Singer/Songwriter Mandy Bon Releases "Traffic Jams" EP

Singer/Songwriter Mandy Bon has released 'Traffic Jams,' an EP made up of four original songs sharing the artist's insights into the ups and downs of life. Each song on the EP, 'Super Glue,' 'LA Traffic', 'Only A Fake' and 'Saying Goodbye', have corresponding music videos that can be seen here. The objective of the EP is to gain the artist representation by a major or independent record label.

Unsure
Bon, a music major who plays piano, guitar and ukulele, decided to compose original music that reflected being a young twenty-something musician wondering aloud about her life path. "I get lots of ideas driving in L.A. traffic," says Bon. "A lot of songs come to mind." 'LA Traffic' highlights Bon being scared of commitment but willing to take the risk when she first started dating her future husband. "I was feeling very unsure about the direction of my life, was very nervous, I think people can relate," says Bon. "Kiss me in LA Traffic Take it slow we'll keep it classic Don't know where we're going But I'm not running away from You... You, me, and LA."

Getting Stuck
Another song on the EP titled 'Only A Fake' chronicles the universal frustration of getting stuck, with the anger being vented on oneself. "I wrote this when feeling very discouraged," says Bon. "In the end, the song is about pulling yourself out of that hole and keep stepping forward. Things will get better, even if at first it doesn't feel that way. We all have moments where we compare past with present." "Guess I'm only a fake Nice and neat for a day Pack away my mistakes Guess I'm only a Fake."

Uke Ballad
'Super Glue' is a ukulele-propelled ballad of love written to Bon's husband. The corresponding music video has the artist playing uke while flipping boards highlighting both her art and lyrics. "And I like you, even when I bug you, and actually I love you, alot!"

Collaboration
Bon hooked up with violinist Maile Hutchinson to breathe life into 'Saying Goodbye', "an honest song poured out of me when I felt absolutely devastated." "I'm a mess Watch me cry Driving home Dripping Sky." "Ok, so basically a very cheery song," adds Bon with a laugh. For the EP, Bon composed, recorded and mixed each track. Bon also helmed most of the music video production herself.

About Mandy Bon
Mandy is a Los Angeles based singer/songwriter/composer. For more information, contact her at mandy@bonproductions.com

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=201651

Jared Porter Wins Country Summer Fender Contender Challenge

SANTA ROSA, Calif. -- Jared Porter, a California born artist who moved to Australia at age 15, is the winner of the Fender Contender Challenge.

Voted the fans' favorite, he will be first to perform at Country Summer, Northern California's biggest country music festival June 5-7 at Sonoma County Event Center. He also wins the $5,000 grand prize.

More than 400,000 votes were cast to determine the Fender Contender Challenge four finalists and ultimate grand prize winner.

Porter was surprised to hear he is the winner on Froggy 92.9 this morning. "Wow man. This is great news. This is so cool!” he said on the Rob and Joss Morning Show, calling in from Queensland Australia.

Porter was the 35th Australian Star Maker winner in 2014. Since winning that award, he has performed at the CMA World GlobaLive Concert in Nashville, toured with Australia's biggest names in country and recorded "East to West," his debut album.

He recently signed an international co-publishing agreement as a songwriter with Dog Whistle Music Australia and Dan Hodge Music Nashville. "Deep End," the first single, climbed the official radio airplay charts to Number 3. "Pieces," the second single, a duet with Kaylee Bell, went one further reaching Number 2.

Currently on tour in Australia, Porter looks forward to venturing back to the Unites States to make it big on the Country Summer stage.

In addition to Porter, Country Summer presented by Lithia RAM of Santa Rosa, features 13 entertainers. Country Summer 2015 headliners include Jake Owen on June 5, The Band Perry on June 6 and Brantley Gilbert on June 7.

The June 5 lineup also includes Gary Allan, Chris Young and Parmalee; June 6 also includes Lee Brice, Jerrod Niemann, Frankie Ballard and The Swon Brothers; and June 7 also includes Trace Adkins, Easton Corbin and Cassadee Pope.

Daily tickets start from $69 for general admission, $99 for reserved seats. A limited number of discount three-day packages are available. To purchase tickets, visit www.countrysummer.com or call 800.514.3849 to order by phone.

Event sponsors include Lithia RAM of Santa Rosa, Friedman's Home Improvement, Bud Light, Montgomery Village, Les Schwab Tire Centers of Sonoma and Mendocino Counties, Leese-Fitch Wines, Jack Daniel's, River Rock Casino, Fender, American AgCredit, Cattlemens, Xfinity, Creams, Papé Material Handling, U.S. Marines, Harris Ranch, the City of Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa Convention & Visitors Bureau and Froggy 92.9.

See Jared Porter's Fender Contender Challenge winning video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41WnimHQQbg.
Visit Jared Porter’s website at http://www.jaredportermusic.com/.

