BandFreaks Music News for Today: September 8th, 2005
Today's Indie Music Headlines
+++ Dream To Extremes, Crossover CCM/ Pop Songstress Karli Bonné’s Third Solo Release
+++ The 4th Annual Midatlantic Music Conference Returns to Charlotte, NC
+++ Downloads for Dollars Program Raises Needed Funds
+++ Tim Mainka Spreads Sonic Freedom™ Internationally With Debut CD Release, "Just Give Me Some Time"
+++ Celio Skilz Supports the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Fund
+++ Brides of Destruction On U.S. Tour
Today in the Music Scene
+++ Billy Joel Launches Music Education Initiative
+++ Shopfar.com - Shopping Portal Offers New Way to Get Free, Legal Music Downloads
+++ Podcast Alley, the Premier Podcaster Community, Becomes the Latest Member of the PodShow Podcast Network
+++ Paul McCartney to Release 'Chaos And Creation In The Backyard' Special Edition CD and Bonus DVD
+++ Dashboard Confessional To Play Benefit Concerts For Victims Of Hurricane Katrina
+++ Apple Introduces iTunes 5
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Today in the Indie Music World ...
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Dream To Extremes, Crossover CCM/ Pop Songstress Karli Bonné’s Third Solo Release
(PRWEB) -- Dream To Extremes, the latest self-released title from Christian Contemporary crossover artist and vocalist extraordinaire Karli Bonné, is now available.
The 13 fresh tracks were written by accomplished songstress Bonné and her producer Chris Pati, and in keeping with her previous well-reviewed CD Angel Without Wings, the songs cover a spectrum of styles from sophisticated contemporary pop to dance club floor-fillers. Inspired by a spiritual awakening that resulted following her battle with drugs and alcohol, Bonné's music is energizing, hopeful and, in a feat that can be tough to pull off, manages to do so in a way that doesn't isolate listeners of any spiritual leaning.
The album's first single is “Me,” a hooky, adult-contemporary song in which Bonné's breathy vocals contemplate her own growth with the catchy chorus, “I'm not so predictable/I don't really know it all/I am not invincible/But someday I'll walk through walls.” “Dream to Extremes,” the title track and a soon-to-be self-empowerment anthem, is another standout with its European dance diva vibe and feel-good battle cry: “You'll fulfill all your dreams/So dream to extremes.” Listeners will also find the Latin-influenced “Amore de mi Corazón” which promises “I can weather any storm that comes my way,” and the sparkly, retro '80s “New Ways,” which sounds like what might have happened if Madonna's early pop hits had had some lyrical substance. The album is rounded out with more songs of love, life, and faith sung by a woman fueled by a passion for all three.
New York-based Karli Bonné is a 20-year veteran of the stage, having started out in school plays and rock bands when she was a teenager in Queens. She has fronted over half a dozen bands since, and even found herself singing alongside Kiss' Ace Frehley onstage at New York's China Club. Having survived life-altering addiction problems, this wife and mother has turned back to music full time with great success. Videos for “Answers” and “My Serenade,” both off Angel Without Wings, are in rotation on New York area cable shows Arise and Shine and 30cc. Bonné also acts in local stage productions, and is currently putting together a full live band to hit the club scene and promote Dream to Extremes.
The woman who once had no hope now finds she has faith enough to share, and is driven to helping others benefit from her experience. “No matter who you are, be yourself and no one can stop you!” encourages Bonné. And she seems to be taking her own advice, with another album's worth of material already complete. “I write and finish one song and three more pop into my head. I'm ready for my fifth CD at this point!”
“Excellent songwriting technique [and] a powerfully moving voice, as well.
— Music Dish Network
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The 4th Annual Midatlantic Music Conference Returns to Charlotte, NC
Returning to Charlotte, NC for a 4th consecutive year is the number one destination for music industry education and networking in the Mid-Atlantic States.
(PRWEB) -- The Mid-Atlantic Music Conference continues to be the premier music industry networking and education event in the Mid-Atlantic state’s for 3 years running. The goal of the conference is to focus the national and international music industry and related press on the Mid-Atlantic music market while providing a platform for the areas musicians and artists to gain exposure, be heard and be educated in the business of music.
