# artists

artist: La Nuova Musica
description: vocal and instrumental chamber music
homepage: nuova
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/nuova.jpg
bio:
La Nuova Musica was formed by the countertenor David Bates who is joined by some of Europe's most talented Baroque music specialists. It is a chamber music ensemble that performs vocal and instrumental works of the XVII and XVIII centuries. The group's repertoire ranges from Monteverdi to Purcell and Bach to Couperin, always performing with solo voices and single period instruments. The group is flexible in number and at its smallest performs recitals with just one voice and continuo, expanding to perform Handel's Messiah with a total of 16 singers and players.

La Nuova Musica is equally committed to live performance and the art of recording. The group has recorded works by Caccini, Monteverdi, Handel, Purcell and Blow. A disc of cantatas and motets by Telemann and J.S. Bach is planned for 2008.


artist: La Primavera
description: English Renaissance music.
homepage: primavera
city: Hanno City
country: Japan
bandphoto: /artists/img/laprimavera.jpg
bio:
Ed Durbrow has studied the lute since the mid 1970s. Among his many teachers were Robert Strizich, Paul Odette and a year with Eugene Dombois at the Schola Cantorum in Basel, Switzerland in 1979-80.

His discography includes a band single recorded in EMI's Abbey Road Studios as a result of winning the first Melody Maker Rock Contest in London in 1972 and a writing credit on an Ueda Masaki number one album in Japan in 1983. He has composed music for TV commercials and other performers CDs in Japan as well as recording much music in his own studio for many diverse artists. He has played all over Japan performing in costume for general audiences many of whom have never seen a lute.

The personel for La Primavera seems to be ever changing in Japan. For this recording, tenor Jacob Dougherty, bass Nathaniel Hurvitz and soprano Michelle Keobke of Canada joined Americans viola da gambists David Morris and Natalie Sera, recorder player Richard Geisler, and soprano Beverly Marks.


artist: La Reverie
description: Recreating traditional music from a modern perspective
homepage: la_reverie
city: Granada
country: Spain
bandphoto: /artists/img/lareverie_new.jpg
bio:
Esteban Canyar was born in Granada (Spain) in 1962, where he studied classic guitar, vihuela and renaissance and baroque lute. He learnt music theory at Open University and attended courses and master classes with prominent guitarists such as David Russel.

Among his most remarkable redorded albums are: Musica antigua para un tiempo vacio (2002) featuring soprano Palmira Irisarri; El sombrero del alquimista (2009) with multi-instrumentist Ignacio Bejar, an album which was very well received by the critics and is regularly aired on the Spanish National Radio; and Alma de cuerda - Soul of String in (2010), by Magnatune, an album that is being widely heard worldwide through music platforms such as Spotify or iTunes.

In March 2012, Manuel recorded live for the Spanish TV (RTVE) in a remarkable scenario: aboard the Goleta Sadko, a schooner anchored at Puerto de Santa Maria (Cadix, Spain). He has performed in a great number of venues, such as: Sala Gades at the renowned Teatro Cervantes in Malaga (May 2007); Salvador Dali's birthplace, as part of the Cadaques International Music Festival (August 2007); Arab baths in Ronda, Malaga (June, 2008); at the closing concert for the I World Music Festival at Malaga University (May, 2009); Bil-bil Castle in Benalmadena, Malaga, as part of the Music for the Soul Festival (September 2012); and at the Salon de los Espejos in Malaga's Town Hall (June, 2014).

Juan Manuel Rubio is a multi-instrumentalist essentially of self-taught orientation, born in Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz) on May 30th, 1972, a waning moon night.

His interest in ancient, ethnic and traditional music has led him to progress in an endless pilgrimage through different musical instruments such as Rabel, Hurdy-gurdy and other instruments from the Iberian Peninsula tradition, or the Crwth Harp from the Welsh bardic tradition.

A more recent exciting discovery is Arabic, Turkish and Persian music under such illustrious teachers as Amin Chaachoo (Tetuan), and Oruc Guvenc and Necati celik (Istanbul) with whom he excels in the interpretation of the Oud.

In Istanbul he also began his training as an interpreter of Turkish Santur, Qanun Baglama and Saz with outstanding teachers such as Suhat Baktagir, Tarik Aydoglu and Osman Aksu. This ongoing training has today led him to specialize in the interpretation and study of these and other instruments such as Rebec, Fiddle, Kemanja, Qanun, and Lute.

Since 1999 he has participated and collaborated in different ensembles specializing in the interpretation of Early, Traditional and Eastern and Mediterranean music such as çbrigu, Bran Ruz, Alquimia, Arte Factvm, Caravasar, Estambul, El Sombrero del Alquimista, Capella de Ministrers, L'ham de Foc, Ross Daly, Samarcanda, Mediterranea, Zejel, Durendal Ensemble, Capilla de Musica Antigua de Chinchilla, Estampida Real, Yasmine Levy, Dufay Collective, Estampie, Tetouan Conservatory Orchestra and Schola Gregoriana Hispana.

With these groups he has participated in festivals and major scenarios dedicated to Early and Traditional music all around Spain (Gijon, Sevilla, Barcelona, Girona, Caceres, Valencia, Castellon, Granada, Toledo, San Sebastian, Salamanca, etc.) and the world (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Germany, France, People's Republic of China, USA, Greece, Netherlands, Brazil, Cuba, etc.)

Yolanda Campos was born in Cadiz (Spain) in 1977, she started her music career at Orense's Conservatory of Music where, in 1991, she discovered one of her biggest passions: singing. Besides her music studies (music theory, singing and piano) in the north of Spain, she graduated in translation and interpreting from the University of Granada in 2000 and speaks seven different languages.

Yolanda has sung in quartets, octets and choirs with conductors such as Francisco Ruiz, Pablo Heras, Josep Pons and Harry Christophers.

Among her noteworthy concerts are: the recording of Jose Garcia Roman's Stabat Mater for the Spanish national radio (Granada, 1995); Mozart's Magic Flute at Granada's renowned International Festival of Music and Dance (2000); cooperations with La Danserye in the Ecos del Templo y de la Corte (Echos of Temples and Courts) series of concerts around Andalusia (2006); or being in charge of the closing performance as a soloist at UNESCO's conference on Education for the Third Millenium (Malaga, March 2013).

A highly versatile and expressive artist, she loves all music styles and has also worked as one of the main characters in Romeo and Juliet: the Musical for two years.

She has taught music and dance for 5 years in different international schools in Thailand to students between 3 and 16 years of age. She has also organised numerous music events both in Thailand and Spain, some of which have helped her raise money for charity institutions.

She is currently involved in diverse music projects and works as a teacher training organiser at the Teachers' Centre in Malaga. She lives in Malaga with her husband and two children.

Inmaculada Gomez Diaz was born in Malaga in 1985. She graduated in Transverse Flute from Malaga's Higher Conservatory of Music and has completed a great number of flute-based courses with prestigious professors such as Salvador Espasa, Fried Dahn, Barbara Rostnitschek, Gabriel Ahumada, Wendela Clarie and Paul Arhz.

Some of her most relevant performances have taken place in her hometown: with the Symphonic Orchestra of Malaga's Higher Conservatory of Music conducted by Octavio Calleya at Seville's Cristobal de Morales Professional Conservatory of Music in 2007; at the Young Interpreters Festival in Malaga's Maria Cristina Conservatory and as Main Flute in the municipal bands of Mijas and Antequera; and with Banda Trinidad Sinfonica at Malaga's Alameda Theatre.

Despite her youth, she is involved in an intense teaching activity. She has taught members of Zamarrilla and Trinidad Sinfonica Bands and she currently teaches Transverse Flute, Piano and Musical Language at three different Music Schools: Coin's School of Music, Alhaurin de la Torre's Municipal School of Music and Torremolinos' Albergue de la Musica - where she also teaches music to disabled children. She is currently studying a Music Teaching Degree in Primary Education.

angel Martin Bandera was born in Malaga in 1976. His interest for music started at a very early age although he would begin his formal music studies after obtaining his bachelor's degree in engineering. He began studying traverse flute in 1998. However, his passion for music from "other worlds" constituted an awakening initially characterized by a deep interest in African percussion, which lead him to an investigation experience in Burkina Faso in 2000.

One year later, he worked for an NGO as a social facilitator and educator in Bolivia, where he studied two Andean instruments: the quena and the siku.

In 2002, during a three-year period living in Italy, angel combined his flute studies in Arrigo Boito Conservatory of Music in Parma with the deep research on wind and percussion instruments present in cultures all around the world. Back to Malaga in 2005, his flute studies continued with Keiko Takehuchi and he began his autodidactic studies on frame drums (mainly riq and tar). Since then, he has attended several workshops on frame drums and has continued his research on this type of percussion. One of his most renowned teachers has been Ricardo Passos.

angel has worked as a therapist and facilitator for different projects and associations in Malaga (Spain), La Paz (Bolivia) and Cremona and Parma (Italy). As a flutist and percussionist he has worked and performed with bands of various music styles (rock, folk, traditional music) such as: Khairkan, El Sombrero del Alquimista, Userne or Mokambo, with whom he has performed in Spain, Italy and Latin America.

You can find out more about La Reverie on their website.


artist: Ladislav Jelinek
description: classical works from a World renowned pianist
homepage: ladislav_jelinek
city: Bad Homburg
country: Germany
bandphoto: /artists/img/ladislav_jelinek.jpg
bio:
For a degree in piano music Ladislav Jelinek attended the conservatory of Brno and studied under the famous Czech master, Prof F Schafer at the Janacek Academy - JAMU in Brno.

He had already won, during his studies, the first Smetana Piano Contest in Hradec Kralove, as well as the contest of the Czech Conservatories in Bratislava. Several times he received the Czech Musical Fond Award for his excellent interpretations of Czech and Russian compositions and in Florida was awarded the Orpheus Award for outstanding solo performances.

Until 1981 Ladislav Jelinek was employed as a pedagogue of the University of Brno and at the conservatory of Moravian Ostrava (professorship for piano as main subject). Since 1984 he has worked as a university teacher for piano at the Frankfurt am Main University for Music and the Performing Arts in Germany.

As piano soloist and chamber musician he is in constant demand and has given concerts in nearly all the European countries, North America and Asia. His repertoire includes all periods and styles of piano music. Ladislav collaborates with leading orchestras and soloists in both Europe and Asia.

He has made numerous recordings for:

Bayerischer Rundfunk-Munchen (Germany); 

Czech TV and radio; 

Sudwestrundfunk (Germany); 

Japanese TV; 

Korean TV and radio; 

and on CD and DVD. 

with compositions by:

L van Beethoven; 

J.Brahms; 

F.Chopin; 

A.Dvorak; 

J.Haydn; 

L.Janac ek; 

F.Liszt; 

Liszt - Verdi; 

Liszt - Wagner; 

W.A.Mozart; 

Vit.Novak; 

J.Novak; 

S.Prokofjew; and 

F.Smetana. 

Ladislav Jelinek gives his performances on some of the most significant stages of the world:

Manuel de Falla - Alhambra (Granada - Spain); 

Alte Oper (Frankfurt - Germany); 

Chiesa di Santo Stefano - Teatro la Fenice (Venice - Italy); 

Dvorakova Sin - Rudolfinum (Prague - Czech Republic); 

Festival Internacional de musica de Morelia (Mexico);
NHK TV (Tokyo - Japan); and 

KBS TV - Seoul Arts Center (Seoul - Korea). 

"The pianist carried the audience away through his soft and affectionate interpretations, the relaxing play that does not put bravura on the masterly played decorations but makes them to decorative additions, and through his musicality, which gives the works expression and intensity."
Dr. Michael Jacob


artist: Laetoli Steps
description: indie-folk super-group's debut album
homepage: laetoli_steps
city: Norwich
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/laetoli_steps.jpg
bio:
Laetoli Steps's debut album is an indie-folk project led by Rich Cramp, (previously of John Peel favourites Garlic). These 12 songs feature Nick Johnson of Thunderclap Newman on guitar, Nick Simms of Cornershop on drums, Mia Pixley of The Debutante Hour on cello/vocs, Dr. Cyriel Diels on bass and occasional keyboards from Erika Cramp (previously of Jesse Quin and The Mets).

The music is a fusion of Americana, Indie Rock and Alt Country styles but with a twist: they use cello and double bass to give the sound a chamber-pop quality.

Laetoli Steps were born in London in 2008 and after extensive gigging and touring the country, they have honed their own sound and now have a debut album to prove it. Rich is currently working on his second album with his wife.


artist: Lara St John
description: Bach violin concertos
homepage: lara_st_john
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lara_st_john.jpg
bio:
Described as "something of a phenomenon" by The Strad magazine and a "high-powered soloist" by the New York Times, Canadian-born violinist Lara St. John has performed as soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Toronto Symphony, the Montreal Symphony, the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra of Budapest, among many others, and given recitals around the world.

The Strad magazine selected her as one of "the stars of the next decade" and called her "an electrifying player, as deeply satisfying in Bach as she is bewitchingly seductive in Waxman's 'Carmen' Fantasy. The L.A. Times has said: "St. John brings to the stage personal charisma, an unflagging musical imagination and genuine passion. Her two albums to date are bona-fide classics of the violin discography."

In January 2002, Lara released her third CD on her own label. Bach: The Concerto Album and has received enthusiastic reviews. Gramophone Magazine placed the disc in its strongly recommended section, and wrote "It is difficult to argue with such a technically dazzling and unfailingly musical interpretation."

During 1999/2000 highlights included engagements with the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Seattle Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Buffalo Philharmonic, Shanghai Broadcasting Symphony, and Edmonton Symphony, while the 2000/01 season brought her debuts with the New Jersey Symphony under Hugh Wolff, the Tokyo Symphony (Paavo Jarvi), Hong Kong Philharmonic, Honolulu Symphony, and Calgary Philharmonic, among others. During last season she debuted with the Cincinnati Symphony, Prague Philharmonia, Sao Paulo Symphony, Opera de Marseille and performs numerous other concerto appareances in Canada and the US, as well as recitals at Ravinia, the Miller Theater in New York, in Montreal, Quebec City, and throughout China. Season 2002/03 continues the array of appearances on the recital stage and as soloist with orchestra, among them the symphonies of Portland, Delaware, Knoxville, the Florida Orchestra, and Northwest Sinfonietta. In addition she will undertake a nation-wide recital tour under the auspices of Community Cocerts. Other future engagements include debuts at Tanglewood with the Boston Pops under Keith Lockhart and performances with the Vancouver Symphony, among others.

She has been victorious in several competitions and in 1997 won the use of the 1702 Lyall Stradivarius for two years from the Canada Council for the Arts and an anonymous donor. Upon hearing her audition, the panel of judges exclaimed, "Today we have heard one of the great violinists of our time! Inspirational." Currently, she performs on the 1779 "Salabue" Guadagnini thanks to an anonymous donor and Heinl & Co., Toronto.

Lara began playing the violin when she was 2 years old. She first soloed with orchestra at age 5, and made her European debut with the Gulbenkian Orchestra (Lisbon) five years later. She toured Spain, France, Portugal and Hungary at ages 12 and 13, entered the Curtis Institute at 14, and spent her first summer at Marlboro three years later.

Upon her graduation from Curtis, at age 17, Lara took off for Moscow to find out if there was really more to life than just music --- there was. At this time, most teachers at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory (including hers) were indefinitely extending their journeys west, and being without a teacher for the first time gave her the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. She also spent two years in England at the Guildhall school, holds a certificate from the Mannes College in New York City, and an Artist's Diploma from the New England Conservatory in Boston. Her teachers over the years have included Linda Cerone, David Takeno, Arnold Steinhardt, Felix Galimir and Joey Corpus.

Lara is a great fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, reptiles, and the American Museum of Natural History. She resides in New York City.


artist: Laura Dreyer
description: jazz, funk and rock with a Brazilian flair
homepage: laura_dreyer
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/laura_dreyer.jpg
bio:
Laura Dreyer, a native of the San Francisco Bay Area, has been a dynamic member of the New York jazz scene since her arrival. Her original compositions fuse elements of jazz, funk, and rock with a Brazilian flair, creating a unique, contemporary palette of sound with a wide array of textures.

Mysterious Encounter, her longstanding Brazilian-jazz ensemble features Dreyer on saxophones and flute and has featured many well-known musicians in the Brazilian Jazz idiom. The group headlined the Kennedy Center's "Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival" and opened for David Sanborn at the Syracuse Jazz Festival. They have also performed at many of New York City's top clubs, including Sweet Rhythm, Birdland, Le Bar Bat, Sete MOMA, The Fifth House Performance Space, El Taller Latino Americano, Caviarteria, La Belle Epoque, Zanzibar, Europa Cafe, the popular Tribeca lounge, Dekk, and Cachaca.

Laura was recently awarded two grants in 2010 from The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council to produce a live concert which featured The New York Brazilian Jazz Funk Project. In the Summer of 2010 Laura was a featured performer and educator in Busan, South Korea at The Friends of Music in Korea music festival.

A multi-instrumentalist, Dreyer is in great demand as a sideperson. Her love of Brazilian music in particular has been fostered by her work with such noted musicians such as pianist Dom Salvador, with whom Laura performed in Rio de Janiero at the 2010 Copafest, vocalist Leny Andrade, guitarist Romero Lubambo (who has performed as a guest with Mysterious Encounter), pianists and Weber Iago, drummer Portinho, percussionist Helcio Milito, Brazilian Breeze, vocalist/percussionist Kerry Linder, as well as many others.

Audiences have heard her burning alto and rugged tenor in the bands of such diverse artists as Dr. Billy Taylor, Rufus Reid, Akira Tana, Walter Bishop Jr., Mel Lewis, Robert Palmer, Nnenna Freelon, Lea Delaria, The Big O Orchestra, and saxophonist/author James McBride. Laura has toured Cyprus with the Broadway show Five Guys Named Moe, performed in the national tour of the Duke Ellington tribute Hit Me With a Hot Note which featured Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., as well as performing in the on stage band of the award winning musical Hot and Sweet at the New York Musical Theatre Festival. Dreyer has also appeared with various big bands and small ensembles at Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, the Village Vanguard, 7th Ave. South, S.O.B.'s, the Hartford Jazz Festival, and the Savannah Jazz Festival, as well as tours of Europe and Japan.

A scholarship student at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Dreyer studied with noted music educators Andy McGee, Joe Viola, and John LaPorta. In addition, she took private lessons with saxophone greats Joe Henderson and Joe Lovano, composers Lyle Mays and Jim McNeely. The National Endowment for the Arts awarded Laura three grants: one in performance and two in professional jazz study/composition. She participated in the BMI composition program conducted by composer/trombonist Bob Brookmeyer. Four of her songs have received honorable mention in Billboard Magazine's songwriting contests. Dreyer was a founding member and contributing arranger for the big band DIVA. She remained with the ensemble for six years, playing both lead alto and tenor. With DIVA, she performed at Tavern on the Green, annual conferences for the International Association of Jazz Educators, New York's famed Blue Note jazz club, the Kennedy Center, and such prestigious festivals as Newport, Montreal, Pori, and Berlin. Since Diva accompanied a wide range of solo artists, Dreyer also had wonderful opportunities to perform with major talents such as Rosemary Clooney, Dave Brubeck, Joe Williams, Jack Jones, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Rebecca Parris, Maurice Hines, Diane Schuur, Slide Hampton, Clark Terry, and many others.

Dreyer is very active as a music educator, having served on the faculties of the Jamey Aebersold jazz clinics, Cazadero Music and Arts Camp, and the New York Pops Salute to Music program. Laura is currently a faculty member in the Jazz Department of the prestegious Hoff-Barthelson Music School in Scarsdale, New York where she teaches jazz woodwinds, theory, conducts ensembles, and leads jazz improvisation classes, as well as The Church St. School for Music and Art in Tribeca, where Laura teaches piano and woodwinds. She regularly conducts clinics and workshops at high schools and colleges which have included The Berklee College of Music and The 2007 Jazz Improv Convention. Dreyer was a featured columnist in Saxophone Journal for five years, and continues to write for various music publications including Jazz Improv Magazine, and Sax on the Web. In addition to her music career, Laura has studied and performed comedy improv and sketch comedy at The People's Improv Theatre and the Magnet Theatre in New York City, and has appeared on television and radio as an improv and voice actor.


artist: Laura Inserra
description: the Hang, a new instrument from Switzerland
homepage: inserra
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/inserra2.jpg
bio:
Laura Inserra was born in Sicily, Italy, in 1974. At the age of 15 she started studying classical piano, but her passion for research led her to improvisation. She played with different musicians and explored various musical styles, and within a few years she was able to apply the free improvisation technique on many instruments: bass, soprano sax, classical flute and ethnic percussion instruments.

Thanks to musicians and teachers from various continents, she learned to both play and construct native instruments of the world, like the didgeridoo from Australia, the djembe from Africa, bamboo flutes from India and others invented by her.

In 1993 she moved to Rome to study psychology. At this point, her research intensified, specializing on ethno-tribal instruments and cultural anthropology. This is when she also started teaching percussion instruments and didgeridoo. She attended the Classical Music Conservatory in Italy, where she studied classical orchestral percussion.

Throughout the next decade in Rome, she authored and performed various pieces of music for theater, dance performances, exhibitions and soundtracks for movies with acclaimed musicians from all over the world. She has also collaborated musically and as a technical assistant to Paolo Buonvino, one of the most famous Italian movie soundtrack composers for almost two years.

Currently, Laura lives most of the year in Berkeley, CA, where she is creating soundtracks, performances and concerts with West Coast artists of all genres.

In the past few years, she has discovered the Hang, a new instrument from Switzerland. Now her research is focused primarily on the Hang, although she continues to perform with a variety on instruments and she continues to teach percussion instruments and improvisation.


artist: Leda Atomica
description: badass rock and roll
homepage: leda_atomica
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/leda_atomica.jpg
bio:
Voted ROCK ALTERNATIVE ARTIST OF THE YEAR by the L.A. Music Awards, named on the HOT 100 Unsigned Bands list by Music Connection Magazine, and playing the 2009 AUSTIN CITY LIMITS kick-off party, this badass band is well on their way. Not only do they have extensive performance credits to their name, their music has also been used on numerous Soundtracks of Festival Award Winning Shorts, Feature Films and was also a staple in the highly acclaimed Web Series, 3Way.

A viciously seasoned band, Leda Atomica has members that have either played with or opened for National touring acts such as Dee Dee Ramone, Our Lady Peace, Men Without Hats, and Melissa Ferrick just to name a few.

Fronted by Angie Ueber, Leda Atomica's sound rocks the stage and reaches vocal dynamics few can compare to. Her influences include all female Rock varieties like Veruca Salt, Concrete Blonde, and Elastica. Mix in a little Chrissie Hynde and PJ Harvey vocal styles and you get the idea.

Marika Tjelios is a Berklee Graduate bassist and classical pianist who hails from Montreal. Not only an amazing player, she is an accomplished composer and film scorer for ringtones, commercials, industrial videos and documentary feature films. Her talent on the bass and writing experience adds the creative, hypnotic, and solid drive to Leda Atomica's music.

Playing everything from Mozart to Metal, Jazz to marching percussion, Stephen Riddle is a versatile drumming stud. His immense variety, depth, and experience from extensive session work and touring allows no limits to Leda Atomica... basically the man pours out talent and creativity.

The deadly tones and thick crunchy rhythms that pour out of Janel Jones' amp, carve the unique sound and addictive vibe that adds to Leda Atomica's allure. Born and bred on Brit Rock, this self-taught guitarist is a force to be reckoned with.

Leda Atomica's music, style, and talent are quickly launching them from being just another L.A. band to an L.A. band that matters, an L.A. band that you won't forget.

Leda Atomica's website.


artist: LehtMoJoe
description: a booty-grooving, intensely melodic, splice-o-matic masterpiece
homepage: lehtmojoe
state: TX
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lehtmojoe2.jpg
bio:
Producer and artist LehtMoJoe, born Vincent Sliva, is an emerging force on the modern music scene. A Dallas local, Leht has been creating visionary music for over ten years. With an extensive knowledge of musical styles and movements, he has proven himself able to produce tracks which draw from multiple genres and eras yet accurately capture, and even predict, mainstream trends.

In 2009, Leht released solo album Spaghetti Western while hosting a live hip hop show at the Granada Theater in Dallas. Spaghetti Western tracks, together with a string of smart remixes, received significant attention on the local Dallas music scene and international airplay through venues such as Hype Machine Radio, BBC Radio 1, and Mark Ronson's Authentic Shit. Official remixes released by Royksopp, Dragonette, Au Revoir Simone, and Major Lazer established Leht as a force on the electronic scene.

Leht has worked with a number of artists, producing tracks for rappers Anonymous, Shakey Shake, Moses Uvere, and B.T. and pop artists Anthony Sass and Brent Paxton. Masterfully handling both original material and remixes, his creative vision, instinctive musical ear, and skillful execution render him an effective and insightful producer. Above all, he is recognized as an innovator, bringing a unique style with fresh sounds to the industry. As he continues to push the boundaries of popular music, LehtMoJoe is always on the lookout for a new challenge.

For more on LehtMoJoe please visit his website.


artist: Les Filles de Sainte Colombe
description: viol & harpsichord music
homepage: filles
state: IL
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/filles.jpg
bio:
Les Filles de Sainte-Colombe take their name from Le Sieure Sainte-Colombe, the famous 17th-century composer and player of the viol. Sainte-Colombe gave concerts with his daughters, which delighted European audiences. In this tradition, Mary Springfels and Wendy Gillespie formed the ensemble to perform some of the most vital and imaginative string ensemble music ever composed.

The ensemble, who are well known performers individually as soloists and as members of various ensembes, are often joined by distinguished guest artists perfoming on harpsichord, organ, lute or voice. The group has given concerts throughout the USA and Europe with the goal of delighting audiences as did the original daughters of Sainte Colombe.


artist: Liamkins
description: If the Beatles had been born in Russia!
homepage: liamkins
city: Moscow
country: Russia
bandphoto: /artists/img/liamkins.jpg
bio:
Liamkins started as the act of Yury (stage name George) Lyamkin, a Moscow based musician and songwriter. He originally formed a band called The Plane in Moscow in 2002 afterwhich NME (New Musical Express, Russian edition) released on its CD his song "One Diamond". Yury then when on to perform in trend-setting Moscow clubs and achieved more fame when Play magazine chose his song "No one can play" for its CD in 2005.

Yury then changed the name of his band to Updiverss, and recorded his first album 'I Am Happy With My Jacket' at the Woodhouse Studio (Hagen, Westfalen) with the producers Siggi Bemm and Dan Diamond.

Updiverss' songs are played by European radio stations (Krass Radio-Germany, Pulse Rated-UK, Radio Netherland, Belarus Radio Stations). Their song "Treasure" peaked at number one in the top 50 of Midnight Special Blues Radio (Paris, 2009). The band took part in many festivals, for example Linz fest (Austria, 2005) and the biggest rock-fest in Russia 'Nashestviye' (2009).

In 2010 Yury formed his current band, Liamkins which regularly performs in Moscow arenas and the internet radio Poptastic Radio.

In May 2012, Liamkins musicians teeamed up with Michael Ponkratyev (drums) and the producers, Andrey Sinyaev and Timur Dolotkazin at MMS Records to create their album "Reason Softly Speaks Or Just Make It Louder".

"Yury (George) Lyamkin is an amazing artist and songwriter. His addition to our roster is one that is irreplaceable. Yury's songs are melodic and detailed. If Paul McCartney had somehow been born in Russia instead of the UK...he would have ended up being Yury Liamkin. Both his acoustic singer/songwriter songs and his rockers heavily reflect influence by The Beatles, in particular, Paul McCartney in both his Beatles and his Wings tenure and solo career as well. He is nothing short of honest and brilliant as a songwriter and a performer.

As a solo artist, his songs scream movie and television adaptation! Melodic, reflective, emotional compositions that capture the heartstrings of the listener. What a talent! I am sure you will agree!"
(Geoff Eaton - President, Respectable Artists Management and Publishing, Inc)

You can follow Liamkins music on their SoundCloud page and Twitter page.


artist: Lie Big
description: Brooding, melodic grunge
homepage: liebig
city: Outwell
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/liebig.jpg
bio:
Lie Big have more to offer than just the huge wall of sound and anger that is "Overcome". Take the measured attack of "Last One Standing," the drifting harmonies of "When" and the complexities of the title track, this is far from a one trick alligator. The album bristles with energy and anger from start to finish. "Underside" drags you under with it, then pummels you into submission, "Substitute Lovers" disturbs you and "I Am I" delivers its message like a note attached to a melodic house brick......

Growing up in a small town tastes pretty much the same wherever you are in the world. Smoke too much. Drink too much. Get your heart broken; maybe even break someone elses. Feel alone until you find a song or a band that speaks to you. Feel less alone when you pick up an instrument and meet others who feel the same. Form a band, rehearse drunk, rehearse straight, laugh a lot, swear constantly, sweat; bond.

A band is like recipe, throw in your ingredients (aka influences) stir and heat up, stand well back and see what comes out. Three very different personalities, with extremely varied tastes? The end result could be a mess, but somehow the chemistry has worked. On one listen, you might hear a hint of, say, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden or King's X, on second listen maybe something new, something else.... Lie Big.

This life is long journey and all the band members will agree, you don't have to grow up when you grow; it is up to us to decide whether the 'baggage' we accumulate in life is a burden, or an accessory.


artist: Lilly Wolf
description: Catchy dance pop with insightful lyrics
homepage: lilly_wolf
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lilly_wolf.jpg
bio:
Described as "pop music for pop music snobs," New York duo Lilly Wolf have created a catchy collaboration of electronic music infused with the perfect dose of melody, hard-hitting beats, and insightful lyrics.

The project is made up of front woman Lilly Wolfson and producer Alex Neuhausen (Dr. Nu). While the duo consists of these two equal partners, Wolfson's name and face represent them. While studying at Stanford University, Wolfson and Neuhausen met online in a musician-based Facebook group. At the time, Wolfson had a singer/songwriter focus and recruited Neuhausen to play the guitar.

Having won several singing competitions and performed on "A Prairie Home Companion," Wolfson was pursuing a more acoustic sound. However, after a few years of performing music in the Bay Area, the two transitioned their sound and entered the EDM arena, employing synths, elements of house and dubstep, and their own electro flavorings to craft an entirely different sound.

Lilly Wolf is climbing new heights since their relocation to New York City in 2012. Their latest songs have been licensed to Bunim-Murray and regularly soundtrack shows like "The Bad Girls Club" and "Keeping Up With the Kardashians." In the coming months, this dance-inspired act will release a new EP and additional videos while planning a nationwide tour to engage with their growing fan base. In the meantime, the two musicians are employed as web developers by day, working in Bushwick, Brooklyn. At night, they have been playing at increasingly legendary dance parties in local lofts and NYC venues such as Pianos, The Knitting Factory, and The Studio at Webster Hall.

For more info on Lilly check out her website.


artist: Linda Wood
description: melodic, eclectic 'quirk-pop'
homepage: linda_wood
city: Thornleigh
country: Australia
bandphoto: /artists/img/linda_wood_2.jpg
bio:
If Kate Bush had balls she might sound like this. With wholesome sassiness and musicality reminiscent of Doris Day merged with Rickie Lee Jones, Linda Wood delivers melodic, eclectic 'quirk-pop'. Spacious, groovy and organic.

Linda's musical alley is not dark and foreboding. It's the sort of alley you may find traces of Doris Day, Dusty Springfield, the Andrew Sisters and Ella Fitzgerald. It's a place Rickie Lee Jones and Tori Amos might meet for a drink and have a jam. It would have lots of colour and funky little chairs and cafe tables. And you could sit in that alley for hours listening or chatting, or reading a book. In fact, make yourself at home!

Linda's 'left-of-centre' pop recipe is flavoured with musical theatre and jazz. With a background performing in diverse 'musical kitchens and cultures' including musical theatre, rock bands, soul and pop covers bands and choirs, partakers have offered such descriptions as "silk to the eyes, ears and throat...the audience love her as she is warm, friendly and vocally wholesome.

"A complete package."
Iain McGuire - Artistic Director of Mad Cow Theatre Company

Based in Sydney, Australia, Linda has performed under her own name as well as moonlighting with a covers group called "The Bettys" (and "Santa Bettys", a Christmas incarnation of the group).

Other credits include performing, arranging and conducting vocals for "Angels the musical" in Sydney and it's first performance in New York (prior to the SBS documentary).

Linda Wood has also lent her musical and theatrical talents previously to "Leader of the Pack" (Central Coast production), "Downtown" (a musical tribute to the 60s pop scene in Britain) "Straight Up Rogue" (a jazz revue) and "Back to the 80s".

Throughout 2008 Linda lived in the UK learning how to work the crowds in the local pubs also receiving air play on BBC 6 "Introducing with Tom Robinson" during that time. Linda made a few connections that enabled a summer 2009 return to the UK for the Celtic Blue Rock Festival and a few more gigs at smaller local venues.

After participating in the Emergenza Festival in 2010, making the Sydney Semi Final, Linda decided to focus on writing for her next album of which "Boat and Sail" is a foretaste.


artist: Liquid Rainbow
description: a melting pot of classic, pop and rock sounds with modern-dub influences
homepage: liquid_rainbow
city: Milan
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/liquid_rainbow.jpg
bio:
Liquid Rainbow was born from the melting of different musical and life experiences. Melted within the Love of Music, Creation and Light they started immediately composing, recording and producing new and fresh music completely by themselves.

Their headquarters is the Magic Garden Studio where they can develop their skills and arts in the Liquid Rainbow sonic palette.

Let's say that the Rainbows are Friends, people that try without any commercial pressure or influence to make their own music, to experiment, to communicate through music and art.

Another characteristic of the band is the research for innovative sounds and effects, the love for electronic sound and for classical instruments, the melting of classic, pop and rock sounds with modern influences.

After making different songs they now jam in the Magic Garden Studios, recording the best parts with the inner exploration of new soundscapes. You can find out more about Liquid Rainbow on their website or check our their videos on their YouTube channel.

Stefano of Liquid Rainbow also runs the project Dubmaster Conte on Magnatune.


artist: Lisa DeBenedictis
description: lilting, textural alt-pop
homepage: debenedictis
state: NH
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/debenedicts.jpg
bio:
Lisa DeBenedictis is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and DIY producer. Classically trained on piano from a young age, she now plays a variety of instruments including keys, guitar, bass, violin, and mandolin.

With a vocal delivery that is at once sweet and dangerous, evocative, whimsical lyrics, and top notch musicianship she has earned comparisons to artists such as Suzanne Vega, Tori Amos, Kate Bush, Cat Power, Sarah McLachlan, and Annie Lennox.

In 2005, a set of Lisa's vocal samples was released on ccmixter.org for the Magnatune remix contest, and Lisa quickly went from a DIY bedroom recording artist to one of the most remixed vocalists around. She has strong connections with the remixing community and collaborates with other artists and bands around the world via the Internet.

She is now performing for live audiences in New England, as well as continuing to write and record new songs.

"...different and refreshing, without being pretentious."
- Jim Kloss, Whole Wheat Radio

"...deliciously innocent vocals...this could well be one of the best self produced albums ever..." (Tigers, 2005)
- Grant Robertson, "The Revolution"

"Whispery, seductive and yet somewhat innocent vocals that suck you into a world she has created just for your pleasure..."
- J.R. Oliver, EarCandyMag.com

"DeBenedictis is a distinctive musician crafting her own unique brand of haunting ballads and Tigers is artistic and emotional!"
- Laura Turner Lynch, Kweevak.com

A video entitled "The Caterpillar Lounge" with music by Lisa:

Music video for "Alternate World Waltz" :

Music video for "Tigers" :


artist: Lisa Lynne
description: Inspirational, uplifting, gentle, and soothing Celtic harp, World flutes, guitar and more.
homepage: lisa_lynne
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lisa_lynne_small.jpg
bio:
Lisa Lynne is a multi-instrumentalist and performer who has gained worldwide recognition for her original music featuring her Celtic Harp. She specializes in Traditional acoustic folk instruments and is widely acclaimed for composing memorable and heartwarming melodies that transcend category and genre.

From humble beginnings, Lisa has ascended the ladder of success to owning her own production company and recording studio. She has released several internationally recognized recordings on the prestigious Windham Hill and New Earth Record labels, while simultaneously running her own label Lavender Sky Music. After more than a decade of full time touring, recording and performing Lisa has surpassed one million in sales of her recordings.

Lisa has made numerous television and national radio appearances, including NBC, CNN, and Fox News Atlanta. She has been featured in multiple newspaper and magazine articles including Wall Street Journal who spotlight not only Lisa's groundbreaking work in therapeutic music programs, but her grass roots business savvy and innovative approach to life. Lisa's music is heard throughout the award winning PBS special "Alone in the Wilderness," amongst many other soundtracks for commercial television and independent films.

All of Lisa's recent album releases have placed in the top 20 of the Billboard music charts (Hopes and Dreams reaching #6) as well as holding top spots in the Celtic, New Age and world music radio airplay charts.

Lisa's year round touring schedule keeps her busy performing at festivals around the United States as well as concert dates with the Windham Hill tours. She divides her time between traveling and her home in California. She goes back and forth from San Francisco to Los Angeles where she is founder and director of "Harps for Hearts" an innovative music program that places live music and musicians in several California hospitals, including City of Hope National Cancer Center and several Kaiser Permanente locations. Lisa has received multiple grants and media recognition for her groundbreaking interactive "Hands-on-Harps" interactive programs. Lisa was recently chosen and one of LA's 50 most inspiring women by Los Angeles Magazine.

In addition, Lisa Lynne is active on the speaking and workshop circuit. Her inspiring storytelling presentations incorporate live harp music with her unique life experiences. This combination of enchanting life wisdom with clear planning guidance for "living your dream and making a difference," proves to be an uplifting and highly inspirational event.

In addition to her solo work, Lisa in involved in several joint partnerships on Magnatune as well, check out her music with George Tortorelli and Aryeh Frankfurter. [ADD HTML LINKS HERE]. George and Aryeh also play with Lisa in her group "Lisa Lynne and the Elfin Love Tribe" (which will be released on this solo page) along with Marla Fibish, an Irish mandolin virtuoso, Shelley Phillips who is well recognized harp, oboe and flutist and Tracy Grisman, the wife of David Grisman who played bass.

You can find out more about Lisa on her website.


artist: Lisa Lynne and George Tortorelli
description: Celtic harp and bamboo flutes. Soft and soothing, perfect for quiet times and relaxation
homepage: lynne_tortorelli
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lynne_tortorelli_new.jpg
bio:
Lisa Lynne and George Tortorelli have been duo partners since 1997 when they meet at an art fair in Orlando, Florida. George was primarily making flutes and selling them in his bamboo booth. They decided to play music together and it was a musical match made in heaven.

Lisa is a multi-instrumentalist and performer who has gained worldwide recognition for her original music featuring her Celtic Harp. She specializes in Traditional acoustic folk instruments and is widely acclaimed for composing memorable and heartwarming melodies that transcend category and genre.

Lisa is founder and director of "Harps for Hearts" an innovative music program that places live music and musicians in several California hospitals, including City of Hope National Cancer Center and several Kaiser Permanente locations. Lisa has received multiple grants and media recognition for her groundbreaking interactive "Hands-on-Harps" interactive programs. Lisa was recently chosen and one of LA's 50 most inspiring women by Los Angeles Magazine. 
Lisa also has a solo page on Magnatune and her other partnerships with Aryeh Frankfurter and the Elfin Love Tribe. [ADD HYPERLINKS IN HERE]

George is a master bamboo flute designer and player who lives in Gainesville, Florida. He has a beautiful house surrounded by an acre of bamboo forest. He is an expert in bamboo and has developed his flute designs in a workshop on his land. He is a multi-faceted musician in his own right and has been so all his life.

He plays all kinds of natural flutes, whistles and recorders, guitar, mandolin, percussion, pretty much anything he touches. He can sing like silk and writes beautiful songs about love and nature. He is regarded by all his fans and listeners as "Medicine Wind" as his music and concerts were so loved for the healing sound qualities of his peaceful gatherings. He started his own company called Medicine Wind, and commenced a successful recording career and custom flute design for fine arts festivals.

George and Lisa have been spellbinding audiences with their magical and endearing sound, performing non-stop thought the country, including the "Windham Hill Winter Solstice Concert" series. They are currently in high demand at the finest art exhibits and peace gatherings across the country and you can count on hearing much more from this enchanting duo and their heaven sent sound.


artist: Lizzi
description: groovy downtempo rock
homepage: lizzi
city: Stockholm
country: Sweden
bandphoto: /artists/img/lizzi1.jpg
bio:
There's both longing and loneliness in Lizzi's dark, sensual voice. Love and chill -- like the icy winter winds sweeping across her native island of Gotland in Sweden. "To be in love is a kind of isolation," she says. "It's not all happiness and joy: there's a lot of pain and emptiness too. But longing is also an incredible feeling, much under-valued today."

Growing up in a poor music-loving family of six children, Lizzi knows all about longing. "I was lucky," Lizzi says. "I was on friendly terms with the preacher. He let me use the village church to sing whenever I wanted." The mental image of a little girl singing her heart out -- alone in a vast, empty church in the dark of night -- still resonates through one's mind when listening to Lizzi's music today.

Lizzi started singing professionally in the synth band Houses & Gardens. "One of the band members heard me singing in the shower and thought I should have a go. Some of the other guys in the band thought I was too cheerful. I was prohibited to laugh during performances." She says synth-rock really wasn't her style but she did it because she loved to sing. "And I've always been a chameleon. It's taken me a long time to find my own voice."

In 1994, she released her first solo album, "Lizzie," for which she wrote most of the songs. "But that wasn't really me either, even though I believed so at the time. It didn't take very long to find out..."

Later, she spent two years singing with the Swedish avant-garde group, The Flesh Quartet. Working in The Flesh Quartet brought her together with producer Jacob Hellner. After having turned down one record company who wanted to morph her into a Swedish Kylie Minogue(!), Lizzi and Jacob decided to make her new album on their own. "I can't sell my soul. If I did I'd really be poor forever. I'd rather work petty day jobs as long as I can sing. Besides, I can only sing about things I've experienced - that's when it gets good."