About Fender
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors, whose portfolio of brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch®, Jackson®, EVH® and Charvel®, among others. For more information, visit www.fender.com.

http://countrysummer.com/

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=183291

New Acoustic Seed Records Folk Album For Review: Dan O'Connor - The Other Shore

Acoustic Seed Records releases new acoustic folk album by Dan O'Connor "The Other Shore". The CD includes 10 songs of inspiring and intelligent original material with layered solo acoustic guitar and vocals. The sound is similar to Jack Johnson, Damien Rice and Ryan Adams. Tracks are available to buy and stream: Search "Dan O'Connor The Other Shore" on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Google Play, Xbox, Rdio and other major music services.

Artist: Dan O'Connor
Album/Single: The Other Shore
Description: Inspiring and intelligent acoustic folk rock songs similar to Jack Johnson, Damien Rice and Ryan Adams
Format: Original material. Layered solo acoustic guitar and vocals
Genre: Singer-Songwriter, Folk, Rock
Label: Acoustic Seed Records
Catalog Number: ACS-109691
UPC Code: 889211324989
Released on: 1/30/2015

All songs written, performed and recorded by Dan O'Connor (BMI). Mastered by Nathan Reiner

Single: http://www.acousticseed.com/digital-promo/mp3s/dan-oconnor-the-other-shore.mp3
Complete album download: http://acousticseed.com/digital-promo/DanOConnor-TheOtherShore-FullAlbum.zip
One Sheet: http://www.acousticseed.com/digital-promo/dan-oconnor-the-other-shore.pdf
Artwork: http://www.acousticseed.com/digital-promo/dan-oconnor-the-other-shore.jpg

About Dan O'Connor
Dan O'Connor (born October 9, 1969) is an acoustic folk rock singer-songwriter from New York, NY. O'Connor began playing guitar and writing songs at the age of 13. He went on to study music at the Hartford Conservatory and The Hartt School where he graduated with a degree in music business and jazz guitar. Dan's music is on hundreds of soundtracks such as the TV series "The Reviewers", the documentary "Mumbai Nights" and the film "Waiting for Ruby". His many composing clients include Disney, Harvard University and IBM. The singer-songwriter also studied acting at H.B. Studios in New York City and appears in indie films such as "Curious Design", "Subject to Retaliation", "Ovelia and Gregoria" and "Zedic & the Crimson Born".

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=181825

Award Winning Southern Rocker Launches Indiegogo Campaign For "Outlaw In Love", The New Album By Glitter Rose

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180769

Known as the Outlaw Southern Rocker, 29 year old singer, songwriter, producer and 8-time award winner Glitter Rose launched her 30 day Indiegogo campaign today in support of her 3rd full length studio album "Outlaw In Love". GR is a 17 year veteran in the music industry, and has worked as an independent artist her entire career. She is a perfect blend of rock, country, pop and alternative.

Her first 2 albums, "Southern Comfort" and "Dead or Alive", show an assertive side of the female guitarist, with songs that focus on fun story-telling and good times. "Outlaw In Love" takes a different approach, showing a softer, more vulnerable side of GR and addresses the personal experiences she's been through since moving to Los Angeles, CA in late 2011. The album will also be produced by Glitter Rose.

GR's reason for the campaign is to engage with her fans on a more personal level. People who contribute are rewarded with some great gifts, but more importantly, they become of part of the making of the album.

"I wanted to let my fans in to my world, let them see how the process works for making an album. Since this is such an intimate album for me on an artistic level and as a songwriter, I wanted it to be intimate on the development level as well, bringing my friends and fans in close, so they can be a part of the journey with me." –Glitter Rose

Album production will start shortly after the campaign ends. Pre-production has already started for the album and some teasers of the songs can be heard on GR's campaign video and new album teaser video on her YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/glitterrosemusic).

GR's Indiegogo campaign will end Friday, February 20th, 2015 at 11:59pm PST. In celebration of the campaign's final day, Glitter Rose and The Band will be performing at The Mint in Los Angeles, CA. For tickets to the February 20th show and for information how to make dinner reservations, please visit www.themintla.com. To visit the Indiegogo campaign, go to http://igg.me/at/outlawinlove or GR's website, www.GlitterRose.com.

ABOUT GLITTER ROSE: Starting at the age of 13 in 1998, GR has dedicated her life to her craft and her fans. Never swaying in her musical truths, Glitter has walked away from several offers to be something she's not. Pushing strong as an independent artist, she has performed over 3,000 shows, has 12 major endorsements including companies like Gibson Acoustic Guitars, Orange Amps, and Telefunken Elektroakustik to name a few, and has worked on projects with musicians like Matt Sorum, Chris Chaney, Stu Hamm, SeHwang Kim, Billy Morrison, and more.

In 2012, GR moved from Ft. Worth, TX to Los Angeles, CA, with a residency at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Blvd for her signature show titled Southern Rock Brunch. 2013 brought some of her many accolades, like Best Rock Artist and Album of the Year for Dead or Alive from the Artists In Music Awards, Best Music Video for "Buda Negra" in the Bare Bones International Film Festival and Country Artist of the Year in the Los Angeles Music Awards. GR also wrote the title track for the feature film "American Girl", as well as made a cameo appearance, and is an associate producer on the film, which won Best Producer of a Feature Film in the 2014 LA Femme International Film Festival. In 2014, GR launched her career as a producer, teaming up with engineer and mixer Francisco Rodriguez. She also co-wrote and performed on a track with Stu Hamm and SeHwang Kim for the soundtrack of the Korean box office smash The Technicians, titled "Two Lovers".