The event brings together industry executives, artists, musicians, students and other related industry insiders for three days of education, networking and high energy entertainment! Past participants have included executives from major and independent record labels including Sony/BMG, J-Records, Universal, BME, SoSoDef, and Arista as well as film and video game companies such as the Southern Tip Films, The Charlotte Regional Film Commission and GRS Games, makers of the SIMS.
New this year, the conference has added 6 additional performance venues and will showcase more than 100 artists and bands over the three day event. To date, Mid-Atlantic Music Conference showcases have featured over 220 of the top unsigned artists and bands from the US, Canada and around the world. This year's event is sponsored by Sam Ash, The Zippo Hot Tour, Onlinegigs.com, Rule Radio, and Exposure Magazine.
Showcase Venues:
Tremont Music Hall, The Neighborhood Theater, Best Western Charlotte, The V-Lounge, Additional Venues TBD
The event will feature the following elements:
Music Showcase: - Artists and music industry professionals from the Mid-Atlantic region will have the opportunity to perform before national and international music industry executives. To submit for the showcase
Music Conference: - Artists and music industry professionals from the Mid-Atlantic region will have the opportunity to dialogue with and be educated by national and international music industry executives. -
http://www.midatlanticmusic.com/
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Downloads for Dollars Program Raises Needed Funds
Legendary DJ and podcast enthusiast develops program for artists to raise money for charities and notable causes.
(PRWEB) -- "Downloads for Dollars" is a new program which will raise money for charities and notable causes. Designed by DJ COA, it is designed to bring attention and support for those in need.
Starting September 1st, anytime you download the song "From A Window" by Slowmo on iTunes, MSN Music, and other services, thirty cents will go to help raise money for Alec's ABA therapy and school expenses. Many of these costs are not covered by insurance and it is up to the family to pay the bill.
Alec Langston is a sweet four year-old boy diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. 1 in 166 children are now diagnosed with autism, a frustrating disorder hindering normal development of the brain. Autism disorders affect social interaction, sensory processing skills, cognitive functions, and the ability to communicate with others. However, new scientific studies indicate that a combination of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy (recommended by the Surgeon General in the treatment of autism) and promising biomedical therapies can greatly improve the prognosis of autistic children. Alec's family can attest to this, as they have seen substantial improvement since his original diagnosis in the May of 2004. However, current costs for Alec to receive ABA and medical treatments are high, and most of which are not covered by insurance. The Langstons themselves expect to pay more than $20,000 - $30,000 this year in out-of-pocket expenses for Alec's treatment needs, but will do so in light of Alec's impressive improvements.
You may also contribute by purchasing the new album "Hidden Souls 2" at CD Baby .com! Each CD sold will raise two dollars for Alec's expenses. Take part now in this wonderful program which will raise awareness of autism and its effects on families. To learn more about autism, visit us at the links below.
DJ Come of Age
"the gift of music to help those in need"
http://www.walkingwithalec.com/
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Tim Mainka Spreads Sonic Freedom™ Internationally With Debut CD Release, "Just Give Me Some Time"
Tim Mainka, the singer-songwriter, musician, and producer known as Sonic Freedom™, has just released his debut CD , “Just Give Me Some Time,” mastered by Ty Tabor of the band King’s X.
Grand Rapids, MI (PRWEB) September 3, 2005 -- Greater Grand Rapids resident, Tim Mainka, the singer-songwriter, musician, and producer known as Sonic Freedom™, has just released his debut CD, “Just Give Me Some Time.” The album is an independent artist release on the record label, Sonic Freedom Records, and available for purchase at www.JustGiveMeSomeTime.com/prweb.html
The Sonic Freedom™ debut CD “Just Give Me Some Time” is mastered by Ty Tabor of the band King’s X, who honored Tim saying, "Tim, you rule the earth." The celebrated rock trio, King’s X has a worldwide following, 12 official releases, most notable for their 1990 release, “Faith Hope Love” which peaked at 31 on Billboard Top 50.
Aside from international sales, Tim is contacting local record stores for CD distribution. Retailers may qualify for wholesale discount purchases via his website. He will also consider local musical instrument retailers.