The new album, "Love and you and I," is about uniting opposites -- staying and walking away, sadness and happiness -- and musically uniting the coldness of loops and computers with the warmth of real instruments. "The album is the story of a love affair -- from the beginning, through all the conflicting emotions to the not necessarily bitter end... Simplicity is the keyword, both musically and lyrically," Lizzi says.

Though she left Gotland long ago, the magic island is still in her blood. "When I sing my lyrics, it's as if I'm back there somehow. It's the same feeling I had when I lived there as a child -- the sunlight flooding sideways at dusk, like a flash of lightning racing through the landscape." Somehow, that feeling flows through her songs, too.

Ulf Ivarsson plays bass on Lizzi's "Love and you and I," and also has a solo project on Magnatune under the name "Beat Under Control."


artist: Logic Gate
description: dreamy ambient old school electronica
homepage: logicgate
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/logicgatephoto.jpg
bio:
Logic Gate is the project name for instrumental electronic music by Steve Grace.

Steve's initial interest in playing music was as a rock guitarist. He first became interested in instrumental music after hearing Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells. This interest intensified when Steve discovered the music of "Berlin School" electronic music pioneers Tangerine Dream and Klaus Schulze.

Steve's first synthesizer was a PAiA Gnome, built from a kit, and his interest in synthesizers has grown from there.

The music of Logic Gate combines Steve's interests in instrumental music and synthesizers.


artist: Loops For Licensing
description: instrumental samples in many genres
homepage: magnaloops
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/victor_new.jpg
bio:
Loops for Licensing is Magnatunes' series of albums featuring hundreds of high quality instrumental loops across many different genres. These loops make great background music for audio and video projects of any kind-anything that needs an instrumental music bed-and are also a great addition to any sound library.

To use any one of these loops in a project, you do need to purchase a license to use the music: simply click the "license" link on the album page, answer a couple of quick questions about your project, and you'll immediately get both a customized music license and access to the high quality audio files.

Want more information on music licensing at Magnatune? Go here.

Loops for Licensing series was compiled by Victor Stone, who has released several albums on Magnatune under the name Fourstones, contributing remix tracks to Lisa Debenedictis and Falik and produced The Sun Will Come Out to Blind You for c. layne. He is the lead programmer and administrator of the Creative Commons' remix community web site ccMixter, where you can find many Magnatune artists.


artist: LOOT
description: eclectic hip-hop fused with rock, pop, and soul
homepage: loot
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/loot.jpg
bio:
The stage lights dim while anticipation simmers through the crowd. Electric energy starts to build when the first beat drops and LOOT's impressive voice fills the venue. Rock n pop sounds rolled up with live instrumentation, dipped in new wave with a fat, dose of hip-hop at the heart of everything. A lone MC commands the crowd's attention as he rips into his first song. The audience is enraptured by LOOT's hypnotizing delivery. A true artist from head to toe, his dedication and drive are overwhelming.

Following his dream of being a dynamic talent, LOOT brings a lot more to the table than most of the generic, over commercialized artists currently topping the charts. LOOT's music is powerful enough to transform even the most prejudiced listener into an instant fan. He prides himself on creating songs that have something that speaks to everyone while remaining true to himself and his pure, rap roots.

LOOT grew up as the only child of a single Mom in the military so his residencies and travels in different parts of the world such as South Africa and the Philippines have also influenced his sound. From the inspirational, "Press On" to the autobiographical, "Before My Time", every record showcases his versatility. LOOT's life has always been interesting to say the least. While living in Japan he developed his rhyme persona and came up with the name "LOOT". Crisscrossing the globe has allowed him to fine tune his sound and now he's a force to be reckoned with that can blow any act off the stage and leave all crowds breathless.

LOOT's performance skills can't be denied, he has put in the work cutting his teeth on stages with prestigious artists (Talib Kweli, Little Brother, Kidz In The Hall, Joel Ortiz, Currensy, Big Daddy Kane, 8 Ball and MJG). He has rocked the mic in front of some of the toughest audiences at the legendary Apollo Theatre, Hot 97's Who's Next showcase for new artist at S.O.B.'s, SXSW in Austin, NXNE in Toronto, the Winter Music Conference in Miami and many others.

Now working on his debut project, LOOT and his music continue to evolve. His latest record describes meeting a woman so beautiful that she becomes his, "Kryptonite" featuring O'Neal McKnight.

The music industry is not for the faint of heart and it destroys lives as easily as it turns dreams into reality, but LOOT undoubtedly has what it takes to make it. His enormous talent combined with a stellar personality and fiery passion makes him stand out from all the other new artists. Daring to be different LOOT makes no apologies for making original music. Focusing on completing his debut album and making his presence felt, soon everyone will be talking about, listening too and loving LOOT.


artist: Louis Larouche
description: Baroque works on trumpet
homepage: louis_larouche
city: Levis
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/louis_larouche.jpg
bio:
Louis Larouche received a First Prize in Trumpet from the Quebec Conservatory of Music. Prizewinner of a Canadian Arts Council grant, he completed a degree at Boston University with Roger Voisin.

Louis has been featured on numerous recordings for CBC as a soloist and has toured in Canada, the U.S., Peru, and Chile.

Specialized in the repertoire for trumpet and organ, he performs frequently in jazz and popular venues. He also teaches classical and jazz trumpet. A composer, he has written over 30 pieces in different styles such as jazz, Latin, and fusion.

Louis' classical expertise does not prevent him from participating in jazz and popular musical Radio-Canada television broadcasts, often as guest soloist. He has accompanied artists of international reputation on stage and in recordings.


artist: Louis Lingg and the Bombs
description: punk rock to blow your head off
homepage: louis_lingg
city: Paris
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/louis_lingg_group.jpg
bio:
Louis Lingg and the Bombs are goddamn punk-rock-garage-pop-anarcho saviours of the 2 and half minute pop song. The bombs they throw are musical, they come from Paris (they could only come from Paris!) and they'll grab you and demand your instant attention.

Their sound is a mix of ultra-political anarchic punk rock and fizzing children's nursery rhyme riot-pop. Laced with so much energy and a whole sonic attack of chaos and fizzy energy, they throw a crazy live party. They could start a riot in a phone box and regularly blow up little bars with pop Molotovs and bang bang boom boom punk rock energy!

The group is named after Louis Lingg, the famous Chicago anarchist who committed suicide on death row in 1887 after the first May Day protests. Some of their songs are ultra-political anarchic punk rock and some are children's nursery rhyme riot-pop. ALL of their songs are full of fun-fun-fun pop hooks! Their music is 100% DIY and is mostly recorded in their bedrooms. Made with cheap instruments and broken computers, their records sound great. Homemade DIY music doesn't mean sub-standard. Their sound is a manic, punk rock explosion - a poppy riot starter.

The history
They finished their first 7 track CD EP in December 2006. (www.indiz.fr/louislinggandthebombs) They played lots of concerts all over Paris and France with loads of rocking bands, national and international.

In December 2007, their song, Chomsky changed my life, was on the PPP Zine / Generation Extreme compilation (France). www.generation-extreme.com/PPP/compil.html

In May 2009, they finished their new, full length album (18 songs!), Lullabies for Mutant Monkeys. Mastered in Brooklyn by Jon Cohrs from Spleenless mastering.

In October 2009, their song, La Menteuse, was featured on the Quite Useless Creative Commons Sampler alongside some great bands like Bomb the Music Industry! released by Heart Star Industries.

In January 2011, their song, Louis Lingg, Anarchist was featured on the first Ca Douille! CD compilation.

Also in 2011 their song, Going Nowhere Fast on the latest Ferme de la Justice 12 inch vinyl compilation.

Their music has been used extensively by film makers for film trailers, fashion videos, extreme sports, 2 animated films, kung fu film documentaries, computer game demos, car pimping films and more....

The line up
Josh (ex-Tchiki Boum, ex-In Vitro. Producer of Underground Railroad (one little indian) and King of Conspiracy) on Vocals and Guitar.
Axel Danger Tulip (from The No Flag Project) on Bass and Vocals.
Arno Life (ex-Les Versaillaise a moustache) on Guitar and Vocals.
Gilbertmuda (ex-The Troglodites, ex-Les Versaillaises a moustache) on Drums and Vocals.
Clem Phlegm (ex-Foxglove) on keyboards
Julie Hate (a great actress!) on vocals


artist: Love Amplifier
description: Lose yourself in the electronic
homepage: love_amplifier
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/love_amplifier_1.jpg
bio:
Love Amplifier is Charles William Carsten, a computer scientist and psychonaut currently living in Watts, Los Angeles, California.

Charles enjoys video games, conversation, and exploration of real and imaginary spaces. Charles may or may not be a massive internet troll in his free time.


artist: Luke Gartner-Brereton
description: music for minds
homepage: luke_gartner_brereton
city: Brisbane
country: Australia
bandphoto: /artists/img/luke_gartner_brereton.jpg
bio:
Luke Gartner-Brereton is an award-winning composer, instrumentalist and folk guitarist from Brisbane, Australia. "Classically-inspired, with folk and world influences," Luke's music relies heavily on the use of classical guitar layered throughout each song, both as a percussive and melodic device. The resulting music tends to blur traditional genres (blending classical tones with folk/Latin rhythms, and even blues), reflecting the composer's diverse musical background and tendency to employ strong melodic structures throughout the music.

Since commencing his solo career in 2011, Luke has written a series of instrumental albums with a strong Latin/world flavour, including Dream Baby Dream (2011), Serendipity (2011), Mucho Grande (2012) and Gypsy Moon Rising [2012]. In addition to this instrumental work, Luke also composes music for film, television and other media.

Luke's music relies heavily on the use of Spanish, nylon-string guitars, the ukulele, guitalele, and the Bolivian Ronroco (a 10 stringed Bolivian mandolin most notably used by Gustavo Santaolalla [Babel, Brokeback Mountain, The Motorcycle Diaries, The Last of Us]). This use of nylon-stringed instruments gives Luke's music a warm, spacious texture which can be dialled up for more passionate Latin tracks, and dimmed down for more reflective tracks.

You can find out more about Luke on his website.


artist: Lunar5
description: Music with real and strong emotions
homepage: lunar5
city: Trebova
country: Czech Republic
bandphoto: /artists/img/lunar5.jpg
bio:
The Lunar5 project was founded in 2007 by Czech producer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lukas Rufer.

Lunar5 music always tends to bring real emotions and feelings and mix a lot of different musical genres such as alternative pop, chillout, nujazz, acoustic, ambient, rock or even ethno together in natural way. Lunar5 songs are based on the soundpainting concept to create vivid musical backgrounds and atmospheres so the music draws you in.

Lunar5 key instruments are always electric guitar and bass, then vocals, samplers or grooveboxes and percussions. Special emphasis is placed on sound options. Lunar5 is used to trying many different sound effect units and mixing techniques, but always with a care to gain an organic feel with a touch of analog and vintage attitude. For that reason Lunar5 music is recorded independently in a dedicated home recording studio called Lunar Room. The result is a not too crystal clean, but top notch sound with atmosphere and authenticity.


artist: LVX Nova
description: frosty ambient with subtle acid jazz grooves
homepage: lvxnova
state: FL
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lvxnova.jpg
bio:
LVX Nova is the ambient/electronic duo of Bobby DeVito and Mike Meengs. Together, they blend luxurious electronic soundscapes with acid jazz sounds for a uniquely directional style of music that takes you to another place entirely. The band's self-titled album started off as a college thesis for guitarist DeVito, based on the progression of ambient/electronic music from its origins to the present. When DeVito teamed up with keyboardist Meengs (formerly with the Florida band Sonic Erotica), the project took a new turn and became its very own piece. DeVito's contributions on guitar to LVX Nova hearken back to Edgar Froese's work with Tangerine Dream, and his solo style is reminiscent of early David Gilmour.

In the summer of 1996, the due pressed 1,500 CDs and began to promote their new record. DeVito, a former BMG employee, used the Internet to promote the release and built an incredible number of underground contacts along the way. When Miramar signed the band in March of 1997 there was already quite an impressive archive of underground press they had garnered on their own.

Since then, the band has done remixes for a number of projects out of Europe and is currently working on a live performance to support the new release.

Band Members:
  * Bobby DeVito -- guitars, noises, and engineering/production
  * Mike "Sonic" Meengs -- all synths, samples, engineering, production, weird noises, random samples, lush washes, nearly everything but bobby d's parts
  * Brian Stevenson -- spoken word lyrics and vocals
  * Curtis H Hayes -- Producer and knob twirler for all guitar production and mixing, and a few odd noises
  * George Harris -- Panda Productions -- mastering and editing and guitar advice
  * Mark Prator -- Morrisound Studios -- final mastering and sweetening for the Miramar release
  * Tom Mehren -- A & R from Miramar, and his eyeball is on our album art
  * Michael Boydstun -- Video Director of the LVX NOVA video


artist: Lydia McCauley
description: intriguing piano compositions with dynamic accompaniment
homepage: lydia_mccauley
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lydia_mccauley.jpg
bio:
Lydia McCauley is a Contemporary Folk singer, pianist, and composer. Her passion, and the connection she makes with an audience are the winning features of her performance. Lydia's writing is personal and ultimately uplifting, displaying her commitment to providing music that enriches the human spirit.

"Lydia McCauley's music is therapy for the senses, its beauty soothes the soul"
- NPR Radio, WUKY - 91.3 FM

Born in Seattle and raised in the southeastern United States, Lydia grew up studying classical and contemporary music and later documented Appalachian Folk music at Berea College in Kentucky. This particular blend of training would influence Lydia's music style in the years to come. After teaching piano for eight years, Lydia's love of writing and arranging music propelled her into a career in professional music performance. She formed her own independent music label, Brimstone Music in 1995 and has released six full-length recordings that are distributed nationwide.

"McCauley composes New Age music without indulging in New Age cliches...this is a first rate production all the way."
- Victory Music

Lydia McCauley's music is heard on Sirius and XM Radio, Martha Stewart Living Radio, Jet Blue and Frontier Airlines, Musak, and many radio stations around the world.

She tours North America with her contemporary folk band GEOFFREY'S NEPHEW. Lydia also performs with Magnatune artist Jami Sieber and Nancy Rumbel in RIVER - a confluence of three extraordinary composers.

"This is the sixth release on my independent music label Brimstone Music. And it is the first all-instrumental album that I've recorded. The title, QUIETING, comes from what I was doing when the pieces came forward to present themselves.

Here is a journal entry from November 2004. It sets the tone for what was to come in both my life and my music. It's hard to tell when the beginning of a new project begins... but this must have been it."

QUIETING
Some days the woods are silent
with nothing to tell me,
minding their way, breathing their own breath
and some days they let me through the veil
there's an opening
and inside I go
inspirited
an elning
that's when the shadows cover the light
in deep browns
and golds make a path through the mosses
now the leaves are falling with the rain
so much golden stands of cottonwood
and birch has shimmered this week
so much cedar is gathering on the ground
and fir and cones
twigs
this woodland soil is even dry
these large living trees are
wondering about us
becoming very quiet
I would like to bound and leap
I would like to lift up my voice
I would like to come alive
but I am slowing with the sun
and waning like a moon
and quieting with the sap of the birch

You can find out more about Lydia's work and her band Geoffrey's Nephew on her website and MySpace page.


artist: LYNX and Janover
description: electro-acoustic in perfect accord
homepage: lynx_janover
state: CO
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/lynx_janover.jpg
bio:
After raging the North American festival circuit with the music from their album "Between Worlds" in summer 2009, LYNX and Janover have established themselves as pioneers of a unique brand of electro-acoustic music by creating a diversified harmonic blend of all original hip-hop and down-tempo electronica grooves with stellar song writing, guitar playing, beat boxing, rhyming, amplified mini-kit percussion and the unique sounds of the hammered dulcimer. Big warm bass and sophisticated beats combined with LYNX's incredible songwriting and Jamie Janover's melodic and percussive genius puts them in a league of their own.

LYNX is a Colorado born and raised singer-songwriter and beat-boxer with a great love of hip-hop and dubstep. Jamie Janover is a national hammer dulcimer champion who holds it down as one of the only hammer dulcimer players in the world to be totally immersed in electronica.

In less than two years, LYNX and Janover have played sold out shows from British Columbia, to Colorado and have played 20 festivals in each of the past two festival seasons including Rothbury, Shambhala, High Sierra, 10,000 Lakes, Harmony, Lightning in a Bottle, Symbiosis, the Earthdance hub event and many others.

Together LYNX and Janover have achieved the elusive perfect balance between the acoustic and the electronic, using today's most advanced technologies mixed with ancient live instrumentation to create a unified sound reflective of the polarized nature of our times.


artist: macabro
description: mechanical flowers under the electric sunset
homepage: macabro
city: Olaine
country: Latvia
bandphoto: /artists/img/macabro_2.jpg
bio:
macabro is an electronic music project from Latvia, founded in 2006. Born and raised in an industrial area - in a small city best known for its chemical factories macabro always tended to stick to Nature, in a way trying to escape from the reality. The music reflects all of this, drawing pictures of mechanised plants and flowers in listeners' minds, submerging them into the realm of artificial electrical winds.

While this kind of music is, of course, strictly underground, macabro has managed to find his audience in Latvia and neighbouring countries; he has also played several livesets in Latvia, Lithuania and Belarus, under the wing of latvian "elektronik noiz movement" STURM, which has been one of the most active subculture music movements in Latvia in the last 10 years.

It all began with the ordinary singing-songwriting, but the interest in electronic music soon took over. At first starting with harsher noisy sounds, the music became calmer and warmer as the time went on.

macabro experiments with field recordings and guitar sounds, whilst adding lots of synthesized drones and other samples, arranging it all into sophisticated sounding tracks with rather complex structure. Some of the newer works might even be considered as guitar ambient, although guitar sound is fairly modified, sometimes to an unrecognizable degree.

The latest album Envelopes draws influences from both (neo-)classical music and modern electronic glitch-sound material.


artist: Machines in Transit
description: pop-electronica from the embassy
homepage: machines_in_transit
state: MN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/machines_in_transit.jpg
bio:
Machines in Transit is an electronica duo from Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Brent Meyer -
(synths/programming/production); and
Todd Lester -
(synths/programming/drums)
played in traditional rock bands together in the 90s.

After Y2K scared them straight, they decided to experiment with electronica together and see where the road took them. Drawing from influences such as Imogen Heap, Royksopp, Thomas Dolby and Booka Shade, the duo set out to write electronic compositions, but keeping in mind pop songwriting sensibility.

The pair soon realized their ideas needed vocals. They approached singers over the Internet, and managed to find collaborators from Sweden, Germany and Boston. In the end, we hope people dig it. We can't ask for anything more than that.

For more on Machines in Transit, please visit their website.


artist: Made of Wood
description: Groove laden chillout funk
homepage: made_of_wood
state: NM
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/made_of_wood.jpg
bio:
Dan Waldman, the artist behind Made of Wood, starting playing the piano when he was 5. His teacher wrote in an Aquaman notebook.

Today Dan is an accomplished producer, pianist and composer, having performed both solo and with bands in the Boston, Albuquerque and Baltimore/Washington areas. His music has been featured in various media, from album compilations to TV and web/terrestrial radio stations.

In 2010, Dan created Made of Wood, a chillout funk project. The music is created using a range of acoustic and electronic, live and sampled sounds. Many of the sampled sounds come from alterations of his own performances.

The inspirations for the sounds are wide-ranging: from Thievery Corporation and Massive Attack, to the Meters, Parliament Funkadelic, Radiohead and Air. Dan also draws from his classical background and classic film composers, such as Lalo Schifrin.

In Feb 2012, Dan released The Chill/Funk Trip. The album has led to Made of Wood being a "Top 10 Emerging Artist," (jango.com) and the album has received glowing reviews. Currently he is working on "Narcotherapy Hypnosis," an album that fuses the styles of the 60's and 70's with trippy old-school synth sounds and modern percussion.

Dan currently lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.


artist: Magic Carpet
description: discover a rich tapestry of world grooves
homepage: magic_carpet
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/magic_carpet.jpg
bio:
MAGIC CARPET: Acoustic, living music for reflection and discovery - Magic Carpet takes flight with extended improvisations over original and traditional compositions. Turkish and Greek melodies mingle with Spanish bulerias and Cuban rhythms. Indian ragas and Middle Eastern grooves weave into a rich musical tapestry. With roots in traditional music from around the world, the two musicians draw inspiration from their shared connection and their environment, to reveal music of the moment.

ANNETTE BAUER, a native of Germany, has a dual background in both early music and the classical music of North India. She studied medieval and renaissance music at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Basel, Switzerland, and holds an MA in music from UC Santa Cruz with a focus on the performance of classical North Indian music. She has been studying sarode, a 25-stringed instrument at the Ali Akbar College of Music under her teacher Maestro Ali Akbar Khan since 1998. As a recorder player, Annette is a member of Canconier medieval music ensemble, Baroque ensemble Les graces, Farallon recorder quartet, and has performed and taught at leading early music festivals and workshops around the country. Two of her main musical passions are the art of modal improvisation and the study of medieval notation sources. Certified in Orff Schulwerk, she teaches recorder pedagogy to music teachers at the San Francisco Orff Certification Course. Annette also plays Brazilian percussion with Maracatu Luta, and has studied Maracatu and other rhythms from the Brazilian Northeast with groups in Recife, Brazil, and at the annual California Brazil Camp.

RACHAEL BOUCH-DIMONDSTEIN has been teaching and performing for the past ten years. Multi-percussionist, she plays drum set, congas, timbales and cajon and is well versed in various musical styles. Having studied extensively in Cuba and Spain, she specializes in Cuban Son/Salsa and Flamenco. Rachael has performed and led workshops throughout the United States, as well as in Mexico, Cuba, Spain and Austria. She performs regularly with flamenco fusion trio 'LoCura!'. Certified in Orff Schulwerk (an integrated method for teaching the creative arts to children), Rachael currently teaches music in schools, as well as private lessons, to students of all levels and ages.


artist: Magnatune Compilation
description: the best music from Magnatune
homepage: compilation
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/compilation_photo.jpg
bio:
These compilation disks unite the best songs from our artists for each of Magnatune's musical genres.


artist: Magnatune Remixed
description: Four Stones' Magnatune remix project
homepage: magnatune_remixed
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/victor_bw.jpg
bio:
Magnatune Remixed is a project overseen by producer Victor Stone specifically for Magnatune. Ridin the Faders 2 is a high energy blast of beats, voices and tones featuring hundreds of samples from the Magnatune catalog. Producers Pat Chilla the Beat Gorilla and lo tag blanco join Victor on RTF2 mashing together rock, hip hop, world, opera, jazz and classical into a funky stew of hot virtual wax.

Victor has released several albums on Magnatune under the name fourstones, contributing remix tracks to Lisa Debenedictis and Falik and produced The Sun Will Come Out to Blind You for c. layne. He is the lead programmer and administrator of the Creative Commons' remix community web site ccmixter.org where you find many Magnatune artists.

It was on ccMixter that Victor befriended musician, producer and DJ Pat Chilla the Beat Gorilla after Pat's remix won the WIRED Remix Contest held on that site. Pat founded Run Off Records and his music can be heard on US TV shows such as Last Comic Standing and America's Next Top Model. His remix of Lisa Debenedictis "Brilliant Day" was used as the soundtrack for the infamous lonelygirl15 video which garnered over half a million downloads. RTF 2 includes a remastered version of "Brilliant Daze (Days are Confused Mix)" as well as several other original contributions by Pat.

lo tag blanco is an artist and musician in New York and a veteran of the online remix community. His stand out work on ccMixter quickly got the attention of Victor and Pat. Working remotely, lo tag contributed several memorable beats for RTF 2, most notably for "Curl My Cranium" and "We Are Not Evil."

Clarance Boddyker is a New York rapper/comedian from the South Bronx. He has recorded rap projects in New York City, Australia and the Philippines. His highly personal, high energy style has made him one of the most remixed artists on ccMixter and was the first choice for the producers when looking for a custom rap for RTF 2. His authorship and performance of "We Are Not Evil" makes it obvious it was the right choice.


artist: MAKO
description: soul searching Irish/French indie rock
homepage: mako
city: Kerry
country: Ireland
bandphoto: /artists/img/mako.jpg
bio:
MAKO signals the re-emergence of Declan O'Shea and Christian Montagne, both former members of acclaimed band Cyclefly, onto the music scene. During their time with the alternative rock band Cyclefly, Declan (vox) and Christian (bass guitar) toured throughout America and Europe with bands such as Linkin Park, Iggy Pop, Live, and Bush. The band also garnered places on the 'Best New Artist' lists of NME, Rock Sound, and Kerrang!

For the past two years Declan, a singer-songwriter from East Cork, and Christian, a songwriter-guitarist from Antibes, have concentrated all their energies on MAKO. While their new project retains the slightly edgy alt-rock sound that gathered so many fans for Cyclefly, it also possesses a more mellow maturity reflecting Declan and Christian's growth as songwriters and musicians.

Declan's voice, which has been compared to people such as Bowie, Richard Butler (Psychedelic furs), and Annie Lennox, permeates MAKO'S unforgettable lyrics in a charismatic and evocative manner. For the recording of their debut album, the band returned to Christian's native Antibes on the Cote D'Azur. MAKO flawlessly encapsulates the musical development of the two artists who have combined raw talent with past experience.

The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences placed Mako on the Official Ballot for the 2011 Grammy Awards in the following categories:

Best Rock Performance By A Duo or Group with Vocals Mako - Unstoppable
Best Rock Song Mako - Miss Alison
Best Rock Album Mako - Living On Air
Best Short Form Music Video Mako - Unstoppable

Check our their video for Unstoppable below and catch up on the latest via their website.


artist: Mandrake Root
description: classic progressive hard rock with catchy riffs
homepage: mandrake_root
city: Linnegatan
country: Sweden
bandphoto: /artists/img/mandrake1.jpg
bio:
Mandrake Root- Biography and Retroperspective

1980- 1983

A version of Beatles "Eleanor Rigby" and 4 original songs by David were recorded at Radio Kronoberg Studio. an "Exits version" of Eleanor Rigby was aired on the local radio station several times. About 10-12 gigs were performed.

Two original songs by David were recorded in Stockholm for a Compilation album called "Rock beast". The Album contained several rock groups from Sweden.

One of the songs included in the compilation album written by David called "Lost Woman" won a radio contest for best song in the local area, the song was then aired on the national Swedish Radio during the fall of 1982.

1984-1992

In 1986: 5 new original songs by David were recorded in the new "Radio Kronoberg" studio.

In 1987: 5 new original songs by David were recorded in the new "Radio Kronoberg " studio

Two radio programmes followed these sessions where the songs were aired together with interviews.

Two songs by David "Things will never be the same again" and "Sudden changes" are frequently played on the radio during 1986.

1988: A 20 year anniversary Deep Purple party is taking place, Pyramid performs many Deep Purple songs in the evening. About 350 people attends the event, people are coming from Scandinavia. After the concert people are so excited by Pyramids performance that it creates a bit of a chaos in a positive way though..... David even smashes up his first electric guitar in pieces to the audiences cheer.......

The Deep Purple parties then becomes regular annual events for five years ahead until 1992.

1989 an original song by David called "Straight from my heart" is recorded and a video is made as well. The song is played frequently on local radio stations during 1989, and the video is shown on local and national television.

1992

David creates his new group together with singer Per Englund (fomer singer in the group Blacksmith)

The band now consists of :
David Braic: Guitar
Per Englund: Vocals
Tommy Braic: Bass guitar
Staffan Stavert: Keyboard
Stefan Nilsson: Drums

During the fall of 1992 two original songs by David (music) and Per (lyrics) called "Crazy little lover" and "Lonely man's day" are recorded as demos in Kristianopel in the Pama recording studio.

Now a more "serious" musical relationship evolves... featuring:

David Braic as music writer, Per Englund as Lyricist, Magnus "Mankan" Sedenberg from PAMA recording studio as engineer and producer Magnus "Maxe" Axelsson as executive producer of PAMA recording studio...

1993

David writes the music for 5 original songs. Per Englund writes lyrics and recording begins in the PAMA recording studio during the beginning of 1993.

The session results in a Promotional CD called "Waves in motion"

The album consists of the following tracks:
1. Inside Information
2. Speed Trippin'
3. Waves in motion
4. Strange walking
5. March of the immaculate

The album "Waves in motion" is well received in Japan and approx: 3000 copies are sold.

The album is also reviewed in the Japanese magazine "BURRN" and gets 85 points out of 100 !! In Sweden and in Europe about 2000 copies are sold and the album is reviewed in several Swedish magazines and in the english magazine KERRANG as well.

The song "Inside Information" is frequently played on radio and even reaches local charts in Norway ! A video of "Inside Information" is made containing footage of the band joking around the area of castle Teleborg and Kronoberg Castle ruin.

1994

Mandrake Root signs a record deal with XERO Corporation in Japan.

Recording sessions begins in PAMA Recording studios, David writes 10 new original songs for the forthcoming album....The album is completed during July 1994 and contains 13 songs.

The album "Tales of the sacred" is released in late september 1994 and about 5000 copies are sold initially in Japan.

1995

New member drummer Hempo Hilden joins Mandrake Root,

Hempo is a well known drummer and has played with band such as, Pugh Rogefeldt, John Norum, Glenn Hughes to name a few...

David writes 4 new original songs and makes an own arrangement of the song "You keep me hangin' on" for a possible subsequent new album. Recording sessions start in Pama recording studios during february 1995. The sessions results in raw mixes of the following songs:

1. Running wild river
2. Feed me anger
3. Build and Burn
4. Love is blind
5. You keep me hangin' on

Feed me anger and You keep me hangin' on are filmed by Swedish Televison TV4 in the TV studio. You keep me hangin on is used as a whole video, while clips of Feed me anger are used together with interviews with bandmembers. The complete programme is shown on swedish television and You keep me hangin on is shown several times on both local and national Swedish TV.

Mandrake Root is the supporting band for Yngwie Malmsteen in Vaxjo november 1995.

European version of the Album "Tales of the sacred" is released.

Some songs from the Japanese version are omitted and replaced by other songs, the European version is also remixed.

Mandrake Root supports Glenn Hughes on his Swedish tour in november 1996.

Concerts are performed in Borlange, Gothenburg, Stockholm, Uppsala and Malmo.

Onwards......

Mandrake Root plays whenever opportunities shows up......


artist: Maneli Jamal
description: east through to west acoustic guitar
homepage: maneli_jamal
city: Toronto
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/maneli_jamal.jpg
bio:
Maneli Jamal is a solo acoustic guitarist, offering a new perspective on approaching the acoustic guitar with influences from both the east and west combined. Having dedicated himself to the exploration of acoustic guitar technique, Maneli has developed his own sound. Folk, Flamenco, and Persian modes combine with his own percussive technique creating a rich and unique voice on the guitar.

Persian by blood and raised in Germany, Maneli moved to the States in his adolescence, immigrating to Minnesota before relocating to Austin, Texas until his late teens. At this time, his family was issued a letter of deportation by the immigration office, and were forced to claim refuge in Canada within thirty days of receiving the notice. Taking literally only what they could fit in their hands, Maneli arrived in Toronto with his guitar which has scarcely left his hands since.

Having lived in 4 different countries and moved 20 times by the time he was 18, Maneli has let his experiences around the world influence the way he speaks with the guitar.

Maneli received first place in the online YouTube acoustic guitar competition for Taylor guitars and Faith Guitars, placed in the finals for Guitar Idol 2009, has released his debut album featuring 14 tracks of all original compositions, and is endorsed by Cole Clark guitars.


artist: Mantic
description: minimal techno.
homepage: mantic
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/darin.jpg
bio:
Darin Marshall, founder of the influential electronic label Belief Systems Recordings and Belief Systems artist on Magnatune.com, reinvents himself as Mantic.

Growing up in San Diego, Darin was immersed in the early electronic sounds of Depeche Mode, Kraftwerk, Cabaret Voltaire, and NIN and was first exposed to Acid House in the late 80s. This early exposure through the record stores and clubs of San Diego, combined with an interest in electronic music production, led Darin to move to the Bay Area in 1990 and take a job at Opcode Systems, a pioneering technology company responsible for many advances in the music production realm.

In the Bay Area, Darin pursued his passion for electronic dance music and began DJing in the energetic clubs and underground parties of the early 90's in San Francisco and the Bay Area.

In 1995, Darin Marshall and Graeme LaPaix released The Nocturnal EP as The Robbers of Antiquity, launching Belief Systems as a record label along with it, and introduced a sound they would continue to refine with the follow up release on Mixman Records, "Phosphene Dream". Later, prolific Florida-based DJ and producer Noel Sanger remixed and re-released the original version of "Frequency Puzzle" from the Robbers of Antiquity Nocturnal EP on Washington DC's Music Now Records in 2001.

Belief Systems Recordings continued to define its unique sound contributing a unique California twist to the minimal techno and IDM genres with the Swivel EP release. This groundbreaking release featured Seth "Sutekh" Horvitz, Erin Krasovich and one song by Darin Marshall as himself called "BeatBox." Belief Systems went on to help launch Warp recording artist Stewart Walker, with the 12" pressing of the Jetfuel and Longing EP on Belief Systems Recordings.

As a follow up to the Swivel EP, Darin wrote and produced his first official 12" release of an electro cut under the pseudonym Ibid - "Prolix" on the Exact Science SF Bass Volume 1 Compilation. Continuing to push the electro sound, Darin collaborated with Vic Shukla as DiViD, remixing "Abstract Power" by San Francisco's electro stalwarts Cybrid in 2004.

Darin also co-wrote and co-produced several releases and singles with Jon Williams of Organised Noise under the name User, before moving on to produce the digital albums EPROMs and Eponyms, currently available on Magnatune.com.

Darin Marshall's forthcoming third release on Magnatune.com Epigrams brings together a selection of remastered classic tracks never before available in digital format. Darin is also releasing updated versions of his previous Magnatune collections, featuring remastered productions of all the original cuts and additional bonus tracks for each album. All re-releases include new artwork featuring Darin Marshall's own photography and artwork designs.

Darin continues to tweek his unique musical alchemy techniques within the cavernous walls of the Vulcan Foundry Studios, an artist live/work space in East Oakland's Fruitvale district.


artist: Manuel Ochoa
description: jazz and tango from where else, Argentina
homepage: manuel_ochoa
city: Buenos Aires
country: Argentina
bandphoto: /artists/img/manuel_ochoa.jpg
bio:
Manuel Ochoa is a professional pianist and composer from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He studied piano with a number of great pianists in Buenos Aires and New York.

Manuel is very active in the music scene of Argentina and is working on many jazz and tango projects. He has released two albums as a leader and many as a co-leader, and has worked on a number of documentary projects.

Manuel's music is elegant and forceful and he has a very personal sound on the instrument. His compositions are for acoustic instruments like double bass, trumpet, saxophone and drums.


artist: Marcos H Bolanos
description: atmospheric, instrumental soundtracks for daydreaming
homepage: marcos_h_bolanos
city: Barcelona
country: Spain
bandphoto: /artists/img/marcoshbolanos.jpg
bio:
Marcos H. Bolaños

Born not long ago on the island of Gran Canaria (Spain) and currently based in Barcelona, film composer and producer Marcos H. Bolaños has a long love story with music. He started playing piano at the young age of 6 and hasn't stopped making music ever since.

After having been part of several bands and music projects in Spain and Germany, playing bass, guitar, drums and keyboards, this multi instrumentalist and multifaceted musician started creating music for media around 2010. Since then, he has composed the soundtracks for several short films, a feature film, several commercials and various TV Series from all around the world.

Marcos B. Bolaños' music has been licensed by National Geographic, Discovery Channel, TEN (Australia), Comedy Central, A&E, Sport 1 (Germany), or Channel 4 (UK) among others, and has worked for clients such as Best At Travel, Movistar, Rìu Hotels, etc.

He has published several instrumental albums and an original soundtrack.

Eme Hache

Multi instrumentalist producer based currently in Barcelona, Eme Hache is the alter ego of Spanish film composer Marcos H. Bolaños, who wants to approach electronic music going against its defining foundation: repetition.

That's why he feels especially comfortable with organic electronic styles such as house, dance or nu-disco, adding elements from originally free genres like jazz or indie music.

Born on Gran Canaria Island (Spain) in the 80's, the decade which witnessed the explosion of the electronica genre, Eme Hache also brings a vintage element to his music. Having been also part of several music projects with different styles such as rock, pop or funky, playing keyboards, bass, guitars and drums, versatility and an organic feel are the final touches to Eme Hache's especial music tasty sauce.


artist: Margaret Maria Tobolowska
description: Sweeping new age cello
homepage: margaret_tobolowska
city: Ontario
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/margaret_tobolowska.jpg
bio:
Margaret Maria is a dynamic, versatile, and multi-faceted artist. Not only does she perform as a solo recitalist and chamber musician, Margaret Maria is passionate about teaching and working with cellists of all ages, at all stages.

Born in Toronto, Margaret Maria began playing the cello at the age of twelve and was admitted to the University of Toronto when she was sixteen. She received her Bachelor of Music in Performance in 1992 and continued, on full scholarship at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia (class of '94). A former member of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the National Arts Center Orchestra, Margaret is passionate about teaching and has given master classes in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. She has taught at the University of Ottawa and at the National Arts Center's Summer Music Institute and currently teaches at Carleton University and at the National Capital Suzuki School of Music.

In September 2011, Margaret Maria resigned from her professional job as cellist with the National Arts Centre Orchestra to follow her dream of composing and producing her own music. Enchanten Productions proudly released 'Enchanten' in June 2012 which received a 55'th Grammy Entry Nomination in 2013 and her much anticipated new album 'Enchanten Rising' was just released in June 2013. Margaret Maria is working in the contemporary New Age/Instrumental/Cinematic genres, to create a unique and glorious new sound through her composing, playing and producing.

As teaching and children are at the heart of Margaret's work, she co-founded and is the Artistic Director of The Leading Note Foundation's OrKidstra Youth Music Program, which provides music opportunities to children who would otherwise not have the opportunity. In April 2012, Margaret Maria was a recipient of the Leading Women Building Communities Award by the Government of Ontario for her work in the Ottawa community and was also recognized as a Kick Ass Canadian!

You can find out more about Margaret on her website.


artist: Marginal Prophets
description: smart-alecky, 'semi-conscious' hip-hop
homepage: marginal_prophets
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/marginal_prophets.jpg
bio:
The Marginal Prophets are a 5-piece Hip-Hop/Garage band from San Francisco that brilliantly combine odd samples, funk/rock riffs, and decidedly non-traditional b-boy lyrics into a smart-alecky punk-rap mix that appeals to anyone who came of age back in the day when college radio actually mattered.

When Jeff Kramer ("the Jewish one") hooked up with Keith Knight ("the Black one"), The Marginal Prophets were born. Upon meeting in a comic book shop, the two future rappers discovered that in addition to their mutual love of comic books, cartoons and animation, they shared a deep feeling for hip-hop. Both had previously been in bands-Keith in high-energy funk outfit Butt'er Crunch, and Jeff in New York hardcore punk group Stisism. Each longed to be on stage again, but it took a little persuading for Keith (a successful comic strip writer and artist) to add performing into his already busy cartooning schedule , yet eventually he gave in.

Adopting the personas of K-Squared and The Noble Def G, Keith and Jeff began writing lyrics in earnest and were eventually joined by bass player Adam Lodge, drummer Adam Lipsky, and guitarist Jeff Ranney. Together, the band has taken its show up and down the West Coast and beyond, opening for Black Eyed Peas, Spearhead, Fishbone, G Love & Special Sauce, Insolence, and De La Soul, as well as headlining many shows of their won.

The eMPee's self-released debut CD, Twist the Nob sold 20,000 copies and was selected one of 1997's 10 best albums by the San Jose Metro, and one of the Top 100 Indie Releases of the year by PULSE! Magazine. Their second studio full-length, Bohemian Rap CDrecently won a 2004 California Music Award for Outstanding Rap Album.


artist: Mark Cook
description: blues guitar legend in the making
homepage: mark_cook
state: GA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mark_cook_new.jpg
bio:
Mark Cook (guitarist/producer) resides in Atlanta, GA. He has been a musician most of his life, starting by playing the guitar at the age of 15 and forming a career as both a musician and a guitar teacher in 1985. He feels very fortunate that he has been able to make a living at doing something he loves - playing AND making music!

Mark has always been interested in writing his own songs and now has 4 albums containing all original material. Mark has had some recent placements in TNT network's "Saving Grace" (two episodes) starring Holly Hunter, "Without a Trace", "Eastwick", MTV's "Camped Out", ABC's family channel - "Kyle XY", and ABC's "Lost". Movie placements include: "Buried Alive" 2007 starring Tobin Bell, "Bad Lieutenant" starring Nicholas Cage and Val Kilmer, "Free Runner", and "I Melt With You" starring Rob Lowe.

Mark has had the pleasure to work some great talent. Some of the finest musicians out of Atlanta have contributed their talents on his album "Blue Voodoo." Musicians such as Larry Griffith, Sam Skelton, Andrew Black, Lola Gulley, Sean O'Rourke, Bobby Mobley, Heaven Davis, Joey Huffman, etc., have all contributed.

Some of Mark's accolades over the years include: FOUR times winner of the JPFolks Music Awards - held each year in Los Angeles CA. Three of his albums, "An Evening with the Blues," "Promise Highway," and "Blue Voodoo," have all won "Best Blues Album of the Year" award for 2001, 2002, and 2006 respectively. The title track of "Blue Voodoo" went on to win "Best Rock Instrumental of the Year". Winning these awards was an extreme honor as there were over 350,000 entries from over 100 countries.

His albums have been reviewed in magazine publications such as: GUITAR PLAYER, VINTAGE GUITAR, RECORDING MAGAZINE, BLUES REVUE, etc., as well as several on-line music sites. Mark continues to perform around the Atlanta area as well as the midwest with his two bands - "Cook-N-Blues" and "Blind Spot". For up and coming gig information, visit Mark on his website.


artist: Mark Preston
description: Uplifting Electronica and Melodic Soundscapes
homepage: mark_preston
state: PA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mark_preston_1.jpg
bio:
Residing on Boston's North Shore, twenty-five year old composer Mark Preston creates a refreshing brand of uplifting mid-tempo grooves and melodic soundscapes. As a self-taught musician, he works viscerally-driven only by an ear that enjoys Stravinsky as much as the Fugees, and Sigur Ros as much as Tom Petty.

