Tag: aor heaven

AUTUMN’S CHILD – NEW ALBUM IN FEBRUARY…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

PRESS RELEASE:

Brand new album called “Angel’s Gate” is coming up from melodic rockers Autumn’s Child on February 26th.

Mikael Erlandsson needs no further introduction when it comes to melodic rock.
He has released six successful solo albums and a lot of titles with groups like Phenomena,
Salute among others. Between 2006 2018 Erlandsson front ed the Swedish super group
Secret Service which he toured with live all over the world.
Together with the fantastic guitar player Andy Malecek from the successful German hard
rock band Fair Warning he founded the band LAST AUTUMNS DREAM in 2003 which
also featured Ian Haugland, Mic Michaeli and John Leven of Europe fame at the time. The
self titled debut album was produced by Claes Andreasson and became a great success.
Last Autumn’s Dream went on releasing another 14 albums with different line ups
including great musicians like Jamie Borger (Treat ) and Marcel Jacob (Talisman ). They
toured Japan, England and Germany but decided to take a break in 2018.
Shortly after, Erlandsson founded the group AUTUMN’S CHILD . Their self titled debut
album was released in January 2019 through AOR Heaven feat. Jona Tee on keyboards
(H.E.A.T), Robban Bäck , former drummer of Eclipse and currently in the line up with
Swedish rock band Mustasch, Claes Andreasson of Swedish Westcoast/AOR band
Heartbreak Radio who also produced the first Autumns Child album together with Mikael
Erlandsson. Guitars come courtesy of Pontus Åkesson Moon Safari).

“Angel’s Gate” now marks AUTMUN’S CHILD’s return. This time they have defined their
craft even more and the album is again filled with great songs and classy musicianship.
The album starts off with the song “Where Angels Cry” which offers all of the Autumn’s
Child’s typical elements: hard Melodic Rock with a Nordic touch.
There are homages throughout the album to Whitesnake, AOR, Supertramp, Gary
Moore,10cc, Manfred Mann and ELO but most of all it sounds like nothing else in today’s
music scene.


The album was produced by
Claes Andreasson and Mikael Erlandsson .
Mixed and mastered by Mikael Andersson at Soundport Studio
Vocals
Mikael Erlandsson
Drums
Robban Bäck
Bass
Johan Strömberg
Keyboard solo on 2 tracks
Jona Tee
Main Keyboards
Mikael Erlandsson
Guitars
Pontus Åkesson
Piano on ”Don’t ever leave me ’
Claes Andreasson

AMADEUS MELODIC ROCK SHOW’s 2020 – TOP 10 RELEASES…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

It’s that time of the year when you look back and try to choose the most interesting releases of 2020. This year was a horrible one for all the humanity and as we realize that there are harder times on sight for everyone of us but mostly for the artists who try to make a living through their music, here are some of the best releases of 2020.

Many thanks to everyone who support in every way the music we love.

Let’s hope for a better year ahead.
See you all in 2021!
Rock ON!

Lino “AmadeuS”

2020’s  TOP TEN RELEASES
1-H.E.A.T.  –  H.E.A.T. II
2-BROTHER FIRETRIBE – FEEL THE BURN
3-ROB MORATTI – PARAGON
4-STAN BUSH – DARE TO DREAM
5-COLLATERAL – ST
6-EAST TEMPLE AVENUE – BOTH SIDES OF MIDNIGHT
7-GATHERING OF KINGS – DISCOVERY
8-BONFIRE – FISTFUL OF FIRE
9-ATLAS – PARALLEL LOVE
10-WILDNESS – ULTIMATE DEMISE

2020’s – TOP 5 SINGLES
1-IMPERIUM – VISION IN A DREAM
2-CATS IN SPACE – LISTEN TO THE RADIO
3-LASTWORLD – DYING TO LIVE
4-BAND OF HEARTS – I STAND ALONE
5-AUTUMN’S CHILD – RUBICON SIGN

Art Of Illusion – Debut album in January 2021…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

PRESS RELEASE:

Debut album entitled “X Marks The Spot“ from Art Of Illusion will be released through
AOR Heaven in Europe in January 29th.
*Japan Release date: February 3rd through Marquee Avalon.

Art Of Illusion is a fusion of songwriter/producer Anders Rydholm, from the
band Grand Illusion, and singer extraordinaire Lars Säfsund, from the band Work
Of Art. “X Marks the Spot” is the first album from these Swedish musicians.

Track list:
1. Wild and free
2. Run
3. My loveless lullaby
4. Waltz for the movies
5. 4 AM
6. Go
7. Snakebite charm
8. Let the games begin
9. A culinary detour
10. Catch you if I can
11. Rampant wildfire
12. Race against time

Melody is the key in their music and there is a homage to melodic rock and
bands like Queen, Giant and Big Money. Catchy melodies, great hooks and tons
of glorious vocals are the formula for success. Anders plays keyboards, bass and
rhythm guitars, while Lars sings lead and background vocals and also contributes
some keyboards. The album is produced by Anders and Lars.


