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Ivory Productions, LLC Sleeper Cell (The Band) Primoris / In Groove / Universal Music Group Media / Press Release Website New Release Everyone's a Victim    Sleeper Cell       Bowling Green, OH   About Sleeper Cell  –    Hailing from the hot bed of rock, the Midwestern state of Ohio, Sleeper Cell is an old school hard rock band with hints of metal and a uniquely modern twist.  The 5 man act formed in 2000 boasts a huge fan base with all of their shows selling out consistently.  Their hard driving rhythms, melodic bass lines, and solid drumming, all work to push the intensely pungent and highly lyrical vocals.  The band’s opulent sound is derived from their “democratic” approach to the songwriting process.  Each song is a mutually composed composition with each member having an equal percentage share in the piece.  Rhythm Guitarist Andy Shedron puts it bluntly “There’s no question that each band member’s individual contribution to the songs makes for a far more interesting and zenith climax”.  Composed of some of Ohio’s top musicians, the band’s line up consists of Mark Smith pounding out the lead vocals, Andy Shedron on rhythm guitar, Les Paul (Retsel) Adams Jr. on lead guitar, Rob Leo on bass, and Jason Parritt on drums.  This combination of incredibly talented musicians has molded themselves into an incredibly tight performing band putting on a show that is not soon forgotten by their fans.  In 2008 their performance at Woodshock, a major music festival in Southern Ohio where they shared the stage with Filter and Bobaflex, left 3500 fans spellbound.  They have also shared stages with other national acts such as Sevendust, Static X, Days of the New, Nonpoint, Dope, Six Feet Under, Flaw, Mushroomhead, and In This Moment.  Sighting influences like Metallica, Disturbed, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Pantera, and Slayer, Sleeper Cell is the real deal and is here to stay. The band released the EP “Anti-Rust” in 2005 independently then in early 2008 were signed to a record deal with Primoris/Ingroove Records.  The label is distributed nationally by UMG (The Universal Music Group).  Since signing to the label, Sleeper Cell has released the single “Momma Said Knock You Out” in 2008, and “Black” featuring DJ Lyte-N-Rod which reached #13 on Billboard’s Hot singles Chart in November of 2009.  “We believe the new version of “Black” which will be part of our new album - Everyone’s a Victim is even heavier and stronger” states Les Adams the bands lead guitarist.   Their new album, and freshman full length “Everyone’s a Victim” is in its final stages of mixing and mastering and is due to drop in the spring of 2010.  The band is also experiencing a successful video run for their performance in the music video for “Black”.  The video has enjoyed rotation on Fuse, MTV, VH1, Rolling Stone, AOL Music, and Yahoo Entertainment among other popular music video media outlets. Sleeper Cell is gaining serious momentum and they are proving to be extremely serious in their quest to the top.  They have recently engaged Allure Artist Management, Inc. and Chipster P/R to spearhead a national marketing and public relations campaign for 2010. “With the engagement of these two music industry heavy hitters, we believe that we have finally assembled the ultimate dream team and have fulfilled the last step in our quest for maximum exposure and ultimate success in 2010”, stated guitarist Shedron.  Keep your eyes and ears open for this remarkable act – They’re coming your way in 2010.  For more information on Sleeper Cell you can visit their website at www.myspace.com/sleepercellrock Management & Booking: Ken Cavalier Allure Media Entertainment, Inc. 1.888.242.9331  x105 www.allureartists.com Public Relations & Media Concerns: Chip Ruggieri Chipster P/R, Inc. www.chipsterpr.com       Maddam Ink Produced by David Ivory Media / Press Release Website ............................................................    Maddam Ink      Allentown, PA   Hard Driving Riffs, Big Catchy Hooks, and Impassioned Stage Antics, are only the tip of the iceberg in an attempt to describe the wildly popular Allentown, Pennsylvania based alternative rock outfit Maddam Ink.  The band, formed in 2004 by lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and songwriter Adam Burke, is making considerable ground in their quest to the top.    While the act sights influences from a variety of classic and hard rock bands including Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd, Led Zeplin, and Jimi Hendrix, there is one fact that remains steady' their sound is a one of a kind, totally unique project' Modern Rock at its indefinable best. Their radio friendly songs span many styles and can easily share a spin list with the likes of Breaking Benjamin, Incubus, Three Days Grace, Stone Temple Pilots, and Pearl Jam, just to name a few. While Burke is the group’s undisputed leader and front man, he is joined in the band by three other rock steady musicians, lead guitarist and back vocalist Matt Scott, bassist and back vocalist Steve Beneke, and Kyle Young on drums.  The trio provides the killer rhythm section driving Burkes’ powerful, red hot lead vocals. While the major majority of the songwriting is done by rhythm guitarist Adam Burke, the band’s lead guitarist Matt Scott has been known to devise a few clever catchy riffs of his own, which have turned into full songs and become part of the bands repertoire.  “The songs I write”, states Burke, “are done primarily on the acoustic guitar.  I used to play it all the time and I’m very comfortable with it in the songwriting process.   Since the inception of the band, they have performed many high profile venue gigs, concerts, and festivals.  In 2007 they shared the stage and an audience of 50,000 fans, with Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, and Shadows Fall, on the “Heaven and Hell Tour / LocoFest at The Tweeter Center in Manchester, NH.  The band, no stranger to the big stage, has also supported many other national acts such as Fuel, NonPoint, Alien Ant Farm, Eve 6, Days of the New, Sound the Alarm, and many others.   In 2006 the band recorded and independently released their self-titled debut full length CD.  The record did relatively well on a local basis.  “I’m pretty sure the album would have done much better on a regional and national basis”, stated band leader Adam Burke, “if we had actually hired the right people to market and promote it.  But it was only the first of many more to come and we were happy with the outcome”.  The record release party was a huge success with a turn out of over 800 fans at the Crocodile Rock venue in Allentown, PA.  “That’s still a record for turn-out at that venue for relatively unknown independent artists to my knowledge ” said Burke.   Maddam Ink is currently in the studio pounding out their new album.  The sophomore release aptly titled “A Step in the Right Direction” is being produced by Grammy™ nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (Halestorm /Atlantic Records, SilverTide / Sony/ BMG, and The Roots), and exhibits their best work to date.   