A drummer in rock and jam bands throughout high school and college, Mark put down his sticks when he met a Boston-based Zouk and Compas producer who used software programs to create beats. After sitting in on hours of the producer's studio sessions, Mark found he could use similar tools to create the kinds of sounds he loved.

With a laptop, Propellerhead Reason software, and a small keyboard, Mark composed in his bedroom studio. Shortly thereafter, Mark was awarded a four-month residency at the Contemporary Music Center on the island of Martha's Vineyard. Mark originally attended the Center to focus on drumming; however, he decided to use the opportunity to develop his new interests in writing and producing instrumental music. The product of Mark's work was his first album, ...and it will rise with the sun.

Featured on the nationally syndicated Echoes Radio Program and podcasts around the world, ...and it will rise with the sun was self-released in February of 2007. Since then, Mark has licensed his music to national and international clients including MTV, Nickelodeon, and Sony Computer Entertainment.

Mark's latest album, Nature and Design, was self-released in September of 2010, and was selected as the Echoes CD of the Month in November of 2010.

Outside the studio, Mark can be found enjoying the great outdoors, running, and researching auditory perception and processing at the University of Massachusetts.


artist: Mark Southeron
description: Led Zeppelin meets Underworld
homepage: mark_southeron
city: Sydney
country: Australia
bandphoto: /artists/img/mark_southeron_new_small.jpg
bio:
Sydney born producer, songwriter and musician Mark Southeron brings an eclectic mix of styles to the fore. Mark worked with his friends Brett Lee and Hayden Turner as guitarist, songwriter and programmer in Aussie bands The Story and Field of Mars in the late 80's and early 90's.

His love for producing music began as a teenager listening to Yello records and writing and recording tunes with his school friend Todd Emslie on a Boss D110 drum machine, Korg Poly 800 and a guitar. His sound would best be described as Dance / Electronic but scratching under the surface however you'll find he's more than adept at traversing the Industrial, House, Drum and Bass and Rock flavours in sound. A theme that is being used more on recent productions is the use of heavy guitar sounds over electronic dance beats.

As well as film tracks and a huge list of remixes for established artists and labels, including Ted Mulry, The Atlantics, Atlas, Stella One Eleven, Gilli Moon and great labels such as Kult Records, Mark's most recent project has been a collection of very well received lounge tracks recorded with his long time friend Hayden Turner and released under the moniker of Tokyo507.


artist: Marker Beacon
description: Modern Heavy Metal
homepage: marker_beacon
city: Wasquehal
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/marker_beacon.jpg
bio:
Marker Beacon is a french melodic heavy metal band formed in 2000 and composed of Bruno Creuzet (guitar and vocals), Miguel Diaz (drums), Olivier Matz (guitar) and Jerome Thiebaut (bass guitar).

All the members are classically trained, and have been together since high school. The main influences of Marker Beacon are Metallica and Iron Maiden although other bands from different styles from rock to extreme metal also inspired their music. With powerful riffs, carefully elaborated melodies and technical guitar solos, Marker Beacon stays in the tradition of heavy metal bands while adding a touch of modernity.

In 2012, Marker Beacon became a non-profit organization that campaigns for free culture. The first album "Dead Frequencies" took over 2 years and is released under the Creative Commons BY-SA 3.0 license but as a Magnatune member you can of course download it here!

You can find about more about the band on their website.


artist: Marko Nouwens
description: classical piano sonatinas for students
homepage: nouwens
city: Eikangervag
country: Norway
bandphoto: /artists/img/nouwens.jpg
bio:
After his studies in Holland with J. De Tiege and in Norway with J. Hlinka, Nouwens has been concertising extensively as a soloist and is also a renowned chamber musician. In addition, he has been teaching the piano in his private studio in Norway, where he currently resides.
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About the music:

The main reason for me to record these pieces, is simply because I like them! I like playing them and I like listening to them. The joy of playing this uncomplicated, fun, uplifting music comes very much through in this recording, I think. It was great fun to prepare these pieces, it was thrilling to record them, and still, when I listen to the recording, I get in a very good mood. The recording was done in one afternoon and very much like a concert, without second takes and virtually no editing - I wanted the recording to be as fresh as possible. Although these pieces are thought of as being easy, a lot of them are actually quite challenging like the 4th and the 5th sonatinas by Clementi.

While preparing for the recording, I inevitably had to think back to my childhood when I was an aspiring, young piano student. My teacher had me play the sonatinas by Clementi and I got to know these very well. Most of them I liked very much, but not everyone! The worst one was actually the second: I think I had to play it for a long time - maybe too long - before I got it right, because I remember starting to dislike the piece. Some of those feelings might still be there: it was actually the only piece in the recording that needed some editing...

As a piano student, I never played the sonatinas by the other composers; after Clementi it was straight to the sonatas by Beethoven. Of course, I had heard some of the movements on student concerts, but I was very thankful to get to know them by teaching them myself to my own pupils.

Jan Ladislav Dussek (1760-1812), Muzio Clementi (1752-1832) and Friedrich Daniel Rudolf Kuhlau (1786-1832), as they are pictured on the beautiful drawing by the dutch artist G. Ong, lived all in the same period, the early days of the piano and all three had great influence on the music of later pianists. These composers led interesting and often adventurous lives: Clementi was bought by an Englishman from his parents and moved from Italy to London, where he had great artistically and financial succes; Dussek was accused of involvement in a plot to assassinate Catherine the Great from Russia, and had to flee from St. Petersburg; and Kuhlau, who lost his right eye when he was 7-years old, fled to Danmark after Napoleon invaded Germany!

These composers were also great teachers and wrote a lot of music for educational purposes. One reason why this music is still popular, almost two hundred years later, is because of the high quality of the music. The fast movements are fun to play and to listen to, the slower movements are very beautiful. Even though they are written for children, some of the (especially) slower movements show real depth and could have been used in music for adults.

I hope that you will enjoy listening to this music as much as I enjoyed playing it!


artist: Maryse Carlin
description: crisp, dynamic harpsichord
homepage: maryse_carlin
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mcarlin.jpg
bio:
As harpsichordist and fortepianist, Maryse Carlin has collaborated with conductors such as Raymond Leppard, Leonard Slatkin and Roger Norrington, and has performed at the Marlboro Music Festival, the Blue Hill Chamber Music Festival, and the Castle Hill Early Music Festival, as well as the Lincoln Center's Mozart Bicentennial celebration.

Ms. Carlyn was awarded a grant to record works of Francois Couperin by the The Harpsichord Music Society, which sponsored her performance of his works at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall. She has just completed a recording of harpsichord works by Rameau and Forqueray as well as four-hands music by Schubert on the fortepiano with her husband, Seth Carlin. Ms. Carlin holds degrees from the Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris and the University of Paris. She is on the faculty of Washington University's Department of Music.


artist: Massimo DeAngelis
description: original jazz fusion with hints of rock, classical and Latin music
homepage: massimo_deangelis
state: NJ
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/massimo_deangelis.jpg
bio:
Massimo DeAngelis is a self-taught drummer and keyboardist who plays in various styles and genres across the musical spectrum, favoring high-energy jazz fusion. Born and raised in "the Eternal City" of Rome, Italy, he began playing at the age of twelve, and has performed with many groups throughout the country, including "I Percussionisti di Roma", a percussion ensemble. Also, he has taken part in several European jazz festivals throughout his career.

Since emigrating to the United States in 1986, Massimo has been performing and recording with numerous bands. After having taught privately for several years, he has now started focusing his energies on composing, arranging, and recording.

Describing his music and drumming style as "̷0; an attempt to bring the listener's awareness to a higher level̷0; ", he wants his music to fill the many musical voids that exist around us. His writing is a fusion of all his musical experiences and influeces. He draws his inspiration from surrealism, along with a basic, but critical ingredient: improvisation.


artist: Matsuishi Takashi Fritz
description: Flautists with finesse, intelligence and grooves
homepage: matsuishi_takashi_fritz
city: Hokkaido
country: Japan
bandphoto: /artists/img/matsuishi_takashi_fritz.jpg
bio:
Matsuishi Takashi Fritz was born in Tokyo in 1964 and now lives in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan. He studied flute privately with Ichinohe Atsushi, the principal flautist of Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra and former student of Wolfgang Schulz (principal flautist, Vienna Philharmonic). Fritz was also taught by Nakayama Koichi, the last student of the highly regarded Swiss teacher Andre Jaunet; and later by Paul Meisen and Andrea Griminelli in masterclasses.

Fritz graduated from the School of Art and Science, the University of Tokyo, and continues to study fisheries science at the Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo. He secured a tenure position in 1993 at the Faculty of Fisheries Sciences, Hokkaido University, the largest faculty of its kind in Japan, and since then has worked as a specialist in fish stock assessment and cetacean research.

Besides his academic career, Fritz continues to perform as a flautist at a professional level. In 1994, he was a finalist and won the special prize at one of the most famous flute competitions in Japan, the Japan Woodwinds Competition; in 1996 and 2003, he was awarded the incentive prize from Hakodate Music Society and Hakodate Cultural Society, respectively; and in 1999, he won the Grand Prix in the solo division of the Flute Competition, Japan.

He has played with the Hakodate Art Hall Symphonic Orchestra, as a concerto soloist with the Hokusui Orchestra, and with many outstanding players, including Agnes Giebel (Soprano) and the Janacek String Quartet. He also conducts the Hakodate Opera Orchestra and produces a concert series in Hakodate City Community Centre. He has released 5 albums with his flute ensemble 'Spark' and two CDs as a soloist̷0;


artist: Matt Rusin
description: Experimental Electro Blues at its Finest
homepage: matt_rusin
state: TX
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/matt_rusin.jpg
bio:
Growing up in an extended family of musicians, Matt Rusin has been producing his own music since the age of 13. From punk bands to jazz bands and everything in between, he's had a unique opportunity to learn many instruments including guitar, bass, piano, drums, harmonica, ukulele, steel drum and many more. He's also composed, recorded and produced songs in many different genres, released 8 albums, and toured across the country several times.

Living in Austin, TX and working on his first solo project ever provides a unique opportunity for Matt to fully express himself artistically, writing in the electronic, rock, blues, reggae, and dramatic genres and take advantage of the experiences he's been through over the past 16 years as a musician and producer.

His work can be heard on The Carson Daly Show (NBC), Criminal Minds (CBS), Californication (Showtime), and countless other TV shows on History, Discovery, Bravo, MTV, VH1, TLC, Nat Geo, DIY, Travel Channel, IFC, WEtv, LOGO, and more.


artist: Matt van den Heuvel
description: mesmerizing, groovy blends of Afrobeat, Jazz, Blues, and more
homepage: matt_vandenheuvel
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/matt_vandenheuvel.jpg
bio:
Matt van den Heuvel is a guitar player and producer based in Seattle, WA. Having studied music from more than half his life, his interests vary greatly from blues and rock, to ambient music, to jazz, and beyond. With a growing collection of recorded music, Matt is ever active as a composer and producer whose current works explore lush, acoustic driven ambience, space rock, and the blending of modern production tools with traditional instruments.

Shortly after graduating with a music degree from Western Washington University he began collaborating with artist Michal Menert, and has been active in the band's recordings and live performances since 2014. Despite maintaining a demanding performance schedule most of the year, Matt continues to bring his love of blues and jazz into the modern world, and is fascinated by the potential of melding these traditions with contemporary ideas and instruments.

Among other things, this love finds its expression in Matt's own albums as well as in projects with his band, The Savanna Underground.


artist: Mauricio Buraglia
description: a marvelous classical spiral of lute sounds
homepage: mauricio_buraglia
city: Paris
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/mauricio_buraglia1.jpg
bio:
Mauricio Buraglia began studying music as an adolescent, and acquired a passion for the lute and its repertoire. After the renaissance lute, he took up the theorbo for the purposes of accompaniment and continuo.

His first theorbo was one he built himself, like many lutenists of his generation. He then continued as an autodidact, taking advice from lutenists such as Hopkinson Smith, Konrad Junghanel, Anthony Bailes, Guy Robert and Paul O'Dette.

His main source of inspiration has been the many players, singers, dancers, conductors and actors with whom he has worked. His humanistic outlook on the relations between the different arts and crafts prompted him to research the interpretation of various lute repertoires, ranging from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

He has performed, as a lutenist or theorbist, in many baroque ensembles, including La Grande Ecurie et la Chambre du Roy, the Ensemble Baroque de Limoges, Musica Barocca of London, the Ensemble Europeen William Byrd, the Ensemble Baroque de Nice, the Ensemble Stradivaria, La Maitrise de Caen, Akademia, Le Nouvel Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, the Orchestre de l'Opera de Nancy et de Lorraine, the Orchestre National de Lille, the Orchestre de l'Opera de Marseille, the Orchestre Philharmonique de Liege, the Academie Sainte Cecile, the Ensemble Marin Marais, A Sei voci, and the Ensemble Matheus.

As a soloist or continuo player, he has taken part in over 50 recordings, some of which have received awards, and has played in concerts in Europe, South America, the United States, China, Africa and Japan. He composed, for the Theatre du Campagnol, the music for l'Impresario de Smyrne by Goldoni, as well as for the Theatre des Amandiers production of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale. He also has worked on several historical films for television and the cinema.

You can find out more about Mauricio on his website.


artist: Mediva
description: medieval music made enticingly modern
homepage: mediva
city: Cheshunt
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/mediva.jpg
bio:
Mediva is an outstanding medieval group made up of a flexible number of singers and multi-instrumentalists drawn from the leading exponents in their fields throughout Europe. Concerts feature a mix of exotic medieval and Arabian instruments such as oud, saz, shawms, recorders, harp, psaltery, fiddle and percussion as well as a range of singing techniques to suit each repertoire.

Combining slick playing with unusual visual presentation, Mediva creates an experience that is more than just a concert. Full of verve and dynamism, the enjoyment the musicians have on stage is infectious! In addition to Mediva's fresh approach to music making, concerts are often enhanced with dance, poetry, projections and special lighting as well.

Although individual members are steeped in the early music tradition, having trained at the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama and Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, Switzerland, Mediva has developed a new way to perform medieval music. Rather than trying to recreate the past, performances use medieval music as inspiration for a new sound world and concert experience, relying heavily on improvisation. The group also experiments with modern composition, specially commissioned for the ensemble and works with funk, rock and world musicians for several cross-over projects.

Mediva burst upon the early music scene in October 1998 with an outstanding concert as part of the Radio 3 Early Music Day at the Royal Academy of Music. The group is a frequent guest on Radio 4's 'Loose Ends' and have been featured on Radio 3's 'In Tune' and 'Late Junction' and Early Music Show. They made their international debut in 2001 giving a series of concerts at the Barcelona Early Music Festival and were finalists in the International Young Artists Competition at the York Early Music Festival. They were also invited to be guest artists at the Sommer Kurs fur Musik des Mittelalters at the world renowned Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, Switzerland.


artist: Memories of Tomorrow
description: melodic trance songs for a good mood.
homepage: mot
city: Lindas
country: Norway
bandphoto: /artists/img/mot.jpg
bio:
Memories of Tomorrow (MoT) is a pseudonym under which Leif Erik Gullanger produces melodic trance. His music is a perfect equilibrium between high energy beats and unforgettable, harmonic melodies. Memories of the past and visions of tomorrow seamlessly mix in his music. The most intimate and precious thoughts of mankind live in his words.

Leif Erik has been making music since around 1996 under different names. Some years ago Leif Erik recieved a message from Michael Lerman. Togheter they decided to make a song. Michael wrote the lyrics and Leif Erik produced the song. The song wasn't released under the name MoT. Leif Erik and Michael agreed that they should make more songs together, and in a short time the name MoT was choosen for the project, at the same time Margunn Blytt was asked to sing for MoT. She said yes. Today MoT consists of these three, Leif Erik, Michael and Margunn. They try to make melodical trance with meanigful lyrics.

Remember your past, follow your dreams, and join MoT in the quest for memories of tomorrow.


artist: Mercy Machine
description: introspective avant-pop songs
homepage: mercymachine
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mercy_machine_4.jpg
bio:
A hybrid between Leonard Cohen's late night confessions and Kate Bush's etherea, Mercymachine was formed in 1994 by vocalists/guitarists Jazno Francoeur and Susanne Turner, along with string virtuosos Paul Fleury on cello and Dan Cermeno on upright bass. Over the years, the lineup has included Christian Mildh, Cooper Ladnier, Chris Nobling, and soundtrack impresario, Kays Al-Atrakchi.

Their self-titled debut CD, Mercymachine, was released in 1997 and they spent the next few years working on In Your Bed a two-CD orchestral concept album about unrequited love and sexual politics. In 2003, an assortment of prominent electronica artists remixed In Your Bed with styles ranging from dirty techno to classic Orlando breakbeat.

2005 saw the release of The Devil I Know, a stripped-down project recorded with producer/engineer John Wagner.
The Devil I Know: The Remixes will be released this year and features Q Burns, Abstract Message, Dee Base, Antena, Gabo, Jeff Vylonis, DJ Yadis, Pimpdaddy Nash, and Gold Buddha.


artist: Merry Ellen Kirk
description: Pretty pop that sounds like jewel-tone colors
homepage: merry_ellen_kirk
state: TN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/merry_ellen_kirk.jpg
bio:
Merry Ellen Kirk is a poet. Perhaps "songwriter" is a more commonly used term, but it's also too commonplace for Merry Ellen's glittering narratives, songs that spring up wildly from her subconscious and bloom into vibrant, lilting melodies. Her sparkling piano refrains sweep and spill into fresh, sweet rivulets of notes; her lyrics weave bright, halcyon tales of dream sequences, the light and dark polarities of the human experience, and beauty in its many forms. "I write about light and dark a lot... good and evil, dreams and reality, the darker and lighter parts of the human soul," she explains.

Despite the undeniable tension in her thematic obsessions, Merry Ellen Kirk explores her dichotomies with grace. She writes songs with the cool effortlessness of youth, sings with the jaunty simplicity and breezy flair of a practiced performer, and plays with fleet fingers and subtle polish. In cultivating her own sound, Merry Ellen has employed a few key elements from her predecessors: the classical prowess of Tori Amos, the natural poise of Sarah McLachlan, the quiet pensiveness of A Fine Frenzy, and the bold whimsy of Regina Spektor.

Growing up a missionaries' daughter in Mongolia has had its effect on Merry Ellen's music, creating a refreshingly broad perspective from so young a person. "I think it mostly comes out in my approach to life. I feel like more of my songs are about the world and making the world a better place. My music is about seeing the world and being better for it."

Of her unconventional childhood musical inclinations Merry Ellen reveals, "In Mongolia, they don't have pianos, but I knew it was always something that I wanted to do - play piano. So when we moved back, I started taking lessons." They were the tiny seeds of something greater, a glowing catalyst dawning on Merry Ellen's path. "It was definitely a huge risk to just put myself out there and start doing this full time when I was seventeen. I had only written a couple of songs, but I knew that it was what I wanted to do."

A true Nashville singer/songwriter, Merry Ellen works best under pressure, dividing her artistic talents among multiple projects - like serving as half of burgeoning folk duo The Shakespeares and developing a pop venture with fellow songwriter Rachel Pearl - all the while tending her own flowering repertoire. "I'm inspired by other artists, and sometimes things in nature, too, because God's the artist there. I write songs from those moments."

On her sophomore album, Firefly Garden, 21-year-old Merry Ellen spins a gossamer web of silvery tunes that glints and glistens with morning dew and lightly stroked piano keys. "Every week for ten weeks I recorded a song, and it was really therapeutic for me. It was freeing," she says. "I think that's what the album is about: all this crazy stuff is happening around you, but it's important to find your inspiration and your beautiful place in life."

The record, produced by Shakespeares counterpart Aaron Krause, is an enchanted glimpse into Merry Ellen's sun-dappled mind, a veritable Eden of lush emerald canopies and richly tinted florets in which her music becomes the soundtrack to a verdant dream like delicate chimes floating on the billows of perfumed zephyrs. Among the high points of Firefly Garden lie the colorful, saccharine lyrics of "Candy," which are a cleverly draped disguise for a faintly melancholy word on chimeras and the hope and sorrow they arouse; the muted, jazzy, rhythmic tune "Do You?" that channels a Pieces-of-You-era Jewel or even a dusky Corinne Bailey Rae; the exquisite "Masquerade," an intricate, tortured tribute to Romeo and Juliet that features a rolling, minor piano and a heavy, fragile despair; and "Clair de Lune," a lovely, diaphanous interpretation of Debussy's famous melody complete with Merry Ellen's own lyrics, that swells and ebbs like salty tides breaking lazily on gleaming white sand, a performance both deeply felt and lavishly played.

"I feel like everything that happens in your life kind of goes into your songs. It's something that becomes part of your music. Who you are is your music." Becoming so helplessly entwined with one's music is a silent commitment to see the world through different eyes, an unalterable promise to commit one's life to the glorious immortal verse. That poetry is what sight would be to the blind, speech to the dumb, walking to the crippled, and life to the condemned, but Merry Ellen Kirk sees, speaks, walks, lives, and she has poetry.


artist: Mexeena
description: achingly beautiful.. almost edible!
homepage: mexeena
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/mexeena1.jpg
bio:
Mexeena's musical journey started when her and her sister were asked to join Acaysha, a local folk band, playing fiddle and banjo. They knew two tunes between them and began doing the rounds of the Norfolk pub folk scene. Lots of friends were made, including Anna, the girlfriend of legendary session pedal steel player - BJ Cole.

Their first album 'Uncovered' was recorded by BJ and they gigged it around as many folk festivals and pubs as physically possible, bearing in mind they were all holding down full time jobs.

Helping out BJ during the recordings was Guy Jackson who posted Mexeena some musical ideas to have a bash at writing some lyrics around....a bonus if she could come up with some sort of melody!

In his studio Guy Jackson is a songwriter and a computer games sound designer where his sonic palette and bizarre arrangements push stereo to its max! Guy was stunned by the melodies and top-lines Mexeena came back to him with, and the "Ether" project grew from there. Adrian Lever, who was a root member of Acaysha, became interested in the Ether project and started dropping into Guy's studio to add his acoustic guitar flavours to the tracks. Later, they promoted Ether around various London, Oxford and Norwich venues, enjoying what they were creating live. The three of them had a catch up and jam session at Adrian's gaff late 2009 and the pickings were so delicious that the ideas will provide a second Mexeena offering in mid 2010.

Mexeena the band are all very proud of the sound of Ether. It finds them slightly left-field with a hint of turquoise love. Get out your earpiece and save a space in your Ether!


artist: Michael Kastrup
description: ambient, meditative minimalism and old school synthesis
homepage: michael_kastrup
city: Copenhagen
country: Denmark
bandphoto: /artists/img/michael_kastrup.jpg
bio:
Michael Kastrup is a Danish synthesist whose primary trait is being a sound designer and consultant for various soft and hardware companies. Michael has worked on and off in the music industry since the early 80's as an arranger, engineer, composer and producer. Michael has also made music for TV shows, theatre and art exhibits.

After an eight year hiatus from the music scene in the 90's Michael started to pick up on synthesis again in 2002. Michael was curious about how far synthesis had got using software form. From then on its been a journey into all kinds of synthesis with the main focus being the use of additive waveforms and wavetables.

Michael usually works in his compact "Goldfish Studio" which today consists of 75% software and 25% hardware. In the early 80's the studio started out with a Tascam 4 tracks tapemachine, a Soundcraft mixer and a Yamaha CS 30 synthesizer, 30 years later Michael has had about 75% of all synthesizers through his hands, Waldorf PPG Wave being one of his favorites.

Michael's prefered genres are ambient, Berlin school and smooth jazz.

You can read more about Michael and his various projects on his own website.


artist: Michael Lovatt
description: Deep House and Tech with a trippy downtempo vibe
homepage: michael_lovatt
city: Berlin
country: Germany
bandphoto: /artists/img/michael_lovatt.jpg
bio:
Michael Lovatt is an Irish music producer and dj based in Berlin. He's been making and exploring deep and minimal electronic music in various guises for over 20 years. Originally inspired by early electro and ebm, and then in the 90's immersing himself in the burgeoning house and techno scene. He's played in many clubs and festivals in Ireland, Greece, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Germany for over 20 years. In Dublin he was a resident with the infamous Hospital crew for many years, and ran his own afterhours boat parties.

Michael has had releases on labels such as Deeper Shades, Something Different, Midnight Social, Ricochet, 3am, Freche Früchte, Cuatro, Mentha and more. While receiving support from such luminaries of the scene as Mike Huckaby, Roger Sanchez, Robert Owens, José Padilla, Phil Hartnoll and Andy Cato to name a few.


artist: Michael Murphy
description: Melodic New Age music that tells a story
homepage: michael_murphy
state: FL
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/michael_murphy.jpg
bio:
Michael Joseph Murphy was born February 26, 1985 in Englewood, Colorado to parents John and Penny. As the second oldest he was raised in a household of three sisters and one brother, all of whom are considered some of his closest friends.

Michael started piano at age three and never had a desire to be a professional musician. In high school he began a relationship with God that sparked his inspiration with creating music. Michael graduated from his high school, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, as a piano and composition major.

He began composing and playing professionally around Jacksonville FL as a means to put himself through college. He graduated from the University of North Florida with a B.A. in business management.

On their seventh anniversary he married his high-school sweetheart Lindsay Banks, who is also his photographer and best friend. In 2011 they had a son Joseph Theoren and in 2014 they had a daughter Grace Anastasia, both who have given Michael new inspiration in his music.

TRIVIA:
  * He was on the reality television show Ultimate Choice in 2003
  * 1 of 20 ambassadors in the world as a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
  * Born in a blizzard
  * Favorite Composers: Yanni, David Lanz, Alan Menken, Stephen Schwartz, James Horner, John Barry, John Williams and Mark Mancina
  * Favorite Artists: Bruce Hornsby, Steve Winwood, Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffet, Elton John and Phil Collins
  * Studied piano for first 4 years, loved it... next 8 years hated it... next 14 years has loved it.... thanks his mom for making him stick with it
  * Loves skiing, scuba diving, and playing hockey & football
  * Wanted to be a fighter pilot his entire childhood
  * Works as the dance musician at Jacksonville University, also teaches master classes to dancers and musicians
    
You can find out more about Michael on his website.
    


artist: Michael Tiernan
description: AAA acoustic-driven rock - Jack Johnson meets Coldplay, Keruac meets Confucius
homepage: michael_tiernan
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/michael_tiernan.jpg
bio:
Surviving cancer at age 16... At 18, traveling the country in a van with a group of wacky Catholic hippies giving retreats to young people...
Criss-crossing through Europe with his guitar... Hanging with monks deep in desert monasteries...
Living in the Vatican as a seminarian in his 20's on the way to becoming a priest, yet preferring to play gigs in local Roman pubs, or studying Buddhism in the piazza when he should've been in class...
now a seasoned songwriter, performer, father of two babies and four albums.

What would a person like this have to say about life? Plenty, especially when magnified through the prism of a song.

Meet Michael Tiernan. Through the experiences of what could be ten lifetimes, Michael is an artist who has plunged into and explored the deep spaces of personal and worldly conflict, the beauty of love and nature, the joy of new life and the pain of losing loved ones, as well as the meaning of suffering and pervasive unhappiness that threatens our human experience on all sides. In his music, he resurfaces from these depths beaming with a positive outlook for all of us.

The Music
Michael Tiernan's new album, "L.A. Can Wait", is a pop gem. It is Jack Johnson meets Coldplay, Karouac meets Confuscious.

But why can L.A. wait? Mostly because of a few calls San Diego singer/songwriter Michael Tiernan has received the past couple of years. One went like this: "Don't worry Mike, I am Strong". Tiernan hung up the phone and couldn't believe it. Stage 4 cancer, his own brother. 2 years later, as Tiernan was recording tracks in the studio for "Strong", the very song he had written about his brother Joe's battle with the terrible disease, he received another call, this time from the hospital. Three days later, his brother had passed away. Tiernan played the song for his brother on the last morning of his life. That song, "Strong" is the swirling center of Michael's emotional and inspiring new album, "LA Can Wait".

Yet "LA Can Wait" is not about death, and is certainly not a downer. "L.A. Can Wait" is actually an incredibly celebratory album that reveres each unique color in the spectrum of life, from birth to death, with the over-arching mandate to appreciate and enjoy every moment in between.

In fact, a cancer-survivor himself, Tiernan penned two of the most tender of love songs, inspired by a couple other calls he got, the ones where his wife said, "I'm pregnant". These are songs about the unexpected miracle of new life. Tiernan has produced two children since his last album release, "Spaces", in 2007.

"L.A. Can Wait" is Tiernan's 4th studio album and was produced by L.A.'s rising talent Andre de Santanna, who learned a lot of his production chops from multi-platinum producer, Roy Thomas Baker, and has production and performance credits with an array of top artists including Jason Mraz.

Michael's past three albums are all award-winners (two-time Los Angeles Award winner for Male Singer-Songwriter of the Year and Triple-A Album of the Year, International Acoustic Music Awards Male Artist of the Year Runner-Up, Great American Song Contest finalist).

"L.A. Can Wait" is an album for both the goal-driven workaholic and the free-spirited contemplative. It takes you from the beach to the city, from the temple to the tavern, and leaves a little bit of your heart in each place.


artist: Michael Travisano
description: Modern alternative piano to feel in your gut
homepage: michael_travisano
state: PA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/michael_travisano.jpg
bio:
Pianist and composer Michael Travisano has one foot firmly planted in the tradition of classical piano while the other foot keeps time with American rock, blues, metal, bluegrass, and pop. Influenced by the great masters Beethoven and Chopin, Pearl Jam and Led Zeppelin, Mike's musical upbringing reflects this same marriage of styles.

Abandoning piano lessons as a kid for louder pursuits as a self-taught electric guitarist, Mike rediscovered the beauty, energy, and power of classical music in his early twenties. He was accepted as a student of RCA Records artist Julia Benfer and had the great fortune of studying with her until her passing in 2009 at the age of 99.

Continuing to practice and perform classical works in the central Pennsylvania area, Mike began to write music of his own that would eventually become the album, White Whale. Drawing from his own personal experiences and following simple musical forms, the pieces reflect the deep emotions shared by all : anger, loss, and longing, as well as hope, gratitude, and love.

Mike currently lives, composes, and performs in Rome, Italy and you can find out more about him on his website.


artist: Michelle Bellerose
description: art-rock songstress delivers fresh sounds
homepage: michelle_bellerose
city: Toronto
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/michelle_bellerose.jpg
bio:
Michelle Bellerose is an innovator whose multidisciplinary work touches all human senses through her ongoing investigations into intuition, creativity, and health.

In all of her endeavours, her trailblazing approach invites us to hone our relationships with our bodies and minds in order to experience enchantment and wonder.

From pioneering a new form of yoga, blogging new paradigms for public policy around peace and wellness issues, to her award-winning work as an iconoclastic chef, Michelle continually breaks ground with her work and play.

As a musician, an eclectic mix of sounds blends into Michelle's own unmistakable style. Unique vocals along with her skilled treatment of both improvised and recorded arrangements contribute to her growing reputation as a leading musical talent.

MUSIC BACKGROUND:
Michelle sang from an early age and became a featured operatic soloist with a Ukrainian troupe based in Sudbury that performed extensively throughout Canada and in countries like Venezuela, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina, where as a teenager she appeared in the role of a gypsy fortuneteller in Zaporozhian Kozaks on the stage of the renowned Colon Theater in Buenos Aires.

She studied piano with a Conservatory teacher for nine years and regularly participated in the local Kiwanis Festival.

In high school at Lockerby Composite she played in both the concert and stage bands on keyboards and alto clarinet. As a teenager she performed for two years with a group of elderly gentlemen who formed a mandolin orchestra in the basement of the Ukrainian Hall, and was the concert pianist for the Dnipro Choir and Ukrainian school. She stopped making music at 17. It would be another 16 years before she took up an instrument or sang again.

In 2002 she began to experiment with sound art, performing as an improvisor with such notables as Mike Hansen and Tomasz Krakowiak, creating a residential music series called the Diogenes Project with prepared guitarist and saz player Arnd Jurgensen.

On discovering yoga in 1997 she also discovered Indian music and soon her interest in abstraction gave way to world music influences. She studied Indian classical music with Gauri Guha, Sudha and Som Naimpally, and Ed Hanley. A release of studio demos from this period, 'Tellum Passionis,' featuring performances by Ed Hanley, Richard Underhill and George Koller debuted at #5 on campus radio charts. Philly Markowitz gave Michelle her first radio play with a track from this CD on CBC's Roots and Wings.

One of the tracks from Tellum, 'Call From the Red Bank,' had been especially recorded for her ailing father who, on hearing it, prophesied that her music was a waste of time and would never amount to anything. Ironically, Markowitz chose that very track for airplay, debuting the recording just a few hours after his death. Michelle reflects, "Rather than viewing that as a vindication of any kind, I understood my father's spirit was speaking to me tenderly, generously and in a way he never could in life. He was telling me through this synchrony to believe in myself and never mind the words and judgements of others, even when those words come from someone you love very much."

Near the end of this period Michelle organized a fundraising event for the David Miller campaign at the now defunct Bambu on Queens Quay with the help of the late Richard O'Brien and a host of local musicians including John Farah, DJ MedicineMan (CIUT), Autorickshaw, and Plan-C. She recorded and performed with Nik Beeson, and did a series of shows with BrilliantFish, before retiring a second time to open a restaurant.

In 2011 she returned to music making with the release of ANIMAL POWERS.

motto:
take your heart / break it like a fruit / red and juicy / see how it shoots


artist: Middle-Earth Ensemble
description: sultry and percussive Mid-East fusion
homepage: middle_earth_ensemble
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/middle_earth_ensemble.jpg
bio:
The Middle-Earth Ensemble is a San Diego based group that performs orignal and traditonal music for belly dance, and other ethnic styles. Their gypsy-infused sound has fueled the hips of many a belly dancer in the Southern California area, and has led to their popularity.

The musicians derive their influences from many different styles, including Arabic, Persian, Turkish, folk, jazz, classical, rock and improvisational music. The music of Middle-Earth Ensemble represents a unique fusion and blending to create their original sound.

Robert Rotzler - Mandolin, Violin
Robert has studied classical violin since 1970, and has performed solo in Europe, Central America and the West Coast. He has performed with many symphony orchestras including the National Symphony of Mexico, Symphonia de Theatro Nacional (Costa Rica) and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Later taking up the mandolin, he has played locally with many bands and artists, including Rockola, Hera's Olive, Travel Agents, Hot Monkey Love, Cindy Lee Berryhill.

Anthony Sarain - Saxophone, Flute
Anthony has been making music on a variety of wind instruments for over 20 years. Inspired by various jazz artists such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Charlie Parker, Anthony has pursued music in as many forms as possible, working to find the beauty in each genre. Improvising is his favorite part of music, the instantaneous creation of one's thoughts. Anthony believes that music is an important component to self knowledge.

Frank Lazzaro - Dumbek, Percussion
Frank has studied Middle Eastern and African drumming for over 15 years, and has played for many dancers and groups. He produces monthly showcases at Claire de Lune coffeehouse, where he has accompanied John Bilezikjian and others. Frank teaches drumming in weekly lessons, plays regularly for dance classes, and has an instructional CD available. He is also a member of the world beat group Damaru, and the rock band, Travel Agents.

Andy Villas-Boas - Bass Guitar, Vocals
Originally from Brazil, and playing bass and guitar professionally for over 20 years, Andy brings an exotic, Latin sound to the band with his unique sound and vocalizing. He is the former lead vocalist for Super Sonic Samba School, played in the middle-eastern fusion band Nine Wind, and also has a flourishing solo career as a performing and recording artist.

Micheal Mesleh - Oud, Guitar, Sitar
Michael has been playing music since he was 8 years old, having studied on a wide variety of instruments. Being primarily an improviser his primary influences since youth have been Arabic music, Indian music, and jazz. While Michael has played in many electric rock, funk, and jazz bands since growing up in Chicago, he prefers to play acoustic music and has been doing so in San Diego for quite a few years with various other improvisational musicians.

You can find out more about the Middle Earth Ensemble on their website.


artist: Midway Still
description: Sensitive and loud, punk with a pop centre
homepage: midway_still
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/midway_still.jpg
bio:
Midway Still are a punk-pop band formed in 1990 in South London, England, by singer/guitarist Paul Thomson, bassist Jan Konopka and drummer Declan Kelly.

After only 8 gigs the band were given a live review in Melody Maker, and soon after that were the subject of much label interest. Signing to Fire Records' subsidiary Roughneck (run by now Domino main-man, Laurence Bell) the Midways set off touring endlessly around the UK and Europe, with the likes of Therapy, Mega City Four, Snuff, Leatherface and Jacobs Mouse.

Following their NME single-of-the-week debut "I Won't Try", the band recorded a John Peel session in 1991 and released the "Wish" EP (including a cover of My Bloody Valentine's "You Made Me Realise" - a firm live favourite!) prior to the release of their debut album, Dial Square (1992). The album was made by Sonic Youth producer Don Fleming, and that year saw the band play both Reading and Glastonbury Festivals, among others.

Their second album, "Life's Too Long" was recorded in 1993 and was produced by Leatherface's Frankie Stubbs. Once again the band hit the road, but towards the end of this year Kelly announced his intention to quit the band.

Thomson and Konopka auditioned dozens of drummers and replaced Kelly with Brad Aitchison, with whom they recorded a third album. However, something had been lost, BritPop was coming in and the record (and the band!) were shelved. Thomson went on to sign with EMI Music with his band Grouch, (which included Konopka) and it was not until 2000 that Thomson and Kelly resurrected MS, being joined by Russell Lee on bass. A single, the charmingly titled "Fuck You" was released in 2001 on the band's own Antipop Records and they continued to play sporadically live in London over the next few years.

In 2007 they were invited to play the "4 for Wiz" gig with Carter USM and The Senseless Things after the Mega City Four singer's tragic death. It was around this time that the recording of a new album was discussed, which finally led to the release of "Note To Self" in 2010. The album represented both a return to form AND a leap forward for the band and was greeted by the few in-the-know with warm appreciation after it's release on Boss Tuneage. In November of that year the band made their first trip to Japan and played a successful seven date tour there.

2012 will see the band form their own label Bitter and Twisted Records which will put out a new album "Always Ends" and re-release "Note To Self" as well as rarities by themselves and associated bands.


artist: Mijo
description: catchy electronic music dosed with world influences
homepage: mijo
city: Offenbach
country: Germany
bandphoto: /artists/img/mijo_new2.jpg
bio:
Mijo (AKA Michel Jordan) began his musical adventures on flute and piano at the tender age of 8. By age 11 he had branched out into woodwinds, playing alto sax in the school orchestra until the fateful day in 1977 when his family moved to Germany and he was forced to leave the saxophone behind.

Luckily, this did not spell the end of his career - upon arriving in Germany, he promptly put his talents to good use on a Gibson western guitar, expanding his repertoire with lessons and collaborations with Thomas Reuther, who went on to become a noted classical guitarist in his own right.

The two went on to eventually form the Turkish/Oriental fusion band 'Grup Fakir', with several other musicians, and received critical acclaim and an offer to tour Turkey in the mid-1990's. Unfortunately the band dissolved shortly after recording their first demo cd, but Thomas and Michel continued their forays, delving into musical motifs that firmly straddled Greek and Turkish origins.

In 1995 Michel met new cohorts, Christian Wolff and Michael Fey, who he went on to produce and perform live soundscapes and themes to Fachhochschule - Frankfurt theatres production of Shakespeares' 'Midsummer Nights Dream' and 'Macbeth'. Again, his efforts met with resounding success, both personally and publicly.

Michel and Christian went on to form the experimental acoustic/electro-fusion/jazz/techno/blues-rock band 'Ultraschall', playing on a weekly basis with guest artists from around the world, including Christian Schmidhofer of Embryo.

In 1999, Jordan and Fey teamed up, under the Sensor II moniker, to produce some new tracks with a more electronic edge, cuts of which rose to the top of the charts on Garageband.com and were included on the Garageband 'Best of Electronica' compilation CD. It was through Garageband that Artemis connected with Jordan to eventually produce the track 'Hypno' on Artemis' latest release 'Gravity'.

'Fata Morgana' is Jordan's latest effort, a sensual trip that beats a path across time and genre, melding the past, present and future sounds of world music.


artist: Mikal Evans
description: indie sound, southern soul
homepage: mikal_evans
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mikal_evans.jpg
bio:
Mikal Evans has a folk rock sound of a woman in charge.

After a stint with acoustic players, Revival, laying down the keys and violin, she decided to go solo and perform music a little more her own style. Her morose and sultry voice drive her acoustic rock sound, reminiscent of a Tom Waits structure but with sweetly melodious vocals, simultaneously taking influences from the indie rock movement as much as singer/songwriter genres.

For Evans, influences are dated back to when she was growing up in Moore, South Carolina. That is where she first heard her father record bands in a converted schoolhouse gymnasium (previously owned by the Marshal Tucker Band), and that's where she found music to be her calling. She bought a guitar at 16 and began writing songs immediately, picking up gigs around her hometown and just generally honing in on her craft.

After college, she moved to Washington, D.C., signed to Gypsy Eyes Records, and began playing all over the district with Timothy Bracken for months. Before heading into the studio, the duo added the drum work of Jerry Busher (French Toast) and bass stylings of Ashish Vyas (Thievery Corporation). However, this band was unable to tour due to side projects.

As for her solo efforts, Evans' debuted with an EP, "A Jailhouse...A Kingdom," released June 2008 by D.C. based Gypsy Eyes Records. The tracks are etched with an Appalachian influence and often accompanied by mysterious lyrical content that demands a second listen.