Palangi Meets Daughtry

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180218

NY Rock recording artist Frank Palangi gets ready this spring to work with Guitarist/Producer Brian Craddock from the Grammy award winning rock band Daughtry.

After meeting the band at a local acoustic show meet and greet, Frank made contact with Brian and soon after started developing plans to produce a single. An instant grit and tone surrounds Frank's deep voice molding him recognizable. At the core, he is a singer/songwriter pouring his heart and soul into lyrics based around life experiences. This single will grow his talent, sound and personality to another level.

-"Frank’s natural talent and certifies that he can write songs that compete with the big boys of rock." Jamsphere Magazine.

This new rock single will be produced, recorded and mixed by Brian at the Cat Room in Charlottesville, VA. Mastering will be done by Grammy winner Brad Blackwood at Euphonic Masters, who's worked on countess rock legend albums. Frank has traveled mostly to Nashville, TN in the past where he got his start working with industry players. Fate stepped in catching the ears of Grammy nominated band “Day Of Fire” while attending a local club performance in 2010 in Clifton Park, NY. Few days later, their producer Rogers Masson made contact with Frank and soon began production on the debut “Frank Palangi EP” 2011. Producer Rob Coates and members from the christian band "Pillar" were involved on his 2nd "I Am Ready EP" release in 2013 which received an L.A Music Award Nomination for "Best Rock Single". It soon after led to Frank self producing two singles in 2014 "Falling Too, Hope".

Since then Frank has been on the raise as an emerging artist making waves on this own working toward his dreams. Sharing the stages across the North East U.S with national acts from 3 Doors Down, Aaron Lewis (Staind), Buckcherry, FUEL, TRAPT, Powerman 5000, Candlelight Red, Young Guns, HURT, HEDPE, Jess Malin (Former D-Generation singer) (to name some). Gaining press with GuitarWorld, Revolver, Music Now, Young Celebrity, The Examiner, and more.

More info as the single is developed coming soon. "This experience is going to be amazing! I can't wait to travel and lay down tracks with one of my influences. Ever since Daughtry's first record, I'm been a big fan! I'm actually in the special thanks on the Baptized record for ordering the fan pack ahah. got to love it! but this single will please my core fans but also jump into a more developed direction. " - Palangi

Help support and contribute to the projects funding at INDIEGOGO: www.indiegogo.com/projects/daughtry-guitarist-produces-frank-palangi-single/x/439749

Follow Palangi at:
www.twitter.com/frankpalangi - www.facebook.com/frankpalangisoloartist - www.youtube.com/palangistudios

Booking: frankpalangistreetteam@yahoo.com

Find his music here: http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/FrankPalangi

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/frank-palangi/id271169171

http://www.amazon.com/Frank-Palangi/e/B003C14DOI/

https://play.spotify.com/artist/6Ubner1Clwb3h5MSH7FYwb

Korg USA To Distribute Dean Markley Products

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180105

Korg USA to Distribute Dean Markley Products

Korg USA announces they will be the exclusive U.S. distributor of Dean Markley’s exceptional line of guitar strings, pickups, picks and polishing accessories. Dean Markey joins Korg’s family of elite brands and this partnership is in line with Korg’s strategic plan to provide dealers with a full spectrum of quality products at various price points. The full line of Dean Markley products slated for distribution will be on display at the 2015 NAMM trade show (Booth #6440 Hall A).

“We are proud to have the opportunity to represent Dean Markley. It has a great heritage and we are looking forward to helping them reenergize the brand,” stated Korg USA President Joe Castronovo.
“Having a premier company like Korg USA manage the sales and distribution of Dean Markley products is the best way for us to ensure our dealers are taken care of. Korg USA will improve our product availability and delivery time at the industry’s most competitive prices,” states Lori McCallian, CEO of Dean Markley USA.
Korg USA will begin offering the Dean Markley products in the U.S. starting January 1, 2015.

Ogre Guitar Pedals Featured at West Coast Customs HQ

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179892

Ogre Pedals Featured in the Sam Ash Studios at new West Coast Customs Headquarters located in Burbank, California.

OGRE makes the craziest, innovative and artistic product designs combined with functionality and sonic tones desired by all musicians. The Ogre Pedals found the prefect home in the cutting edge facilities at West Coast Customs.

https://www.facebook.com/OgrePedalsU.S.A

Sam Ash Studios located in the NEW WCC Headquarters is latest addition to the legendary music stores ongoing legacy to provide the latest and greatest selection of music instruments, recording gear, microphones , etc

http://samashmusic.com/store-locations/

SHMNS announces breakup // Jonas Makai Release Secret Shores Remix

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179613

SHMNS announced their breakup on November 11, 2014. They formed in 2012 and released their debut EP 'Somewhere Between Here and There' on May 14, 2013 via Justin's record label, Think Thought Records. The four pieced announced they had actually broken up back in June but haven't made an official announcement until November 11. The front man Justin Romanos was quoted saying "We are all still very good friends but after me (justin) and Isaac graduated college it was hard to keep things together." He also added that he has begun working on a solo album, but didn't go into any detail.