Mindful of the need for professional marketing and promotion for this project and second album, and leaving no stone unturned this time around, the band has engaged the independent publicity and marketing firm, Philadelphia based Allure Media Entertainment Group, Inc,. The company will be quarterbacking the initial marketing and publicity initiatives for the release.  The street/drop date for the record is earmarked for May 22, 2010 with national distribution both digitally and in-store being facilitated.  The band will officially release the record at their CD Release party scheduled on that date at the Crocodile Rock Venue in Allentown, PA.  Also on the bill will be the cast from the hit TV Series “Jersey Shore”.  MTV will be filming the event. The venue capacity is well over 1800 and the band foresees no difficulty filling the room.   Maddam Ink’s fan base and market reach continues to explode on a day to day basis. This dynamic band differs from most independent bands in that they definitely do not intend to become the consummate Flash-in-the-Pan.   With insurmountable determination and solid backing they are set to blow up big in 2010 and beyond.  You really need to keep your eyes and ears open for this hard-hitting rock outfit.   For more information on Maddam Ink or to join their mailing list and keep up to date on their performance schedule, or to book them, please visit their websites. www.maddaminkmusic.com www.myspace.com/maddamink     Website Screaming Ferret Wreckords Produced by David Ivory ...........................................        Philadelphia, PA     Slik Helvetika was formed by Mik Myers in 2005, who had put the musical ambition away for a while after narrowly escaping the woes of being signed to a major label throughout the 80's. Mik led a band called Destroyer throughout the East coast U.S. Destroyer released a record distributed by an Indie label "Important" and reached enough success to attract several major labels and NYC showcases. But the trends changed real fast. By the time of Destroyer's maturity.... Metal was out -Grunge was in and labels weren't signing bands like us anymore. Myers then made the decision not to follow a trend he had no passion for and took a musical vacation. "Music was the one thing missing in my life through those years and I needed to make the fire burn again" The 2005 debut self titled disc was very simply Mik recording [with session players] the kind of music he liked & wrote with no cares of what trend was popular. The disc got alot of attention and charted on college. It was apparent other people also missed real rock like this and a permanant band was formed to support the Slik Helvetika vision. The EP KK-5 is comprised of left over songs from the debut CD that had a more aggressive feel and bizarre humored skits. Influences best pointed at are: Milton the toaster, Halford, early Van Halen, R.Rhoads, Zak Wyld, Butch Walker, Sweet and Queen.               New Album Coming Soon   For more information on Slik Helvetika contact Allure Artists     XDao     Media / Press Release Website ............................................................    XDao      Los Angeles, CA   It’s not often with today’s diverse array of independent music that something totally unique, something aberrant, with an actual concept and philosophy behind it comes along; that is, until now.  XDao (Ex-Dao) is a Daoist rock band which originated in China.  The group is lead by the extraordinary writer, guitarist, vocalist, and programmer, Hu Xiao.  The unique modern rock sound of XDao is both powerful and melodic at the same time and combines Chinese Dao Philosophy with musical elements in a transcendental way that is both appealing and enchanting to the Western audience. So what is Dao?  Dao, or Tao in Chinese, means “The Way”.  Daoism, or Taoism, is China’s only native religion/philosophy.  The followers of this religion believe that because they establish themselves as the ultimate truth, the righteous, the only way of life, the only way to salvation, it is Heaven or a better next life. Other religions or schools of thoughts are therefore misguidance or even dangerous heresies.     Yet the first line of Daoist bible -- Dao De Jing, says: “The truth that can be spoken can't be lasting/universal truth” It's like saying: “You can read on, but the Way of life is beyond words.” “What I’m saying is not the truth.” “I couldn't tell you what the ultimate truth is even if there was one.” “Don't take my words for it. You'll find your own Way”   XDao (Ex-Dao), a new identity for this act, is comprised of 2 Chinese musicians and 2 Americans, one guy and three rocking girls.  They are no-doubt probably the only group of its kind in the world.  Although Hu Xiao (guitar, vocals, and programs) is the undisputed leader of this organization, he is joined on stage by Wang Yuchen (keyboards, vocals, and programs), Christy Lichtenstein, on bass, and Leanne Lagoyda on drums; all providing the powerfully driving rhythm section to Hu Xiao’s esoteric vocals and vivacious guitar work.    Hu Xiao and Wang Yuchen were born and raised in different regions of China and came together when they met in the city of Shenzhen, a boom-town style metropolis bordering Hong Kong.  The two came to the United States where they teamed up with Christy and Leanne to form XDao.  The band is now based out of Los Angeles California. This group’s opulent songs are probably one of the most distinctive traits about them.  All of the songwriting is done by Hu Xiao, the band’s leader.  The music and lyrics are mysterious and seem to come from within while his introspective compositions are obviously a reflection of what he observes in the world around him.  When asked his songwriting process he states, “When I begin to write a song, almost always the music comes first.  Sometimes I wait until the music production is around 80% complete before I add lyrics that I believe are fitting for the overall feel.  Other times lyrics come pouring out when I barely have a song structure together. And that can lead the music into a totally different direction.” Hesitant to sight any particular or specific musical influences due to the extreme uniqueness of this act, the bands leader Hu Xiao states “I really can’t pinpoint exactly which bands we sound like.   We’ve been compared to all kinds of groups from Smashing Pumpkins to the Allman Brothers, believe it or not.  A lot of times our sound is a certain flavor because of our limitations.  Yuchen’s keys also heavily affect the overall sound.  She is deep down a very mysterious creature and brings a very unique identity to the sound.”   When you ask Hu Xiao what kind of music he listens to his reply might be, “I listen to whatever music the radio stations play. I switch among rock, pop, jazz, classic stations.”   The band is now in the final stages of completing and releasing their debut EP under the new identity XDao.  The physical version of the EP, titled “XDao Knows No Dao” is scheduled to drop sometime in April of 2010.  The digital version of the release is now available at CDBaby.   Ultimately it is the intention of Hu Xiao and the band to mirror the ancient Chinese philosophy of Daoism in its music, sound, and presentation.  