Tim Mainka, shares his musical talents as a group and private music teacher. He teaches guitar, bass, uke, drums and percussion in Holland and Greater Grand Rapids. He teaches group classes for TRI-ACE Community Education which serves Grandville, Jenison, and Hudsonville. He is also offering his talents for group and private instruction at the Home School Building in Wyoming, MI. Private lessons may be set up by contacting Sonic Freedom LLC, 616-249-0020.
Fans and industry professionals have taken note of his remarkable talents in his numerous appearances in international song competitions. Curtis Lowell, from MakeAStar.com, has commented on Sonic Freedom™ - Tim Mainka's pioneering sound: "You have a unique sound...there is a lot of invention...the vocals adds a further musical dimension...you have real spirit in your voice...the overall effect is solid."
Industry professional, OrphanEddie from MakeAStar.com, noted in review:
"Your skills are clearly there: you can play multiple instruments, write melodically-catchy songs and sing quite well...the vocals, guitars and bass are all really good technically. The lead guitar solo was really impressive. If you are playing all the instruments I’m really impressed. Usually I can tell if this is the case, but this sounds pretty much like a band. Nice work!"
Some reviewers have compared Tim’s work to the works of Dave Matthews, Lenny Kravitz, Yes, the Raspberries, Jethro Tull, and Rush. Listeners are encouraged to decide for themselves in the best way possible, by listening to the CD in the comfort of their favorite surroundings. Listeners who purchase the collectible 1st edition of the CD will receive 7 bonuses, including custom guitar picks and special mp3s tracks not featured on the CD. Sonic Freedom Records is accepting sales online with major credit cards, checks, money orders, cash, international money orders, e-gold™ and PayPal at www.JustGiveMeSomeTime.com/prweb.html
Tim Mainka wrote, performed and produced all the music--instrumentals, vocals, and lyrics--with the exception of one track, which features the guest artist, Laura Kat (Laura Hollingsworth), who is the lead vocalist, pianist and lyricist performing her original song,"The Light", with Tim's special arrangement of additional vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and orchestral strings.
Tim gave away a free Sonic Freedom™ - Billy Sheehan autographed guitar to celebrate the debut CD release. He intends to give away another rock star autographed guitar in the not too distant future. The entry form will be at his website. Billy Sheehan, Jim Roberts and Bass Player Magazine recognized Tim Mainka in a worldwide scholarship contest for the Bass Institute of Technology (BIT). Billy Sheehan, had this to say: "I enjoyed your playing very much... I'm sure your talents will take you far.” Billy Sheehan’s words ring true in this debut album, “Just Give Me Some Time” which is but one of many milestones in Tim Mainka’s music career.
“Just Give Me Some Time” is a landmark album for defining Posirock. Essentially, Posirock would be like pop/rock, however Posirock music maintains an essential positive vibe in all. Here's one inspiring testimonial Tim received concerning the effects of Sonic Freedom's Posirock: "I was looking for inspirational music with a kick @ss sound-man, you rock! You've got it all. I was at a low point in my life and you lifted me up right out of the trenches of despair." - Kyle W.
To listen to free mp3 downloads, purchase the collectible 1st edition CD, “Just Give Me Some Time,” and find more exciting news and information, visit: www.JustGiveMeSomeTime.com/prweb.html or www.SonicFreedom.com/PRweb.html
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Celio Skilz Supports the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Fund
Celio Skilz storms up the charts while donating proceeds to victims of Hurricane Katrina.
(PRWEB) -- Celio Skilz has committed to giving his portion of the proceeds from his debut album, "The Cost of Being Me" to the Red Cross.
For $10, customers can purchase Celio's CD. $6 of each CD sold goes directly to the Red Cross. The CD package includes a Limited Edition Clear Cover and personally autographed CD.
C. Skilz, a rap artist from California, has managed to create a buzz with his critically acclaimed debut album, “The Cost of Being Me.” His blend of bi-coastal beats mixed with straight forward, witty lyrics has allowed his fans to identify with him.