Guests on the album are guitarists Jay Graydon, Muris Varajic, Kristian Larsen,
Pelle Holmberg and Daniel Rydholm. Drummer Frank ”Frallan” Nilsson,
background vocalist Per Svensson and steel guitar player Tony Paoletta also
appear. Music is written by Anders Rydholm. Lyrics by Anders Rydholm, Arlene
Matza-Jackson and Patrik Ahlm.



ATLAS – New clip released…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

British Melodic Metallers ATLAS released their new video “Human Touch” out of their second album called “Parallel Love” set for release on September 25th on AOR Heaven.

Track list: 1. The Fever, 2. Without You, 3. In Your Head, 4. Weathered Heart, 5. Human Touch, 6. Dare To Love, 7. Falling Out Of Love, 8. Early Warning, 9. We Are The Fire, 10. Beyond The Limit, 11. Here With You “Parallel Love” is the second album by British Melodic Rock band ATLAS. Writing sessions for “Parallel Love” started shortly after the band’s 2019 tour with Midnite City and Age of Reflection, with the band spending much longer on the demo process than for their previous album, polishing their ideas through the autumn and winter of 2019. This resulted in 11 tracks that the band felt were more concise and stronger than previous efforts. The band chose to pursue a heavier edge for the album production, while staying true to their Melodic Rock and AOR roots. The album line-up consists of Craig Wells (Vocals), Howie Little (Guitar), James Thorley (Keyboards), Chris Redfearn (Bass) and Ryan Briggs (Drums). James Thorley took on the role of producer and recording engineer, with Christoffer Borg (Art Nation, Taste) once again taking over the role of mixing and mastering. The five-piece chose to work with AOR Heaven again for the world-wide release of “Parallel Love” due to the successful working relationship for their previous release “In Pursuit Of Memory”. “Parallel Love” explores complicated and difficult themes in relationships that arenʼt often touched on in traditional AOR, while still exploring the highs and lows of what love brings to life. “Human Touch” showcases the physical side of love with no strings attached, while “Here With You” is a declaration of love lyrically and musically with the band showcasing a string ensemble for the album’s finale. These parallel themes are intended to tie the album together lyrically. “Weathered Heart” celebrates a new love after the turmoils of previous relationships, while “Falling Out Of Love” deals with pursuing love for the wrong reasons. https://www.facebook.com/atlasprojectuk

Video directed by Samuel Andrew Fenton

Video produced by Fenton Visuals

http://www.fentonvisuals.com

SHAFT OF STEEL – Debut album out on FEB. 28th – New Single released….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

British melodic hard rockers SHAFT OF STEEL have released a new single out of their debut album called “Steel Heartbeat” set for release on February 28th from AOR Heaven.

SHAFT OF STEEL are a melodic hard rock band based in London, UK and centered around the songwriting partnership of Alex Markham (guitar) and Robert Fenning (vocals). The group’s line-up is completed by Adam Carruthers (guitar), Dominic Swords (bass), Chris Smurthwaite (keyboards) and Michael Levy (drums).
Formed in 2004 at Hull University, SHAFT OF STEEL began life as a power metal band influenced by acts such as Iron Maiden, Dream Theater and Blind Guardian. Guitarist Alex Markham and vocalist Robert Fenning soon discovered that they had a shared love of 80s rock and pop music, in particular Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins and Journey, and quickly sought to combine these sounds with their metal influences. After three years as a popular and much-loved local act on the Scarborough music scene, the band went their separate ways after graduating.
In 2011, after establishing themselves in other careers, the band felt it was finally right to regroup and record an EP. Bassist Andy Cooper and drummer Garth Vickers from the earlier incarnation of SHAFT OF STEEL re-joined, along with Markham’s school friends, guitarist Adam Carruthers and keyboard player Chris Smurthwaite.
During their hiatus, the members of SHAFT OF STEEL learned of the thriving AOR scene in mainland Europe and were determined to introduce more melodic influences into their music upon reforming. The band’s self-titled debut EP was released independently in 2014 and picked up plaudits in the music press all around the globe, appearing in Classic Rock AOR, Powerplay and Fireworks magazines and a host of online publications.
SHAFT OF STEEL subsequently made their first live appearance with their new line-up, supporting UK melodic rock heavyweights VEGA at The Garage in London in 2014. Since then, they’ve appeared at the prestigious HRH AOR Festival in North Wales and The Underworld, Camden, where they delivered a storming hour-long set, filled with new material.
Bassist Andy Cooper and drummer Garth Vickers departed the line-up in 2017 and were replaced respectively by Dominic Swords and Michael Levy, both of whom had already played in earlier incarnations of the band. A full-length album remained an ongoing project in the years following the EP release and it was finally completed in late 2019.
SHAFT OF STEEL have signed to AOR Heaven for the release of the new album, entitled ‘Steel Heartbeat’. They have made major stylistic leaps on this record, taking influence from a range of melodic hard rock and AOR acts, including Work of Art, FM, Harem Scarem, Strangeways and Shy, while being careful not to abandon their metal roots.
‘Steel Heartbeat’ features backing vocals on all tracks from respected American producer and musician Dennis Ward. Famous for being the bass player in legendary German hard rockers Pink Cream 69 (and, more recently, the vocalist for Firewind main man Gus G’s solo material), Ward appeared on the band’s debut EP and has also mastered the record. The album was produced and mixed by guitarist Alex Markham, who took up the same roles on the debut EP.