Though it's one of the first philosophies to introduce ideas like "Man should live in tune with Nature", "govern by inaction", "what all consider good becomes bad", the very first thing Daoism did 2 millennia ago is Xing itself out as Truth, Guidance or Wisdom.  It believes in everybody reaching his OWN truth through his own experiences. By not establishing itself, Daoism's existence is in its self-negation. “Identify with me if you will, but don't just follow what I say.” And that's the kind of anti-establishment in which XDao's music exists. By embracing the X factor of the Dao, XDao is still saying things in their music, but does not know anything about anything, including music.  By crossing out the Dao, XDao works hard to materialize where their streams of consciousness take the music, but it’s not the hottest, coolest, or sickest music out there. XDao Knows No Dao! Believing that in order to maintain artistic integrity while gaining increased commercial success, Hu Xiao relates, “The only way to retain artistic integrity while achieving commercial success is to focus on making music that’s appealing to both the harshest critic and the most average listener, like all good art should”.  When the audience leaves an XDao performance, I want them to feel as though they have been taken to a different place”.     Media / Press Release Website Public Relations Allure Media Entertainment . Mix CD Back to the Club    DJ Miguel      San Francisco, CA   D.J. Miguel   aka Mix Master Miguel  –  Biography From his early beginnings D.J. Miguel  aka Mix Master Miguel knew what he wanted and set his sights firmly on getting it.  Paying his dues early on as every entertainer must do, Miguel paid his, “spinning for parties, school’s, events, and friends”.  His established repertoire of venues where he displayed his crafts quickly began to grow.  Slamming down the mixes nationwide, he left no stone un-turned and moved tenaciously forward with his vision and vigorous intention of achieving nothing less but to reach the very top in his chosen profession. “Mainstream Music in all genres has been one of the most important and integral parts of my life, states Miguel.  Demonstrating his insurmountable proficiency for his art for the last twenty years, he has wooed club patrons and audiences with his masterful mixes and stellar performances.  Having an inbred knack for creating an aberrant vibe, Mix Master Miguel knows how to react to the crowd.  He regards his craft as a science, totally submerging himself and his audiences in the music and the mix, which never fails to translate into a rich and extravagantly exciting adventure for all.  Unlike many other DJ’s, Mix Master Miguel employs his craft with raw emotion, not relying on pseudo computer mixes and effects to make his show.  His multifaceted approach and methodology to the DJ profession is genuine and clearly evident in the convivial party atmosphere he creates with his florid performance. With a divergent and sometimes nonpareil aptitude for sensing crowd reaction and musical tastes he reacts quickly and has the uncanny ability to adjust his creative flow and ultimately his show in order to accommodate the groove and the vibe.  A true professional in every sense of the word, Mix Master Miguel never fails to drive the crowds crazy with excitement. In 1998 an interest in achieving some success in commercial radio became one of D.J. Miguel’s multiple quests.  Some notable achievements in this medium included a gig with the Wild 94.9 Dog House Morning Show Mixer.  From 2006 to 2007, he was the mixer for Hot 97.7 Jamz on Sirius Satellite Radio.  In 2008 Miguel, landed back on Sirius radio with a mix show on Friday and Saturday nights called Mix-Master Radio.  Other notable achievements outside of the radio based media is the production and release of two very powerful mainstream CDs; “Music is Music (Club Edition)” and "Music is Music (Back to the Club)". Not only is this DJ a true adroitness at his profession he has also proven to be an authentically compassionate human being as well.  Taking breaks from his career from late 2006 to July of 2009, D.J. Miguel spent a large majority of his time as the sole care giver for his ailing father who was diagnosed with cancer.  His Dad lost his battle with the dreaded disease on July 25, 2009.   States D.J. Miguel: “I looked straight into his eyes as he took his last breath.  I knew inwardly that he was saying Thank You – I Love You”. Currently based in Based in Northern California, D.J. Miguel has made up his mind that 2010 is going to be the year that he breaks through to becoming the consummate celebrity DJ.  He plans to place his focus on clubs, higher profile venues and media related gigs nationwide.  This DJ is at a turning point at this exciting stage in his career and in a word is totally “unstoppable.”  He warrants unconditionally, that he will allow nothing to stand in his way.  “I am setting the bar high for myself, and have no intention of accepting anything less” states Miguel.  The critics and fans nationwide that have followed this young man’s prodigious career over the years have no doubt about it either. Believing in himself, and bequeath of his extraordinary talents to others, is further testimony to the magnificent character of this amazing entertainer.  Believing is only the beginning of his vision to manifest the ultimate success.  It’s all about the knowing, and D.J. Miguel knows within himself as do his followers and his Dad, whose spirit looks down upon him adoringly from above, that nothing can stop him on his sacred quest to the very top of the ladder.  Look for him there in 2010.  You can rest assured – He’ll Be There! For more information  book DJ Miguel you can visit his website: www.mixmastermiguel.com For more information on DJ Miguel contact Allure Artists       Kara Reynolds Singer/Songwriter Media / Press Release Website   New Release Paper Moon    Kara Reynolds     Nashville, TN   About Kara Reynolds -- Born and raised in the great state of Wyoming emerging singer/songwriter Kara Reynolds now calls her home Nashville, Tennessee.  After graduating Magna cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in music from Belmont University, Kara’s love for music and theatre and the belief that you make your own luck by being in the right place at the right time mandated that the famed Music Row in Nashville was the place she needed to be in order to pursue her music career. Although she had always been an active musician throughout her life, it wasn’t until the summer of 2006 that Kara really began to find her voice. This self-discovery took place in a rather unusual setting: a coal mine.  During breaks at her summer job in a coal mine warehouse, Kara began jotting down lyric ideas in a pocket notebook. By the end of the summer, she had written her first song and performed it for fellow coal miners in a warehouse surrounded by 150-ton haul trucks. “I did my fair share of complaining about the job, but it really was where I began writing, and it’s also where I got the money to start recording.” She pauses and then adds, with a smile, “I also know how to operate a bobcat skid-steer loader!” It was during her freshman year at Belmont that Kara started writing seriously and knew instinctively that this was the path she was to take.  