With subject matters on “The Cost of Being Me” jumping from facing ones inner demons (on “Self Defense”), to addressing fools ruining parties by getting too drunk (on “F*ck the Party Up”), the themes are what everyday folks deal with. But don’t think that normality makes him slouch on lyrics. Celio Skilz’s last name speaks for itself on “They’ve Been Waiting. With “She Used to Love Me,” C. Skilz allows Hip-Hop, in feminine form, to vent her frustration about her so-called fans, in an answer to Common’s “I Used to Love H.E.R.“ This album has some of the best beats I’ve ever done,” says DJ Rek, who produced all but one track on the possible classic. ”We tried to not make any fillers. “
Celio Skilz originally started out as a ghostwriter in the late ‘80’s for his twin brothers, while in a group called DTC (DUBB TRUBB CREW). He now performs with local sensations such as, the ICONS, K CEE Legendary, and Regg Henny. He has participated in opening up for major acts in his San Diego hometown, including Mos Def, LL COOL J, Little Brother, and KRS ONE. CSkilz appears on the Dame Hustle/MixxNuttz mixtape series. He has worked internationally with artists such as Universal Records artist, PeeZee. He has further credits through helping fellow rappers with marketing, managing, and grooming.
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Brides of Destruction On U.S. Tour
HEADING OUT ON THE ‘MOTOR-HOMEY’ TOUR With NATIONAL RECORDING ARTIST ADEMA
(PRWEB) -- BOD will be on tour supporting their new album RUNAWAY BRIDES releasing September 27th on Shrapnel Records. Their first single White Trash is soon to hit the airwaves. "White Trash" is exactly what it sounds like. "The pot calls the kettle black ...money can’t buy class ...but in LA it’s all for free all you need is a casting couch, a bloody scalpel and a sugar daddy," recites LeGrande. It pays homage to all the trailer-park-style culture and the people that try to leave them. From there the Brides will discharge a slew of slamming songs on the audience like "Criminal." "Deadman's Ruin," and "Lords of the Mind." "This is the record we always wanted to make," states Tracii Guns. "It has a great blend of modern rock heaviness with retro sounds and styles. It is the perfect ‘Brides’ record of today."
ADEMA will be coming off their own headlining tour to join the Brides on a tour of debauchery in support of their latest album release PLANETS. Standout tracks include: the first single, "Tornado," title track, "Planets," a ballad, "Rise Above"; rocker "Bad Triangle", featuring a guest vocal appearance by Jujitsu master Ralek Gracie, aka Rio Life, a member of the world-renowned Gracie Family (and friend of Adema drummer Kris Kohls, himself an avid Jujitsu trainer); and fierce closer, "Vikraphone". Yet, the truth is, all the tracks on "Planets" (count them, 16!... plus one extra surprise!) are expertly-crafted, hook-laden songs; there is not a miss among them.
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Today in the Entertainment World ...
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Billy Joel Launches Music Education Initiative
The Billy Joel Endowment Fund To Provide Seed Money, Scholarships & Endowments To A Variety Of East Coast Colleges, Universities & Music Schools
NEW YORK, /PRNewswire/ -- As part of his long-term commitment to music education, Billy Joel has recently launched an ongoing initiative to provide gifts of seed money, musical scholarships, and endowments to a variety of East Coast colleges, universities, and music schools. Awards, scholarships and endowments granted by the Billy Joel Endowment Fund will be announced at the discretion of the individual institutions.
A longtime advocate for music education, Joel first began holding "master class" sessions on college campuses more than 20 years ago, giving sessions at colleges across the country and around the world. In addition, he has held classes as a benefit for the STAR Foundation (Standing for Truth About Radiation) and to establish the Rosalind Joel Scholarship for the Performing Arts at City College in New York City.
Having sold more than 100 million records over the past quarter century, Billy Joel ranks as one of most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in the world. He has had 33 Top 40 hits and 23 Grammy nominations since signing his first solo recording contract in 1972. Joel entered the charts for the first time in 1974 with his signature "Piano Man" single and album. "Fantasies & Delusions - Music for Solo Piano," an album of Billy Joel's classical piano pieces released in October 2001, spent 18 weeks at #1 on the Top Classical Albums chart. MOVIN' OUT, Broadway's dance musical conceived, choreographed and directed by Twyla Tharp and based on 30 classic songs by Billy Joel, opened on Broadway to critical and popular acclaim. In 2003, Billy Joel won his first Tony Award for Best Orchestrations.