Line-up
Robert Fenning – Lead Vocals; Alex Markham – Guitars; Adam Carruthers – Guitars; Dominic Swords – Bass; Chris Smurthwaite – Keyboards; Michael Levy – Drums

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Track List:
1. Touching You Every Day 
2. I’ve Never Been Alone (With a Girl Like You Before),
3. All Because of You
4. Together as One Tonight 
5. Vulnerable Man
6. Falling Through the Flames
7. Body and Mind
8. Lucky Girl
9. You See Smoke When I See Fire
11. Every Time I Look at You

Carl Dixon – Unbroken set for release on November 29th….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

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Dixon’s solo debut ‘One’ (1993), appears to have been a pretty obvious move for a man of his standing (at least from the European perspective). Carl, born in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario had come to prominence in the early 80s as one of the frontmen for the critically acclaimed Canadian hard rock band Coney Hatch.
However, having released three albums between 1982 and 1985, Dixon had become pretty disillusioned with his career at that point; tired of the many frustrations that being on a major label (who don’t appear to care) brings on a touring band trying to get noticed. Ironically, as has been shown time and again, North American bands often appear to be curiously shielded from any success they may be achieving abroad. In Coney Hatch’s case there was another market out there bursting to embrace them in Europe, if only they’d known about it.
After focussing on songwriting for other artists for a while, eventually switching focus from North America, where Grunge was on the brink, to Europe, especially Germany, where Coney Hatch made a much bigger impact, Carl wouldn’t fully learn about it only until Coney Hatch’ performance at the 2014 edition of Firefest, England.
’One’ features fifteen songs, one of them (‘One Good Reason’) a co-write with Brett Walker, another one (‘Taste Of Love’) Aerosmith meets Def Leppard flavored.
Dixon’s first wife Stella ended up adding backing vocals alongside e.g. Mark Santer (Santers) or Mike Shotton (Von Groove). It took a month of recording in four different studios especially focussing on how the guitars sound. The Canadian still is very proud of it and about the fact that people still remember the album.
After being with The Guess Who and April Wine for a while and a horrible car crash in Australia in 2008, he’s back with Coney Hatch leading to the 2013 record ‘Four’ and has released a couple of solo records since. Additionally, he’s having a brand new solo effort by the name of ‘Unbroken’ coming out soon on with he collaborated with Frontline’s Robby Böbel.
After the re-issue of the classic album “One” in October 2019, November sees the release of the first collaboration between Carl and Robert Boebel, a long-time stalwart on the German music scene with bands like Frontline and Phantom V, among many. The result is the new release, Carl Dixon UNBROKEN, a powerfully sung and performed album that reaches the heights of AOR Melodic Rock. Memorable hooks, strong melodies, great guitar playing and production, and drumming performed by Mark Santer (Santers) and newcomer Dylan Gowan (Vesperia, Cardinal Street).

Track List: 1. Can’t Love A Memory, 2. Bowl Me Over, 3. Nothing Lasts Forever, 4. Every Step Of The Way, 5. Summer Nights, 6. All My Love And Hopes For You, 7. This Isn’t The End, 8. Drive Just Drive, 9. Roll The Dice, 10. Keep The Faith, 11. Unbroken

Carl Dixon – “One” reissued …..out on Oct.25th….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

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Dixon’s solo debut ‘One’ (1993), appears to have been a pretty obvious move for a man of his standing (at least from the European perspective). Carl, born in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario had come to prominence in the early 80s as one of the frontmen for the critically acclaimed Canadian hard rock band Coney Hatch.
However, having released three albums between 1982 and 1985, Dixon had become pretty disillusioned with his career at that point; tired of the many frustrations that being on a major label (who don’t appear to care) brings on a touring band trying to get noticed. Ironically, as has been shown time and again, North American bands often appear to be curiously shielded from any success they may be achieving abroad. In Coney Hatch’s case there was another market out there bursting to embrace them in Europe, if only they’d known about it.
After focussing on songwriting for other artists for a while, eventually switching focus from North America, where Grunge was on the brink, to Europe, especially Germany, where Coney Hatch made a much bigger impact, Carl wouldn’t fully learn about it only until Coney Hatch’ performance at the 2014 edition of Firefest, England.
’One’ features fifteen songs, one of them (‘One Good Reason’) a co-write with Brett Walker, another one (‘Taste Of Love’) Aerosmith meets Def Leppard flavored.
Dixon’s first wife Stella ended up adding backing vocals alongside e.g. Mark Santer (Santers) or Mike Shotton (Von Groove). It took a month of recording in four different studios especially focussing on how the guitars sound. The Canadian still is very proud of it and about the fact that people still remember the album.
After being with The Guess Who and April Wine for a while and a horrible car crash in Australia in 2008, he’s back with Coney Hatch leading to the 2013 record ‘Four’ and has released a couple of solo records since. Additionally, he’s having a brand new solo effort by the name of ‘Unbroken’ coming out soon on with he collaborated with Frontline’s Robby Böbel.
This reissued version of ‘One’ contains two bonus tracks, is digitally remastered by Chris Lyne and comes with liner notes by Dave Reynolds.
http://www.carldixon.com

