Valdez

Cell 15 / Valdez (June 24, 2017)

May 9, 2017 by NJProghouse

Cell 15 / Valdez
https://cell15.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/valdezrock/
when: Saturday, June 24, 2017 | 1:00PM Doors | 2:00PM Show
where: Roxy & Dukes | 745 Bound Brook Rd, Dunellen, NJ (map)
Cost: Online Presale $20.00
Walk ups day of show $25 (Cash Only) Beginning at 1PM
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Cell 15

https://cell15.com/

Cell15 is the brainchild of Robert Scott Richardson. In 2011, Robert had decided he wanted to write the progressive rock style that he loved. Raised on the great prog of the past, his love for King Crimson, Gentle Giant, Yes, Genesis and Pink Floyd influenced this musical decision. Twenty years of recovery had given him the subject matter, the advantage of owning his own recording studio gave him the place to work, and Cell15 was born. The idea of a concept album to tell the story of what happened twenty years ago to present served as the guide for where the music would go. This is the first time I had the lyrics in mind before the music was written. I had to keep the focus on the story being told, Robert said. The CD titled Chapter One had been released September 2014.

The debut release was well received internationally. Prog Rock radio stations were adding tracks to their playlists and an award was given as Debut Album of the Year on Prog Rock.com. In a review from House of Prog.com affiliate Rob Rutz, Rob writes: From the first recoil of the complex kit’s snare drum, followed by locomotive-strength symphonic keys, listeners are propelled like shot in a sling into Cell15’s powerful breakthrough debut album, “Chapter One.” This is a driving progressive rock concept album that’s befitting of the most-capable, well-powered sound system. Cell15’s Chapter One album goes beyond masterful poly-rhythmic drums, full-bodied keyboards and driving bass, though. It’s one hell of a story that portrays a dark life, capture and prison time, followed by twists of realization, understanding and an epic light show conclusion that begs for cathedral acoustics. Listeners are strapped into this soulfully sung script that was penned over a 20-year timeframe. Arranged and performed by veteran music artist Robert Richardson, Cell15 will remind listeners of Transatlantic, Genesis and IQ, but its classic rock influences and meaningful vocals would also entice any Kansas or Queen fan.

2015 was the year of forming the full time band to promote Cell15. After many auditions, a lineup of accomplished musicians was established. Introducing Shane Jones on guitar, Dan MacDonald on bass and Kevin Thomas on drums, a musical bond was formed to pursue recording more progressive rock music with a killer show sure to excite any audience.

Prog Rock fans may be few but they are the most loyal and appreciative group of people who love the complexities of composition. Prog is the Classical music of today and will still be loved long after Pop music is forgotten.

Valdez

https://www.facebook.com/valdezrock/

Valdez is a four piece band of musicians from Philadelphia, with a passion for good songwriting and leaping the fences between genres. The group comprises of British frontman Simon Godfrey (ex-Tinyfish), who moved from the UK to the USA in 2014, Echolyn bassist Tom Hyatt, Cold Blue Electric keyboard player Joe Cardillo and ex- Stone Jack Baller drummer Scott Miller.

Tom and Simon met by chance at a comedy club in Philly and got on so well, decided to jam the following evening at an open mic night. The duo were an instant hit with the crowd and as they left the stage, they agreed to form a band that would go on to become Valdez.

For us, the song comes before absolutely everything else. Says Simon. It doesnt matter if its a short song, a long song or mad, complex one. As long as its good, well grab it with both hands and spin it until were all dizzy. Chemistry and humor plays a big part in the bands identity. We take the music seriously, not ourselves. Says Tom. Weve spent years trying to look serious for photo shoots but its not really who we are. Were naturally happy people and we love what we do as a musical unit. We give it 100% every time we hit the stage because we understand that this is the 21st century so lets not kid ourselves, we know were up against Netflix and internet porno. Those are tough opponents, so we always go that extra mile to give people a show they will never forget.