The announcement was made in part with a link to the soundcloud of Jonas Makai who remixed SHMNS' debut single 'Secret Shores'. The song can be streamed here - https://soundcloud.com/jonasmakai/secret-shores-jonasmakai-remix

Meltdown By Code Indigo Is A Contemporary Instrumental Rock And Electronica Music Album Taking A Musical Swipe At The Global Economic Crisis

Code Indigo is regarded as one of Europes premiere electronic music bands and with MELTdown, they've delivered an apt follow up to their 2007 release Chill that takes a lyrical swipe at the global economic meltdown.



The band continues its tradition of producing imaginative and thematic keyboard/guitar based electronica and chill-out music.



While comparisons have been made with instrumental Pink Floyd and Art of Noise, the Code Indigo sound and style remains totally original, unique and above all, contemporary.



MELTdown is an epic, concept style musical journey. There are 16 beautifully conceived and highly evocative interlinked tracks that cleverly pay homage to all previous Code Indigo albums while remaining inventive and original.



It is moody and topical electronica featuring some of the most atmospheric and thought provoking chill out style instrumental music youre likely to hear anywhere.



Helmed by veteran UK synth maestro David Wright, co founder and sole survivor from the original 1994 line-up, and producer Dave Massey, the new look Code Indigo is completed by Neil Fellowes (aka Geigertek) on keyboards, and guitarists Nigel Turner-Heffer and Dave Bareford.



Code Indigo will premiere MELTdown at the e-day festival in Oirschot, Holland on 6th April 2013.


http://www.admusiconline.com/main/CodeIndigo-Index.php

Dean Brown Addresses Unfinished Business On New Recording, All-Star Cast Featured On Guitarist’s Fourth CD As A Leader

On Unfinished Business, veteran guitarist Dean Brown, whose scintillating six-string work can be heard on over 200 recordings, steps out with his fourth dynamic outing as a leader. Joining him on this eclectic offering, which ranges from hard-hitting funk to lovely ballads, soothing samba flavored grooves, Latin-tinged jams, greasy organ-fueled blues and cool jazz, are longstanding colleagues Marvin “Smitty” Smith on drums and Gerry Etkins on keyboards. Their intuitive sense of simpatico blends nicely on this highly interactive session with bassists Hadrien Feraud, Jimmy Earl, Schuyler Deale and Rene Camacho, Hammond B-3 organist Bobby Sparks, percussionist Joey DeLeon, trumpeter Lee Thornburg, vibraphonist Bernard Maseli and tenor saxophonists Doug Webb and Kirk Whalum. Santana drummer Dennis Chambers, who played on Brown’s powerhouse trio recording from 2009, appears on one track.

Brown stretches with heroic abandon on this collection of old and new tunes from his catalog, showing the remarkable versatility, ingenuity and go-for-it intensity that has marked his 30-year career as a guitarist-composer-arranger and educator. An in-demand figure on the global fusion and contemporary jazz scene, Brown has toured and recorded with such luminaries as Marcus Miller, The Brecker Brothers, Billy Cobham, David Sanborn, Bob James, George Duke, Roberta Flack, Lenny White, Joe Zawinul and Steve Smith’s Vital Information, but takes the greatest pleasure in his own personal projects. The aptly-titled Unfinished Business, which includes some previously unrecorded tunes originally written by the guitarist during the mid ‘80s, follows his acclaimed solo outings Here (2001), Groove Warrior (2004) and DBIII: Live at the Cotton Club Tokyo (2009), the latter a stripped-down power trio outing with bassist Will Lee and drummer Dennis Chambers.

“The title of this album is multi-faceted for me,” says Brown. “There’s the idea of being a musician in general is kind of a work in progress and tends to involve ‘unfinished business’ in terms of always paying dues, always learning and hopefully always growing as an artist. There is also the idea that there are tunes laying around that don’t make the CDs, for whatever reason. I’ve written way more music than I have records for, so there’s always more tunes. Some of these tunes on Unfinished Business are ones that didn’t make it on previous albums, so I decided to record them now. I’ve been playing them live and people have been telling me, ‘Man, you should put that tune on a record.’ So I finally got around to doing it here.”