Joel's Face To Face Tours with Sir Elton John broke box office records around the world. Billboard heralded "Face To Face" as "...the most successful touring package of all time." In 1990, he was presented with a Grammy Legend Award. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1992, Joel was presented with the Johnny Mercer Award, the organization's highest honor, in 2001. In 1999 he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and has received the Recording Industry Association of America Diamond Award.
Joel has earned three Awards For Cable Excellence and has received numerous ASCAP and BMI awards including the ASCAP Founders Award and the BMI Career Achievement Award and, in 1994, was given the 1994 Billboard Century Award. Among his many other awards and honors, Billy Joel has been given a Doctor of Humane Letters from Fairfield University (1991), a Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music (1993), and a Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Hofstra University (1997) and a Doctor of Music from Southampton College (2000). For his accomplishments as a musician and as a humanitarian, Billy Joel was honored as the 2002 MusiCares Person Of The Year by the MusiCares Foundation and the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences.
On September 20, 2004, Billy Joel received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, adding a new milestone to his extraordinary career.
http://www.billyjoel.com/
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Shopfar.com - Shopping Portal Offers New Way to Get Free, Legal Music Downloads
LONDON, September 8/PRNewswire/ -- Shopfar.com is the first shopping portal to reward its users with free, legal music downloads, thanks to a collaboration between Karma Collective Ltd. and Apple's iTunes Music Store, the world's largest and most popular legal music download centre.
Shopfar.com users automatically earn free iTunes song codes as they shop on any of the portal's hundreds of different shopping sites, which include Expedia, Figleaves, eBay, Boots and HMV.
These song codes can be redeemed for music downloads at Apple's iTunes Music Store from a choice of over 1.2 million songs from both major and independent labels (available for PC and Mac). There is no limit to the number of songs that can be earned through Shopfar.com. And by taking advantage of the Shopfar Invitation Programme, users can greatly increase their earnings every month by receiving one song for every two earned by an unlimited number of invited friends.
Shopfar.com could not launch at a better time. The spectacular rise of online consumerism has meant that Internet shopping and music downloading stories continue to sweep the headlines as their popularity increases.
Thanks to the success of the iPod and the user-friendliness of Apple's iTunes Music Store, the market for music downloads has skyrocketed. In fact, over just the last year legal music downloads rose a staggering 900%(i). Digital tracks, which have had a separate chart since September 2004, have recently been included in the traditional Top 40 Singles Chart and already account for half of the combined sales.
While legal downloading is on the rise, the prevalence of illegal music file-sharing is still a major concern. The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) launched their bid to clamp down on illegal downloading in October 2004 and have already successfully prosecuted a number of illegal file-sharers. Nevertheless, the latest reports continue to show an increase in online piracy with an estimated 900 million tracks still available on file-sharing networks(i).
Until now, music downloads were either free or legal. With Shopfar.com they're both.
http://www.shopfar.com
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Podcast Alley, the Premier Podcaster Community, Becomes the Latest Member of the PodShow Podcast Network
PodShow's Podcast Alley Team Relocates to PodShow Headquarters, First 30 Days Set Community Growth Milestones
SAN FRANCISCO,/PRNewswire/ -- PodShow, Inc., the premier network in podcasting, today announced that Podcast Alley(TM) (www.podcastalley.com), the number one online podcast community, has joined the PodShow(TM) family. The Company also announced that during its first 30 days Podcast Alley has surpassed key milestones in membership, podcast episodes, listeners and articles contributed on the site. In early August of 2005, Podcast Alley exploded to over 5000+ forum members, 7000+ podcast programs, 100,000+ podcast episodes tracked and 25,000+ articles contributed. According to management, many millions of podcast episodes are now finding their way to millions of listeners through Podcast Alley, firmly placing Podcast Alley at the epicenter of the podcast phenomenon.