Its not a supergroup. says drummer Scott Miller Were just four guys repaying our debt to society like the parole ocer told us to.

Their debut album, entitled This (referring to the world of wonder right in front of us which we forget, simply because we see it every day) is released by maverick independent label, Bad Elephant Music, headed up by David Elliott, one of the godfathers of the UK musical underground. The album was produced by Echolyn songwriter and Grey Eye Glances guitarist, Brett Kull, a legendary figure on the American east coast music scene and the album artwork was created by world famous DC Comics artist, Mark Buckingham.

Not everyone gets such royal support for their debut release but everyone involved believes there is something special about Valdez, the songs they write and the performances they give.

Come see Valdez for yourself and find out why.

IZZ / Valdez: [April 29, 2016]

March 22, 2016 by NJProghouse

who: IZZ | Valdez
http://izznet.com | https://www.facebook.com/simon.godfrey.980
when: Friday, April 29, 2016 | 8:00PM Show | 7:30PM Doors
where: Roxy & Dukes | 745 Bound Brook Rd, Dunellen, NJ (map)
Cost: Online Presale $22 ($20 plus $2 processing )
Walk ups day of show $30 (Cash Only) Beginning at 7:30PM

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

IZZ

http://izznet.com

“Without question, one of the brightest lights on the American progressive/art rock scene, IZZ melds classic and modern prog influences, strong melodies, and stirring guitar and synthesizer solos into a familiar yet refreshing musical stew” – NEARfest (www.nearfest.com).

IZZ was formed under the musical vision of brothers Tom and John Galgano. In 1996, Tom brought together fellow Manhattanville College classmates — all musically trained — to write, arrange and perform original music.

In addition to Tom (keys and vocals) and John (guitar/bass), IZZ’s first lineup included Greg DiMiceli (drums), Danielle Altieri (vocals), Michele Salustri (vocals) and Brian Coralian (drums) and Phil Gaita (bass/guitar). Together they wrote and released Sliver of a Sun in 1999.

After Danielle, Michele and Phil left the band to pursue other ventures, IZZ continued to write new material and performed intensely in and around New York City between 1999-2002. During this time, Paul Bremner joined the band and brought new elements that helped define the band’s signature sound.

In 2002, IZZ released I Move, their second studio album, to rave reviews and was invited to play at an increasing number of national music festivals, including Progday 2002 in North Carolina and Progwest in Southern California.

Vocalists Anmarie Byrnes and Laura Meade became more involved during the completion of Ampersand, Volume 1, which was released in 2004, and followed by a live performance at Rosfest 2004.

The following year, IZZ completed My River Flows, which was released in 2005. The album was toured at numerous festivals in the American progressive/art rock circuit including festival stalwarts Calprog 2005, 2006 and 2008 and the North East Art Rock Festival (NEARFest 2007).

After an electrifying NEARFest performance, IZZ released their first full-length live album titled IZZ Live at NEARFes” in late 2007.

Released in 2009, The Darkened Room quickly became a favorite among IZZ fans for the intensity and uniqueness of the compositions and performances. The tracks “Can’t Feel the Earth, Part I” and “Can’t Feel the Earth, Part II” in particular display the band’s prowess for melding intricate playing and memorable melodies. In true innovative form IZZ also produced several shorter, concise songs such as “Ticking Away,” “Regret,” and “The Message.” The penultimate piece on the album, “23 Minutes of Tragedy” has become one of IZZ’s most requested live songs as its compelling emotional and dramatic style captures the audience from the first acoustic guitar notes.

Between 2010-2014, IZZ continued to perform live, including three times at the Terra Incognita Festival in Quebec City, Canada. In 2011, IZZ released their first live DVD, IZZ Live featuring performances from NEARFest 2007 and clips from ProgWest (2002).