Her style is in the pop, alternative, and jazz genres, and her unique approach to songwriting is considered by many to be a blend of vintage – romantic and theatrical in many ways, making her musical compositions well suited for film and theatre as well as the singer/songwriter performance stage.   In her senior year at Belmont University, she began her first official project at Big Dog Studios in Nashville, where she teamed up with some of Nashville’s top studio musicians and producers, some of which have worked with Miley Cyrus, Keith Urban and Jewel.  With the encouragement and musical expertise of these professionals, Kara recorded her brilliant debut full length CD “Paper Moon”, deriving the idea for the album title from  a collection of vintage paper moon photographs she saw on the internet. “I’m so happy with the way this record turned out” states Kara. “I had total creative control, and put my whole heart and soul into it. It really is a part of me, and I just hope people enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it.” Sighting influences as Jeff Buckley. Radiohead, Tori Amos, Beethoven, Joni Mitchell, and the Beach Boys, Kara’s debut CD features crisp acoustic piano lines and well arranged strings which only further enhance her well crafted vocal style. Her inspiration for writing comes from a wide variety of sources. “Wrecking Ball” was written after she and her mother spent an evening watching a marathon of A&E’s hit show Intervention. “Sky Painter” or as Kara describes it, “If Sweet Home Alabama were written about Wyoming and wasn’t remotely as popular”, was penned after a bout of homesickness for her home state’s open landscape. “That’s the best thing about writing. You never know what will inspire you. Sometimes as I’m having an experience I catch myself thinking ‘this would make a good song’” she laughs. With a love for theatre and comedy as well as her polished expertise for songwriting and performing, Kara has also performed in musical theatre and for 3 years while attending Belmont, she participated in “Fall Follies”, one of the most attended and popular comedy variety shows at the University.     Kara’s debut CD “Paper Moon is available at iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby, and other retail outlets.  Keep your eyes and ears wide open and on the look out for this up and coming artist.  A tour in support of her new release is in the making and she’ll be appearing in or around your city soon.   For more information you can visit Kara’s website at:  www.karareynolds.com   Website Tim Laigaie Music Produced by Blue Collar  .Digital Download ..............      Tim Laigaie      Philadelphia, PA     Every journey begins with the first step and Tim Laigaie began walking early as he wrote his first song at age 11. Now ten years later at age 21, Tim has grown into a resounding pro with his lyrical composition and catchy musical lines. Always a leader and not a follower growing up, Tim writes his music following only one rule - "Think outside the box". With the release of his first EP titled "Out of Focus" this past year, he has and continues to capture the attention of listeners around his hometown of Philadelphia. Having already began writing the material for his follow up to "Out of Focus" , Tim assures that he is only growing day by day as a songwriter, performer and lyricist. So keep your ears open and an eye out for Tim Laigaie as he attempts to break the mold and make a splash in the music industry   For more information on Tim Laigaie contact Allure Artists       Web Site  Thoroughfare on MySpace Rockpie Records Produced by Travis Wyrick and David Ivory   New album Now available AS YET UNBORN     Thoroughfare    Knoxville, TN   In 2004 destiny became a musical reality when three very young talented musicians met and just knew they had to make music together.  Jordan Beach (Lead Vox & Guitars), Colin Cunningham (Drums & Back Vox), and Thomas Boyd (Bass) came together to form one of the most unique and dynamic forces in the music world as we know it today.  They combine a clever blend of modern rock, saturated with memorable hooks, harmonious guitar riffs, chest pounding rhythms and irrepressible vocals.  Suitably named Thoroughfare, the band is traveling up the highway, at blinding speed toward major break through success.   Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee the band continues to achieve great strides in their quest for international recognition.  Blessed with great songs, passionate vocals, and an engaging, energy exhuming live show, they continue to perform high profile shows and festivals regionally and recently supported renowned artist Uncle Kracker and other well known artists.  Thoroughfare is making their mark, wooing fans in every city they perform.  The band has recently taken a huge step in the furtherance of their career by signing with national management firm Allure Media Entertainment based in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.   Their debut EP “Portrait of a Daydream” produced by platinum selling producer Travis Wyrick (Pillar, POD) continues to sell wildly and their most recent studio effort a four song EP “Chemical Road” produced by Grammy™ nominated engineer/producer David ivory (Silvertide, Halestorm, The Roots, Patti LaBelle) is currently getting spins on Knoxville radio and is receiving rave reviews.   Thoroughfare has recently completed their debut full length album with platinum selling producer Travis Wyrick (Pillar, POD, Ten Years) the album is set for an independent release on Rockpie Records in late August – early September 2007.   Thoroughfare shows no signs of reducing speed on their highway to success and is poised to break nationwide.  For more information or to sample the sounds of this dynamic emerging force in rock you can visit their websites www.thoroughfareband.com, www.myspace.com/thoroughfare  or contact their management at thoroughfare@allureartists.com       Knoxville's Thoroughfare in the studio with producer David Ivory         Web Site   Stealing Love Jones on MySpace   Sheer Records   Stealing Love Jones      Durban, South Africa They are South Africa’s most promising pop-rock act since forever, and with sales climbing fast, a ubiquitous radio presence and a lead singer possessed of a cracking voice, good looks and the business savvy of a CEO, Love Jones are poised to become enormous. It’s time to meet the Joneses.   “We want to build an empire,” says Esjay Jones, aka ‘Miss Jones’, Love Jones’ 23-year-old lead singer. “It’s a lot of hard work. I have absolutely no life aside from Love Jones. And the honest truth is that Love Jones is my love. Everything goes into it.”   She’s not a bit arrogant, but one wouldn’t describe Love Jones’ lead singer as modest. Esjay has mentioned in interviews before that she sees Love Jones selling as many albums as The Foo Fighters and Britney Spears in five years time. She doesn’t know it, but before we met I had seen her walk into the editorial office of one of the country’s top youth magazines to suggest that she appear on the cover of the next issue. She walked out with a feature guaranteed and a handful of new fans. The nonchalance with which she delivers such lofty quotes is disarming; after a few seconds waiting for a wry chuckle that never comes, you begin to see that she means every word.   