Brown is particularly pleased with the nature of the recording during these Unfinished Business sessions. “All these tunes were recorded live in the studio,” he says, “so there’s a lot of interaction and not a lot of overdubs. I’m trying to protect that kind of stuff. I just like the integrity of the idea that all the vertical stuff happens at once. I love that live feeling.” That kind of immediacy is felt on all nine tracks from Unfinished Business, which stands as Brown’s most ambitious release to date.

by Bill Milkowski

www.deanbrown.com

Available @
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/unfinished-business/id555173956?ls=1

http://www.amazon.com/Unfinished-Business/dp/B0091P6PFY

http://www.abstractlogix.com/xcart/product.php?productid=25631

http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/deanbrown

http://www.audiophileimports.com/shop/product.php?productid=22538

Guitarist, Adrian Galysh, has enlisted Styx stickman, Todd Sucherman, to contribute drums and percussion to his new record, “Tone Poet”. Todd Sucherman brings to the record both world-class drumming and vast experience. Experience which includes session credits for over 1000 radio and TV spots, as well as touring and recording with legendary artists such as Brian Wilson, Spinal Tap, and of course, Styx.

Galysh, described as “A virtuoso of modern electric and acoustic guitar techniques” by 20th Century Guitar magazine, has been dazzling California audiences for over a decade, whether he’s backed by his band or as sideman for ex-Scorpions guitar legend, Uli Jon Roth.

“Tone Poet” is Galysh’s fourth solo album, but will be the first to include both instrumentals as well as a number of vocal tracks, ably sung by Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Royal Hunt).

With “Tone Poet”, Galysh’s tasteful guitar work and compositional style are still front and center, but will now have one of the industry’s most respected drummers laying down the grooves. So respected that 2012 saw Todd Sucherman win multiple categories in DRUM! Magazine’s reader’s poll, including  #1 DVD (Methods and Mechanics II), #1 Clinician, #2 Rock Drummer, #2 Book (Methods and Mechanics Transcription Book).

In addition, Modern Drummer’s 2012 reader’s poll clocked him in at #2 DVD (Methods and Mechanics II), #3 Prog Drummer, ranking next to Neil Peart and Mike Mangini!

An exciting year for sure, and a great follow up to 2009 which saw Todd Sucherman on the cover of Modern Drummer, and winning the reader's poll for #1 Rock Drummer, #1 Educational DVD with "Methods and Mechanics" as well as #1 Clinician in DRUM! Magazine - all while touring the world with the multi-platinum Styx and performing drum clinics and recording sessions from coast to coast.

According to Adrian, “I’ve known Todd for about 10 years. We were neighbors in Los Angeles before he moved to Texas. We’ve discussed working together for a long time, but due to his busy tour schedule and the distance (I still live in LA), we weren’t able to do it till now. Todd is a really tasteful drummer, very musical, with a ton of chops - totally in league with the likes of Colaiuta, Smith, and Bozzio.”

Galysh continues, “Tone Poet is my most mature album. I’ve written a very melodic, musical, collection of tunes, that includes my progressive hard rock influences, classical and world-music influences. Todd’s playing is right in sync with where I am at, musically.”

For more information, please visit www.AdrianGalysh.com

Email: agalysh@aol.com

Mr. Big Guitarist Paul Gilbert Debuts "Next Generation" Interactive, Online Rock Guitar School

Online Guitar School Allows Students of All Ages and Ability Levels to Watch, Question, Respond, and Learn With Legendary Mr. Big/Racer X/G3Guitarist

ArtistWorks, the first collaborative global learning community comprised of master artists and ambitious amateurs, announces the May 23rd launch of the online, interactive Rock Guitar School with Paul Gilbert. Most noted as a member acclaimed Heavy Metal band Racer X, platinum-selling Hard Rock band Mr. Big and a recent member of the G3 guitar super tour, “guitar deity” Paul Gilbert’s distinctive playing has influenced and inspired an entire generation of guitar players across the globe. Gilbert’s new Rock Guitar School will feature a complete course of beginner-to-advanced guitar lessons – ranging from classic riffs and guitar licks to Paul’s signature blazing arpeggios and string skipping.

World-renowned guitarist Paul Gilbert, is one of Guitar World‘s “50 Fastest Guitarists of All Time and one of Guitar One Magazine‘s “Top 10 Fastest Shredders of All Time.”

“I know there are people out there who are hungry to learn the guitar, or just want to improve, or get back to playing,” says Gilbert. “But there are so many things that can keep you from it – lack of time, money or even access to great teachers – my Rock Guitar School really eliminates all of those barriers and lets me have a real conversation with people who are passionate about playing guitar.”

The Rock Guitar School with Paul Gilbert utilizes ArtistWorks’ patent-pending, breakout video technology to create a direct, personalized educational experience. Subscribing students view Gilbert’s lessons and submit video questions/performances directly to Gilbert via webcam or smart phone for critique and guidance. Gilbert then reviews and responds personally to each student with a personalized video response. This Video Exchange Learning™ Platform is available in the Rock Guitar School for all subscribing students to view and subsequently learn from Gilbert - and from watching each other – creating a “virtual classroom” with an ever-evolving curriculum.

ArtistWorks students study in a guided, self-paced environment that allows them to drive the learning process according to their schedule and access instructor guidance and feedback at their own pace. Multiple camera angles allow students to see lessons from alternate viewpoints so they may analyze techniques from different vantage points. In addition, students can slow lessons down, and loop lessons to allow them to break lessons down and focus on every detail.