ROB MORATTI – NEW album OUT on JUNE 21st….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

Brand new album called “Renaissance” is coming up on June 21st from ROB MORATTI along with great melodies, singing and a fantastic guitar playing.
10 melodic blasting tracks will stick into your ears for longtime and makes you feel that the next upcoming years have found already their soundtrack.
AOR HEAVEN states:
“When it comes to songs, melodies, harmonies and range – as many know – Rob Moratti is in a league of his own. The songs on “Renaissance” are astonishing as ever. Filled with his trademark harmonies and memorable chorus’s that will capture the listener and engrave your soul. Working alongside with some the best songwriters and performers in the genre such as Torben Enevoldsen on guitars, Fredrik Bergh on keyboards, Stu Reid on drums and Tony Franklin on the Monster Bass.”

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Track List:
1. You Are The One
2. Let Me Be The One
3. Best of Me
4. Lift You Up
5. Hold On To Love
6. I Let You In
7. It’s Time To Go
8. Many Come Home
9. I Don’t Want To Wait Forever
10. It Hurts To Be I Love

Produced by Rob Moratti, Mixed by Rob Moratti and Torben Enevoldsen and Mastered by Rob Moratti.

The album will be released from AOR HEAVEN and you can have a “bite” here below.

AMRShow APPROVED 9.5 /10

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Rob Moratti, the Solo Artist, the Voice of Final Frontier and the former Voice of Saga.
Rob Moratti is a genuine and true original. With an astonishing range, he’s carved such a unique style blending the finest elements of melodic and progressive rock.
He started his career professionally in the early 90’s as lead vocalist and songwriter of the band Moratti; entering the new millennium with Final Frontier. They immediately were well received making an impact on the airwaves of Japan and in Europe. Rob’s future went forward with Final Frontier, soaring out four incredible melodic pieces. Over the years in spite of all the changes in the music scene, Rob’s perseverance and passion stood strong. His fate is so undeniable it captured the attention of multi-platinum selling and legendary progressive rock band SAGA. In 2008 the official announcement was made that Rob Moratti would become the new voice of Saga and at the age of 42 Rob’s destiny would evolve.
Today his solo career has taken off quite well. Now in 2019, the singer is about to deliver his strongest solo record ever titled “Renaissance” which marks his first release with AOR Heaven.
Rob also has worked with many power house musicians that have been part of his solo career like Reb Beach of (Whitesnake/ Winger), Tony Franklin of (Blue Murder / Firm), Brian Doerner of (Saga) and Ian Crichton of (Saga).
robmoratti.net

CARE OF NIGHT – NEW album details revealed

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

Skandi Act CARE OF NIGHT’s new album “Love Equals War”, produced by Erik Wigelius, is set to be released by AOR Heaven/GerMusica Promotion on November the 23rd 2018.

care of
Track listing:
1. Love equals War
2. Your perfection
3. She leads you on
4. All I got
5. Hit
6. Ivory Tower
7. Cold as my heart
8. Please don’t leave
9. We will find a way
10. At last

Care of Night.
Calle Schönberg – Lead Vocals
Viktor Öström Berg – Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Bass Guitar.
Kristofer V. Wachenfeldt – Keyboards, Vocals
Linus Svensson – Drums, Vocals

WHITE WIDDOW – Victory (8.75/10)

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

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Formed in Melbourne, Australia in 2008 and centered around the Millis brothers Jules (Vocals – ex Tigertailz) & Xavier (Keyboards – 2 x Aria Nominee) and guitar virtuoso Enzo Almanzi. Raised on a healthy diet of 80’s Arena Rock and influenced by artists such as Survivor, Foreigner, Journey, Night Ranger, Starship, Dokken and Australia’s own Rick Springfield. In 2010 White Widdow signed with the AOR Heaven label and stormed onto the Melodic Rock scene across the globe with the release of their self-titled debut album throughout Europe. The release of the debut was met by the press with rave reviews making it into Classic Rock Magazine’s top 10 AOR albums for 2010. White Widdow quickly returned with their follow up release “Serenade” in September 2011, showcasing a more crafted song style and structure. In support of “Serenade”, White Widdow hit the road playing festivals and headlining club shows throughout Europe which saw them tour through Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Greece and England. Along the way performing at HEAT Festival (Germany) and Firefest (UK) and playing alongside artists including Jimi Jamison (Survivor), Steve Auguri (Journey), Unruly Child, Stage Dolls, Keel, Shakra, Strangeways, Silent Rage, Alien, Mitch Malloy, Coney Hatch, Jeff Paris, Kane Roberts and many more. In 2014 White Widdow’s third opus. “Crossfire” was released and was once again met with praise from both rock critics and melodic rock/ AOR fans, receiving positive reviews. In March 2015 White Widdow returned to tour Europe with shows in Spain and Greece before returning to the UK with shows across England and finishing the tour at Hard Rock Hell AOR Festival in Wales sharing the stage with AOR Legends Night Ranger & FM. 2016 saw White Widdow release their fourth album “Silhouette”, a very slick AOR affair that was heaped with praise by the Melodic Rock Press and Media. White Widdow returned to tour Europe and once again performed at HEAT Festival in Germany alongside artists including Treat and Pink Cream 69. 2018 has seen White Widdow re-enter the studio for their fifth album “Victory”, celebrating ten years since the band began and an album cover that throws back to the style of their debut. “Victory” incorporates a strong Pomp element in the songs along with White Widdow’s traditional classic 80’s AOR sound, the band allowing their influence of bands like Giuffria and White Sister to really come through. Featuring over the top pompus keyboards, stacked harmony vocals from the Millis brothers and Enzo Almanzi’s tasty solos throughout. White Widdow are set to perform at Rockingham in the UK in support of the new album, followed by a tour through Spain, Greece and their native Australia.