Love Jones can rest in the knowledge that their lead singer has already proven her saleability in the most competitive market on the planet. Shortly before starting Love Jones, Esjay was offered a record deal in the USA as a solo artist, but had to turn it down after her visa was denied. “For the past six years, I’ve been preparing, saving every cent,” she says. “We don’t want to be another plod along South African band that never gets anywhere because we can’t make anything happen ourselves. The truth of the matter is that it takes money to make money.” Esjay still has her sights set on America. The Joneses will travel across the pond twice in 2007, first to LA at the end of March, where they will support Sarah Bettens (former lead-singer of K's Choice) at the world-famous Viper Room. They will return Stateside for a full tour from mid-May to mid-August.   Esjay has always known she would be a musician, but even she has had her wobbles. She briefly considered throwing in the towel after hearing that she had lost the US deal, but a conversation with Peter Jones at a Squeal gig in Durban changed her mind. The pair founded Love Jones in January 2005 and performed their first show to rapturous approval at Kwazulu-Natal’s Splashy Fen Festival months later. Not interested in waiting to be signed, Esjay and Peter started their own record label, WE LOVE JONES FORESHORE! Records, with Esjay taking on the role of Label Manager. She visited radio stations herself and charmed them into slipping a single or two onto their playlist. By the time Love Jones was signed by Sheer in early 2006, they already had a single in the charts and a complete, professionally recorded album on shelves. Sheer then re-released the album and, suddenly, Love Jones was everywhere.   The first single "Kicks" peaked at No. 2 on the ‘High 5 at 5’ on 5Fm and quickly barged its way into the Top 10 on Highveld Stereo’s HomeBru chart, Tuks Fm and Radio Puk SA, where it went to No.1. A coveted place among the internationally overrun Highveld ‘Hot 30’ was the icing on the cake. The music video for "Kicks" is also on the highest rotation on MK89, the country’s most popular local music channel. As the single climbed the charts, Love Jones toured the country tirelessly, playing one week to rock lovers at a dingy bar in Potchefstroom and the next in front of thousands at Oppikoppi, Aardklop and the Levi’s Rage for the Revolution concert, alongside the country’s top acts. When they drove from one venue to the next and “Kicks’ came on the radio, Esjay would lean out of the window and scream “We’re on the radio!” at passers by. For Esjay, one sniff at success was enough. She was hooked.                                                                                                                        “It’s been amazing to see radio stations get behind us,” says Esjay. “Success is a package deal. We know that we need the radio in order to get where we’re going. If they don’t get alongside us we’re fucked.” With her band mates listening like devoted employees, she dominates the conversation, using words like “marketability” and terms like “package deal”. She talks of how many “units” the album might sell. Throughout the interview it’s obvious that Miss Jones is as much the sexy lead singer as she is the shrewd and formidable businesswoman.   Esjay’s attitude is shared by her band mates. It’s refreshing that Love Jones are under no illusions as to how their success might come about. Instead of gathering in a smelly garage smoking weed and bitching about the industry, Esjay and the original members financed the first album themselves, having asked for – and bizarrely been awarded – a substantial bank loan. It wasn’t as easy as walking into a bank in knackered converse and tights and asking for a lump of cash, but it was close. These days, they’re setting their sights decidedly higher. “We are the first band that could compete on the international market,” says Esjay. “We need a million rand. Someone needs to give us that.” That someone is likely to do more than okay from the investment.   There have been three changes to the line-up in less than two years. Antony Jones was replaced by former Perez drummer Mike Goddard (now Mike Jones, naturally), whose brief stint ended at the beginning of 2007. Isaac Jones, who earned his stripes with the fleeting but acclaimed Jozi band Airship Orange, is the latest substitution. Isaac, 24, describes his fellow Joneses as “no bullshit, simple, organised people”. He says he was stunned when he discovered that “Kicks”, Love Jones’ first hit single, belonged to a local band. “When first heard the band on radio I though this is definitely an international band…I was very impressed.” Needless to say, Isaac needed little convincing. The most significant change to the line-up has been the departure of co-founder Peter Jones, who left in November 2006. He made way for Jason Jones, 26, whose inclusion Esjay insists has been one of the highlights of the band’s short career. “Every time we needed to make a change your heart stops and you think ‘That’s it’, but every time it’s been better,” says Esjay. Bassist Steve, who behind Esjay is the longest serving Jones, nods vigorously at this observation.   Here’s something you’ve heard seventeen thousand times: This band has its own sound. But nothing comes from nothing, and Love Jones’ first album is not without roots. Growing up, Esjay was subjected to “really Christian, happy-clappy stuff, like Cliff Richard and Michael W Smith” but when she was on her own she preferred the classic rock of the Rolling Stones, Aerosmith and the The Foo Fighters. “But I also love Britney Spears – pop, commercial radio stuff. The last album I bought was Roxette’s greatest hits. We’ve been busting that in the car lately.” Bass guitarist Steve was raised on a diet of Kool and the Gang, Yellow Jacket, George Benson and Billy Cassidy, which perhaps rebelliously steered him towards the off-beat indie of Gomez, The Shins and Islands.   Early on, Love Jones were described as a band that “combined the power of the Foo Fighters with the pop sensibility of Britney Spears”. This was apparently too complicated for most local reviewers and Esjay was furious to read reviews complaining that the music was nothing like Britney’s. “It wasn’t like we said ‘I sound exactly like Dave Grohl and look exactly like Britney Spears’”, says Esjay. South African reviewers have kept trying. SA Music tabloid did a better job than most: “The sound of celebrity, scandal, glamour and sophistication…Esjay’s voice burns leftfield rock hardness into their ingeniously arranged, super stadium-rock ballads.” But sooner or later you will have more than enough opportunities to decide for yourself; Love Jones have almost as many potential hit singles on their album as they do tracks. To discover what makes Love Jones different, it helps to ask the band members themselves. So, what makes Love Lones love Love Jones?   Steve: I’m not sure really. There’s a chemistry between us. It just works. Esjay: We’re likeable. And quirky. Isaac: We’re international standard.   