The Rock Guitar School with Paul Gilbert www.paulgilbertguitar.com is open to guitar players at all levels of proficiency. Subscription fees are reasonably priced at $90.00 for 3 months, $150.00 for 6 months and $240.00 for a 12-month subscription.

Founded in 2008 by former AOL executive David Butler, ArtistWorks, Inc is a Napa California-based technology and music education company that has created a proprietary, patent pending, online Video ExchangeTM interactive education platform which allows virtuoso musicians to “teach the world” by presenting their full method, technique or curriculum in HD video to subscribing students. Utilizing simple web cams, iPhones, iPads and more, students are able to submit videos through the site to the ArtistWorks’ instructors for individualized feedback and guidance – creating a two-way, individualized educational experience. ArtistWorks currently offers schools from such world-class, virtuoso artists as: guitarist Andreas Oberg; harmonica artist, Howard Levy; guitarist Martin Taylor; DJ Qbert; pianist Christie Peery; drummer Thomas Lang, drummer, Billy Cobham, percussionist Luis Conte as well as the ArtistWorks Academy of Bluegrass with banjo player, Tony Trischka, double bassist Missy Raines, flat pick guitar player Bryan Sutton; dobro player Andy Hall; mandolin player Mike Marshall and fiddle player Darol Anger.

Go to www.artistworks.com/paul-gilbert now to be one of the first to be admitted to The Rock Guitar School with Paul Gilbert.

# # #

Media contact: Elizabeth Lang, MUSO Entertainment, 323.243.4959 – press@artistworks.com

Critically Acclaimed Acoustic/ World Guitarist Magic Brook Progressing On New Album

Having had 2 songs on the charts in the New Age/ Ambient / World Radio category and an album on the same charts for over 70 weeks, San Francisco based guitarist Magic Brook is currently tracking his next album with producer Winter (Brian Gore, Shay Black, Kymberly Jackson). The album is currently being tracked at B-Room Studios and mixed at EMB Studios in Oakland CA.

Magic Brook's professional equipped B-Room Studios recently went through an upgrade to increase the fidelity for the new album.
"B-room Studios meets a higher standard of acoustic excellence" states producer Winter. "Scratch recordings have been made for almost all the compositions in order to refine the work. To me it further shows off Brook's innovative technique while still retaining his great melodic sense and relying on his deep compositional skills."

"I have been very happy with the current progress of the tracking of the album up to this point" states Magic Brook. "The progression has been made easier by the new equipment we implemented to further what I am looking for in this next album"

Winter and Magic Brook share unique working relationship in that they know and have mutual respect for each others talents and how best to implement them. "As Brook is tracking we will periodically review his progress until he comes to my studio for mixing" explains Winter. "I advise Brook on mic and pre-amp choices and mic placement while Brook tracks to these specifications."

Magic Brook is well known for his alternative/ experimental finger-style acoustic guitar techniques such as the use of percussive slaps, tap guitar, split hands, and also includes techniques not usually associated with finger-style as Flamenco Rasgueados enlivening the 7 musical journeys in the collection. Formerly the guitarist for both Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, Magic Brook's critically acclaimed album "The Source: Two Hands One Guitar" (with Winter on board as the mixing engineer) charted at number 14 and remained in the top 60 category for over 30 consecutive weeks and over 78 weeks overall on the New Age/Ambient/World Radio Charts. The song "12 Long Years" (co-written with Bernie Gilbert) hit #2 on the Broadjam top ten in the Chicago Blues category, while iSound placed Brook's recordings into it's blues radio rotation.

The album to be titled later on is being planned for an early 2013 release.

For more information please go to www.magicbrook.com

maelstrompr@gmail.com

GoGo Pedal Tuner Featured In Music Connection

The highly acclaimed GoGo Pedal Tuner by GoGo Tuners is being featured in the latest Music Connection "NEW TOYS" section GoGo Tuners! The ultimate solution for your tuning needs. Using classic precise pitch, unmatched flexibility, and a multitude of functions. www.gogotuners.net (800) 464-6817

Independent US Label Creates History In Argentina

Boosweet Records the independently owned and operated label based in California since 1999, recently created history in the country of Argentina with its “Guitar Power” guitar competition. The “Guitar Power” program is the brainchild of award winning guitarist/producer/actor and label CEO Vernon Neilly, and Marcelo Roascio who is a partner with Laura Goldar in Todo Guitarra Y Bajo Magazine, the major guitar/bass publication in the Argentine market. Vernon has traveled the world not only as a solo artist, but in the past has worked with legendary artists in the entertainment business. “Guitar Power” was held in the city of Buenos Aires and was sponsored by Boosweet Records, Todo Guitarra Y Bajo Magazine, Seymour Duncan, Xotic Effects, Morley Pedals, Giannini Strings, Tecniforte Cables, Antitodo Guitar Straps, and Guitar Global LLC. 10 finalists were selected to perform live before judges at the historic Bauen Theater in Buenos Aires from multitudes of entries that were received from all over Argentina. The winner Chowy Fernandes received an all expenses paid recording contract with Boosweet Records, as well as gear donated by the sponsors. There were also second and third place winners who received products from the sponsors of the event. Major media outlets in Argentina supported the historic making event such as video channels MTV, CME, and powerhouse Rock & Pop 95.9 radio located in Buenos Aires. Vernon also did countless interviews with major press supporting the “Guitar Power” event. This historical event was a huge success and will be continued due to the attention Boosweet Records and Neilly garnered for the event. This was not the first time that Vernon Neilly and Boosweet records partnered with major brands in the music world. Previously he was recognized for his “Six String Extravaganza” contest with label CEO and guitar icon Steve Vai.