Since her debut release, Evans has been living in New York City where she frequents venues such as the Rockwood Music Hall in the Lower East Side and Spike Hill in Williamsburg. Her first LP "Build a Cannon", released February 2012, echoes the southern feel of her first release in songs like "Holding on to" and "Home", while taking the bite of stronger indie rock influence. Her first attack at producing, "Build a Cannon" is laced with those dark guitars tones, haunting lyrics, and an edge we didn't hear in her first release.

The DCist wrote: "Evans' style is best summed up by an observation from one audience member: "This reminds me of a really good P.J Harvey song". To her credit, Evans has sincerity by the bucket. Like her raspy voice, her melodies seem to prize honesty over prettiness."


artist: Mike Goudreau Jazz Band
description: boppin', swingin' joie de vivre whether it's jazz or blues
homepage: mike_goudreau
city: Stanstead
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/mike_goudreau_new_small.jpg
bio:
Born in 1965 in Newport, Vermont into a musical family with an English mother and a French-Canadian father, Mike Goudreau picked up his first guitar at age 14 and hasn't stopped playing since. His early influences included the Beatles, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and later, Albert, B.B. And Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dutch Mason - to name a few. Such diverse interests help to explain why Mike is comfortable in so many musical genres, especially jazz and blues.

Since 2007, Mike's songs have been heard on hundreds of network TV shows such as NCIS Los Angeles (CBS), Gotham (FOX), the TV movie North Pole (Hallmark Channel), The Fosters (ABC Family), Defiance (FX), Hung (HBO), Auction Kings (Discovery), Oddities (Discovery), Memphis Beat (TNT), Friday Night Lights (ABC), Let's Make A Deal (CBS), Scoundrels (ABC), Justified (FX), George Lopez Show (TBS), Dirty Sexy Money (ABC ), Army Wives (Lifetime), Kath and Kim (NBC) and Everybody Hates Chris (CW), just to name a few.

Mike Goudreau Jazz Band

Mike Goudreau presents : "Look For The Sunshine": Featuring original songs, not to mention one song sung in French, "La Gentille Fille", co-written with Michel Aubin. Whether it's a Sinatra-style crooner, groovy instrumental, dreamy bossa-nova, romantic ballad, New Orleans-style Dixieland or a finger snappin' blues, everyone from the most particular connaisseur to the jazz newbie will be enchanted with this eclectic mix of jazz.

Over the past two decades Mike has performed at hundreds of events and some of the most prestigious Jazz and Blues Festivals in Eastern Canada including a record number 10 appearances at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, among many others. He's also accompanied many artists over the years including harmonica legend Lee Oskar ( Of the band War ) as well as international artists: Roch Voisine, Garou and Corneille and many more. When asked why he plays both jazz and blues Mike replies: "I get bored doing just one type of music. I love jazz for its beautiful melodies, chords, and improvisation. I love blues for its energy, soul and milking its three-chord structure. I enjoy playing rock 'n roll too. But no matter what music I play it has to SWING!"

Quotes from Jazz/Blues Media

"Listening to his music it is almost seems he is searching for the musical Holy Grail but in actuality he is the musical Holy Grail. He is already there - but he just doesn't let up on his drive to do more, write better songs, record more, play live more."
Sandy Graham - Cashbox Canada Magazine, Toronto

" Well, if Mike Goudreau and his boys were looking for the sunshine with their new album, they certainly found it! Lay the sunscreen heavy 'cause this one is a real scorcher!"
Dan Behrman, Producer/Host, Espace Musique / Radio-Canada ".

"Quality Canadian blues...solid and unpretentious...swings with snappy sincerity and crisp energy"
Hal Horowitz, Blues Revue Magazine, USA Oct/Nov 2006 Issue - Hal Horowitz - Blues Revue Magazine, USA

"Failure to unimpress, is something that Mike Goudreau and which ever group he is with, manage to do brilliantly. His ability to offer up creative new takes on Covers, as well as, his ability to offer up refreshingly new Originals, is something that has certainly set Mike Goudreau and Company, apart."
John Vermilyea - Blues Underground Network, B.C., Canada.

"A hearty vocalist and effective guitarist who plays snarling, tightly wound leads...A highly enjoyable set
Tom Hyslop - Blues Revue Magazine, USA

"Goudreau plays lead guitar with the tone and taste of greats like Otis Rush and Albert King, and writes compelling, original songs".
Jeremy Loome, Edmonton Sun, 2007 - Jeremy Loome - Edmonton Sun

" I love Mike's easy going, confident approach to music.He shows his 'big picture' love and understanding of the blues in his guitar playing and songwriting."
Holger Petersen June 2009 - Holger Petersen - Galaxie Blues

You can find out more about Mike on his website.


artist: Mike McGuill
description: Diverse, intelligent electronica from London
homepage: mike_mcguill
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/mike_mcguill.jpg
bio:
Mike McGuill is a London-based musician and sound engineer.

Mike McGuill is a London-based musician and sound engineer.

Mike's life-long relationship with music began, as many do, with a guitar, and he spent much of the nineties performing with it on the London and Kent band scenes.

Later, his interest shifted to electronic music. Earliest forays into this territory involved nothing more than a borrowed keyboard and a four-track tape machine, but from these humble beginnings eventually came several years of academic study in audio engineering.

These days Mike is equally at home with a guitar, at the keys of a piano, or behind the controls of a mixing desk, sampler or sequencer. He brings these diverse influences to bear in his music, blending organic sounds and real-world instruments with electronic elements, to create compelling melodies, grooves and soundscapes.

Always a prolific writer of music, he now composes for media. His music has been used in places as diverse as primetime BBC in the UK, nationwide in-store campaigns in the USA, European clothing brands, Australian current affairs shows, a South American ice cream promo, and a Czech documentary about rowing!

Between music projects, he is also a sound designer and editor for picture, with a portfolio that includes award-winning shorts, feature films, web series, and collaborations with film makers from around the world.

You can hear more of Mike's music on his Soundcloud or follow him on Twitter.


artist: Mike Wall
description: healing music for planetary transformation
homepage: mikewall
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mikewall.jpg
bio:
Mike is a multi-instrumentalist, engineer, and producer committed to personal and planetary transformation. His primary tools are sounds and music. He works closely with healers and therapists of various modalities to create music perfectly designed to meet their needs and the needs of their clients.

Mike resides near Seattle with his wife, dearest friend, and co-producer Pam and their feline roommates Nacho, Beany, and Zach. He draws upon the natural beauty of the Northwest for inspiration. He also travels with his portable audio equipment and instruments, recording the sounds of nature, which he sometimes weaves into his healing soundscapes. With eyes, ears, and heart open, Mike is thankful for every day, for sound, and for all of the loving beings that touch his life.

Mike's musical journey began in his home town of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Science, electronics, music, and sound were his early passions. His earliest memories are of his father's reel-to-reel tape recorder with its uncanny ability to record and playback sounds and its mysterious glowing "green eye" signal indicator. His first word was something like "ites," baby talk for "lights," as he was mesmerized by electric lights. It is not surprising that sound and music are still among his greatest passions 43 years later, and that ambient lighting, lasers, and amateur lighting design are still on his short list.

Mike was an overly sensitive kid. "This hyper-sensitivity is still with of me. Of course I've had to stretch out and deal with many personalities and challenges in my life, but I still find myself empathizing and sensing the feelings and human needs of others. I'm still learning to listen to these instincts."

With troubles at home and a broken family, Mike dropped out of high school for about 6 months. He ultimately obtained his diploma from an alternative education program and, after working for a few years as an electronics technician, obtained his baccalaureate degree in electrical engineering form the University of Oklahoma.

Mike found the greatest solace in his music, electronics, and scientific hobbies. For science, Mike thanks his 6th grade Science teacher, Mrs. Burris, his influential uncles, Bill and Johnny, his father, and Carl Sagan. For music, Mike was fortunate to have the great influences of his older siblings. They introduced him to Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Yes, Jethro Tull, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, etc. The eternally optimistic but enigmatic lyrics of Jon Anderson of Yes were most influential. They painted a sonic world of connectedness and infinite possibilities that is still fundamental to Mike's world view.

Mike was first introduced to world music by his father's albums of tribal drumming and steel drum music. Later, Mike was introduced to the world fusion music of John McLaughlin's Mahavishnu orchestra by Joel Zane, a family friend and early mentor, and to this day he loves Indian classical music. Mike weaves elements from many styles of healing and spiritual music into his compositions.

Mike's mom remains a strong influence in his life. "She embodies the Golden Rule." Together, they attended concerts of John Denver and Johnny cash. Through tough times, they found common ground, great hope, life lessons, and healing in the words and lectures of Dr. Leo Buscaglia. Here was an authority figure, respected by people of all walks, that spoke of the commonality of religions and the common values that give us hope for the future.

Mike received his first guitar for Christmas at the age of 15 and bought his first acoustic guitar (with money earned from being a janitor) at age 16. He still owns that acoustic guitar. "I never stopped playing guitar." He has also collected various ethnic instruments over the years and experiments with many music and audio related things. Mike's composition, audio recording, and production skills are entirely self-taught and have evolved over the years. Mike is a constant student of life.

In 1995 Mike and Pam took a 4 week road trip in his little Honda Civic across the North American Southwest. They had always been drawn to the art and philosophies of the early Americans. They planned their trip around state and national park visits focusing on areas where they could experience petroglyphs, pictographs, rock art, cliff dwellings, kivas, etc.

During this trip Mike was exposed to the Native American flute at the Hubbell Trading Post in Arizona. He purchased a primitive 7 hole there and then a 6 hole at Monument Valley later during the same trip. "I knew nothing about the scales, and with hindsight I now realize that these were really primitive flutes - very difficult to play in tune, etc. Still - I was hooked on this instrument. With the release of my breath it transported me back in time. I now recommend the Native American flute to everyone. It is grounding and links us to nature. It is very approachable. One can make beautiful, relaxing sounds by just following a few simple rules, using their breath, their ears, and their heart. The instrument is wonderfully portable for vacations or nature hikes."

Jan Michael Looking Wolf has been an important recent influence on Mike in his flute and life journey. "I embrace the Spirit of One Heart that is at Jan's core. Jan's music and spirit are incredible."

Over the last few years Mike has focused on creating healing music. "I follow my heart and intuition. I start by creating music that will allow me to relax and focus. I ultimately work with a network of wonderful healing practitioners to perfect the music for them and their clients."

More broadly, Mike believes there is deep need for global human and planetary healing. "Counting my blessings, I am called to open my heart and offer my music to the world. My intention is to create music to enable healing through the power of music and sound."


artist: Minstrel Spirit
description: medieval, celtic, classical, pop, folk inspired music
homepage: minstrel_spirit
city: Linnegatan
country: Sweden
bandphoto: /artists/img/minstrel1.jpg
bio:
Minstrel Spirit consist of two front persons: David Braic (guitar, vocals) and Carolina Lindwall ( vocals). Depending on occasion more musicians are added when performing live.

The latest project "Enter the woods" gives an insight of what Minstrel Spirit is about.

Different music styles blending medieval, celtic, classical, pop, folk, spanish, arabic and renaissance inspired music.

Exotic melodies with haunting vocals giving the listener a peace of heart and mind...


artist: Misericordia
description: sickeningly good Medieval
homepage: misericordia
city: Okehampton
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/misericordia2.jpg
bio:
The duo Misericordia specialises in the Music and Song of Medieval Britain and Europe. Anne Marie Summers and Stephen Tyler have been playing and recording together as a duo for over a decade, taking some of the earliest scored music and combining it with the improvisational element of folk music for an exciting and dynamic performance.

They are accomplished multi-instrumentalists, and their wide range of instruments allows them many different sound textures to match the different musical traditions of medieval Europe.

Misericordia will take you from the mesmeric drone-based harmonies of their trademark combination of bagpipes and hurdy-gurdy, to the harmonically sparser sound of recorder and citole, as well as to softer timbres such as voice and harp.

Performances also include quieter, more reflective pieces, often extended through improvisation, using voice, recorder, harp, and lutes.

Misericordia also appear at churches, castles and halls, heritage sites, storytelling events, historical fairs and other outdoor events throughout the country, complete with medieval clothing and tent.

Current concert projects include: Passion, Plague and Pilgrimage, a programme of music from the dark and troubled 14th century, including Italian Istampitas, love songs of Machaut and pilgrimage songs from the Llibre Vermell.

For more information, please visit their website.


artist: Modinski
description: beats of love
homepage: modinski
city: Lebbrue
country: Belgium
bandphoto: /artists/img/modinski.jpg
bio:
Modinski is a belgian based producer located around Brussels. Although Modinski has not been producing music for very long he wil astonish you! His love for electronic music is really big.

He was already a DJ and organizer of electronic dance music parties in Belgium when he decided to start producing. This comibination seems to work. Some of his tracks are played by big DJ's all over the world. Through his musical carreer Modinski is influenced by artists like Daft Punk, Agoria, Legowelt...

This is definitely a story that has only just started!


artist: Mogilalia
description: surrealist, modern classical ambient with tranquil trascendence
homepage: mogilalia
city: Novokuznetsk
country: Russia
bandphoto: /artists/img/mogilalia.jpg
bio:
Mogilalia is ambient music with modern classics and neoclassical influences. The atmosphere of the music has been likened to the visions that you can see on the canvases of such artists like Salvador Dali and Picasso. The sounds are like the soundtrack to the films of David Lynch.

The composer of Mogilalia's music is Dmitry Dolgov, born in Siberia, Russia. Dmitry started to make music for his Mogilalia progect in 2011, before that he was composing songs for his indie rock project Thread of Narration.

At the age of 29, Dmitry was playing indie rock and heavy metal songs but always felt drawn to ambient music. He bought a midi-keys in 2011, plugged it into his laptop and started composing ambient and oriential modern classic pieces. Dmitry has no musical education and not that much piano practice!

Dmitry is fond of different esoteric and transcendental ideas, ideas of dissolution in absolute being, ideas of escaping from material attachments. These have a large influence on his music. Every time he composes, he enters a transcendental meditation. Each song is an exploration of a transcendental place, a journey to other planets with different atmospheres, different emotive powers.


artist: Moh Alileche
description: music of the mountains of Kabylia
homepage: moh_alileche
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/moh_alileche.jpg
bio:
Moh Alileche was born in, 1959 in Kabylia, a mountainous region of northern Algeria. He moved to California in 1990. He plays traditional Algerian Amazigh music, singing in his native Tamazight language, and incorporating the use of instruments common to North Africa, namely the mandol and bendir.

Alileche's music also highlights the need for conscientious resistance to authoritarian regimes that undermine human rights. Many themes in his music focus upon the importance of Love, Freedom, Truth, and Justice, in order to be triumphant over human suffering, in general.

Alileche blends his soulful, emotionally charged, passionate voice to hypnotic rhythms, captivating melodies, and entrancing beats. He has released four albums in the last decade, "Tragedy (Tawaghit)"in 1999, "The Source of Water (Taawit)" in 2002, "North Africa's Destiny? (Tarwa n' Tamazgha)" in 2005, and most recently "In Memory of a Hero" (Ur Ken Tetsu) in 2009. The first and latest CDs were both dedicated to late singer and activist, Lounes Matoub, who was assassinated in Algeria at the age of 42.

Indie Acoustic Project chose "North Africa's Destiny?" as the best album in the World Music-Africa category in 2005. Alileche currently lives in Berkeley, where he enjoys playing for various venues in the local music community across California.
By: Iysha Givens


artist: Mojo Radio
description: dirty blues fo' yo' dirty minds
homepage: mojo_radio
state: WI
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mojo_radio.jpg
bio:
Remember when the quality of music was judged by the raw force of a bands dynamic, as opposed to corporate sales charts and overproduced recordings? Well just in case the world may have forgotten, Grooveyard Records recording artist Mojo Radio is here to remind you.

With emphasis on ripping guitar lines, solid rhythm backbone, and punchy, soulful vocals, Mojo Radio aims to usher in a new approach to music that's reminiscent of the great rock 'n' roll and blues techniques that have stood the test of time.

Drawing heavily from the influences of bands like The Black Crowes, Drive-By Truckers, Rival Sons, Humble Pie, Free, The Faces, as well as blues artists like Muddy Waters, Freddie King, and Sonny Terry. Mojo Radio creates music that commands attention by way of an undeniable blues-rock groove and pure musical mojo.

Mojo Radio has their songs played on the radio in the United States and Europe, as well as being reviewed by publications around the world. Their music has gained them a sponsorship by Bud Light, as well as endorsements from Vic Firth, and Curt Mangan Strings. Mojo Radio has had the honor of working with legendary Cheap Trick drummer, Bun E. Carlos, on pre-production for their first full length album.

Mojo Radio has shared the stage with the following artists: Ted Nugent, The BoDeans, Kansas, Foghat, The Romantics, Crash Test Dummies, Dan Baird and Homemade Sin (the Georgia Satellites), Clyde Stubblefield, The Steepwater Band, Caroline's Spine , Earl Greyhound, and Nic Cowan. Mojo Radio believes that they are best when seen live. They continue to win fans over, show after show.

You can find out more about Mojo Radio on their website.


artist: Mokhov
description: The most uplifting electronic music
homepage: mokhov
state: NV
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mokhov_1.jpg
bio:
Mokhov is the world's most mobile electronic musician. Born in Russia and raised in the US, he travels the world and makes music that sounds like a mix of Four Tet, Bonobo, and Tycho.

Mokhov makes all his electronic music on a laptop. He has the world's smallest studio: his backpack. And rather than put the focus on himself, Mokhov lets the tunes speak for themselves.


artist: Monoide
description: minimal, hypnotic and mesmerizing electronic music.
homepage: monoide
city: Bratislava
country: Slovakia
bandphoto: /artists/img/monoide.jpg
bio:
Monoide (aka Tomas Lipka) is part of the exciting Slovak electronic music scene.

The biggest influence on his work is the Bratislava-based Uclub, considered by many as the mecca of electronic music in Slovakia.

Monoide is an active DJ in Europe, playing deep dark minimal techno sets.


artist: Monom
homepage: monom
city: Velenje
country: Slovenia
bandphoto: /artists/img/monom_new.jpg
description:
ethnotronica, World music, electronic, downtempo, ambient techno, dystopia, cinematic, far-east, Australia and Europe

bio:
Stane Spegel, also known as Monom, HouseMouse, and Stanislav, has been active in the Slovenian arts scene as a composer, instrumentalist, producer, and creator of multimedia content for four decades. He has released 25 solo albums that cover a wide range of styles, as well as 10 albums as a member of various bands (The Stoj, Fuzzit, Amfibia, Neurobic, BioNet, Dig, Kissik, etc.). As a member of the Microtrip collective, he has performed at all major electronic and experimental music festivals in Central Europe over the past thirty years. His compositions have appeared on several domestic and international music compilations, and he has produced remixes for tracks by foreign artists such as Air, Jamez, Chris Liebing, Sestre, Elevators, and Eric Satie. He has won numerous international music competitions and contests.

In addition to his work as a musician, Stane is also involved in creating musical equipment for theatrical and dance performances, as well as for public events. He has produced more than twenty solo music-visual performances/exhibitions that combine his sculptures, graphics, relief landscapes, and video films with his original music. His video films have been featured at several domestic and international video festivals. Stane has also written, co-written, and directed multiple commemorative events for political, cultural, fashion, and sports occasions.

You can find out more about Stane on his website and check out his videos on Youtube below.


artist: Monte Casino
description: where modern rock meets classic rock
homepage: monte_casino
state: GA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/monte_casino.jpg
bio:
Monte Casino is what happens when great friends from different projects finally decide to get together and make some noise. Is it a "side project"? Sure. Remember, Led Zeppelin started out as a side project (...ok, not really). Tony sings in Mavalour, Joe is producing and playing bass in Summer Dare, and Tim is the lead guitarist in Pebble Theory. Are those bands great? Yes, they are.

But now is the age of side projects, and dare I say, "supergroups". Them Crooked Vultures and The Dead Weather are both in heavy rotation for me right now. We had no choice in the matter, really. Funny thing is, Monte Casino (MC) sounds like none of the bands listed above, and sometimes doesn't even sound like itself. What is this sound? We say it's rock with no borders. If we decide to get heavy, we do. If an acoustic guitar is around, we'll work with that. If we can convince Tony to write some lyrics, well, then he sings lead. It's just like that.

Ever wonder why everyone loves The White Album by the Beatles but (almost) no one puts out a body of work like that anymore? I do. Before you get up in arms, may I say that I would not compare us to the legendary Beatles. But Helter Skelter and Rocky Raccon on the same disc? I like that idea. It seems like once we make a song, the mold is broken. We couldn't write another song like "High" if we were offered a large sum of money to do so. That's not to say we wouldn't try - we ain't above that, no, no, no. It's just that something about Patron Silver consumed in large quantities makes it hard to be boring, in music creation as well as general life.

A typical Monte Casino show brings out all kinds of characters - rockers, punks, skanks, businessmen, nannies, nerds, that guy with the lazy eye and a bad limp. They are rabid; that's why we are honoring a few of the best on our home page photo.

Do you belong?


artist: Mountain Mirrors
description: moody melodic prog rock
homepage: mountain_mirrors
state: MA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mountain_mirrors.jpg
bio:
Imagine Nick Drake, Pink Floyd, and Opeth jamming under a deep woods full moon, and you'll start to get a glimpse into Mountain Mirrors, the psych folk/rock project of multi-instrumentalist Jeff Sanders.

Sanders honed his guitar chops in the 80's jamming in metal/punk jam bands Shared Psychosis and Your Dirge, and blending original instrumental music with Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Slayer. As his tastes broadened, however, he began bringing in folk influences such as Nick Drake and Damien Rice, and creating the hypnotic folk-rock for which he is known today. It's this melodic yet mesmerizing sound that Sanders uses to explore issues of spirituality. Although his music expresses a deep yearning for enlightenment, it's Sanders' willingness to examine the eerie, lonely side of this quest that makes his music so powerful.

Though these dark, even spooky influences are definitely felt throughout his work, Sanders' music also contains a deep vein of introspection that keep it from being menacing. One reviewer described the first Mountain Mirrors album, Lunar Ecstasy, as a work "fit for poets, travelers and seekers," while another called it "the perfect chill-out album with brief touches of Delerium, Alice in Chains, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Portishead and The Tea Party." In February 2004, Lunar Ecstasy was named album of the month by both IndieSoundz and StonedGods, and "Afterlife" was chosen by Indie Music Beat Magazine for their annual 101 Great New Music Tracks CD.

The eponymous Mountain Mirrors album is Sanders' second full length album, and shows a deepening mastery of his intense, supernatural sound. Guest musicians include Elad Fish on drums and piano, Claire Fitch on cello, Oren Selas on keyboards, and Guy Bar-Tor on bass. "They're phenomenal, absolutely sent from heaven," says Sanders.

Says The Sound Monitor of Mountain Mirrors, "From atmospheric sounds to Massive Attack style trip-hop with your more standard acoustic guitar & soft singing tracks. The music takes you on numerous twists and turns throughout dark and beautiful landscapes from your dreams and nightmares."


artist: Mountain Sounds
description: a fresh new approach to lush indie pop
homepage: mountain_sounds
state: OR
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mountain_sounds.jpg
bio:
Mountain Sounds is an international recording project comprised of two songwriters who came together from very different parts of the world to create something new. Franc Castillejos was born and raised in Guatemala, but his path crossed with Tim Hoyt when he moved to Florida to attend school. The pair soon realized they shared a likeminded approach to crafting thoughtful, melancholy pop songs, and they began collaborating while Franc continued his work on a Recording Arts degree at Full Sail University. Their songs eventually took shape in the form of an indie rock band that toured extensively around the Southeast, and they shared the stage with established acts like Band of Horses and Manchester Orchestra while recording and releasing an EP that laid the groundwork for their future collaborations.

Unfortunately, just as their music career was picking up steam, an insurmountable obstacle appeared on the horizon: Franc's graduation. His student visa didn't allow him to stay in the United States after school, and there were surprisingly few work visas available for people who just wanted to play rock and roll. Having exhausted their options, the band was forced to come to a premature end. Franc reluctantly returned to his home in the mountains of Guatemala, where he opened a small recording studio with a focus on developing local talent, while Tim relocated to the indie rock mecca of Portland to pursue a whole new world of musical possibilities. It seemed like a good plan, but his initial optimism faded when he was unable to replicate the effortless creative chemistry he and Franc had shared. Meanwhile, though Franc started strong by releasing an EP of solo material, he eventually lost momentum too, frustrated by the limited scale of his pursuits in the small Central American country he called home. Eager for a fresh start after several fruitless years apart, the two decided to reconvene in Franc's studio, where they began work on something completely new.

They picked up right where they left off, and the results speak for themselves. Over the course of their creative partnership, Franc and Tim have continually honed and refined their craft, developing a sound that is instantly relatable yet wholly unique. Their songs are rooted in the grand tradition of classic pop music, where a strong melody is always the focal point, and accompaniment serves to highlight, rather than obfuscate, that focus. Their arrangements are sparse but meaningful; every part they play and every sound you hear has been labored over, whittled down, and reworked in the pursuit of a deliberate, untraditional production aesthetic all its own. The resulting songs, bolstered by rich harmonies and layered vocals, are undeniably catchy, yet complex and detailed enough to warrant repeated listens.

This process of writing and recording may sound daunting, and at times it is. That seems fitting for these two. A musical partnership separated by nations is a huge undertaking, after all. But a good song? For Franc and Tim, that's worth all the stress, all the effort, and all the work in the world.

You can also read about Mountain Sounds on their website.


artist: mr Epic
description: sultry triphop eclectic beats with soulful melodies.
homepage: mr_epic
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mr_epic.jpg
bio:
With the release of his debut album "Sideways", Seattle born native mr. epic gives us a heavy dose of sultry eclectic beats with soulful melodies and jazz influenced rhythms.

A long time drummer of nine years, epic (aka Taylor), made the crossover to production in 1998. After graduating in 2001 from the Art Institute of Seattle for audio production, Taylor has been locked in the studio ever since, honing his skills and talents to take his productions to the next level.


artist: Mr Gelatine
description: buzzy, trippy, glitchy melodic electronica
homepage: mr_gelatine
city: Cape Town
country: South Africa
bandphoto: /artists/img/mr_gelatine_new2.jpg
bio:
Cape Town based artist Mr.Gelatine has been involved in the electronic music scene for many years. Opening Dj sets for acts like Ectomorph, Patrick Pulsinger and Caribou. Musical collaborations with the vocalist Monogatari have evolved electronic tracks into song based arrangements. He performs live using Elektron hardware exclusively. He also works as one half of the electronic duo "The Black Machines".


artist: MRDC
description: eclectic electro-garage with soulful singing
homepage: mrdc
city: Pemberton
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/mrdc_new.jpg
bio:
MRDC is about making great albums. Remember those? Picture this, a Summer's evening, a beautiful sunset, your favorite beverage and good company. Mine is the music that supports the mood for these good times. More like the soundtrack in the background of your lives than the pop song on your car stereo.

Separating himself from the electronica DJ pack of producers Martin Richmond plays most of his own tracks as he is an accomplished multi-instrumental talent. Aside from the artist known as MRDC, Martin is a successful independent composer, sound designer and music producer with an impressive array of radio, television and film credits.

An early gig with the Record Plant's Gordon Fordyce (Motley Crue, Van Halen, Ozzy, P'Diddy, Tone Loc, TLC and Seal) helped Richmond to cement his own distinctive sound that blends diverse musical soundscapes to create a memorable mood for any story or living room.

Martin likens his intuitive music-making process to an electronic canvas, saying "anyone can throw paint on the wall and call it art, but a true artist instinctively chooses the best colours, shapes and textures...I don't follow formulas and yet my music works because I know how to blend all the right colors."


artist: Mundi
description: Early music meets global folk at the Penguin Caf&eacute;
homepage: mundi
state: TX
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mundi.jpg
bio:
Mundi displays a healthy disregard for where the boundaries of folk, classical and rock lie.

With strings, Spanish guitar, French horn and an arsenal of percussion, this dynamic sextet from Austin, Texas creates a sound that's rich, celebratory and deeply emotive. The ensemble, led by composer Darrel Mayers, has toured Spain three times, appearing once at the Granada International Festival of Music and Dance. They have also collaborated with poets Robert Bly and Coleman Barks, and the Grammy award-winning choral director Craig Hella Johnson of Conspirare. The band's favorite description of its sound? "Early music meets global folk at the Penguin Cafe."

Darrel Mayers (director, guitar) grew up in England's Southeast and graduated from tin-can drum kits to Spanish guitar as an 11-year old. He toured France and Spain with a school music group when he was 12, and has carried on playing ever since. A musical highlight was to perform with Mundi at the Granada Fesival of Music and Dance. Others include performing with poets Coleman Barks, Naomi Shihab Nye, and with Conspirare director Craig Hella Johnson. Favorite artists include the Penguin Cafe Orchestra, Freelance Whales, Steve Reich, Baltimore Consort, and Pink Floyd.

Bruce Colson (violin) was born in Los Angeles, California, and began playing his instrument when just seven years old. He currently performs with the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Bruce counts among the highlights of his career a performance for Prince Charles, touring Spain with Mundi, and performing with Led Zeppelin. He has also appeared on many soundtracks, including the Richard Linklater film 'A Scanner Darkly,' and 'Spy Kids.'

Margaret Ayer (French horn, harmonium) grew up in Denton, Texas, and began playing horn as an 11-year-old. A highlight of her career was playing in the Austin Symphony next her teacher, Wayne Barrington, while a student at the University of Texas. Out of college Margaret moved to Mexico City, and played with the Mexico City Philharmonic for 7 years. Margaret has played with the Houston Ballet orchestra for 20 years and has performed on the soundtrack for 'Spy Kids,' and appears on recordings by Sarah Hickman, Lee Barber and Eric Johnson.

Tony Rogers (cello) from Dallas, Texas began playing at age 10. "Cello, because the music teacher ran out of violins, then violas... But I knew I loved the cello far more than the violin very early on." Tony describes himself as "currently building my highlight reel for my musical career." Along with Mundi, Tony performs with Jenifer Jackson, the Austin Piazzolla Quintet, the Waterloo Trio, Quiet Company, Strings Attached, and has performed on the nationally radio show Mountain Stage. Tony has also composed music for several films and documentaries, including most recently "Wild Horse, Wild Ride." Current musical heroes: Chris Thile, Aviahai Cohen (bass), and Thom Yorke (Radiohead).

Mario Gonzalez (upright bass) is from San Antonio, and first picked up a bass guitar when he was 24-year-old. Mario is a retired fire-fighter, and says the highlights of his career include 'playing music with so many great musicians, and traveling and performing in Spain.' Mario has played with poet Coleman Barks, Craig Hella Johnson, and Spanish guitarist Ignacio Casatejada, and is currently performing with Topsy, Seno, and the Trulies.

Ric Furley (percussion) grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas. He began his musical career with piano at 9, and shifted to drums as an 11-year-old. Career highlights include performing with the Electric Light Orchestra, playing at President Obama's inaugural parade, and touring Spain with Mundi in 2006 and 2008. Ric has performed with David Amram, Dudley Moore, Bob McGrath, Junior Brown, Coleman Barks and Robert Bly. Favorite artists include Milt Jackson Lional Hampton, Richard Thompson, Berlin Symphony Orchestra, Tom Waits and the Electric Light Orchestra.

You can find out more about Mundi on their website.


artist: Music for a Winter's Eve
description: Early song and dance to celebrate midwinter
homepage: music_winter
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/music_winter_susan.jpg
bio:
Music for a Winter's Eve features soprano Susan Rode Morris, Shira Kammen on violin and singing alto, Eileen Hadidian on baroque flute and recorder, Maureen Brennan on Celtic harp and Julie Jeffrey on viola da gamba.

Every January, this group of musical friends would do a concert at St Alban's, choosing music for winter. The same people would come together on the project because they enjoyed playing music together. This album grew out of wanting to record the best of what they had done over several seasons, to offer it to their audience and so to help raise funds for the work of Healing Muses.

Hausmusik was created to allow Bay Area music lovers to experience chamber music in small, intimate settings, recreating the ambiance in which much 14th-18th Century music was performed at court, in small chapels, or in the drawing rooms of private homes, for family, friends and patrons. Beginning as a series of intimate, informal concerts in Bay Area homes, Hausmusik moved into the parish hall at St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Albany, making it a real community concert series the first such series in the city of Albany, for which director Eileen Hadidian received the city's 1992 Citizen of the Year in the Arts award.

Over the years, Hausmusik has helped support local musicians, particularly those interested in trying out new programs and exploring the crossover between early and ethnic music. The concerts, which were held in the St. Alban's parish hall an intimate yet acoustically live room reminiscent of an English manor house presented a varied cast of performers drawn from the wide pool of early music talent in the Bay Area. Each concert featured a different theme, spanning the late Middle Ages through the 18th Century.

Susan Rode Morris is a singer of unusual versatility whose accomplishments encompass a wide range of repertoire cmd musical stylcs. A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, she has received much critical acclaim for her expressiveness and naturlaness in singing, as well as her communicative presence.

She is a founding member of Ensemble Alcatraz and has sung with many ensembles including Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, American Bach Soloists, Sequentia Koln, Sex Chordae Consort of Viols, Magnificat, Women's Philharmonic, and FOOLIA! Susan has premiered numerous works by Bay Area composers, including opera and theater pieces.

She founded a recording compuny, Donsuemor, which has released three compact discs, including songs of Henry Purcell and the 18th century Scottish poet Robert Burns. A special love of Susan's is teaching children the joy of singing in small private schools. She owns a baking company (Donsuemor) which supplies the U.S. with fresh madeleines.

Shira Kammen received her degree in music from UC Berkeley and studied vielle with Margriet Tindemans. A member for many years of Ensembles Alcatraz, Project Ars Nova and Medieval Strings, she has also worked with Sequentia, Hesperion XX, the Boston Camerato, Anne Azema, Kitka, and the King's Noyse, and is the founder of Class V Music, an ensemble performing on river rafting trips.

Shira happily collaborated with singer/storyteller John Fleagle for fifteen years, and performs now with several new ensembles: Fortune's Wheel, a medieval ensemble; Ephemeros, a new music group; Panacea, an eclectic ethnic bond; and Trous Bras, a dance bond devoted to the music of Celtic Brittany. She has started hcr own recording label, Bright Angel Records.

Eileen Hadidian received her DMA in Early Music from Stanford University. She has appeared in concert throughout the western United States, and was the founder and artistic director of Hausmusik, an early music concert series in Albony, CA showcasing local musicians in new and innovative progrums.

She is the recipient of the annual Citizen in the Arts Award, given by the City of Albany to honor a significant contribution to the arts. Eileen's encounter with cancer has led her to explore ways in which music can help critically and chronically ill people by promoting relaxation, diffusing pain, and reducing anxiety.

Her non-profit organization, Healing Muses, brings healing music to Bay Area hospitals, hospices and convalescent homes, and is the recipient of grants from the east Bay Community Foundation and The Institute of Noetic Sciences.

Maureen Brennan is an accomplished performer, playing both early classical and Celtic music on the Irish harp. She has toured throughout the U.S. and Canada in a variety of ensembles, and has performed for sixteen years on cruise ships in Alaska and Tahiti.

She continues as a soloist for Irish and Scottish events throughout the Bay Area, and as the harper with Wake the Dead, a Celtic/Grateful Dead crossover band. Maureen's appearances include Son Francisco Performances at Six, Noontime Concerts at St. Patrick's Church, the Oakland and De Young Museums, the Lick Observatory Summer Music Series, the Festival of Harps, and the Freight and Salvage.

She teaches at conferences throughout the U.S. and has recorded five CDs, included the world acclaimed Harpestry collection.

Julie Jeffrey began her professional career in Chicago, where she served as assistant director of the University of Chicago Collegium Musicum under Howard Mayer Brown and Mary Springfels.

Since her move to the San Francisco Bay Area, she has appeared in concert with Magnificot, The Newberry Consort, A Sett of Vyalls, Class V Music, Flouti Diversi, the Carmel Bach Festival, and the California Shakespeare Festival, and she is a member of Sex Chordae Consort of Viols. With ensemble Sons Souci she has explored innovative reincarnations of old and new music, and with the Celtic ensemble Distant Oaks she continues to exercise her interest in expanding the viol's repertoire beyond conventional boundaries.


artist: Music Inside
description: funky bubbling electronic pop
homepage: music_inside
city: Montreal
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/music_inside.jpg
bio:
MUSIC INSIDE is Jeremie Arrobas and Luc Papineau

Jeremie is a founding and former member of the famous pop group "Men Without Hats"

He got involved with music when he was 13 years old, after his father gave him a 4 track reel to reel recorder for his birthday. Since then he has never stopped exploring the world of music. Experimenting with the sounds he generated using the feed-back of his recorder's microphone and creating ambient recordings with them (without the help of any musical instruments) he went on to discover the world of rhythms trough percussions and drums.

Jeremie really found his bliss when synthesizers, sequencers and rhythm machines came to exist. He believes that the emergence of that technology not only gave birth to a new musical genre, but that it also transformed him into the musician he is now.

His work can be heard on more than a dozen records, as a songwriter, singer, keyboard player, drummer, lyricist, and as a record producer.

Today he divides his time between his family, his business and his home recording studio.

-

After a few years studying architecture at University of Montreal and a major motorcycle crash that gave him a new perspective on life, Luc Papineau followed his instinct and started his musical career by co-founding Canada's own "The Box" in 1981. What started as a synthesizer and tape machines fiddling frenzy inspired by British prog and German electronic music of the 70's turned into a passion for sound recording and live mixing. After a few years with "The Box" scoring major hits on Canadian charts, Luc started a freelance career, mixing radio and TV jingles, recording albums and film soundtracks among which the Academy Awards nominee "Les Triplettes de Belleville".

During all these years Luc has always seen the studio-computer as the ultimate creation tool, both from a musical and technical point of view. He is still engineering full time from his home-based studio in Montreal while remaining close to his kids...best of both worlds.

-

Although Luc and Jeremie went down different paths throughout the years, the connection remained. They met in the 80's and worked together on various musical ventures, and again in 2006, when Jeremie approached Luc for the recording of a French album.

They worked for a year and discovered they had too many music affinities and that they had to find a way to explore them further. So they started recording one, then a second and a third song only to confirm it was just the tip of the iceberg.

Finally it's in 2007 that MUSIC INSIDE was created and a first album "Outside Forces" was released followed by a second one, "Silicon Sandwich" in 2009.

MUSIC INSIDE combines writing skills with arrangements, programming, performing, producing and recording skills.

MUSIC INSIDE is a unique alloy combining imagination, spontaneity and practical thinking.

MUSIC INSIDE is an association designed to liberate the "music inside" while being guided by outside forces.


artist: Music of the Spheres
description: small Baroque chamber ensemble
homepage: spheres
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/spheres.jpg
bio:
Music of the Spheres, formed in 2000, is a member of Early Music America's Touring Artists Roster and has performed across the United States and abroad, including mainstage concerts at the Bloomington and Berkeley Early Music Festivals, and performances on the San Francisco Early Music Society and Indianapolis Early Music series.

The group made its European debut at the 2006 Tage Alter Musik Festival in Regensburg, Germany, and was featured in the European chamber music magazine Ensemble. In 2007, they performed on The Frick Collection Series in New York, with a New York Times review and a WNYC broadcast of their concert and interview. Music of the Spheres has been broadcast on "Harmonia" and "Performance Today."

We believe that music exists to captivate the imagination, stir memories, and evoke intensely personal emotions in both listener and performer alike, and we desire to bring a wider audience to classical music through performances which focus on these aspects. We enjoy giving lively, fun and informative performances, and are available for concerts, series, festivals, recordings and master classes.

Jeanne Johnson, Baroque violin
Joanna Blendulf, Baroque cello and viola da gamba
Yuko Tanaka, harpsichord and fortepiano

Jeanne Johnson is a soloist and chamber musician on both Baroque and modern violin. She is a winner of Early Music America's 2002 Professional Development Award for soloists.

Her performances on numerous series, tours, festivals and recordings in the United States and abroad have resulted in National Public Radio, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and local broadcasts. Jeanne has played with many groups including Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Tafelmusik, Portland Baroque Orchestra, Apollo's Fire, Boston Baroque, Bloomington Baroque, the Carmel Bach Festival, the Bach Aria Festival, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and the Berkeley and Bloomington Early Music Festivals.

She has served as concertmaster of the Atlanta Baroque Orchestra and as orchestra director, violin teacher and chamber music coach at Clayton College and State University in Atlanta. After starting violin at age 5, Jeanne made her solo debut with orchestra at 11 and won first place in the Milwaukee Symphony Youth Soloist Competition at 16.

She studied with James Buswell and Stanley Ritchie, receiving her bachelor's degree in performance with honors from Indiana University and her master's degree with distinction in performance and academics from New England Conservatory. Aside from early and classical music, Jeanne's interests include folk, crossover and world music. In addition to playing violin, Jeanne is also a writer, editor, painter and classical radio announcer.

Joanna Blendulf has diverse interests in music, performing a wide range of repertoire on both cello and viola da gamba. She has received performance degrees from both the Cleveland Institute of Music and Indiana University, where she studied with Stanley Ritchie, Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi and Alan Harris.

In 1998, Joanna was awarded the prestigious Performer's Certificate from Indiana University for outstanding performance in baroque cello. Spending much of her time in transit, she is currently performing with the Portland Baroque Orchestra, the New York Collegium, Apollo's Fire, American Bach Soloists, Musica Angelica and Camerata Pacifica Baroque (Santa Barbara).

Joanna is also an active chamber musician, performing with the all-female ensemble Bimbetta as well as Mirable and Florilegia, all based in the Bay Area where she resides. She was named honorable mention in the 2000 EMA/Dorian competition for her recording of the Jean Zewalt Triemer cello sonatas.

Joanna Blendulf also performs with Ensemble Mirable.