In 2012, work was completed on Crush of Night. For the Crush of Night album, IZZ had the distinct pleasure of recruiting former Gentle Giant and current 3 Friends guitarist, Gary Green. Gary added his unique playing on two songs. The track “Words and Miracles” includes classic Gary Green guitar playing as well as some backing vocals by Green. The merging of the IZZ sound with this progressive rock guitar idol provided a unique listening experience for IZZ and Gentle Giant fans alike. Tracks such as “Solid Ground” and “You’ve Got a Time” instantly became a mainstay of the IZZ live catalog while the epic Crush of Night suite which spans over 20 minutes of the album, adds to the IZZ canon of adventurous and melodic music.

In 2015, IZZ releasd its 6th full length studio album, Everlasting Instant, which also serves as the final album of the trilogy. The album received critical acclaim throughout the prog rock world. Classic Rock Revisted notes: “It is wonderful to be captivated by music that actually challenges the listener. This album makes one pay attention and it demands multiple listens, repaying the listener with something new and fresh each time the music is played.”

IZZ guitarist Paul Bremner is set to release his solo album in 2016 which features all the members of IZZ.

Valdez

https://www.facebook.com/simon.godfrey.980

Valdez is an acoustic/electric band from Philadelphia, comprising UK singer/songwriter Simon Godfrey, Echolyn bassist Tom Hyatt, and Joe Cardillo, keyboard player for jazz-rock fusionists Cold Blue Electric.

The group came together as part of series of informal get-togethers at Simon’s Duckland Studios in Philadelphia. The chemistry proved so good, the three decided to form a band and named it Valdez after a ’70s western movie Joe had liked.

Simon Godfrey had fronted the UK band Tinyfish for 5 years before moving from the UK to live and work full time in the US. In those first weeks he met Echolyn bassist Tom Hyatt, during a night out at a Philly comedy club.

“We hit it off immediately” said Tom. “Having a shared sense of humor goes a long way when it comes to creating good music.”

“After that night, Tom and I would get together Thursday evenings just to play songs.” added Simon “When you do as much laughing as you do playing, you know in your heart there is a special chemistry at work.”

In January of 2015 Tom suggested keyboard player Joe Cardillo join in on the sessions. The results we’re immediate. “It was if I we had been playing together for years. The way the three of us locked in with each other’s playing was uncanny.” said Simon. Joe has spent the better part of his life playing keys in a wide variety of bands, performing classics and original music throughout the tri-state area.

In 2016 the band was joined by drummer Scott Miller

The four are currently writing material as Valdez for a release later in the year.

Ray Weston | Red | Valdez | Pluck & Rail [July 18, 2015]

June 11, 2015 by NJProghouse

An All-Star Acoustic Evening at NJProghouse!

•Ray Weston (of echolyn)
•Red (featuring Karl Eisenhart of Pinnacle)
•Valdez (featuring Simon Godfrey of Tinyfish and Tom Hyatt and Paul Ramsey of echolyn)
•Pluck and Rail (featuring Andy Sussman of Frogg Cafe)

when: Saturday, July 18, 2015 | 7:00PM Show | 6:00PM Doors
where: Roxy & Dukes | 745 Bound Brook Rd, Dunellen, NJ (map)
Cost: Online Presale $22(includes $2 processing fee)
Walk-ups Day of Show $30 (Cash Only) Beginning at 6:00PM

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Ray Weston

http://echolyn.com

Ray Weston has been performing live since he was fifteen, and has spent the last twenty-five years performing with the progressive rock group echolyn. Ray’s contributions have been mostly through composition of words and melodies, often depicting dark life events and pairing them with sweet melodies, weaving stories that explore these experiences.

Ray’s growth with echolyn continues to develop and redefine a compositional style best described as melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, and dynamic—true progressive rock. Defying categorization while achieving critical acclaim from around the globe, echolyn continues to bend the ears of the world’s listeners. The seeds of echolyn were sown in the late 1980s when Ray, Brett Kull, and Paul Ramsey played in a cover band named Narcissus. A year later, Christopher Buzby joined Kull and Ramsey to form echolyn, a band that made the conscious decision to create entirely original music, and they began recording their eponymous CD echolyn in 1990. Echolyn was a welcome breath of fresh air in that generally lean time for progressive music.

