at Doheny Blues Festival was one of the most perfect in the 16-year history of the event with sunny skies stretching from morning to nightfall and a shining musical lineup to match. The long day's headlining act, a teaming one-two punch from Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite, lived up to its top billing. The duo's 2013 release Get Up! is that rare disc where everything is as it should be – meaning the songs, performances and integrated styles of the artists gel completely.

That chemistry proved itself to be just as persuasive on a beautiful night in Dana Point, with singer-harmonica legend Musselwhite and singer-songwriter-guitarist Harper and his solid three-man backing group tore up the Doheny Stage for just over 100 minutes before a near-capacity crowd.

Opening with "I Don't Believe a Word You Say," a fiery blues tune that has Harper's blistering vocals and Musselwhite's equally potent blues harp work exchanging blows, the set never let up. Even when performing quiet material ("Don't Look Twice," "Get Up!") there were so many dynamics courtesy of Harper's slide work, Musselwhite's harp blasts and the band's groove that the intensity never wavered.

The performance reached its zenith near the end of the rewarding set when the ensemble ripped through an extended cover of Led Zeppelin's "When the Levee Breaks" boasting loads of Musselwhite's harmonica attack amidst the fire of Harper's slide.

James Hunter. Photo: Bob Steshetz

Saturday's lineup was truly an exhibition of the wide range of artists whose sounds are inspired or rooted in blues music. The James Hunter Six, led by British singer-songwriter-guitar master Hunter, definitely got a huge crowd positioned in front of the Sailor Jerry Stage dancing and grooving to its blend of blues, R&B and soul. Playing cuts off the newly released "Minute By Minute" ("The Gypsy" definitely hit home), he also explored his back catalog. On an uptempo take on "Jacqueline," Hunter showed off his guitar playing when he did some smart licks in tandem with his two sax players.

One of the toughest choices for concertgoers was deciding whether to see Tedeschi Trucks Band on the main Doheny Stage or Mark Hummel's Blues Harp Blowout on the intimate Backporch, since both sets overlapped. This writer opted to take in the first four songs of Tedeschi Trucks before running to catch the harmonica-centric tribute to Little Walter.

Guitarist Derek Trucks solos. Photo: Bob Steshetz

As evidenced when husband Derek Trucks and wife Susan Tedeschi last performed at Doheny Beach in 2011, the 11-member troupe is a powerful force that has a full arsenal thanks to Tedeschi's mighty soprano, Trucks' power on the slide guitar and a mix of backing singers and other players that got their collective moments to shine, too. Of the songs I caught, "It's So Heavy" impressed as a blues-drenched ballad showcasing Tedeschi's range and the nuanced performance by the large ensemble around her.

Another promising performance yielded big returns with a well-timed tribute to Little Walter. With the recent release of "Remembering Little Walter," the majority of the collection's players joined forces to pay tribute to the late harmonica giant before a crowd that cheered, often danced and genuinely seemed ignited by the power of many of today's best blues harmonica players.

While Musselwhite watched from the wings, Hummel, Billy Boy Arnold and Sugar Ray Norcia performed their versions of many of Little Walter's best-known tunes. Little Charlie Baty inflicted some skilled guitar playing throughout the long set as well. Highlights came via Hummel's gentle take on the extended instrumental "Blue Light," Sugar Ray Norcia's blazing "Mean Old World" and Arnold's original song "Wandering Eye."

Of the day's first seven performances, Harry Manx (joined by fellow Canadian Steve Marriner of the group MonkeyJunk) was the most impressive. His blend of blues, folk and world music was a welcome expansion on the wide-ranging spirit of day one. His "Coat of Mail" was among a number of outstanding original songs that connected.


Photo: Bob Steshetz



The other standout was singer-guitar virtuoso Joanne Shaw Taylor (pictured on the left). A British blues guitarist whose hard-hitting and dazzling chops recalled those unleashed by a young Joe Bonamassa or Walter Trout, she will likely be a future returnee to the fest based on the enthusiastic reception from the Doheny crowd packed in front of the Sailor Jerry Stage.

Bring on day 2.