Yuko Tanaka, harpsichordist, is active as a soloist and an ensemble player. She has performed at the Carmel Bach Festival, Berkeley Festival and Exhibition, Bloomington Early Music Festival, and in broadcast events for National Public Radio and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

She performs with numerous ensembles including Musica Pacifica, El Mundo, Ensemble 6-4-2, American Bach Soloists, Moscow Chamber Orchestra, and The Women's Philharmonic. Yuko received a doctorate in early music from Stanford University and has studied with Margaret Fabrizio at Stanford, Gustav Leonhardt in Amsterdam, and Ketil Haugsand in Oslo, Norway. She has recorded for Koch International and Delos International.


artist: Musica Franca
description: buoyant Baroque bassoon
homepage: musica_franca
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/musica_franca.jpg
bio:
"The performances are light and transparent-fast movements, wonderfully weightless... This is ensemble playing of great mutual respect and undeniable musicality." -Alex Baran, WholeNote Magazine, February 2006

Known for an inspired synthesis of French and Italian styles, Musica Franca is dedicated to performing the lush compositions written for bassoon and continuo during the baroque period-in particular the work of composers Michel Corrette and Joseph Bodin de Boismortier.

Corrette and Boismortier lived during one of France's most politically turbulent times, but each wrote deeply warm, genial music. Musica Franca easily captures the playful, inventive spirit of Corrette's compositions, with many of the movements displaying the all-or-nothing passion that characterized much of his work. The Boismortier sonatas, by contrast, are treated with infinite subtlety and feline grace-played by Musica Franca with the utmost virtuosity that his work demands. The performances, in fact-with their infinite variations and nuances-reveal the skills that allowed Boismortier to become one of the first composers to succeed without a patron...able to make his living entirely by writing new works of music.

Through careful selection of the most interesting pieces by these composers, Musica Franca offers a fresh, charismatic perspective on their work. Instrumentation is varied - sometimes even within the same piece - in order to bring out the widest range of tonal colors, and Musica Franca performs the music in the same spirit of pleasure as many musicians of the 18th century: light, nimble interpretations performed with both nuance and joy.

The founding members of Musica Franca (pictured above left to right) are Mathieu Lussier, basssoon; Nadina Mackie Jackson, bassoon; and Fraser Jackson, contrabassoon.


artist: Musica Pacifica
description: Baroque and traditional music from England, Scotland and Ireland
homepage: musica_pacifica
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/musica_pacifica_2.jpg
bio:
Musica Pacifica has, since its founding in 1990, become widely recognized as one of America's premier baroque ensembles, lauded for both the dazzling virtuosity and the warm expressiveness of its performances. Called "some of the finest baroque musicians in America" (American Record Guide) and "among the best in the World" (Alte Musik Aktuell, Regensburg),

Musica Pacifica is composed of four highly accomplished musicians;

Judith Linsenberg (recorder)
Elizabeth Blumenstock (baroque violin)
David Morris (baroque cello and viola da gamba)
Charles Sherman (harpsichord)

On their album "Dancing in the Isles" they perform with guest musicians:

Robert Mealy (baroque violin)
Charles Weaver (theorbo and baroque guitar)
Peter Maund (percussion)

At home in the San Francisco Bay Area, these artists are masters of their repertoire who regularly perform with Philharmonia Baroque, American Bach Soloists and other prominent early music ensembles across the country and around the world. Musica Pacifica combines this world-class musicianship with imaginative programming and a spirited performing style, bringing electricity, brilliance, and exuberant vitality to its performances of the intimate chamber music of the Baroque. The Washington Post noted: "the effect was transporting - a small miracle of precision and musical electricity."

Such enthusiasm - from both the press and the public - has marked two decades of Musica Pacifica performances, and has won the ensemble an international reputation as early music specialists. Its programs are carefully crafted to showcase the charm, elegance, and diversity of 17th- and 18th-century music, with the core group frequently joined by world renowned guest artists in varying combinations of recorder, oboe, violin, cello/gamba, harpsichord, lute/guitar, voice, additional strings and percussion.

Over the years, Musica Pacifica has brought one inventive, beautifully performed program after another to some of the most prestigious concert series in the U.S., including Music Before 1800 and the Frick Collection (NY), the Getty Museum (Los Angeles), the Cleveland Art Museum, the Pittsburgh Renaissance and Baroque Society, the Seattle Early Music Guild, Early Music Now in Milwaukee, the Houston Early Music Society, the Los Angeles County Museum, the San Diego Early Music Society, and the Cambridge Early Music Society, among many others. The ensemble has been featured at the Berkeley Early Music Festival three times, and their first appearance there was cited in Early Music (UK) as "perhaps the standout of the entire festival." Musica Pacifica has also received international acclaim for its performances in Austria and Germany. Broadcast audiences have heard the ensemble on German National Radio, as well as on National Public Radio's "Performance Today" and "Harmonia," and Minnesota Public Radio.

Musica Pacifica's eight recordings - including repertoire by J.S. Bach, Vivaldi, Alessandro Scarlatti, Marin Marais, Telemann, Francesco Mancini, as well as Baroque and traditional music from the British Isles - are marked by what Goldberg Magazine (Spain) called "elegant, stylish, and thankfully unmannered performances." They have been lauded in the classical music press, garnering the highest ratings in classical CD magazines and repeatedly being chosen as "CD of the Month" by the early music journal Alte Musik Aktuell."

Musica Pacifica's 2007 release, "Fire Beneath My Fingers", was a featured recording on Minnesota Public Radio, and called "one of the most exciting Baroque recordings I've heard" by a reviewer in Audiophile Audition. The Telemann CD was described by Early Music America Magazine as "superbly elegant...exemplifying the finest in historical performance today," and went on to win the Chamber Music America/WQXR Record Award for 2003, honoring the best chamber music recordings of the year. Musica Pacifica's CDs have also won international recognition; the Mancini recording was cited in 2000 as a "Noteworthy Disc" at the International Antonio Vivaldi Awards for Italian Early Music in Venice. To have earned such honors, truly, in the words of Fanfare Magazine, "this is playing to ravish the senses."

Online, Musica Pacifica may be heard on radio station 1.fm, and on Last.fm; and seen on YouTube. Please also visit their website for more information about them and to purchase their other recordings.


artist: Musical Mandalas
description: Electronic guitar meets mandalas with an ambient feel
homepage: musical_mandalas
state: CT
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/musicalmandalas.jpg
bio:
Having experimented with ambient guitar and keyboard techniques, musician Michael J. Goldberg began releasing music as Musical Mandalas in 2010. Starting with minimalistic, space-like synths and layered guitars, Goldberg continued to explore his ambient styles which evolved into many albums - each with slightly different atmospheric feelings and musical styles.

From electric guitars, to strings, to synths, Musical Mandalas has a knack for combining electronic music with classical, while maintaining a relaxing and mysterious feel, with just the right balance of dark and light, and of dissonance and melody.

Michael also plays lead guitar in rock band Audio Jane, has produced for various CT-based artists, and has written music for TV and film. He currently lives in Tariffville, CT.


artist: Mutandina
description: funk jazz salsa rock from Argentina
homepage: mutandina
city: La Plata
country: Argentina
bandphoto: /artists/img/mutandina2.jpg
bio:
Mutandina means mixing, "mestizaje". Mutandina mixes styles to create a musical result that is different and personal, where influences as jazz, salsa, funk, rock, pop, Brazilian and Latin American music can be found.

The lyrics present reality from a critical but almost optimistic viewpoint, as well as showing a grotesque or ironic side, where speech relaxes and gives place to joy and dance.

The members of Mutandina met in the early 90s as composition students at Argentina's La Plata National University. Each of them spent several years with different bands, becoming familiar with the club circuit, and gaining a perspective that was more about nightlife and the social scene than academics.

They formed Mutandina in early 2000 with the intent of creating a sound that was distinct and personal, without rigid style or preconceptions, and drew on the vivid mixture of styles that was part of their individual experience: jazz, salsa, funk, rock, pop, Brazilian and Latin American music. The result is a decidedly hip blend of salsa and funk, infused with distinctly Argentine elements.

The members of Mutandina are:
* Ariel "Cordero" Polenta - piano, Wurlitzer, Hammond, keys, voices, arrangements
* Christian "Turco" Fahiad - drums, percussion
* Nicolas Luis Humberto "Rigo" Quesada - guitars, voices
* Marcos "Mariomarqueti" Archetti - bass, voices
* Matias "Mato" Ruiz - acoustic and electric guitars, tenor sax, composition, arrangements and lead vocals. Matias is the brother of Magnatune classical musician Gonzalo Ruiz.
  
Produced by Alberto Tatu Estela.
  Recorded at Circo Beat and other venues between November 2003 and May 2004.


artist: My Equinox Divine
description: Electropop with hints of darksynth, indie pop, and trip hop
homepage: my_equinox_divine
city: Tbilisi
country: Georgia
bandphoto: /artists/img/my_equinox_divine.jpg
bio:
My Equinox Divine is a project by electropop duo Mancho and Archil from P.I.Light, a metal band from Tbilisi, Georgia.

Manana (Mancho) is a musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, music video director and visual artist. Her music incorporates elements of varied styles and genres, including alternative rock, metal, synthpop, electro pop, indie, trip hop, and experimental pop.

Archil is a musician, professional guitar teacher, guitar and bass player, visual artist, sound and lightning engineer.

The two artists created the band P.I.Light in 2007, with Archil as a bassist and Mancho as songwriter and front woman.

Besides many other gigs and events, P.I.Light performed at Blitzkrieg Metalfest (Georgia) in 2008, at Rock the Borders fest (Armenia), Highland Metalfest (Armenia), and Altervision (Georgia) in 2010, at Metal Domination in 2011, at Plus One Fest and Persian Rock & Metal Fest in 2013, at Plus One Open Air 2014, and at Tbilisi Jam! Fest Open Air in 2015.

The duo released its debut album, "Doomsday Kid. Diaries" with AMAdea Records (Bulgaria) in 2010. In the same year, P.I.Light signed a contract with Eclipse Records (USA) for the inclusion of their track "Iron Worm" on the Streetcult Loud Music Compilation CD - Vol.15, of which 10,000 copies were sold in the USA and which saw them promoted alongside several major artists. That year, Mancho also performed with The Forest, an electronic music producer.

In 2018, the artists decided to start a new band and experiment with a different genre. Their debut EP "Alchemy" was released the same year. This was followed by a collaboration with L'Âme Immortelle, an Austrian darkwave duo, which resulted in the mini - album "Letztes Licht" in 2019. That same year, they played at Sofar Sounds, and were the support band at Nachtmahr show and various local gigs.

My Equinox Divine's debut album "Of Glitters and Zen" was self-released in 2020 during the lockdown period. Their single "ākāśa" was released shortly after. So far, the band has produced four official music videos and theatre soundtracks.


artist: My Woshin Mashin
description: Crossover-Electronic, Chaos-Pop
homepage: woshin_mashin
city: Tver
country: Russia
bandphoto: /artists/img/my_woshin_mashin.jpg
bio:
My Woshin Mashin (that's right - My Woshin Mashin, MWM) was created by 3 friends from Russia and Germany. It happened in 2010 when Bibi and Hugo left their previous bands and decided to make something new and different.

Together with Scherman (their German friend who lives in Berlin) they gave a strange name to the project - My Woshin Mashin. Later, under the influence of german dance tunes, Mike Patton stuff, English metal bands and old school music, these three aliens released their first demo-tape "Amazing Demo", extended play "We Came in Peace" and their first long-play "Mawama" which was "amazing 9/10" by P.Lindstrom of Brutal Resonance E-Zine, "funkelnden Kitsch" by C.Kutzer of Zillo Magazine.

In 2013 MWM released their second album under the name "Evil Must Die" and... everybody just loves this album. Also MWM recorded the main theme for the indie XBOX game "Motorbike Stunt Agent Julie" by Mattini games. Right now the band is based in Berlin and Twer and working on the next album.


artist: Myles Cochran
description: mellow, soulful alt-country
homepage: myles_cochran
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/myles_cochran.jpg
bio:
Born and raised in Kentucky, Myles Cochran's childhood was immersed in music: folk and jazz on his parents' stereo, country and Southern soul on the car radio, classical in his grandfather's painting studio, and the British Invasion in his bedroom. When he began playing guitar and writing songs, this experience led him to his own atmospheric combination of country, folk and rock.

Migrating to New York, Myles played in bands at venues like CBGB and the C Note, and established himself as an inventive recording engineer and producer. Myles has recently moved to London. "Being in England is amazing. I'm living in a place that was important to so many of my favorite artists: Jimi Hendrix, Emmylou Harris, the Pretenders, PJ Harvey."

In addition to bringing his music to London's live music scene, Myles is working on his next CD in his "retro-techno" recording studio, where he also engineers and produces for other singer-songwriters.


artist: Mystified
description: mysterious, hypnotic, lovely, drones
homepage: mystified
state: MO
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/mystifiedphoto_2.jpg
bio:
Thomas Park has been involved with music for his entire life. He was trained in classical and jazz music as a teenager, and played the trombone and piano. His listening habits changed in the late 1980's, and Thomas became interested in electronic music. After several years of writing techno as the band AutoCad, Thomas was fortunate enough to collaborate with Robin Storey of Rapoon. This project helped Thomas to evolve into the ambient / drone band Mystified. Mystified has found considerable success, both through online and physical releases, and is known for being proficient, creative and prolific.

The music of Mystified is mainly of an atmospheric nature. Sometimes for Thomas less is more, making his music ideal for listening while working, sleeping or doing other things. The music of Mystified especially explores texture, consistency, and a type of variety that could be called subtle. This is not the utopian ambient of the typical soundscape artist. It is serious music for serious people.

Mystified music has found many purposes, including scores for films, online and terrestrial radio shows, festivals of aesthetic, political, and other varieties, informational cd-roms, spots on many scores of compilations, and quite a few independent releases.


artist: Nathan Mathes
description: melody-driven indie-folk
homepage: nathan_mathes
state: WI
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/nathan_mathes.jpg
bio:
Nathan Mathes is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, home-recordist from Green Bay, Wisconsin. His music can best be described as indie-folk, in the vein of Elliott Smith and Iron and Wine.

After years of fronting indie-rock bands in Green Bay, Mathes released American Whitecaps, his first solo record, in the summer of 2010.

Working at home in his basement studio during the winter and spring of 2010, Mathes played all of the instruments, recorded, and mixed American Whitecaps entirely on his own. The record was mastered by Justin Perkins at The Mystery Room, Milwaukee, in June of 2010.

Along with the record, Mathes released an accompanying book, Thoughts On And The Making Of American Whitecaps - an account of the months spent recording American Whitecaps.

"Guitars are chunky but clear, the subdued bass and drums anchor the mix without dragging everything into a muddy bottom, leaving a light, uncluttered sonic space through which the unpretentious melody ambles. Lyrics are intriguingly difficult to decipher...That kind of elusiveness I can get behind. The song casts a humble spell; there is nothing immediately special about it except for an ineffable sense that there is in fact something special about it."
Fingertipsmusic.com


artist: Neurobic
description: Urban pop music for those about to dance
homepage: neurobic
city: Velenje
country: Slovenia
bandphoto: /artists/img/neurobic_low.jpg
bio:
Neurobic is the culmination of the varied talents of two experienced and diverse producers along with the vocal talents of Sara J.

Neurobic is mainly oriented in composing vocal led urban pop dance music. Blending elements of early 20th century dancehall, jazz, rock and electronic music, Neurobic guarantees a stunningly memorable dance sound experience..

Sara Janjic aka Sara J is a female vocalist who lends her impressive voice to several projects. She was on the Roxy Remodelled compilation album released by BasicLux Records (USA) with her cover of "Beauty Queen" by Roxy Music. She also appears on Mistle Toe compilations on the same label, singing Silent Night with the band Neurobic. Sara J. was an essential part of the Mindless album by Arsov, where she featured in five songs. The album was released in Chicago.

Arsov Aleksander aka Arsov is an experienced songwriter and producer. Releasing seven albums in cooperation with various musicians, he has also feautered on eight compilation albums.

Stane Spegel aka Monom aka Housemouse is a well-known electronic music producer, songwriter, remixer and multimedia artist. Releasing 14 albums and another 8 with different groups, Stane is constantly evolving in both his studio and with his live performances.


artist: Nick Kingsley
description: Melodic Drum and Bass, Electronica and Techno
homepage: nick_kingsley
city: Sherborne
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/nick_kingsley.jpg
bio:
Nick Kingsley's musical style would be hard to pigeon hole. Drawing influence from a vast array of different musical styles to create something original and authentic. Nick was first introduced to the world of music composition when he picked up the guitar aged 13 and never looked back.

He later went on to study music composition at the Academy of Contemporary Music in the UK, where he realized that music would become his career.

He has composed the scores for a number of short films and documentaries in the UK, but recently has pursued the production of electronica music, in particular specializing in Drum and Bass.

Nick feels that the melody and harmony of a song is as important in Drum and Bass as it is in any other genre of music and makes sure that this shows through in all his compositions.

Those interested in the emotive, thoughtful side of electronica would not be disappointed when listening to Nicks tracks, with many of his compositions focusing on the delicate and atmospheric ambience that electronic music can provide.


artist: Nigel Martin
description: quality guitar driven instrumental music
homepage: nigel_martin
city: Uttoxeter
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/nigel_martin.jpg
bio:
Nigel Martin is a hugely experienced guitarist, composer and producer based in the United Kingdom with well over 20 years of playing and recording experience writing music in a wide range of styles covering rock, jazz, blues, acoustic, fusion, classical and electronic.

His music is generally instrumental and perfectly complements films, advertisements and radio based projects. He is also a lecturer and provides expert advice on both recording technology and music performance at educational establishments around the UK.

Nigel has performed both as a solo artist and within various bands covering a wide range of styles including Progressive Rock, Blues, Jazz, Experimental and Fusion based genres.

You can hear more of Nigel's music on his SoundCloud page.


artist: Nightfall Project
description: spiritual new age for today's world
homepage: nightfall_project
city: Den Haag
country: Netherlands
bandphoto: /artists/img/nightfall.jpg
bio:
Nightfall connects unconditional love of life, music, dance, and the earth. A singer, professional dancer, and player of five instruments, her music is essentially an exploration of the heart and a homage to the Mother Goddess. In her own words "All the songs are inspired by mother Earth and the universal language of Love."

Nightfall's music orients consciousness to a state of peace on the Earth, while also heightening awareness to the problems we face living on Gaia today. The love and connection to our planet is felt through all her music.

Nightfall's mixture of different styles, electronic and organic sounds, and different themes befits the age we live in today, allowing the modern mind to relax and feel at home on the beautiful earth which sustains and makes all possible.

Using all she has in her musical arsenal, she allows us to put our ear to the ground, be still, and truly listen to the rhythms transmitted from and inspired by Mother Earth. Destiny is intricately interwoven with our Great Mother, and it only requires listening to the heartbeat of nature to remember this destiny.


artist: Ninety Pounds of Ugly
description: country, rockabilly, western swing and lounge
homepage: ninety_pounds
city: Ottawa
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/ninety.jpg
bio:
Blood, sweat and beer aptly describes Ottawa, Canada's, Ninety Pounds of Ugly as they churn out country-tinged, rockabilly-infused, obscenity-sprinkled tales of drinking, stinking and thinking.

Patsy Clash leads the band with her fiery crooning and spit-in-your-face attitude. Raised on a diet of Teenage Head and Nick Cave, Patsy brings a saucy sex appeal to the band, putting a high-ball sheen on some low-brow topics covered in such soon-to-be-classics as "I'm Out of Your League", "Venom In My Denim", "I'm Your Little Love Bug" and "Ugly Stick".

This is Patsy's first band, and she finds herself surrounded by seasoned veterans: Lefty McRighty (Lefty McRighty and the Boxcar Cadavers, The Polymorphines) on guitar, Stand-Up Steve (The Kingmakers, Ray Harris, Uncle Sean, Jimmy George) on upright bass, and Ernie Legend (Mike Plume Band, The Populars) on drums.

Patsy and the gang put a fresh new spin on classic musical styles, creating a versatile blend of country, rockabilly, western swing and lounge.


artist: Noise HiFi
description: scary and dark textures from Sweden
homepage: noise_hifi
city: Stockholm
country: Sweden
bandphoto: /artists/img/noise_hifi.jpg
bio:
Noise HIFI a new project led by the Swedish Producer and bassplayer Ulf "Rockis" Ivarsson introduces a Dark Ambient and Industrial journey with lots of scary drones and textures.

Formed in 2007, Noise Hifi was inspired by bands and artists like Throbbing Gristle, Lull, Mokira, Einsturzende Neubaten and Lustmord. With his new project, "Rockis" wanted to make a different approach compared to his Dub/Ambient/Experimental project Beatundercontrol.

On the debut album Red Distortion Ulf Ivarsson who previously has toured and recorded with artists such as Thastrom, Sky High, Bill Laswell, Youth (Killing Joke, The Orb) Tatsuya Yoshida and Hedningarna (The Heathens) moves in a new direction. With repetitive drones, noises and manipulated textures, Noise Hifi redefines the world of Dark Ambient and Industrial Music.

The title track Red Distortion is a minimalistic pulsating composition based on three different ambient elements. Ships, the second track, contains ambient noises and treated atmospheres with some cutting edge deep bass drones and throbbing analogue synths. Darklands Dub, opens with scary, dark athmospheres before it takes off with a distorted synthezised beat. The composition is built around the energic and sonic boom-dub electric bassline and with its typical "mute and fade dub" technique the whole track have a pure dub feel. 21 minutes and 44 seconds long Around the Lake the album's final track is the darkest moment on the album, with different dark mine sounds and arpeggiated analog synthesizers.

For the Red Distortion sessions "Rockis" invited his friend and employer Joakim Thastrom for some Pro One (mono analouge synthesizer) overdubs. "Rockis" has played with Thastrom since 2005 and last year produced Thastrom's latest Swedish Grammy Award-winning album Karlek ar for dom.

Thastrom is one of the most profilic and best known rock musicians in Scandinavia. He started his career in the celebrated Swedish punk band Ebba Gron (1977-1983) and reached an even bigger audience with the equally influential indie rock band Imperiet (1983-1988). In 1989 Thastrom started his solo career as with his self titled solo album Thastrom. In 1991 he released the follow up: Xplodera mig 2000 (Xplode Me 2000), an album that was extremely computer-based and in 1992 led to the development of the heavy industrial rock band band Peace Love & Pitbulls. Before their break-up in 1997 the band released three studio albums.

Through the years Thastrom has moved between a number of genres, from punk to rock, electronic music and autobiographical singer-songwriter music. In 1999 Thastrom continued his solo career and have so far recorded 6 successful solo albums that have established him as one of the most important artists in Sweden.

With the release of Noise HiFi's debut album, both "Rockis" and Thastrom continues their mission to break down musical borders, find new paths and create new exiting ways to express themselves.

You can also check Ulf's second project here on Magnatune, Beat Under Control and more information on his own website or MySpace page.


artist: Norine Braun
description: jazzed up, funk-tinged eclectic pop.
homepage: norine
state: British Columbia
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/norine.jpg
bio:
Norine Braun's music has always existed on its own terms, falling into that titillating, refreshingly original space to the left of "trendy," craftily sidestepping the all-too-easily-dismissed stigma often applied to the "female singer/songwriter," and freewheeling unhindered around the rigid shackles of "genre. "

Along with savvy producer and multi-instrumentalist James Bowers, Braun has accumulated an extraordinary discography of unpretentious, personal songs anchored by her sweet, confident voice and genteel composition. Together, the pair crafts tuneful, friendly songs with subtle but effective arrangements, dynamic and graceful and memorable.

Now, Braun is back with her fifth CD, NOW & ZEN, and on these fourteen tracks Braun shows an even greater depth and maturity. NOW & ZEN expands on her penchant for jazzed up, funk-tinged pop, and shows this gifted songstress taking bold steps on her soulful journey into self-exploration. The torch song, "Move the Clouds," is evocative and inspirational, anchored by easy lounge piano and a melody as delicate as flower petals. The groovy "J'en Suis Desolee" showcases Braun's confident rap, surprising and rocking with an edgy explosion of homegirl verve.

Artsy and intellectual, tuneful and savvy, Norine Braun will zing to the heart of any listener. Norine Braun's repertoire ranges from ethereal, reflective moods to sizzling bluesy rock that test the limit of popular music. She is inspired by the struggle to find meaning in the human experience. Her lyrics, although provocative, do not lose touch with her whimsical nature.


artist: Nova Casa
description: Baroque chamber music from Poland
homepage: nova_casa
city: Warsaw
country: Poland
bandphoto: /artists/img/novacasa.jpg
bio:
The Nova Casa period instruments ensemble was founded in 2005 by a group of experienced musicians who had been playing with larger early music ensembles in Poland. It was formed by these talented musicians out of passionate dedication to the style and professional performance of specific types of music of the baroque and classical eras.

The Nova Casa play a broad and varied repertoire of music from these eras, executed on period instruments with full respect for the historical performance style. All the musicians possess a rich concert experience, both at home an abroad, which enables free interpretation of the music they play. The members of Nova Casa try to introduce their audience to the abundance of the Baroque music with its variety and scope. The ensemble also occasionally delves into other musical idioms from such countries as France, Italy, and Germany which provides a large context for their baroque and classical selections.

The Nova Casa ensemble also offers in its programme works by Adam Jarzebski (1590-1648), Marcin Mielczewski (1600-1651) and Stanislaw Sylwester Szarzynski (ca.1700), showing Polish baroque music within the context of stylistic achievements of European music of these days.

Recent performances by Nova Casa include the Huygens Museum in The Hague (4 october 2006) and the ensemble also participated in Van Wassenaer Concours and Festival. Nova Casa has also performed during a Polish Radio broadcast from the ceremony mass at the Evangelical-Reformed Church in Warsaw as well as a concert of Italian baroque music in the Church for Artistic Milieux in Warsaw. At present, the ensemble performs at: XVII Early Music Festival in Warsaw, the "Cruciixus Est" Festival in Warsaw, and at the Wawel Royal Castle in Cracow.

Nova Casa ensemble members include Ewa Mrowca, Agnieszka Rychlik, Maria Papuzinska-Uss, Jakub Kosciukiewicz and Anton Birula.The name of the ensemble (Nova Casa) comes from the title of the pieces by Adam Jarzebski (1590-1648)-acomposer, poet and architect of the Ujazdowski Castle in Warsaw.


artist: Nova Express
description: punk-n-roll
homepage: nova_express
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/nova_express2.jpg
bio:
Powerful and melodic, fast rock-n-roll from New York City! Born and bred in New York's Lower East Side, Nova Express' creative song writing force is generated by founding members Mike Dee-Bass & Vocals (New York) and Eric Robel-Drums (Baltimore, MD), based on the concept of bringing together fast high-energy punk with the twin guitar assault of Motor City Rock-n-Roll. Supported by long-time member David Acampora-Rhythm guitar (L.A.), original lead guitarist Danny Mackane (NY), and more recently Suke of Snuka fame (NY) bringing in high caliber guitar work, the result is pure rock and roll: fast and ferocious, hard, heavy and loud.

Watch Nova Express's video of their song "Gimme Some More." You can view or download the entire quicktime movie.

To date, NE have been featured on a variety of national and international Indie labels such as Devil Doll, TeePee/Victory, Rue Morgue, Vicious Kitten, Myrmecoleo and now Magnatune! An upcoming Reptilian Records comp featuring Nova Express covering a Dead Boys song is also slated. Being well reviewed from such magazines as Carbon 14, Punk ! magazine, L.A. Weekly, Screech Magazine and Toxic Flyer have helped gather the attention Nova Express has gained to pull off packed shows wherever they play. Sal Canzonieri of Electric Frankenstein says "Nova Express is the best of the new breed of Rock-n-Rollers."

NE has toured up and down the east and west coast in such cities as NY, Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC, Columbus, LA, SF, and SD with other bands such as: Candy Snatchers, Electric Frankenstein, Zeke, The Bullys, Street Walkin' Cheetahs, Texas Terri and The Black Halos. All with great audience reception. 11 songs, recorded at the famous LoHo Studios in New Yorks' Lower East Side by Engineer Joe Hogan, is the result of the bands' best to date entitled "Gimme Some" available here in downloadable form.


artist: Nuform
description: Innovative, emotional and trippy electronic music
homepage: nuform
city: Perugia
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/nuform.jpg
bio:
Nuform is the alias of Italian composer and producer Simone Mencarelli creating groovy and innovative music in the Electronic, Lounge, Chillout, Ambient, Dance, Hip Hop, Dramatic, and Soundscape genres.

Simone started his career as a DJ, doing gigs in Italy and Europe, participating in events like Street Parade in Zurich, Switzerland. Music production and music synthesis always attracted his attention and in 2001 he teamed up with some friends and together they set up their first recording studio. Later, in 2004, he split his collaboration with his friends and started his own recording studio, where he constantly produces new music, sounds and loop libraries.

Simone's partner list includes EMI Music, Warner Chappell, major studios, and technology companies that develop software and hardware for music production. Over the past 10 years, he has released music under different names on many major global record labels, and his tracks have been included in hit compilation releases that reached top charting status.

Original, sophisticated, and intoxicating are just some of the words that describe his music.

You can find out more bout Simone on his website.


artist: Numa
description: Hard rock with a heart
homepage: numa
state: VA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/numa_low.jpg
bio:
Numa delivers blazing rock 'n roll with a groove that's been absent from the genre for decades. Formed in late 2005, this explosive quartet has quickly solidified their reputation as one of the premiere unsigned live acts in the Mid-Atlantic region. Fusing together honest and memorable songwriting with a brazen intensity, this dynamic band has managed to create an anthemic sound that is truly arena ready.

Billboard Magazine called Numa's single "Like a Bruise" a "Fantastic rock song with so many great elements" after awarding it a 'Best Rock Song' prize in their 16th Annual World Song Contest amidst thousands of entries. The song is also currently in FM and College rotation at stations across the Mid-Atlantic region and as far west as Las Vegas. The band's high energy live performances have ignited many notable venues including The 9:30 Club, Rams Head Live, RFK Stadium, and most recently The House of Blues garnering rave reviews and an army of new supporters. Having easily found their way into the hearts of true music fans across the country, Numa's popularity is a testament to the fact the great American rock is here to stay.

Notable Achievements:

- Winner in the Billboard Magazine 16th Annual World Song Contest amidst thousands of entries with their single "Like a Bruise"

- Performed alongside Avenged Sevenfold and Saving Abel at their sold-out House of Blues show in Myrtle Beach - 11/08

- Selected as a finalist in the annual DC101 Last Band Standing Competition - 4/08

- Selected as a 2009 'Artist to Watch' by Skope Magazine - 1/09

- Performed in front of thousands of fans at Blocktoberfest 2007 held at RFK Stadium - 10/07

- Single "Like a Bruise" in rotation on numerous FM Stations in the Mid-Atlantic region

- Currently headline and sell out 800+ capacity venues in the Washington DC area

Sound Description:
Chad Burrows' intense wail draws comparisons to both Geddy Lee and Brandon Boyd, and compliments the melodic heaviness of Nick Samuels' guitar playing. Earth shattering riffs return to the spotlight in the bands' sound, which is rounded out by the tightest of rhythm sections. The dynamic drumming of Matt Wiles paired with the unique bass technique of Bryan Lindamood join together to form an ultra-tight groove heavy pocket.

You can find out more about Numa on their Facebook page.


artist: Oberlin Consort of Viols
description: renaissance viol music
homepage: oberlin_consort
state: OH
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/oberlin_consort.jpg
bio:
The Oberlin Consort of Viols first formed in 1976 in Oberlin, Ohio with the intent of playing renaissance viol works in an intimate small setting, to recreate the ambience this intimate chamber music was composed for.

The Oberlin consort have performed the works of Orlando Gibbons, Henry Purcell, William Byrd Christopher Tye, John Ward and William Lawes. Since their first encounter with Lawes in 1982, the Oberlin Consort has devoted much of its energy to interpreting and performing Lawes' works, both in concert and on recordings.

The Oberlin Consort have recorded the complete Fantasies of Henry Purcell, as well as a program of fantasias for viols and organ by John Jenkins and William Lawes.


artist: OGMA
description: deliciously melodic and energizing friendly folk rock
homepage: ogma
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/ogma.jpg
bio:
OGMA is the empowered and active vision of Samson.

Samson hails from the wild and enchanted coast of Big Sur, California where he grew up playing music and exploring the magic of nature. After years of co-creating a multitude of diverse musical projects, Samson began literally to dream OGMA into being. The music first came into form as an expression of Samson's dream-time experiences. Music, wisdom, and teachings from dreams were the inspiration and building blocks to the very first OGMA pieces. Over a few years, Samson attentively cultivated a large body of work, however, he kept it to himself as a personal project.

In 2008, after experiencing a series of very powerful dreams and during a period of accelerated personal growth and transformation - Samson realized that it was time to bring OGMA into the world. As soon as he felt this, like a volcano, a burst of new songs came into being and along with them, the concept for OGMA's debut album - "You Are It."

Over a period of several months Samson wrote, performed, and recorded "You Are It" entirely by himself in Big Sur, California. "This album has been written for the entire human family, and for this very moment, right now. It is a call to arms - a musical activation - radiating vibrations of Freedom, Affirmation, Empowerment, Healing, and Love." states Samson.

Since releasing "You Are It," Samson has been traveling and expanding his art through new experiences, challenges, and amazing opportunities. In the Spring of 2010, Samson landed back in beautiful Big Sur where he began working closely with a family network of brother and sister companies of creative, sustainable, and conscious endeavors.

At this time, Samson is writing his second album as well as producing music for an upcoming indie film in a new and exciting musical collaboration.

For updates, upcoming concerts, media, merchandise, and more... enjoy www.OG-MA.com.


artist: Olexa Kabanov
description: strings slowly plucked from the soul
homepage: kabanov
city: Kiev
country: Ukraine
bandphoto: /artists/img/kabanov_1.jpg
bio:
Olexa Kabanov is a gifted composer and multi talentented musician, primarily known as a master performer and music in its authentic form. He is a member of the creative association "kobzar shop" and conducts the performers who play traditional musical folk instruments.

Olexa masterfully performs music on instruments of various cultures. He collects and independently produces the rare and antique musical instruments (dulcimer, wheel lyre, Santoor, tanbur). Another area of creative activity is the development of the Kabanova musical culture of the East.

He has different styles of playing instruments such as sitar, sarod, Santoor, Rubab, and tanbur. Olexa not only reconstructs the original compositions, but also finds new connections between the cultures of East and West, as well as creating new trends in music.


artist: Oliostere
description: Progressive jazz frolicking on melodic polyrhythms
homepage: o_liostere
city: Bagneux
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/o_liostere.jpg
bio:
Formed in France, in 2007, o-liostere has built its musical identity based on a progressive jazz approach, and through the various influences of the different musicians who took part along the years.

In 2008, with a flute-drums-cello section, they reinterpreted some songs from their major influences: Aka Moon, Magic Malik and Steve Coleman. Then, through original metrics and claves, they have developed their own style between jazz, alternative and contemporary music.

The band changed to form a quintet with bass, keyboard, guitar, flute and drums by the end of 2008. In 2012, they were nominated by the French alternative radio FIP for their composition "1 2 3 2". As of 2014, they have performed over 40 times in Paris and its neighborhood including its most famous jazz clubs. After several live appearances as "guest star" and featuring in their first album Circonflexe, a rhythm-noisemaker-vocalist joined the band in 2013. Original composition, polyrhythmic music and improvisation are the features that characterize them best.

You can find out more about o-liostere on their website.
A video of their track "Countdown" can be found here.


artist: One Sock Thief
description: Unique and melodic, piano-based rock
homepage: one_sock_thief
state: MA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/one_sock_thief.jpg
bio:
One Sock Thief is a peculiar rock band. The idea of melding sweeping piano flourishes, which might be considered as easy listening material to some, would not at first glance seem a likely basis for a serious rock band. And yet, this marriage of disparate genres somehow works. In fact, it is precisely what has helped them to sculpt their unique sound.

The band is made up of Michael Anderson's gossamer voice floating between Johan Malherbe's mesmerizing piano flourishes, to create a musical framework for their huge wall-of-sound. It is then completed by Felipe Torres's unrestrained guitar work, which threatens to push the music off the edge, and the carefully considered rhythms of bassist Peter Santana and drummer Carel Wagenaar, which manage to rein it again.

Lyrically, One Sock Thief's music can be described as a push-pull relationship between chaos and order. Other prevalent themes include those of self-realization and acceptance, as is evident in introspective phrases like 'you've got to know yourself' and 'my hands are clean'. These concepts are given added weight when reinforced with the Thieves haunting melodies.

Formed in 2003 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa, the band underwent a number of lineup changes before settling on their latest iteration. Although they currently reside on separate continents, they continue to write together and are working on the follow up to their critically acclaimed debut album Tell Them Now.

Praise for One Sock Thief:

"Most likely to Succeed."
MK's (South Africa's version of M-TV)

"a genuinely moving stage presence make this indie band worth watching."
Levies Magazine

"Listening to tracks from One Sock Thief's debut album: "Tell Them Now" once again convinced us of our artist's passion and ability, a tantalizing, unique listening experience."
More than music

"the kind of good that warms the soul. It is strong, it heaps melody upon melody, it's anthemic."
Mail and Guardian

"One Sock Thief carry a glimmer of hope for the SA music scene."
The Star

"Absolutely brilliant."
SA Tunes Magazine


artist: Opened Paradise
description: intense goth rock from an ancient city
homepage: opened_paradise
city: Athens
country: Greece
bandphoto: /artists/img/openedparadise.jpg
bio:
Opened Paradise was formed in Athens, Greece in the summer of 2003 with a sound and vision dedicated to all that they had held within up until that point. Featuring the incredible,hollowed-out goth vocals of Perilkis, the music is a heady blend of both tempting and aggressive moods, influenced by Fields of Nephilim and Garden Of Delight.

Opened Paradise has played the Gagarin Open Air Festival, Dead Souls Festival, The Beyond the Veil Festival, The Athens Festival, and the Undersworld Club. They've shared the stage with Garden of Delight, Past Perfect, Type O Negative, Rotting Christ, Psyche, Arcturus, Theatre Of Tragedy, and Clan of Xymox.

At the end of March 2006, and after of long period of waiting, Opened Paradise released Occult, the result of much hard work and a realization of the desire to fully represent the internal, emotional lives of the band memebers. The album is mixed by Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ) and mastered by Artaud Seth (Garden Of Delight, Lutherion).


artist: Opera Rock
description: 80's sound, metal Riffs and cinematic interludes to blow your mind
homepage: opera_rock
city: Varese
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/opera_rock.jpg
bio:
Opera Rock mix heavy and power metal sounds with more melodic and rock ones, in order to affect even those people who do not usually listen to these genres. But most importantly, exploiting the power of this new sound making a cinematic concept-album, where each track contributes to weave a wider plot, holding the listener hands from the intro to the final twist thanks to the "pathos" generated by music: this is the ambitious goal of the Opera Rock. Their debut album, Starborn, grants a full immersion in a sci-fi world, eager to tell us the story of Isaac and Reika, two cores of worlds so different and distant but still similar and close to each other.

One of the most thrilling aspects of being a musician is the chance to play and interact every day with a huge number of people in a potentially endless network of knowledge and friendships. Starborn was conceived thanks to the sympathy, passions and mutual respect of the individual components enrolled by Marco "Mr. Faz "Fazzini (founder and bass player of the band) for the realization of his rock opera: Alessandro Formenti, Marco Scorletti, Daniela Laporta and Silvia Ciraudo (vocals), Giorgio Macchi (keyboard), Marco Longhi and Stefano "Leo" Dallosto (guitars) have contributed with their passion and their technical background to the creation of the tracklist of Starborn, unveiling their love for music and their excitement for the project OPERA ROCK.

Their debut album Starborn was co-authored by Leo and Mr. Faz, who also worked on the lyrics and the cinematic arrangements. Although the songs are designed to be accessible by a less attentive public, he who pays attention to the whole narrative and to the roles of the character - each played by a different singer - will fully appreciate the work done in making the concept.

The concept albums are ready to go in style and panache, and OPERA ROCK can not wait to play them for you!

You can find out more about them on their website.


artist: Optimal Tunes
description: energetic and organic clubhouse
homepage: optimal_tunes
city: Bristol
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/optimal_tunes.jpg
bio:
Optimal Tunes take great pleasure in combining traditional musicianship with contemporary technology.

Coming from a classically trained background but with considerable knowledge of audio synthesis and programming, Optimal Tunes know that live playing and sequencing are by no means mutually exclusive pursuits. Both techniques are seamlessly blended to bring you a wide range of interesting and soulful arrangements.

You could describe the Optimal Tunes sound as funky, upbeat and featuring considerable attention to sound texture. Ultimately, however, the sole objective is to communicate a wide range of emotions which we all share and understand.


artist: Orinda
description: French renaissance songs
homepage: orinda
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/jlane.jpg
bio:
Mezzo-soprano Jennifer Lane is recognized internationally for her stunning interpretations of repertoire ranging from the early baroque to that of today's composers. She has appeared at festivals worldwide, with conductors Michael Tilson-Thomas, Mstislav Rostropovich, William Christie, Nicholas McGegan, Andrew Parrott, Marc Minkowski, Helmut Rilling, and Robert Shaw, among others.

Jennifer has performed in opera and concert with the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, Tanglewood Festival, Boston Early Music Festival, the New Getty Center, the Frick Collection in New York, Cite la Musique in Paris, Opernhaus Halle, Opernhaus Dessau, Utah Opera, Opera du Caen, Salzburger Bachgesellschaft, Seattle Baroque Orchestra, Portland Baroque Orchestra, Tafelmusik, Handel & Hayden Society, Les Arts Florissants, Le Parlement de Musique, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Jerusalem Symphony, St. Louis Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Orchestra della Toscana, and the New York City Opera, where she has performed over twenty roles, including the role of Amastre in NYCO's acclaimed production of Handel's Xerxes, directed by Stephen Wadsworth and voted "opera production of the year" by USA Today.

She is a frequent guest of the Groningen Haendel Festival, appearing with conductor Nicholas McGegan in Ariodante, which was recorded on harmonia mundi usa and won a Gramophone Award, Arianna, and Giustino, which was also recorded on harmonia mundi. She created the title role in Augusta Read Thomas's opera Ligeia, based on the life of Edgar Allen Poe. Ligeia was commissioned and conducted by Mstislav Rostropovich at his own festival, in Evian, France. Jennifer has toured the dual roles of Dido and the Sorceress in the Mark Morris Dance Group's production of Dido & Aneas, as well as performing them in the film produced for BRAVO television by Rhombus Media and recorded on CD by CBC Records. The film has won many awards, including the Banff Television Festival and the San Francisco International Film Festival.