Love Jones is so hot right now, and soon they will be inescapable. But they’re also just getting warmed up. They have an empire to build, remember.     Web Site   Gallucio on MySpace Debut Album "ALL FOR YOU" Cornerless  Records    Produced by David Ivory ...........................................   Gallucio      Wilmington, DE Unlike many artists, Anthony Gallucio aka Gallucio didn’t have an epiphany about wanting to perform live.  He started with something he loved—playing guitar--and took some sound advice from a trusted source.        “The performing wasn’t a factor; I just loved to play,” Gallucio says, adding, “performing came into play from my father’s advice to find something I love and find a way to make a living doing it.”        His passion for guitar is hard to miss; Gallucio is known as a singer, songwriter and guitar virtuoso.  Audiences are left dazzled by his rapid-fire agility and effortless delivery of innovative techniques, and his repertoire includes his originals, spanning many musical genres.      In 2001, Gallucio was honored with the Philadelphia Music Award for “Guitar Player of the Decade”.        He’s known for wearing his heart on his sleeve when he performs, applying a natural flair and style that leaves audiences breathless.  His smile and affability draw audiences night after night, and Gallucio says he gives everything he has to his audience, regardless of the size of the venue.  “I want people to feel inspired when they leave my show,” he says. “I like to make people happy!”      Gallucio describes his music as being a “tug-of-war” between three of his loves: blues, funk and traditional rock-n-roll.  His music is a fusion of old school sound with modern flavors.        Gallucio recently completed his debut album “All for You” produced by Grammy™ nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (Erykah Badu, The Roots, Silvertide, Halestorm, Kindred, Patti LaBelle, Bo Didley) and has recently signed with International Artist Management and Publicity firm ALLURE Media Entertainment Group based in Philadelphia, New York, and Los Angeles.  Additionally, Silvertide's guitarist, Nick Perry, superstar Bunny Sigler, and legendary reggae guitarist Earl “Chinna” Smith (Bob Marley & The Whalers, Josh Stone) made guest appearances on the new album.        When the hard-working musician allows himself time to imagine his dream gig, he envisions two venues.  “The Grand ‘Ol Opry, because only the best of the best get to play there, would be a true honor,” he says, “and the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, because I grew up seeing concerts at the Spectrum and that would like I’d really made it.”        His preferred method to structure music begins with the melody, and the origin of his music is experiential, based both on what he feels inside and what he observes around him.        What sets Gallucio apart from many artists is a realistic view of his position in the music industry and what he has to do to keep playing to larger and larger audiences.  Ask him about achieving commercial success and retaining his artistic integrity, and his reply is “I’ll let you know when I get there.”       Perhaps what reveals most about this rising talent is his perspective on the biggest challenge he faces as an indie artist:  “Staying true to what I believe without bending to what everyone is telling me to do.  I need to keep my music the way I feel it should be without letting it be changed by everyone.  I want it to be commercially marketable, but it still needs to be mine.”   For more information on Gallucio and his music contact:   Allure Media Entertainment Group  Email:  Gallucio@allureartists.com      Web:  http://www.allureartists.com Gallucio Official Web Site:  http://www.gallucio.com Visit Gallucio on MySpace:  http://www.myspace.com/gallucio   Get Gallucio’s Electronic Press Kit:  http://www.sonicbids.com/gallucio     Web Site   Wonder Years on MySpace   The Wonder Years    Philadelphia, PA Remember the movie "Twins?" Youve seen it; trust me. It was when Arnold Schwarzenegger decided he could do comedies. It had Danny DeVito! Come on! Okay, well anyway, the basic gist of it is that there is this science experiment where they take sperm from the worlds best athletes and scholars and compile them all into some sort of super-sperm. Then, they use it to get this girl pregnant. The ensuing child is played by Arnold and is a compellation of all his fathers. Well, it happened again-- except this time, the fathers are HelloGoodbye, Set Your Goals, Motion City Soundtrack, Saves the Day and New Found Glory and they all got Zolof the Rock and Roll Destroyer pregnant. The result is The Wonder Years. We play music that we can have fun with and write songs about the issues that matter most (like Ninjas and shit). As for the defect baby, played in the movie by DeVito; thats where Bellwether came from. NEW ALBUM Listen & Buy Web Site  Greg Howe on MySpace  Tone Center Records Shrapnell Records Self Produced ............................................       Greg Howe   Los Angeles, CA Greg Howe started playing the guitar at the age of 10 and by his middle teens, after discovering Van Halen, became obsessed with guitar while transforming his confident playing of pentatonic scales on the guitar into a broader understanding of music. By his late teens he had already began playing in clubs with his rock band, which featured his brother Al on lead vocals. Over the course of the next few years Greg continued to hone his guitar skills while playing in rock bands. In 1988 Shrapnel Records owner and infamous guitar connoisseur Mike Varney asked Howe to record an album for his label after hearing a demo that Greg had sent him with the hopes of being featured in Varney's Spotlight column for Guitar Player magazine. That album, simply entitled "Greg Howe", featured David Lee Roth bassist Billy Sheehan and drummer Atma Anur. It instantly caught the attention of the whole guitar community and eventually led to numerous endorsement deals, print advertising and countrywide clinics. After recording two vocal albums with his brother (1990's "High Gear" and 1991's "Now Hear This"), the guitarist's second solo album(1993's "Introspection") set the tone for what would eventually become a series of eight fresh forays in to the mosaic of jazz, rock, fusion, funk, and blues. With each subsequent album - 1994's "Uncertain Terms", 1995's "Parallax", 1996's "Five", 1998's "Ascend", and 2000's "Hypercuity" Howe would make bolder and more satisfying strides into fusion music. Along the way he would make himself available as a sideman for pop superstars, filling in for guitarist Jennifer Batten in 1996 on Michael Jackson's History tour through Europe and Asia, touring the U.S. and Europe in 2000 with Enrique Inglesias, making two separate tours of the states in 2001 and 2002 with NSYNC and doing a promotional tour in 2003 with Justin Timberlake. In fact, Howe ultimately ended up leaving the Timberlake tour in 2003 in order to complete work on "Extraction", the already critically acclaimed all-star funk fusion extravaganza, featuring electric bass virtuoso Victor Wooten ( of the flecktones ) and the world class drummer Dennis Chambers (Formerly with Parliament/Funkadelics, John Scofield, the Brecker Bros, and Currently with Santana. Greg's busy schedule continues with various projects. Currently, he is in production for a series of online video lessons and is very active with guitar clinics, trade shows, and mini tours around the world.   