Here is my review that was published on May 20, 2013:

Doheny Blues Fest among strongest ever

May 20th, 2013, 11:34 am ·

The diverse lineup included guitar virtuosos Joe Bonamassa and Robert Randolph, closing with a rocking set by George Thorogood.· 

posted by ROBERT KINSLER, FOR THE REGISTER

Doheny Blues Fest 16 ranks as one of the greatest in the history of the annual event, with the range and power of so many of the performances drawing comparisons with the 2007 fest when Al Green and John Fogerty were the headliners.

But in terms of diversity, 2013's blues fest even had that year's running beat.

Guitar Shorty in action. Photo: Robert Kinsler

After a strong Saturday (May 18, 2013) capped by a performance from Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite, Sunday offered two great options at 11:30 a.m. I opted to catch Guitar Shorty on the Backporch first, where a huge crowd was on hand for the so-called "Hangover Set." The 73-year-old singer-guitarist pioneered a blistering style that influenced a number of guitarists in the 1950s and '60s, most notably Jimi Hendrix.

As evidenced by the first half of his set, the Houston, native still has the ability to thrill. Using speedy runs as well as the various knobs and the whammy bar on his instrument he created all kinds of sound and effects in the support of solid vocal performance on an ambitious 15-minute version of "Too Late." He offered up many of his guitar theatrics while venturing out into the crowd.

I then ran over to the main Doheny Stage in time to catch 15 minutes of Gino Matteo and his five-member band. A strong singer and guitarist, he impressed with his blend of roots and blues styles.

Cindy Cashdollar. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Other Sunday highlights also featured guitar greats showcasing their talents on the fest's three stages. First came the Louisiana-tinged "Toast of the Coast" set featured slide guitar great Sonny Landreth joining forces with steel guitarist Cindy Cashdollar, singer-pianist Marcia Ball and Zydeco hero Terrance Simien for 75 glorious minutes. Memorable turns included the beautiful instrumental "Salvation" with Ball and Cashdollar shining, and "Hell At Home" with Landreth and Cashdollar showing off licks while Simien kept time on his frottoir (a Cajun washboard).

Shemekia Copeland, a blues singer with a thundering soprano, delighted a big crowd gathered in front of the Sailor Jerry Stage. A highlight was the forceful ballad "Ain't Gonna Be Your Tattoo," on which the mix of power and nuanced delivery showed her artistry.

The first of Sunday's best two performances came courtesy of singer-guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa dazzling untold thousands with his set on the Doheny Stage. Over the past six years, since I first caught the Malibu-based guitarist in concert, his abilities continue to impress. His dexterity, ability of play with incredible speed while articulating each note and putting those runs together in artistically-rewarding ways is unique.

On the opener "Slow Train," which boasted a heavy groove, and subsequent "Dust Bowl," Bonamassa was fully in control of his instrument while his solid backing trio provided the perfect groove for his dynamic forays. "Midnight Blues" was distinctive for his strong vocal performance, where he sprinkled short guitar fills and runs that amazed.

The other outstanding performance of the day was the return of guitarist David "Kid" Ramos to the stage, where he joined singer-songwriter Janiva Magness for part of her set on the Backporch.

Anaheim-based Ramos, who has been fighting a well-publicized battle with cancer for more than a year, was introduced about mid-way through Magness' set and received an immediate standing ovation from the crowd.

"Thank you so much; I'm so happy to be here," Ramos said. "I just started chemo two days ago."

Ramos likely drew strength from the big welcome, and fully proved that his mighty talents on the guitar remain as strong as ever. Magness, a powerful singer whose style effortlessly blends soul and blues, has an approach that was perfect for Ramos' stellar lead guitar work to be featured over the course of just over 20 minutes.

Next came Robert Randolph & the Family Band, a group that immediately got the blues faithful moving with Randolph's amazing runs on his pedal steel guitar. With temps finally cooling, many got to their feet in the grassy area in front of the Sailor Jerry Stage and danced to Randolph's mix of blues, rock, soul and gospel.

It is fitting that the long weekend closed out on a festive note. Those coming for the party could raise a drink (or their fists) and sing along with George Thorogood & the Destroyers throughout the quintet's 90-minute set. There was little depth in the group's rock 'n' blues attack, just an invitation to live for the moment courtesy of "Who Do You Love?," "I Drink Alone," "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer" and "Move It On Over."

Thorogood was a gracious host and rocked the beach armed with his electric guitar and distinctive slide guitar. His set came to an end with a rollicking "Madison Blues," with Thorogood soloing while videos of him in the early days of his career flashed on big screens.