White Widdow are:
Lead Vocals – Jules Millis;
Keyboards & Vocals – Xavier Millis;
Guitars – Enzo Almanzi;
Bass – Ben Webster;
Drums – Gavin Hill

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1. Victory, 2. Fight For Love, 3. Second Hand Heart, 4. Late Night Liason, 5. Danced In The Moonlight, 6. Love And Hate, 7. Reach Up, 8. Anything, 9. America, 10. Run And Hide

 

AMRS APPROVED  8.75 /10

tour

MIDNITE CITY – “There goes the neighbourhood” (9/10)

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

Following on from their explosive self-titled debut album last year, MIDNITE CITY return all guns blazing on 19th of October 2018 with their sophomore release ‘THERE GOES THE NEIGHBOURHOOD’ – eleven tracks of fist pumping, high energy, feel-good, hair metal of the highest order!

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1. Here Comes The Party, 2. Give Me Love, 3. You Don’t Understand, 4. Life Ain’t Like This On The Radio, 5. We’re Gonna Make It, 6. Tonight You’re All I Need, 7. Hard To Get Over, 8. Takes One To Know One, 9. Heaven’s Falling, 10. Gave Up Giving Up, 11. Until The End
The lush melodies, huge choruses and gargantuan hooks found on their debut album are all here in abundance alongside some true modern day glam anthems, fun commercial party rock, moody mid-paced hard rockers and heart wrenching power ballads big enough to light up an entire arena.
As with the first album, the winning formula has remained – all songs have been written by Rob Wylde, whilst Pete Newdeck has once again taken control of production, engineering and mixing duties. With ‘THERE GOES THE NEIGHBOURHOOD’ the band has literally stepped everything up several notches to unbridled, head splitting proportions. The guitars are big, the drums are huge, there are walls and walls of harmonies and more synths than you’d find this side of a classic Bon Jovi album. In a nutshell, this album has everything but the kitchen sink!
With shows all over the UK and Europe in 2017/ 2018, MIDNITE CITY’s sound is tighter than ever before.
So if you long for a band that still look, sound and perform like those long lost million selling forgotten bands of the late 80’s/ early 90’s, MIDNITE CITY and ‘THERE GOES THE NEIGHBOURHOOD’ is the album for you. Don’t forget to catch MIDNITE CITY tearing it up live all over the UK, Europe and beyond in their own inimitable, arena rock style in 2018/ 2019…

’HERE COMES WEEKEND…HERE COMES THE PARTY!’

AMRS APPROVED  9/10

 

 

WHITE WIDDOW – New album out in October….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

Australian AORsters White Widdow announced the release of their new album through the band’s facebook page.
Tha band stated: “The upcoming fifth White Widdow album “Victory” will be released in Europe & UK on October 26th 2018 on the AOR Heaven Label.”

Tracklist –
1. Victory
2. Fight For Love
3. Second Hand Heart
4. Late Night Liason
5. Danced In The Moonlight
6. Love And Hate
7. Reach Up
8. Anything
9. America
10. Run And Hide.

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NEWMAN – “Decade II” out in September…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