Email: promodept@boosweet.com Boosweet Records, Guitar Global, and Vernon Neilly are currently running another “Custom Guitar Giveaway”. To be eligible interested parties only have to go to Vernon’s facebook.com fan page at http://www.facebook.com/vernonneillyband like the page and then forward an email to the director of promotions at pierre@boosweet.com to be notified if you win. You can also direct all questions to this address concerning the giveaway. Last day to enter is June 30, 2012.

Kool And The Gang Guitarist Chooses Raven West Guitars

Kool and The Gang's guitarist, Amir - Salaam Bayyan is known to audiences world wide for his incredibly expressive, funky and soulful playing. His credits as a composer, engineer and producer include Vanessa Williams, Color Me Bad, Jimmy Cliff, Gloria Gaynor and many more and his silky guitar work has been a cornerstone of the Kool and The Gang sound for many years. So when he needed to expand his arsenal for Kool's new tour with the recently regrouped Van Halen, RavenWestGuitar would become Amir's first choice! Founder Of RWG Eric Bergquist explains " We were all thrilled a true Legend like Amir thought enough of our guitars that he chose to make RWG's his for this incredible tour with Van Halen" Amir chose the RG6900 birds-eye maple and the RG5200 Ebony, both neck thru instruments feature EMG pickups and black Satin Stealth hardware. He will be taking them on the stage with him nightly, throughout the tour. The VAN HALEN tour featuring special guest KOOL AND THE GANG will kick off FEBRUARY 18th and promises to be one of the most incredible concerts of the year. Tickets are available through TICKETMASTER. For more information check out - www.koolandthegang.com - RAVEN WEST GUITARS webstore: ravenwestguitar.com

Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS Guitar Gets Debut At Super Bowl XLVI

The Super Bowl Half Time Show has been home to many memorable guitar moments, and Super Bowl XLVI will be no exception. Phillip Jarrell of Jarrell Guitars announced at the 2012 NAMM Show the first live performance of the revolutionary new Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS guitar during Super Bowl KLVI Halftime Show on Sunday, February 5th, courtesy of Monte Pittman, Grammy Award winning artist Madonna's guitarist for the past ten years. NAMM Show 2012 attendees had the first opportunity to get 'hands on, up close and personal' with the instrument, experiencing its unique vibe. Pittman and his Signature Jarrell guitar join an extraordinary group of guitarists who have performed at Super Bowl Half Time Shows, including Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash who stole the show from The Black Eyed Peas and Usher in 2011, Bruce Springsteen, who showed viewers that he was still "The Boss" with a crowd pleasing around the body guitar spin in 2009, and Prince, whose 2007 guitar solo was played behind a transparent sheet and held in a way that left critics deeming it "Phallic." In 2006, Mick Jagger and The Rolling Stones banged it out with a boldness that was touted as a "raw, dirty, guitar sound, and in 2002, The Edge joined U2 and Bono in 2002 for a hypnotic guitar solo on "Where The Streets Have No Name." The Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS is the result of the collaboration between the award winning visionary designer Phillip Jarrell and world renowned artist, writer, and guitarist Monte Pittman. Pittman plays so many different styles of music during any given performance that, until now, he required many different types of guitars to accommodate his needs. Utilizing Pittman's feedback, Jarrell Guitars worked with MJ at the Seymour Duncan Shop to transform the finest MPS guitar at the time into something completely new - the most versatile instrument ever made. The Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS boasts a mega set of Seymour Duncan pickups with a P-Rail neck, STk-S7 Vintage Hot Stack middle and a custom design SH-13 Dime Bucker Bridge. Both neck and bridge have 3 position mini switches, with custom wiring using a Super 5 way switch, and a kill switch. All together it seems Monte Pittman and Jarrell Guitars are hell bent on rocking the world - the sound of which is none other than simply amazing. Jarrell Guitars was named "2010 Manufacturer of the Year" at the Music Industries Association of Canada (MIAC) Show in Canada, and has received accolades from PremierGuitar.com. http://jarrellguitars.com http://jarrellguitars.com/news29/ http://www.jarrell-mps.com/ http://www.jarrellguitars.com/artistpage_home.html info@jarrellguitars.com Contact info: Eric de Fontenay ecfont@musicdish.net +1-718-278-0662