First available as a beta forum site in early 2005, Podcast Alley originally provided a community focused forum, a directory and a user-driven knowledge base for all things podcasting related. More recently, Podcast Alley has successfully expanded to include tips from leading podcasters, reviews of podcast production software, podcast reviews, podcasting's most coveted Top 10 Podcast list, online podcaster discussions and member-contributed articles. As part of the acquisition, the Podcast Alley team has relocated from Nashville to San Francisco where PodShow has established corporate headquarters.
Podcast Alley's recent explosive growth is due in part to its relationship with PodShow. Exposure was initially driven by podcaster word-of-mouth. Through a steady stream of innovation, Podcast Alley has emerged as the community for the podcasting industry, and now adds hundreds of podcast submissions on a regular basis to its list of programming. As part of the PodShow Network, Podcast Alley has added many features to service podcasters, providing additional editorial insight, voting and feedback, and is enabling a constantly increasing fan base to discover and enjoy the best in podcasting.
"Podcast Alley is something that can not be architected ... it is proof of the adage that a community must be built by its members," said Ron Bloom, PodShow co-founder and CEO. "Chris is already proving himself a great addition to PodShow, and this is just the beginning. I think the entire community of podcasters and listeners will be amazed at where we are going, and we look forward to having more innovators and leaders join our ranks."
Podcasting is the fastest growing area in new media. Introduced less than a year ago by PodShow co founder Adam Curry (the PodFather), industry analysts estimate that podcast listenership was over 6 million people in April, and that number is increasing dramatically.
"Almost since the beginning of podcasting, I have watched Chris and Podcast Alley. He has been a great resource for the entire industry and we are delighted to have him in the family," said Curry. "We have been successful in working with Chris to take Podcast Alley to the next level and are blown away by the attention the site is receiving. We now look forward to adding new features and functionality that will continue to keep Podcast Alley at the forefront of the podcasting revolution, bringing podcasters and listeners even closer together."
"I built the beta Podcast Alley site while my wife drove us from Chicago to Nashville," said PodShow's Podcast Alley founder, Chris McIntyre. "The first version of the site was actually up-loaded in a Starbucks. And, after just a few days, this outspoken community of podcasters found Podcast Alley and began to occupy my every waking hour. Since joining PodShow, I'm totally amazed at how far we've come, and I'm really looking forward to where we are going."
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Paul McCartney to Release 'Chaos And Creation In The Backyard' Special Edition CD and Bonus DVD
In-Stores September 13th 2005
LOS ANGELES, /PRNewswire/ -- Paul McCartney will release a Special Edition CD/DVD of his soon to be released new studio album 'Chaos And Creation In The Backyard.' The Special Edition, due in-stores on Tuesday, September 13th, will include a bonus DVD packed with exclusive, never-before-seen behind the scenes footage, as well as special intimate performances of music from the new album.
Filmed in Los Angeles and London, the special DVD gives a rare and unprecedented look inside the mind of one of the world's most prolific and renown songwriters. It captures McCartney working alongside producer Nigel Godrich in a way that has never been seen, as they collaborate to make McCartney's 20th studio album.
The main feature, 'Between Chaos And Creation,' is a 30-minute documentary style film that tracks McCartney's creative journey making of the new album. It takes the viewer song by song, through the album, and demonstrates his unparalleled song-writing skills and musical versatility.
DVD extras also include special performances of album tracks, the new single, 'Fine Line,' as well as 'How Kind Of You.' In addition, there is an art feature entitled 'Line Art,' with fine artist Brian Clarke. It's a series of sketches put to music from the new album.
'Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard' is a return to the basics for McCartney. The album successfully fuses his undeniable song writing talents with his unparalleled musicianship. In fact, McCartney is credited with playing the majority of the instruments on the album, which is somewhat reminiscent of "McCartney" (1970) when he was credited with playing all of the instruments. They include the drums, guitar, bass, keyboards, as well as many of the less traditional instruments such as block flute, harmonium and flugelhorn.
'Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard' is a mix of up-tempo piano driven McCartney instant classics such as 'Fine Line' and 'Promise To You Girl' and more introspective darker tracks such as 'At The Mercy,' 'Too Much Rain' and 'Riding To Vanity Fair.' One of the many highlights is a track entitled, 'Jenny Wren,' which Paul describes as "daughter of Blackbird," as well as 'Follow Me,' which McCartney debuted at The Glastonbury Festival, while on his '04 Summer European Tour.