1999 was Jennifer Lane's debut season with the Metropolitan Opera, in productions of Schoenberg's Moses und Aron and Janacek's Katya Kabanova. She was recently presented by the Capella Cracoviensis in Cracow, Poland in a recital of American songs and in Bach's Mattheuspassion. She was invited to perform Dido and the Sorceress with Capella Ministrers at the Palau de la Musica in Valencia, Spain, having previously appeared as the Sorceress with Nigel Rogers in the Palau de la Musica in Barcelona. She recently joined the San Francisco Opera Company, covering the role of Anne in Christopher Alden's production of Gertrude Stein and Virgil Thomson's The Mother of US All.

Jennifer Lane has over three dozen recordings on harmonia mundi usa, Naxos, Opus 111, CBC Records, Koch International, Newport Classic, Arabesque, Centaur, and PGM. Her most recent releases include the solo disc The Pleasures & Follies of Love, Schoenberg's Gurrelieder (Waldtaube) and Stravinsky's Oedipus Rex (Jocasta). Jennifer Lane has taught master classes at Old Dominion University, Mannes College, CW Post University, Royal Academy of Music in London, San Francisco Conservatory, and for the San Francisco Opera Young Artists Program. In the summer, Ms. Lane teaches at the Amherst Early Music Festival, the San Francisco Early Music Society (SFEMS) Workshops, the International Baroque Institute at Longy, and the Lake Placid Institute Vocal Seminars.

In September,1996, Jennifer Lane joined the faculty of music at Stanford University, where she has produced and directed several operatic productions, including a period-style production of Dido & Aeneas, mounted as the culminating event in the Music Department's 50th anniversary celebration, an evening of mostly 20th century one act operas, and, most recently, Mozart's The Magic Flute.

David Tayler received his B.A. in music and interdisciplinary studies from Hunter College and his M.A. and Ph.D. in musicology from the University of California at Berkeley, where he studied performance practice with Philip Brett and Alan Curtis and musicology with Joseph Kerman, Richard Crocker and Daniel Heartz.

He is a member of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Director of the Bay Area Collegium Musicum and Ensemble Pandore. David has appeared with American Bach Soloists, Tafelmusik, the San Francisco Opera & Symphony, the Dallas Bach Society, the Oregon Bach Festival and the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra, among others, and has recorded over fifty discs for BIS, harmonia mundi USA, Koch International, ORF, Sony, Reference, Arabesque, BMG, RCA, Musica Omnia and Teldec.

As a specialist in the art song of the early seventeenth century he has performed in lute song recitals throughout Europe and the United States; he is Guest Conductor at the San Francisco Early Music Society Renaissance Workshop.

Hanneke van Proosdij studied harpsichord and organ with Jacques Ogg at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, the Netherlands, where she also studied recorder and composition. She received her DM (teaching diploma) in 1992 and UM (solo diploma) in 1995. She performs with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, the American Bach Soloists, Magnificat, Parnassus Ave, Chanticleer, Orinda and Farallon Recorder Quartet. Festival appearances include the Berkeley Early Music Festival, Internationale Handel Festpiele Gronigen, Amherst Early Music Festival, Festival d'Ambronnay, Wratislavia Cantans, Contemporary Improvised Music Festival and the American Bach Soloists SummerFest. Hanneke is the Director of the San Francisco Early Music Society Medieval Renaissance Summer Festival.

Proosdij also performs with the Farallon Recorder Quartet as well as having her own solo recording.


artist: Osamu Kitajima and Chris Mancinelli
description: pan pacific ambient dance masters
homepage: kitajima_mancinelli
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/kitajima_mancinelli_1.jpg
bio:
Universally hailed as "masterful mixers of the modern and the ancient," Osamu Kitajima and Chris Mancinelli began as a duo in the early 1990s, and first gained widespread attention with their 1995 debut album "Beyond the Circle".

Hailed for combining the latest electronic sounds with ancient Japanese music, the recording synthesized East and West in their own inimitable style. Kitajima, and Mancinelli continue to present us with a truly fresh, unique sound that remains wildly popular today. Both halves of the duo loved music from their early years.

Chris Mancinelli born in Illinois was the son of two classically trained musicians. Though he was a child star in opera and studied classical piano and cello, Mancinelli was enchanted by the sounds of rock and roll. By the time Mancinelli was in junior high, he was jamming with every band he could find in the city's vibrant music scene. He decided to relocate to Boston, Massachusetts and was accepted at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Following four years of intense musical studies Mancinelli moved to Los Angeles in the early 1980s.

In LA, Mancinelli worked steadily in the vital local club scene and toured with Blues Goddess Bonnie Bramlett (of Delaney and Bonnie) and Cajun legend Jo-El Sonnier and Garth Hudson of The Band. He formed the highly lauded band BLOC with Nels Cline (of WILCO) and was soon signed to A and M Records. Mancinelli was also recruited to score the music for many visual artist documentaries in collaboration with the Long Beach Museum of Art Video Annex.

Osamu Kitajima was born in Chigasaki Japan. His first musical love was American pop and rock from Elvis to "The Ventures". His college band "The Launchers" became one of the most successful bands in Japanese music history. In the 1970's Kitajima produced and wrote hundreds of jingles for TV commercials, receiving a Hollywood Radio and TV Award, ACC and a CLIO Award. He then moved moved to London, England and worked with British bands.

Kitajima then returned to Japan, and established his original sound through 3 years study of Japanese traditional music. Kitajima relocated to California and was quickly signed to Chris Blackwell's Island Records as a solo artist. He then captured the imagination of Clive Davis and was signed to Arista Records. In the 1980's he moved to CBS/Sony Records and also worked on many TV and film projects as well as working as an independent producer in the US and Japan.

The duo initiated a partnership in the 1990s producing and arranging the albums of many artists in the Asian markets for Warner Bros, Sony Music, Toshiba-EMI, and Pony Canyon Records. These collaborations lead to signing with the Virgin/CyberOctave label and the ground breaking release of "Beyond the Circle." The guys also found time to create the underground smash Fabulous Breaker Boys techno/surf release which was a #1 seller on the infamous Napster and mp3.com websites. Following this was a project recorded for Miles Copeland's Ark21/mondorhythmica label entitled "Two Bridges Crossing." This music was also featured on the label's acclaimed compilation series "Zen and the Art of Chilling Vol.2".

"Beyond the Circle" has been lauded for it's combination of the latest electronic sounds with ancient music. Kitajima and Mancinelli fuse the Far East and the Western world in their own inimitable way. They have gifted us with a truly fresh and unique sound that stands the test of time.

"Christmas through the Gateway" is an effort to combine the timeless classics of the holiday season with the ancient magic of Asian instrumental and vocal history. The result is a unique connection between the West and the East spanning the primordial to the modern.


artist: Ostracon
description: Generative electronic landscapes and dynamic live percussion
homepage: ostracon
state: MN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/ostracon.jpg
bio:
Ostracon is John Keston on electronics and Graham O'Brien on drums. The duo performs generative, improvisational compositions using John Keston's custom software, the GMS (Gestural Music Sequencer), that converts video input into musical phrases.

Keston captures, layers, loops and processes melodic segments in real-time out of the stream of notes created by his gestural input, tailored with probability distribution algorithms. O'Brien accompanies these angular, electronic structures, with dynamic playing that, at times, verges on the chaotic.

John Keston is a musician, composer, and sound artist exploring the synesthetic relationships between auditory and optical landscapes. He is also interested in evoking stochastic behaviors in compositional structures by translating visual or gestural input into sound. One example of how John is doing this is with the Gestural Music Sequencer (GMS). The GMS is an application that John developed in Processing.org that analyzes video input and converts it into a sequence of musical information in real-time.

Originally from the United Kingdom, John is currently based in Minneapolis, Minnesota where he is an instructor in interactive media at the Art Institutes Minnesota. His work involves composition, experimental software development, music and sound art. He founded the sound design resource, AudioCookbook.org, where you will find more documentation for his projects and research.

On AudioCookbook John selects a few examples of work that he has produced recently. This will include audio works found under sound, custom built applications and digital art under images, and music releases under discography.

Graham O'Brien is a drummer, producer and composer. He has produced and recorded music for artists and groups around the Twin Cities and nationally, including Eyedea, Sadistik, Kristoff Krane, No Bird Sing, Moon & Pollution, Carnage, Kill the Vultures, and officially released remixes with Halloween, Alaska, Sadistik, Guante and Sole. In 2011 Graham released his solo debut as a producer & composer entitled "Live Drums". It was warmly received and released on NoEcho Records out of the UK.

You can find out more about Ostracon on their website.


artist: OTiS
description: drenched in soul, nestled deep in a groove
homepage: otis
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/otis_2.jpg
bio:
Drenched in soul, nestled deep in a groove, OTiS is the product of time and experience. The band strings together sounds that have deeply influenced their lives to create music inspired by everything from soul to funk and back again. Singer Craig Alan had a dream to unite like-minded, passionate musicians, and his dreams are most certainly coming true.

Since 2009, the Brooklyn band's presence has been on the map, but in the last year they've solidified a reputation as a show stopping live act, with powerful musicianship and song writing chops to boot.

OTiS has recently made appearances at the cult-favorite Montauk Music Festival and the highly anticipated Escape2NY Music Festival. They remain in the rotation of NYC's hottest venues including Southpaw, Sullivan Hall, and their new favorite, Rockwood Music Hall, on Manhattan's Lower East Side.

Be sure to catch their debut music video "Automatic People" this fall, filmed entirely on the streets of Brooklyn. Directly following the video's release, OTiS is very excited for the launch of their second album, "Music Elevator" later this year. This exceptional follow up to their debut, self-titled album, "OTiS" (2009), promises to get bodies and minds moving in the right direction.

OTiS is:
Craig Alan: vocals, guitar
Justin Etheredge; piano, keyboards
Dave Lowenthal: bass
Theo Moore: congas, percussion
Dominick Magnotta: drums


artist: Ou
description: lively Sardinian/italian World music sextet from Rome
homepage: ou
state: WA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/ou_low.jpg
bio:
Recently inducted into the Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame, internationally recognized producer and multi-instrumentalist Amy Denio has laid a new egg in the next of her label Spoot Music!

'SCRAMBLED!' is the second recording by OU ('egg' in Sardinian dialect), a lively Sardinian/Italian world music sextet based in Rome. This is an absolutely beautiful collection of new compositions by trumpetist/ukeleleist Ersilia Prosperi.

Sung in Italian, Sardinian, Spanish, Portuguese, French, English and Pygmy, with a guest brass band and guest chorus, 'SCRAMBLED' blurs the boundaries between jazz, world music, irony, ferocity and tenderness.

Personnel:
Ersilia Prosperi: Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Ukulele, Background Vocals
Martina Fadda: Lead Vocal, Whistle, Shaker
Claudio Mosconi: Bass, Background Vocals
Cristiano De Fabritiis: Drums, Shaker, Background Vocals
Cristina Pecorario: Alto Sax, Background Vocals
Andrea Pesce: Piano, Wurlitzer, Hammond B-3 organ, Drum Programming, Glockenspiel, Toy Rat, Vocals
Amy Denio: Alto Sax, Clarinet, Bombo Leguero, Jew's Harp, Background Vocals

You can find out more about Ou on their bandcamp page.


artist: Ozzie Cruse
description: Organic, electric sounds for your synaptic pleasure
homepage: ozzie_cruse
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/ozzie_cruse_low.jpg
bio:
Originally hailing from Saint Louis, MO, Ozzie Cruse dabbled with various instruments during his youth without finding his musical voice. Picking up playing bass at age 20 like a true late bloomer, Ozzie realized the instrument clicked with his sensibilities as he quickly displayed abilities of a natural bass player. Ozzie has always been a student of all types of music but this was accelerated by his voracious appetite for learning to play songs, new styles and fresh techniques.

After rounding out rhythm sections for many bands in the St. Louis area, Ozzie began to experiment with original electronic songs, sample based creations and remixing his own band's songs. This change in creative approach gave him dynamic freedoms and allowed Ozzie to explore and create outside of the limits of the standard band environment of bass, guitar, keys and drums. Since relocating to Southern California, Ozzie has reached a creative stride while honing his tendencies of crossing into and mixing multiple genres naturally.

Ozzie strives to create a new and fresh 'dish' with each unique composition regardless of the ingredients used so grab a taste and enjoy the flavors.

You can check out more of Ozzie's tracks on Soundcloud.


artist: Pain Factor
description: heavy metal with strong melodies and big riffs
homepage: pain_factor
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/pain_factor_2.jpg
bio:
Devin and Randy started Pain Factor as a side project mainly just recording back in 1998-99. Soon after, in 2000, they brought in an old friend by the name of Rocky to lay down the drums. Each of them had other bands and projects going on, so for some time they only worked on the Pain Factor recordings whenever time would permit, but eventually they realized that they had something that was worth a lot more than just a side project.

Pain Factor has quickly established themselves as one of the S.F. Bay Area's heaviest new hard rock bands with their self-titled full-length release and live performances all over the Bay Area in 2004. Songs like Pull and Lunatic Lover deliver a sexy feel from the vocals with heavy sounds from Black Sabbath to White Zombie with a little bit of Nine Inch Nails influence. On the other hand, 8 Seconds, Hands of God and Devil's Blood are dark and heavy with a very serious and deliberate lyrical content that gives listeners a glimpse into some of Pain Factor's own personal experiences and demons. With heavy driven guitars, melodic yet aggressive vocals that are full of constant energy, and an extremely solid groove set forth by the bass and drums. Pain Factor is a S.F. Bay Area group of four musicians who have all been friends in different circles for many years that are sure to leave an impression on every one who sees and hears them.


artist: Panacea
description: Eastern and Western European folk music.
homepage: panacea
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/panacea1.jpg
bio:
Panacea is an eclectic blend of five of the San Francisco Bay area's most individual and sought after musicians. With a myriad of successful music careers between them, these five dynamic performers have joined their unique and diverse talents to form what is being called a wildly playful ensemble.

Clockwise from the lower left: Santuri player Robin Petrie has recorded and toured extensively, playing and singing Celtic and European folk music. Nicole LeCorgne specializes in Middle Eastern and Balkan percussion. Bon Brown Singer is well known as a vocalist and the original artistic director of the Kitka women's chorus. Shira Kammen tours here and abroad as a medieval and early music vocalist and instrumentalist. Accordionist Nada Lewis has led several renowned Balkan and klezmer ensembles in the Bay area.

Together their repertoire is as diverse as their experience, with music that travels from Finland to Israel and spends quite a bit of time in the Balkans along the way.


artist: Panic Ensemble
description: cabaret infused rock band mixing folk and world
homepage: panic_ensemble
city: Ramat Gan
country: Israel
bandphoto: /artists/img/panic_ensemble.jpg
bio:
Fusing the strains of the centuries-old traditions, modern and the experimental, the Israeli collective Panic Ensemble creates an intensely dramatic, cabaret-infused sound and an appealing theatrical atmosphere.

Playing a wide range of instruments, such as viola, accordion, contrabass, keyboards and percussion, the eight musicians of Panic Ensemble mingle expressive Klezmer melodies with massive rock energy and jazz influences. For the past years Panic Ensemble has been drawing great attention in Israel. Blending rock with Jewish, classical and folk elements, Panic invites its audience into a novel and wondrous world of magic and excitement, for numerous fans who are enchanted and moved by the dazzling and moving songs. Performing in numerous and varied venues, Panic Ensemble appeals to many and various audiences. They have appeared in key rock clubs, dance concerts, as well as numerous festivals.

The releases of their two albums have been met with extremely positive responses in Israel from critics, with much radio airplay nationwide. Panic's texts talk about relationships, fears, alienation and more.

The major part of the poetry is written by the internationally acclaimed poet Karen Alkalay Gut, born in London, raised in New York and now residing in Israel teaching poetry at the Tel Aviv University.

Yael Kraus, the lead singer, contributes her warm, soft, angelic voice, both vulnerable and powerful. Many songs are also accompanied by voices from the other members of the group.

Roy Yarkoni, the composer, arranger and pianist of the ensemble has extensive experience composing for theatre, dance and film, all of which is recognizable in the dramatic, rhythmic and visual music.

Panic Ensemble consists of:

Roy Yarkoni - Piano, Laptop
Yael Kraus - Vocals
Galia Hai- Viola, voices
Yonatan Levital - Bass
Omer Hershman - Guitar and Vocals
Boris Marzinovski- Accordion
Dirk Kunesch - Trumpet, Vocals
Giori Politi- Drums, percussion

You can find out more about Panic Ensemble on their website.

What the Press are saying:

"Emotion is given as much, if not more weight than precise musicianship. And in doing so, they've made one of the best art-rock-cabaret records you haven't heard this year."
www.popmatters.com

"The main asset of Panic is the wonderful Yael Kraus...She has a strong, sexy and romantic voice, but what dominates in her voice is her ability to sing with a musical and textual intelligence and offer the listener the possibility to truly believe in every bar and every note, every words and every emotion."
www.raashlavan.wordpress.com

"In a perfect world Panic Ensemble will be the most successful band in the world. Meanwhile they settle in a place of honor in the local Israeli Indie scene, and boast a halo of rare quality and originality"
www.afarkeseth.com


artist: Paolo Pavan
description: Urban funky jazz piano, in a sober and straightforward style
homepage: paolo_pavan
city: Rome
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/paolo_pavan.jpg
bio:
Paolo Pavan was born in Rome in 1970. He has been studying music since he was a child and was soon dazzled by jazz music, having as teachers musicians like Stefano Sabatini and Riccardo Biseo. He attended training in composition and electronic music with Michelangelo Lupone and achieved a degree in piano whilst pursuing his classical studies with Kostantin Bogino.

Since the late 80s Paolo has been playing with several folk, rock, pop and jazz bands in Rome and collaborated in studio recordings projects. He has played in numerous musical festivals like The Eddie Lang Jazz festival, Fabbricando festival, and the Se telefonando festival.

In 2000 he was finalist for the TIM international music festival. Two years later he performed the concert for piano, "Jazz improvisation on classical theme" at Accademia Angelica Costantiniana for the IV Festival Internazionale di Pianoforte e Musica da Camera.

Paolo achieved a second degree in ethnomusicology at Sapienza University and later on participated in the workshop of the pianist Kenny Barron at the Tuscia Jazz festival.

It was after meeting the tenor saxophonist Davide Marinacci that they started playing and re-working classics from T Monk and J Coltrane in jazz clubs around the capital. The feeling between the two artists was so strong that they have, and continue to influence each other for a number of years.

Paolo also regularly consults for RAI television programs.


artist: Park St Trio
description: Catchy, melodic jazz for all occasions
homepage: park_st_trio
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/park_st_trio.jpg
bio:
A few years ago, good friends Jason Countryman and Steve Slater sat down for a cup of coffee. Conversation turned to music, as it usually did for these professional musicians, but more specifically the conversation was about jazz and writing original jazz tunes. Steve and Jason had had many conversations about music, but this one had a direction, purpose and an outcome. This conversation was going to result in something. Something neither of them had ever done before. After the coffee was gone and the words had been exchanged, they had a band name, Park St. Trio, and they had a plan... Write original jazz music for people who like good melodies and songs, make an album.

Next step, finding other players. Jason had gone to school with Nick Underwood, so it wasn't too hard to reach out to him, discuss the plan and sign him up. The vibraphone player, Stan Muncy, also went to school at Cal State Hayward, with Nick and Jason. Stan had graduated and spent his time auditioning for symphonies as a classical percussionist. There was a question about whether or not Stan would have the time to play in an original jazz group. But one phone call was all it took. Turns out Stan was looking for something else to occupy his mind and help his music skills along. So the band was formed, Steve Slater, Jason Countryman, Stan Muncy and Nick Underwood. Sure it's 4 people, not 3. I guess that's just jazz for you.

The songs came together super quick. Steve had written about 10 songs and Jason nearly matched that. The rehearsals began with playing through each tune, then asking which ones were the best for their first album. The title track, "Goodnight, Daylight", is a lullaby written for Steve's son. He felt very strongly that this should be the title of the album and everyone agreed. The art work design was done by Steve as well. The picture is of Park St. in Alameda, in 1910. He felt that the music had a classic, old time feel to it. The black and white picture of classic Park St. was a perfect match for the tunes.

They recorded the album in Fremont CA, at Little Red Wagon Studio's. The actual recording was interesting as well. Most albums these days are recorded digitally into a computer, but the guys in Park St. Trio wanted a more traditional sound, so they recorded to 2" tape. This meant, no over dubs, no "fixing" notes, no redo's. The plan was, 3 takes per song, pick the best one. So that's exactly what they did. 11 songs recorded 3 times each, all in one day. The mastering was then done at Headless Buddha Studio's in Oakland, CA.

I think the outcome speaks for itself. Classic tunes, recorded using a classic method, giving this album the classic feel that defines Park St. Trio.


artist: Paul Avgerinos
description: beautiful ambient space music
homepage: avgerinos
state: CT
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/avgerinos6.jpg
bio:
Paul Avgerinos is a GRAMMY(r) nominated and award winning composer and producer whose music is broadcast all over the world.

When Paul Avgerinos graduated from the Peabody Conservatory of Music in 1980, as a full scholarship honors student, he had already performed as a bassist with Isaac Stern, Jean Pierre Rampal, The Beaux Arts Trio, Baryshnikov and many other great classical artists. He also has won scholarships to play and study at music festivals in Tanglewood, Aspen, Grand Teton, Taos, and Spoleto (Italy). After graduation, Paul served as principal bass of several major symphony orchestras around the world, and gave solo recitals as well.

Expanding into more popular genres, Avgerinos toured as a bassist with Charles Aznavour, Liza Minelli, and the jazz legend Buddy Rich. Seeking to further his original composition and develop his childhood passion for electronic music, Paul built Studio Unicorn, a comprehensive digital/analog recording studio, in 1986. Ten solo CDs in the New Age genre followed, including Muse of the Round Sky on the Hearts of Space label. Muse won several awards and is played on more than 2,000 radio stations around the world in addition to syndicated shows such as Music from the Hearts of Space and John Diliberto's Echoes. Three thirty minute features with the latter are added to his credits along with his many other radio interviews. Paul's music is currently being played on Sirius XM Satellite radio & DMX as well as Music Choice SoundScapes. He has appeared on fourteen sampler CDs and as a guest artist on albums by Joanie Madden, Faruk Tekbilek, Joaquin Lievano, Brian Keane and others.

Paul records and produces many popular albums as well and has worked with artists as diverse as Jewel, Willie Nelson, Deana Carter, Richie Havens, Run DMC, and the Celtic Tenors. Avgerinos always makes time for scoring and has worked on over 100 Film, Commercial, TV, and Cable projects for all of the major and minor networks with over 3,000 licenses in the last year alone. Paul's work on Peter Kater's Red Moon earned A 2004 Grammy Nomination. Paul's album GNOSIS placed #1 on the New Age & World Radio Chart and his latest, Garden of Delight, won an award for the Best World Album of 2007, was CD of the Month on Echoes & Top Ten on New Age Radio for Three Months. Keeping busy creating original music for a variety of interesting and rewarding projects is a way of life.

Currently, Paul lives and works in his Studio Unicorn, Redding, Connecticut, where the deer pass by his studio windows and the hawks and eagles give inspiration from above.


artist: Paul Beier
description: solo lute of the Italian renaissance.
homepage: beier
city: Milan
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/beier2.jpg
bio:
Paul Beier graduated from the Royal College of Music, London, under Diana Poulton.

He has performed throughout Europe, Australia, North and South America with a solo repertoire extending from the early Sixteenth Century to the music of Bach and Weiss.

Founder and director of Ensemble Galilei, now renamed Galatea, he also collaborates with many baroque music groups.

His CDs (9 solo lute recordings and 4 as director of Galatea) have been received very well; some of them earned important recognition such as Disque du Mois of Rortoire, 5 Diapason, 5 stars of Goldberg, etc. Since 1981 he teaches Lute, Basso Continuo and Renaissance Ensemble at the Civica Scuola di Musica (Accademia Internazionale della Musica) in Milan.


artist: Paul Berget
description: renaissance lute, modernized.
homepage: paul_berget
state: MN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/paul_berget.jpg
bio:
Paul Berget received his B.F.A. degree from the University of Minnesota in 1972. After graduation, he continued his studies with the legendary Diana Poulton at the Royal College of Music in London, where he also studied with acclaimed lutenist Nigel North.

In 1973, he appeared on Broadway in a musical production of Cyrano starring Christopher Plummer.

In addition to playing early music, he has also performed in a variety of other musical styles: modern classical and steel string guitar, and world music.

Recently he has been performing as the lutenist in the internationally acclaimed ensemble Minstrelsy!, a group that records on the Lyra Chord label.

Other early music collaborations include the Rose Ensemble, Ensemble Polaris, the Minnesota Lute Quartet (MiLQ), and performances with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra.


artist: Paul Boehnke
description: Heartfelt music for harpsichord
homepage: paul_boehnke
state: MN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/paul_boehnke_low.jpg
bio:
"Paul Boehnke's playing is exciting in the fast movements and indescribably lovely in the slow ones....as sensuously beautiful as it is illuminating."
Audio Video Club of Atlanta

Paul Boehnke fell in love with recordings of the fugues of JS Bach when he was 14. The next year he began study in organ and was introduced to the music of Louis and Francois Couperin, Buxtehude, Byrd and the ideas of early fingering and notes inegales.

After studying in Amsterdam, Paul returned to the States and has been heard in ever more varied contexts. He has been a guest artist with the Newberry Consort and Second City Music, both of Chicago. He has performed solo recitals in San Francisco and at the National Music Museum in Vermillion, SD.

Paul has appeared at the Madison Early Music Festival and the national conclaves of the Viola da Gamba Society of America as well as being a frequent guest artist at the University of Minnesota's annual Bach Festival and with Lyra Baroque Orchestra. He has coached ensembles and taught masterclasses locally and as far away as Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea.

In August of 2007 Paul became the Artistic Director for the Bach Society of Minnesota. His seasons at the helm have produced varied programs of concerts which included sacred cantatas, orchestral works, and small chamber works.

You can find out more about Paul on his website.


artist: Pavlova Wind Quintet
description: exploring unusual, exciting areas of the classical and non-classical wind quintet repertoire
homepage: pavlova_wind_quintet
city: Oxford
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/pavlova_wind_quintet.jpg
bio:
The Pavlova Wind Quintet was formed in 1999 by Simon Payne along with fellow-founder members Carolyn King and Chris Britton. The aim of the group, based in Oxford and Abingdon, England, has been from the outset to explore the more unusual and exciting areas of the wind quintet repertoire, and over the years it has become one of the most enterprising and high-profile ensembles in Oxfordshire. Its name was taken from the road where Simon lives in Abingdon (Anna Pavlova Close), the initial main venue for our rehearsals. It was the former site of the Pavlova Leather Works, whose owner was a big fan of the famous early 20th century ballet dancer. The group's impressively broad repertoire includes music in a huge variety of styles, from arrangements of light-hearted favourite tunes to the more substantial and demanding classics for wind quintet. We take a delight in mixing the familiar and unfamiliar, classical and ethnic, serene and virtuosic. Our concert tours have taken us to France and Germany on twin-town visits (Grenoble, Bonn, Argentan and Colmar) and have resulted in concerts in unusual venues, for example an immigration detention centre near Oxford, a castle in Devon, and a German department store! Many of our concerts are built around themes, with a South American one including first UK performances of dance suites by the Brazilian composer and conductor Julio Medaglia. Typically unusual, this, our first CD, is based entirely on arrangements of piano and orchestral pieces, here recorded for the first time.

Christopher Britton was born in London, but has lived in Oxford since 1983, where he is well-known as a professional flute and recorder player with a busy teaching practice on both instruments. He received his earliest intensive musical training as a Junior Exhibitioner at the Royal College of Music, going on to study music and German at Birmingham University. He has been a student in private lessons and masterclasses of such distinguished flautists as James Galway, Susan Milan, Peter-Lukas Graf, Atarah Ben-Tovim, Graham Mayger, Delia Ruhm and Peter Lloyd. He has freelanced with BBC orchestras, occasionally appearing as a concerto soloist and broadcasting frequently on BBC Radio 3, playing under such eminent conductors as Norman Del Mar, Richard Hickox, Rudolf Schwarz and George Hurst. More recently he has been playing with local professional orchestras, occasionally as a soloist, as well as in diverse forms of chamber music: with the Pavlova Wind Quintet (since its founding in 1999), and in a duo with the guitarist Raymond Burley. Recent concerts have featured him in events as extraordinary as appearing with the Oxford Trobadors in performances of Occitan songs and improvising with ex-Swingles Singer Wendy Nieper! He also enjoys playing Latin-American songs and other folk music with his trio Serendipity (flute, guitar and percussion - www.serendipity-music.co.uk). In 2006 he recorded a CD of music by J.S. Bach for solo flute for Magnatune (Counterpoint for One). He is a keen pianist, and this has inspired him to arrange piano music, mainly for the Pavlova Quintet, with much of his work in evidence on this album (Pavlova Presents....). He is also interested in ethnic flute-playing styles and has performed on the Irish flute and the Peruvian quena.

Carolyn King studied the oboe with Natalie James and Anthony Camden. She read biochemistry at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, and at University College, London. She completed several years of post-doctoral research in Oxford before relinquishing her scientific career to concentrate on music. She has subsequently built up a busy free-lance career both as an orchestral and solo player, and has toured extensively in Europe with the City of Oxford Orchestra where she was the principal oboe for many years. She has long been in great demand as a teacher in the region, but has now given up her teaching practice to focus on playing. She is the founder of the New Oxford Ensemble and a founder-member of the Pavlova Wind Quintet. She is very interested in how dyslexia affects music sight-reading and has recently completed an MA at Reading University on this subject.

Barbara Stuart studied the clarinet at the Royal Academy of Music with John Davies and Georgina Dobrée where she specialized in the E flat clarinet, studying with Richard Addison (Principal, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra). In her final year at the RAM (and on her twenty-second birthday) she won the Mid-Northumbrian Arts Group National Clarinet competition with the amazing prize of any clarinet she chose, and the opportunity to perform a concerto with the Northern Sinfonia at Alnwick Castle. Barbara's day job is working for Oxford University Press marketing printed music. Barbara plays clarinet regularly with local orchestras including the Oxford Sinfonia, the Oxford Chamber Orchestra and Woodstock Choral Society, and plays the E flat clarinet and bass clarinet in several others. She was first invited to join the Pavlova Wind Quintet for their Christmas concert in 2001.

Jenny Morgan studied the horn under the tuition of Alfred Dowling in Liverpool and Anthony Halstead in London. She was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain from 1989 - 1993, and has regularly played with numerous orchestras in the North West, including the Liverpool Mozart Orchestra. Jenny read Music at Jesus College, Oxford, where she undertook a wealth of orchestral and chamber playing, notably performing the Britten Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings and the Schubert Octet with the Allegri Quartet. She was also Musical Director of OUDS where she wrote the scores for over a dozen university productions. On graduating, Jenny pursued a career in financial services in London. She became a member of the Pavlova Quintet in 2005, and now combines playing and teaching with looking after her two young children.

Simon Payne was brought up in Colchester and started playing clarinet, changing to bassoon at 14. He played in many local orchestras, in the Essex Youth Orchestra for six years, and the British Youth Symphony Orchestra for two years. While reading Classics at New College, Oxford he played the bassoon in the University and Oxford Symphony Orchestras, and in two wind quintets, and began teaching bassoon in Oxford schools. After working for some time in London as a publisher and playing bassoon for Morley College wind group and for Abbey Opera he returned to Oxford and played regularly in a wind sextet performing 18th century wind music in costume in country houses. He plays with the Oxford Symphony Orchestra, Oxford Sinfonia, Cotswold Chamber Orchestra, Kidlington and Woodstock Operatic Societies, Bampton Opera, Henley Symphony Orchestra and various wind ensembles. He founded the Pavlova Wind Quintet in 1999. As chairman of The Oxford Sinfonia he helped to increase its profile and attract top-quality conductors and soloists. He was Development Manager for the  Oxford Philomusica from 2009 to 2013, and is currently General Administrator of the Orchestra of St John's, director John Lubbock http://www.osj.org.uk.


artist: Peggy Duquesnel
description: Creative and Captivating Jazz / Pop Piano
homepage: peggy_duquesnel
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/peggy_duquesnel.jpg
bio:
A musician of stunning range and complexity, Peggy Duquesnel's achievements in music are a testament to her incredible devotion to the art of music.

Peggy Duquesnel is an accomplished pianist, vocalist and composer with over 25 years of professional experience. She has performed and recorded with such notables as Alan Broadbent, Henry Mancini, Dionne Warwick, Jeff Lorber, Jimmy Haslip, Al Schmitt, Jeff Hamilton and John Patitucci.

She has released eight jazz, pop and inspirational CDs as a featured artist, which have received critical acclaim, and has composed and published more than fifty instrumental and vocal original songs. She served as stadium keyboardist for the Anaheim Angels and the Mighty Ducks and has been a featured performer for the Auckland Philharmonic, Disney, Roland, Kawai and at many concert venues, corporate events, churches and clubs.

Duquesnel serves as Director of Jazz Studies at Concordia University. She studied music at Fullerton College and received a B.A. in Music from CSU Northridge.

Here is what the press is saying about Peggy Duquesnel:

"Peggy's vocals are polished and smooth, her voice as much an instrument as any in the orchestra."
Robert A. Lindquist, Singer Magazine

"She plays piano and sings equally well, and is as easy on the eye as on the ear. She has great range, and her Stardust was wonderful, as was her piano rendition of It Might As Well Be Spring."
Graeme Barrow, New Zealand News

"Peggy is not only a captivating songwriter but she's a fine pianist too. There is a Bill Evans quality to her playing and her harmonies."
Bob Snyder, Jazz Programmer WRST-FM

"LA based Peggy Duquesnel sings, plays piano and writes in the jazz tradition of guys like Dick Hyman and Ralph Sutton. She brings her clear yet unassuming voice to mature originals. She growls through the "Drivin' Blues" with confidence."
George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly


artist: Pellingmans' Saraband
description: viol and lute duo
homepage: pellingmans_saraband
city: Richmond
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/pellingmans_saraband.jpg
bio:
Jacob Heringman and Susanna Pell have been musical colleagues for almost 25 years and have both enjoyed distinguished careers at the forefront of the early music movement; Jacob as a soloist and with many prominent period ensembles; Susanna as a freelance performer and member of the pioneering groups, Fretwork and The Dufay Collective.

Between them they've made around 150 recordings for major record labels (they've lost track of the exact number!) and played in many prestigious concert series and music festivals throughout the world. They can be heard on film soundtracks such as Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Kingdom of Heaven, The Da Vinci Code, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and Ridley Scott's Robin Hood. Jacob appears on Joni Mitchell's 2002 release Travelogue and Susanna on Kate Bush's 2005 album Aerial.

In 1999 they celebrated their marriage. Composer, Andrew Keeling, wrote a piece, Pellingmans' Saraband, to mark that occasion. Now they take that title for their new duo when, for the first time in those many years of performing separately and together, they focus on combining the unique sonorities of their two instruments in an exploration of music from the late medieval period through to the early baroque.

Division-Musick is Pellingmans' Saraband's first recording and signifies the launch of a new phase in their performing careers.


artist: Petar Alargic
description: a vision inspiring voyage across the diameters of your imagination
homepage: petar_alargic
city: Sremska Mitrovica
country: Serbia
bandphoto: /artists/img/petar_alargic_new.jpg
bio:
Petar Alargic has been active in the realm of the sound and music creation for almost a decade; writing, recording, as much as performing live; experimenting, exploring and searching through it exhaustively, striving to establish the surroundings which are able to breath life into his own ideas.

Embracing the technology, while yet relying on his electric guitar executive power, takes the diverting fractions of the sonic spectrum into control, and reaches the so long sought after grounds of aural exaltation.

Constant motion of explorement, inevitably widening its own perspectives, reaches the new horizons. Implement of the new discovered altitudes procreates the full-scale deployment, introducing self to the expression's outer limits.

Invoking.. Textural.. Transcendent..

Intact, meaning-free creations, widespread projectionary planes, transporting structures that lead to the undefined..

Huge AMBIENT of distantia..

Vibrant pulsating ELECTRONICA...

Monumental modern METAL..

Sustaining, yet balancing, dialogue, of the contrasting propulsions..

You can find out more about Petar on his own website, Facebook page or MySpace page.


artist: Petr Venkrbec
description: electro jazz full of nice surprises
homepage: petr_venkrbec
city: Kutna Mora
country: Czech Republic
bandphoto: /artists/img/petr_venkrbec2.jpg
bio:
Born in 1964 in Czechoslovakia, now the Czech Republic, where he still lives. He has been a live and session musician (saxophone and clarinet) for most of his life with jazz, rock and blues bands, e.g. Psi Vojaci, Vltava, Milan Svoboda Big Band, Mind the Step, Moimir Papalescu and the Nihilists, Magnetik.

While supplying horn lines, solo parts, arrangements and arrangement hints to many bands and projects, the live playing and recording brought him into the studio or onto the stage with a rather incoherent collection of greats like Mike Stern, Alexander Hacke and Bryan Corbett. He is familiar with the underground venues of the communist era, as well as with the big jazz stages like Jazz in Duketown in 's-Hertogenbosch, Prague, Odessa, Sibiu international jazz festivals, and Jazz at the Birmingham Symphony Hall, likewise with the major dance and electronica festivals in his area.

However, now he prefers to be more occupied with music teaching and to be home with his family and his modest collection of synthesizers and woodwind instruments to enjoy the possibility of a free choice of forms and sounds when composing his own music from scratch. His compositions and improvisations may sometimes sound quite rough but they can always be taken as soothing musical potions for a human soul irritated by modern life's dilemmas.

Another dimension is added by Petr's exploration of the capability of music to express abstract views on questions of modern science. His friends once described his music as not exactly the simplest but a quite comprehensive survival guide in modern times.


artist: Phantom Pop
description: Definitely not poppy from Brooklyn
homepage: phantom_pop
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/phantom_pop.jpg
bio:
Phantom Pop is a 5 piece instrumental band from Brooklyn, NY. The group combines elements of funk, soul, and RnB with the improvisation of jazz to create their own sound.

Originally formed by Dave Lowenthal to create an album, it was quickly realized that there was something special going on.


artist: Phebe Craig and Katherine Westine
description: harpsichord duets
homepage: craig_westine
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/craig_westine_1.jpg
bio:
Originally from Colorado, Phebe Craig spent her student years in Berlin, Brussels and San Francisco. She has earned a reputation as a versatile chamber musician and recitalist and has performed and recorded with many early music ensembles. As a specialist in basso continuo realization she has accompanied many prominent early music soloists. She has appeared at the Carmel Bach Festival, the Regensburg Tage Alter Music, and the Berkeley Early Music Festival. In addition to performing with many local ensembles, Craig also belongs to New York State Baroque. She teaches at the University of California at Davis and is the Director of the San Francisco Early Music Society's Baroque Music and Dance Workshop.

Katherine Westine holds a B.A. degree in Music History from the University of Washington and a Master's Degree in organ performance from Lone Mountain College in San Francisco. She has done post-graduate study in early music for harpsichord, clavichord and organ with Harald Vogel at the Norddeutsche Orgelakademie in Germany. Former teachers include Silvia Kind, harpsichord, and Wyatt Insko, organ. Ms. Westine teaches and performs in the San Francisco Bay Area, is a past president of the Alameda Branch of MTAC and is founder of the Florio Street Concerts. She is a member of the ensembles Nota Bene and La Foolia.

In addition to original Baroque literature written for two harpsichords, Craig and Westine have transcribed, composed, and corrupted (generally to the enthusiasm of their audiences) works from all eras and genres, some of which can be heard on their CD, Beside Themselves. In 1994 they founded KATastroPHE Records, a small recording label featuring an eclectic line of serious recording and educational materials (The DiscContinuo Series: a play-along CD, with book and performance guide and The Duet Yourself: a play-along CD with sheet music, for pianists). Their latest publication, Dance at a Glance, a guide to Baroque dance, has just been released.


artist: Phil Rey
description: high impact dramatic film score music
homepage: phil_rey
city: Auriol
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/phil_rey_2.jpg
bio:
French composer Phil Rey was born in Paris but lives now in the South of France. Phil has had an unsual self-taught path to success. He spent 15 years in Grenoble as a live performer (rock-pop), before venturing into the worl of soundtrack music a few years ago. Influenced by heavyweights like Hans Zimmer and Harry Gregson-Williams, Phil has become a prolific writer of high-impact Dramatic, Classical, and Tribal film score music.

He has composed numerous pieces and concerts, but in 2009 he finally decided to devote himself to creating music that combines into a homogeneous whole his diverse musical tastes and share with other people the many adventures located in the four corners of the World.

Over the years, Phil gradually gained public recognition, directors and game developers with whom he had the chance to work, recognised his ability to understand their demands and offer them various musical atmospheres and quality.

Usually Phil works alone, home studio (sound banks, computers, MIDI keyboard, guitar ...) but he also offers recordings with an orchestra and / or soloists for some projects.

His work can be heard in numerous film trailers, 3D animation movies, video games, short films, medieval web series, and a great European live show.


artist: Piotr Janeczek
description: atmospheric, infinite spaces and ethereal worlds
homepage: piotr_janeczek
city: Mazowieckie
country: Poland
bandphoto: /artists/img/piotr_janeczek.jpg
bio:
Piotr Janeczek (aka Ashaneen) is an experienced and talented Ambient and New Age music composer from Poland, specializing in creating unique, high quality background music for relaxation and meditation. Piotr is also involved in the production of nature sounds recordings, as well creating guided meditations with readings.