Web Site  SPG Records Produced by Greg Howe  ............................................   Uncle Plum   New York, NY Although Uncle Plum has been around a short while, it has quickly become one of the top drawing rock bands in Western New York. With a combination of high energy alternative rock covers and "why isn't that on the radio?" originals, it's just a matter of time before larger markets get a hold of them. The origins of the band can be traced to 1996 when UP lead singer Elvio Fernandes would come see Mike Gladstone's acoustic trio, Cosco, Gladstone and Cosco, appear at local clubs. During the band's breaks the "mutual musician admiration society (MMAS)" would take over....ya know, "You're great", "No, YOU'RE great", "NO YOU'RE GREAT", etc, etc...Of course the conversation inevitably ended up at "let's form a band!!". They proceeded to rent out a rehearsal studio and enlist the talents of a bass player and future Plum drummer Joe Lana. After a few rehearsals, they decided to throw in the towel due to the fact the the chemistry just wasn't right...yet Years went by and Elvio and Joe went on tour to the Far East with a show band and Mike formed the Smokin' HoHo's(!?) with former Cheater frontman, Jeff Cosco. After a year, Elvio returned home and rejoined his old band, East Coast Connection. Joe would end up staying in Guam to play with the show band for another year (hey, the money was good!). One day in the late summer of 1999, Mike received a call from an obviously excited Elvio stating that Joe was coming back to Rochester and that the time was right to put together THE alternative rock band. With the bass player position left to fill, Mike thought about it for a millisecond and got on the phone with Paul Akers, former bass player for EMI recording artists, Hard Rain. Paul agreed and Uncle Plum was born. Finally, soundman Sebastian Marino (former guitarist for metal band Overkill) came aboard...his sound system keeps getting bigger and bigger and bigger... Rehearsals started in September '99 and the band played it's first show in November...the rest is history in the making. Oh...one more thing – in case you were wondering, the name Uncle Plum came from Mike, who's mother-in-law actually had an Uncle Plum!! It just felt right. You can catch the band all over the Rochester, NY area - and soon in Buffalo, Syracuse and Toronto.   Web Site  Myspace Coda Baby Records Produced by David Ivory and Darryl Ray ............................................     Darryl Ray Band    Philadelphia, PA     Who is Darryl Ray? He’s is that hip, mysteriously cool fellow in the club, whose talent, good looks and charm are exceeded only by his love for his craft. A connoisseur of all things related to music. He could teach music himself, if he had the patience, Especially, the history of music, any genre. Rock, R&B, Blues, Jazz and Hip-Hop. They have all influenced his original sound. Throughout a career that has spanned more then 25 years, Darryl Ray has left his distinctive mark on all that have come in contact with him.Raised in Philadelphia, PA, Darryl Ray was born into a music loving family. His great aunt and mother both played piano. At the tender age of 5, he began taking violin lessons at Settlement Music in Philadelphia, were it was discovered that he had perfect pitch. In his teens he began playing several instruments in church including the piano, organ, guitar and bass. After high school he began his love affair with the saxophone. Arriving in Combs College of Music, he learned music theory and majored in Saxophone. He had discovered his niche.Upon leaving Combs, Darryl Ray cut his teeth as a pro sax player on the Philly rock scene, playing in several of the areas most popular bands such as Dynagroove, Zydeco A GoGo, Tommy Conwell and many others. After years of touring, he started his own band, The Blues Outlawz and moved out front to become a front man and bandleader. Finally taking all of his experience and personal taste to create The Darryl Ray Band. Darryl Ray’s new CD. to be released first quarter 2006 titled "Rollin". The talented singer, songwriter and saxophonist has combined rock, soul, hip-hop, blues and jazz and infused all these different styles to come up with his stunningly original music.    From the full gritty tone of his saxophone to his soulful, gut wrenching vocals, he takes the listeners on a wonderful journey that encompass the joys and pains, comedy and drama of his life. The real deal, Darryl Ray.   When Darryl is not playing or writing music you may find him in his kayak on the river, at a car show (he loves Cadillacs), riding his Harley or having fun with his favorite girl, CODA, his new baby. But Hey, Keep your eyes and hears open, because Darryl Ray is coming your way!     Web Site  Currently Unsigned Produced by David Ivory ............................................ Flux is now in the studio with David Ivory   Flux Capacitor   Reading, PA It’s hard to believe that four talented “twenty-something” musicians in today’s music scene can conjure up a sound that’s reminiscent of the psychedelic rock movement of the 60’s.  A combination of rock, alternative, psychedelic, and a touch of grunge, Flux Capacitor has abandoned all the rules and decided to push the envelope.  Their music exhibits subtle hints of “Cream”, U2, and Nirvana, bundled up into their own unique blend of genres unlike any other act in today’s Rock N Roll scene.  Their upbeat tunes are intelligently crafted around lyrical tones of love, disdain, sarcasm, hope, future, demise and the unknown.  They take their music very personally and it shows in their dynamic live performance.  Suitably named “FLUX”, a synonym for the word exciting, this band will push you over the edge and could quite possibly change the way you view music today.   Hailing from South Eastern Pennsylvania, Flux Capacitor consists of Pete Specht at lead vocal and guitar, Jason Specht on keyboard, synth, percussion, and back vocal, Matt McCarty on drums, keyboard, and back vocal, and Sean Moran on bass and back vocal. Together, they perform an exciting blend of powerful, upbeat, and epic ballads creating energy and wonderment.  Their music evokes passion in their fans, wooing crowds where ever they perform.   The band has taken the recording aspect of their career one huge step further.  Engaging Grammy™ nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (Silvertide,  “J” Records, Lizzie Hale and Halestorm, Atlantic Records) to produce and track their new album.  They are currently in the studio.  “It’s simply awesome how David brings out the raw ideas in our heads and casts them into tangible reality with his development and arrangement expertise” stated guitarist/vocalist Pete Specht. The long awaited debut album from Flux Capacitor is earmarked to hit the streets sometime this summer.   