Paul McCartney is currently preparing for his sold out 'US' tour of North America, which kicks off on September 16th in Miami.
For more Paul McCartney news and information go to www.paulmccartney.com
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Dashboard Confessional To Play Benefit Concerts For Victims Of Hurricane Katrina
NEW YORK, /PRNewswire/ -- Dashboard Confessional will take time between dates on their tour with U2 to play several concerts benefiting survivors of Hurricane Katrina.
"The suffering victims faced during the hurricane and continue to endure in the aftermath is enormous. I hope people will contribute in whatever way they can to help those affected by this tragedy," says frontman Chris Carrabba.
The goal is to raise half a million dollars through ticket and merchandise sales, with 100% of the proceeds to be donated to charities assisting the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The dates and venues are as follows:
September 18 Toronto - The Phoenix
September 19 Chicago - House of Blues
September 28 Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
In addition, Dashboard will take part in "ReAct Now: Music & Relief," a special to raise funds for the victims set to air commercial-free simultaneously across music networks MTV, VH1, CMT, MTV2, VH1 Classic, and mtvU on Saturday, September 10. Dashboard Confessional joins a diverse array of artists working to generate donations and volunteerism, including The Rolling Stones, Neil Young, Kanye West, Sheryl Crow, Paul McCartney, Trent Reznor, Green Day, John Mayer and Alicia Keys.
A native of Boca Rotan, Florida, Carrabba feels an affinity toward those in Gulf area losing lives, family, pets and possessions and encourages all to give what they can to help the abate suffering in the aftermath.
www.redcross.org
www.hurricanehousing.org
www.salvationarmyusa.org/USNSAHome.htm
www.teamrescueone.com
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Apple Introduces iTunes 5
iTunes Music Store Catalog Tops Two Million Songs
SAN FRANCISCO, /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Apple(R) today announced iTunes(R) 5, bringing new features and a refined look to the world's most popular digital music jukebox and online music store. iTunes 5 includes a new Search Bar to make it even easier for users to find what they're searching for; the ability to organize playlists into folders; Smart Shuffle, which lets the user change the "randomness" of shuffled songs; and the ability for Windows users to automatically sync contacts and calendars from Outlook onto their iPods. The iTunes Music Store has also added parental controls and album reviews, and now features a catalog of over two million songs, making it the largest online music catalog in the world.
"iTunes is widely regarded as the best jukebox, with the world's most popular online music store built right in," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We are constantly improving iTunes with new features like Podcasting and better searching because we love music ourselves and want to surprise and delight music fans around the world."
iTunes 5's new Search Bar helps users find exactly what they are looking for within the catalog of two million songs, 15,000 Podcasts and 10,000 audiobooks on the iTunes Music Store, plus everything in their own iTunes music library. iTunes and the iTunes Music Store have a new refined look, as well as parental controls allowing parents to determine which music and Podcasts their children can access on the iTunes Music Store. Users can now do even more with playlists, including the ability to organize them into folders and have greater control over random playback with the new Smart Shuffle feature. Windows iPod users can now use iTunes to automatically sync calendars with Outlook or contacts with Outlook or Outlook Express.
The iTunes Music Store now features over 1,000 album reviews from Apple's team of music experts. The reviews cover some of the best albums over the past 50 years, including current hits from Coldplay, Kanye West and Yo-Yo Ma, as well as classic artists such as Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash and Frank Sinatra.
With Apple's legendary ease of use, pioneering features such as integrated Podcasting support, iMix playlist sharing, seamless integration with iPod and groundbreaking personal use rights, the iTunes Music Store is the best way for Mac(R) and PC users to legally discover, purchase and download music online. The iTunes Music Store features more than two million songs from the major music companies and over 1,000 independent record labels, 10,000 audiobooks, gift certificates and exclusive music not found anywhere else online.
Pricing & Availability
iTunes 5 for Mac and Windows includes the iTunes Music Store and is available as a free download immediately from www.apple.com/itunes. Purchase and download of songs from the iTunes Music Store for Mac or Windows requires a valid credit card with a billing address in the country of purchase.
http://www.apple.com/
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