Jarrell Guitars Debuts "Monte Pittman Signature" Guitar at NAMM 2012

As part of NAMM Show 2012 being held on January 19-22 in Anaheim California, guitar manufacturing mogul Phillip Jarrell will showcase the latest and greatest creations in the Jarrell Guitar collection. Featuring the debut of the revolutionary Monte Pittman Signature Series of 3 guitars: MPS.1, MPS.f, and the MPS*Classic, attendees will have the opportunity to get 'hands on,' up close and personal with the new line, experiencing the unique vibe for themselves at the Jarrell Booth (4198). A press conference will be held on Saturday, January 21st at 11 a.m. with Jarrell Guitars, Seymour Duncan, Orange Amps, and Monte Pittman. After a year of prototypes and tests, the first live performance on the new final design, Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS will be at Super Bowl 2012, played by Monte Pittman himself during pop superstar Madonna's half-time show. Pittman has been Madonna's guitarist for the last decade. The Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS is the result of the collaboration between the award winning visionary designer Phillip Jarrell and world renowned artist, writer, and guitarist Monte Pittman. Pittman plays so many different styles of music during any given performance that, until now, he required many different types of guitars to accommodate his needs. Utilizing Pittman's feedback, Jarrell Guitars worked with MJ at the Seymour Duncan Shop to transform the finest MPS guitar at the time into something completely new - the most versatile instrument ever made. The Monte Pittman Signature Jarrell MPS boasts a mega set of Seymour Duncan pick ups with a P-Rail neck, STk-S7 Vintage Hot Stack middle and a custom design SH-13 Dime Bucker Bridge. Both neck and bridge have 3 position mini switches, with custom wiring using a Super 5 way switch, and a kill switch. All together it seems Monte Pittman and Jarrell Guitars are hell bent on rocking the world - the sound of which is none other than simply amazing. Jarrell Guitars was named "2010 Manufacturer of the Year" at the Music Industries Association of Canada (MIAC) Show in Canada, and has received accolades from PremierGuitar.com. http://jarrellguitars.com http://jarrellguitars.com/news29/ http://www.jarrell-mps.com/ http://www.jarrellguitars.com/artistpage_home.html Contact info: Eric de Fontenay ecfont@musicdish.net +1-718-278-0662

LITTLE FREDDIE KING new 2012 CD "Chasing tha Blues"

New Orleans, LA. - Former Fat Possum Records artist and The Last "Gut-Bucket" Bluesman Standing is at it again! King is releasing his third cd on indie label MadeWright Records - 17 January 2012 and distributed by Portland, OR based, "BDC Distribution". To order contact Frank Brandon, frank@bdcdistribution.com. The album was recorded at the "funky" Piety Street Studio in N.O. and mastered by the Grammy winning audio engineer, John Fischbach (Stevie Wonder, "Songs in the Key of Life") and produced by "Wacko" Wade Production, LLC. Little Freddie King's life has always been hard, Hell, not long ago he was blown out of New Orleans by Katrina and went missing for a time. When he finally settled back into town, Freddie was forced to move out of his new apartment by toxic Chinese drywall that was wrecking the place. It's always been this tough, and it always will be. "CHASING THA BLUES" takes you on a rough ride through Freddie's life. You get to meet "Crackho Flo" and hang out at the "Bucket of Blood". It's all in the songs. No matter whether it's at home at BJ's Lounge, on the road in New York, or overseas, the vocals are made of grit and tears, and the guitar licks can't be written down. The power is in the spaces between the notes. www.littlefreddieking.com

North Carolina Filmmaker Erik Olsen brings Lichty Custom Handmade Acoustic Guitars to Life

The film, “Luthier Jay W. Lichty” was produced by filmmaker Erik Olsen and reflects a collaboration of crafts. During this project Olsen worked with cameras, lenses, lights and jibs while Lichty’s tools included sanders, hand planes, chisels and routers. At its conclusion Olsen produced a film that powerfully captures the spirit and passion of custom guitar builder Jay Lichty while Lichty completed one of his finest guitars to date – a breathtaking Brazilian Rosewood dreadnought guitar.

“Luthier Jay W. Lichty” is a film whose appeal reaches far beyond the interests of a guitar builder or player. As a filmmaker Olsen tells a story that touches all the senses and that takes the viewer on an intimate musical journey into the small luthier shop of Lichty Guitars, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The film can be viewed at www.erikolsenfilms.comhttp://www.erikolsenfilms.com. Further information about Lichty custom handmade acoustic guitars can be found at www.lichtyguitars.com.

Watch Luthier Jay W. Lichty

Contact: info@lichtyguitars.com

About Lichty Guitars
Luthier Jay Lichty builds handmade acoustic guitars and ukuleles in Tryon, NC. He was the winner of the 2010 Made in the South Awards and has top performing artists playing his guitars from Australia to Japan to Nashville. He specializes in working with clients to build heirloom quality custom instruments.

About Erik Olsen Films
A native of Germany, Erik Olsen began learning about photography at a very early age. As a result, he converted his childhood pastime into a career as a television news photojournalist. He continued in the TV news business until making the decision to transform his expertise into a business. Today, Erik is blessed to follow his given passion and pursue what he loves for a living, filmmaking and photography.