In 1997 Singer, songwriter Steve Newman formed the band Newman and since 1998 have been producing consistently high quality albums filled with hook laden songs and thought provoking lyrics. The now, hard to find self-titled album was followed up in 1999 by the awesome “One Step Closer” album. Continuing the high standard came “Dance In The Fire” and then “Sign Of The Modern Times” in 2000, and 2003 respectfully. Fans and critics alike began to realize they were dealing with an artist that would evolve and mature with them.
The year 2006 saw the release of “Heaven Knows”, and once again proved beyond all doubt that Newman were becoming one of the top purveyors of Melodic Rock in the UK. Any doubts about the quality or consistency were cast aside when in 2007 “Primitive Soul” was released to great acclaim. This was followed in 2008 by “Decade” a double album celebrating 10 years of Newman. However, not wanting to take the usual route of a “hits” album this was packaged with a second CD containing another 14 unreleased songs which ended up being so well received it was reviewed as a new studio album. “Decade” may have been a great way for a band to sign off and call it a day, however, not only was this not even considered, the focus went into producing the next stage of the bands career.
In 2010 “The Art Of Balance” was released to huge acclaim from critics and fans. The band followed this up with a string of successful live dates including Cambridge Rock Festival, Firefest Festival, and a UK Tour supporting John Waite. All this was achieved in the face of huge emotional strain after Steve suffered losing both his parents that year. In fact, as the writing progressed onto the following recording “Under Southern Skies” this AOR Heaven release ended up being a very personal and reflective album for Steve.
All this time , the live band, with the addition of Pete Newdeck on Drums, joining Steve (Vocals, Guitar), Shaun Bessant (Guitar, Vocals), Paul Boyle (Keyboards, Vocals), Dave Bartlett (Bass, Vocals) were gaining momentum, culiminating in shows in Greece, Spain, Germany, and the US. 2014 saw the re-recording and release of the acclaimed first album as a Limited Edition, This coincided with a successful UK tour with Vega. More live shows ensued before returning to the studio in 2014 and putting together what would become 2015’s “The Elegance Machine”. In 2016 Newman embarked on their first UK headline tour which was a great success as well as some other selected dates in Europe. At the end of the tour Steve took some time late in 2016 to concentrate on writing for a few other artists as well as having 3 songs re-recorded for the Goran Edman album “Cry Of Dawn”. It was within these sessions that Steve started to piece together the foundations for his next release. In 2017 “Aerial” was released, a more classic AOR Melodic Rock feeling album which had tremendous reviews and responses across the globe.
So we turn to 2018, and the 20th anniversary of Newman. Steve decided to celebrate this with “Decade II” following the same format as the first Decade release. A 2 CD 34 track album covering the bands history from 2007 to the present.

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Newman – Decade II
Cd 1:
01 Hero To Zero (From the album “The Art of Balance” Chrome Dome 2010)
02 Heading For Your Heart (From the album “Primitive Soul” Chrome Dome 2007)
03 Ghost In The Night (From the album “Under Southern Skies” AOR Heaven 2011)
04 Feel Her Again (From the album “Siren” AOR Heaven 2013)
05 Stay With Me (From the album “The Art Of Balance” 2010)
06 The Elegance Machine (From the album “The Elegance Machine” AOR Heaven 2016)
07 Killing Me (From the album “Under Southern Skies” AOR Heaven 2011)
08 Primitive Soul (From the album “Primitive Soul” Chrome Dome 2007)
09 Endless (From the album “The Art of Balance” Chrome Dome 2010)
10 Fire With Fire (From the album “Under Southern Skies” AOR Heaven 2011)
11 Scar Of Love (From the album “Siren” AOR Heaven 2013)
12 15 Minute Revolution (From the album “Primitive Soul” Chrome Dome 2007)
13 She Walks In Silence (From the album “The Elegance Machine” AOR Heaven 2016)
14 Under Southern Skies (From the album “Under Southern Skies” AOR Heaven 2011)
15 Had Enough (From the album “Siren” AOR Heaven 2013)
16 Tumble Down (From the album “The Art of Balance” Chrome Dome 2010)
17 For The Man I Am (From the album “Primitive Soul” Chrome Dome 2007)

Cd 2:
01 Breaking The Barrier (From “The Elegance Machine” sessions 2014)
02 Girl Found Love (From “The Elegance Machine” sessions 2014)
03 Liar (From The “Aerial” sessions 2016)
04 One More Night With You (Frontiers song submission)
05 Fight No More (From the “Aerial” sessions 2016)
06 She’s The Woman (From “The Elegance Machine” sessions 2014)
07 Nightmare (“Under Southern Skies” Japanese bonus track)
08 Angel (From The “Aerial” sessions 2016)
09 World Keeps Turning (Frontiers song submission for the Toby Hitchcock album)
10 In Too Deep (From the “Aerial” sessions 2016)
11 The More I Love (“Under Southern Skies” Japanese bonus track)
12 Crossed My Heart (From the “Aerial” sessions 2016)
13 A Witness To Love’s Decline (From the “Aerial” sessions 2016)
14 Does It Feel The Same? (Frontiers song submission)
15 Race Of A Lifetime (From “The Elegance Machine” sessions 2014)
16 Never Becomes Again (From “The Elegance Machine” sessions 2014)
17 My Fantasy (From the “Aerial” sessions 2016)