Red

http://www.redacoustic.com

The Acoustic Power Duo

The history of RED goes back to the summer of 1997, when Karl Eisenhart (Pinnacle, Twist of Fate) and Chris Michels (Apple Jack, Copper Penny) both found themselves “between bands” and tired of playing the same set of cover tunes that it seemed every cover band ended up doing. They started out as a three piece rock band with a fairly eclectic set list ranging from Wang Chung to Jethro Tull, but persistent drummer problems forced them to re-evaluate the band’s future before they even booked their first show. Chris’s abilities on multiple instruments lent themselves to a more acoustic-oriented project, so the “duo” era of RED was born.

Because of the unusual instrumentation–in those days including mandolin, violin, electric bass, acoustic guitar, electric guitar and guitar synthesizer—it was practically impossible to stay true to the arrangements of most of the cover songs they did, so they just stopped trying. Most songs were rebuilt from the ground up to suit the sound of the group. This turned out to be an extremely freeing approach to music and also great research and development for writing originals.

Karl and Chris quickly realized that the songs that seemed to resonate with the audience the best were the more stripped down/strictly acoustic numbers, so a great deal of excess instrumentation and amplification was shed and a smaller, more nimble version of the band emerged. This new version of the group recorded a CD called Oracle in 2001. Long out of print, it is now a collector’s item treasured by literally tens of people.

In 2006, RED was hired as the house band at Bear Creek Mountain Resort. This meant that they were playing in the same venue weekly and necessitated a much more varied set list. Within a year, the list of cover songs they played (still ranging from Wang Chung to Jethro Tull and beyond) had grown to well over 100 songs, and originals were developing fast. The group could now play three full nights without ever repeating a song.

Around this time, it was discovered that percussion is important, and since then a host of brilliant drummers have played with the band when time and space allow. Ian Frey (F.C.C., Sunshine Symphony), Moe Jerant (The Large Flower Heads) and Dave Parfitt (everybody) now all make regular appearances with the world’s most over-staffed duo.

In 2011, their second album, Another Sun, marked the beginning of another phase in the development of the band. Applying the reverse of the irreverent approach used in learning cover songs, they took the opportunity to realize full-band arrangements of many of the songs that they had written as an acoustic ensemble. These originals take lyrical inspiration from such diverse origins as Dr. Who and Poet Laureate Robert Penn Warren and musical inspiration from practically everywhere. Two of the more obscure cover songs from the RED live set round out the album. “Silver” was written by John Wesley (Porcupine Tree) and “Dust” was written by Tony Carey (Rainbow, Planet P Project). Not wanting to say anything as self-satisfying and snooty as “genre-defying,” the music is best described as “progressive acoustic.”

Valdez

“We hit it off immediately” said Tom. “Having a shared sense of humor goes a long way when it comes to creating good music.”

In January of this year Tom suggested keyboard player Joe Cardillo join in on the sessions. The results we’re immediate. “It was if I we had been playing together for years. The way the three of us locked in with each other’s playing was uncanny.” said Simon. Joe has spent the better part of his life playing keys in a wide variety of bands, performing classics and original music throughout the tri-state area.

The three are currently writing material as Valdez for a release later in the year.

Pluck and Rail

https://www.facebook.com/pluckandrail

Pluck and Rail is the acoustic intersection of Andrew Sussman of the prog-rock heavyweights, Frogg Café, and George Gierer of the folkabilly band South County. Drawing from the deep well of American music, Pluck and Rail blends together gritty songwriting, tight vocal melodies and soaring cello runs to craft unique sound. Bitter and sweet, pleasure and pain, Pluck and Rail.