Piotr has completed several courses in the field of healing and spiritual development such as Reiki, Esoteric Healing (INEH), The Art of Living, Silva Method, Transcendental Meditation and many more. Piotr is constantly working with the specialists of music therapy, hypnosis, psychotherapy, healing, and creates recordings that optimally support the process of relaxation to restore the balance of mental, emotional and physical health. His relaxation music is effective in achieving an ambiance of calm and harmony which is enough to make an individual feel relaxed, refreshed and renewed amidst life's daily rigors and challenges. Listening to his relaxing music has been a proven method when it comes to stress relief and energy rejuvenation.

Blending spacey atmospheres and ethereal worlds, dreamy choirs and distant voices, his mysterious and tranquil soundscapes are widely used as excellent music backgrounds in a variety of relaxation, meditation, healing, massage, sleep, hypnosis and psychoterapeutic sessions, spa and wellness purposes. For example, Piotr Janeczek's relaxation music was used as background in the online guided meditation program by Deepak Chopra and Oprah Winfrey called "Oprah and Deepak's 21-Day Meditation Experience: Desire & Destiny".

In addition to relaxation and meditation, Piotr's amazing tracks also work perfectly for documentary, film and audio-video projects involving space, science, wildlife, nature, travel, cultural, history, human relationships, mind and awareness, paranormal and mystical, science-fiction and fantasy themes. For example, Piotr Janeczek's music was used in the documentary "Young Ice" (as well as in th eOfficial Trailer), created by filmmaker Derek Hallquist (winner of the 2012 Sundance Grand Jury Prize for the US Documentary Competition) from Green River Pictures..

From 2007-2010, Piotr released several melodic and uplifting Trance mixes under the alias Yans, including "Sahara", "Ra'i Reva", "Inner Child", "For Magdi With Love" and more, supported by top DJ's in the world, like: Armin van Buuren ("A State Of Trance" ep. 375 & 376), Graham Gold, Aly & Fila, M.I.K.E., Solarstone, Martin Roth, Talla 2XLC, Giorgio Ponticelli, Tom Colontonio, Store'N'Forward, Suzy Solar, Pedro del Mar, John Wright, DJ Shah and many more...

You can find out more about Piotr under his alias Ashaneen on his website.


artist: Plunkett
description: warm acoustic indie pop from Italy
homepage: plunkett
city: Fabriano
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/plunkett.jpg
bio:
Both Ian and Lara had a love for music from a very early age. Lara chose the piano, Ian the guitar. After studying music in Rome, Lara became a partner of Dune Records, an independent Italian label.

Ian had played in a number of groups and after finding like minded musicians, formed the band Pukromo. In late 1999 they signed to Dune records recording their debut album Promise Me Kill Me in the year 2000.

Unfortunately, the album was never released-the band split and Dune Records closed down, but Lara and Ian got married in 2004, and after a few years-some old impulses to make music started creeping back and they started writing what would become the incredible 14 Days.

Disillusioned with the music business but left with a desire to write songs, Ian and Lara Plunkett write music for themselves. Without any thought or the pressure of trying be anything other than that. Themselves.


artist: Poeticall Musicke
description: Late Renaissance and Early Baroque music, historically performed
homepage: poeticall_musicke
city: York
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/poeticall_musicke.jpg
bio:
Poeticall Musicke is an early music band founded in 2011. Their exhilarating sound, engaging programmes and energetic schedule have attracted a growing audience, and notably the support of Dame Emma Kirkby DBE and Suzi Digby OBE as honorary patrons. They are one of the few ensembles to boast a permanent continuo array of baroque harp, theorbo, harpsichord, viol and lirone which they use in different combinations.

Poeticall Musicke is resident in many venues throughout the UK. If you miss the ensemble at their home residency at St James' (Islington), you can hear them perform monthly at All Saints Church (York), St Edward King and Martyr (Cambridge) and St Mary Magdalen (Oxford). They are also the resident baroque ensemble for the website Lyribox: a resource for singers. They have played throughout London in venues including the Southbank Centre, Christchurch Spitalfields and the Foundling Museum.

The ensemble regularly performs internationally and was recently featured in the 'Echi lontani' festival of early music in Sardinia.

Poeticall Musicke has embraced internet music distribution by providing outstanding recordings that are free to stream. Through their record label Veterum Musica they have gained an increasingly substantial online following, having attracted over 30,000 plays with six albums.

Poeticall Musicke is grateful for the support of the Early Music Shop and a growing number of patrons.

Rosemary Galton is a Fellow of the Historical Performance department at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where she continues her studies with Laura Sarti and Mhairi Lawson. Rosemary graduated from GSMD with an MMus in 2011, and prior to this held a choral scholarship at Clare College, Cambridge, where she read for a BA in Mathematics.

Rosemary regularly performs with Tenebrae, English Voices, Armonico Consort, Britten Sinfonia Voices and The Syred Consort, which she co-founded with conductor Ben Palmer in 2007. Recent solo performances include Hero and Climene in scenes from Cavalli's L'Egisto (Cavalli), Daphne in Jacopi Peri's Euridice, Dido in Dido and Aeneas (Iris Theatre / Orchestra of St Paul's), and Zerlina in Don Giovanni. Most recently Rosemary sang in the chorus for Jonathan Miller's staged production of Bach's St Matthew Passion at the National Theatre. www.rosemarygalton.co.uk

Kaisa Pulkkinen started playing the baroque triple harp when she was studying early music at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences in Helsinki. Her principle study was the recorder, but she also had lessons on the harpsichord and the modern harp. After finishing her studies in Finland in 2010 with excellent marks, she moved to London to study the baroque harp with Prof. Andrew Lawrence-King at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Kaisa has taken part in many productions directed by Annamari Polho, Paivi Jarvio, Juha Karvonen, Charles Barbier and Veli-Markus Tapio and has performed regularly as a soloist and chamber musician. She performed in the premiere of La Piedra de Don, a small opera for three singers and instruments by Herman Rechberger in 2008. Her playing can be heard on the recording of 17th century music "Ulrica" released in 2009 by the City Museum of Helsinki.

Alex McCartney is a lutenist studying at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. His current tutors are William Carter and David Miller. Prior to taking up the lute, Alex studied classical guitar, first with Mark Curry and then with Robert Brightmore at GSMD.

Continually in demand as an accompanist and soloist, Alex has performed extensively in the UK, working alongside artists such as Emma Kirkby, The English Concert, Poeticall Musicke, La Nuova Musica and the Royal Ballet. Alex has recently performed live on both BBC1 and Radio 3.

Alex is regularly recorded and is a resident artist with the record label Veterum Musica. He has recently recorded two solo lute albums and 'Canarios' a triple disc set of music for solo organ and theorbo, with organist and harpsichordist Joseph Chesshyre. Future plans include a complete recording of Giovanni Pittoni's full works for theorbo.

In 2011 Alex founded Poeticall Musicke, an early music group specialising in Renaissance to Mid-Baroque music. www.alexmccartney.co.uk

Donald Bennet is a post-graduate gambist studying with Liam Byrne at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He enjoys working with ensembles including Poeticall Musicke, Hanbarne Baroque Ensemble and Dei Gratia. Recent concert venues have included the Barbican, LSO St Lukes and Wigmore Hall.

In the last few months Donald has performed live on BBC1, ITV1 and BBC Radio 3.

Donald is a first-study cellist, as a student of Richard Lester at Guildhall. Prior to this, Donald was an Instrumental Award Holder at Clare College, Cambridge. www.donaldbennet.com

Joseph Chesshyre's musical career began aged five with piano and violin lessons. He has loved the harpsichord from a young age, but did not play one until he began his undergraduate degree at University of Edinburgh with tuition from John Kitchen. He has recently completed an MMus in harpsichord performance at GSMD with Carole Cerasi and James Johnstone, and has been made an Artist Fellow for this academic year.

Joseph is keyboard player for two new London groups, The Musicians of London Wall and Poeticall Musicke. Joseph particularly loves sixteenth- and seventeenth-century English keyboard and sacred vocal music. His other interests include instrument building, electroacoustic music and recording, and motorcycles.

Rafael Font began his violin studies at the age of 5 in the Emil Friedman School in Caracas, Venezuela. During his formative years Rafael was a student of Luis Miguel Gonzalez, Raimondas Butvila and Simon Gollo.

At the age of 15 Rafael became a member of the Virtuosi de Caracas orchestra, where he regularly performed as a soloist and leader. Since then, Rafael has performed as leader with numerous period and chamber ensembles including Guildhall School of Music & Drama's Baroque Orchestra, Lutes and Voices and Cantata ensembles, while collaborating with artists such as Pavlo Beznosiuk, Andrew Lawrence-King, Adrian Butterfield and David Watkin.

Other ensembles Rafael has worked with include Academy of Ancient Music, Poeticall Musicke, The Amade Players, La Nuova Musica. He is also a participant in the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment's Experience Scheme.

Rafael is currently studying violin in the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with professors Jacqueline Ross and Pavlo Beznosiuk, supported by the Harry Weinrebe Award.

George Clifford is a versatile musician, equally at home playing the organ and conducting the choir at his local parish church in East Grinstead, West Sussex and singing bass, tenor and countertenor in choirs around the UK as playing the violin and viola. He became interested in historical performance during his undergraduate violin studies at the Royal Academy of Music (RAM), and has now completed a Masters degree in baroque violin, having studied with Simon Standage and Matthew Truscott. George was awarded the prestigious DipRAM for an outstanding MA final recital.

Musicians George has worked with include Trevor Pinnock, Sir Charles Mackerras, John Butt, Edward Higginbottom, Laurence Cummings, Richard Egarr, Steven Devine, Lisa Beznosiuk, Pavlo Beznosiuk, Rachel Podger, Margaret Faultless and Mark Padmore and he has played with groups including the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the Academy of Ancient Music, the International Baroque Players, New Century Baroque, Charivari Agreable, Guildhall Gradutaes Baroque Orchestra, The Amade Players, Poeticall Musicke, The Regent's Soloists, RAM Baroque Orchestra, Britten-Pears Baroque Orchestra and La Nuova Musica. George has also recorded CDs with the Love Handelers, International Baroque Players, and New Century Baroque with the choir of New College, Oxford. George was a participant in the 'Ann and Peter Law OAE Experience for young players' in 2011 on both violin and viola.

When George is not busy playing he enjoys singing, mostly in amateur choirs, but occasionally as a soloist. He is a member of the choir of St Swithun's Church, East Grinstead (as well as being Deputy Organist), East Grinstead Choral Society, Kent Chorus, the London Orpheus Choir, Meridian Voices, In Spiritu Chamber Choir and 5 in a Bar.

George is generously sponsored by Hilary Weston.


artist: Pranavibes
homepage: pranavibes
city: Bruniquel
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/pranavibes.jpg
description:
creating a colorful atmosphere thats mixes tribal world music, African rhythms, folk and many rythmes

bio:
Pranavibes was born in 2011 between Paris and Burgundy in France. Didgeridoo player Adrien B. proposed a new idea to Antoine J. who was playing the guitar. The following year, David J.-M. joined the boat and brought his percussive approach. The crew was launched, and a new adventure was beginning using many different instruments : didgeridoo, cajon, goblet drum, handpan, musical saw, beatboxing, jew's harp, acoustic guitar, etc.

The band creates in its concerts a colorful atmosphere thats mixes tribal world music, African rhythms, folk or Brazilian rythmes.

In 2013, the band recorded its first EP 4 tracks and started to appear in concerts at festivals in France.

In 2015, Sarah F. arrived in the crew bringing her electronic touch. The band released its first full album (Explorations) in December 2015.


artist: prettyhowtown
description: playful, melodic, hand-made ambient electronic music
homepage: prettyhowtown
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/prettyhowtown_low.jpg
bio:
Working under the name prettyhowtown multi-instrumentalist John Noble creates sound and music on an analog modular synthesizer. John's music ranges from radio-friendly nostalgic techno influenced beats to microtonal soundscapes, trance-inducing generative works, and beyond. prettyhowtown has been featured on WNUR 89.3FM (Chicago), and he appeared as guest artist on Open Lab Radio's Beyond Corners on 89.9FM Ibiza and Formentera (Spain).

John is primarily a performance artist and frequently plays in clubs and at music festivals. Using no computers, samplers, or other modern musical aids, John improvises music on the fly using the knobs, switches and wires on the instrument itself. The result is a journey of exploration for artist and audience alike.

prettyhowtown's recorded music is made the same way: every track was recorded live to a stereo recorder, usually in one take, and is presented without editing. John feels this best preserves the spirit of his music: intensely, spiritually, and imperfectly made by a man rather than a machine.

You can find more information about prettyhowtown here.


artist: Processor
description: industrial acid house.
homepage: processor
city: Orebro
country: Sweden
bandphoto: /artists/img/processor_photo.jpg
bio:
Johan Isaksson, known professionally as Processor is an electronic music producer from Sweden.

Since the debut album Insomnia (2004), Processor has released 13 albums. Always evolving the sound. Justice way (2019) from the album Justice was added to Spotify's Industrial Metal playlist.

Royal leash (2020) became a hit in the industrial scene.

Furthermore, Processor has contributed to the soundtrack of the VR-game "Pistolwhip" from Cloudhead Games.

Johan Isaksson also releases his own music under the name of Magnatune artist "Wicked boy".


artist: Professor Armchair
description: demented 19th century children's music
homepage: armchair
state: OR
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/tmm.jpg
bio:
I learned to play arrangements of country and delta blues, ragtime and other early 20th century music on guitar as a beginner. These were contractions of the originals. Notes deeper and higher than what a guitar could sound were squeezed into a narrower range and some complexities had to be removed altogether. The arrangements on Too Much Mustard are quite different. If anything they are expansions in many senses of the word. The harmonic overtones shimmer, dance and bass-lines crab and growl in ways impossible with non-digital instruments. These may be late 19th/early 20th century popular tunes, but they use distinctly 21st century instruments. These arrangements were literally painted using special software, not performed. In many ways they are 21st century equivalents of early 20th century player pianos. In many ways Professor Armchair straddles the centuries.

This music at its best evokes happiness of a by-gone era. Circuses and carousels and calliopes, oh my! To some they may appear to be pandering, even kitsch. But the truth is they reflect the optimism, the innocence and the fun-loving of our great grandparents. They saw the future as a time for opportunity, for hope, for joy. And what could be bad in that? Few could imagine the horrors of two world wars nor fewer still the attacks of the 21st century.

Many of the titles are obscure, yet some achingly familiar. Where have we heard Me-ow before? In grainy old black and white cartoons of mewling alley cats, most likely, but I've been unable to find such a cartoon in my modest collection (and I have copies of all the Betty Boop cartoons).

Is this music whose time has come and gone? Ragtime's popularity has never completely disappeared. And nearly everyone will associate Funeral March of a Marionette with a certain film director with a highly characteristic, bulbous profile.

Other figures of public notoriety associated themselves with these songs. The title tune "Tres Moutarde" (Too Much Mustard) was the theme song of early pilot Lincoln Beachey. Beachey hired bands to play it as he looped the loop in his small stunt airplane before paying crowds of amazed onlookers. He felt the song's title Too Much Mustard suited his personality to a "T." He was just a little too much. The arrangements in this collection are perhaps just a bit too much mustard themselves.

Is this music suitable only for children? As they say in the circus: this is music for "children of all ages."

If you look behind the curtain, you'll find that Professor Armchair is none other than Magnatue artist Glen Bledsoe.


artist: Psychetropic
description: intelligent electronic listening music
homepage: psychetropic
state: AZ
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/psychetropic.jpg
bio:
Todd Fletcher (the musician behind Psychetropic) has been creating electronic music since 1983, using an Apple IIe computer, inspired primarily by the music of Klaus Schulze and Brian Eno. From the beginning his music emphasized the union of sound design with melody and rythm to create a complete sound matrix.

Fletcher's first releases were cassettes for the Poison Plant label, including a track on the LP compilation Charmed. In 1994 he self-released the CD Byzantium, inspired by a growing fascination with Middle Eastern music. Following in 1995 was an excursion into desert ambience, Star, on the Amplexus sub-label Arya. In 1996 Fletcher appeared on two compilations CD's, Twilight Earth II (Timebase) and Soundscape Gallery I (Lektronic Soundscapes)

The microrelease label debuted in 2001 with two releases. Arcane Energies combines the desert atmospheres of Star with the dense rythmic interplay of Byzantium. 23 introduced Fletcher's side-project Psychetropic, exploring a techno/Berlin School sound.

Fletcher's interest in sound design as an integral aspect of music continues to deepen. Currently producing music entirely on computer, he uses numerous software tools to create singular sound atmospheres condusive to dreaming and reflection.


artist: Psycliq
description: an electric heart with an organic soul
homepage: psycliq
state: MA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/psycliq.jpg
bio:
Nominally an electronic rock project, the best word to describe Psycliq's music has to be "ecclectic". Ranging from hard rock to smooth jazz, from ambient techno to gritty blues, Psycliq's music defies a single genre classification. Citing influences as diverse as Celldweller, Glenn Kaiser Band, poor old lu, and Joy Electric, Psycliq makes music that is often unique and always interesting.

With three albums currently available worldwide, Psycliq shows no signs of stopping. Psycliq begain producing original recorded music in the early 2000's, but it was The Mathemagican's Riddle, an EP released in 2007, that emerged as the first Psycliq project available to the outside world. An experimental project from the start, this album proved to be an interesting cross-section of what this band was capable of.

Two years later, Psycliq released halt, a ten-song instrumental album that is a study in interconnections. From moody rock to electronic anthems, halt was a chance for the band to spread its wings and show what it was capable of. Less than a year later, Psycliq followed up the success of the electronic rock of halt by going in a completely different direction with Results Not Typical. While blues, jazz, and classical music have always been at the core of Psycliq songs, this album has brought them to the forefront, resulting in some of the band's most ambitious work to date.

A Boston-area musician named Justin Richer is the sole force behind Psycliq, handling all writing, performance, and production for the band. A classically trained pianist from a family of rich musical heritage, Justin has grown up surrounded by music from an early age. Ever since his piano teacher introduced him to the Korg M1 music workstation, Justin has been enamoured with the possibilities of music synthesis.

In addition to keyboarded instruments, Justin is also an accomplished guitarist, fond of layering guitars and basses with programmed instruments (not to mention the occasional vocal or percussion track) to create Psycliq's sound. Produced entirely in a home studio in spare time, Psycliq shows what's possible to accomplish today with a do-it-yourself attitude and a bit of ingenuity.


artist: Putinki Church Choir
description: clear calm voices of spiritual music
homepage: putinki_church_choir
city: Moscow
country: Russia
bandphoto: /artists/img/putinki_group_2.jpg
bio:
The principal repertoire of the Putinki Church Choir is sacred music and church a capella singing, based on the centuries-long traditions of the Russian Orthodox worship service.

In contrast with the secular performance, where the aim is to delight the listener, the primary purpose in church is to unite all participants of the service in a single entity. The goal of the church choir is to help people concentrate on the prayer, abandon mundane affairs and vanities of the world for a while. Choral pieces performed during the service should not distract, but rather aid the person in becoming its fully-fledged participant.

The choir was formed in 2002 at the Moscow Church of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God 'in Putinki', which was destroyed during the Soviet times, but now rebuilt from ruins and open to the public. The choir is made up of eight members, some of whom are professional musicians: singers, choir conductors, violinists, as well as of amateur singers. All of them share common faith and the will to participate in the service with their soul, heart and voice.


artist: Quantum Milkshake
description: A surreal, soundtrack&#45;inspired, dance band
homepage: quantum_milkshake
city: Beaumaris
country: Australia
bandphoto: /artists/img/quantum_milkshake.jpg
bio:
Quantum Milkshake: that's Breakbeat, Dance, Epic, Soundtrack-inspired, Experimental, Video-game influenced, Journey, Jazz, Funk, Abstract, Surreal, Wild, Beautiful, Melodic, Synthy, Psychedelic AND Instrumental complexity crushed into each piece of highly involved music!

These crazy worlds created by the 10-piece band, 14-piece orchestra and post-production experimentation are constructed and finely detailed by the brainchild of the project, Fabian Acuña.

In the case of Fabian's music, the twisted phrase of 'more is more' definitely clicks when listening to this "psychedelic cacophony of sound". The intricate detail within each piece really is an exciting, heart-racing roller-coaster ride for the imagination. The detail in textures for each emotive segment of the piece are carefully thought out to realise whatever world that Fabian's brain resides on.

Through the organised chaos heard within each arrangement, many of the instruments heard within the album include Trumpet, Sax, Trombone, Guitar, Keyboards, Organs, Drums, Percussion, Violins, Violas, Cellos, Choir, Bass and various synths and FX made within postproduction. Fabian's background of studying classical music at an arts-specialized high school catapulted his skills in arranging, composing and music theory. With an unforeseen twist seen at the start of his jazz Bachelor's degree, music production became his new hobby fulfilling his perfectionist ways in composition. This lead him to create more complex and unplayable music for his own satisfaction and by the end of his degree, gave birth to this very band, Quantum Milkshake. Somehow, this music came to life through the amazing musicianship of each member of the band who Fabian also had an amazing friendship with.

The band unfortunately officially performed their last show in May 2017 but Fabian Acuña is now currently creating an Epic 26 song Alphabet album under his own name, involving over 30 musicians and hoping to release 2018/2019.


artist: Radhamohan and Savitri
description: meditative, world, kirtan
homepage: radhamohan_savitri
city: Islake
country: Slovenia
bandphoto: /artists/img/radhamohan_savitri.jpg
bio:
Radhamohan is a multi instrumentalist, music producer, spiritual seeker and a flutemaker from Slovenia. His world of sound is a fusion of instruments from different cultures around the world that blend together into something unique and fresh.

He plays various ethnic flutes, Indian santoor, dholak drum, mridanga drum, and various ethnic percussion. 17 years of rhythm and in last few years strong passion for ethereal sound of flutes result in musical journeys that take us to a place where the earth and the sky meet.

Savitri is a singer very much dedicated to chanting of mantras which are an integral part of her life. Most common words with which listeners describe her singing are: "Serenity, purity and simplicity, angelic."

They both experience music as highly transformative and think of it is as a powerful medium for connecting with the Divine. They feel that kirtan as a musical and devotional expression is ever evolving and their music is an example of such evolution.


artist: Ralph Rousseau Meulenbroeks
description: virtuoso viola da gamba
homepage: meulenbroeks
city: Amsterdam
country: Netherlands
bandphoto: /artists/img/meulenbroeks.jpg
bio:
Ralph Meulenbroeks showed his prodigious musical talent at an early age, playing the piano and bass guitar at the age of eight. He later combined his double bass and gamba studies with a masters and Ph.D. in physics.

Meulenbroeks played double bass in the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam and gave many recitals and solo concerts in the Netherlands and abroad, including numerous radio and television performances. He also still managed to find time to play in rock, jazz, and pop bands.

From 1995 onwards, Ralph Meulenbroeks has specialised in performing early music, studying viola da gamba with Jaap ter Linden. He is now an esteemed soloist in works such as the passions, sonatas, and cantatas of J.S. Bach, and has released several CDs. His previous CD, Voix Humaines with music for viola da gamba solo was proclaimed "a true monument for the art of gamba playing" in the Dutch press.

Ralph Meulenbroeks played in the Fringe of the Early Music Festival in Utrecht (from 2000 to 2002), in the Early Music Network (2003 and 2004), and his solo recitals have taken him throughout Europe, United States, and China.

On Moved by Marais, Meulenbroeks plays a six string viola da gamba by Georg Aman (Augsburg), early 18th century on the G minor and G major suites, and a seven string viola da gamba after Michel Colichon (1693) by Reinhard Ossenbrunner (2003) on all other tracks. Meulenbroeks is joined by Pieter-Jan Belder, conductor of Musica Amphion and a gifted player of the harpsichord, clavichord, organ, forte-piano, and recorder. He is also joined by Remy Baudet, principal violinist of the Orchestra of the 18th Century, Musica Amphion, ensemble Le Zephyre, and the Van Swieten Society.


artist: Rapoon
description: Ambient/World dream field
homepage: rapoon
city: Newcastle
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/rapoon.jpg
bio:
I first began to work seriously with sound in the mid-seventies. I moved into this medium from the disciplines of painting and printmaking. Sound had the added attraction of unfolding over time.

Time is an important aspect in my work. There are references and connections to time running throughout the body of my work from the first to the last.

Early influences included Can and Neu, Stockhausen and Cage. These gradually gave way to the music that I was discovering myself which was more in line with Eno and Hassell and extreme experimentalists like Throbbing Gristle and Test Department.

I was a founder member of the band :zoviet*france: who are generally regarded as amongst the pioneers of the post-industrial experimental genre and who have influenced many more mainstream bands in the following years.

My own work has been noted as having a unique style and individuality and has itself fed back into more mainstream genres in the form of commissioned sample libraries, collaborations and re-mixes, and film and installation work.

As a continuing practitioner in the visual arts I do not draw a clear distinction between the two mediums. The work in both areas is inter-related and cross-referenced. This is perhaps best illustrated by referring to my earliest releases, which were vinyl LP's encased in a succession of unlikely and impractical "sleeves". This served at least two purposes; one being to demonstrate that the "object" was equally as important as the music contained in the medium. (These sleeves were all hand-made and hand-printed on a variety of materials including hessian, hardboard, aluminum, roofing-felt, ceramic boxes etc. and have since become collector's items as "art objects".)

The second purpose derived exactly from the "punk" ethos of doing it yourself and the "f*** you" attitude embodied within punk. (We had been told that it was impossible to make these sleeves in any commercially viable quantity and were determined to prove the critic's wrong.)

The third purpose, of course, was that it set our releases apart from the norm.

Whenever possible I have carried this practice over into later works and continued to place equal emphasis on the artwork included with a release and the object itself, with CDs encased in specially designed, and often hand-made, packaging. The purpose, once again, is to make something "special" and to elevate it beyond the usual defining parameters. Subsequently they have become objects of much greater significance to people than they would have been had they been released in ordinary cardboard sleeves or crystal cases.

The definition of the genre that I work within is one that is also open to interpretation. I think of my work as "soundtrack" music and as such it remains open to the inclusion of whatever style I see as relevant. This also allows me to include narrative occasionally e.g. "Tin of Drum" includes narrative pieces written and performed by myself. These owe something to David Lynch and Twin Peaks.

A visit to the real Twin Peaks during an American tour prompted me to later write the pieces which were imaginary spoken statements given to the FBI concerning the whereabouts of the narrators on a date some forty-five years previously. The point being that this would be an almost impossible task, yet all the people "interviewed" managed to give accounts of the day in question. It didn't really matter if the stories were true or not, the narrators were all glad to have been asked as it somehow gave some kind of meaning to their lives.

This is reflected in the statements that they make which include details and insights into their lives, as they judge them to be. In this case these characters (like Becket's) judge their lives as essentially pointless and filled with regret.

The "Tin of Drum" in the title is a reference to my own search for some comfort whilst in a situation that at times seemed pointless and wearisome. In the middle of an exhausting and demanding tour where I missed my family and home my "happiness" devolved down to feeding my (then) last remaining addiction - tobacco. After running out of the rolling tobacco that I had brought with me from Europe I had been reduced to buying awful, unsmokeable American blends and was growing more and more agitated and depressed. Then at an unpromising gas stop I wandered into the small store and there alone on the shelf behind the counter was a solitary tin of Drum rolling tobacco. (My all-time favourite.) It suddenly became the Holy Grail of salvation; I could almost see a blazing aura of light around it. My body jumped for joy and once again I was confronted with the question "what do we seek from life" and what makes us "happy".

We can search for truth and meaning and enlightenment yet seemingly "bliss" can be attained with a hand-rolled cigarette of Dutch tobacco and a cup of Italian espresso.

Reflections on the human need to attach some kind of "meaning" to life could serve as one definition of what my work is about.


artist: Ras Tilo
description: dub, reggae, hip hop and world music from the heart
homepage: ras_tilo
city: Freiburg im Breisgau
country: Germany
bandphoto: /artists/img/ras_tilo.jpg
bio:
Ras Tilo is a travelling musician, music producer and a free music activist. His love to the off-beat grooves can be definitely recognized in his music, but his desire to experiment with sounds and languages has no borders and is quite difficult to describe, so why don't you just have a listen? ;)

Vincent Rateau grew up in Paris where he enjoyed his first musical approach with classical music, playing violin for a period of 12 years. He started developing his individual style, when he moved from France to Germany and started guitar and vocals.

In a reggae-dub band he has been experimenting with off-beat roots music, mixing languages (English, French, German and Esperanto) and music genres (dub, reggae, irish folk and world music). After 4 years of university, he graduated in linguistics and science of medias, then, finally music got the better of it. By his artist's name "Ras Tilo", he started producing his own music. Travels throughout the world definitely added to its original style. You can easily recognize the French and German touch, but also an Irish soul, which he caught working for a recording studio in Galway. La Reunion Island, The Seychelles Islands, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Greece, Great Britain are just a few to name among many others that add to the unique flavour in his work.

Considering himself neither French nor German, his multi-cultural background can be seen and heard in his music: bringing musicians together, mixing instruments and music genres, remixing, re-remixing and trying to show the beauty of our world's (musical) diversity and the unity in it.

Nowadays he is running his own mobile recording studio under GNU/Linux (www.sonejo.net), releasing the produced music mostly under the Creative Commons Licence. Furthermore he is playing and producing music in different side-projects.


artist: Ray Carl Daye
description: atmospheric ambient/electronic music
homepage: raycarldaye
state: Ottawa
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/ray_carl_daye_1.jpg
bio:
Ray Carl Daye has been writing and recording electronic/ambient music since 2006. His first album Spectral Navigator, released on Magnatune in 2008 was chosen by Galactic Travels radio as a Top 20 CD of June 2009. His second album Echoes From the Aether released in 2010 was played on the nationally syndicated program Hearts Of Space.

His third album titled Rapid Ear Movement released on Magnatune in 2012 was influenced by minimalists Steve Reich and Philip Glass, as well as Brian Eno.

"Ray Carl Daye displays an impressive talent that I'm quite moved by..."
Rik Maclean, ping things

"we are absolutely crazy about your music..."
John Buckman, Founder/Owner of Magnatune


artist: Ray Montford
description: Evocative, melodic and haunting instrumental guitar music
homepage: ray_montford
city: Toronto
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/ray_montford.jpg
bio:
Ray Montford is a guitar player who lets his instrument sing with abandon. Rich in imagery, his compositions are fuelled by a celebration of the human spirit, the open road and the backwoods wilderness, which all inspire haunting sonic canvasses of wild and raw beauty. While Montford's touch is reminiscent of British blues/rock masters, this unique Canadian talent and soulful player is making waves with a confident swagger and powerful sound all his own, wringing emotion from every note.

Ray recently released his sixth studio album, Vintage Is Now, an evocative collection of originals steeped in a seamless mix of jazz, blues and rock; a shout-out that this musician has arrived. Produced by veteran Terry Brown (Rush/Klaatu/Max Webster) - Vintage shows Ray in peak form, as composer and guitarist.

Born in Ottawa, Ray began learning by ear and woodshedding with the great rock records of that era. After studying audio engineering, production, and performance in the Music Industry Arts program at Fanshawe College and doing a term in the music program at Humber, he began writing and recording his own music, and by 1995 was dedicating most of his priorities in that discipline.

Between 1994-'97, he was the guitar player for the Rankins and from 1997-'99, Mary Jane Lamond. His compositions have been heard on National CBC radio and have been licensed for various television series. For more than 15 years Ray and his rhythm section, featuring some of Canada's best players, have played for audiences and loyal fans at music festivals, clubs, theatres, house concerts and private parties. They toured parts of Europe in 2001, shared the stage with the Tony Levin Band (alumnae of Peter Gabriel) in 2003 and sold out the Young Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto for the release of A Fragile Balance in 2007.

Recently, they played the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts to a sold-out audience, the Oakville Jazz Festival (2010 and 2012), Markham Jazz Festival (2012), and the Canadian Guitar Festival (2009, 2011 and 2014).

Ray has gratefully received support from the Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council, Factor and External Affairs as well as sponsorship from Totem Acoustic and Paradigm for his compostions, recording and performances. He has been a juror for the Toronto Arts Council's Composer Program and twice for the Gemini awards. Periodically, he scores original music to picture.

"Ray Montford is a sensitive and exploratory musician who combines traditional techniques with exciting world music influences."
Atom Egoyan

"As hypnotic as a highway at night, always-moving, always-changing scenery, the kind of music you hear on an old car radio in the middle of nowhere."
- Denis Armstrong, Ottawa Sun


artist: Rebel Rebel
description: glamtastic Hollywood shock rock
homepage: rebel_rebel
city: Newcastle
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/rebelrebel5.jpg
bio:
Got glam? Hollywood shock rock kings Rebel Rebel have it to burn. Not only did the band recently inspire its very own brand of hair gel from P/Taylor USA, but when they found themselves banned from most live L.A. venues for their infamous stage antics, they did what any true glam rocker would do: they opened their own nightclub.

"When you come to one of our shows, you don't know if you're going to get drunk with us or burn the place down, and that's what kids love today," says guitarist Teddy Heavens. They want to be scared and have a good time. NO RULES. We offer something to look at and participate in. Slam dancing and moshing are so boring. If you like being entertained and partying, then you'll love us."

R2 influences include Kiss, Plasmatics, and Alice Cooper, and the band has collaborated with producers Jon Mathias (Meatloaf, Kiss) and Brian Kehew (Air, Alice Cooper). Explode Into Space is Rebel Rebel's 2005 release of deliciously riff heavy rock, and the band also recently kicked in contributions to Lost Anarchy and Hollywood Rocks-compilations of legedary L.A. glam bands including Poison, WASP, Stryper, Great White, and Warrant.

Known for their insanely fun, high energy live act, Rebel Rebel tours widely and recently performed at La Scene Bastille in Paris with Undercover Slut, as well as The Cat Club in West Hollywood and The Aristocrat in Las Vegas. Their tour was recently documented by a Fox News team, which followed the band around for a week. Rebel Rebel was also recently featured in Critical Vision's hilarious anthology of worst-ever road experiences, Gigs From Hell.


artist: Red Sky Lullaby
description: Lush Downtempo Electroacoustic Grooves
homepage: red_sky_lullaby
state: NY
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/red_sky_lullaby.jpg
bio:
Red Sky Lullaby is Stuart Kilbride. He grew up in London on a diet of Funk, Jazz, Prog Rock, Hip Hop, Ambient and Electronica.

Early musical experiences included playing violin in a youth orchestra, learning to play piano and cheap Yamaha keyboards with tiny keys - experimenting late into the night making mixes with 80's tape to tape recorders. Stuart then progressed to using a mixing desk to record to 2inch analog tape and created strange noises by winding tapes backwards and forwards in a youth center studio.

Then came the wonders of 4 track home studios and thence into the world of sampling and analog synths. For better or worse he still doesn't use computers much. He is still using oldschool hardware samplers, 16trk and a hardware sequencer from the the early 90's that you need a degree in math to operate but its still never crashed or glitched out on him to this day.

Stuart has released music under various names and record labels in Europe and Japan including, Ambient Soho, 2Kool, Avex and Millenium records. He has also done music for TV and had stuff on shows broadcast all over the world. In 2006 he moved from London across the pond to the snowy plains of upstate NY and started working on the Red Sky Lullaby project.

Red Sky Lullaby is a collaborative project between Stuart (Instruments and Production) and various talented vocalists. Sometimes the music is made first with vocals added on top and sometimes the music is constructed around a bare acapella vocal that someone sends him. Stuart loves doing collaborations with vocalists/mc's as he gets bored working alone after a while and bored if he sticks to one genre. As he says so himself, "mostly music helps me keep my head in check!".

For more info visit Stuart's website, Facebook page and Youtube channel.


artist: Rejuvenescence
description: soothing meditation music.
homepage: rejuvenescence
state: Ontario
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/tomlewis.jpg
bio:
Tom Lewis is an accomplished professional musician, and his latest project - Rejuvenescence - explores the more contemplative side of his talents. Dreamscapes is his first relase through this project, and features tranquil music for relaxation, as well as meditation and yoga. It's also ideal background music for all therapeutic settings, or just for general unwinding after a long day.

Tom has shared the stage with big names like the Moody Blues and the Beach Boys, and has released a fantastic pop-rock album, Automatic Ordinary with his other band, Five Star Fall.

"As a composer, producer and bassist, my musical journey continues to be a lifelong joy," says Tom. "I will hopefully never stop learning and absorbing from the many great artists I have worked with. The life experiences that we all share, i.e. birth ("Mist of Dawn"), life and death ("Shining Place") and rebirth ("Rejuvenescence") have inspired the music in Dreamscapes. It is my sincere hope that you find this music as soothing and comforting to the soul as I have in its creation."


artist: Reza Manzoori
description: minimalist acoustic guitar compositions
homepage: reza
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/reza.jpg
bio:
Reza Manzoori was born in the year of the fire horse in Shiraz, Iran, a city famous for its wine, rose gardens, and poetry. He remembers an early affinity for music and rhythm, but didn't begin playing until rather late in life at 17 when he found an old guitar belonging to his sister in the basement of the house they lived in. The guitar had only the three treble strings. Still, this was more than enough to work with. "The first chord I ever learned was a D chord and I think it was because the guitar only had those three strings".

A Segovia cassette was another inspiration. "Finding a Segovia album in post-revolution Iran was not at all impossible, however to me it was more than a call to the understanding of the guitar. It was a call to the understanding of music itself. I realized that the guitar wasn't the instrument, but that music was, and the guitar was simply a tool for the instrument of Music."

Upon arriving to the United States Reza enrolled in Los Angeles Valley College. Throughout his attendance there he held first chair in both the LAVC Guitar Ensemble and the Monarch Guitar Quartet, an extension of the guitar department headed by Robert G. Mayeur. "Performing (solos) was a great lesson for me. Knowing that I had nothing but the music to play allowed me to forget that I was all alone up there."

His musical experiences are wide and varied. "I wanted to be a great guitar player, but more than that I wanted to be a great musician. And so music in all its forms became appealing to me. I thank my sister for leaving me that old guitar with three strings, and the Creator for blessing my ears. I sometimes wonder what might have happened had it been a didgeridoo."

Reza currently resides with his family in North Hollywood, California.


artist: Richard MacKenzie
description: Virtuoso English Lutenist and Guitarist
homepage: richard_mackenzie
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/richard_mackenzie_new.jpg
bio:
Lutenist Richard MacKenzie is rapidly gaining recognition as a soloist and collaborative artist on renaissance and baroque lutes, renaissance and baroque guitars, vihuela, orpharion and theorbo.

He is currently a permanent member of multiple ensembles, including; Chordophony (Europe's only professional lute quartet), Charivari Agreable (dir. Kah-Ming Ng), Oxford Baroque (dir. Jeremy Summerly), The Portrait Choir (choir-in-residence at The National Portrait Gallery), Lyrica, Galliarda, Balisiensis and Mascherata, and his many collaborations include Ex Cathedra (dir. Jeffrey Skidmore), Linden Baroque, The Marian Consort, Cothen Baroque, New London Orchestra (dir. Ronald Corp), The Madrigirls, Ars Nova, The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Royal Academy Opera and Baroque Orchestra (dir. Jane Glover), The Bristol Baroque Soloists, The Yorkshire Baroque Soloists (dir. Peter Seymour), His Majestys Sagbutts and Cornetts, I Fagiolini (dir. Robert Hollingworth), Solomon's Knot, The BREMF Renaissance Orchestra, The MUSARC Choir, Fiori Musicali featuring James Bowman, Viaggio Musicale (University of Oxford ensemble, dir. Richard MacKenzie), The City Waites (dir. Lucie Skeaping), The Apollo Baroque Consort, Vignette Productions, The Amade Players, The Brook Street Band, Nonsuch Dance Company and Musicians, Vespri Segreti, Sounds Baroque, The North Cotswold Chamber Choir (dir. Sarah Tenant-Flowers), The Fieri Consort, Il Festino, and Oxford's New Chamber Opera (dir. Michael Burden, mus. dir. Steven Devine).

In April 2012 Richard assistant-directed the European Lute Orchestra's appearance at the Teatro Olimpico, Vicenza. Summer 2012 saw Richard working as a musician (medieval lute, cittern, tambourella, field drum) at Shakepeare's Globe for their production of Shakepeare's 'Henry V' (feat. Jamie Parker). Spring 2014 saw Richard return to Shakespeare's Globe as principal musician for the revival of Lucy Bailey's controversial production of Shakespeare's 'Titus Andronicus'.

Music festival appearances include York Early Music Festival (twice), Lufthansa Festival of Baroque Music, Brighton Early Music Festival (BREMF) (twice), Festival van Vlaanderen-Antwerpen (AMUZ), Royal Greenwich International Early Music Festival and Exhibition (twice), London Handel Festival, Oxford Early Music Festival, Wilderness Festival, Clifton International Festival, Turl Street Arts Festival and Freemantle Music and Arts Festival.

Richard has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3's 'In Tune' on multiple occasions, and he has appeared on BBC Two's 'London Calling' with Jools Holland (see Youtube video below). He is due to appear on the soundtrack of the forthcoming cinematic release 'Bill', featuring the cast of BBC television's 'Horrible Histories'. Richard will also make his dramaturgical cinematic and DVD debut upon the release of Shakespeare's Globe's 'Titus Andronicus'.

In 2011 Richard completed a degree in music at The Queen's College, University of Oxford. Whilst studying at the university he was also a keen solo performer, performing seven solo recitals in some of the most diverse concert venues across Oxford. Presently he continues to occasionally study lute with the internationally renowned lutenists Jakob Lindberg and Jacob Heringman, having previously studied at Chetham's School of Music with Hugh Cherry and Martin Shepherd, a school where has was awarded three prizes, including those for 'Early Music' and for 'Academic Music'.

In 2012 the Lute Society of Great Britain published his first edition, a critical edition and reconstruction of the ensemble works from Giovanni Battista Granata's Armoniosi Toni (Bologna, 1684). Richard also possesses diplomas in recorder and clarinet performance, and was principal clarinettist for the National Children's Orchestra in his youth.

Richard is an experienced recorder, guitar, piano and academic music tutor, tutoring up to A-Level, and also tutoring ABRSM theory grades. He has taught lute seminars and masterclasses involving members of the student community both at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and the University of Chichester. He was also made a tutor on the NWEMF's summer school at the age of 17. Addionally, Richard has conducting and piano accompanimental experience, once directing a staged performance of Handel's 'The Choice of Hercules', and co-directing the Heanor Community Choir and Full House Orchestra.