 
DECADE II.
“So here we are again, oh, but hang on, we’re another 10 years (from the first Decade release) down the line on this musical journey. I can’t believe how quickly those years have gone by !! I wanted to keep the concept for this collection the same as the previous release, so once again, I am proud and excited to present to you another double CD re-performed and re-recorded featuring 35 songs from 2007 right through to 2017. 20 years since Newman first released the debut album, and I still get the same excitement and joy from recording and performing music. In the last 10 years the live band has gone from strength to strength and I am now surrounded by a bunch of really good friends who bring these songs to life whenever we play. My drive to write and perform is a selfish quest, however, my inspiration is you, everyone that supports my music, and the wonderful compliments I receive on a daily basis, thank you for your belief, this one is for you.” Steve Newman
Disc 1 features 17 songs from the 2007 album “Primitive Soul” through “The Art Of Balance”,
“Under Southern Skies”, “Siren”, and finally the 2015 album “The Elegance Machine”.
Disc 2 features another 17 songs, some that were written and even recorded, but not included
on the final releases, songs that were written for other artists and 2 songs that were originally released as Japanese bonus tracks. There are some songs, as before, that were “works in progress” especially recorded for this release and also another 6 songs from the “Aerial” sessions.

ATLAS – Debut album out in September….

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

UK melodic rockers ATLAS will release their debut album called “In pursuit of memory” on September 28th from AOR HEAVEN.

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Track list: 1. Samsara, 2. Bad Habit, 3. Breathe Me In, 4. Flesh and Blood, 5. As Time Goes By, 6. In The Frame, 7. Lock and Key, 8. Seasons Change, 9. Signal Of Hope, 10. Letting Go, 11. Supernova, 12. Live and Forget

ATLAS is a Melodic Rock band from the North of England that is comprised of 5 young musicians, i.e. James Thorley (Keyboards, programming and percussion), John Moss (Lead Guitars), Howie Little (Lead Guitars), Chris Redfearn (Bass Guitar) and Craig Wells (Lead Vocals). Keyboard player Thorley founded the band in early 2017 with the intention to create a band that centered its roots around the AOR and Melodic Rock genre whilst delving into other areas of Hard Rock, Metal, Progressive and even Jazz. 5 keyboard demos were produced by Thorley during the first few months of 2017.
The name ‘Atlas’ came from the working title for these demos, which would soon be molded into the songs heard on the bands’ debut EP ‘World In Motion’. ATLAS drew heavily on influences stemming from the AOR classic standards of Toto and Journey to the modern era of Work of Art and W.E.T with subtle progressive elements of Dream Theater mixed in to forge the early sound heard throughout their EP. The recording and mixing duties fell upon keyboard player James Thorley. Sam Millar of UK rock band Bigfoot contributed to the backing vocals on this EP which got self-released through their band camp website in late August 2017. The end of 2017 found the band achieve three awards from AOR Underground (A feature of Powerplay magazine) for ‘Independent album of year 2017’ for their release of the EP ‘World in Motion’, ‘Best Newcomer of 2017’ and ‘Song of the year’ with ‘Lost in The Moment’. This momentum and growing social media following provided the stepping-stone for the bands next endeavor. With strong motivation and after almost a year of working together as a band they were now eager to start collaborating on new material using the stronger aspects of their EP as a cornerstone.
The writing sessions for the debut album officially started in December 2017 and continued for 8 months. The band were given an opportunity in June to have a break from the album production when they were approached by UK Melodic Rock band Vega to open up for them and AOR Heaven rockers Midnite City in support of their latest album tour. Rob Evans of Powerplay Magazine had helped the band get in contact with Georg Siegl, the founder of AOR Heaven, and after discussions between the band and Siegl a contract was drawn up.

The album name ‘In Pursuit of Memory’ reflects the nature and themes of the songs heard throughout the album. With a common theme throughout the album being self-reflection, healing and learning from mistakes one has made; with lyricists Thorley, Moss and Wells all penning at least one track centered on those themes. The album was recorded and engineered by keyboard player James Thorley at his studio ‘The Woodshed”. Thorley also took on the role of the producer as he did on the bands previous self released EP.
Sam Millar of Bigfoot provided ‘guest vocals’ on the album as well; his vocal harmony contributions can be heard throughout most of the tracks and add a much desired AOR factor that the band often desire in their songs. Christoffer Borg (Taste, Art Nation) was chosen as the mixing and mastering engineer on ‘In Pursuit of Memory’. Borg’s credit’s, which include Anthrax, Evergrey & Kee Marcello gave the group confidence that he would be able to do the variety of songs they had written the justice it sonically deserved.

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ATLAS are:
Craig Wells – Vocals
James Thorley – Keyboards/Piano/Programming/Percussion
John Moss – Guitar Howie Little – Guitar/Acoustic Guitar
Chris Redfearn – Bass Guitar/Acoustic guitar

https://atlasmusicuk.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/atlasprojectuk

https://www.instagram.com/atlasprojectuk

JEAN BEAUVOIR – Rock Masterpieces Vol.1 …..out in JUNE…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

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Track list:
1. Faith,
2. Crown Of Thorns,
3. Dying For Love,
4. Feel The Heat (Cobra soundtrack),
5. Lyin’,
6. Heartbeat,
7. The Awakening (Shocker – Wes Craven),
8. Missing The Young Days,
9. Hike It Uo,
10. Secret Jesus,
11. Rock Ready (EA/MTV Rock Band Game),
12. The One,
13. Voodo Queen,
14. Standing On The Corner For Ya (2017 single version, as performed on The Wendy Williams TV show)

