MuzikMan Reviews

France - Less than 2 years after the release of “Karma Obscur,” which had brought him all over Europe (Norway, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Slovaquia, France) for more than 30 shows (NattJazz w/Cory Henry, St Emilion Jazz fest w/Maceo Parker, Boerderij/Zoetermeer, MAI/Nancy, Bordeaux w/Greg Howe…), Shob is back with “Solide,” 11 Fusion/Afro/Funk tracks which will be released on May 3, 2019 (Inouïe distribution/La Route Prod). On April 15,  SHOB and his musicians will be playing at London's famous Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club opening for guitarist Scott Henderson.

“Solide” showcases 11 tracks with Afro/Punk colors (Hostile, Vertige, la Brèche), Hip Hop moods with heavy brass riffs (Totem, Mémoire), or even Electro/80's sounds (Solide). The whole thing led by the powerful and precise drum parts of Morgan Berthet (Myrath, Eths, Kadinja), who also performed on the first two albums.

Rocky and funky guitars are amazingly played by the two newcomers: Johary Rakotondramasy & Je…

Release Date: February 2, 2019 Label: Independent Website

Dan Palladino is no stranger to recording music. His debut in the new age/ambient genre just arrived in February this year. Pastoral Memory is seven tracks born out of the art of improvisation.


Dan uses a blend of acoustic and electric guitars over the top of synth harmonies that breath in and out to create a fluctuating and soothing effect. Music like this is like an animate object taking form in your mind’s eye. One of the best examples is the lead-off track “Rising.” It is the ultimate musical exercise clocking in at a plentiful 10:15.

Some of this music can be used for focus and meditation. You will hear a steady tone throughout parts of songs like “Thankful,” which is another generous portion of Dan’s art at 5:13 then it nicely segues into “Joyful Cleansing” yet another space in time that allows for focus and relaxation, giving the listener 8:48 minutes. Dan uses the guitar for consistency with a steady picking while you hear …

Featuring Sonar drummer Manuel Pasquinelli
The Akku Quintet was founded by drummer and composer Manuel Pasquinelli. Says renown writer Sid Smith, “Best-known for his work in Swiss post-rock minimalist outfit, SONAR, Pasquinelli's writing contains an almost cinematic dimension that encompasses bittersweet moods and moments of unfolding drama.” The band is based in Switzerland, from where they dispense a minimalistic jazz groove to great effect.

Since their first concerts in 2011 the band gained more and more international attention (North-America tour in autumn 2018). Their debut album “Stages of Sleep” was released in May 2013 (Morpheus Records). The quintet then set the different phases of sleep to music. Following their acclaimed 2015 album “Molecules” Akku Quintet released their third record “Aeon” in 2017. In October 2018 the band toured Canada and USA.

Their fourth album “Depart” is the first to be released on Trey Gunn's (King Crimson, Security Project) 7d Media label on…

Release Date: May 1, 2019 Label: Independent Website
If you look up Jonny Lipford on Spotify you will see quite a collection of album releases. In fact, I was quite amazed at how much music this man has out there.

On May 1st Migration will be available. Those who appreciate new age and world music with the flute or a genuine combination of both will appreciate the nine tracks for your listening pleasure.

You will hear Native American flute, Mojave flute, Mayan harmony flute, Irish flute, Persian flute, and Bansuri. That is quite an array of flutes giving each track an identity, sound, and texture that distinguishes itself as a standalone artistic achievement. I do not know any other way to put it.

For Jonny, this is a Migration of sights and sounds from track to track. As the birds fly in their patterns it shows nature taking its yearly course. In this instance, this artist follows his instincts and creates something truly beautiful. I really enjoyed the entire album but with the way it end…

We are very pleased to announce that the UN Singers will perform with Strawbs in the Grand Finale of the band’s 50th Anniversary celebration at the Strand Theater, Lakewood NJ on Saturday April 27, 2019.

The UN Singers are designated by the United Nations as unofficial ambassadors of goodwill who convey a message of peace and tolerance, and a celebration of other cultures and religions, through music.

The UN Singers, a club affiliated to the UN Staff Recreation Council (UNSRC), were formed in 1947. Members of the choir come from all walks of life and from all over the world.

Conductor and musical director: Guillermo Vaisman



Strawbs Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Features two full CDs of previously unreleased demos!
Drum legend Simon Phillips will be releasing a 6-CD box set on April 12th on Phantom Recordings. This truly deluxe set celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Protocol, the powerhouse jazz-rock vehicle for the music of legendary drummer Simon Phillips (Jeff Beck, Toto, The Who, Mike Oldfield, Hiromi). Included are all of the previous Protocol releases (I, II, III & IV), re-mastered for an even better sonic experience. Plus two full CDs of previously unreleased demos, with the embryonic tunes that would later become finished material for the Protocol II, III & IV albums. Protocol 4, included, was nominated for a Grammy in 2018 for Best Contemporary Instrumental Recording.

Phillips himself composed the liner notes of a glorious 24-page booklet with historic photos, providing deep insight into the genesis of the band, the tunes and recording processes. An absolute must-have collector's item for Simon's devotees worldwide!

Pr…