You can also find out more about Richard on his website.


artist: Rildrim
description: electronic music becomes poetry
homepage: rildrim
city: Las Palmas
country: Spain
bandphoto: /artists/img/rildrim_project.jpg
bio:
Rildrim is a multimedia art project aimed on producing technology based multi-sensory and conceptual experiences through the synergy of different disciplines. His creator, Carlos Butler, is an electronic music composer and producer from the Canary Islands, Spain, with classical training and mastering of music technology who's been in the business for ten years

After learning from some electronic music styles like ambient, minimal, psychill and techno, he's built a personal universe very influenced by visual arts and poetry and based on his own aesthetic and structural principles with a set of elements shifting from subtle and delicate sonic atmospheres, subliminal micro grooves, deep bass lines and complex textures to more powerful leads, resonating melodies and solid beats.

Always exploring new musical horizons and cutting edge technologies of sound processing and generation, his source of inspiration seems to have no end as an infinite path to a cosmic consciousness and a new way to fathom the eternal beauty of this invisible language.

You can hear more of Rildrim's work on his Soundcloud page.


artist: Rimi Basu
description: Catchy Indian fusion pop tunes by versatile Indian-American singer and dancer
homepage: rimi_basu
state: MD
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/rimi_basu_low.jpg
bio:
Rimi Basu, an Indian-American pop singer, represents a unique and versatile addition to the music industry. An ex-medical school student who dropped out of her prestigious program and defied Indian-American societal expectations to run away to India and become a musician, she has since completed two music albums and toured around the world, performing and creating music.

Trained in Indian classical music and dance from a young age, as well as an accomplished belly dancer, her unique selling proposition is the combination of both music and dance in her live performances.

While in India, she trained with renowned musicians and pundits of Indian music, including Ajoy Chakrobarty in Kolkata, India at his school, Srutinandan. However, her love affair with Indian music started from a young age, as she was trained in Indian classical music and dance and had a deep affinity for the Indian arts and entertainment. The daughter of Indian Immigrants-turned Washington bureaucrats from Calcutta (Kolkata, as it is known in their homeland), she grew up negotiating multiple selves: One who attended an Indian Language School that her father founded in Washington DC and actively learned Indian classical music and dance, and another, who avidly listened to hip hop, RnB, and American pop with her Black, Asian, Latin, and White peers.

These influences culminate in her music, which reflects her own multi-faceted upbringing and identity. Basu produced two albums in India, The Unveiling (2006) and Crossing Over (2009), which received acclaim and a high demand for performances in India.

Her hit song and music video "Maahiya" topped Indian music charts in the Indian pop category and received Bestseller status. Thereafter, she performed across India, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States at various venues large and small for appreciative audiences.

Rimi has now found herself back in the United States to propagate her unique brand of Indian fusion through forming a world music and dance collective called Kriya. Her goal has been and will continue to be increasing appreciation for Indian music and culture through unique and experimental fusion with Western styles.

Rimi is well-equipped to be the USA's first Bollywood pop diva. A talented and dynamic singer and dancer of various styles, ranging from Indian classical to RnB and pop, her unique brand of cultural fusion engages and intrigues a broad range of listeners. Her trademark style of blending Indian and belly dance with vocals in her performances has kept audiences in awe worldwide. She is also quite possibly one of the most adventurous Indian-Americans raised in the USA.

You can find out more about Rimi Basu on her website.


artist: Riot Kings
description: when music rocks, Riot Kings rule!
homepage: riot_kings
state: CT
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/riot_kings.jpg
bio:
The Riot Kings are one of the hottest up and coming bands in America today. Based out of Southern Connecticut, the band has been tearing up the Northeast club scene.

The Riot Kings sound is hard rock with massive grooves and big, fat hooks. Sales of their first two albums keep growing steadily, not just in the US but also in South America and Japan. T

As great as the albums are, a live performance by Riot Kings is an awesome event that you won't believe! This group of talented musicians brings an unbelievable amount of charisma and intensity to the stage. At a Riot Kings concert you feel like you are part of an incredible musical adventure that you wish would never end!

In addition to their great original material, the band also performs amazing re-makes of some cool hit songs. Check out Riot Kings or else you are missing the coolest party on the planet.

Riot Kings are:
Kent Johannesen - Vocals
Billy "Bones" Barclay - Guitar
Keith Sinnott - Bass
Marc Mascagna - Drums


artist: Rob Cosh
description: Music For Your Inner Ear
homepage: rob_cosh
city: Ottawa
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/rob_cosh.jpg
bio:
Rob Cosh is a freelance audio engineer/producer and composer. His recording/mixing credits include: Brad Sucks, The Peptides, Jam Toast, Grill Shots, Rob Meyer, Gert, Shot Pounder and Margaret Tobalowska. Rob has also released music as "thehipcola". While likely to be found in the studio sculpting sound, heÕs also been spotted meditating, camping, tuning pianos and designing websites.

As a lover of all music, Rob has explored many divergent styles of music under a variety of names - most notably, "thehipcola". His most recent release, PONDER, is released under his name and is a reflection of his desire to surf the inner world and chart it's territories. He spent alot of time collecting ambient sounds from nature to weave through the tracks, lending an organic feel to the project. While the music is startlingly different than his first release as "thehipcola" entitled SOUNDTRACK, PONDER represents a continuation of Rob's fascination with underpinning life's journeys with music.

You can find out more about Rob on his website.

On his latest album Rob collaborates with Scott Pinkerton. Scott is a classically trained pianist and multi-instrumentalist living in London, ON, Canada.


artist: Rob Costlow
description: melodic piano pieces
homepage: costlow
state: IL
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/costlow4.jpg
bio:
Music lovers of all ages will be transported to a less complicated, more relaxed world with Costlow's collection of original piano melodies that showcase the talent and universal reach of his passionate and raw sound. Even though Costlow's music is often placed with certain genres, his style is neither new age, classical or jazz. Costlow simply delivers independent, sincere and contemporary music to which listeners can easily relate.

A Little More About Rob

By the time he was twelve, Rob Costlow was trying his piano instructor's patience by adding his own endings to songs during lessons and recitals. "I literally despised taking lessons and especially practicing other people's music. It just wasn't for me. I had so many notes running through my head, I wanted to create my own music," admits Rob. This soon brought an end to the lessons that began at age five. Rob realized that his musical future was going to take a different path than the one set by his teachers.

Rob is a true Hoosier born and raised in Indiana. Growing up in a large family helped Rob become focused and tenacious. As the youngest of six boys, Rob got used to seizing every opportunity. In fact, it was one of Rob's brothers that introduced him to contemporary piano music. "It was so different than the music I studied in lessons," says Costlow. "It helped give me the courage to try my own hand at composition. I said to myself 'I can do this!' It was an immediate outlet to express myself and also provide a sense of calm when times were stressful."

At age eleven, Rob lost his mother to ovarian cancer. Even as a young boy, Rob was affected by his mother's constant courage in the face of such adversity. His Mom had and continues to have a huge impact on Rob's life and music.

Rob received a Bachelors and Masters degree in Kinesiology from Indiana University, Bloomington (IU). Before transferring to IU as a junior, Rob began his college career as a Piano Performance and Composition major at Ball State University. He then changed majors to Kinesiology as a sophomore, giving an ironic twist to the meaning of Rob's first album, Sophomore Jinx.

At IU, Rob was hit by a drunk driver and suffered injuries in both hands resulting in a broken left-hand and carpel tunnel syndrome in his right. Through surgery and physical therapy Rob has recovered, but still feels aching in his hands after an especially extensive piano performance.

While working on his Masters Degree at IU, Rob unofficially started his own record label based on a business class project. In 2002, Rob released his first professional solo project, Sophomore Jinx (re-released 2005), containing all original music. In 2004, Rob officially founded Tourist Records. Through Tourist Records, Rob continues to create and license music. He hopes to inspire other artists to make their own impact in the world.

Professionally, Rob has worked for influential New Media companies. It is through the Internet that Rob has connected with many people of different backgrounds and cultures. He has gained fans of all ages worldwide, confirming that people are in need of much more than just your typical "top 40" music.

Rob admits that he is a perfectionist and from time to time he'll carry on a conversation longer than it should go. Rob loves to travel, "cut a rug" when the mood is right, eat pizza and twizzlers, put ketchup on everything, and spend time with his family.

While Rob has come a long way since his childhood lessons, his love for creating original compositions is still at the heart of his contemporary piano music. "Music is what inspires me," says Costlow. "It is in my soul. I never force myself to write. I do it when it comes to me. I take things a day at a time."


artist: Robert F Trucios
description: classical piano
homepage: trucios
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/trucios.jpg
bio:
The piano, a bruised Brambach baby grand, lies at rest in a quiet corner of the still majestic grand lobby of the Cooper Arms, one of a handful of resort high-rise beach apartments and hotels to pop up on the shoreline of Long Beach in the 1920's. This cool ornate interior serves as a communal living room, echoing with activity and sheltering the building's residents and visitors from the noise of the world outside.

I descend the elevator, say my hellos and walk to the corner of the lobby, music in hand.

I sit down and play for a while.


artist: Robert Otto
description: Ambient Electronic and Neoclassical Soundscapes
homepage: robert_otto
state: NH
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/robert_otto_low.jpg
bio:
Robert Otto uses music to create atmospheric experiences. His music would best be described as Ambient Electronic Soundscapes, Neoclassical or New Age. The atmospheres that he creates through his music are sometimes cosmic and floating, sometimes energetic, sometimes dark and mysterious, but most often peaceful, relaxing and inspiring.

Robert likes to explore the melding of classical music and electronic music elements. The blend of the two varies from track to track, sometimes sounding very electronic and synthesized, and sometimes sounding like a pure classical piece. Many of his compositions are non-linear (not having a repeating verses or choruses), but they do have themes that are echoed within pieces, and sometimes across the tracks in an album.

Robert's music is intended to evoke the feeling of a mood, a time, a place or experience - whether it be flights to the far reaches of deep space and time, voyages to other worlds, trips to exotic distant lands, or explorations of the inner world of contemplative memories. He hopes that you enjoy the journey!

You can find out more about Robert on his bandcamp page.


artist: Robert Rich
description: groundbreaking ambient and dark-ambient
homepage: robert_rich
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/robert_rich.jpg
bio:
With over two dozen albums under his belt, Robert Rich has helped define the genres of ambient and dark-ambient music, yet his work remains hard to categorize. Part of his unique sound comes from using home-made acoustic and electronic instruments, as well as microtonal tunings, computer-based signal processing, chaotic systems, and feedback networks. Rich began building his own analog synthesizers in 1976 when he was 13 years old, and he later studied for a year at Stanford's Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA).

Rich released his first album, Sunyata, in 1982. Most of his subsequent recordings came out in Europe until 1989, when Rich began a string of critically acclaimed releases for Fathom/Hearts of Space, including Rainforest (1989), Gaudi (1991), Propagation (1994) and Seven Veils (1998). His two collaborations with Steve Roach, Strata (1990), and Soma (1992), both charted for several months on Billboard. Other respected collaborations include Stalker (1995 with B. Lustmord), Fissures (1997 with Alio Die) and Outpost (2002 with Ian Boddy.) Rich's contributions to multi-artist compilations have been collected on his solo albums A Troubled Resting Place (1996) and Below Zero (1998). He also records with his group, Amoeba, exploring atmospheric songcraft on their CDs Watchful (1997) and Pivot (2000). Live albums such as Calling Down the Sky (2004) and 3-CD Humidity (2000) document the unique improvised flow of his recent performances.

Rich has performed in caves, cathedrals, planetaria, art galleries and concert halls throughout Europe and North America. His all-night "Sleep Concerts," first performed in 1982, became legendary in the San Francisco area. In 1996 he revived his all-night concert format, playing Sleep Concerts for live and radio audiences across the U.S. during a three month tour. In 2001 Rich released the 7 hour DVD Somnium, a studio distillation of the Sleep Concert experience, possibly the longest continuous piece of music ever released.

Rich has designed sounds for television and film scores, including the films Pitch Black, Crazy Beautiful, Behind Enemy Lines and others. His musical score graces Yahia Mehamdi's documentary on worker's compensation, Thank You for your Patience. Rich has worked closely with electronic instrument manufacturers, and his sound design fills the preset libraries of Emu's Proteus 3 and Morpheus, Seer Systems' Reality, sampling disks Things that Go Bump in the Night, ACID Loop Library Liquid Planet, and the TimewARP2600 soft-synth by WayOutWare. Rich has written software for composers who work in just intonation, and he helped develop the MIDI microtuning specification, which was accepted as an industry standard. As mastering engineer, he has applied his ear to dozens of albums, and his studio was featured twice in Keyboard Magazine.


artist: Robert Scott King
description: amplified introspection powered by a single voice
homepage: robert_scott_king
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/robert_scott_king.jpg
bio:
Robert Scott King is an elusive artist and songwriter who resists genre-limiting boundaries. His writing style embraces the best of Brit-Rock influences, as well as the DIY ethos of American Indie Rock.

In his formative years, Robert fronted several bands, and shared the stage with other local budding artists, such as Lenny Kravitz, Hillel Slovak (original guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers), and Willie Aron (sideman for Peter Himmelman). These shows led to the release of the EP Train of Thoughts in 1988 under the guise of Mental Block Party. The record received airplay on commercial radio station KLOS in Los Angeles, and was touted as a Local Licks favorite.

Robert currently writes and performs as a solo artist and has 2 full-length commercial CD releases. He is also actively pursuing music licensing options for his 100+ recorded catalog.


artist: Robin Grey
description: gently experimental nu-folk
homepage: robin_grey
city: London
country: England
bandphoto: /artists/img/robin_grey_new.jpg
bio:
Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Robin Grey started his music career at the age of 5 with the help of a Fisher-Price cassette recorder and a love of singing Burt Bacharach songs to his grandma. His musical tastes soon branched out, thanks to mix tapes that arrived in the post after collecting tokens from overly sugared breakfast cereal packets.

He has since composed five albums of thoughtful and gently experimental folk music which have been streamed over 5m times on Jamendo, winning him fans as far away as Brazil, Korea and Russia. His music has ended up in a cult Korean gay movie, a French TV comedy series and other suitably random locations.

Robin has graced the boards of Cecil Sharpe House, Hebden Bridge Trade's Club and The Union Chapel, sharing stages with Kate Tempest, Peggy Seeger, Ed Sheeran and Sam Lee along the way.

With other hats on, Robin devised and performs a show called 'Three Acres And A Cow', teaching people about English radical history through folk songs; has been undertaking musical cycling pilgrimages under the rubric of 'Pedal Folk' and also infamously serenaded David Cameron during the 2015 general election, which won him praise from Ian Hislop and Charlie Brooker plus less flattering attention from Guido Fawkes.


artist: Robin Stine
description: jazzy, bluesy numbers that immediately sound like comfortable standards
homepage: robin_stine
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/robinstine.jpg
bio:
Seduction comes in many forms. Those who can seduce with style make it seem effortless, unintentional, irresistible. Robin Stine's music seduces with a whiff of subtle perfume and a casual graze of her hand as she walks past, leaving the listener powerless to do anything but follow. As a singer, her voice floats on the stylish edge of contemporary cool-light, but never lightweight. As a songwriter, her enchanting originals set her in the upper echelon of today's songwriters.

Born and raised in Kansas City, Robin began her musical journey as a child singing in school groups and church choirs. When she left for college she had no idea that music would take her around the world. For three of her collegiate years she performed with gospel groups, traveling across the U.S. as well as in Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong and China. She then moved to Miami in 1996 to begin her graduate studies. During this time she performed with "Mike Suman's Swing City" and her own band "Simply Stellar" at festivals, hotels and clubs throughout South Florida. In 2003 she moved to Pensacola to focus on the next phase of her musical career-writing and recording her original music.

Under the guidance of producer Mark Bingham, who's worked with everyone from Dr. John to the Blind Boys of Alabama to the Black Eyed Peas, she's assembled an enviably experienced crew including pianist Warren Bernhardt (Steps Ahead, Jack DeJohnette, Gerry Mulligan), drummer Gary Burke (Joe Jackson, Bob Dylan), trumpeter Steven Bernstein (Roswell Rudd, Medeski Martin & Wood, Don Byron), and her fellow Kansas City native, guitarist Steve Cardenas (Norah Jones, Madeleine Peyroux, Paul Motian, Mark Isham). A lifelong love of performing inspired by family and further fueled by the completion of her album, have culminated in a desire to return to the touring stage after a rebuilding period in the post-Hurricane Ivan year. Now based in Pensacola, Florida, Robin is ready to follow the release of Daydream with a festival and club scene tour in a way that will also leave the world powerless to do anything but follow.


artist: Rocket City Riot
description: high energy rock and roll
homepage: rcr
state: VA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/rcr5.jpg
bio:
Rocket City Riot was formed in North Alabama in 1998 by multi-instrumentalist John Mark King as part of the high energy rock movement lead by bands like Electric Frankenstein, The Hellacopters and the Gaza Strippers.

The following year, RCR recorded its first full-length album, We Name the Guilty Men, and appeared on the first volume of the seminal 13- volume Fistful of Rock-n-Roll compilation series. The next year Scotland's Twenty Stone/Blatt Records released RCR's fit to rave reviews in the U.K. press. Meanwhile, RCR made several compilation appearances in the USA while recording their second album, Middle Age Suicide. They followed that up with Pop Killer in 2003, on which they further perfected their hybrid of pop sensibilities with ass-shaking rock and roll.

With influences ranging from Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley and Muddy Waters to Iggy and the Stooges, the MC5 and AC/DC, Rocket City Riot bring some much needed substance to the over-commercialized punk-pop scene. With King on lead vocals, bass and guitar, Dave Seiden on lead guitar and Alan Slimak on drums, Rocket City Riot maintains an active live show calendar, proving that fans still crave rock with real character and roots.


artist: Roe
description: A journey into the deep, beyond the bounds of ambient music
homepage: roe
city: Milan
country: Italy
bandphoto: /artists/img/roe.jpg
bio:
Roe was born in Milan, Italy, and lives near that city.

He began composing music on his Mac in 2005, when he discovered Garageband and since then he has not stopped, despite performing a completely different job.

He's a pretty omnivorous listener to pretty much everything from classical to opera, from Dixieland to free jazz, from blues to pop, from progressive to rock, from folk singer to the great tradition of Italian and International music. His favorites singers are John Lennon and... Ludwig van Beethoven.

In the area of electronic-ambient he remains dazzled by Ricochet and Rubycon of Tangerine Dream, by Ambient 4: On Land of Brian Eno, and laterly by the works of Harold Budd, Robert Rich, Tetsu Inoue and Pete Namlook.

He has studied guitar from some years now but music composition takes away much of the time that he wanted to dedicate to this practising this instrument.

Roe also played drums in an ordinary bossa nova band for a couple of years. His former job of a graphic designer helps in designing the covers for his albums.


artist: Roots of Rebellion
description: melodic modern hard rock
homepage: ror
state: NJ
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/ror5.jpg
bio:
Roots of Rebellion hails from Kinnelon, New Jersey, in the heart of the Northern Jersey metro rock scene. Formed in 2001, the band's unconventional hard rock combines melodic keyboard and vocals over complex rhythms and chords, creating a unique rock sound that is equally appropriate on the dance floor, car radio and mosh pit.

Their debut album, The Looking Glass (2004), co-produced by the band and veteran sound engineer Tony Van Hoorn (recorded Phil Ramone, Ray Charles, Rick Derringer, Southside Johnny) combines a surprising collection of tracks, each significantly different from the others.

Comprised of eight songs, The Looking Glass is infectious from the first song, The Order, to the last, Messenger.

The complex musical progressions in each song are complimented by lead singer John Penola's introspective, yet ambiguous lyrics.

Swaying between kinetic choruses and somber verses, the album takes on the difficult task of pleasing both the hardest rocker and those who must find a melody and meaningful lyrics to appreciate a band's talents.

The four piece band is composed of singer/keyboardist John Penola; guitarist Tyler Bissell; drummer/vocalist Kurt Wubbenhorst and bassist Rob Struck.


artist: Rossignol
description: spare and lyrical medieval troubadour songs
homepage: rossignol
state: OH
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/rossignol.jpg
bio:
Peter Cama-Lekx, vielle:
A native of Ontario, Canada, Peter performs internationally on period violin and viola as well as medieval strings. He is a founding member of the early music ensemble Cascata and has performed with Quicksilver, Cambridge Concentus and Music for a while.

He has appeared as lead violinist with Baroque and Beyond in North Carolina and on the Allegro series in Spokane, WA. Peter recently toured Japan with Cambridge Concentus, performing Bach's St. Matthew Passion under the baton of Joshua Rifkin. Known also for his exciting interpretations of contemporary music on modern viola, he has premiered many new compositions for various small ensembles, and performed in chamber ensembles and orchestras throughout New England and the Midwest.

Peter recently completed his Performance Diploma at Boston University where he studied viola with Michelle LaCourse and Baroque violin/viola with Jane Starkman. He also holds both a Masters degree (Penn State University) and a Bachelors degree (Wilfrid Laurier University) in Viola Performance.

Robin Snyder, voice:
Robin Snyder is an early music vocalist by night and a physicist-turned-theoretical ecologist by day (and let's face it, many nights as well).

During her postdoctoral years, she sang with Bay Area Renaissance lute song ensemble Theatrum Musicum as their first vocalist.

She has always been drawn to medieval music, however, and so came to found early English medieval ensemble duo Briddes Roune, which released the album "Lenten is Come" on Magnatune. She has concentrated on medieval music ever since. Snyder studied voice with contralto Victoria Hart.

You can find out more about Robin on her own website and Peter on his website.


artist: Rougge
description: the two hundred and twenty two strings of a piano and a voice
homepage: rougge
city: Nancy
country: France
bandphoto: /artists/img/rougge.jpg
bio:
Rougge was born in 1974 in the East of France.

While listening to him sing at a very young age, his parents decide to enroll him in music classes. As a child, he studies classical guitar. As a teenager, he moves on to electric guitar and flamenco. He continuously explores and improves his voice, first on his own and later on stage with other musicians.

Composing then becomes an additional way of expressing himself. Another outlet for more personal feelings. He dedicates himself to this new form of expression aimed at deeply exploring genuine human emotions.

After a while, the desire of an unknown "out there" and for renewal, leads him to England. To Liverpool with its sharp contrasts. A mythical town for music. The Mersey River. The Pier Head. A touch of Ireland.

Refocusing. Listening to inner voices. New feelings.

The Piano. New strings. The words are looking for meanings. Wander. Fade completely and....

Rougge is born. The strings of the piano and of the voice blend from there on in as a delicate roar. An ethereal voice free of words, of sentences. A voice that targets a pure emotional state.

A unique mix of sounds ranging from classical to rock, to contemporary music. A singular and carnal expressiveness.

Towards the end of 2007, Rougge returns home and creates his first album Fragments. Recorded and mixed between France and England, Fragments is warmly welcomed by music critics in various, major European web magazines. This positive momentum leads to a contract between Rougge and the French publisher Volvox Music who hear in the 11 fragments (the 11 songs of the album), "ambitious, captivating music".

Collaborations soon follow with two painters Isabelle Szlachta and Robbin Milne. They extract a powerful creative energy from Rougge's music leading both to new artistic creations as well as an audio-visual project.

In 2009, Parisian stage director Clement Saunier hears in Rougge's music a great inspiration for directing his play "La Fellation du Diable". Rougge then adapts several "Fragments" for Saunier's production and a theatrical collaboration is established.

An encounter with his peers, Marc Vella, "the World travelling concert pianist", and his friend Marko Meles, concert pianist and graduate from the Belgrade Conservatory, slowly leads Rougge towards the stage and live performance: first in May 2009 with 10 concerts together named "Glassovir" at the "Petit Theatre dans La Ville" in Nancy and from 2010 onwards, on stage for a Solo performance. It is here that Rougge's musical colour reaches its intensity.


artist: Ruben van Rompaey
description: passionate Eastern percussion
homepage: rompaey
city: Antwerpen
country: Belgium
bandphoto: /artists/img/rompaey1.jpg
bio:
Ruben van Rompaey (1978, Bergen op Zoom, Holland) became well known for his cd trilogy "Eastern Expressions" within the international musical scenes of World music and Bellydance.

As a solo artist and workshop leader he performed at a variety of national and international Jazz and Bellydance festivals, which brought him to countries like USA and Japan.

Ruben is winner of several awards, such as the Tama Drummer's Award (1999), Erasmus Jazz Award (2001) and a special Scholarship (2001). After having obtained his master degree cum laudeat at the conservatory, Ruben taught there for several years, before finally founding his own Eastern Expressions International School of Drums & Percussion in Rotterdam, with the notorious slogan: "Be Yourself" as the school's vision.

Besides his active career as a solo artist Ruben currently has six albums released. He also is the author of three methods for darbuka, which has been translated into various languages. Recently Ruben's own signature cymbals have been released by Turkish Cymbals Istanbul.

You can watch Ruben perform the piece "Moon Dance" in this recently produced educational video on darbuka.


artist: Russ Hopkins
description: an introspective mix of acoustic guitar based songs
homepage: hopkins
state: CO
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/russ_hopkins_new.jpg
bio:
New York native Russ Hopkins' earthy sound emanates from many years in the music business as a performer, songwriter, sound designer, audio engineer and music producer.

He has opened for John Sebastian of The Lovin' Spoonful and John McEuen of The Nitty Gritty DIrt Band.

He has recorded Dave Mathews Band, Michael Hedges, Odetta, Tom Paxton, Al Stewart, Leo Kottke, Jerry Jeff Walker and David Bromberg.

"A tapestry of world music"
John Buckman - Magnatune

"This Colorado songwriter crafts an earthy, beautifully hypnotic song with a western flavor. RE: Brother's Touch"
Bryan Klausing - Acoustic Rainbow

"Hopkins has not only been known as a passionate singer-songwriter but also as the operator of KIVA Records, a studio that has pumped out a wide diversity of music - from delicate acoustic sounds and raging rock to Native American drum music and inspirational folk. Hopkins has been a reliably creative engineer and an insightful ear for countless sessions, always searching for what sound best fits the spirit of the moment."
Tim Van Schmidt - fortcollinslife-times

"Americana/folk rock sound... Earthy undertones flow throughout his pieces, creating an old Western ambiance. His poetic lyrics combine with beautiful harmonies and melodies rich with acoustic honesty, transporting listeners to a different time. His hauntingly beautiful, deeply rich voice reminds you of Johnny Cash circa "Hurt." In a world filled with bubbly pop and club remixes, it's refreshing to find honest lyrics presented in a way that makes listeners reflect on themselves."
Crystal Campbell, Lindsay Nichols and Maggie Canty-Shafer - Coloradoan

"Sweet Mystery is a collection of country-tinged folk that leaves the listener longing for the time when music was unapologetically raw and organic. "
Joshua Espinosa - Scene Magazine


artist: Russ Hopkins and Jerry Palmer
description: a tapestry of world music
homepage: hopkins_palmer
state: CO
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/hopkins_palmer.jpg
bio:
Jerry Palmer and Russ Hopkins have worked together for half their lives to create music that speaks to the soul. They strive for a musical environment where ones heart can crack open. Jerry has been a recording artist and composer for most of his adult life and has released many albums of his music. Russ has been Jerry's producer for over 20 years. Together they create a beautiful musical tapestry.

When he was 23 Jerry Palmer recorded his debut album Night Song with six time Grammy winner Greg Nelson and three time Grammy winner Al Perkins. Then while visiting northern Colorado he heard the instrumental music of guitarist Alex de Grassi. Palmer took the discovery of de Grassi's music as a new life direction. Palmer recorded his first instrumental album Children Forever with Russ Hopkins of Kiva Records in 1987. Palmer and Hopkins teamed up again for Nevada Winds, which landed him a feature spot in some surprising places- on television as well as on supermarket music loops. It also found him on stage with steel string guitar legend Michael Hedges.

Russ Hopkins has been a photographer, filmmaker, musician since his early teens. A native New Yorker, Russ settled in the west after studying psychology and cinema in Los Angeles. He founded Kiva Records in the early 80's and has since engineered hundreds of records and produced over sixty albums. He shares six national awards with Paul Taylor for Paul's album Cooee. Hopkins is a three time Best Sound Design winner with the Colorado Governor's award winning OpenStage Theatre Company. Hopkins' recordings have been licensed internationally, as have his photographs and films.


artist: Ryo Utasato
description: From wild Electronica to soothing Ambient. From Ethnic Fusion to Epic Rock, Cinematic and beyond
homepage: ryo_utasato
city: Tokyo
country: Japan
bandphoto: /artists/img/ryo_utasato.jpg
bio:
Ryo Utasato is a Japanese composer and singer/songwriter with a rich body of work that runs the gamut from electronica to ambient to world to rock and beyond.

Being raised by parents who were both musicians themselves, Ryo has had no shortage of inspiration and has been creating music from a very young age. Her range of talent and unique experimental style is immediately striking and listening to one of her pieces will undoubtedly transport you to another place. Her soundtracks have appeared in a variety of film and TV, and she's worked in such genres as sci-fi, drama, horror and action. Her work was also chosen for the theme of World Heritage series.

Ryo's incredible musical sense combined with her genuine interest in world culture has opened her mind and pushed her to experiment with different types of sounds and instruments. Her music often features a mixture of seemingly contrasting sounds which collide at different points and produce unexpectedly moving results. On top of some of the more conventional instruments which Ryo has used in her music, she has also experimented with a number of others from different parts of the world such as the duduk (Armenia), the erhu (China) and the shamisen (Japan). The expanse and tremendous scale of her music is capable of taking us from one part of the globe to another, just by closing our eyes.


artist: Sambodhi Prem
description: reflections of the moon in music
homepage: sambodhi_prem
city: Auckland
country: New Zealand
bandphoto: /artists/img/sambodhi_prem.jpg
bio:
Sambodhi Prem's music touches the essence of meditation in sound. He gives the listener an almost tangible experience of being in the presence of silent naturalness.

Born in Holland in the old city of Haarlem, just a stone's throw from Amsterdam, the inspiration of international exchange was always close by. In his early twenties, through reading one of his books, he became inspired by the enlightened mystic Osho. He became a part of the Humaniversity in the Netherlands, a breakthrough commune founded by one of Osho's disciples, Swami Anand Veeresh.

Sambodhi Prem's name means "Enlightened Love". For him it is an everyday reminder that he has been touched by one of the most beautiful, courageous and intelligent human beings that has walked the face of the Earth and a remembering to live and breath that beauty, courage and intelligence in his own life.

About his musicianship Sambodhi Prem says: "When one merges into stillness, when musical notes turn into waves of knowing and sounds are stirred and sent away on journeys through the air - to create music like that - a pureness of heart is required. I set out on a journey to face myself and to learn the scope of my own being. Beautiful music has to come from a beautiful place in yourself. At a young age I decided to discover that place." "I like to create music to disappear into, to let sounds become silence, so that the listener, alone at night in a mellow room, can have a glimpse of the divine. "

Music has been a thread running through Sambodhi Prem's life that joined parts that were fragmented and merged together polarities that appeared disparitive. "When energy starts to bubble up from nowhere, heed its call. Go with the overflow and let yourself be part of precious things, follow your bliss, but don't ignore your agony," he adds.

Together with his partner Sandipa, an accomplished painter, he has written a book about the challenges of staying well in the modern day: "The All And Everything Of Healthy Living".

   Artwork credit Sandipa - As Earth Forms: The Pearl
   
"Celebration is my religion, love is my message, silence is my truth." - Osho
   
Sambodhi Prem lives together with Ma Deva Sandipa in Mount Franklin, Victoria, Australia, where the sounds of his studio resonate with the abundance of nature...golden leaves fall on the surface of a lily pond.
   
You can find out more about Sambodhi on his website.
   


artist: Sandeep Bhandari
description: Ethnic ambiance combined with electronic moods and grooves
homepage: sandeep_bhandari
city: Ontario
country: Canada
bandphoto: /artists/img/sandeep_bhandari.jpg
bio:
"It's difficult to say what intrigues me more, creating sound or recording it."

As a multi-instrumentalist trained in guitar, piano, and percussion, Sandeep Bhandari has written and recorded his own music for three decades. As he moved in and out of rock bands through his formative years, his desire for record engineering began.

"It was an average brownstone on an average street in Hamilton (Ont. Canada), but every musician in the city knew about the amazing records that were recorded there."

After obtaining a Bachelors Degree, Sandeep took residency as a studio engineer at Grant Avenue Studio, the famed recording facility built by Bob and Daniel Lanois. He spent two years listening, learning and recording some of the best musicians in the world including Gordon Lightfoot, Ani DiFranco, Bruce Cockburn, Daniel Lanois, Sarah Harmer.

"By chance, my music came across the desk of an influential TV producer, and that's how composing for television began."

Through the mid-nineties, Sandeep wrote music for several national and international television shows including Fashion Television, FlashForward, and Departures. During this period he continued to play live music with local musicians throughout Canada.

"I was completely transfixed by British bands that put their own spin on American hip-hop and electronic music. Also, home studio technology was developing quickly and much of the innovative electronic music was coming from independent artists on small labels."

The bands coming from places like Bristol, England influenced his own music and the sounds of the Asian Underground helped shape his musical sensibilities. Creating textures from sounds manipulated through digital processing equipment, and layering those ideas with live instruments was the basis for a new approach to writing and recording. With each release, his music was sought after for TV and Film licensing.

"I had composed quite a bit of music for them, so Music Supervisor seemed like a natural progression"

By 2011, Sandeep was music supervising TV shows in Canada and continues to write and license his own tracks for a myriad of media projects.


artist: Saros
description: intelligent ambient downtempo
homepage: saros
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/saros3.jpg
bio:
Joerg Huettner founded "Saros" back in 1998 together with DJ Jan Osh as a Goa/Ambient project. After 8 months of work they already had their first live gig in front of an enthusiastic crowd in December of the same year. In 1999 first CD compilation releases followed on the German based label "Zoomia".

In 1999 Joerg went on solo with "Saros", focusing more and more on ambient and downbeat tracks. During this time the first album "reaching out to the other world" was released solely on MP3 websites--including MP3.com and peoplesound.com--garnering many of rave reviews.

In 2001 and 2002 further CD compilation releases followed on "Waldorf Records", the label of the world famous Germany synth company Waldorf, as well as on Ceiba Records, USA, in 2003.

The 2nd album "Soundscapes" was produced in 2002 and 2003. Short after that his works even brought him in touch with LA based Hollywood composers Klaus Badelt (e.g. "k-19", "time machine", "pirates of the caribean") and Hans Zimmer ("Gladiator", "The Lion King", "Dark Knight") with whom he collaborated on several projects. Especially with Hans he continued to work with until today, especially after his relocation to Santa Monica in 2007. Joerg was part of the music production team of such blockbusters as "The Ring 2", "Batman Begins", "The Simpsons", "Vantage Point", "Babylon AD" and "Thick as Thieves".

The new album "labyrinth" is the music for an art exhibition event in Germany in 2008 presenting the art of Canada based artist Richard A. Kirk and it takes "Saros" to the next level. For collectors, this album also is available as CD in a beautiful Digipak packaging with the entire artwork from Richard A. Kirk and a novel excerpt of Tim Mizelle based on Richard's drawings.


artist: Sasha Merkulov
description: Ethnic New Age, Groove, Meditation, Sitar, Ambient
homepage: sasha_merkulov
city: Karmiel
country: Israel
bandphoto: /artists/img/sasha_merkulov.jpg
bio:
Sasha Merkulov was a well known producer and musician in Latvia during the 1990s. He worked as a composer, arranger and sound engineer in his own studio. One day he decided to leave his work and sell his studio. When asked, "Why did you do this?", he answered: "I can no longer write about music whilst having to think about money. It's not about music."

Sasha travelled into the Holy Land. He learned a few spirit practices and after 13 years of silence he started to write his own style of music with live sitar, didgeridoo (played by Genady Alpatov on this album), hand drums and electronic sounds in the background. Now he is relishing life as an independent musician.

You can follow more of Sasha's music on Soundcloud.


artist: Satori
description: healing, meditative ambient new age
homepage: satori
city: Kiev
country: Ukraine
bandphoto: /artists/img/satori.jpg
bio:
Anjey Satori was born on April 6, 1969, in the Ukraine. Anjey was interested in mysticism and esoteric teachings of the East from his early years.

He worked as an organizer of special courses and seminars at the Institute of Nontraditional Medicine and has studied bioenergetics, dowsing and healing. He successfully completed a course of White Magic by Raokriom and a practical seminar of holodynamics by Vernon Woolf. Anjey also studied Osho and the method of Tao master Mantak Chia. Anjey is a pupil of Maha Yogi Pilot Baba. Practicing Yoga, Qigong and Tao-alchemy.

From 1992 to 1993 Anjey worked as a correspondent of the "Ekstrasens" newspaper. From 1994 to 1997 he was a head of School of Correspondence Tuition of Psychic at the Kiev Institute of Alternative Medicine. Anjey developed a method for teaching of psychics. More than 2000 people successfully completedthe school. Many of Anjey's students show very good results in clairvoyance and extrasensory perception skills and healing practice.

From 1998 to 1999 Anjey was organizing trainings in the Academy of Popular Healing.

Currently Anjey is a producer and publisher of the esoteric music.

The pseudonym "satori" (insight) Anjey thought of while practicing meditation and yoga. Once the "expansion of conscious" happened and there was an experience of "satori" described in classical Zen-Buddhist texts. The feeling of inner light and bliss lasted for several days. It was the meeting with his innermost Self.

Anjey Satori's music is intended for meditation, healing and anyone travelling an inner journey. Each composition creates a harmonious balance of music and spirit.

With the series of meditation, natural voices, sounds of Tibetan singing bowls you get maximum benefit out of the music. With this album-series you can relax thoroughly and achieve that vital state of physical and phychological stability.


artist: SCD
description: Baroque trio
homepage: scd
state: CA
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/scd_1.jpg
bio:
The musicians are:
Michael Sand: violin
Phebe Craig: harpsichord
John Dornenburg, viola da gamba.

Praised by Isaac Stern as making "a most convincing argument for the Baroque violin", MICHAEL SAND has become one of the leading Baroque violinists in America. A founding member and first musical director of the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra of San Francisco, Mr. Sand is also the director of Arcangeli Baroque Strings, a string ensemble dedicated to the concerto grosso repertoire. In great demand as a guest musical director and lecturer, he has led performances of numerous chamber orchestras throughout this country and abroad, including Israel, Canada, and Australia. He plays with the chamber ensembles Musical Assembly, is director of the New York State Baroque and appears with many local Bay Area early music groups. Mr. Sand has recorded for Meridian, Harmonia Mundi (France and the United States), Arts and Music, KATastroPHE, Wildboar, and Titanic. He teaches at the University of California at Davis and at the SFEMS Baroque Music Workshop.

Originally from Colorado, Phebe Craig spent her student years in Berlin, Brussels and San Francisco. She has earned a reputation as a versatile chamber musician and recitalist and has performed and recorded with many early music ensembles. As a specialist in basso continuo realization she has accompanied many prominent early music soloists, and has produced a series of play-along CDs for Baroque music. She has appeared at the Carmel Bach Festival, the Regensburg Tage Alter Music, and the Berkeley Early Music Festival. In addition to performing with many local ensembles, Craig also belongs to New York State Baroque. She teaches at the University of California at Davis and is the Director of the San Francisco Early Music Society's Baroque Music and Dance Workshop.

John Dornenburg teaches viola da gamba on the faculty at Stanford University and lectures at California State University at Sacramento. In the San Francisco Bay Area he can be heard with Music's Re-creation, Sex Chordae Consort of Viols, Arcangeli Baroque Strings, Magnificat, and the American Bach Soloists


artist: Scott Hallgren
description: jazz, tango & other adventures
homepage: scott_hallgren
state: TN
country: USA
bandphoto: /artists/img/scott_hallgren.jpg
bio:
A jazz pianist and composer, Scott Hallgren became interested in the music of tango when challenged by an Argentinian friend, Diana Holland, to write a piece in the classic style. The result became the 1st of 4 movements of the 'Portena Suite', a jazz-tinged take on classic & modern tango musics that he dedicated to Diana.

The similarities between jazz and tango are deeper than most listeners realize, so the idea of combining the two idioms again on a future project has a certain appeal.

Scott also writes music that others have featured on their albums... the joyous 'Snowfall' is featured on new age vocalist Seay's "A Winter Blessing", and the self-descriptive 'Film Noir' was the crowning track on trumpeter Leif Shires' "Rapture". As well, Scott has enjoyed musically daring collaborations with Rod McGaha and Mitch Reilly on the freely improvised, spontaneously composed pieces, "Spirits of the Dead" and "Sin Lux", respectively.

Scott is a Silver Telly & CINE award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist whose early interest in music led him to study jazz piano and arranging at the University of Miami (Florida). He later relocated to Nashville to pursue his dream of working as a recording and touring musician. During the next decade, Scott served as Donna Summer's musical director and pianist, after a stint in Steve Wariner's band. He also toured with Margaret Becker, The Wilkinsons, and Fernando Ortega, and supported other artists such as: Sir Elton John, Aaron Neville, Andrae Crouch, Gloria Estefan, Ricky Skaggs, Eddy Arnold, David Foster, Larry Gatlin, and Marc Antony.

After touring, Scott decided to focus on his composing and arranging skills. He has since scored or provided music for movies that have been seen worldwide. Of note, "Sith'D," a short Star Wars spoof, won Best Comedy at Comic-Con (2006), and "Gracie: diary of a coma patient" won festival awards for director Jeff Wedding, and received much critical acclaim for Scott's musical score. Scott's varied talents as an arranger, composer and performer have been featured on albums by Donna Summer, This Is My America (Various Artists), Monte Montgomery, Seay, Leif Shires, the live show 'Cirque Shanghai', the Documentary Channel, and on the movie soundtracks of Smart People and Strictly Tango.

You can find out more about Scott on his website and IMDB entry.