The band has truly come into its own catapulting their career from performing gigs at underground bars and clubs in Pennsylvania, to headlining shows in New York and Philadelphia.  They are poised to break through in the very near future.  Keep your eyes and ears alert for this band.  They are hell bent on making music in the twenty-first century that won’t be soon forgotten.   For more information on Flux Capacitor contact  Allure Media Entertainment at info@allureartists.com   Web Site  Currently Unsigned Produced by David Ivory View Promo Video ............................................   Coolooloosh   Jerusalem, Israel In 2003, I  In 2003, five extremely In 2003, five extrtaltalented musicians from Jerusalem, Israel, and around the world, found each other and came together to form one of the most unique and dynamic forces in the music world as we know it today.  Suitability named “Coolooloosh”, a Jerusalemite word for celebration and joy; this is precisely what the band exhumes with each and every exciting performance. Wooing fans around the world with their intelligent blend of genres, Coolooloosh combining Hip Hop, Rap, Jazz, and Funk, is one of Israel’s most popular groups, and is one of the very few well known emerging acts that can pull it off.  Consistently, pushing the envelope, the band is destined to break internationally.   A diverse group of individuals, from varied musical  backgrounds the band consists of Yuval Gerstein (Guitar and Vocal), Rebel Sun (MC), Ori Winokur (Bass and vocal), Arik Levy  (Saxophones),Sefi Zisling (Trumpet) and Yogev Shitrit  on Drums.  Combining both English and Hebrew text into their songs and unique blend of genres only further enhances their distinctive style.   Following an extremely zealous show at the renown Sodra Theatre in Stockholm Sweden in May of this year, Coolooloosh forged on in August and September to continue an extremely successful and productive tour of Europe performing in the UK, Germany, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, and Hungary, including the well known “Spancirfest” festival in Croatia, gaining major attention and vast amounts of new fans at every show.  In December the band’s plans include returning to Sodra in Stockholm, then on to Denmark and Finland.   Coolooloosh and its members are dead serious in their quest to create awareness for their project.  Recently at the invitation of Grammy® nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (The Roots, Patti Labelle, Erykah Badu) the band will travel to the US in January of 2008 to begin pre-production and the tracking of their new full length album with Ivory at the helm.  “These guys are really something special and unique.  When my associate brought them to my attention, it was a no-brainer that I had to work with them” stated Ivory.   In conjunction with recording the exciting new album, Coolooloosh will tour the US, including a show at the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington DC on January 22nd.  The band is also in the process of setting up a May 2008 tour in the US for Israel’s 60th Independence Day celebrations.   Look for this emerging artist to take the world by storm and break wide open onto the scene and quickly become a powerhouse in the international music community.   In 2003,     Web Site  Currently Unsigned Produced by David Ivory Viiew studio session with the Philadelphia Strings ............................................   Tom Taylor .... Singer-Songwriter   Wilmington, DE No kin to “James” but one listen to this artist is reminiscent to the great acoustic artists of the past and present.  Singer-songwriter Tom Taylor has proven to be a tenacious self-starter exhibiting highly melodic compositions and emotionally intelligent lyrics. His songs and signature voice can’t be mistaken and both overwhelm and stir the human emotion and soul.   Taylor began playing guitar at age 13 when he heard a friend playing an AC/DC song on the guitar.  “I thought it was the coolest thing and that was all she wrote” stated Taylor. Since that time he continues to embrace the arts with his love for music and songwriting.  Inspired by artists such as Jack Johnson, Dave Mathews, Cat Stevens, and The Beatles T.T. is a self taught accomplished songwriter and musician whose writing inspiration comes from past experiences both positive and negative.   Hailing from Wilmington, Delaware, Tom Taylor has recently completed his debut album recorded and produced by Grammy® nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (Patti Labelle, Silvertide) The album features contributions by Wilmington’s Gallucio and Rob Cavazzini, Earl “Chinna” Smith (Original Bob Marley & The Whaler’s Guitarist) and The Philadelphia Orchestra among other accomplished artists.   It’s earmarked for release in early summer of 2008.   For more information on this emerging artist contact his management, Allure Media Entertainment at  tomtaylorsongs@yahoo.com.   Web Site  MySpace Currently Unsigned Produced by David Ivory   NEW EP Now Available From BDS Music, LLC ............................................ View Brian Severn & Those Victorious Video   Brian Severn & Those Victorious   Frederick, MD Hailing from Frederick, Maryland Brian Severn & Those Victorious are quickly proving to be tenacious self starters.  Writing and performing highly melodic compositions with emotionally intelligent lyrics and big catchy hooks, it’s evident that their inspiration comes from within.  The band which began as a solo acoustic project featuring Brian Severn has grown into a solid song-oriented powerhouse.  Brian began playing guitar at age 10 and began writing and performing by age 12.  After watching Greenday’s Woodstock Performance on television he knew instinctively what he had to do.    The band features Brian Severn on guitar and lead vocal, with Paddy McMayonnaise on drums/percussion,  Brian "Briany Tiny Hands" Tessier on guitar/back vocal, and Chris "Playboy" Martin on bass.  Inspired by artists such as Green Day, Everclear, GlassJaw, and Tom Petty, the band has recently completed their second EP produced by Grammy™ nominated engineer/producer David Ivory (The Roots, Halestorm, Silvertide, Patti LaBelle).  The EP titled “Wonderboy” is earmarked for release in June of 2007.   Brian Severn & Those Victorious are dead serious in their quest to create awareness for their project.  Continuing to seek guidance from David Ivory and engaging Artist Management and Music Marketing firm Allure Media Entertainment, Philadelphia, PA to assist in the furtherance of their career, the band seems destined for Independent Success.   Upon the release of their new EP, the band will hit the road in July of 2007 to tour in support of the record.  To stay informed on the bands scheduled shows or for more information on Brian Severn & Those Victorious, visit their web site at http://www.myspace.com/briansevernandthosevictorious        Pre-Production with Grammy Nominated David Ivory Other Artists: Jon Delise Dakota Jay     Pitching "Next Time"      The Making of "Next Time" Video   Home    Contact     Submit Demo  Careers at Allure       ©2010 AllureArtists.com   All Rights Reserved Artist Management, P/R & Consulting A division of Allure Media Entertainment Group, Inc.