AOR HEAVEN is currently gearing up to release the first of two retrospective albums highlighting the music of Jean Beauvoir beginning in the summer of 2018. Jean Beauvoir: Rock Masterpieces Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 feature songs from his solo career including his International multi-platinum debut “Drums Along the Mohawk” album, from his band Crown Of Thorns, his band Voodoo X, which also made music and video history, some fan favorites and a couple of unreleased singles which are a part of several soon to be released projects. AOR HEAVEN will begin releasing his follow up album Jean Beauvoir” Rock Masterpieces Vol. 2 by the end of 2018, beginning of 2019. The songs on both albums will be remastered.
Beauvoir is also working with best selling British author Simon Cox (Cracking The Da Vinci Code) on a new book which will capture his storied career in music and entertainment. The iconic Blonde Mohawk of Jean Beauvoir has been an ongoing major influence on US and International pop culture in music, sports, film and TV; including several cartoons; influences that are still being seen and heard today. As a member of the Plasmatics, the most outrageous, controversial, successful Punk band ever and a longtime songwriter and producer for the Ramones, hailed as the greatest Punk band in the world, Jean Beauvoir is forever linked to two of the most revolutionary bands of the twentieth century. He was a member of the Plasmatics during their most successful and revolutionary time in music and is the only member of the Plasmatics who went onto a successful solo, production and writing career with over 40-million records sold to date and featured on over 240 albums.
Music from his solo debut album ‘Drums Along the Mohawk’ was hand picked by Sylvester Stallone for the film Cobra which led to Beauvoir making a deal with Al Teller (President of Paramount Pictures). Through working closely with Branson, Stallone and Teller, Cobra received the highest advertising budget for a Hollywood film to date at the time featuring the single “Feel the Heat” as its title track.
Since Cobra, music by Jean Beauvoir has been featured in other well known, successful films throughout his career including Pet Sematary (Stephen King). He has continued writing (and/or) producing hits with other artist’s such as KISS, Lionel Ritchie, Desmond Child and others; more recently with Korean Superstar Jonghyun of the K-pop super group Shinee whose single “Crazy Guilty Pleasure” hit #1 on Billboard’s World Album Charts (U.S.), #1 on iTunes (Worldwide) and topped the charts across Asia.
Today, the Plasmatics and the Ramones are hailed as two of the most revolutionary bands of the twentieth century. They are the original O.G. Punks and the Godfather’s and Grand Dame (Wendy O. Williams) of Punk & Metal. Today, Jean Beauvoir is also recognized as “One of the Most Influential Black Rockers of All Time” by Guitar World Magazine and is one of the most successful bass guitarists in American music.
The Ramones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2002) and honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2011). The Plasmatics are featured in the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame (2017). Jean Beauvoir continues to write, record and produce solo projects as well as collaborate with other artist’s in various genres, while staying active in film and television projects both as an actor and/or executive producer. He is currently working with American author Bill Doyle and world class illustrator Nicola Anderson on a children’s book to be released soon. Jean Beauvoir is a producer of the ground breaking film “The Killer’s Requiem” set for release in 2019 and is currently reviewing several scripts submitted for future film roles while finalizing other projects set for release in 2018/2019.

 

 

VON BALTZER – New album in June…

Posted on by Lino "AmadeuS" R.

Brand new album called “Cultural Daze” from Von Baltzer is set for release on June 29th on AOR HEAVEN.

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Von Baltzer “Cultural Daze” has everything for the classic AOR rock fans wrapped up in a modernized production by Von Baltzer and a first class vintage rock mix by Swedish producer Magnus Johansson. While the each song captures remnants of the 80’s & 90s best rock artists from Asia, Bon Jovi, Boston, Toto & a musical hint of Yes, Von Baltzer clearly have a unique style & individual sound, while still appealing to fans of Bad English, Journey & Rainbow alike. “Cultural Daze” comprises of 10 memorable heart felt rock tracks, a must for classic rock radio DJ’s and fans worldwide with some of the most amazing performances by Rocks 1st class musicianship from across Europe!

Produced by Von Baltzer this impressive debut album now delivers this memorable “back to the roots” melodic classic rock debut album with 10 co-written songs by guitarist Christian Kjellström (Atlantis/ RockXPress) and Erik Palmqvist (Pork from Cork Ireland, Mickey Slim Band); music & lyrics by vocalist Ian Parry Rock Emporium, Consortium Project, Elegy, Ayreon). Drummer Magnus Jacobson (Miss Behaviour, Claes Yngström) completes the band’s line-up. Per Ramsby (Tribute, Foundation) guests on keyboards.

“Cultural Daze” addresses recent issues in the world media and is a view of life in a multi cultural society. A heartfelt search for a way forward during these turbulent times influencing our lives and what lies ahead for society in the future.

www.facebook.com/VnBaltzer

www.youtube.com/von_baltzer

 

AMRS APPROVED :   8.5/10